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Journal of the Bangladesh Agricultural University

Volume 3                                             Number 1                                          June, 2005

 Contents

Abstracts

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 1–6, 2005                                                       ISSN 1810-3030

Effects of planting date and bulb size on the yield and economics of onion grown from sets

M.F. Mondal, H.K. Sarker and M.B. Mia

Department of Horticulture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

An experiment was conducted to study the effects of planting date and bulb size on the yield and economics of onion production from sets at the Horticulture Farm of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during the period from August 2002 to March 2003. There were six planting dates, viz. September 3, September 12, October 8, October 21, October 30 and November 7 and three bulb sizes viz. large, medium and small. The planting dates had significant effect on all the yield components and yield of onion. The October 21 planting gave the highest yield of bulbs (19.78 t/ha) and November 7 planting the lowest (12.7 t/ha). Bulb size also showed significant influence on the yield of bulb. Maximum (19.74 t/ha) and minimum (15.41 t/ha) yields were obtained from large and small bulbs, respectively. Both the interaction and the combined effects were significant. The highest bulb yield (24.67 t/ha) was recorded from the combination of October 21 planting and small bulb. The highest gross income (Tk 197336/ha) was obtained from this treatment combination, but the net return as well as the benefit cost ratio (2.02) was the highest in the treatment of September 12 planting × small bulb.

Keywords: Onion, Date of planting, Growth, Yield and Economics

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 7–12, 2005                                                     ISSN 1810-3030

Effects of planting date and GA₃ on growth, yield and quality of onion seeds grown from sets

A.K.M.M. Islam and M.F. Mondal

Department of Horticulture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh

An experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Farm, Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh during the period from October, 2002 to April, 2003 to study the effects of planting date and concentration of GA₃ on the growth, yield and quality of onion seeds. There were two planting dates viz., 30 October and 20 November and five concentrations of GA₃ viz., 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 ppm. The two-factor experiment was laid out in the split plot design with three replications. The planting date and concentration of GA₃ showed significant influence on the growth of plant and yield of onion seed. The highest yield of 392.27 kg/ha was obtained from 30 October planting. The maximum seed yield (389.67 kg) was found at the concentration of 75 ppm GA₃ and the lowest seed yield 379.60 kg per hectare was noticed from the control plant. The treatment combination of 30 October planting × 75 ppm GA₃ gave the highest seed yield (398.67 kg/ha). The quality of onion seeds varied significantly due to planting time and concentration of GA₃ used. The highest weight of thousand seeds (3.15 g) was obtained from 20 November planting time and 75 ppm GA₃. The highest germination percentage (78.90)was recorded from the treatment combination of 30 October planting × 75 ppm GA₃ .

Keywords: Planting date, Conc. of GA₃, Yield, Quality, Onion seed

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 13–20, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Effect of defoliation at vegetative stage on dry mass production and yield in cowpea

M.I. Biswas, M.A. Hossain and M.S.A. Fakir

Department of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh

Different degrees of defoliation (0%, 33%, 66%, and 100%) treatments were employed at vegetative stage (55 days after sowing) to investigate their effects on dry mass (DM) production, pod and seed yield in a cowpea (var. Fallon-1).  The results revealed that DM was the highest in control (74.3 g/plant) and it decreased significantly with increasing degree of defoliation. Results further showed that pod yield was similar between control and 33% defoliation treatments (average of 31.2 g/plant) and seed yield followed a trend similar to that of pod yield in these treatments (average of 20.5 g/plant). It may be concluded that cowpea variety like Fallon-1 may sustain partial defoliation at vegetative stage without affecting pod and seed yield. The practical implication of the results in relation to pest and disease control, and fodder yield is also discussed.

Keywords: Defoliation, Canopy structure, DM partitioning, Pod and Seed yield, Cowpea

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 21–28, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Extractable phosphorus in some soils of Bangladesh and its critical limits for mustard

M.Q Haque¹, A. Faruque², M.M.R. Jahangir², M.H. Rahman and M.A. Matin²

¹Soil Science Division, Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture, Mymensingh

