ISPEC Journal of Agricultural Sciences

Effects of Adding Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) In Rations on Fattening Performance and Blood Oxidant-Antioxidant Balance in Rams

Sibel ALAPALA — 2024-12-01

This study aimed to determine the effects of adding fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare) to the diet on the biochemical parameters and live weight gains in rams. Thirty male rams of the Eşme breed, with an average live weight of 39 kg, were used, divided into two groups, each containing 15 rams. The control group received a ration without any additional supplementation, while the treatment group had fennel seeds added to their rations at a rate of 1.5 % per animal per day for 60 days. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected from the sheep to analyze malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl concentrations (PCO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) enzyme activities. The study found a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of daily live weight gain, with the control group showing 0.300 kg and the fennel group showing 0.330 kg. The MDA, SOD, protein, and catalase values were examined in the collected blood samples, revealing significant differences in MDA, SOD, and catalase values, while no significant difference was observed in PCO values. The addition of fennel seeds showed an increase in antioxidant levels and a decrease in lipid peroxidation, which could effectively protect rams from oxidative stress that reduces their productivity and resilience. Moreover, the study concluded that the use of fennel seeds in ram rations did not have any harmful effects.

Investigation of Dry Herbage Yield and Some Quality Characteristics of Sorghum x Sudan Grass Hybrid Varieties Grown Under Semi-Humid Ecological Conditions

Halit TUTAR — 2024-12-01

This research was conducted in the 2019 and 2020 growing seasons to determine the most suitable sorghum x sudan grass hybrid variety or varieties in terms of dry herbage yield and quality characteristics in Bingöl, which has a semi-humid climate. Dry herbage yield (DHY), crude protein ratio (CP), acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), dry matter digestibility (DMD), dry matter intake (DMI) and relative feed value (RFV) were determined for ten sorghum x sudan grass hybrid varieties grown in Bingöl University Faculty of Agriculture, Agricultural Application and Research Center according to coincidence blocks experimental design with 3 replications. In the varieties examined in the research, DHY varied between 12216-16397 kg ha^-1, CP 5.15-8.15 %, ADF 39.43-45.85 %, NDF 51.45-62.89 %, ADL 9.20-13.15 %, DMD 53.18-58.18 %, DMI 1.91-2.33 % and RFV 78.68-104.30. According to the two-year combined averages, the Master BMR variety produced a higher dry herbage yield than the other varieties. Among the varieties, the highest CP, DMI, RFV, and the lowest NDF were obtained in the Master BMR variety. It was concluded that the Master BMR variety gave high values in terms of dry herbage yield and quality characteristics in Bingöl province's ecological conditions.

Trend Analysis of Some Crop Yields and Agro-Meteorologic Drought in the Trakya Region

Çayan ALKAN — 2024-12-01

Drought is one of the most dangerous-meteorologic events affecting agriculture. Drought can be determined by indexes. In this study, the relationship between the Standard Precipitation Index (SPI) results and trend analysis results was examined. Thus, the consistency of the drought in Trakya with the results of the trend analysis was investigated. For this purpose, using the precipitation data of Tekirdag, Kirklareli, and Edirne Meteorological Observation Stations (MOS), drought analysis was done with SPI, trend analysis was done with the help of Mann-Kendall, Sen and Linear Regression methods. In addition, the deviation value of crop yield value from the mean were produced and compared with the drought index result. As a result, the crop most incompatible with the drought results in Trakya is the wheat. In addition, agriculture is not expected to be affected by droughts in Trakya where meteorological drought is not dominant. Edirne is prone to drought while Kirklareli is expected to be prone to humidity, relatively. Nevertheless, there is no significant trend in Trakya in general.

