Browsing by Author "Negash, Legesse (Professor)"
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Item The Benefits of Acacia abyssinica (Hochst.) ex. Benth. (Fabaceae) in the Restoration of the Threatened Juniperus procera (Hochst.) ex. Endl. (Cupressaceae)(Addis Ababa University, 2012-06) Kagnew, Birhanu; Negash, Legesse (Professor)The study was conducted in the “Center for Indigenous Trees Propagation and Biodiversity development in Ethiopia”. This thesis presents analysis of the contribution of Acacia abyssinica for the restoration of the threatened Juniperus procera. The general purpose of the study was to examine the role of A. abyssinica in the restoration of the threatened J. procera on degraded and bare landscape. To achieve this objective, different size sampling plots were used for both tree and soil data collections, along the systematically laid transect lines. Accordingly, a total of 24 sampling plots were constructed, inside each sample plot, the growth parameters, viz. tree height, d.b.h, crown length, crown diameter, branch numbers, branch length and status of soil physicochemical properties in the two sub-sites was recorded and examined. The growth potential of the studied tree was analyzed. The findings of the study revealed that the mean growth difference of J. procera in the two sub-sites was significant (p < 0.05) and its growth potential in all parameters was considerably higher in A. abyssinica influenced sub-site than the control sub-site. The results showed that the presence of A. abyssinica were paramount important for the restoration of the endangered J. procera. The soil analysis result revealed that there is significant mean difference (p < 0.05) for soil organic carbon, total nitrogen and soil textures in the two soil depths and across the two sub-sites. Total nitrogen, organic carbon, EC, available phosphorus and CEC except soil pH were decreased with increasing soil depths which is an indication of surface soil fertility restoration. Soil fertility was different across the two sub-sites. This might be due to either the presence or absence of nitrogen fixing as well as necromass production of A. abyssinica. The significance of the study was to provide a basis for further restoration studies that contributes towards restoration, protection, regeneration and conservation of useful endangered tree in particular and biodiversity in general. Keywords: Restoration, nitrogen fixation, growth performance, J. procera, Soil fertility.Item Coffee Shade trees Current Status Phenology Management Practices and Threats in Kochere Woreda Gedeo Zone SNNPR Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2021-09-07) Agmas, Ahmed; Negash, Legesse (Professor)This study was conducted in Kochere woreda,Gedeo Zone,SNNPR, Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to identify the most common and important shade tree species,current status, phenology and threats and to document farmer’s perspectives on the environmental and socio economic benefits of the shade trees on coffee production systems. The data were collected through structured and semi structured interview,questionnaire,and field observations. Data were analyzed using preference ranking following (Martin,1995),direct matrix ranking following (Cotton,1996) and appropriate percentage were used. Wherever descriptive statistics were also computed so as to summarize the essence of the data. Six most common coffee shade tree species were selected in the study area. Farmers preferred these shade tree species in their coffee plantation due to their shade providing and soil fertility improvement and also based on their multipurpose values. Coffees under shade increase the yield and size of coffee beans however under sun growing,cup quality and coffee bean size decrease. Agroforestry practice was takes place deliberately the production of woody and non woody crops in the same field of land. Removing of weed,inter cropping,protecting natural regeneration plants,looping of side branches as well as pollarding and debarking were constitute the major management practices. People highly exploited in the natural environment as the source of their lively hoods,it promote negative effects on plant distribution. Regarding to threats of coffee shade tree informants clearly put their worries about the future prospective of these shade trees under the existing dynamics .This research identifies that the rapid population growth in the study area as a potential threat to the sustainability of coffee shade tree.Item Effects of Chemical Fertilizers and Compost on Growth and Yield of Guizotia Abyssinica (L. F.) Cass. in Potted Vertisol at Bichena Town, West-Central Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2018-09-09) Edemealem, Addisu; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Guizotia abyssinica L. f. Cass (synonym Polymnia abyssinica L. f.) belongs to Asteraceae (Compositeae). The species is said to have originated in the Ethiopian highlands and has spread to other parts of the world. In Ethiopia, niger seed is cultivated primarily for valuable edible oil for local consumption. Elsewhere, the crop is used in pharmaceutical products and other industrial applications, and as a green manure for increasing soil organic matter. In reality neither farmers nor extension institutions give focus on using improved practices such as optimum fertilizer applications for niger seed production. The present study was undertaken to find out the effects of chemical fertilizers and compost on growth and yield of G. abyssinica in potted vertisols at Bichena town, West central Ethiopia. A total of 150 plastic bags (depth 20 cm, diameter 10 cm) were filled with 1 kg vertisol, among which 50 bags contained only vertisol, 50 bags contained soils mixed with DAP and urea and the rest 50 contained soils mixed with compost. The study found out that application of DAP and urea at rates of 50 and 30 kg ha respectively improved the vegetative growth by 195 % compared to the control. Similarly, yield increased by 294 . On the other hand, niger plants grown in soils mixed with compost at rates of 12 tons ha improved the vegetative growth by 66% and yield increased by 82 . Though, the analysis of variance showed that there was no significant difference (p < 0.05) among the three treatments for all the germination parameters measured, vertisol mixed with chemical fertilizers (VR + CF) showed the best germination percentage, mean germination time and germination vigor compared to seeds germinated in vertisol mixed with compost (VR + Comp) or in vertisol only. Maximum mean plant height (cm), internodal length (cm), branches/plant, leaf number, leaf area (mm2), RCD (cm), number of capitulae/plant, number of seeds, seeds weight (g), 1000 seeds weight (g) and total dry weight (g) were 73.8, 39.6, 18, 50, 136, 1.8, 19, 355, 0.9, 2.3, and 5.5 respectively for plants grown in VR + CF. The corresponding values for plants grown in VR + Comp were 41.5, 11.9, 7, 26, 43.2, 1.3, 8, 164, 0.5, 2.2, and 1.9 respectively. The control plants resulted in 25, 5.3, 3, 19, 26.2, 1.2, 4, 90, 0.3, 1.8, and 1.2 respectively. Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that application of optimum amount of chemical fertilizers significantly (p < 0.01) improved almost all the growth and yield components of Guizotia abyssinica.Item The Effects of Compost Application on Growth and Yield Performances of White Lupin (Lupinus Albus L.)(Addis Ababa University, 2021-08-04) Melese, Agegnehu; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Lupinus is a diverse genus in the legume family (Fabaceae).Its common name used in Europe and Australia lupin for both native and domesticated species, while the common name for native Lupinus in North America is lupine.Taxonomically,lupins are classified within the order fabales,family Fabaceae,trible Geniseae and genus lupinus and the number of species in this genus is expected to be over 1000.However ,the commonly agreed number of the existing lupin species is around 280. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of compost on growth and yield of L. albus in pot experiment. A total of 100 plastic bags (depth 20cm, diameter 10 cm) were filled using, 50 bags contained 1kg of vertisol, and 50 contained soils mixed with compost. The study found out that vertisol mixed with compost at rates of 120 quintal ha improved the vegetative growth of L.albus by 51% and yield increased by68 . In contrast, no significant difference in seed germination (p < 0.05) was observed between the two treatments for all the germination parameters measured. In particular, differences in mean germination time and germination vigor were not significant between seeds germinated in vertisol mixed with compost (VR+Comp) or in vertisol only. Maximum mean plant height (cm), internodes length (cm), branches/plant, leaf number, leaf area (mm2), root collar diameter (RCD) (cm), number of capitulae/plant, number of seeds, 1000 seeds weight (gm) and total dry weight (gm) were41.5, 11.9, 7, 26, 43.2, 1.3, 8, 164, 0.5, 2.2, and 1.9, respectively, for plants grown in VR+comp.The corresponding measurements for the control plants were25, 5.3, 3.0, 19.2, 26.2, 1.2, 4, 90, 0.3, 1.8, and 1.2, respectively. Based on the results obtained it is concluded that application of compost significantly (p< 0.01) improved almost all the growth and yield components of L. albus.Item Effects of Striga Hermonthica(Del.) Benth on Early Growth Performances and Yield of Yellow Sorghum [Sorghum Bicolor (L.) Moench] in Potted Arenosols with or Without Compost at Mertulemariam Town(Addis Ababa University, 2019-08-08) Agazhu, Worku; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Sorghum bicolor (L.)Moench, commonly known as yellow sorghum, belongs to the grass family of East African origin, which has spread to other parts of the world due to its drought resistance and heat tolerance traits. It is the most common staple cereal crop for poor farmers, but is adversely affected by Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth weed that causes complete loss of most yellow sorghum land races. The weed causes considerable reduction of early growth and yield performances of yellow sorghum grown in semi-arid non- fertile areas of East Gojjam, Amhara Regional State. The present study was aimed at assessing the impact of Striga weed on growth development and yield of yellow sorghum grown in potted soils with or without compost. A total of 90 plastic bags (depth 28 cm, diameter 18 cm) were filled with 1 kg arenosols, of which 30 bags contained only Striga infected arenosols (SIS), 30 bags contained Striga infected arenosols mixed with comp (SIS+Comp) and the remaining 30 contained non-Striga infected arenosols mixed with comp(NSIS+ Comp).The present study found out that measurements on (NSIS+ Comp) treatment gave value of mean plant height (cm), internodal length (cm),leaf number, leaf area (mm2),and root collar diameter (cm) of 129.8, 19.5, 14, 354.6, and 3.5, respectively. Similarly, number of seeds per plant, seeds weight (g), thousand seeds weight (g) and total dry weight (g) were, 3,820,131.6, 43.2 and 57, respectively. The corresponding values for plants grown in SIS + Compost were 127, 18, 13,327.6, 3.3, 3,624, 129, 41.5, and 53.5, respectively. control plants grown in SIS only resulted in87.3, 13.5, 8, 262.9, 2.3, 1,950, 76.3, 25.8, and30.1, respectively. Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that application of compost significantly (p ≤ 0.05) improved almost all the early growth performances and yield components of S.bicolor.Item Germination Physiology, Germinant Establishment and Growth Performance Studies of Ficus sycomorus L. (Moraceae).(Addis Ababa University, 2011-07) Kebede, Wondye; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Ficus sycomorus L. (Moraceae) is a tree indigenous to Ethiopia which possesses useful agro-forestry, medicinal, ecological and fodder importance. The tree is found scattered in many parts of the country mainly as a result of widespread deforestation and also lack of knowledge in the propagation techniques of the species. The current study focuses on germination physiology, germinant establishment and growth performances of tree’s seedlings in the glasshouse. Figs of the tree were collected and dried for a week for various studies on the species. Germination of seeds in the laboratory was tested by using plant-derived aqueous smoke extracts, GA3 and KNO3 solutions at various concentrations. Double distilled water was used as a control. Germinant establishment and growth performances of young seedlings at various soil mixtures were examined. The results of seed count on the sample figs yielded between 168 to 465 seeds per fruit. The majority of seeds (73.5%) were found damaged by wasps and the balance (26.5%) were found to be sound and thus used for germination studies of the species. In the laboratory experiments a relative concentration of 100% plant-derived aqueous smoke extracts, 10-6M GA3 and 10-3M KNO3 yielded maximum germination of 92, 83 and 88%, respectively. The results of seed germination studies under laboratory conditions revealed significant differences (p<0.05). Among the various treatments administered germination studies conducted in polyethylene plastic pots under glasshouse conditions resulted in mean percentage germination of 57%. Extent of germinant establishment was studied using soil mixes of 4:3:2, 2:1:1, 4:1:3, 4:3:1, 1:1:1 and 1:1:0 of red soil, compost and sand, respectively. The study found 100% survival of seedlings in all the treatments and the control. Growth performance of seedlings tested in the above soil mixtures revealed that the 4:3:2 soil mixture resulted in significant (p<0.01) difference in growth compared to all the other treatments and the control. The overall results showed that F. sycomorus can efficiently be propagated through seeds in a wide range of soil types. Key words/phrases: Ficus sycomorus, fig, propagation, smoke extracts, seedling establishment.Item