²Department of Soil Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh

A pot experiment was conducted at glasshouse of Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), Mymensingh, with 18 extensively cultivated soils of Bangladesh to evaluate extractable P and to determine its critical limit for mustard. The available P contents in soils were extracted by four methods viz. Olsen, Hunter, Bray II and Nelson. The mean extractable P in soils was found to be in the order of Nelson > Bray 11 > Hunter > Olsen. Considerable variation was found in the amount of extractable P depending on the soils and extractants used. Dry matter yields were remarkably increased with addition of increasing rate of phosphatic fertilizer and the soil having low extractable P responded better to applied P. All extractable P except Nelson correlated positively and significantly with relative yield. Extractable P of all extractants except Nelson was positively and significantly correlated with P content of mustard in all and low pH soils. Phosphorus uptake was also positively correlated with all extractants in all and low pH soils. The critical limits of soil extractable P for mustard for Olsen, Hunter, Bray II and Nelson method were estimated as 8.6, 9.5, 14.5 and 20.0 ppm (Graphical method) and 10.5, 12.5, 16.5, and 16.5 ppm (Statistical method) respectively. Based on B² value it may be concluded that Nelson method of P extraction was found to be the best method for estimating P response of mustard.

Keywords: Extractable phosphorus, Relative yield, Dry matter yield, Critical limit, and Mustard

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 29–35, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Performance of Indian spinach in association with Eucalyptus for agroforestry system

K.L. Hossain¹, M.A. Wadud¹, K.S. Hossain² and M.R. Abdullah¹

¹Department of Agroforestry, BAU, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh

²Department of Botany, Dhaka College, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Performance of Indian spinach (Basella alba) grown under Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) in different orientations were evaluated from May to August, 2003 in the Bangladesh Agricultural University campus, Mymensingh. The treatments involve different orientations north, south, east and west for each of the tree. The experiment was conducted in RCBD design with three replications. The numbers of branches per plant, number of leaves per branch, leaf size, stem girth, weight of leaves per plant, weight of stem per plant, fresh and dry yield of spinach grown under Eucalyptus tree showed significant reduction than those grown in open field. Among different orientations both fresh and dry yield of Indian spinach showed better performance in south orientation followed by west, east and north. The fresh yield produced in south, west, east and north orientation were 50.79, 54.20, 56.14 and 56.37% less than the open field and that of for dry yields were 52.74, 56.41, 58.14 and 59.80% less respectively. The ranked order of different orientation for better performance was: South>West>East> North.

Keywords: Indian spinach, Eucalyptus, Agroforestry system

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 37–42, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Decomposition pattern of two green manures in BAU farm soil

N. Parvin, M.A.H. Chowdhury and H.S.J. Ferdous

Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

Decomposition pattern of two contrasting green manures viz. water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and mimosa (Mimosa invisa) was studied in an incubation experiment at the department of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, during the period from May to July, 2003. The soil was amended with the manures @ 1 g 50 g^-1 soil. A basal dose of 250 µg N, 200 µg P and 250 µg K g^-1 soil was also applied to each experimental unit. Microbial respiration as a measure of decomposition was monitored over 50 days at room temperature and different intervals of time. Of the amendments, mimosa decomposed more rapidly (14.3% vs. 3.8% by day 2) than water hyacinth. The highest decomposition rate was observed in mimosa at day 2 and water hyacinth at day 10. The decomposition of mimosa was approximately two times higher than water hyacinth. After 50 days of incubation, a total of 32 and 49% of the added C were respired from water hyacinth and mimosa, respectively. Both the rate and total decomposition of the green manures were also found to be related to their nutrient status (C : N : P : S ratios).

Keywords: Decomposition, Water hyacinth and Mimosa

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 43–48, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Evaluation of six plant extracts for their possible repellent effects against lesser mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer)

M. Kamruzzaman¹, M. Shahjahan² and M.L.R. Mollah¹

¹Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), P.O. Box-4, Mymensingh-2200 and ²Department of Entomology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

Experiment was carried out to investigate the repellent effect of leaf and seed extracts of six indigenous plants namely dholkalmi, Ipomoea fistulosa; dutura, Datura fastuosa; eucalyptus, Eucalyptus citriodora; hatisur, Helitropium indicum; khetpapri, Hedyotis corymbosa and urmoi, Sapium indicum against lesser mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer). Leaf and seed extracts of the test plants had moderate repellent effect. Among the extracts, the highest repellency was observed in dholkalmi leaf extract (repellency 47.91%) and hatisur seed extract (repellency 47.47%). The ethanol extracts of leaf and water extracts of seed were more effective in repelling the pest than those of the other two solvent extracts. In most of the cases, repellency rate decreased with the progress of time and increased proportionally with doses.   The results indicated the possibility of using dholkalmi leaf extract and hatisur seed extract as an alternative control measures for lesser mealworm as they were found to possess high repellency effect against the pest.  