The Effect of Different Planting Times on the Agricultural Characters of Some Safflower Cultivars Planted in Elazig Ecological Conditions

Samet AYIŞIĞI — 2024-12-01

This study was carried out in 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 growing seasons to determine the yield and some yield characteristics of different safflower cultivars at different planting times in Elazig ecological conditions. The planting dates were 25 October, 10 November and 25 November in both years and Dincer, Linas, Olas and Zirkon cultivars were used. Among the agricultural traits examined in this study, winter resistance rate ranged from 4.58-100 %, flower yield ranged from 143.55-508.25 mg plant^-1, plant height ranged from 51.90-82.04 cm, number of lateral branches ranged from 1.71-5.50 pcs plant^-1, number of heads ranged from 3.20-10.01 pcs plant^-1, head diameter ranged from 15.91-24.43 mm, thousand seed weight ranged from 33.73-46.17 g, and seed yield ranged from 23.74-160.96 kg da^-1. In Elazig ecological conditions, it was determined that safflower, which is generally planted as summer safflower, can also be grown as winter safflower, although early sowing causes too much plant loss, planting can be done between 10 November and 30 December, and Dincer and Zirkon varieties came to the fore in this study.

Assessment of Some Physico-Chemical Properties of Cherry Orchard Soils of Andırın- Çiğşar Region

Kadir SALTALI — 2024-12-01

The sustainability of agricultural production is achievable through balanced plant nutrition. Understanding soil properties is essential for plants to be adequately nourished. In this context, soil samples were collected from 24 different points in the orchards of cherry in Çiğşar region of Kahramanmaraş, Andırın district, at depths of 0-30 cm and 30-60 cm using random sampling. Physical (texture, hydraulic conductivity (HI), field capacity (TK), wilting point (DSN), saturation percentage (S), and available water amount (YS)) and chemical (pH, lime, salt, organic matter (OM), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P₂O₅), potassium (K₂O), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn)) analyses were conducted on the soil samples. Average pH, lime, OM, TK, DSN, YS, HI and SY of the soils at 0-30 and 30-60 cm soil depth, respectively; It was determined as 8.01-8.05, 24.6-24.5 %, 3.39-3.21 %, 34.9-34.6 %, 22.6-22.1 %, 12.2-12.5 %, 0.67-0.73 cm/hour, 47.5-47.3 %. The average macro (Ca, Mg, K₂O and P₂O₅) and micro (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn) element contents of the soils (0-30 and 30-60 cm) were generally in the sufficient or excess class. According to the dependent t test for the upper and lower depths of the soil, pH, K₂O, Cu and Mn variables were found to be statistically different from each other (p<0.05). As a result, when the soils of the region are evaluated in general, it can be said that the factors that negatively affect cherry nutrition, yield and quality are high pH, lime and clay content. Therefore, in areas with high clay, pH and lime, it may be recommended to apply materials such as organic matter (animal manure, compost, leonardite), humic acid and sulfur.

Determination of Fungi and Apple Fruit Contamination in the Room Atmosphere in Traditional Cold Storages in Isparta Province

Süleyman Cengizhan YÜCEER — 2024-12-01

In this study, it was aimed to determine the fungal microflora and apple rot rates in two different room atmospheres of two different cold storages in Eğirdir, Gelendost and Senirkent districts of Isparta province. For this reason, fungi in the storage room atmosphere were captured by the trap medium method and colony numbers were determined at the genus level. The number of rots and rot rates (%) in veriety of Golden Delicious fruits in crates in the storage rooms were determined for each district. The fungal genera were identified as Penicillium, Botrytis, Alternaria, Aspergillus, Geotrichum and some types of yeast according to the morphological characteristics. The rates of fungal species in the apple warehouse atmosphere varied between districts and warehouses. The most commonly isolated fungus in the storage rooms was Penicillium spp. Accordingly, the rot rates in apple fruits placed in storage also varied. As a result of the study, it was concluded that the reasons for this change vary depending on the apple variety placed in the warehouse and the hygiene and sanitation measures taken at the beginning and end of the season in the warehouses.