Germination Physiology, Seedling Survival and Growth Performances of Dodonaea Viscosa Jacq Subsp. Angustifolia (L.F) Benth:(Addis Ababa University, 2018-09-09) Alebachew, Kassahun; Negash, Legesse (Professor)The present study was undertaken to address two major challenges in Dodonaea viscosa Jacq subsp. angustifolia (L.f) Benth, namely to break seed coat dormancy and to assess the potential of early survival and growth performances of seedlings in soils sampled from degraded landscapes. D. viscosa subsp. angustifolia is an ecologically and medicinally very significant indigenous shrub or small tree, which belongs to the family Sapindaceae. It is a multi-seeder, evergreen, drought resistance, fast growing and pioneer plant that can grow in poor soils. However, to use the plant in restoration programs its complete, rapid and uniform germination is limited by species’ seed coat dormancy. The present study attempted to break seed dormancy through mechanical scarification, treatment with 98% sulphuric acid for 1, 3, 5, 10, 20 and 30 minutes, also hot water treatments at 70, 80, 90 and 95C for 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40 minutes for each of the specified temperatures employed with a view to breaking seed dormancy of the species. Non-scarified seeds were used as a control. To determine the extent of early seedling survival and growth performances, a total of 120 seedlings of D. viscosa subsp. angustifolia were grown in soils sampled from degraded landscapes. The experiment was conducted under nursery bed conditions, and the results were compared with those obtained from plants grown in soils mixed with 50% compost. The study found that all scarification treatments improved mean germination percentage and rate. Mechanical scarification and acid treatments for 10, 20, and 30 minutes significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05) mean germination percentage over the control. Seeds treated in hot water at 70C for 40 minutes, at 80 C for 30 and 40 minutes, at 90C for 20 and 30 minutes, and at 95C for 10 and 20 minutes, significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05) mean germination percentage as compared to the control. Except for mean root dry weight, other observed growth parameters were significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) for seedlings grown in media mixed with compost. From these results, it is concluded that mechanical scarification, hot water and sulphuric acid treatments are all suitable pretreatments for maximizing germination percentage and germination rate in D. viscosa subsp. angustifolia. The shrub’s potential to survive and grow in soils sampled from degraded landscapes indicates that this important plant can be used for the restoration of degraded landscapes.Item Germination Studies and Nursery Establishment of the Threatened Hagenia Abyssinica (Bruce) J.F.Gmel Through Use of Various Germination Stimulants(Addis Ababa University, 2009-01) Dawit, Teshome; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Studies on the germination physiology of Hagenia abyssinica (Bruce) J.F.Gmel were conducted using various levels of germination stimulators or inhibitors. Nursery establishment and growth performance of the resulting germinants were examined using different mixtures of growth media. Seeds were treated using various dilutions of plant-derived aqueous smoke extracts (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50%), different concentrations of GA3 and KNO3 (10-3, 10-4, 10-5, 10-6 and 10-7 M) and double distilled water (control). The seeds were germinated under laboratory conditions at 40 μ mol m-2 s-1, and at 220 C. Also, leaf aqueous extracts of Eucalyptus globulus ssp globulus at 10, 20, 40, 80 and 100% relative concentrations were applied to determine their effects on H. abyssinica seed germination under laboratory conditions. Smoke extract at 40 %, GA3 at 10-4 M and KNO3 at 10-5 Key words/phrases: Allelopathy, Germination, H. abyssinica, Seed, Seedling survival. M showed higher germination percentage (86, 79.6 and 89.6%, respectively) compared to the control (72%); and the difference was significant at P ≤ 0.05. Increasing relative concentrations of leaf aqueous extracts of E. globulus ssp globulus inhibited seed germination and complete failure of seed germination was recorded at 80 and 100% relative concentrations. Growth media containing red soil, decomposed cow dung and sand in the ratio 4:3:2 (SoDSa1), 4:3:1 (SoDSa2), 4:1:3 (SoDSa3) and 2:1:1 (SoDSa4) (19.1 ± 1.35, 20.58 ± 0.62, 19.21 ± 1.5 and 21.9 ± 1.01 cm, respectively) resulted in significantly (P ≤ 0.05) better growth in height, compared to the control (red soil only) (16.24 ± 0.59). Dry weights of the seedlings grown in the potting treatments SoDSa1, SoDSa3, and SoDSa4 (4.63, 4.30 and 5.53 g) were significantly larger than the control (0.70 g). The MDW (mean dry weight) of the seedlings grown in SoDSa4 was larger compared to the control. From these investigations, it is concluded that pre-treating seeds of H. abyssinica with aqueous smoke extract and KNO3 provided better stimulatory effect for attaining maximum germination percentage. The results also indicate that the seedlings of H. abyssinica grew faster and reached planting size within 5 months in a soil mixtures containing red soil, decomposed cow dung and sand in the ratios 2:1:1 and 4:3:2. Key words/phrases: Allelopathy, Germination, H. abyssinica, Seed, Seedling survival.Item Growth Performance of Three Indigenous and one Endemic Tree Species of Ethiopia on A Degraded Site in Central-West Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2007-03) Tafesse, Misrak; Negash, Legesse (Professor)comparative studies on growth performance of three indigenous and one endemic tree species of Ethiopia, viz. Cordia africana Lam., Croton macrostachyus (Hochst Ex Del.), Podocarpus falcatus (Thunb.) Mirb. and Millettia ferruginea (Hochst.) Baker were conducted over a period of 8 months. The study was carried out within the landholdings of the Center for Indigenous Trees Propagation and Biodiversity Development at Tulu-Korma, about 48 km west of Addis Ababa. Tree seedlings of 88 C. africana, 348 C. macrostachyus, 256 P. falcatus and 303 M. ferruginea were planted on an area of 7,682 square meters five months before the start of this study. Each seedling was assigned a random numerical code for further follow-up studies. Watering, mulching, adding manure, and prevention measures from herbivore damage and weeding were handled by workers of the Center. Data on height and survival percentage were collected every 45 days (in 6- rounds, including data collected at time 0). Root collar diameter measurements of each coded tree were taken along with the last height measurements. Analyses of variance and Tukey’s HSD tests were employed to assess the results at p=0.05. Data taken on young trees height were also used for plotting the relative growth rate for height measurements following previously adopted procedures. The analyses