Keywords: Plant extracts, Solvent, Lesser mealworm, A. diaperinus, Repellent

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 49–57, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Effect of brassinosteroid (TNZ-303), chloro indole acetic acid (CL-IAA) and GABA on vegetative growth of lentil

M.O. Islam¹, M.F. Dakua¹ and Y. Kamuro²

¹Department of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

²BAL Planning Co. Ltd, 2-15-16, Hanaike, Ichinomiya, Aichi 491, Japan

An experiment was carried out in the field and laboratory of the Department of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh to find out the effect of Cl-IAA, TNZ-303 and GABA on vegetative growth in lentil (Lens esculenta Moench.) var. BM-3 and BM-4. Plant growth regulators were applied on seeds by soaking in aqueous solution of different concentration for 12 hours prior to sowing. Vegetative growth of variety BM-3 was better than that of BM-4. Results revealed that all the plant growth regulators selectively enhanced vegetative growth of both the varieties. Among the PGRs, the GABA performed the best on  vegetative growth over other two plant growth regulators as well as over the control. The plant height, number of branches, number of leaves and number of nodules per plant significantly enhanced by GABA and the best result was at 0.664 ml L^-1. Among the other growth regulators TNZ-303 at 0.166 ml L^-1 and Cl-IAA at 0.332 ml L^-1 was also good for better morphological growth of lentil. All plant growth regulators regulated morphological growth of both the varieties.

Keywords: Cl-IAA, TNZ-303, GABA, Vegetative growth and Lentil

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 59–63, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Genetic divergence in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill)

A.K. Datta, M.A. Hossain and L. Rahman

Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh

Genetic divergence among twenty-one genotypes of soybean using Mahalanobis D² statistics revealed considerable variability among the genotypes for eight characters. The genotypes were grouped into four distinct clusters. The inter-cluster distances were larger than the intra-cluster distances suggesting wider genetic diversity among the genotypes of different groups. The inter-cluster average D² values showed maximum distance between cluster II and I followed by between II and III. The genetically diversed genotypes from these groups could be used as parents in hybridization program for getting desirable seggregants. Germplasms much in use of these characters of respective clusters would offer a good scope of improvement of the crops through rational selection.

Keywords: Genetic diversity, Soybean, Glycine max, Cluster analysis

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 65–69, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Influence of phosphorus, zinc and molybdenum on nutrient and b-ODAP contents of grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.) seed

M.T. Hossain¹, M.A. Hossain¹ and M.A. Sattar²

¹Department of Biochemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

²Soil Science Division, Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture, Mymensingh

A split-split-plot designed pot culture experiment was conducted to evaluate the influence of phosphorus, zinc and molybdenum on nutrient and neurotoxin (b-ODAP) contents of grasspea seeds. Results showed that in most cases the higher doses (P₂, Zn₂ and Mo₂) were statistically similar with the lower doses (P₁, Zn₁ and Mo₁) and the highest response was revealed with lower doses both separately and in combination of P₂Zn₁ and P₂Zn₁Mo₁ in respect of protein, proline, methionine, b-carotene, fat and b-ODAP content. 

Keywords: Phosphorus, Zinc, Molybdenum, Nutrients, b-ODAP and Grasspea seeds

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 71–76, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Study on the quality of the Rassomalai manufactured in laboratory and sweetmeat shops of different districts of Bangladesh

S. Yasmin, A. Wadud, M.N. Islam and T. Hasan

Department of Dairy Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh

An experiment was conducted at the Dairy Science Laboratory of the Department of Dairy Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during the period from July to September, 2004. Rassomalai is a famous sweetmeat of Bangladesh.  In our country sweetmeat traders do not apply the scientific procedure to produce quality Rassomalai. In this experiment Rassomalai was manufactured in Laboratory and compared with that of product collected from different districts (sadar) of Bangladesh. Physical, chemical and microbiological characteristics were investigated. Significant difference (P<0.01) was found in case of Rassomalai in terms of physical characteristics. It was observed from results that the moisture, dry matter, protein, fat, carbohydrate, ash g/kg and acidity % and pH contents of Laboratory made and different districts (Range Values) Rassomalai samples were 528.9 and 469.1-559.4; 471.1 and 440.6-530.9; 173.0 and 145.5-153.1; 80.0 and 60.2-62.2; 204.9 and 220.5-304.3; 13.2 and 12.1-15.2 g/kg and 0.38 and 0.32-0.53 % and 6.27 and 5.90-6.07 respectively and total viable count/ml and coliform count/ml showed significant differences (P<0.01) among the treatment means. Physical, chemical and microbiological examinations revealed that the quality of different districts Rassomalai was inferior to Laboratory made Rassomalai.

