Asian Journal of Biology

Preliminary Observations on Muscle Calcium Variations in Clarias batrachus Exposed to Sago Industry Effluent: A Descriptive Study

F. Ramesh, A. Gracelyn Portia — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Industrial wastewater may alter the aquatic environment and influence physiological measurements in freshwater fish. This study descriptively assessed muscle-extract calcium values in the freshwater catfish Clarias batrachus following exposure to treated sago-industry effluent. Fish obtained from a supplier in Bangalore, India, were acclimatised for at least 15 days. Groups were subsequently maintained for 28 days in effluent-free water (control) or media containing 25%, 50%, or 75% treated effluent, with ten fish in each 20-L trough. Muscle samples collected after exposure were homogenised, centrifuged, and analysed for calcium using the o-cresolphthalein complexone colourimetric method. The reported calcium values were 4.4 mg% in the control and 5.5, 7.5, and 9.3 mg% at 25%, 50%, and 75% effluent, respectively. These differences represented descriptive increases of 25.0%, 70.5%, and 111.4% relative to the control. The reported values therefore increased progressively across the tested effluent concentrations. However, each concentration was represented by a single trough, and individual measurements, variability estimates, and independent experimental replicates were unavailable. Consequently, statistical significance and causation cannot be established. Furthermore, the analytical description does not provide sufficient information to interpret the reported units as calcium per unit mass of muscle. The findings identify a descriptive pattern requiring confirmation through independently replicated experiments, standardised tissue preparation, clearly defined reporting units, and appropriate statistical analysis.

Buck Semen Cryobiology: Integrating Biochemical, Hormonal and Functional Evidence

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Buck semen cryopreservation supports genetic exchange, conservation and artificial insemination, but successful storage cannot be inferred from post-thaw motility alone. Goat spermatozoa encounter interacting osmotic, membrane, metabolic and oxidative stresses during dilution, cooling, freezing and thawing. The biochemical composition of the ejaculate, endocrine and seasonal conditions of collection, and the functional demands imposed by insemination further complicate interpretation. This critical narrative review integrates foundational and contemporary evidence on these interdependent processes, drawing on goat-specific experiments, endocrine observations, molecular profiling and field fertility studies. Particular attention is given to seminal-plasma phospholipase interactions with lipid-containing extenders, the conditional effects of cholesterol loading and non-permeating sugars, the promise and limitations of antioxidant and cell-death-targeted interventions, and the distinction between endocrine correlates and actionable predictors of freezability. Recent lipidomic and metabolomic studies support a richer account of sperm membrane vulnerability but remain constrained by small donor samples, outcome-defined groups, batch effects and insufficient external validation. Controlled extender comparisons suggest that several animal- and plant-derived formulations can preserve laboratory functions, although equivalence in motility, membrane integrity or heterologous fertilisation does not ensure equivalent pregnancy outcomes. Evidence from artificial insemination studies remains considerably thinner than the literature on post-thaw assays. A key synthesis is that cryoresistance is an emergent property of the donor, seminal environment, processing sequence and measurement system rather than a fixed characteristic of a single extender ingredient. Progress requires paired-ejaculate factorial designs, harmonised cryobiological reporting, prospective endocrine and molecular validation, and adequately powered fertility trials that account for insemination route and female-side variation. Biochemical sophistication should therefore be judged by reproductive performance and reproducibility, not by the proliferation of laboratory biomarkers.

The Indian Grey Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes): Critical Perspectives on Ecology, Genetics and Conservation

