Department of Biology

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://etd.hu.edu.et/handle/123456789/90

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Introduction to Cell and Tissue Culture Theory and Technique
(New York, 1998) Jennie P. Mather; Penelope E. Roberts
Applied Dairy Microbiology
(Hawassa University, 2001) Elmer H. Marth; James L. Steele
The Application of Biotechnology to Industrial Sustainability
(OECD, 2001)
Modern industrial microbiology and bitechnology
(USA, 2007) Nduka Okafor
Fermentation Microbiology and Biotechnology
(Taylor & Francis, 2012) E.M.T. El-Mansi • C.F.A. Bryce •; B. Dahhou S. Sanchez •; A.L. Demain • A.R. Allman
WET COFFEE PROCESSING AGRO-INDUSTRY WASTEWATER TREATMENT POTENTIAL OF CONSTRUCTED AND NATURAL WETLANDS : THE CASE OF KEGE PROCESSING PLANT IN SIDAMA NATIONAL REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA
(HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, 2023-03) YOHANNES SEIFU BEREGO
Constructed wetlands are engineered to use natural processes to remove pollutants from contaminated water in a more controlled environment, using phytoremediators for effective wastewater treatment.The aim of this study was to establish the coffee berries processing AgroIndustry Wastewater Treatment Potential of Constructed and Natural Wetlands.The finding indicates that calcium had the highest concentration (1355±18.02mg kg-1 ) of macro elements in soil samples (from the farmland), followed by K (681.43±1.52mg kg-1 ). Similarly, Na (111.63±0.35 mg kg-1 ), Cu (49.96±0.99mg kg-1 ), Co (5.43±0.31 mg kg-1 ), Mn (0.62±0.238mg kg1 ), Ni (0.194±0.01mg kg-1 ), and Zn (0.163±0.007mg kg-1 ) were detected among the microelements in soil samples (from farmland). Pb and Cr were not detected in all soil samples (from farmland). Potassium (K) was found to have the highest concentration (99.93±0.037mg kg1 ) followed by Ca (17.23± 0.36 mg kg-1 ) among the macro elements in coffee beans from farmers’ farms. Like coffee beans from farmland, samples from washing plants also contained the highest K (77.93±0.115mg kg-1 ), followed by Ca (4.33±0.035 mg kg-1 ). Metal levels in coffee bean samples from farmland are in the following order: K>Na>Ca >Mn>Cu> Ni>Zn. Metal levels were found to be K>Na>Ca >Mn>Cu> Zn>Ni in coffee beans from the washing plants. Co, Cr, Pb and Cd were not detection in all coffee bean samples. Except for calcium, potassium and manganese, the levels of metals in coffee beans from farmland and washing plants were not significantly different at a 95% confidence level within a kebele. Findings indicated that a natural wetland had a mean influent and effluent of total suspended solids (TSS) of 2190.78±448.46 mg/L and 972.67±234.312mg/L, respectively. A Mann-Whitney U test revealed that TSS was significantly higher in the natural wetland (median =1551.50) compared to constructed wetland (median =922.5), U =676.5, z=-2.435, p=0.015, r=0.257. Natural wetlands had a mean influent of biological oxygen demand (BOD) was 4277.94±157.02mg/L, while in the effluent the BOD it was 326.83±112.24 mg/L. In constructed wetland it was 4192.4±191.3mg/L, 782.72±507.6mg/L and 88.28±20.08mg/L in influent, middle and effluent respectively. The average chemical oxygen demand (COD) value at influent in natural wetlands was 8085.61±536.99 mg/L and in the effluent it was 675.33±201.4mg/L. In the constructed wetland, it was found to be 8409.8±592.9, 1372.6± 387.94, and 249.0± 7.68 for influent, middle and effluent respectively. Comparatively, the purification efficiency of organic pollutants (TSS, BOD, and COD) of constructed wetlands was better than natural wetlands, whereas natural xvii wetlands had better purification efficiency of nitrogen compounds such as ammonium, nitrite, and nitrate. On average, removal rates for nitrogen compounds were 39.53% and-24.41% for ammonium, 79.44% and 55.4 % for nitrite, and 68.90% and 60.6% for nitrate in natural and constructed wetlands respectively, while the phosphate removal rate was 43.17% and 58.7 in natural and constructed wetlands, respectively. A Mann-Whitney U test revealed that there is no significance difference in nitrite, nitrate, ammonium, and phosphate concentration between natural and constructed wetlands (p >0.05). Findings indicated that Ca (460.0 ppm) had the highest mean concentration of heavy metals, whereas Ni (0.50 ppm) had the lowest in soil samples of constructed wetland. Metal absorption by Vetiver Grass is the highest concentrations found in plant tissues grown in the following order K > Ca > Na > Mn > Fe > Zn > Cu > Ni > Cr in shoots. The order of the heavy metal contents in the roots of vetiver grass was K > Ca > Na > Mn > Fe > Zn > Cu > Ni > Cr. Based on translocation and bioconcentration factors, the plant was found efficient in the translocation of Mn and Ni from roots to shoot, whereas It served as a potential phytostabilizer for Ca, Cu, Cr, Fe, K, Na, and Zn since the TF values are lower than 1, which show that vetiver grass prefers to accumulate heavy metals in the roots rather than the shoot and so supports its potential for phytostabilization. From the present study, it was evident that vetiver grass is an ideal candidate for wastewater treatment using constructed wetland technology. Based on these results, both systems of treatment were effective in treating the coffee effluent since most of the values obtained were below the permissible EEPA limits. Even though the constructed wetland treatment plant performed better overall, in comparison, the natural wetlands had better purification efficiency for nitrogen compounds like ammonium, nitrite, and nitrate and the constructed wetlands had better purification efficiency for organic pollutants (TSS, BOD, and COD). We observed permitted levels of macro and trace elements in coffee beans from farmlands and washing plants. Only in the soil samples, cadmium concentrations are higher than those permitted for agricultural soil recommended by WHO and FAO. Overall, there is no health danger linked with the use of coffee beans due to detrimental and trace heavy metals
