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Fisseha Itanna

Addis Ababa University, Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, Faculty Member

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Fisseha Itanna Danno is an Ethiopian soil scientist and academician who has passion for soils and the environment and spent years conducting research in these disciplines. He equally engaged his students undertake postgraduate research in these disciplines. His research outputs are well documented in reputable local and international journals.

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Papers by Fisseha Itanna

Microbial Biomass carbon as a sensitive indicator of soil quality changes

Ethiopian Journal of Natural Resources., 2007

(English) Soil microbial biomass is part of the active pool of soil organic matter playing a vita... more

Characteristics of soils under seasonally flooded wetlands (oshanas) in north-central Namibia

African Journal of Agricultural Research, 2016

Lowland wetlands generally have a high agricultural production potential and can be local hot-spo... more Lowland wetlands generally have a high agricultural production potential and can be local hot-spots for biodiversity. Specific seasonal wetland system is largely distributed in north-central Namibia. Seasonal wetlands consist of seasonal river wetlands (locally known as oshanas). However, studies on soil fertility, salinity and sodicity in seasonal river wetlands are still limited in this area. The objective of this study was hence to investigate the soil fertility status of seasonal wetlands and evaluate their potential for agricultural production and consider sustainability of the land use system. Soil samples were collected from 102 different spots of the flood plain within 3 major seasonal rivers, and analyzed for their physico-chemical properties and salinity and sodicity. The findings for average soil organic carbon (1.94 g kg-1) and average clay contents (102.3 g kg-1) of seasonal rivers were drastically lower than the wetland of semi-arid Africa regions (organic carbon, 5.8 g kg-1 ; clay contents, 340 g kg-1), and organic carbon and clay content significantly (p<0.05) decreased at the lower part of each seasonal river. Most of the seasonal river soil's' electrical conductivity of saturated paste extract (ECe) and the sodium adsorption ratio of the saturated paste extract (SAR) were more than 4 dS m-1 and 13, respectively. However, there were large differences in electrical conductivity of saturated paste extract (ECe) and the sodium adsorption ratio of the saturated paste extract (SAR) values among the sampling spots. These findings suggest the high agricultural importance to improve the soil organic matter and clay contents, and land selection to avoid the strongly high saline-sodic soil sites in seasonal river.

Optimized vermicomposting of a goat manure-vegetable food waste mixture for enhanced nutrient release

Scientific African, Jul 1, 2021

Abstract In arid countries, goats are the preferred small livestock and these generate dung that ... more Abstract In arid countries, goats are the preferred small livestock and these generate dung that can be used as manure to improve the soil quality. Furthermore, in arid countries like Namibia, most of the fruits and vegetables are imported, and during transportation, damage and deterioration may occur, which results in losses. This study seeks to optimize the vermicomposting of goat manure and vegetable food waste to generate a nutrient rich organic fertilizer using Eisenia fetida earthworms. The influence of various ratios of vegetable food waste (FW) and goat manure (GM) mixtures on vermi-degradation and plant nutrient release was evaluated. There were significant differences (P 50FW:50GM > control (100GM) > 25FW:75GM. Similarly, the 75FW:25GM and 50FW:50GM treatments had the highest final concentration of Olsen phosphorus of 0.98 and 0.96 g per kg of compost, respectively. Relative to the control, the treatments with 75%; 50% and 25% FW resulted in a 113%; 109% and 60% more Olsen phosphorus, respectively, after 12 weeks of vermicomposting. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) across all treatments on nitrate/nitrite concentrations following 12 weeks of vermicomposting. The changes in plant available P and N during vermicomposting were predictable using second order polynomial equations. This study concludes that a compost mixture of the ratio 75FW: 25GM or 50FW:50GM will give an optimized vermicompost for plant P nutrition after about 10 to 12 weeks of vermicomposting.

Seaweed (Gracilariopsis funicularis) biochar incorporation into goat manure-food waste vermicompost for optimized vermi-degradation and nutrient release

Research Square (Research Square), Apr 20, 2022

Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration... more Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration of macro nutrients such as (NPK) are very low. This study therefore evaluated the biochar from seaweed (Gracilariopsis funicularis) incorporated into a goat manure-food waste mixture at 0% (control); 2%; 4%; 6% and 8% on compost degradation and macro-nutrient release. After 10 weeks of vermicomposting the highest pH of 9.06 was observed within the control whilst the lowest was 8.7 in the 8% treatment. The electrical conductivity showed a positive relationship with the level of biochar incorporation with the highest of 16.5 mS/cm from the 8% treatment whilst the lowest was within the control with 6 mS/cm. There were no signi cant differences between treatments on humi cation parameters, however there were signi cant differences on the changes of C/N ratio with the nal C/N ratio of 14.4; 14.9; 16.7; 15.1 and 14.4 for the control; 2%; 4%; 6%; and 8% treatments respectively. Higher incorporation rate resulted in the higher concentration of potassium with a value of 32.3 g/kg at week 8. The nal percentage change in Olsen P was 19%: 14.2%; 7.3%; 4.1% and 3.0% for the 8%; 6%; control; 4%; and 2% treatments, respectively. An optimized level of 6 to 8 % biochar incorporation ratio can be recommended. However, incorporation of G. funicularis biochar does not seem to in uence changes in the vermi degradation e ciency, though it can signi cantly improve the macro nutrients like P, K and Mg concentrations as well as the macro element concentrations. Statement Of Novelty New vermicomposting process making use of marine biomass biochar to enhance nutrient composition whilst other researchers used terrestrial biomass. Creates new frontier in marine biomass valorisation.