showed significant differences in growth changes of the tree species studied. Overall relative growth rate in height (RGRH) of M. ferruginea was found to be the highest, attaining a value of 0.0045. C. macrostachyus and C. africana stood second and third, with RGRH values of 0.0036 and 0.0035, respectively. There was no significant difference between the relative growth rates of C. africana and C. macrostachyus. P. falcatus had the lowest relative growth rate value of, 0.0028. Of the four indigenous tree species, M. ferruginea attained the maximum overall change in mean height of 35.3 cm. Its root collar diameter value ranked second (1.44 cm) next to C. africana (2.23 cm). The survival percentage was very high in all the four species, ranging between 98.86 and 100 %. Comparison of the major soil properties of the study site indicated that the area is well below the average values, with total nitrogen of 0.1% compared to the standard average value of 0.2-0.5%; organic carbon of 1.2%, compared to the standard average value of 4-10%; and available phosphorus of 2.3 ppm, compared to the standard average value of 14-19 ppm. The only soil parameter that fell within the normal range was pH (6.0). This work concludes that, despite the poor nutrient status of the site, growth performance and survival percentage of the four indigenous tree species were reasonably good, indicating the potential of indigenous trees to grow on degraded sites provided that intensive management, along with provision of water during the hot, dry season are maintained. Key words: Tulu-Korma, survival percentage, root collar diameter, growth performance, degraded siteItem Impact of Small-Scale Irrigation on the Livelihood of Rural farm Households in: Enderta Wereda, Tigray Regional State(Addis Ababa University, 2019-09-09) Mehari, Kahsu; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Irrigation has become among the key agricultural practices. The present study examines on the role of small-scale irrigation by specifically investigating the factors that determine the adoption of small-scale irrigation, the impact on income as well as challenges in small-scale irrigation sector in Enderta Wereda, Tigray Regional State of Ethiopia. Data were collected by applying household surveys, questionnaires as well as field observation methods. A sample of 93 irrigation user and non-irrigation user households was randomly selected through lottery sampling methods from 5 villages of the study Wereda. The data were analyzed by Probit regression to identify the factors that determine the adoption of small-scale irrigation and Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to estimate the impact of using small-scale irrigation on income as a livelihood indicator. The findings of the present study revealed that there were significance differences between groups of irrigation users compared to non-irrigation users Use of small-scale irrigation was significantly (P< 0.05) influenced by land size, access to credit, household education and total household income. The present study found that age, of the household head, educational level, marital status, as well as access to credit of the household head were positively correlated, while land and family sizes were found to be negatively correlated with the adoption of small-scale irrigation. Households who used irrigation earned about 64,226 Birr higher per year with standard deviation ± 49,250 than those who failed to use irrigation. Most farmers (94%) intend to continue using small-scale irrigation, but, they face several challenges. The most important challenges include is the price of farm inputs (21.6%),water management and lack of technology for water use (13.5%), access to credit (8.1%) as well as access to markets(5.4%)Item The Importance of Opuntia Ficus-Indica (L.) Mill. Fruits for Supporting the Livelihoods of Communities in Ganta Afeshum Wereda, Eastern Zone, Tigray Administrative Region(Addis Ababa University, 2018-08-08) Kidanemariam, Haileslassie; Negash, Legesse (Professor)The fruit of Opuntia ficus-indica plays a vital role as a source of income and food security, in regions where annual rainfall is low and erratic, and the landscape is degraded. The main objective of the study was to assess the importance of the fruit and the nopalitos of Opuntia ficus-indica on the livelihood of communities in Tabia May Mesanu and Gola Genahti. These tabias were found in Eastern Zone of Tigray and consists of 99,290 farmers. The population numbers of the two Tabias were 1,090 (for Gola Genahti) and 1,211 (for May Messanu).The total targeted persons were 2,301 farmers and 5 agricultural office workers from which 187 household leaders and agricultural office workers were randomly selected. Questionnaires were prepared and distributed for the selected household leaders and interviews were conducted for the agricultural office workers. The resulting data were calculated in percentages and analyzed using SPSS software version 16. The present study revealed that, fruit of Opuntia ficus-indica has been used as a source of income in both Tabia May Messanu and Gola Genahti, with a 22% increase in fruit sales during the last three years. Of the total of 187 the majority of the respondents (95.2%) affirmed that the plant’s fruit is used as supplementary diet for humans, while the balance (4.8%) said that they use the fruit as their regular food, especially during times of food scarcity. In contrast, a large percentage of the respondents (85.0%) said that they use the plant as regular animal feed. Interestingly, many of the farmers (95.2%) use both the fruit peel and the nopalitos for feeding their animals. Based on the present study, I conclude that Opuntia ficus-indica has diverse financial and environmental uses, including use as food, forage, fuel wood, cash income, as well as the species’ importance for live fencing and biological soil conservation.Item Influence of Propagation Medium on the Growth and Development of Seedlings of Avocado (Persea Americana Mill.), Papaya (Carica papaya L.) and Guava (Psidiu11l Guajava L.).