WET COFFEE PROCESSING AGRO-INDUSTRY WASTEWATER TREATMENT POTENTIAL OF CONSTRUCTED AND NATURAL WETLAND : THE CASE OF KEGE PROCESSING PLANT IN SIDAMA NATIONAL REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA
(HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, 2023-05) YOHANNES SEIFU BEREGO
Constructed wetlands are engineered to use natural processes to remove pollutants from contaminated water in a more controlled environment, using phytoremediators for effective wastewater treatment.The aim of this study was to establish the coffee berries processing AgroIndustry Wastewater Treatment Potential of Constructed and Natural Wetlands.The finding indicates that calcium had the highest concentration (1355±18.02mg kg-1 ) of macro elements in soil samples (from the farmland), followed by K (681.43±1.52mg kg-1 ). Similarly, Na (111.63±0.35 mg kg-1 ), Cu (49.96±0.99mg kg-1 ), Co (5.43±0.31 mg kg-1 ), Mn (0.62±0.238mg kg1 ), Ni (0.194±0.01mg kg-1 ), and Zn (0.163±0.007mg kg-1 ) were detected among the microelements in soil samples (from farmland). Pb and Cr were not detected in all soil samples (from farmland). Potassium (K) was found to have the highest concentration (99.93±0.037mg kg1 ) followed by Ca (17.23± 0.36 mg kg-1 ) among the macro elements in coffee beans from farmers’ farms. Like coffee beans from farmland, samples from washing plants also contained the highest K (77.93±0.115mg kg-1 ), followed by Ca (4.33±0.035 mg kg-1 ). Metal levels in coffee bean samples from farmland are in the following order: K>Na>Ca >Mn>Cu> Ni>Zn. Metal levels were found to be K>Na>Ca >Mn>Cu> Zn>Ni in coffee beans from the washing plants. Co, Cr, Pb and Cd were not detection in all coffee bean samples. Except for calcium, potassium and manganese, the levels of metals in coffee beans from farmland and washing plants were not significantly different at a 95% confidence level within a kebele. Findings indicated that a natural wetland had a mean influent and effluent of total suspended solids (TSS) of 2190.78±448.46 mg/L and 972.67±234.312mg/L, respectively. A Mann-Whitney U test revealed that TSS was significantly higher in the natural wetland (median =1551.50) compared to constructed wetland (median =922.5), U =676.5, z=-2.435, p=0.015, r=0.257. Natural wetlands had a mean influent of biological oxygen demand (BOD) was 4277.94±157.02mg/L, while in the effluent the BOD it was 326.83±112.24 mg/L. In constructed wetland it was 4192.4±191.3mg/L, 782.72±507.6mg/L and 88.28±20.08mg/L in influent, middle and effluent respectively. The average chemical oxygen demand (COD) value at influent in natural wetlands was 8085.61±536.99 mg/L and in the effluent it was 675.33±201.4mg/L. In the constructed wetland, it was found to be 8409.8±592.9, 1372.6± 387.94, and 249.0± 7.68 for influent, middle and effluent respectively. Comparatively, the purification efficiency of organic pollutants (TSS, BOD, and COD) of constructed wetlands was better than natural wetlands, whereas natural xvii wetlands had better purification efficiency of nitrogen compounds such as ammonium, nitrite, and nitrate. On average, removal rates for nitrogen compounds were 39.53% and-24.41% for ammonium, 79.44% and 55.4 % for nitrite, and 68.90% and 60.6% for nitrate in natural and constructed wetlands respectively, while the phosphate removal rate was 43.17% and 58.7 in natural and constructed wetlands, respectively. A Mann-Whitney U test revealed that there is no significance difference in nitrite, nitrate, ammonium, and phosphate concentration between natural and constructed wetlands (p >0.05). Findings indicated that Ca (460.0 ppm) had the highest mean concentration of heavy metals, whereas Ni (0.50 ppm) had the lowest in soil samples of constructed wetland. Metal absorption by Vetiver Grass is the highest concentrations found in plant tissues grown in the following order K > Ca > Na > Mn > Fe > Zn > Cu > Ni > Cr in shoots. The order of the heavy metal contents in the roots of vetiver grass was K > Ca > Na > Mn > Fe > Zn > Cu > Ni > Cr. Based on translocation and bioconcentration factors, the plant was found efficient in the translocation of Mn and Ni from roots to shoot, whereas It served as a potential phytostabilizer for Ca, Cu, Cr, Fe, K, Na, and Zn since the TF values are lower than 1, which show that vetiver grass prefers to accumulate heavy metals in the roots rather than the shoot and so supports its potential for phytostabilization. From the present study, it was evident that vetiver grass is an ideal candidate for wastewater treatment using constructed wetland technology. Based on these results, both systems of treatment were effective in treating the coffee effluent since most of the values obtained were below the permissible EEPA limits. Even though the constructed wetland treatment plant performed better overall, in comparison, the natural wetlands had better purification efficiency for nitrogen compounds like ammonium, nitrite, and nitrate and the constructed wetlands had better purification efficiency for organic pollutants (TSS, BOD, and COD). We observed permitted levels of macro and trace elements in coffee beans from farmlands and washing plants. Only in the soil samples, cadmium concentrations are higher than those permitted for agricultural soil recommended by WHO and FAO. Overall, there is no health danger linked with the use of coffee beans due to detrimental and trace heavy metals.