The potential fertilizer value of Namibian beach-cast seaweed (Laminaria pallida and Gracilariopsis funicularis) biochar as a nutrient source in organic agriculture

Scientific African, Nov 1, 2020

Background: Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) combined with an en bloc extended right hemicolectomy is... more Background: Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) combined with an en bloc extended right hemicolectomy is required to achieve complete oncological resection of various malignancies. Information regarding the indications and outcomes of this procedure is limited. Study design: Patients requiring PD combined with extended right hemicolectomy for primary tumours from 2002 to 2008 were identified. Results: PD combined with an en bloc extended right hemicolectomy was required in 14 patients, constituting 8% of pancreaticoduodenal resections. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (8), retroperitoneal sarcoma (2) and colon cancer (2) were the main primary tumours resected. The indication for an extended right hemicolectomy was extensive tumour involvement of the transverse mesentery in seven patients. Clear tumour margins were achieved in 11 individuals. The median operating time was 10 h with intra-operative transfusions required in three patients. One or more complications were noted in eight, with delayed gastric emptying and pancreatic fistula the most common. The median length of hospital stay was 8 days. The overall 2-year survival in this series was 37%, with a median survival of 20 months in pancreatic cancer patients. Conclusions: This series suggests that PD combined with an en bloc extended right hemicolectomy is feasible and can achieve complete tumour clearance with acceptable morbidity.

Soil moisture content and maize grain yield under conventional and conservation agriculture practices - results of short term field tests in Liselo, Namibia

African Journal of Agricultural Research

This article focuses on the results from trials developed to monitor the short-term effects of co... more This article focuses on the results from trials developed to monitor the short-term effects of conventionally tilled systems versus CA on soil quality and crop productivity under conditions of the major cropping systems in central, north-central and northeastern regions of Namibia. Conventional tillage (CT), Minimum tillage (MT), Minimum tillage, mulch (MT-M), Minimum tillage, rotation (MT-R) and Minimum tillage, mulch and rotation (MT-MR) were the primary treatments tested. Significant differences (p≤0.000) among the treatments were observed in the 0-60 cm soil profiles where MT-M plots had the highest soil moisture content (39.8 mm, Standard Error of Mean 0.2815) over the study period. A significant difference (p=0.0206) in grain yield was observed in the second season with CT plots yielding the highest grain yield (3852.3 kg ha-1 , standard error of mean 240.35). Results suggest that CA has the potential to increase water conservation and contribute to reduction of the risk of crop failure. Climate change driven degradation under conventional tillage necessitate alternative sustainable tillage methods. Conservation tillage methods and conservation agricultural practices that minimize soil disturbance while maintaining soil cover need to be adopted more locally as viable alternatives to conventional tillage.

Soil moisture content and maize grain yield under conventional and conservation agriculture practices - results of short term field tests in liselo, Namibia

by Ladislaus P A N D U R A Kudumo and Fisseha Itanna

African Journal of Agricultural Research, Sep 7, 2023

This article focuses on the results from trials developed to monitor the short-term effects of ... more This article focuses on the results from trials developed to monitor the short-term effects of
conventionally tilled systems versus CA on soil quality and crop productivity under conditions of the
major cropping systems in central, north-central and north-eastern regions of Namibia. Conventional
tillage (CT), Minimum tillage (MT), Minimum tillage, mulch (MT-M), Minimum tillage, rotation (MT-R) and
Minimum tillage, mulch and rotation (MT-MR) were the primary treatments tested. Significant
differences (p≤0.000) among the treatments were observed in the 0-60 cm soil profiles where MT-M
plots had the highest soil moisture content (39.8 mm, Standard Error of Mean 0.2815) over the study
period. A significant difference (p=0.0206) in grain yield was observed in the second season with CT
plots yielding the highest grain yield (3852.3 kg ha-1
, standard error of mean 240.35). Results suggest
that CA has the potential to increase water conservation and contribute to reduction of the risk of crop
failure. Climate change driven degradation under conventional tillage necessitate alternative
sustainable tillage methods. Conservation tillage methods and conservation agricultural practices that
minimize soil disturbance while maintaining soil cover need to be adopted more locally as viable
alternatives to conventional tillage.

Key words: Conservation agriculture, conventional tillage, grain yield, soil moisture content.

Indexing soil quality: a new paradigm in soil science research

by Teklu Erkossa Jijo and Fisseha Itanna

Australian Journal of Soil Research, 2007

Soil quality indexing is a new approach in spatial and temporal evaluation of land management sys... more Soil quality indexing is a new approach in spatial and temporal evaluation of land management systems effects on soils’ capacity to function. A field experiment was conducted at Caffee Doonsa (2400 m a.s.l., 08°57′N, 39°06′E) for 6 years (1998–2003) to compare the effects of land preparation methods on soil quality (SQ) and to test the use of the Soil Management Assessment Framework (SMAF) in assessing SQ under the Ethiopian Central Highlands conditions. Four methods of land preparation [broad bed and furrows (BBF), green manure (GM), ridge and furrows (RF), and reduced tillage (RT)] were arranged in a randomised complete block design with 3 replications on permanent plots (22 m by 6 m). Physical, chemical, and biological SQ indicators were determined and scored, and a soil quality index (SQI) was developed using the SMAF procedures. Seven SQ indicators including microbial biomass carbon (MBC), bulk density, aggregate stability (AGG), soil organic carbon (Corg), pH, available water ...

