Authors : J.C. Obi , A.O. Ogunkunle and T.O. Ibia
Abstract: Effects of termite infestation results in highly modified soil profile and characteristic that could affect soil fertility and crop production. This study therefore assessed the suitability of termite-infested soils for maize (Zea mays L.), guinea corn (Sorghum bicolor), millet (Pennisetum glaucum) and cassava (Manihot esculenta) production. The study was conducted in Mokwa and Kontagora area of Niger State, Nigeria. Soil profile samples were analysed in the laboratory for physical and chemical parameters. The soil and environmental characteristics generated were used for parametric suitability evaluations. It was observed that all the plots were not suitable for maize production except the non-infested at Kontagora that was marginally suitable. All the plots were marginally suitable for millet and guinea corn production with the exception of non-infested plots that were potentially moderately suitable for millet production. Both Termite-infested and non infested plots were marginally suitable (actual) and potentially moderately suitable for cassava production. Major constraints were coarse sandy texture and low CEC for all crops in addition to rainfall for cassava. Macrotermitinae nigeriensis dominant in the area characteristically deplete soil organic matter that could form organic matter-clay complex, improve soil structure, enhance CEC, ability to adsorb and make plant nutrients available.
J.C. Obi , A.O. Ogunkunle and T.O. Ibia , 2008. Suitability of Termite Infested Soils in the Guinea Savanna Region of Nigeria for Arable Crop Production. Agricultural Journal, 3: 418-424.