Keywords:  Quality, Rassomalai, Laboratory, Districts

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 77–82, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Perineal musculature in the Black Bengal goat

Z. Haque, M.A. Quasem, M.R. Karim and M.Z.I. Khan

Department of Anatomy and Histology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh

With the aim of preparing topographic descriptions and illustrations of the perineal muscles of the black Bengal does, 12 adult animals were used. The animals were anaesthetized and bled to death by giving incision on the right common carotid artery. Whole vascular system was flashed with 0.85% physiological saline solution and then 10% formalin was injected through the same route for well preservation. After preservation, the muscles of the perineum were surgically isolated, transected and studied.  It revealed that muscles of the pelvic diaphragm were M. levator ani and M. coccygeus. The M. levator ani was originated entirely from the sacrosciatic ligament and M. coccygeus from the medial side of the ischiatic spine and from the inside of the sacrotuberal ligament. M. levator ani was poorly developed and was blended with coccygeus for some distance at their insertion.  Muscles of the urogenital diaphragm were M. urethralis, M. ischiourethralis and M. bulboglandularis. M. bulboglandularis was a small circular muscle which enclosed the major vestibular gland. Anal musculature of the perineum were M. sphincter ani externus, M. rectococcygeus and M. rectractor clitoridis. M. sphincter ani externus completely encircled the anus. Its fibers crossed ventral to the anus and continued into the opposite labium and the labium on the same side. M. rectococcygeus inserted on the ventral surface of the 5^th and 6^th caudal vertebrae. M. retractor clitoridis was originated from the 3^rd and 4^th caudal vertebrae. Urogenital musculature of the perineum were M. transverses perinei superficialis, M. constrictor vestibuli and M. constrictor vulvae. M. constrictor vestibuli covered the ventrolateral surface of the vestibule.  M. constrictor vulvae was continuous with external anal sphincter at the decussation. The overall findings of this work will be helpful for the veterinarians, veterinary students, teachers and research personnel in the relevant technical fields.

Keywords: Black Bengal doe, Perineum, Pelvic diaphragm, Urogenital diaphragm

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 83–86, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Epidemiological investigation of hydatidosis in ruminants in different slaughterhouses of Dhaka

S.A. Sarder¹, M.A. Ehsan², A.K.M.M. Anower³, and M.M. Rahman⁴

¹Central Veterinary Hospital, Dhaka, ²Department of Medicine, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, ³Livestock Research Institute, Dhaka and ⁴District Veterinary Hospital, Gazipur

A cross-sectional epidemiological investigation was conducted in slaughtered cattle(n=2102), buffaloes(n=827) and goats(n=897) of Dhaka during January to December, 2003 to study the overall frequency and distribution of hydatidosis. The hydatid cysts were diagnosed on the basis of parasitological findings. Of the 2102 cattle, 361(17.17%), 347(41.95%) of the 827 buffaloes and 139(15.49%) off 897 goats were affected with hydatidosis. The present study noted that lungs were more common organ in case of cattle 43.77 %, buffaloes 30.84 % and goat 46.76 % and found higher infection in female than male animals.

Keywords: Hydatidosis, Ruminants, Slaughter houses, Dhaka

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 87–94, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Avian liver fluke infection in indigenous ducks in Bangladesh: prevalence and pathology