LEVELS AND POSSIBLE RISKS OF HEAVY METALS IN THE LOWER OMO RIVER AND DELTA (L. TURKANA) IN SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA, INCLUDING AN ASSESSMENT OF SOME OTHER WATER QUALITY FACTORS
(HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, 2023-05) ABIY ANDEMO KOTACHO
Heavy metal concentrations in water and sediments can be biomagnifyied and impact human health through consuming of contaminated water or fish. Human activities in the Omo River and Delta have caused increased heavy metal levels in the freshwater ecosystem, adversely affecting the freshwater quality. Studies have shown higher levels of heavy metals in Lake Turkana freshwater ecosystem including in the fish tissues and water on the Kenyan side, but information gaps exist on the Ethiopian side. Commercially exploited fish species, such as Lates niloticus (Nile perch) and Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia), may accumulate heavy metals from the freshwater, leading to health risks in humans. Apparently, no study has been reported on the water quality status of the freshwater ecosystem of the Lower Omo Basin especially with respect to heavy metals. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the levels and possible risks of the nine heavy metals (Cd, Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) including an assessment of some other water quality factors from from the Lower Omo River and Delta (L. Turkana) in southern Ethiopia. Surface water, surface sediment, irrigated soil, and two fish species (L. niloticus and O. niloticus) of the freshwater ecosystems were examined for heavy metals. The study was carried out at the Lower Omo River Basin near Omorate town and the Omo Delta where River Omo joins Lake Turkana. To assess the levels of heavy metals and the water quality from this freshwater ecosystem, thirty sampling points were taken of which 15 sampling points were designed to represent the River water and 15 the Delta. About 120 fish samples of each of the two fish species (L. niloticus and O. niloticus) were taken. Liver and muscle tissues of the two fish species were analyzed for heavy metals. Sediment samples were also taken from the same sites where the water samples were collected. Soil samples were collected from the vicinity of Lower Omo River where irrigation is intensively used. The levels of heavy metals in water; fish tissues, sediment, and soil samples were analyzed with Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (FAAS, novAA400p). The other water quality parameters were analyzed using the standard methods for each parameter as described in the protocol or guidelines APHA (2017). The analysis was carried out at Arbaminch university in the laboratories of chemistry, water and environmental engineering. XVIII The eight heavy metals (Mn, Zn, Cu, Co, Cr, Pb, Ni, and Fe) were detected in the different environmental compartments of the freshwater ecosystem from Lower Omo River and Delta. Accordingly, the mean values of the measured heavy metals detected in the River waterin mg/L were 0.439, 0.1, 0.168 , 0.393, 0.318 , 0.007 , 8.926, and 0.06 whereas the respective values for Delta were 0.43, 0.118 , 0.166 , 0.382 , 0.338 , 0.008, 8.684 and 0.064 for Mn, Zn, Cu, Cr, Pb, Ni, Fe, and Co respectively. Both the River and Delta water had mean levels of lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), Cobalt (Co), and chromium (Cr) that exceeded WHO's permissible limits for water. The target hazard quotient (THQ) value greater than 1 was examined for Cr, Pb, and Mn both in children and adults through ingestion and dermal route from the River and Delta Water. The CRs for both children and adults via ingestion of the River and Delta water followed the order Cr > Pb. According to the CRI value, both the River and Delta water could be classified as high environmental risk in terms of the detected heavy metals heavy metal levels under consideration. In terms of heavy metal levels of freshwater fish, the Pb level in muscle tissues ranged from 0.597mg kg-1 to 0.890mg kg-1, with a greater value in the Omo Delta sample, which could be attributable to the water character of the Omo River and the Delta. The mean Pb levels in the muscle tissue of O. niloticus in the Omo River and the Delta were above the FAO/WHO recommended limits in the human diet. The high values of Pb could be due to intensive anthropogenic activities like use of agrochemicals (pesticides and fertilizers), petrol from fishing boats that contain lead, Car washing, gas/fuel station, solid wastes, and effluents from factories. It’s also possible that heavy rains carried the wastes down; contributing to the greater heavy metal levels of the study area. The target hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HI) indices were used to assess the noncarcinogenic health hazards associated with the detected heavy metals in children and adults who consumed L. Niloticus and O. niloticus muscle from the Lower Omo River and Delta. In all XIX of the samples tested, the THQs for heavy metals in fish muscle consumed by adults and children were less than one. However, the Hazard Index (HI) for the detected heavy metals for children was larger than one. Pb had the highest THQ levels in both L. niloticus and O. niloticus, while Fe and Ni had the