(Addis Ababa University, 2016) HaHu, Beira; Negash, Legesse (Professor)The experiment was conducted to evaluate the influence of different mixes of growth media on the growth and development of avocado, papaya and guava seedlings. It was undertaken in the nursery site of the Center for Indigenous Trees Propagation and Biodiversity Development. The study focused on addition of cattle manure and sand to topsoil. Six media mixes were prepared. The ratio of these media mixes, as treatment was determined on volume bases using flowerpot. Thus, treatments were: topsoil (Tl); topsoil, cattle manure & sand, 3:1:1(T2); topsoil, cattle manure & sand, 2: 1 :1(T3); topsoil, cattle manure & sand, 1:1: 1 (T4); topsoil & sand, 1 :I(TS); and topsoil and cattle manure, 1: 1 (T6) and studied in a complete randomized design with three replications separately for avocado (Persea americana), papaya (Carica papaya) and guava (Psidium guajava). The data on total shoot height and numbers of fully expanded leaves per plant were collected starting from 7 weeks after germination up to IS weeks of growth in the nursery at two weeks interval. Sample leaves were collected at the termination of the former two parameters for the determination of leaf fi'esh and dry biomass. The data taken at the termination of the measurement was used for analyses. The different media mixes did not significantly influence on any parameter of avocado; while leaf number and leaf dry weight of papaya; and the leaf fresh weight of guava seedlings were significantly influenced (pItem Medicinal Plants Used by the Ayehu Woreda Communities Awi Zone Amhara Regional State Ethiopia Threats and Conservation Methods(Addis Ababa University, 2021-09-21) Menberu, Yohannes; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Ethiopia has a long history of employing traditional medicinal plants to treat a wide range of human and Livestock illnesses. The present study on medicinal plants was conducted to document local, plant-based medicinal knowledge of communities, conservation methods and the threats affecting these medicinal plants in Ayehu- Guagusa Woreda, Amhara Regional State Eastern Ethiopia. A total of 54 informants (aged between 20-80) were selected so as to provide information on medicinal plant use from 8 sampled kebeles. Of these, 6 male key informants were selected purposively based on recommendations obtained from elders and also younger members of the communities. Other informants (28 males and 20 females) were selected randomly by lottery method. Semi structured interviews, field observations, group discussions, and a guided field walk were used to collect data. Preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and the informant consensus factor were utilized to analyze the data .Also, fidelity level calculations were run so as to assess the importance of a given medicinal plant for the intended Purpose. A total of 50 different medicinal plant species collected and identified.42 species (84%) were used to treat human illnesses, 5 species (10%) were used to cure livestock illnesses, and the remaining 3 species (6% ) were used to treat both human and livestock diseases. From the total medicinal plant species, 16 ((34.04%), most of them 0f 6 (34.04%), were herbs, and least of them 2 ((29.79%were species of climbers. The most commonly used plant parts were 35 (33.98%) leaves followed by 30(29.13%) roots. The most commonly used method of preparation was crushing (50 %), squeezing (13.75%), and chewing (12.5%) of the different plant parts. Oral administration 60.6 % followed by dermal administration was the popular route of administration reported (22.7 %).most of the medicinal plants (46%) have been harvested from the wild, the effort of local people to conserve medicinal plants is limited. To relieve the rapid loss of medicinal plants, associated indigenous knowledge, we recommend that urgent measures be taken by the concerned government institutions. Strategic approach should include systematic awareness creation through schools, local institutions as well as through accepted leaders of the communities. Awareness creation should be supported by concrete conservation and development activities by way of technical support for selecting, domesticating, propagating and cultivating threatened medicinal plants.Item Propagation and Management Practices of Coffee (Coffea Arabica L.) at the Coffee Nursery Site of Lalo Kebele, Didu Wereda, Ilu-Aba-Bora Zone, Oromia Regional State.(Addis Ababa University, 2018-09-09) Tekle, Bedilu; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Coffee is the major agricultural export crop, providing currently 35% of Ethiopia‟s foreign exchange earnings, down from 65% a decade ago because of the slump in coffee prices since the mid-1990„s. this research work was conducted by identifying and providing the necessary information about the propagation and management practices of coffee on nursery site of Lalo Kebele, Didu Wereda, Ilu-Aba-Bora Zone, Oromia Regional State. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, discussions with the farmers and/or development agents, and field observations. The study found that a combination of forest soil, top soil and compost promoted growth of coffee seedlings. According to the present study, sound fertilization of seedling provides the following advantages: (1) Production of healthy coffee seedlings and subsequently productive coffee plants; (2) Uniform growth; (3) Fast growth of seedlings; and, (4) High post-planting survival rate. Application of commercial fertilizer to seedlings enhanced the growth of these, especially the application of DAP. Sowing coffee seeds at a depth of 1 cm with the grooved side placed downwards and embryo tip upwards improved seed germination. Covering the seed bed with 3-5 cm mulch enhanced higher germination. Transplanting germinants to a freshly prepared nursery bed, followed by watering at two days interval, helped speed up hypocotyls emergence and subsequent seedling development. Further, providing moderate overhead shade and watering to the developing seedlings twice a week until these produced up to four leaves were found to be mandatory for a high quality seedling production. Keeping nursery hygiene and controlling seedling disease are also major activities at Lalo coffee nursery. Sowing mature, freshly collected and clean coffee seeds after soaking these in cold water for 24 hours hastened germination. It was observed that hardening is generally done by reducing the amount of watering about one month before the date of planting.Item Seed Germination Physiology and Nursery Establishment of Croton macrostachyus Hocht. Ex Del.(Addis Ababa University, 2007-07) Wakjira, Kebebew; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Germination studies were conducted on seeds of Croton macrostachyus Hochst. ex Del. with a view to analyzing effects of different seed pre-treatment procedures. Seed pretreatments were achieved using various concentrations of gibberelic acid (GA3), potassium nitrate (KNO3), various dilutions of plant-derived aqueous smoke extracts, and distilled water (control) under illuminated (using fluorescent lamp = ca 40 μmol m-2 s-1) and non-illuminated ( buried in sand) conditions. Studies on the germination responses of seeds sown in pots, provenance differences, impact of seed storage time, as well as nursery establishment requirements for the seedlings were also conducted. Experiments were conducted in Addis Ababa under laboratory, glasshouse, and nursery conditions. The study found that percentage germination, mean germination time, and germination vigor were best when seeds were pre-treated with aqueous smoke extracts and were significantly different (P<0.001) from those pre-treated with either GA3 or KNO3. Of all the pre-treatments employed, seeds under non-illuminated conditions resulted in significantly higher (P<0.001) final germination percentage and vigor value