Determination of The Effect of Nitrogenous Fertilization on Grain Quality Characterıstics in Wheat

Fevzi ALTUNER — 2024-12-01

This research was carried out in the Tevekli Neighborhood rural area of Van Tusba District in the summer growing season of 2020 to determine the effects of four nitrogenous fertilizer doses (0 kg da⁻¹ N, (N0: control), 8 kg da⁻¹ N (N8), 12 kg da⁻¹ N (N12) and 16 kg da⁻¹ N (N16)) on some physiological properties (ash, moisture, starch, protein, cellulose and oil) of local (Bahare and Kose) and commercial (Seri-82 and Cemre) bread wheat varieties. The research was designed according to the split-plot design in randomized blocks with three replications, with N doses in the main plots and varieties in the subplots. During the heading period, live plant leaves were measured with the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) sensor, and leaf observations were made. According to the research results; the differences between the other characteristics examined except for grain moisture data were statistically significant (P˂0.05). According to the interactions, the highest values were obtained from N12 x Cemre (0.320) and N16 x Kose in the same group in NDVI data, N0 x Bahre (1.036 %) and N12 x Bahare in the same group in ash ratios, N12 x Seri (44.704 %) and N12 x Cemre and N16 x Cemre in the same group in starch ratios, N12 x Bahare (15.901 %) in protein ratios, N16 x Kose (4.019 %) in cellulose ratios and N0 x Cemre (2.592 %) in oil ratios and five interactions in the same group. No statistically significant effect of N doses was observed on other examined traits except grain moisture and protein ratios. The grain moisture ratio was obtained from the highest N0 dose (8.788 %), and the protein ratio was obtained from other doses except N0. The effect of varieties on other properties except ash and oil contents in grain was found to be statistically insignificant (P˃0.05). Bahare local variety had high values in ash ratio and commercial varieties had high values in oil ratio. It is thought that low rainfall and high temperatures during the season effectively obtained low results.

Detection of Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV) in Antalya Province Lettuce Production Areas by Serological and Molecular Methods

Handan ÇULAL KILIÇ — 2024-12-01

This study was conducted to determine of Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) in lettuce production areas in Antalya province in 2023 year. This study was planned as a result of receiving complaints from regional producers about TSWV-like symptoms in lettuce production areas in recent years. The presence of MWMV was determined by serological and molecular methods. Collected samples suspected to be TSWV were firstly tested with DAS-ELISA (Double-antibody sandwich enzyme linked immunosorbent assay) test. ELISA tests showed that among 92 samples, 39 were infected with TSWV and infection ratio for TSWV was determined as 42.39% of the field samples. In the study, 5 plant samples representing the regions were used for total RNA extraction and tested by RT-PCR (Reverse transcription polimerase chain reaction) for TSWV. The respected size of band with 276 bp in 4 samples was observed on agarose gel electrophoresis for TSWV. No band formation was observed in one isolate (Aksu isolate) and negative control.

Determination of Antioxidant Activities of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench. Plant Extracts Harvested at Different Times

Rabia Vildan ŞAHİN — 2024-12-01

This research was carried out to determine the antioxidant activities of extracts obtained from plant parts of Echinacea purpurea L. (Moench) species harvested at different times. In the preparation of plantation, seeds for seedling production were planted in peat-containing pots on 24 April 2012. Rooted seedlings were planted in the experimental area in May. After planting, necessary cultural practices (irrigation, hoeing, etc.) of the plants were performed in 2013, 2014 and 2015. In this study, cone, leaf, flower and root parts of Echinacea plant harvested at different times between September 2014 and August 2015 were used. This study was conducted using the cone, leaf, flower, and root parts of the echinacea plant. While the cone, leaf and flower parts were harvested on 3 different dates, namely 24 July, 6 August and 19 August, the root part was harvested only once on 10 October. In this study, it was stated that the antioxidant activities of Echinacea purpurea species vary depending on the harvest period and the organs of the plant. The values of the highest total phenolic content and total flavonoid compound content were calculated. These values were determined as 59.107 mg GAE g^-1 extract and 1807.286 mg QE g^-1 extract, respectively. The lowest DPPH value was found to be 1.157 mg mL^-1. These datas were found for the flower parts of the plant from the first harvest time, the leaf parts from the second harvest period and the flower parts from the second harvest date, respectively.