Vinayak Bhople, Kishor Patil, Nandkishor Warghat, Ashwin Atkulwar — Fri, 06 Nov 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The Indian grey wolf, conventionally identified as Canis lupus pallipes, occupies a conservation paradox: its evolutionary distinctiveness is increasingly well established, yet its ecological requirements, demographic trajectory and management needs remain incompletely resolved. This critical narrative review integrates molecular phylogenetics, population genetics, distribution modelling, field ecology, human–wildlife research and conservation assessments concerning the peninsular Indian wolf and its wider South Asian contact zones. Evidence was selected through targeted searches of accessible scholarly indexes, primary publications, regional sources and authoritative conservation assessments, with attention to research published up to 2 September 2026. Mitochondrial and recombination-aware nuclear analyses consistently indicate that Indian wolves retain deeply divergent ancestry, but evolutionary lineages, formal species rank and geographically bounded management units are not interchangeable concepts. National habitat models identify extensive potentially suitable open landscapes and suggest a relatively small population; neither habitat suitability nor model-derived population totals, however, constitutes a direct census or demonstrates demographic connectivity. Local studies reveal marked ecological flexibility in prey use, den placement and responses to disturbance, alongside strong dependence on secure breeding sites embedded in pastoral and agricultural landscapes. Evidence for wolf–dog hybridisation is direct but geographically sparse, whereas pathogen transmission, road effects and the effectiveness of proposed interventions remain insufficiently quantified for this lineage. Recent social research further challenges the assumption that pastoral communities have uniformly negative attitudes towards wolves. The synthesis argues for conservation organised around three interacting scales: genetically informed evolutionary lineage protection, demographically verified breeding landscapes and negotiated coexistence in shared land-use matrices. Immediate priorities are independent population monitoring, reproductive-survival estimation, replicated genomic sampling, and evaluation of community-led protection and disease-risk mitigation. The strongest defensible conclusion is that conserving the Indian wolf requires safeguarding both its distinctive ancestry and the open, socially governed landscapes in which recruitment occurs.

Ecological Catastrophe Unveiled: A Comprehensive Review of the Impacts of Oil Spills on Marine Ecosystems

Anjali Sankhla, Rajesh Yadav, Hansa Gupta — Mon, 09 Nov 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Oil spills are among the most serious forms of marine pollution and result from offshore oil exploration, tanker transport and other shipping activities. This review synthesises the current literature on the biological impacts of oil spills across trophic levels, from primary producers, corals and invertebrates to fishes, amphibians, reptiles, seabirds and marine mammals. Immediate impacts include mass mortality and the destruction of habitats and food webs, whereas long-term impacts include reproductive failure, genotoxic damage and ecosystem recovery that can take many years, as shown by the Exxon Valdez, Deepwater Horizon, Prestige and Hebei Spirit spills, among others. Recovery varies among species and habitats, and slow recovery is most often reported for cold-water corals, intertidal molluscs and Arctic and sub-Arctic coastal zones. Coastal communities and clean-up workers can also be affected physiologically and genotoxically. Approaches to oil spill detection and response, including remote sensing, deep-learning-based slick detection, the main response methods (physical recovery, chemical dispersants, in-situ burning and bioremediation) and phytoremediation, are briefly discussed. The review highlights knowledge gaps, particularly the need for long-term, multi-species monitoring data and for better information on sublethal effects, and emphasises the need for a coherent approach to the prevention, mitigation and remediation of damage caused by the growing international marine oil trade.

Effect of Artemisia annua Extracts on Lettuce Cultivation in Saïoua, Ivory Coast

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Lettuce production in Saïoua is constrained by pest pressure and frequent dependence on synthetic inputs.

Aims: This study evaluated the effect of Artemisia annua L. extracts on the growth and yield of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in Saïoua, with the aim of proposing a sustainable agroecological alternative to synthetic chemical pesticides.

Study Design: The trial was established on 100 m² using a Fisher block design with 15 experimental units (12 plants per unit). Five treatments, each replicated three times, were compared: untreated control (Tm), aqueous extract of Artemisia annua (Te), Artemisia powder (Po), Artemisia residues (Re), and the chemical insecticide TOP LAMBDA 25 EC (So).

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Saïoua (Châteaux neighbourhood), Ivory Coast. The nursery phase lasted 21 days, followed by field monitoring until harvest (30 days).

Methodology: The plants were transplanted at a spacing of 40 cm × 40 cm. Agronomic parameters (number of leaves, height, and spread) and production parameters (yield) were measured and then analysed using ANOVA and the Newman-Keuls and Tukey tests (p < 0.05) in the R software package.

Results: The aqueous extract produced the highest observed agronomic values, with 5.12 ± 1.54 leaves/plant, a height of 7.65 cm, and a spread of 9.84 ± 2.85 cm, compared with 2.24 leaves, 3.74 cm, and 5.08 cm for the control. In terms of yield, the aqueous extract recorded the highest observed value (60 g/m²), compared with the chemical insecticide (50 g/m²) and the control (20 g/m²). Strong positive correlations (R = 0.9580–0.9927) were observed among the growth variables.