lowest values in O. niloticus muscle and L. niloticus muscle, respectively. In terms of sediment pollution, the mean concentrations of the detected heavy metals in mg/kg in the sediments of River and Delta Lake were respectively 2.947 and 2.904 for (Mn), 0.801 and 0.809 for (Zn), 0.278 and 0.278 for (Cu), 0.437 and 0.434 for (Cr), 0.054 and 0.058 for (Pb), 0.009 and 0.008 for (Ni), 19.553 and 19.515 for (Fe), and 0.236 and 0.223 for (Co). The order of the mean values of the detected heavy metals in the river sediment were Fe > Mn > Zn > Cr > Cu > Co > Pb > Ni, but in the Delta Lake, the order was Fe > Mn > Zn > Co > Cu >Pb > Cr > Ni. The mean pollution liad index (PLI) values of heavy metals in sediment revealed low metal contamination of the sediment (PLI < 1.0). Thus, the study highlighted the importance of monitoring heavy metal levels in sediments to ensure the safety of the freshwater ecosystem. Regarding the heavy metal level in soil, the mean values of the measured heavy metals in mg/kg in the soil irrigated by the lower Omo River were 4.4 for Mn, 1.142 for Zn, 0.2 for Cu, 0.43 for Cr, 0.424 for Pb, 0.004 for Ni, 23.5 for Fe, and 0.588 for Co. The order of the typical concentrations of heavy metals in soil were Fe > Mn > Zn > Co > Cr > Cu > Ni. The EI results for the detected heavy metals in the soil irrigated by the Lower Omo River in decreasing order were: Fe > Cu > Mn > Pb > Co > Zn > Cr > Ni. Except for Fe, the CFvalue showed a low level of contamination which was less than one. Concerning the other water quality factors, the mean BOD5 levels in the upstream and downstream of this study were 16.268±1.47 mg/L and 16.28 ±1.133 mg/L, respectively. The COD value of the XX river, which is upstream, was higher at 376.06 ± 130.45 mg/L than that of the Lake, which is downstream, at 136.00 ± 41.52 mg/L. Fluoride ion levels in the river were 0.89 ±0.0135, while those in the Lake were 2.026 ±0.064 mg/l on average. The phosphate (PO4-3 ) concentrations in the River and Lake (Delta) were 1.866 ± 0.625 mg/L and 5.108 ± 0.975 mg/L, respectively. The mean NH3 readings of the River and Lake were 0.54 ±0.361 and 1.354 ± 0.655, respectively. The higher values of the water quality factors could be due to anthropogenic activities such as agrochemical use, and domestic wastes. The finding of the water quality index (WQI) also revealed that the water quality status was poor and unsuitable for drinking particularly in the Omo Delta.The Delta Lake’s WQI value was found to be 142.47, which was beyond the threshold value for water quality index and Unsuitable fordrinking
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF INDOOR USE OF PESTICIDE IN HOUSEHOLDS OF HAWASSA CITY AND ITS POSSIBLE HEALTH IMPACTS, SIDAMA NATIONAL REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA
(HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, 2023-10) AGEGNEHU ALEMU
Pesticides are widely used in homes to prevent or control pests, diseases, and other animal pathogens to improve the public health quality. However, improper use of pesticide has consequences of human health effects. In country, the impacts of pesticides are likely to be aggravated by the limited knowledge among users on toxicological and chemical properties of these substances. This study was designed to assess knowledge, attitude and practice of indoor use of pesticide in households of Hawassa city and its possible health impacts, Sidama national regional state, Ethiopia. To achieve this objective, essential information was gathered from six sample kebeles based on mixed research design. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected concurrently. In this survey 217 households were selected from six sample kebeles then distributed according to the numbers of households in each Kebele. This study finding indicates the most common pests’ troubled households in the homes were cockroach, house fly, bed bugs, mice, mosquitoes and lice 45.4%, 23.4%, 13.7%, 7.8%, 5.9% and 3.9% respectively. In order to control pests 75.6% and 24.4% of households used traditional methods and synthetic pesticides respectively. The result of the analysis indicated that the 75.6%) of respondents were said that they used synthetic pesticides at different levels, 63.4%) of the household respondents said that they used roach killer pesticides at different levels, 32.2%) of the respondents reported that untrained fathers were sprays pesticide, 49.3%) of the household participants indicated that they disposed empty pesticide containers on the open area, 65.9%) of the respondents indicated that pesticides enter in to the body via skin. This result also indicated that households mostly exposed to pesticides during spraying. They were not properly disposed and they re-used pesticide containers for various purposes in their home. As survey finding indicated that improper use of pesticides in home is the consequences of human health impacts in the study area. In general, the majority of households have low level of awareness in the study area concerning their practice related to pesticide use. Therefore, there should be an integrated effort from governmental and nongovernmental organizations that focus on the awareness rising of households on proper pesticide use and safety measure practice management related issues.