Anisuzzaman¹, M.A. Alim¹, M.K. Islam¹, P.M. Das², T. Farjana¹ and M.M.H. Mondal¹

¹Department of Parasitology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

²Department of Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

The prevalence and pathological effects of the trematodes in liver and gallbladder of the indigenous ducks in Bangladesh were investigated during the period from July 2003 to June 2004. Out of 300 ducks examined, 208 (69.33%) ducks were infected with one or more species of avian liver flukes. The liver fluke species, recovered from the liver and gallbladder were: Metorchis orientalis (55.33%), Amphimerus anatis (54.33%), Amphimerus lancea (12.00%) and Amphimerus caudalitestis (1.00%). The highest prevalence was recorded in monsoon (91.30%) followed by winter (76.51%) and summer (49.52%). Similarly, the parasitic load was relatively higher in monsoon (23.10±3.10) followed by winter (18.76±2.98) and summer (08.99±2.95). The prevalence of the trematodes was significantly (P<0.01) higher in adult ducks (82.61%) than in the young ducks (25.71%). The mean parasitic density was also higher in adult ducks (25.24±3.99) of > 6 months age than in the young ducks (06.91±1.39) of < 6 months age. Almost similar rate of infection was recorded in male (70.71%) and female (68.13%) ducks with an average parasitic burden of 26.41±3.54 and 24.92±2.96 respectively. In most cases, the parasitized liver was slightly atrophied characterized by the smaller size with shrinkage or wrinkling of the liver capsule. The edges or borders of the livers were sharp along with tiny white necrotic foci in some cases. On cut surface, the parasites were found in the bile ducts but no calcification was detected. Grossly, gallbladder was apparently normal containing adult parasites in it. Histopathologically, cross-section of parasites with their eggs and cellular debris were found within the bile ducts. Desquamation of the bile duct epithelium was observed but in some cases, the bile duct epithelium was hyperplastic in nature. Microabscesses with infiltration of lymphocytes, macrophages and polymorphonuclear cells predominantly neutrophils were revealed in the hepatic lobules. Proliferation of the fibroblasts occurred around the bile ducts. But in advanced cases, extensive fibrosis observed which extended from the portal triads to the adjacent hepatic lobules resulting disorganization of the normal hepatic architecture leading to cirrhosis. In severe cases, the normal structures of the bile ducts were almost obliterated by the extensive proliferation of the fibroblasts converting it into a fibrous tube. This study suggests that the avian liver flukes of the indigenous ducks of all ages and sexes may be a major problem.

Keywords: Avian liver fluke, Indigenous ducks, Prevalence, Pathology

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 95–97, 2005                                                   ISSN 1810-3030

Hematology of anorectic, anemic and hematinic treated cattle

M.M. Rahman¹, M.A. Miah¹, S. Majumder², M.M.  Alam³, M.Z. Hosain¹ and

M.M. Rahman¹

¹Department of Physiology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

²Dept. of Agricultural Statistics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

³Dept. of Surgery and Obstetrics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

A total of 30 indigenous cattle were studied to observe the haematology of anorectic, anemic and both as well as haematinic treated cattle. 10 cattle were apparently healthy selected from BAU dairy farm. 20 animals were selected from BAU veterinary clinics of which 10 were anorexic and 10 were both anorexic and anemic. They were grouped as A, B, C. Cattle of group C were treated with haematinic mixture. The cattle suffering from anorexia (group B) revealed a significant (P<0.01) decrease in Hb, PCV, MCV and MCH as compared to control (Table 1). Whereas, the cattle of group C exhibited a significant decrease in TEC, Hb, PCV, MCHC and MCH and a significant (P<0.01) increase in TLC. The changes in the TEC, Hb, PCV, TLC and MCHC were remarkably decreased in the cattle suffering from anorexia with anemia than the cattle with anorexia only. For anorectic cattle MCV was observed more severe than that of anemic cattle. After treating the anorectic with anemic cattle with haematinic mixture, the mean value of the  PCV, Hb, MCV and MCH increased significantly (P<0.01). TEC and MCHC were also increased but TEC significantly (P<0.05) and MCHC insignificantly (P>0.05). The parameter TLC decreased significantly (P<0.01). It may be concluded that haematinic treatment improved the haematological parameters of the cattle with anorexia and anemia.

Keywords: Anorexia, Anemia and Hematinics

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 99–104, 2005                                                  ISSN 1810-3030

Study on the productive and reproductive performance of 3 native genotypes of chicken under intensive management

R. Khatun, M.S. Islam, S. Faruque, S.A. Azmal and M.S. Uddin, Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute, Savar, Dhaka-1341