Seaweed (Gracilariopsis funicularis) biochar incorporation into goat manure-food waste vermicompost for optimized vermi-degradation and nutrient release

Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration... more Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration of macro nutrients such as (NPK) are very low. This study therefore evaluated the biochar from seaweed ( Gracilariopsis funicularis ) incorporated into a goat manure-food waste mixture at 0% (control); 2%; 4%; 6% and 8% on compost degradation and macro-nutrient release. After 10 weeks of vermicomposting the highest pH of 9.06 was observed within the control whilst the lowest was 8.7 in the 8% treatment. The electrical conductivity showed a positive relationship with the level of biochar incorporation with the highest of 16.5 mS/cm from the 8% treatment whilst the lowest was within the control with 6 mS/cm. There were no significant differences between treatments on humification parameters, however there were significant differences on the changes of C/N ratio with the final C/N ratio of 14.4; 14.9; 16.7; 15.1 and 14.4 for the control; 2%; 4%; 6%; and 8% treatments respectively. Higher i...

Comparative Study on the Effect of Applying Biogas Slurry and Inorganic Fertilizer on Soil Properties, Growth and Yield of White Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. alba)

by Yalemtsehay Debebe and Fisseha Itanna

Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare, 2016

The use of locally available, nutrient rich organic sources is an effective means for improving s... more The use of locally available, nutrient rich organic sources is an effective means for improving soil fertility and increasing crop yield in view of the escalating cost of inorganic fertilizers and low fertilizer use efficiency of crops in Ethiopia. This study was conducted in Sebeta Hawas Woreda with the objective of comparing the effectiveness of bio-slurry and inorganic fertilizer on soil properties, growth and yield of white cabbage. Laboratory analysis and field experiment were done on bio-slurry in liquid and composted form to determine the nutrient content and effect of bio-slurry and inorganic fertilizer on plant height, number of leaves, head yield and nutrient content of cabbage as well as physical and chemical properties of the soil. The maximum plant height (cm) was obtained from T6 (recommended dose of inorganic fertilizer (RDIF) + biogas slurry compost (BGSC) at (8ton/ha), while the lowest plant height (cm) was recorded in T1 (control). Cabbage plants treated with T7...

Seaweed (Gracilariopsis funicularis) biochar incorporation into a goat manure-food waste vermicompost for optimized vermi-degradation and nutrient release

Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration... more Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration of macro nutrients such as (NPK) are very low. This study therefore evaluated the biochar from seaweed ( Gracilariopsis funicularis ) incorporated into a goat manure-food waste mixture at 0% (control); 2%; 4%; 6% and 8% on compost degradation and macro-nutrient release. After 10 weeks of vermicomposting the highest pH of 9.06 was observed within the control whilst the lowest was 8.7 in the 8% treatment. The electrical conductivity showed a positive relationship with the level of biochar incorporation with the highest of 16.5 mS/cm from the 8% treatment whilst the lowest was within the control with 6 mS/cm. There were no significant differences between treatments on humification parameters, however there were significant differences on the changes of C/N ratio with the final C/N ratio of 14.4; 14.9; 16.7; 15.1 and 14.4 for the control; 2%; 4%; 6%; and 8% treatments respectively. Higher i...

Variation in soil properties under different land use types managed by smallholder farmers along the toposequence in southern Ethiopia

Geoderma, 2017

Understanding soil properties under different land use types along toposequences is vital in dete... more Understanding soil properties under different land use types along toposequences is vital in determining the types of soil management practices that could be implemented by smallholder farmers for improving the soil health as well as soil productivity. It is also important in addressing the issues of agricultural sustainability. With the objectives of investigating variation in soil properties under different land use types managed by smallholder farmers along the toposequences, three land use types: agroforestry land (AG), cultivated land (CL) and grazing land (GL) under three slope categories (upper, middle and lower slope) were selected in southern Ethiopia, Deko watershed. A total of 108 composite soil samples [3 treatments (land use types) − 3 replications − 3 slope categories (upper, middle and lower) − 4 soil depth layers: 0-20 cm, 20-40 cm, 40-60 cm and N60 cm] were collected for laboratory analyses. In addition, undisturbed soil samples were taken using core sampler from each soil depth for the determination of soil bulk density. To infer the biological properties of the soils naked eye soil macro-fauna (NEMF) was counted. The results showed that among the soil properties sand (p b 0.001), clay (p = 0.002), soil bulk density (p b 0.001), soil reactio (pH, p b 0.001), Electrical conductivity (EC, p b 0.001), Soil organic carbon (SOC %, p b 0.001), Total nitrogen (TN %, p = 0.001) and NEMF (p b 0.001) have shown a significant variation among the land use types while sand (p = 0.027), silt (p = 0.001), clay (p b 0.001), SOC (p b 0.001) and TN (p = 0.002) exhibiting significant variation among the slope categories. Similarly, variation of soil bulk density (p b 0.001), soil pH (p b 0.001), SOC (p b 0.001), TN (p = 0.002) and NNEMF (p b 0.001) were also statistically significant along the soil depth. Clay was the dominant soil textural fraction showing an increasing trend along the toposequence. Agroforestry land use type has the higher SOC, TN, pH values and EC while cultivated land use type having relatively low amount of SOC, TN, pH and EC. The lower values on cultivated land use types were due to the effects of continuous tillage practices by the smallholder farmers in the area. Slope had minimum effect on soil pH, EC, soil bulk density and the number of observable macro-faunas in the area. Moreover, SOC and TN were increased down the slope on the cultivated land use types of the area. The role of erosion is magnificent in removing SOC and TN from upper slope to lower slope as the area is more vulnerable to erosion due rugged topography. Thus, applying soil and water conservation measures on cultivated land use types play a vital role in minimizing the removal of soils down the slope.

