Effects of rumen digesta on the physico - chemical properties of soils in Nsukka, southeastern Nigeria

Edeh I.G., Igwe C.A. and Ezeaku P.I.
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Edeh I.G.: University of Nigeria
Igwe C.A.: University of Nigeria
Ezeaku P.I.: University of Nigeria

Russian Journal of Agricultural and Socio-Economic Sciences, 2015, vol. 40, issue 4, 3-11

Abstract: In tropical and subtropical areas, the importance of organic manure in improving soil physico-chemical properties and crop production for food security cannot be overemphasized. A study was conducted during 2012/2013 crop years to investigate the effects of rumen digesta on the physical and chemical properties of soils in Nsukka, Enugu state Nigeria. The soil samples collected from Opi, Nsukka were treated to four rates of rumen digesta (viz. 0, 50, 100, and 150 gkg soils). Physical and chemical properties of the soil were determined pre and post-experiment. The results obtained revealed that rumen digesta significantly (p = 0.05) increased the mean weight diameter (0.49 to 1.75mm), aggregate stability (54.7% to 75.3%), soil pH (3.8 to 7.8), total nitrogen (0.01% to 0.02%), exchangeable sodium and potassium (0.22 to 4.39cmolkg for Na + and 0.30cmolkg to 4.31 for K +), CEC (7.2 to 14.9cmolkg -) and organic matter content (0.97% to 4.29%). It had no significant effect on the texture, micro-aggregate (measured as dispersion ratio), exchangeable calcium and magnesium content of the soils. The study found significant reduction in the exchangeable aluminum (1.5 to 0.0cmolkg -) and hydrogen content (3.7 to 2.2cmolkg -) of the soils. It recommended that farmers can improve the physical and chemical properties of soils by using rumen digesta as an alternative liming material.

Keywords: RUMEN DIGESTA; SOIL PROPERTIES; EVALUATION; RURAL LAND; NSUKKA-NIGERIA (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2015
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