than those allowed to germinate under the light conditions. Final germination percentage and germination rate were significantly (P<0.001) higher for seeds germinated in the glasshouse compared to those germinated outside the glasshouse. Seed provenances from east Wollega, Ilubabor, and Jimma were similar in terms of final germination percentage, mean germination time, and germination vigor, while these were significantly (P<0.01) different from west Arsi (Shashamane) and west Shoa (Bako) provenances. Germination percentage and vigor decreased with increasing storage time for all storage temperatures. Also, mean germination time for seeds stored at room temperature (22° C) significantly (P<0.01) increased compared to those stored at 15 and 5° C Growth media containing red soil, decomposed cow dung and sand in ratios of 4:3:1, 4:1:3, 4:3:2, 2:1:1, and 1:1:1, respectively resulted in significantly (P< 0.05) better height growth compared to the mixture containing red soil and decomposed cow dung in equal proportions. From these investigations, it is concluded that pre-treating seeds of C. macrostachyus with aqueous smoke extract is the best option for attaining maximum germination indexes. The results also indicate that the species is easy to propagate by seed, seedlings grow fast and reach planting stage within 5-6 months if a soil mixture containing red soil, decomposed cow dung, and sand in equal proportions is used for the nursery establishment under suitable growing conditions. But germination conditions of the species vary from region to region and seeds are short-lived if stored under room temperature.Item Studies on Propagation Biology of Four and Phenology of one Medicinal Plants(Addis Ababa University, 2009-01) Abera, Balcha; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Studies on the phenology of Plumbago zeylanica L.(Plumbaginaceae), and propagation biology of other four highly threatened medicinal plants, namely Echinops kebericho Mesfin (Astraceae), Glinus lotoides L. (Mol luginaceae) Securidaca longepedunculata Fres. (Polygalaceae) and Taverniera abyssinica L. (Leguminosae) were conducted with a view to conserving and developing these threatened medicinal plants. The objectives of this research were (1) to study the reproductive biology of P. zeylanica; and (2) to develop (i) seed-based propagation methods of E. kebericho, G. lotoides and S. longepedunculata, (ii) vegetative propagation by stem cuttings of G. lotoides, and (iii) in vitro regeneration of T. abyssinica. Mature seeds were used as the starting plant material for all the studied species. Different parameters affecting seed germination and seedling establishment were studied for E. kebericho, G. lotoides and S. longepedunculata. Seedlings were only used for T. abyssinica and G. lotoides in tissue culture and vegetative propagation techniques, respectively. Studies on the phenology of P. zeylanica were conducted under glasshouse and nursery conditions using several parameters such as plant size, seasonal climate, and hormone application and mating system. A tissue culture protocol was tested from several explants, on two basic media and with hormone treatments for T. abyssinica. Seeds of E. kebericho sterilized for 9 and 5 minutes in 70% ethanol and in 10% sodium hypochlorite, respectively, g erminated best (95.2 ± 1.2%) on Murashige and Skoog medium, supplemented with 10 g l_1 phytoagar. Further incre ases or decreases in sterilization time decreased percentage germination and increased contamination, respectively. Untreated seeds (control) were completely contaminated before the emergence of radicle as a result of fungi growth. Seed germination percentage declined with increasing storage time and dropped from 95 ± 0.4 % to 32.2 ± 1.2% in 15 months. Twenty-five degrees centigrade was an optimal temperature for best germination (94.6 ± 2.4%) of seeds compared to others. Seeds sown in pots containing a mixture of sand, nursery soil, and animal manure in a ratio of 0.5:2.5:0.5 respectively, germinated significantly (p< 0.05) compared to other soil ratios. Increases in sand or animal manure ratios decreased germination, while increases in nursery soil increased percentage and rate of germination. High percentage (96± 0.5%) germination was obtained with the seeds sown on nursery soil–surface mixed additives compared with the control. Seeds stored for less than 5 months, and at 25 oC, were the most suitable for in vitro and ex vitro germination of E. kebericho. Seedlings of nursery bed origin survived best compared to those in vitro or pot origin seedlings. Seeds of G. lotoides treated with water at 70o C for 10 to 30 minutes or GA3 (10-3 and 10-4 M) did not show significant (p<0.05) difference in germination compared with the control. Seeds sown in pots containing a mixture of nursery soil, cattle dung, and sand in a ratio of 2:1:0.5, respectively, germinated best (91.6%) compared to other soil ratios, which showed rapid reduction in germination percentage with increases in cattle dung or sand. Seeds stored for 2 months gave best germination (93.7%) compared to ones stored for 5, 8 and 11 months, which showed decreases with increasing storage time. Apical stem cuttings gave the highest rooting percentages (90.2%), root number (8.02) and root length (6.18 cm) with or without hormone treatment than basal stem cuttings. In general, the number and length of roots decreased with applied indolebutyric acid (IBA) concentration. The highest rooting percentage (98.2%) was obtained in a rooting medium consisting of sand, nursery soil, and cattle dung, in equal proportions followed by 1.5:1:0.5 ratios of the same constituents. The percentage of survived rooted cuttings decreased with increasing age of stockplants from which the cuttings were derived. Rooted cuttings obtained without IBA treatment survived significantly (P<0.05). The study found that G. lotoides can effectively be propagated by both sexual and asexual means provided that germination media of specific are employed, and the apical cuttings derived from young seedlings are used for maximal rooting responses. Seeds of P. zeylanica germinated best and vigorously grown (on a mixture of nursery soil and cattle dung in a ratio of 3:1 filled in pots (glasshouse) or on nursery bed-surface mixed cattle dung) as a prerequisite for vegetative and flowering phenological studies. Hypogeal germination characterizes the emergence of seedlings. Subsequent vegetative and flowering phenology between glasshouse and nursery seedlings showed significant difference (p<0.05) in terms of time, duration and yield. Glasshouse seedlings completed their phenophases (aseasonally) within 105 days while nursery seedlings extended to 225 days after seed sowing. Rainy season was the cause for the continuous damage of apical shoots, and consequently stunted vegetative growth of nursery seedlings. Plant size (≥ 95 cm in height), leaves number (33-38) and seasonal climate (wet season) were found to be the most signals for the initiation