Tree Biomass Carbon in different Land Use Types Managed by Smallholder Farmers Along Altitudinal Gradient in Central Highlands of Ethiopia

Background and Aims Biomass carbon (C) stocks of trees across three common traditional agroforest... more Background and Aims Biomass carbon (C) stocks of trees across three common traditional agroforestry practices (i.e. home-garden, farmland, and grazing land) and along altitudinal gradients (i.e. upper, middle and lower) in southern Ethiopia are presented and evaluated. These traditional AF systems are characterized by a high proportion and diversity of trees hence can play a remarkable role in climate change adaptation and mitigation. Methods Data were collected from a total of 89 plots: 41 home-gardens, 29 croplands, and 19 grazing lands using total count and Y-frame transect sampling methods. Above-and belowground biomass of trees were calculated using allometric equations developed somewhere else but proven for application in agroforestry systems. Trees with DBH ≥ 2 cm were considered for biomass carbon stock determination. Results above-ground biomass carbon stock of the three land uses showed the order: Home-garden > grazing land > cropland, but the differences in the carbon stocks were not statistically signi cant. Soil carbon stocks measured from the studied land uses at middle altitude also followed a similar trend. Similarly, differences among altitudinal gradients were not statistically signi cant. However, the variations observed re ected differences in species composition among the system as well as altitudinal gradients. Other factors such as wealth and garden size also signi cantly affected biomass C stocks per ha, where rich household holds higher above-ground biomass than medium and poor households. Overall, this re ects that rich households own a large parcel and large total number of trees, compared to that of medium and poor wealth classes. Conclusions The biomass C stocks of the tree across the three studied AF systems were found to be lower than reported for tropical forests and agro-forestry systems due to the recently agro-forestry intensi cation in the form of reduction in tree diversity and density. For enhancing their biomass carbon stocks traditional agro-forestry should be integrated in future REDD+ projects. As the biomass C stocks were more determined by socioeconomic factors such as wealth and garden size than the types of agroforestry practice and climate (elevation) future carbon management strategies should also considered them.

Evaluation of locally available fertilizer tree / shrub species in Gozamin Woreda , North Central Ethiopia

The objective of the study was to evaluate the locally available fertilizer tree/shrub species in... more The objective of the study was to evaluate the locally available fertilizer tree/shrub species in the study area. This study was conducted in two phases; in the first phase, a semi structured questionnaire was prepared to a total of 312 respondents randomly selected from the study area. In the second phase, leaf litter from the selected tree species and soil samples from both under the canopy of the selected tree species and open (controlled) area were collected for further analysis. According to response from respondents, Cordia africana was perceived to be the best by 26% of the respondents; while 39% of the respondents noted that Croton macrostachyus as the best; and 35% of the respondents acknowledge that Hygenia abyssinica is most importantly preferable for soil fertility improvement. Comparisons of potential leaf litter nutrient content (N, P, and K) of each selected tree species nutrient return from each selected species showed that leaf of C. macrostachyus had significantly ...

Contritution of Indigenous trees to soil properties: The case of scattered trees of CORDIA AFRICANA LAM. in croplands of western Oromia

Ethiopian Journal of …, 2001

... in croplands of western Oromia. Abebe Yadessa;Fisseha Itanna and Olsson,Mats( Researchers). .... more

Phyto-extraction of Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn from environmentally contaminated sites in Ethiopia, using three grass species

Phyto-extraction of Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn from environmentally contaminated sites in Ethiopia, using three grass species

Soil fertility status of seasonally closed wetland ecosystem (ondombe) in north-central Namibia

African Journal of Agricultural Research, 2017

In the Cuvelai Seasonal Wetland System (CSWS) of North-central Namibia, there are widespread mani... more In the Cuvelai Seasonal Wetland System (CSWS) of North-central Namibia, there are widespread manifestations of seasonally flooded river and seasonally closed wetland ecosystems (ponds). These wetlands are called oshana (seasonally flooded river wetland) and ondombe (seasonally closed wetland) according to the local language. This study was initiated to find out the soil fertility status of ondombes and whether they could be utilized for agricultural purposes unlike the present situation. Soil salinity and sodicity were determined to find out impact of such adverse conditions on possibility of food production. A total of 70 representative ondombes were identified from three selected villages. A total of 210 soil samples were collected from upper, middle and lower positions adjacent to ondombes, and 15 soil samples from each 5 upland fields in the three villages and 102 soil samples from different spots of the flood plain in the three oshanas for comparison. The results indicated that the mean soil pH (H 2 O) in ondombe was 6.3, the means of organic C and total N were 6.28 and 0.41 g kg-1 ; respectively, the mean of available P was 4.81 mg P kg-1. The means of exchangeable Ca, Mg, K, and Na in ondombe were 2.31, 1.44, 0.21, and 0.61 cmol c kg-1 , respectively. Most soil nutrients were higher in lower ondombe positions than on upper and middle positions. Organic C, exchangeable Mg, and clay at the ondombe soils were significantly higher than those at the croplands. The means of electrical conductivity of saturation extract (ECe) and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) in ondombe soils were 0.62 ds m-1 and 7.32, respectively; even though most of the ondombe soils did not exhibit salinity and sodicity problems. Hence, one can conclude that an ondombe soil has an appropriate condition for agriculture, and may only be prone to sodicity whenever the sodium content is high, as sometimes observed.

Comparative Study on the Effect of Applying Biogas Slurry and Inorganic Fertilizer on Soil Properties, Growth and Yield of White Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. alba)

MOESM1 of Effect of biochar derived from faecal matter on yield and nutrient content of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in two contrasting soils

Additional file 1. Surface and chemical properties of faecal matter biochar.