ISOLATION, CHARACTERIZATION, SYMBIOTIC PERFORMANCE AND HOST RANGE OF INDIGENOUS SOYBEAN (Glycine max L.) NODULATING RHIZOBIA ISOLATED FROM SELECTED SMALL HOLDER FARMERS’ FIELDS OF HAWELLA WOREDA, SIDAMA REGIONAL STATE
(2023-11) LEMI TESFA TAREKEGN
Soybean (Glycine max L.), a protein and oil-rich crop, plays a significant role in Ethiopia's agriculture, contributing to nearly 18% of the country's total oilseed production. Despite its inherent ability for nitrogen fixation, soybeans often fail to reach their full potential when introduced to new regions, primarily due to the lack of compatible rhizobia strains or ineffective nodulation. This study aimed to address this issue by isolating, characterizing, and evaluating the symbiotic efficiency and host range of indigenous soybean nodulating rhizobia from smallholder farmers’ fields in selected Kebeles of Hawella woreda in the Sidama region where soybean was recently introduced. Six bulk soil samples were collected from soybeangrown fields for trapping the rhizobia using soybeans. Of these, 66.6% of the samples supported nodulation under greenhouse conditions. Eight rhizobia isolates were obtained from the root nodules of soybean plants. These isolates were found to be Gram-negative, and catalase-positive, and exhibited diverse physiological and biochemical characteristics. In the nodulation assays, all isolates formed nodules on the soybean variety and were successfully reisolated from the nodules, authenticating them as rhizobia. The relative symbiotic effectiveness of the isolates ranged from 48.31% to 102.24%, indicating their potential to enhance soybean productivity in the region. These isolates were also able to nodulate mung bean and haricot bean but not peanut, demonstrating their broad host range within tropical legumes except for specific nodulation of peanuts. The study concludes that these indigenous rhizobia strains could potentially play a significant role in sustainable agriculture by enhancing soybean production and contributing to food security in the region. The findings also suggest that further research is needed to explore the potential application of these indigenous rhizobia strains in biofertilizer production and sustainable agriculture practices
DIVERSITY, DISTRIBUTION, MANAGEMENT, AND PRODUCTION CONSTRAINTS OF YAMS LANDRACES (DIOSCOREA SPP.): THE CASE OF BOLOSO SORE AND DAMOT GALE DISTRICTS OF WOLAITA ZONE, SOUTH ETHIOPIA REGION
(2023-11) GEMEDA DESTA
Yam is a resilient staple tuber crop with a long shelf life that offers food security and income generation. However, its distribution and diversity are limited, with synthetic fertilizer-demanding crops being a persistent challenge in the study area. In this regard, therefore, this study was conducted to assess diversity, distribution, management, and production constraints of yams in two districts of Wolaita Zone, South Ethiopia Region, namely Boloso Sore and Damot Gale Districts of which six, yam growing Kebeles (three from each district) were selected. A total of 366 households were selected from the six kebeles using systematic random sampling techniques. The major data collection tools used were, semi-structured interviews, direct field observation, key informants interviews and focus group discussion. Both qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS software ver.25. A total of 19 named yam landraces were recorded, with a range from one to eight (mean 2.3) on individual farm land owned by a farmer. Richness of yam landraces ranged from 1 to 8 per farm and from 5 to 14 per Kebele with in the two Districts. Yukara Kebele had the highest diversity, while Zegere Kebele had the lowest diversity. Yukara Kebele showed the highest diversity, with a diversity index (H') of 2.18 and Zegere Kebele had the lowest diversity, with a diversity index of 1.43. On average, 73.7% of yam landraces found in one Kebele were also found in the other Kebeles within the two Districts whereas 10.5% of them were common to all Kebeles of the two districts. The distributions of landraces also varied across the surveyed Kebeles. A small number of highly abundant yam landraces were grown throughout the surveyed Kebeles whereas the greater numbers of the yam landraces had a narrow distribution and abundances. In addition, the study showed that farmers in the study area manage diverse yam landraces with respect to time of maturity, adaptation to environmental conditions, and cooking properties. The major constraints to yam production include: wild animal attack, lack of materials for staking, land shortage, drought or climate change, and scarcity of mother yam, which reported by 90.7%, 87.4%, 86.1%, 74.9% and 68.8% of respondents, respectively. Therefore, local communities' conservation, preservation, and utilization techniques for yam landraces can ensure their long-term viability
COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF BLACK SOLDIER FLY FRASS, BIOSLURRY AND CHEMICAL FERTILIZER ON MAIZE AND SWISS CHARD AGRONOMIC PERFORMANCE AND SOIL PROPERTIES IN HAWASSA, SIDAMA REGION, ETHIOPIA
(2023-11) EMABET ASEFA
In Ethiopia, soil fertility and crop production are influenced by various agronomic practices. However, increasing crop production without disrupting the environment is one of the main challanges. Application of organic fertilizers such sas manure, compost, bioslurry and frass can be an alternative solution for sustainable farming. This study evaluated the comparative effects of black soldier fly larvae frass (BSFF), bioslurry (BS) and chemical fertilizer (CF) on maize and Swiss chard agronomic performances and soil properties. Maize and Swiss chard were used as test crops. The treatments were 7.5 t ha-1 BSFF and BS, 100 kg ha-1 CF and the control for maize and 10.3 t ha-1 BSFF and BS, 100 kg ha-1 CF and the control for Swiss chard. The treatments of both experiments were arranged in a randomized compelet block design with three replications. Data related to agronomic parameters of both crops were collected and analyzed using SAS software. Physicochemical properties of BSFF, BS, and pre and post experimental soil samples were analyzed. Results showed that the application of all fertilizer improved the agronomic performance of both crops. The application of BSFF to maize reduced the average number of days to reach tasseling, silking and physiological maturity. It also resulted in significantly (p<0.05) larger maize plant height (218 cm), total biomass (20.4 t ha-1 ) and larger grain yield (4 t ha-1 ) compared to the control. Moreover, the BSFF treatment resulted in significantly (p<0.05) larger Swiss chard plant height (72 cm) and leaf fresh weight (125 t/ha-1 ) compared to the BS, CF and the control. BSFF and BS improved soil pH, bulk density and porosity. Soil organic matter, soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus and cation exchange capacity of the soil were improved with the applications of BSFF and BS. Overall, the results of the study demonstrated that BSFF is an effective organic fertilizer for maize and Swiss chard production and soil health. However, since the experiment was done only for one season and at one study site, similar experiments should be carried out for over several seasons and locations to make a more conclusive recommendation.