Conclusion: The aqueous extract of Artemisia annua combines biopesticidal and biofertilising properties that stimulate lettuce growth. It represents an effective and environmentally friendly organic alternative for vegetable growers in Saïoua.

Assessment of the Quality of Raw Cashew Nuts Stored in Bobo-Dioulasso City, Burkina Faso

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Since 2024, Burkina Faso has received repeated notifications concerning insect pests detected in international consignments of raw cashew nuts, highlighting the need for effective post-harvest management. This study assessed the quality-related storage conditions of raw cashew nuts in Bobo-Dioulasso. A socioeconomic survey involved 79 stakeholders in the cashew sector, and storage conditions were evaluated through inspections of 36 warehouses. Insect sampling and laboratory identification were conducted to characterise pests associated with stored nuts. Among exporters, 83.33% applied drying and manual sorting before storage, while 11.11% used fumigation and 47.22% used recycled bags. Warehouse inspections showed that 92% of bags were stacked without adequate spacing, 78% were stored directly on the floor, and 69% of warehouses had inadequate ventilation. Nine insect pest species were identified: Ephestia cautella, Carpophilus mutilatus, Lasioderma serricorne, Tribolium castaneum, Oryzaephilus mercator, Sitophilus zeamais, Ahasverus advena, and Cryptolestes ferrugineus, as well as Drasterius sp. Ephestia cautella was the most abundant species in several warehouses. Overall, the findings indicate weaknesses in storage practices and warehouse conditions that may compromise the quality of raw cashew nuts. Improved warehouse hygiene, ventilation, bag management, spacing, and use of pallets are therefore important for maintaining stored nut quality.

Genetic Diversity and Strong Population Structure of Tallow Tree (Pentadesma butyracea) in Natural Stands of Bassila, Benin: Insights from Microsatellite Markers

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The main objective of this study was to assess whether genetic diversity within individual mother trees influences allelic diversity within Pentadesma butyracea stands. Eight microsatellite markers were assessed in 43 individuals from 15 mother trees belonging to three natural stands of Pentadesma butyracea (Manigri, Bakabaka and Pénessoulou). The results reveal moderate genetic diversity within stands and marked differentiation among them. Four loci (50%) were polymorphic in Manigri, and five (62.5%) in Bakabaka and Pénessoulou. Pent18 and Pent24 were the most discriminating markers (PIC up to 0.720). The mean number of alleles per locus ranged from 2.6 to 3, and the Shannon index remained below 1 (0.144–0.294). Expected heterozygosity was similar in Manigri (He = 0.477) and Bakabaka (0.488), and lower in Pénessoulou (0.403), where a heterozygote deficit was observed (Ho = 0.389; FIS = 0.035), whereas an excess was observed in Manigri (FIS = −0.209). Genetic distances among individuals from the same mother tree were generally low (0 to 0.914). Genetic differentiation was very high (FST = 0.619 to 0.685). Among-stand variability (DST = 54.4%) exceeded within-stand variability (He = 46%). Gene flow was very low (Nm = 0.076–0.101). Principal coordinate analysis (96.22%) distinguished two gene pools comprising individuals from all populations. UPGMA clustering of the 43 individuals defined three groups, one of which comprised 83% of individuals, originating from several mother trees and stands, some with zero genetic distance. These results provide key molecular tools and crucial genetic insights to optimize mother tree selection, guide reforestation programs, and prioritize in situ conservation of unique and fragmented gene pools of Pentadesma butyracea.

Phytochemical Characterization and Concentration-dependent Antimicrobial Activity of Kaempferia galanga L. Rhizome Essential Oil