Microbial Biomass carbon as a sensitive indicator of soil quality changes

Ethiopian Journal of Natural Resources., 2007

(English) Soil microbial biomass is part of the active pool of soil organic matter playing a vita... more

Characteristics of soils under seasonally flooded wetlands (oshanas) in north-central Namibia

African Journal of Agricultural Research, 2016

Lowland wetlands generally have a high agricultural production potential and can be local hot-spo... more Lowland wetlands generally have a high agricultural production potential and can be local hot-spots for biodiversity. Specific seasonal wetland system is largely distributed in north-central Namibia. Seasonal wetlands consist of seasonal river wetlands (locally known as oshanas). However, studies on soil fertility, salinity and sodicity in seasonal river wetlands are still limited in this area. The objective of this study was hence to investigate the soil fertility status of seasonal wetlands and evaluate their potential for agricultural production and consider sustainability of the land use system. Soil samples were collected from 102 different spots of the flood plain within 3 major seasonal rivers, and analyzed for their physico-chemical properties and salinity and sodicity. The findings for average soil organic carbon (1.94 g kg-1) and average clay contents (102.3 g kg-1) of seasonal rivers were drastically lower than the wetland of semi-arid Africa regions (organic carbon, 5.8 g kg-1 ; clay contents, 340 g kg-1), and organic carbon and clay content significantly (p<0.05) decreased at the lower part of each seasonal river. Most of the seasonal river soil's' electrical conductivity of saturated paste extract (ECe) and the sodium adsorption ratio of the saturated paste extract (SAR) were more than 4 dS m-1 and 13, respectively. However, there were large differences in electrical conductivity of saturated paste extract (ECe) and the sodium adsorption ratio of the saturated paste extract (SAR) values among the sampling spots. These findings suggest the high agricultural importance to improve the soil organic matter and clay contents, and land selection to avoid the strongly high saline-sodic soil sites in seasonal river.

Optimized vermicomposting of a goat manure-vegetable food waste mixture for enhanced nutrient release

Scientific African, Jul 1, 2021

Abstract In arid countries, goats are the preferred small livestock and these generate dung that ... more Abstract In arid countries, goats are the preferred small livestock and these generate dung that can be used as manure to improve the soil quality. Furthermore, in arid countries like Namibia, most of the fruits and vegetables are imported, and during transportation, damage and deterioration may occur, which results in losses. This study seeks to optimize the vermicomposting of goat manure and vegetable food waste to generate a nutrient rich organic fertilizer using Eisenia fetida earthworms. The influence of various ratios of vegetable food waste (FW) and goat manure (GM) mixtures on vermi-degradation and plant nutrient release was evaluated. There were significant differences (P 50FW:50GM > control (100GM) > 25FW:75GM. Similarly, the 75FW:25GM and 50FW:50GM treatments had the highest final concentration of Olsen phosphorus of 0.98 and 0.96 g per kg of compost, respectively. Relative to the control, the treatments with 75%; 50% and 25% FW resulted in a 113%; 109% and 60% more Olsen phosphorus, respectively, after 12 weeks of vermicomposting. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) across all treatments on nitrate/nitrite concentrations following 12 weeks of vermicomposting. The changes in plant available P and N during vermicomposting were predictable using second order polynomial equations. This study concludes that a compost mixture of the ratio 75FW: 25GM or 50FW:50GM will give an optimized vermicompost for plant P nutrition after about 10 to 12 weeks of vermicomposting.

Seaweed (Gracilariopsis funicularis) biochar incorporation into goat manure-food waste vermicompost for optimized vermi-degradation and nutrient release

Research Square (Research Square), Apr 20, 2022

Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration... more Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration of macro nutrients such as (NPK) are very low. This study therefore evaluated the biochar from seaweed (Gracilariopsis funicularis) incorporated into a goat manure-food waste mixture at 0% (control); 2%; 4%; 6% and 8% on compost degradation and macro-nutrient release. After 10 weeks of vermicomposting the highest pH of 9.06 was observed within the control whilst the lowest was 8.7 in the 8% treatment. The electrical conductivity showed a positive relationship with the level of biochar incorporation with the highest of 16.5 mS/cm from the 8% treatment whilst the lowest was within the control with 6 mS/cm. There were no signi cant differences between treatments on humi cation parameters, however there were signi cant differences on the changes of C/N ratio with the nal C/N ratio of 14.4; 14.9; 16.7; 15.1 and 14.4 for the control; 2%; 4%; 6%; and 8% treatments respectively. Higher incorporation rate resulted in the higher concentration of potassium with a value of 32.3 g/kg at week 8. The nal percentage change in Olsen P was 19%: 14.2%; 7.3%; 4.1% and 3.0% for the 8%; 6%; control; 4%; and 2% treatments, respectively. An optimized level of 6 to 8 % biochar incorporation ratio can be recommended. However, incorporation of G. funicularis biochar does not seem to in uence changes in the vermi degradation e ciency, though it can signi cantly improve the macro nutrients like P, K and Mg concentrations as well as the macro element concentrations. Statement Of Novelty New vermicomposting process making use of marine biomass biochar to enhance nutrient composition whilst other researchers used terrestrial biomass. Creates new frontier in marine biomass valorisation.