Investigation of Some Antibiotic Residue Levels in Honey Produced in Ardahan Province

Ertan DOĞAN — 2024-12-01

Beekeeping has been a major agricultural activity since ancient times. The importance of beekeeping is still present in our country, just like in other parts of the world. Honey, beeswax, pollen, propolis, royal jelly, and bee venom are the products produced by beekeeping. Honey is particularly important for human nutrition among these. It is crucial that the honey is free of antibiotics and other residues for this reason. The purpose of this study is to determine the level of residues of certain antibiotics (tetracycline and sulfonamide group) in honey produced in Ardahan province. As part of the research, honey samples from beekeepers in Ardahan and its counties (Göle, Çıldır, Hanak, Damal, and Posof) were collected in August 2023. 90 honey samples were collected from 15 different apiaries operating in each settlement. The residue level of tetracycline and sulfonamide group antibiotics in the honey samples collected directly from the producers was determined using the ELISA method. In this study, tetracycline and sulfonamide group antibiotic residues were not found in any of the 6 centers sampled, namely Ardahan, Göle, Çıldır, Hanak, Damal, and Posof. The research concluded that the honey that is produced in Ardahan province is safe for human health. It is thought that it would be useful to provide training to beekeepers on the subject in order to maintain healthy honey (free of antibiotics and other residues) production in Ardahan province.

Identification of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) Isolated from Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia L.) and Determination of Their Antifungal Activity against Fusarium oxysporum

Murat GÜLER — 2024-12-01

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) have a variety of beneficial activities, including improved nutrient absorption, phytohormone regulation, and biological control of phytopathogens. Sixteen isolates from the Lavandula angustifolia L. rhizosphere were screened for their morphological, biochemical, and plant growth promoting properties in this study. Isolates were identified using the MALDI-TOF MS method. Additionally, its antagonistic properties against the phytopathogen Fusarium oxysporum were evaluated. Among all isolates, 10 isolates (QLN-1, QLN-2, QLN-5, QLN-6, QLN-7, QLN-8, QLN-11, QLN-13, QLN-14, QLN-15) fixed nitrogen, 11 isolates (QLN-2, QLN-4, QLN-5, QLN-6, QLN-7, QLN-8, QLN-12, QLN-13, QLN-14, QLN-15, QLN-16) dissolved inorganic phosphate, 8 isolates (QLN-1, QLN-2, QLN-6, QLN-7, QLN-9, QLN-12, QLN-14, QLN-16) produced siderophore, 9 isolates (QLN-2, QLN-3, QLN-4, QLN-6, QLN -7, QLN-8, QLN-12, QLN-15, QLN-16) produced IAA and 6 isolates (QLN-5, QLN-8, QLN-9, QLN-14, QLN-15, QLN-16) produced HCN. Isolate QLN-4 showed the highest antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum with an inhibition rate of 57.14 %. Isolate QLN-8 isolate (24.76 %) showed the weakest effect against F. oxysporum. Although research on PGPRs has increased recently, research on lavender is still limited. Our study reveals that local bacterial isolates obtained from lavender rhizosphere can be used as microbial fertilizers and biocontrol agents.