Marufa Ibnat, Kuno Chuzho — Fri, 16 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Kaempferia galanga L. (Zingiberaceae) is an aromatic rhizomatous medicinal plant whose essential oil is characterised by marked geographical and chemotypic variation. The present study characterised the rhizome essential oil of K. galanga collected from Marngar, Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya, northeastern India, and evaluated its in vitro antimicrobial activity against selected bacterial and fungal microorganisms. Hydrodistillation of 1 kg fresh rhizomes yielded approximately 4 g of pale-yellow essential oil, corresponding to 0.40% (w/w) on a fresh-weight basis. GC-MS analysis was performed on a Thermo Scientific ISQ-7000 system. The instrument report recorded a 41.99-min run, 1.00 µL injection volume, and 29 integrated chromatographic peaks accounting for 100% of total peak area. Library searching produced strong matches for ethyl p-methoxycinnamate (EPMC) at 12.541 min (22.36%; SI/RSI 908/930) and 13.891 min (5.19%; SI/RSI 942/946). Other abundant tentative first-hit assignments included p-mentha-1(7),8-dien-2-ol (13.56%), 1-octadecanesulphonyl chloride (8.87%), epicurzerenone (7.44%), an oxygenated sesquiterpenoid-like furanone (6.91%), camphene (6.80%), α-terpineol (6.58%) and β-acorenol (6.05%). Because several assignments showed only moderate spectral similarity or were chemically unusual, all library-based identities are treated as tentative pending retention-index and authentic-standard confirmation. The essential oil showed a clear concentration-dependent inhibitory response against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Aspergillus fumigatus and Nigrospora sphaerica. At 1000 µg mL⁻¹, inhibition ranged from 89.70 ± 0.92% for P. aeruginosa to 97.30 ± 0.58% for A. fumigatus. One-way ANOVA showed a significant effect of concentration for every microorganism (P<0.001), while PCA indicated that the common concentration gradient accounted for most multivariate variation (PC1=99.65%). The findings establish a location-specific chemical and antimicrobial profile for K. galanga from Meghalaya and support further confirmation of its major volatile constituents and standardised antimicrobial testing.

Exploration of Latent Fingerprint Recovery from Various Household Items and its Implication in Forensic Investigation

Loveday Ese Oghenemavwe, Promise Iburu Sunday, Kennedy Iregbeyanse Ebhojaye — Fri, 23 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aims: This study explored and compared the recovery of latent fingerprints from selected household surfaces using charcoal powder dusting and ninhydrin application immediately and at 24-hour and 5-day post-deposition intervals.

Study Design: An experimental, laboratory-based design with a descriptive analytical approach was employed.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, with the laboratory component carried out in the Department of Anatomy and affiliated forensic research facilities at the University of Port Harcourt.

Methodology: Three adult participants provided thumb, index and middle finger impressions on glass, stainless-steel spoons, painted wood and A4 paper. Separate samples were developed immediately or after ageing for 24 hours or 5 days using charcoal powder or ninhydrin. Recovered impressions were photographed and compared with corresponding control fingerprints using a four-level descriptive clarity scheme: Code 0, no visible ridge detail; Code 1, recognisable ridge pattern; Code 2, recognisable ridge pattern and delta; and Code 3, recognisable ridge pattern, delta and core. For each surface × method × age condition, the clearest recovered impression among the available donor impressions was selected for comparative scoring.

Results: Charcoal powder demonstrated broader surface applicability, producing accepted ridge-pattern recovery on glass, spoons/metal and paper, although wood produced no accepted ridge detail. Ninhydrin produced no accepted ridge detail on glass, spoons/metal or wood, but yielded the highest landmark resolution on paper at the immediate interval, where the ridge pattern, delta and core were recognisable (Code 3). The effect of print age varied by surface and development method. Notably, spoon embossing produced structures that could mimic fingerprint ridges and required full-resolution verification.

Conclusion: Latent fingerprint recovery under the tested conditions was surface- and technique-dependent. Charcoal powder offered wider practical applicability, while ninhydrin produced the highest individual landmark resolution on paper at the immediate interval. The development technique should therefore be selected according to substrate characteristics, and recovered impressions should be examined at full resolution before being considered suitable for forensic comparison.

Osteometric Morphological Study of Cervical Vertebrae and Apparent Sex-based Trends in Tripureswari Ducks of Tripura, India

Sukanta Das — Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The cervical skeleton provides the structural basis for avian neck mobility and extreme flexibility, compensating for the immobility of the eyes. However, the cervical osteology of the indigenous Tripureswari duck, a distinct breed from Tripura in north-eastern India, has not been described.

Objective: To document the number, size and proportions of cervical vertebrae in adult Tripureswari ducks and to examine patterns in linear measurements and ratios of typical cervical vertebrae in relation to sex, where present.