The potential fertilizer value of Namibian beach-cast seaweed (Laminaria pallida and Gracilariopsis funicularis) biochar as a nutrient source in organic agriculture

Scientific African, Nov 1, 2020

Background: Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) combined with an en bloc extended right hemicolectomy is... more Background: Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) combined with an en bloc extended right hemicolectomy is required to achieve complete oncological resection of various malignancies. Information regarding the indications and outcomes of this procedure is limited. Study design: Patients requiring PD combined with extended right hemicolectomy for primary tumours from 2002 to 2008 were identified. Results: PD combined with an en bloc extended right hemicolectomy was required in 14 patients, constituting 8% of pancreaticoduodenal resections. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (8), retroperitoneal sarcoma (2) and colon cancer (2) were the main primary tumours resected. The indication for an extended right hemicolectomy was extensive tumour involvement of the transverse mesentery in seven patients. Clear tumour margins were achieved in 11 individuals. The median operating time was 10 h with intra-operative transfusions required in three patients. One or more complications were noted in eight, with delayed gastric emptying and pancreatic fistula the most common. The median length of hospital stay was 8 days. The overall 2-year survival in this series was 37%, with a median survival of 20 months in pancreatic cancer patients. Conclusions: This series suggests that PD combined with an en bloc extended right hemicolectomy is feasible and can achieve complete tumour clearance with acceptable morbidity.

Soil moisture content and maize grain yield under conventional and conservation agriculture practices - results of short term field tests in Liselo, Namibia

African Journal of Agricultural Research

This article focuses on the results from trials developed to monitor the short-term effects of co... more This article focuses on the results from trials developed to monitor the short-term effects of conventionally tilled systems versus CA on soil quality and crop productivity under conditions of the major cropping systems in central, north-central and northeastern regions of Namibia. Conventional tillage (CT), Minimum tillage (MT), Minimum tillage, mulch (MT-M), Minimum tillage, rotation (MT-R) and Minimum tillage, mulch and rotation (MT-MR) were the primary treatments tested. Significant differences (p≤0.000) among the treatments were observed in the 0-60 cm soil profiles where MT-M plots had the highest soil moisture content (39.8 mm, Standard Error of Mean 0.2815) over the study period. A significant difference (p=0.0206) in grain yield was observed in the second season with CT plots yielding the highest grain yield (3852.3 kg ha-1 , standard error of mean 240.35). Results suggest that CA has the potential to increase water conservation and contribute to reduction of the risk of crop failure. Climate change driven degradation under conventional tillage necessitate alternative sustainable tillage methods. Conservation tillage methods and conservation agricultural practices that minimize soil disturbance while maintaining soil cover need to be adopted more locally as viable alternatives to conventional tillage.

Soil moisture content and maize grain yield under conventional and conservation agriculture practices - results of short term field tests in liselo, Namibia

by Ladislaus P A N D U R A Kudumo and Fisseha Itanna

African Journal of Agricultural Research, Sep 7, 2023

This article focuses on the results from trials developed to monitor the short-term effects of ... more This article focuses on the results from trials developed to monitor the short-term effects of
conventionally tilled systems versus CA on soil quality and crop productivity under conditions of the
major cropping systems in central, north-central and north-eastern regions of Namibia. Conventional
tillage (CT), Minimum tillage (MT), Minimum tillage, mulch (MT-M), Minimum tillage, rotation (MT-R) and
Minimum tillage, mulch and rotation (MT-MR) were the primary treatments tested. Significant
differences (p≤0.000) among the treatments were observed in the 0-60 cm soil profiles where MT-M
plots had the highest soil moisture content (39.8 mm, Standard Error of Mean 0.2815) over the study
period. A significant difference (p=0.0206) in grain yield was observed in the second season with CT
plots yielding the highest grain yield (3852.3 kg ha-1
, standard error of mean 240.35). Results suggest
that CA has the potential to increase water conservation and contribute to reduction of the risk of crop
failure. Climate change driven degradation under conventional tillage necessitate alternative
sustainable tillage methods. Conservation tillage methods and conservation agricultural practices that
minimize soil disturbance while maintaining soil cover need to be adopted more locally as viable
alternatives to conventional tillage.

Key words: Conservation agriculture, conventional tillage, grain yield, soil moisture content.

Indexing soil quality: a new paradigm in soil science research

by Teklu Erkossa Jijo and Fisseha Itanna

Australian Journal of Soil Research, 2007

Soil quality indexing is a new approach in spatial and temporal evaluation of land management sys... more Soil quality indexing is a new approach in spatial and temporal evaluation of land management systems effects on soils’ capacity to function. A field experiment was conducted at Caffee Doonsa (2400 m a.s.l., 08°57′N, 39°06′E) for 6 years (1998–2003) to compare the effects of land preparation methods on soil quality (SQ) and to test the use of the Soil Management Assessment Framework (SMAF) in assessing SQ under the Ethiopian Central Highlands conditions. Four methods of land preparation [broad bed and furrows (BBF), green manure (GM), ridge and furrows (RF), and reduced tillage (RT)] were arranged in a randomised complete block design with 3 replications on permanent plots (22 m by 6 m). Physical, chemical, and biological SQ indicators were determined and scored, and a soil quality index (SQI) was developed using the SMAF procedures. Seven SQ indicators including microbial biomass carbon (MBC), bulk density, aggregate stability (AGG), soil organic carbon (Corg), pH, available water ...