Trends in prevalence of malaria infection and associated factors in Loka Abaya District, Sidama regional state, Ethiopia
(2023-11) MESAFINT MELESE
Malaria is deadly vector-borne disease which is caused by Plasmodium species. It is essential to determine the pattern and prevalence of the disease, to evaluate the effectiveness of control and prevention measures. So, this study was aimed to assess the trends in prevalence and associated risk factors of malaria in Loka Abaya district. A retrospective and community based cross-sectional studies were conducted during April to June 2023. The population >18 years were included as study participants and the total sample obtained was 186. The study participants were selected by using systematic random sampling method. Retrospective data was collected from one primary hospital and five health centers in the district. Blood samples were collected from participants through structured questionnaire. The blood samples were examined in Hantate primary hospital. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize data. The association of dependent and independent variables was evaluated using chi-square test, binary and multiple logistic regressions. In the last five years, 34,613 blood films were examined for malaria and 9070 (26.2 %) were found positive. The minimum rate was reported in 2018 (20.3%) and the maximum was in 2020 (30.1%). The males were 52.6% and females were 47.4%. The adults >15 years were (57.2%), 5-14 were (21.6%) and children <5 (21.2%). The P. falciparum infection was (58.8%), vivax was (38.8%) and mixed infection was (2.4%). The highest infection rate of malaria was occurred from September up to November. The prevalence rate of malaria from parasitological survey was 18.3%. Sex, occupation and family size were shown significant association with the infection. The presence of stagnant water, habit of using net, window availability and type were associated risk factors. Malaria is still health problem of the study area which needs the strength and effectiveness of prevention and control programs.
ASSESSMENT OF INTESTINAL PARASITIC CONTAMINATION OF RAW VEGETABLES COLLECTED FROM SELECTED MARKETS IN HAWASSA CITY, ETHIOPIA
(2023-11) DEBEBE DOGISO
Intestinal parasite infections are the most common cause of disease in humans and the main contributor to morbidity and mortality. Consumption of unwashed raw vegetables is one of the key entry routes for such illnesses. This study focuses on assessing the presence of intestinal parasites on raw vegetables sold in selected markets in Hawassa City. A crosssectional study was conducted from February to April 2023 to determine the parasitic contamination of vegetables. The samples included 384 vegetables selected from 6 types of vegetable including lettuce, cabbage, carrot, tomato, green pepper, and potato. The samples were transported to the laboratory and analyzed using direct microscopy and staining methods. The data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon sign ranked test in SPSS software. Analyses revealed that out of the 384 samples collected, 196(51.04%) were contaminated with intestinal parasites. The identified parasite include Giardia lamblia 31.7%, Entamoeba histolytica 26.8%, Ascaris lumbricoides 21.3%, Cryptosporidium parvum 13.5%, Strongyloides stercoralis 12.2%, Enterobius vermicularis 6.7%, Balantidum coli 6.5%, Entamoeba coli 3.1%, hookworm 2.6%, Cyclospora caytanesis 1.8%, Isospora belli 1.8% and Trichuris trichiura 1.8%. The contamination varied among different vegetable types, with cabbage 75%, lettuce 70.3%, potato 56.3%, tomato 39.1%, carrot 37.5% and green pepper 28.1%. The samples were contaminated with eggs 22.6%, larvae 22.6%, cysts 61.7%, trophozoites 6.5% and oocysts 17.1%. The findings of this study highlight the presence of intestinal parasites on raw vegetables sold in selected local markets in Hawassa City, Ethiopia. The vendors and consumers should practice proper sanitation and hygiene practices, as well as wear appropriate footwear
HEALTHCARE SOLID WASTE GENERATION RATE AND ITS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN THREE HEALTH CENTERS OF WONDO GENET WOREDA, SIDAMA REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA
(HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, 2023-11) TSEGA MESAFINT
In many developing countries, the inadequacy of data regarding the quantity and composition of healthcare waste is one of the major reasons for improper healthcare waste management. The problem of poor healthcare solid waste management in health centers has become a critical issue as it poses potential health risks and damage to the environment in developing countries. This study aimed to assess healthcare solid waste generation rate and its management system in selected three health centers of Wondo Genet Woreda. A cross-sectional study design was applied to assess the healthcare solid waste generation rate and its management practices in three selected health centers. The study used quantitative and qualitative approach methods. The quantitative data were collected for seven consecutive days using questionnaires and direct measurement of healthcare waste and the qualitative data were collected by using an observational checklist and key Informant Interview. The SPSS version 21 and Microsoft Excel Version 2010 were used to analyze data. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used for analyzing and interpretation of data. Pearson Correlation used to correlate the relationship between observed number of patient flow and quantities of healthcare solid waste generated from case teams. One-Way ANOVA was applied to perceive variation in healthcare solid waste generation rate among the three health centers. The numbers of patients were recorded from Basha HC, Aruma HC and Kella HC was 623, 579 and 519 patients per week respectively. The total weight of general, sharp, infectious, pathological and Pharmaceutical health care wastes generated from three selected healthcare centers. The findings revealed that the management of healthcare Solid waste in the health centers is poor. The total healthcare solid waste generated from Basha, Aruma and Kella healthcare center was 10.32kg/day or 72.23kg/week, 9.72kg/day or 68.04kg/week, 7.27kg/day or 50.9kg/week respectively. The total healthcare waste generation rate was 0.33Kg/patient/day. Although waste segregation at source of generation was crucial to improve waste management practices, it was observed that in this study, healthcare centers onsite segregation of healthcare solid waste was not practiced appropriately. Similarly, status of healthcare solid waste management practice with regard to storage, collection, treatment and disposal were not coherent with the WHO guideline. 66%) of the respondents responded that HCWs were poorly segregated in each case team, 93% of them also responded that there were no sufficient waste containers, 82.2%) of respondents responded that there was a temporary HCW storage and 95.9%) responded that there were no sufficient storage areas in health centers. Therefore, the management at the healthcare facilities along with the woreda health office officials should work together to properly implement the healthcare solid waste management as per the recommendation of the WHO healthcare solid waste management rules for keeping human health as well environmental sustainability.