of flowering buds. Hundred ppm GA3 was the most effective for early flowering (i.e., before 6 days) and production of higher number of flowers (32.6 ± 1.6%) compared to the control (22.5 ± 1.33%). The mode of reproductive biology appeared to be cross pollination and showed significance (p<0.05) compared to the control. The highest flowering (92.40 ± 0.52%) and/or seed-set (85.23 ± 3.55%) were obtained under glasshouse condition compared to the nursery, which dropped as low as 50% in seed-set due to the damage of apical shoots during rainy and cold seasons, and differences of the adaptation of the species under both conditions. In vitro and ex vitro seed germination, extent of seedling survival and establishment has been developed for S. longepedunculata. Seeds treated with gibberellic acid (10-3 M GA3) germinated best (>94.6+1.32%) on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 8 g 1-1 phytoagar or on the sterilized sand filled in a glass culture vessel. Seedlings germinated on MS survived best (81.6 ± 1.34%) and formed strong stems, multi-roots and many branchlets compared to the sand origin seedlings, which showed a high mortality rate upon transfer to glasshouse conditions due to hypocotyl elongation and a poorly developed root system. Seeds sown in pots containing a mixture of sand, nursery soil, animal manure in a ratio of (2:0.5:0.5, respectively) gave highest germination (94.6 ± 2.14%) compared to other ratios of soil mixture. Percentage germination decreased with decreases and increases of sand and nursery soil ratios, respectively. Only a poor germination (>50%) was obtained with seeds sown on the seedbed. Seeds stored at 25 oC germinated best compared to others and the seed viability was declined with storage time. The best in vitro germination ((96 + 0.6%) of T. abyssinica seeds and vigorous seedlings growth as a prerequisite for the development of tissue culture methods was obtained on Murashige and Skoog medium, supplemented with 12 g 1-1 phytoagar without sucrose. Light green compact calli from node, petiole and shoot meristem explants were efficiently induced on Gamborg medium containing 0.90 or 1.80 μM dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) combined with 2.22 μM 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), and supplemented with 30 g 1-1 sucrose and 5 g 1-1 phytagel. Callus induction and plant regeneration has been established for dingetegna, Taverniera abyssinica. Light green compact calli from node, petiole and shoot meristem explants were efficiently induced on Gamborg medium containing 0.90 or 1.80 μM dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) combined with 2.22 μM 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), and supplemented with 30 g 1-1 sucrose and 5 g 1-1 phytagel. Callus initiation from shoot meristems and nodes was faster and occurred with a higher frequency than callus initiation from petiole and leaf segments. A high frequency (100%) of shoot regeneration was obtained upon transfer of calli onto regeneration medium containing 8.88 μM BAP combined with 1.14 μM indoleacetic acid (IAA). Regenerated shoots were transferred to rooting medium, which turned out to be optimal when half strength B5 medium was supplemented with 9.84 μM indolebutyric acid (IBA).Upon transfer to glasshouse, 86% survived and grew vigorously. The main results indicate that both in vitro and ex vitro seed-based can be used for the propagation of E. kebericho, S. longepedunculata and G. lotoides although in vitro seed culture of G. lotoides showed less germination even in the absence of contamination. G. lotoides was successfully propagated by stem cuttings without hormone treatments. Rainy season, plant size, leaves number, low temperature, cross pollination and glasshouse conditions were found to be the most determining factors for the phenology of P. zeylanica. Light green compact calli, high frequency of shoot regeneration and regenerated roots of T. abyssinica were successfully obtained and acclimatized upon transfer to glasshouse conditions. However, further studies on the development of tissue culture, genetic analysis and the ecological requirements are the next steps for the effective use of the propagation protocols developed by this study. Key words: Ethnobotany Ethiopia, medicinal plants, seed germination, in vitro regeneration, reproductive biology, vegetative propagationItem Studies on Seed Germination Physiology, Germinant Establishment and Seedling Growth Performance of Ficus Sur Forssk. (Moraceae)(Addis Ababa University, 2010-07) Getahun, Solomon; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Ficus sur is a fig tree that belongs to the genus Ficus family Moraceae and order Rosales. It grows at altitudinal ranges 1400-2500 m.a.s.l. Seed production, germination physiology, germinant establishment and seedling growth performance studies were conducted in Addis Ababa University, College of Life Sciences. Seed pretreatments were achieved using 100 μM, 10 μM, 1μM and 0.1μM concentrations of gibberellic acid (GA3) and potassium nitrate (KNO3) separately. Plant-derived aqueous smoke extract solutions at relative concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% were also used to pretreat seeds and stimulate germination. The control was to treat seeds with double distilled water. Petri dishes were randomly arranged under a light source from one Phillips fluorescent tube set at a height of 50 cm and producing light at a rate of ca. 40 μmol m-2 s-1. Temperature and relative humidity of the room were 26.55 ± 2.650 C and 44.15 ± 6.25%, respectively. Stereomicroscope examination of seeds was indicated 57.3% of the seeds were damaged and the balance 42.7 % was health. Significant (P<0.05) mean germination percentages were achieved from seeds pretreated with 10 μM GA3, 0.1 μM KNO3 and 75% aqueous smoke extract solutions. Faster germination initiation, maximum mean germination rate and minimum mean germination time were obtained at 0.1 μM GA3 and 75 % smoke solutions. Germination of seeds sown in pots, germinant establishment and growth performance of seedling were also studied in the glasshouse, where average temperature and relative humidity were 23.55 ± 80 C and 72 ± 17 %, respectively. Growth media containing soil mixtures of 4:3:1, 4:3:2, 4:1:3, 2:1:1 and 1:1:1 of red soil, compost and sand, respectively, were used. The growth of seedlings, leaf production and leaf area were significantly (P<0.003) better on the 4:3:1soil mixture compared to the control i.e growth medium containing 1:1:1 ratio of red soil, compost, and sand mixture. From these results, it is possible to conclude that GA3, KNO3 and plant-derived aqueous smoke extract are suitable pretreatments for attaining maximum germination indexes compared to the control. The results indicate that the species is easy to propagate by seed, seedlings grow quite fast and reach planting size ≈ 50 cm within 5 months. Keywords/phrases: Aqueous smoke, Germination, Gibberellic acid, Potassium nitrate, Seedling, soil