Seaweed (Gracilariopsis funicularis) biochar incorporation into goat manure-food waste vermicompost for optimized vermi-degradation and nutrient release

Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration... more Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration of macro nutrients such as (NPK) are very low. This study therefore evaluated the biochar from seaweed ( Gracilariopsis funicularis ) incorporated into a goat manure-food waste mixture at 0% (control); 2%; 4%; 6% and 8% on compost degradation and macro-nutrient release. After 10 weeks of vermicomposting the highest pH of 9.06 was observed within the control whilst the lowest was 8.7 in the 8% treatment. The electrical conductivity showed a positive relationship with the level of biochar incorporation with the highest of 16.5 mS/cm from the 8% treatment whilst the lowest was within the control with 6 mS/cm. There were no significant differences between treatments on humification parameters, however there were significant differences on the changes of C/N ratio with the final C/N ratio of 14.4; 14.9; 16.7; 15.1 and 14.4 for the control; 2%; 4%; 6%; and 8% treatments respectively. Higher i...

Comparative Study on the Effect of Applying Biogas Slurry and Inorganic Fertilizer on Soil Properties, Growth and Yield of White Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. alba)

by Yalemtsehay Debebe and Fisseha Itanna

Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare, 2016

The use of locally available, nutrient rich organic sources is an effective means for improving s... more The use of locally available, nutrient rich organic sources is an effective means for improving soil fertility and increasing crop yield in view of the escalating cost of inorganic fertilizers and low fertilizer use efficiency of crops in Ethiopia. This study was conducted in Sebeta Hawas Woreda with the objective of comparing the effectiveness of bio-slurry and inorganic fertilizer on soil properties, growth and yield of white cabbage. Laboratory analysis and field experiment were done on bio-slurry in liquid and composted form to determine the nutrient content and effect of bio-slurry and inorganic fertilizer on plant height, number of leaves, head yield and nutrient content of cabbage as well as physical and chemical properties of the soil. The maximum plant height (cm) was obtained from T6 (recommended dose of inorganic fertilizer (RDIF) + biogas slurry compost (BGSC) at (8ton/ha), while the lowest plant height (cm) was recorded in T1 (control). Cabbage plants treated with T7...

Seaweed (Gracilariopsis funicularis) biochar incorporation into a goat manure-food waste vermicompost for optimized vermi-degradation and nutrient release

Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration... more Vermicomposts are organic fertilizer sources that are being promoted, however their concentration of macro nutrients such as (NPK) are very low. This study therefore evaluated the biochar from seaweed ( Gracilariopsis funicularis ) incorporated into a goat manure-food waste mixture at 0% (control); 2%; 4%; 6% and 8% on compost degradation and macro-nutrient release. After 10 weeks of vermicomposting the highest pH of 9.06 was observed within the control whilst the lowest was 8.7 in the 8% treatment. The electrical conductivity showed a positive relationship with the level of biochar incorporation with the highest of 16.5 mS/cm from the 8% treatment whilst the lowest was within the control with 6 mS/cm. There were no significant differences between treatments on humification parameters, however there were significant differences on the changes of C/N ratio with the final C/N ratio of 14.4; 14.9; 16.7; 15.1 and 14.4 for the control; 2%; 4%; 6%; and 8% treatments respectively. Higher i...

Variation in soil properties under different land use types managed by smallholder farmers along the toposequence in southern Ethiopia

Geoderma, 2017

Understanding soil properties under different land use types along toposequences is vital in dete... more Understanding soil properties under different land use types along toposequences is vital in determining the types of soil management practices that could be implemented by smallholder farmers for improving the soil health as well as soil productivity. It is also important in addressing the issues of agricultural sustainability. With the objectives of investigating variation in soil properties under different land use types managed by smallholder farmers along the toposequences, three land use types: agroforestry land (AG), cultivated land (CL) and grazing land (GL) under three slope categories (upper, middle and lower slope) were selected in southern Ethiopia, Deko watershed. A total of 108 composite soil samples [3 treatments (land use types) − 3 replications − 3 slope categories (upper, middle and lower) − 4 soil depth layers: 0-20 cm, 20-40 cm, 40-60 cm and N60 cm] were collected for laboratory analyses. In addition, undisturbed soil samples were taken using core sampler from each soil depth for the determination of soil bulk density. To infer the biological properties of the soils naked eye soil macro-fauna (NEMF) was counted. The results showed that among the soil properties sand (p b 0.001), clay (p = 0.002), soil bulk density (p b 0.001), soil reactio (pH, p b 0.001), Electrical conductivity (EC, p b 0.001), Soil organic carbon (SOC %, p b 0.001), Total nitrogen (TN %, p = 0.001) and NEMF (p b 0.001) have shown a significant variation among the land use types while sand (p = 0.027), silt (p = 0.001), clay (p b 0.001), SOC (p b 0.001) and TN (p = 0.002) exhibiting significant variation among the slope categories. Similarly, variation of soil bulk density (p b 0.001), soil pH (p b 0.001), SOC (p b 0.001), TN (p = 0.002) and NNEMF (p b 0.001) were also statistically significant along the soil depth. Clay was the dominant soil textural fraction showing an increasing trend along the toposequence. Agroforestry land use type has the higher SOC, TN, pH values and EC while cultivated land use type having relatively low amount of SOC, TN, pH and EC. The lower values on cultivated land use types were due to the effects of continuous tillage practices by the smallholder farmers in the area. Slope had minimum effect on soil pH, EC, soil bulk density and the number of observable macro-faunas in the area. Moreover, SOC and TN were increased down the slope on the cultivated land use types of the area. The role of erosion is magnificent in removing SOC and TN from upper slope to lower slope as the area is more vulnerable to erosion due rugged topography. Thus, applying soil and water conservation measures on cultivated land use types play a vital role in minimizing the removal of soils down the slope.