EFFECTIVENESS OF STAKEHOLDERS’ INFORMATION ON PESTICIDE HANDLING KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF FARMERS IN SHEBEDINO WOREDA, SIDAMA REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA
(HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, 2023-11) ASRAT KEBEDE WOSHE
Pesticides are widely used in agricultural production to control pests, diseases and maintain high product quality. Increase pesticide use has led to potentially adverse effect on human health and environment, particularly; in those where society used inadequate pesticide handling is practiced. This study aimed to assess effectiveness of a stakeholders’ information on pesticide handling knowledge and practice of farmers in Shebedino Woreda, Sidama Regional state, Ethiopia. Description cross-sectional research design was employed and study kebele were selected by purposive sampling. HH were selected by systematic random techniques. A total 222 farmers participated in this study with semi-structured question interviews, focus group discussion and field observations on farm and 13 key informants involved. Majority (81.1%) of farmers in study area were without having formal education or illiterate. Thus, majority of farmers did not acknowledged that pesticides were harmful to human health and environment (94.1%) and (94.6%) respectively. Effectiveness of pesticide information significantly influenced by educational status, Farmers who attended high school and above have understood more other than those who have no formal education(X2=23.66, P<0.001). Farmers obtained pesticide information frequently from agricultural extension worker and labels more likely to use personal protective equipment when compared with farmers obtained pesticide information from other farmers(X2=42.66, p<0.001). Above half of farmers reported that they did store empty container and spraying equipment in home (54%) and (98.6%) respectively. Of farmers that have attended of training could handle more properly practice when compared with untrained and illiterate(X2=30.27, P<0.01). 85.1% of the farmers did not wash contaminated clothes separately. Even though farmers in the present study are increasingly using pesticides, there are numerous gaps in practice, information and knowledge. To reduce farmer pesticide exposure, government should improve farmers' education level, facilitate training and improve farmers' source of information to sustain effectiveness of pesticide information
PREVALENCE OF TYPHOID FEVER AND RELATED RISK FACTORS IN GUMER DISTRICT, GURAGE ZONE, CENTRAL REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA
(HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, 2023-11) LAKE AYNU
Typhoid fever (TF) continues to be a major public health problem in many developing countries. . In Ethiopia, like any other sub-Saharan African country, the condition is worsened due to shortage of safe potable water and toilet access, low health education and overall high illiteracy level. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of TF and its asosated risk factors in Gumer District, Gurage zone, Central Ethiopia regional state, Ethiopia. In this health facilitybased cross-sectional study design, all patients attending Gumer District selected Health Center A structured questionnaire was administered to capture socio-demographic and other -related variables in association to the risk of TF. Blood samples collected, sera separated and tested by the slide agglutination (Widal) method were used. The required statistical analysis was done using SPSS software Pearson’s correlation. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to test the association between socio-demographic variables and seropositivity for salmonella antigens used with p-value ≤0.05 considered statistically significant. Out of 384 patients diagnosed 278 (72.4%) were TF seropositive the highest proportion (52 .6 %) of cases occurring among the age 16-31 years (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.259, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.227-4.161, p=0.009), males 172(80.4%) TF positive with (AOR 0.861, 95% CI 0.131- 1.72, p=0.000), lack of toilet 144 (37.5%) from this 202(52.6%) TF positive with (AOR 1.672, 95% CI 1.610-1.7100, p=0.000), and illiteracy 90(81.8%) TF positive with (AOR 2.756 95% CI 1.416-4.322, p= 0.004 uncooked vegetables 168(76.7%) with (AOR) 2.103 95% CI 1.213-3.171 p=0.029) were independent significant predictors of TF seropositivity. TF is a serious public health burden in the locality calling for scale-up of intervention strategies including provision of safe water supply, toilet coverage and health education. Residents should be sensitized on control of fly densities from their latrines, washing hands with soap and clean safe water after visiting the latrine and before preparing or eating food. They should also be sensitized on washing and/ or pealing fresh fruits before eating and how to treat water at home before drinking using cheap, simple and effective methods like filtration, boiling and using water treatment agents like aqua safe and water guard
FACTORS AFFECTING SMALL-SCALE TREE PLANTATION PRACTICES AND THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO THE LIVELYHOOD OF FARMERS IN GUMMER WOREDA, GURAGE ZONE, ETHIOPIA
(HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, 2023-11) HAYDER BIKA
Tree plantation is one of the important issues in Ethiopia as it plays key role in improving the income and productivity of the farmers and contributes to the efforts to reduce the impacts of climatic changes. Similar to other woredas in Ethiopia, small scale tree plantation has been practices by the farmers of Gummer Woreda of Gurage Zone for many years. However, no thorough study has been carried out to determine factors that affect tree plantation practices and their benefits in the woreda. The present study aimed to investigate the factors that affect small scale tree plantation and the contribution of trees to the livelihood of farmers in Gummer Woreda, Gurage Zone. From the 18 kebeles in the woreda, three kebeles were selected purposively and 282 households were selected randomly from the selected kebeles following standard sampling method for interview. Moreover, predetermined number households and experts were purposively selected for key informant interview, group discussion and observation of tree plantations. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test and narrative depending on the types of data. Tables and figures were used to organize and present the analyzed data. The results showed that land holding size, household income, availability of tree seedlings, labor, availability of market, age and genders of the household heads were the main factor that affect tree plantation in the study area. The main sources of income for the households of the study area were crops, trees and their products, domestic animals, daily work and trade. The majority of the households (90%) were categorized under low and middle income based on the wealth differentiation used in the woredas. It was found that farmers planted 13 species of trees that were classified under 13 genera and 10 families. The results also showed farmers most frequently plated exotic trees compared to indigenous ones. In the study areas, trees provide poles, timber, lumber and other materials for construction and furniture making, charcoal and firewood, and used as source of income by selling trees and their products. Trees also provide ecological services such as reducing soil erosion, improving soil fertility, providing shade, maintain suitable climate and as source of traditional medicine for the local community. The results showed that educational level had positive effect on tree plantation. Therefore, it is better to give trainings to the farmers concerning tree plantation and their uses.
