PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Prof K. A. Okeleye
COLLABORATORS
Dr. M. O. Atayese, College of Plant Science and Crop Production, FUNAAB
Dr Mrs Babalola, College of Plant Science and Crop Production, FUNAAB
Dr A. Oyekanmi, College of Plant Science and Crop Production, FUNAAB
Dr Sakariyawu, College of Plant Science and Crop Production, FUNAAB
Dr. S. O. Adigbo, Institute of Food Security, Agricultural and Environmental Research, FUNAAB
Dr Ajayi, College of Plant Science and Crop Production, FUNAAB
Dr Nwilene, Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), Badeggi
Dr Semon Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), Badeggi
Dr Okonji, College of Plant Science and Crop Production, FUNAAB
PROJECT SUMMARY: The Importance of rice as a staple food in many countries of the world is irrespective of social stratification. Heavy dependence on imports to meet the shortfall in local production of it in Nigeria gulps huge amount of foreign exchange. The current unprecedented high cost of food (including Rice) can catalyse local production and youth development in the country.
The tropical soil of West –Africa is characterized by low fertility expressed in low organic carbon which is generally less than 0.3%, total and available Phosphorus (P) Nitrogen (N) and effective Cation exchange capacity. P & N deficiencies are the most limiting factors for Rice production, this low activity nature of these soils results in a relatively low capacity to fix added phosphorus.
Studies have confirmed improved nutrients uptake in many crops with inoculation of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) resulting in increased growth and productivity of the crops. The project is therefore designed to study the response of Rice to AMF and how it enhances water uptake in stressed conditions.
CURRENT STATUS: On-going