To improve the native chicken, a total of 75 males and 750 females was reared from the 3 types of chicken namely, Naked neck (NN), Hilly and Non descript deshi (ND) which have been collected from different parts of the country. The number of each Naked neck (NN), Hilly and Non descript deshi (ND) type of chicken in the foundation stock genotypes were 275 (250 females and 25 males). Multiplication of the established birds has already been started and the present stock will be increased as required for future selective breeding work. These foundation stocks were raised under confinement with standard management practices and vaccination. They were supplied the nutrient as per recommendation. All productive, reproductive and egg quality parameters at 38 weeks of age were studied. The results indicate that the percentage of hatchability on fertile eggs and set eggs and also dead in shell (embryonic mortality) were significantly different (P<0.01) among genotypes. No significant difference (P>0.05) was observed in age at sexual maturity, fertility, dead in germ, normal chicks and abnormal chicks among the 3 native genotypes. Significantly difference (P<0.01) was found in body weight among the 3 native genotypes at 38 weeks of age. Egg weight was similar in NN (42.94) and ND (42.08) and lowest in Hilly (40.25). No significant difference (P>0.05) was found in morning egg production rate, egg production, feed intake and survivability. But significantly (P<0.01) highest afternoon egg production was found in NN (32.68%) and lowest and similar in Hilly (27.23%) and ND (28.31%). The egg quality traits; egg weight, yolk index and shell thickness were significantly different (P<0.05), but the other egg quality traits were not significantly different (P>0.05) among 3 genotypes. The native germplasm is very much potential in context of disease resistant and genetic variability under the existing harsh environment. So we can use these for future breeding program to improvement and upgrading the native genotypes and exotic one.

Keywords: Native chicken, Intensive management, Productive, Reproductive and

                   Qualitative traits

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 105–112, 2005                                                ISSN 1810-3030

Changes on haematological parameters of artificially infected Thai pangus Pangasius hypopthalamus by Edwardsiella tarda bacteria

M. Mamnur Rashid¹, M.M. Alam¹, M. Abdurrazzak¹ and K.J. Bhuiyan²

¹Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh

²Department of Agricultural Statistics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh

Thai pangus, Pangasius hypopthalamus was experimentally infected with Edwardsiella tarda bacteria and the changes in haematological parameters were observed. Haematocrit value, haemoglobin concentration and erythrocyte count decreased when fish were artificially infected with pathogenic E. tarda but erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) increased. Number of leucocytes as well as the percentage of monocytes and neutrophils increased with the post infection days. No remarkable changes were found in the percentage of other leucocytes during the post infection days but variable results were obtained in comparison to the control group.

Keywords: Haematology, Artificial infection, Pangasius hypopthalamus, Edwardsiella tarda

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 113–119, 2005                                                ISSN 1810-3030

Estimation of fecundity of endangered indigenous sarpunti, Puntius sarana 

B.K. Chakraborty^1, M.I. Miah², M.J.A. Mirza³ and M.A.B. Habib⁴

¹Directorate of Fisheries, Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, ²Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202 and ³Graduate Training Institute, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202 and ⁴Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh - 2202

The fecundity was measured by Gravimetric method. Fecundity of P. sarana was found to range from 34443.83±1723.12 to 65485.14±3286.53 from 100 samples having a total length of 172.67±2.07 to 222.71±1.38 mm, body weight from 166.33±2.73 to 221.0±1.15g and gonad weight from 18.67±1.21 to 56.71±0.49 g. The relationship between body length and fecundity was found to be polynomial of second order of body weight and was expressed as: Y = 22137 - 303.8 X + 2.2431 X². The regression equation established for fecundity on total body weight was Y = - 62461 +470.81 X. The above equation shows that the relationship between fecundity and total weight was curvilinear. Both the regression co-efficient were highly significant (P < 0.01) and the equation expressed more than 87% of variation in fecundity. A highly significant (P < 0.01) linear relationship was found to exist between fecundity and gonadal weight.

Keywords: Fecundity, Ovary, Polynomial, Linear relationship, Correlation coefficient, Lobes

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 121–131, 2005                                                ISSN 1810-3030

Population ecology and infestation of monogenetic trematodes in juvenile carp fishes of Mymensingh

A.K. Barai¹, K.J. Chandra¹ and S. Majumder²

¹Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh; ²Department of Agricultural Statistics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh

Investigation on infestations of monogenetic trematodes of juvenile carp fishes of different  nurseries of Mymensingh region was conducted during November 2002 to February 2004. Five government farms and five private farms were investigated for this purpose. Juveniles of commonly cultured species of Indian major carps- Labeo rohita, Cirrhinus mrigala, Catla catla and Labeo gonia; exotic carps- Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Cyprinus carpio, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Aristicthys nobilis and Barbodes gonionotus were examined for parasitic infestation. The infestations were found in both Indian and exotic juvenile carps in government as well as private farms. Prevalence (%), intensity and abundance were found to be species specific and also varied with seasons and management systems (government or private) practised in different farms. The highest prevalence and mean intensity were found in C. mrigala and the lowest in H. molitrix. The prevalence in Indian juvenile carps was significantly (p < 0.01) different from that of exotic juvenile carps in both government and private farms. Significantly (p<0.05) highest prevalence was found in summer and lowest in winter season. Comparatively higher infestation was observed in private farms (highest in Boira) and the lower infestation in government farms (lowest in Mashkanda). Suggestion has been made on minimization of monogenean infestations to juvenile carp nurseries.