Methods: Head and neck specimens from four adult males and four adult females (eight birds in total), collected from a slaughterhouse, were macerated and examined. Five linear measurements were recorded for each vertebra: vertebral height (VH), zygapophyseal width (ZW), centrum width (CW), centrum height (CH) and centrum length (CL). Ratios were derived from these measurements. The surface areas of the typical cervical vertebra (C10), including the butterfly-shaped dorsal, shield-shaped ventral, H-shaped articular and saddle-shaped articular surfaces, were estimated from photographs using ImageJ. Data are expressed as mean ± standard error.

Results: The craniocaudal patterns of cervical vertebral measurements were broadly similar in both sexes of Tripureswari ducks. Fourteen cervical vertebrae were identified. ZW and CW generally increased caudally; CH decreased to a minimum at C8 and subsequently increased in a stepwise manner; CL peaked at C8–C9, apart from the axis; and VH showed peaks at C3 and C12. Mean measurements were generally greater in males than in females: CH (+10.7%), CL (+7.6%), ZW (+6.1%), CW (+6.1%) and VH (+3.3%), with exceptions at individual vertebral levels (including CW at C14). CH and CL were greater in males at all 14 vertebral levels. Males had a higher CH/CW ratio (0.984 ± 0.006 versus 0.946 ± 0.009) and a lower VH/CL ratio (0.760 ± 0.005 versus 0.788 ± 0.005). At C10, dorsal and ventral surface areas were greater in males, whereas saddle-shaped articular surface areas were comparable between sexes.

Conclusion: The cervical osteometric profile of the Tripureswari duck broadly follows the cranial, middle and caudal organisation described in birds. Apparent sex-related trends were observed in centrum length and height and in the large non-articular surfaces, whereas the articular saddle area was comparatively similar. Given the small sample (n = 8), these findings should be regarded as preliminary baseline observations rather than statistically validated sex differences.

Natural Regeneration Dynamics of Borassus aethiopum Mart. (Arecaceae) in the Palm Groves of Toumodi, Central Côte d’Ivoire

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Natural regeneration is central to understanding the persistence of Borassus aethiopum Mart. stands exposed to local resource use in central Côte d’Ivoire. This study characterised developmental stages and examined population structure in the palm groves of Adaou, Loukou-Yaokro and Blê in the Toumodi department during 2020–2021. Floristic and dendrometric observations were made in ten 50 × 50 m plots. A total of 1,750 individuals were inventoried, comprising 370 at Adaou, 670 at Loukou-Yaokro and 710 at Blê. Developmental-stage densities, sex ratios, basal area, the Importance Value Index (IVI), diameter distributions and biovolume were assessed. Adult sex ratios were below unity at all sites, with values of 0.55 at Adaou, 0.50 at Loukou-Yaokro and 0.00 at Blê, indicating a predominance of individuals classified as female. Patterns differed among sites and developmental stages. At Adaou, stage 4 recorded the highest IVI (52.73%), whereas stage 2 had the highest values at Loukou-Yaokro (54.68%) and Blê (85.71%). Stage 4 also recorded the greatest biovolume at all sites, ranging from 10.51 to 12.66 m³. Diameter distributions indicated differences in the representation of small, intermediate and large individuals among the palm groves. The findings demonstrate variation in stand structure across the study area and provide a descriptive basis for further investigation of recruitment, growth and the effects of exploitation on natural regeneration.

Evaluation of the Therapeutic Potential of Anthocleista djalonensis Stem Bark Aqueous Extract against Mercury (II) Chloride-Induced Splenic Toxicity in Adult Wistar Rats

