- Volume 13, Number 1 (2025)
SOIL PROPERTY COMPARISON BETWEEN ALLOPHANIC AND NON-ALLOPHANIC HORIZONS IN VOLCANIC ASH SOILS OF KYUSHU, JAPAN
Hiroshi Sato, Akiko Tanaka, Takeshi Nakamura
Andosols, volcanic ash-derived soils, play a vital role in upland farming in Japan, with distinct categorization into allophanic and non-allophanic types. Allophanic Andosols, constituting 69.9% of the total Andosol land area in Japan, are prevalent in regions with significant Holocene tephra deposition. In contrast, non-allophanic Andosols, accounting for 30.1% of the total Andosol area, occur in areas with minor tephra deposition. Both categories exhibit distinctive characteristics such as a thick black A-horizon, high phosphate fixation, superior water retention, and low bulk density. Despite similarities in morphology, chemistry, and physical attributes, non-allophanic Andosols possess unique features due to the presence of...
FROM NETS TO SEAWEED: EXPLORING ALTERNATIVE LIVELIHOOD STRATEGIES IN COASTAL KENYA
Benson Omondi Okinyi, Phanuel Owiti
The coastal marine fishing communities of Kenya have historically relied on fishing as their primary source of income, supporting livelihoods for generations. However, recent declines in fish catches have raised concerns, attributed to various factors including mangrove degradation and destructive fishing practices. This study explores the importance of diversifying livelihoods within these fishing communities to enhance resilience and economic security. Household diversification, characterized by the pursuit of new income sources while maintaining existing ones, is considered vital for household economic stability. This diversification concept is particularly relevant in the context of natural resource governance and has implications for fisheries management...
EVALUATING THE EFFECTS OF SULFUR POWDER ON SOIL CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURE IN THE JORDAN VALLEY
Ahmad Hassan Al-Mansoori, Sara Mohamed Al-Khalifa
The Jordan Valley, a unique geographic region in Jordan, boasts exceptional agricultural potential due to its distinctive soil and environmental conditions. It plays a pivotal role in the country's food production, providing a wide range of agricultural products, including grains, vegetables, and fruits. Additionally, the Jordan Valley serves as a vital source of agricultural exports to international markets, contributing significantly to the nation's food security and economic growth. However, the Jordan Valley faces formidable challenges, primarily water scarcity and land management issues, which demand innovative solutions for sustainable agricultural development. This study delves into the utilization of modern irrigation techniques...
ASSESSING METHANE EMISSIONS IN MEDITERRANEAN GOAT AND SHEEP FARMING
María José Pérez, Antonio López Rodríguez
Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions significantly impact climate change, with livestock contributing a substantial share. Livestock emissions, including methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2), constitute 14.5% of all human-induced GHG emissions. Small ruminants, such as sheep and goats, contribute approximately 6.7% to total livestock emissions. Accurate estimation of GHG emissions is crucial for inventory purposes and emission reduction strategies. Methane conversion rate (Ym) plays a pivotal role in quantifying enteric CH4 emissions, representing the proportion of the animal's gross energy intake converted to CH4 energy. This study emphasizes the significance of Ym and its continuous revision to ensure...