Keywords: Monogenea, Infestation, Juvenile carps, Trematodes, Mymensingh

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 133–138, 2005                                                ISSN 1810-3030

E-STAT: A computer model to perform statistical analysis of experimental data

M.H. Ali

Agricultural Engineering Division, Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture, P.O.Box-04, Mymensingh- 2200, Bangladesh

Statistics is an essential tool for all types of research. A simple statistical analytical tool, called model  ‘E-STAT’ was developed with a view to help the applied researchers. E-STAT is programmed in Microsoft Excel following standard analytical technique. It provides facility to analyze experimental data with customized data entry and editing facility for most types of designs. It is easy to print input & output files with ‘E-STAT’. A distinguishing feature of the model is the dynamic nature of the interaction between input and output. Semi-skilled personnel would be able to operate it.

Keywords: Statistical software, Analytical tool, Agricultural research

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 139–147, 2005                                                ISSN 1810-3030

Reference crop evapo-transpiration (ET₀) over Bangladesh and its implication in crop planning

M.H. Ali¹, M.G.M. Amin² and A.K.M.R. Islam³

¹Agricultural Engineering Division, Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture, P.O. Box–4, Mymensingh 2200, Bangladesh; ²Department of Irrigation and Water Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh; ³Graduate Training Institute, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh.

An accurate estimate of crop water requirement is of vital importance in planning, design and operation of irrigation and water resources system. Relationships between the evapo-transpiration of a pre-selected crop (the reference crop), which is referred to as reference evapo-transpiration (ET₀), and other crops are established by multiplying ET₀ by crop coefficients. The Penman-Monteith (P-M) equation with its new definition of ET₀ is recommended by FAO as the standard method of crop water requirement calculation. Using 54 years climatic data, the ET₀  for different regions of Bangladesh were calculated with FAO CROPWAT software. The implication of the ET₀ values in crop planning are discussed.

Key words: Penman-Monteith equation, Reference evapotranspiration, CROPWAT, Crop planning

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 149–154, 2005                                                ISSN 1810-3030

Studies on solar radiation and potential crop production at Comilla, Bangladesh

A.K.M. Adham¹, M.H. Ali² and F. Khanam³

¹Department of Irrigation and Water Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh,

²Agricultural Engineering Division, Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture, P.O. Box-04, Mymensingh 2200, and ³Department of Agricultural Economics, H.M.D.S. & T. University, Dinajpur

To increase the crop production to its potential, it is needed first to know the upper limit of dry-matter production. Solar radiation data in the region of Comilla district was analyzed to estimate the potential crop production. The region received annual atmospheric radiation of 12,549 MJ/m². Of this, 30 % reached the earth’s surface as global radiation. Monthly mean daily global radiation varied from 8.4 MJ/m²/day in December to 15.2 MJ/m²/day in April. The annual global radiation received was 3792 MJ/m². Based on 6.6 % photosynthetic efficiency, the available radiation could produce 117.4 t/ha drymatter in three crop seasons under optimum conditions of nutrition and other growth factors. Actual maximum dry-matter production during these three seasons was 32.6 t/ha (only 28 % of the solar potential). Hence, there is scope to further increase in crop production (by 260 %) in this area. Breading of crop varieties, selection of suitable crop rotations and agronomic practices can boost up productivity to potential level through utilization of the available solar energy.

Keywords: Agriculture, Climate, Dry matter production, Solar radiation, Extraterrestrial  radiation, Photosynthetic efficiency 

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 155–162, 2005                                                ISSN 1810-3030

Profitability of mechanical thresher and dryer in rice processing system in Bangladesh: A financial analysis

H. Mamtaz¹, M. Akteruzzaman¹ and S. Akhter²

¹Department of Agricultural Economics Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

²Department of Agricultural Finance, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202

This study surveyed 30-power thresher and one STR-1 dryer operation during the April to June 2003 in some villages of Barhatta Upazila in Netrakona district. Project appraisal technique was adopted to compare the performance of the two types of devices in terms of benefit cost ratio, net present value and internal rate of return (IRR). The costs of threshing and drying per quintal were respectively          Tk 25.36 and Tk 30.03. The cost of firing wood, diesel and labour costs constitutes the major share of the total drying cost while the labour and diesel cost constituted the major share of the threshing cost of paddy. IRR of the dryer machine was found -2 percent and for thresher, it was 89.12 percent. The dryer was used only 10 working days during the rainy season of 2003. If it is considered 30 working days due to increase in rainy weather, the IRR will be 72 percent. Rainy weather is very important factor for using the dryer. Finally, the study strongly recommended for rapid extension of thresher and dryer technologies through government and non-government agencies for improving livelihood of the resource poor farmers.