Occurrence and distribution of plastic debris along shores sediment of Lake Hawassa, Ethiopia
(HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, 2023-12) Melaku Tessema
Micro-plastic particles are carriers of harmful substances including pathogenic bacteria and potentially invasive species. Their small size enables them to spread from one aquatic environment to another. Plastic pollution has been reported in sediment, surface water, and biota of freshwater systems especially in Europe, North and South America, and Asia with limited studies focusing on Ethiopia lakes. This study therefore investigated the occurrence and distribution of plastic debris along the shore sediment of Lake Hawassa. The occurrence and distribution of plastic debris along the shore sediment of Lake Hawassa was investigated at five sampling site(Tikur Wuha, Fiker haike, Amora gedel, Referral, and Loke) 1 kg of sediment was randomly collected with a stainless steel shovel from a random 1×1m at every sampling sites. Collected samples were immediately transferred to the laboratory and stored at 60°C by sealing in a perfect in Aluminum foil sack. Homogenized 50 g of each dried sediment sample was placed in a 1000 ml glass beaker, and 1.6g/ml zinc chloride in a750 ml was added. The mixture was manually stirred for 5 min, and after settlement the suspension was decanted in a beaker. The result shows that the average micro-plastics abundance in sediment samples ranged from 160 ± 2.55 to 326.67± 0.57 Items/kg. The highest abundance was found in the sediment of the Tikur wuha site about 326.67items/kg, and the lowest was at the Fiker hayik site about 160.00items/kg. MP size classes quantified between 0.25-0.5mm were the most abundant in sediment of all study sites. The most common MP particle types were fragment (41.1%), fibers (30.5%), spherical (12.2%), film (9.1%), and foam (7.1%) and also the large size shape of plastics was listed from the most dominant to smaller fragment, fibers , spherical, foam, and film . The common colors of MP identified were 49.2% white, 29.4% black, 7.6% yellow, 6.6 green, 4.6% red and 2.5 % blue. The plastic spatial distribution revealed major Plastic pollution in areas where recreational and tourism activities have been developed except Fikir Hayik site where low plastic distribution was recorded. These results demonstrated that the Tikur Wuha sites along Lake Hawassa are hotspot area for plastic pollution of the lake and should therefore be targeted for the management of plastic pollution of Lake Hawassa.
GROWTH RESPONSES OF TOMATO (SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM L.) TO INOCULATION OF ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI AND TRICHODERMA HARZIANUM AND APPLICATIONS OF BIOCHAR AND COMPOST IN THE PRESENCE OF FUSARIUM OXYSPORUM FORMAE SPECIALES LYCOPERSICI UNDER GREEN HOUSE, HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, ETHIOPIA
(Hawassa University, 2024-03) BELETECH HABTE AWANO
Tomatoes (Solanun lycopersicum) are one of the most widely cultivated vegetable crops in Ethiopia. Tomato yields in smallholder cropping systems are below the potential of the crop, due to pests and diseases. Therefore, the objective of this research is to study the effect of inoculation of Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Trichoderma harzianum and compost and biochar amendments on tomato biomass, fruit yield and control of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici pathogen under Hawassa University greenhouse. The plants were grown in plastic pots filled with sterilized soils, arranged in a fourteen treatments including the control. A completely randomized design was used and growth measurements and disease severity assessment were taken after 15, 30, and 45 days of transplantation for all growth parameters including fruit yield and effect of the pathogen were measured. During early days of growth for treatments AMF+Fusarium and AMF+Trichoderam was recorded the highest height, leaf area and stem collar diameter for Galilea variety and variable values for ROMA V.F.N variety. When compared to plants treated with F.oxysporum f.sp.l alone and control, improvement in the various growth parameters was recorded in the plants treated with AMF, T. harzianum, biochar, and compost sole and combined. Better fruit yield and pathogen resistance was recorded for Roma variety. In addition to growth parameters all AMF inoculated treatments demonstrated root colonization, and sporulated. Nutrient uptake was enhanced in all treatments except for sole Fusarium and control treatments. Mycorrhizal dependency was better for sole AMF inoculation treatment in both varieties. Disease severity was lower in ROMA variety while Galilea variety was found to be more susceptible to Fusarium pathogen. Accordingly, significant fruit loss was recorded for Galilea variety. AMF and Trichoderma inoculation and application of biochar and compost has improved performance of the two tomato varieties. In addition, it was recorded that ROMA variety is much more resistant to Fusarium pathogen as inoculated with the two bio inoculants, which indicates that different varieties show different resistance to Fusarium pathogen. Therefore, when growing tomato it is recommended to select the appropriate bio pesticides like that of AMF and T. harzianum and appropriate variety of tomatoes. Finally, as this study focused on only two tomato varieties and two bio-inoculants, wide coverage of other bacterial and fungal inoculants production and application in the small holder farms is also recommended.