Onyeije Benson Peter, Innih Orlu Sivanus — Tue, 27 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Mercury is a potent environmental toxin and a major global health concern, posing serious risks to humans and animals. This study examined the possible protective effects of Anthocleista djalonensis extract on the spleens of adult Wistar rats exposed to mercuric chloride. Anthocleista djalonensis, which is traditionally used in medicine, may contain compounds that prevent damage caused by mercuric chloride to vital organs such as the spleen. Following a two-week acclimatisation period, thirty-six (36) adult male rats were divided into six groups (six rats per group) and administered 2 mg/kg of mercuric chloride and varying doses of Anthocleista djalonensis extract, either separately or in combination, for 28 days. On day 29, the rats were sacrificed, and their spleens were carefully harvested, weighed and fixed in 10% formal saline for histological examination. The experiment evaluated changes in body weight, relative spleen weight and splenic cytoarchitectural integrity. The results showed that rats exposed to mercuric chloride alone (Group B) experienced significant weight loss, whereas administration of Anthocleista djalonensis extract at different doses prevented considerable changes in body weight. No appreciable differences in spleen weight were observed among the groups. Histopathological analysis revealed dose-dependent alterations in splenic tissue. The control group exhibited normal splenic architecture, with clearly defined red pulp, white pulp and sinuses, indicating a healthy immune microenvironment. Rats treated with HgCl₂ alone demonstrated follicular activation and reduced red cell sequestration. However, rats treated with Anthocleista djalonensis extract alone demonstrated enhanced red cell sequestration, follicular activation and sinus histiocyte activation, whereas varying levels of protection were observed when Anthocleista djalonensis extract and mercury(II) chloride were administered together. The study suggests that, whereas HgCl₂ exposure induces immunotoxicity and alters splenic function, Anthocleista djalonensis extract may exert protective effects by modulating immune responses and enhancing red cell sequestration.

Physicochemical, Phytochemical, Antioxidant and Microbiological Characterization of a Traditional Herbal Tea Used in the Ivorian Pharmacopoeia

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Traditional liquid herbal teas are widely used in Côte d’Ivoire, yet integrated data on their composition and microbiological quality remain limited. This study characterised a ready-to-use herbal tea marketed by a traditional practitioner using physicochemical, phytochemical, antioxidant and microbiological analyses. The preparation was described as an aqueous decoction of medicinal plant bark and spices. Dry matter, moisture, pH, titratable acidity, vitamin C and reducing sugars were determined using the methods described in the manuscript. Total polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins were quantified, and in vitro antioxidant capacity was assessed using the ABTS radical assay. Microbiological examination included mesophilic aerobic bacteria, total and thermotolerant coliforms, yeasts and moulds, together with screening for Salmonella spp. The tea had a dry matter content of 0.90 ± 0.02% and a pH of 4.27 ± 0.05. Total polyphenols and tannins were reported as 63.33 ± 0.23 mg gallic acid equivalents/g dry extract and 18.26 ± 0.31 mg tannic acid equivalents/g dry extract, respectively. Antioxidant capacity was 11.37 ± 0.002 µmol Trolox equivalents/L. Counts of the microorganisms examined were comparatively low against the reference limits presented by the authors, and Salmonella spp. were not detected. These observations characterise the sampled beverage and provide a basis for further assessment of product consistency and preservation. The analytical findings alone do not establish clinical effectiveness or long-term microbiological stability.

Ecological Uses of the Flora in the Beach Forests of Mapanas, Northern Samar, Philippines

Neschelle B. Tejano , Abel Alejandro U. Flores, Jr. — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Beach forests contribute to coastal vegetation cover and provide resources used by local communities. This study focused on an inventory of plant species composition in the beach forests of Mapanas, Northern Samar. Specifically, it aimed to: (1) identify the plant species in the beach forests; (2) assess their ecological uses; (3) document anthropogenic activities affecting beach-forest species; and (4) measure prevailing environmental factors, including air temperature, soil temperature, average wind velocity, rainfall intensity and sunlight intensity. Across the two sampling locations, Barangays Burgos and Magtaon, 85 plant species were collected and documented. These included Fabaceae (9 species), Asteraceae (6 species), Rubiaceae (4 species), Arecaceae, Convolvulaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Malvaceae, Poaceae, Verbenaceae and Zingiberaceae (3 species each), and Cyperaceae, Menispermaceae, Moraceae, Nephrolepidaceae and Orchidaceae (2 species each); the remaining families were each represented by one species. Interview findings described the different ways in which residents rely on beach forests for their personal needs, as well as activities associated with deforestation and habitat disturbance. Measurements of environmental conditions showed some departures from the reported reference conditions, potentially reflecting the climate prevailing during sampling. Periodic measurements may help monitor environmental conditions relevant to these forests. The findings suggest that local government units should enforce environmental regulations and monitor the status of beach forests to support sustainable management and conservation.

Health Status and Mortality Dynamics of an Arbor Broiler Flock on a Peri-urban Semi-industrial Farm in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire

Konan Alexis Oussou, Kouamé Jean Paul Angui, Boye Donatien Amanidja — Tue, 03 Nov 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aims: This study described the health status and temporal mortality distribution of an Arbor broiler flock reared on a semi-industrial farm near Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, and examined their relationships with prophylactic interventions and growth performance.