Keywords:   Mechanical dryer, Drying and Threshing cost, Benefit cost ratio, Net present value and Internal rate of return

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 163–172, 2005                                                ISSN 1810-3030

Agribusiness of poultry and poultry products in Bangladesh

S.B. Alam¹, M.A.K. Azad² and S.A. Sabur¹

¹Department of Cooperation and Marketing and ²Department of Animal Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh

The present research has been undertaken to study the agribusiness of poultry with the following objectives: to study the market structure and distribution system of important inputs used in poultry farms; to estimate the cost, return and profitability of broiler and layer farms; to examine the existing marketing system and estimate the cost, margin and profit of traders involved in the marketing chain; and to suggest some policy measures for sustained development of poultry industry. According to farm owners the Aratdars were mainly responsible for different crisis in poultry sector. Eighty two Aratdars in Tejgaon area control the whole poultry business in Dhaka. The government has no control over them. They fix price according to their will. The Aratdars reputed the farm owners’ complain. They stated that they earned only Tk. 5 as profit from selling 100 eggs.The farm owner association reported that there is no appropriate government policy for poultry industry.

Keywords: Agribusiness, Poultry, Poultry products, Bangladesh

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 173–180, 2005                                                ISSN 1810-3030

Channel of remittances – A micro level study

M.S. Haque and M.A. Bashar

Department of Agricultural Finance, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh

This study was conducted to review the existing remittance channels in transferring remittance money from abroad to selected areas of Bangladesh. The study is based on carefully collected primary level data from forty-three villages of Habiganj district. The sample of the study consisted of 100 migrant workers - 40 from England, 32 from Saudi Arabia and 28 from Malaysia. Findings showed that the advantages of the Hundi system over the bank draft in terms of time taken, security and costs involved (per remittance) attracted most of the migrant workers to remit their savings through Hundi. Its main attraction is speed and this becomes important under certain circumstances (e.g. like emergencies). It is also found that out of total remittances more than 90% of these remittances comprised cash remittances. Delay in encashing cheque, high commission/taxes compared to informal channels and unawareness about formal channels were the major problems associated with remittance transfer to Bangladesh. More consciousness of the migrant workers as well as the timely government intervention could minimize some of these problems.

Keywords: Migrant workers, Remittance money, Hundi, Demand drafts

J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 3(1): 181–188, 2005                                                ISSN 1810-3030

Relative profitability of different aged betel leaf production at farm level in some selected areas of Bangladesh

M.R.H. Mridha, H. Jahan and M.M. Murshed

Department of Agricultural Economics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh

This study was conducted to determine the profitability of betel leaf production in Bangladesh from the view point of different aged Boroj, i.e. new Boroj (1 to 5 years), mid-aged Boroj (6 to 15 years) and old Boroj (above 15 years). Three villages namely Maria, Chaubania and Raipara of Maria union from Rajshahi district were selected purposively for the study and in total of 120 betel leaf growers were selected as samples by using stratified random sampling technique of which each stratum consisted of 40 betel leaf growers. Primary data were collected from the selected betel leaf growers during the period of January to June 2001. A simple cost and returns analysis was done to determine the profitability of betel leaf production. Further, Cobb-Douglas production function was used to determine the contributions of key inputs to betel leaf production using seven explanatory variables in the model. The annual costs of production of betel leaf per hectare were estimated at Tk. 2,67,260.40, 1,95,879.04 and Tk. 2,06,914.13 for  new mid-aged and old Boroj, respectively and corresponding net returns per hectare were Tk. 4,25,625.28, 2,84,670.18 and Tk. 2,58,857.54, respectively The study revealed that betel leaf production was a profitable business. Further, betel leaf production in new Boroj was more profitable than those in mid-aged and old Boroj. Also the estimated R² and F-value confirm significant use of inputs on betel leaf production and showed increasing returns to scale.

Keywords: Profitability, Betel leaf, Cost & Return, Cobb-Douglas