Tree Biomass Carbon in different Land Use Types Managed by Smallholder Farmers Along Altitudinal Gradient in Central Highlands of Ethiopia

Background and Aims Biomass carbon (C) stocks of trees across three common traditional agroforest... more Background and Aims Biomass carbon (C) stocks of trees across three common traditional agroforestry practices (i.e. home-garden, farmland, and grazing land) and along altitudinal gradients (i.e. upper, middle and lower) in southern Ethiopia are presented and evaluated. These traditional AF systems are characterized by a high proportion and diversity of trees hence can play a remarkable role in climate change adaptation and mitigation. Methods Data were collected from a total of 89 plots: 41 home-gardens, 29 croplands, and 19 grazing lands using total count and Y-frame transect sampling methods. Above-and belowground biomass of trees were calculated using allometric equations developed somewhere else but proven for application in agroforestry systems. Trees with DBH ≥ 2 cm were considered for biomass carbon stock determination. Results above-ground biomass carbon stock of the three land uses showed the order: Home-garden > grazing land > cropland, but the differences in the carbon stocks were not statistically signi cant. Soil carbon stocks measured from the studied land uses at middle altitude also followed a similar trend. Similarly, differences among altitudinal gradients were not statistically signi cant. However, the variations observed re ected differences in species composition among the system as well as altitudinal gradients. Other factors such as wealth and garden size also signi cantly affected biomass C stocks per ha, where rich household holds higher above-ground biomass than medium and poor households. Overall, this re ects that rich households own a large parcel and large total number of trees, compared to that of medium and poor wealth classes. Conclusions The biomass C stocks of the tree across the three studied AF systems were found to be lower than reported for tropical forests and agro-forestry systems due to the recently agro-forestry intensi cation in the form of reduction in tree diversity and density. For enhancing their biomass carbon stocks traditional agro-forestry should be integrated in future REDD+ projects. As the biomass C stocks were more determined by socioeconomic factors such as wealth and garden size than the types of agroforestry practice and climate (elevation) future carbon management strategies should also considered them.

Evaluation of locally available fertilizer tree / shrub species in Gozamin Woreda , North Central Ethiopia

The objective of the study was to evaluate the locally available fertilizer tree/shrub species in... more The objective of the study was to evaluate the locally available fertilizer tree/shrub species in the study area. This study was conducted in two phases; in the first phase, a semi structured questionnaire was prepared to a total of 312 respondents randomly selected from the study area. In the second phase, leaf litter from the selected tree species and soil samples from both under the canopy of the selected tree species and open (controlled) area were collected for further analysis. According to response from respondents, Cordia africana was perceived to be the best by 26% of the respondents; while 39% of the respondents noted that Croton macrostachyus as the best; and 35% of the respondents acknowledge that Hygenia abyssinica is most importantly preferable for soil fertility improvement. Comparisons of potential leaf litter nutrient content (N, P, and K) of each selected tree species nutrient return from each selected species showed that leaf of C. macrostachyus had significantly ...

Contritution of Indigenous trees to soil properties: The case of scattered trees of CORDIA AFRICANA LAM. in croplands of western Oromia

Ethiopian Journal of …, 2001

... in croplands of western Oromia. Abebe Yadessa;Fisseha Itanna and Olsson,Mats( Researchers). .... more

Phyto-extraction of Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn from environmentally contaminated sites in Ethiopia, using three grass species

Phyto-extraction of Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn from environmentally contaminated sites in Ethiopia, using three grass species

Soil fertility status of seasonally closed wetland ecosystem (ondombe) in north-central Namibia

African Journal of Agricultural Research, 2017

In the Cuvelai Seasonal Wetland System (CSWS) of North-central Namibia, there are widespread mani... more In the Cuvelai Seasonal Wetland System (CSWS) of North-central Namibia, there are widespread manifestations of seasonally flooded river and seasonally closed wetland ecosystems (ponds). These wetlands are called oshana (seasonally flooded river wetland) and ondombe (seasonally closed wetland) according to the local language. This study was initiated to find out the soil fertility status of ondombes and whether they could be utilized for agricultural purposes unlike the present situation. Soil salinity and sodicity were determined to find out impact of such adverse conditions on possibility of food production. A total of 70 representative ondombes were identified from three selected villages. A total of 210 soil samples were collected from upper, middle and lower positions adjacent to ondombes, and 15 soil samples from each 5 upland fields in the three villages and 102 soil samples from different spots of the flood plain in the three oshanas for comparison. The results indicated that the mean soil pH (H 2 O) in ondombe was 6.3, the means of organic C and total N were 6.28 and 0.41 g kg-1 ; respectively, the mean of available P was 4.81 mg P kg-1. The means of exchangeable Ca, Mg, K, and Na in ondombe were 2.31, 1.44, 0.21, and 0.61 cmol c kg-1 , respectively. Most soil nutrients were higher in lower ondombe positions than on upper and middle positions. Organic C, exchangeable Mg, and clay at the ondombe soils were significantly higher than those at the croplands. The means of electrical conductivity of saturation extract (ECe) and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) in ondombe soils were 0.62 ds m-1 and 7.32, respectively; even though most of the ondombe soils did not exhibit salinity and sodicity problems. Hence, one can conclude that an ondombe soil has an appropriate condition for agriculture, and may only be prone to sodicity whenever the sodium content is high, as sometimes observed.

Comparative Study on the Effect of Applying Biogas Slurry and Inorganic Fertilizer on Soil Properties, Growth and Yield of White Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. alba)

MOESM1 of Effect of biochar derived from faecal matter on yield and nutrient content of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in two contrasting soils

Additional file 1. Surface and chemical properties of faecal matter biochar.