mixtures and Treatment.Item Studies on the Attitudes of Communities Towards Native Trees Propagation in Meta Robi Wereda, West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State(Addis Ababa University, 2018-09-09) Bekele, Damtew; Negash, Legesse (Professor)It is evident that we are living in a world whose natural balance is greatly affected by human activities .The present study was undertaken to examine the prevailing attitudes of communities towards native trees propagation. The research was conducted in Meta Robi Wereda, West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State. This research work was conducted to fill the research gap by identifying and providing the necessary information about the attitudes of communities towards native trees propagation practices. Primary data were obtained through the application of structured questionnaire, as well as through conducting discussions with key informants and focus groups. Secondary data were obtained from published papers in scientific journals, books, project reports, unpublished materials and maps. A total of 120 sample respondents were identified using simple random sampling technique from three Kebeles, namely, Falé, Katkato Jijiga and Haro Walkete. Data were coded and entered into SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences), and were analyzed accordingly. The study found that populations of native trees are generally on the decline. The major reasons for the decline were charcoal production, use for firewood, and extremely high demand for furniture production. The majority of communities involved in the present study had positive attitudes towards propagation of native trees, provided that propagation materials and skills in propagation techniques are available. However, these attitudes were influenced by gender, educational level, farming size and occupational status. It was observed that low level of scientific awareness about the values of native trees for the development of keystone natural resources such as soils, water, and biodiversity constituted a major factor for the demise of native trees. Also, absence of native trees seedlings in local nurseries, as well as dearth of information on the propagation techniques of these presented formidable challenges to their cultivation. We recommend that the Government, as well as the local councils formulate clear strategies on the propagation and cultivation of native trees, which we consider are critical for the development of keystone natural resources and, consequently, food, water and energy security.Item Study on Wild and Semi-Wild Edible Plants Inwukro Kilte-Awulaelo Eastern Zone of Tigray Adminstrative Region, Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2019-09-09) Habtu, Mezgebe; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Wild and semi-wild edible plant species (WSWEPs) are important resources in combating food insecurity. The present study was conducted to identify and document WSWEPs and to assess their role in food security in Kilte-Awulaelo Wereda, Eastern Zone of Tigray. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, group discussions, guided field observations and local market surveys. A total of 66 respondents were selected by means of simple random and purposive methods. A total of 30 WSWEPs were identified and documented. Of these 3, 2, 2, 2 and 16 species belonged to Ficus, Cyperus, Ziziphus, Rumex, and others, respectively. These species were distributed in 22 different families, including Polygonaceae, Rhamnaceae, Rosaceae, Cyperaceae, Moraceae and others. Cordia africana Lam., Opuntia ficus-indica L., Ziziphus spina-christi L., were found to be highly popular species cited by the respondents. WSWEPs are consumed in the mode of non-cooked, cooked, and dried. The present study found that WSWEPs in the study area were threatened by anthropogenic factors including agricultural expansions, overgrazing, selective harvesting and construction. WSWEPs are mainly harvested in spring and summer seasons, and the most frequent gatherers and consumers are children, entire households, youngsters and poor members of the communities. The frequently consumed parts of WSWEPs were found to be fruits (66% of the total WSWEPs), while the remaining edibility is attributed to various plant parts, including flowers, leaves and stems. WSWEPs of the studied area were composed of trees (53.3%), shrubs (33.3%) and herbs (13%). Main sources of knowledge for the studied WSWEPs were reported to be grandparents (34.9%), parents (27.3%), self-taught individuals (19.7%), churches and schools (18.7%). The study found that WSWEPs are mainly conserved in home gardens as live fences, in farm land peripheries, as well as in protected areas such as churches. We recommend that, along with sustainable utilization and conservation of the existing germplasm, of Cordia africana, Opuntia ficusindica and Ziziphus spina-christi require urgent selection, domestication, propagation and cultivation.Item Use and Conservation Status of Native Treesand Shrubs in and Around Gondar City Amhara Regional State Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2021-09-16) Tassew, Enyish; Negash, Legesse (Professor)Native trees and shrubs serve a wide range of uses within conventional farming system. The objective of this paper was to documne t uses and onsuservation status of native trees and shrubs in and around the city of Gondar. To this end, 136 respondents from two rural kebele and one urban kifle ketema randomly. For selection of the most preferred native tree species and shrubs 12 key informants were purposively selected based on their wisdom about trees and shrubs. Questionnaire containing together open-ended and structured questions were employed to collect data on use (or abuse) of selected native trees and shrubs. The data, collcted from 136 informants, were reviewed using the techniques of free-listing, preference ranking and direct matrix ranking. Verifying the preference ranking findings, direct matrix ranking also showed that Juniperus procera is the most exceedingly preferred tree based on multiple attributes. Key informants ranked it the first for its use in fencing and construction and a source of cash income. Accacia Abyssinica was also ranked as the highest of all as a source of fuel. Ricinus Communis was ranked higher than all other trees based on its growth performance. The most preferred native tree species (e.g. Olea europaea ssp.cappspodata and Juniperus procera) have become increasingly rare, as described in interviews. The ,pst highly listed uses was fencing and the lostes were beeforage and spiritual. Households have initiated planting a few native species. Immediate organized measures are crucial to avoid the rapid replacement of native woody plant diversity by a monoculture of non-native trees. A community-based platform for unified ecological renewal of native plant variety would necessitate assistance from local government organizations and non-governmental organizations.