Study Design: A descriptive longitudinal observational study, without replication or a control group.

Place and Duration of Study: The flock was monitored in Port-Bouët from 5 December 2008 to 23 January 2009 (50 days).

Methodology: A total of 510 days-old chicks were followed throughout the rearing cycle. Deaths and health interventions were recorded daily, while 26 randomly selected birds were weighed weekly. Mortality, average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were descriptively assessed alongside hatchery reference values.

Results: Twenty-five deaths occurred (4.90% cumulative mortality), including 12 during the starter phase and 13 during the grower phase. The first and sixth weeks accounted for 10 and 11 deaths, respectively. Nine deaths occurred between days 36 and 39, coinciding with levamisole deworming and the subsequent Newcastle disease booster vaccination, although causality could not be established. Presumptive coccidiosis associated with wet litter was treated on days 24–26. Mean live weight reached 1,779.6 g on day 49, 21.3% below the reference value, after a maximum deficit of 27.6% on day 21.

Conclusion: Mortality remained below the stated 5% benchmark despite uneven losses and persistent growth retardation. Improved diagnostic surveillance and careful vaccination practices may support flock assessment and management.

Optimization of Drying Korhogo Tiger Nut Tubers for Flour Production: Nutritional, Functional, and Microbiological Quality

Aya Philomene KOKORA, Sylvie Florence OULAI, Touré NAKA, Zoumana SILUE — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Flour prepared from tiger nut, an underutilised food resource, offers potential for incorporation into composite foods. This investigation examined how drying conditions affected the nutritional, physicochemical, functional and microbiological properties of flour produced from tubers obtained in Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire. After preparation, the tubers were dried either for five days at laboratory temperature (27°C) or for 48 hours in an oven maintained at 50°C or 60°C. The resulting flours were analysed for biochemical components, minerals, phytochemicals, antinutritional constituents, water and oil absorption capacities, and microbial loads using the procedures detailed below. Across the treatments, the flours contained 8.47–8.62% protein, 18.51–19.10% lipid, 11.95–12.13% fibre and 65.59–66.69% total carbohydrate. Potassium and phosphorus were prominent among the minerals detected. The 27°C treatment yielded higher polyphenol (0.08 mg GAE/100 g) and flavonoid (0.34 mg QE/100 g) concentrations than either oven treatment. Water absorption ranged between 447.30% and 490.32%, and oil absorption between 340.64% and 400.17%; both capacities were greater in the oven-dried samples. Although microbial counts were generally higher after drying at laboratory temperature, they remained within the microbiological criteria applied in this investigation. Thus, different drying conditions favour different aspects of flour quality, and the choice of treatment should reflect the intended food application.

Effects of Grazor (Glufosinate-Ammonium) Herbicide on the Behavioural Responses and Serum Biochemical Parameters in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The indiscriminate application of herbicides in agriculture for weed control and to improve agricultural productivity has led to significant contamination of aquatic ecosystems, resulting in physiological dysfunction in aquatic biota including fish. This study investigated the acute and sub-lethal effects of Grazor, a glufosinate-based herbicide, on the behavioural and biochemical parameters of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). For the acute toxicity test, fish were exposed to 0.30, 0.60, 1.20, 2.40, and 4.80 mL/L of the herbicide for 96 h and to 0.07, 0.15, and 0.29 mL/L for 28 days to determine the effects of the herbicide on the biochemical parameters of the fish, and were withdrawn 24 h after exposure. The 96-h LC₅₀ of the Grazor herbicide in the fish was estimated at 1.17 mL/L. The exposure led to behavioural abnormalities including hyperactivity, surface orientation, stress, restlessness, temporary calmness, and mortality, in comparison with the control group. Biochemical analysis revealed significant increases in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatinine, and urea levels at higher concentrations. Total protein levels decreased relative to the control, while albumin and globulin levels showed no consistent pattern. Exposure to acute and sublethal concentrations of Grazor herbicide can cause behavioural disturbances and biochemical dysfunction in O. niloticus. Care should be taken when handling and applying this herbicide to avoid the adverse effects it may cause in aquatic organisms including fish.