Achene and Flower Characteristics of Some Centaurea Species Collected from Diyarbakır (Türkiye)

Hülya HOŞGÖREN — 2024-12-01

In this study, belonging to the genus Centaurea L. collected from Diyarbakır and its surroundings were investigated flower structures and the achene micro and macro morphology of 10 species [C. solstitialis L., C. iberica Trev. Ex Sprengel, C. urvillei ssp nimrodis (Boiss. & Hausskn.) Wagenitz, C. consanguinea DC. (E), C. behen L, C. rigida Banks & Sol., C. balsamita Lam., C. kurdica Reichardt (E), C. stapfiana (Hand.-Mazz.) Wagenitz, C. virgata Lam.]. Among the ten species studied, five have yellow flowers C. solstitialis, C. behen, C. rigida, C. balsamita, C. stapfiana and the other five C. iberica, C. urvillei ssp nimrodis, C. consanguinea, C. kurdica, C. stapfiana, C. virgata have pink-purple flowers. It has been found that phyllaries on the involucrum bearing the flowers are typically characterized by horn-like spines or protrusions. As it is well-established that seed and fruit structures are key features used in taxonomy, achene and pappus structures were examined in this study, and measurements were taken with a digital caliper. The results of measurement and SEM imaging reveal that the macro structure of achene differs significantly from its micro structure. This suggests that traits are of great importance and can be used in taxonomic diagnosis.

Isolation and Identification of Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) from the Rhizosphere of Thymus vulgaris L.

Murat GÜLER — 2024-12-01

Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria dissolve insoluble form of phosphate in the soil with different mechanisms, converting them into a form that can be used, and replaced by chemical fertilizers providing beneficial use of a natural reserve. Although research on phosphate solubilizing bacteria has increased recently, research on the thyme rhizosphere is still limited. It is necessary to investigate different rhizospheric local bacteria that can solubilize phosphate and replace chemical fertilizers. 42 bacterial isolates were obtained from the rhizosphere of Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) in this study. Among these isolates, 13 phosphate-solubilizing bacterial isolates were selected which formed a transparent (halo) region around the colonies on Pikovskaya’s Agar (PKA) plates. Isolates were identified using the MALDI-TOF MS method. The morphological, biochemical and IAA production of these isolates as well as quantitative measurements of phosphate solubilization of the isolates in NBRIP broth medium was evaluated. The highest efficiency was noted from Bacillus pumilus PCB-6 with solubilization value of 326.8 ppm. This was followed by Acinetobacter calcoaceticus PCB-3 with solubilization value of 313.8 ppm and Pantoeae agglomerans PCB-4 with solubilization value of 307.4 ppm, respectively. Among the Phosphate solubilizing bacterial isolates, P solubilization index was defined as between 1.6 and 4.2 on PKA agar medium. Additionally, the highest IAA production, at 18.43 µg ml^-1, was obtained from Pantoeae agglomerans PCB-4. This was followed by Bacillus pumilus PCB-6 with 17.40 µg ml^-1 and Acinetobacter calcoaceticus PCB-3 with 16.71 µg ml^-1. This study clearly shows that selected local isolates can be used as effective phosphate-based microbial fertilizers.

The Impact of Different Planting Systems in Maize-Mung Bean Production on the Silage Quality and Fermentation in Second Product Conditions

Fatma AKBAY — 2024-12-01

Cultivation of one or more non-similar plants together in the same order or in different orders is called “intercropping”. The study was conducted to study the impact of different cultivation patterns (sole maize (%100 mazie), sole mung bean (100 % mung bean), 1M + 1MFS (50 % maize + 50 % mung bean), 1M + 1MFA (100 % maize + 100 % mung bean), 2M + 1MFA (100 % maize + 50 % mung bean), 3M + 1MFA (100 % maize + 33 % mung bean) and 3M + 1MFS (75 % maize + 25 % mung bean) on the yield and silage quality of maize+mung beans on the same row in Kahramanmaraş ecological conditions. The trial randomized blocks were carried out in three repetitions according to the trial pattern. Total forage yield 315.48-7429.46 kg da^-1, silage dry matter (T₆₀) ratio 24.27-31.45 %, silage pH 3.81-4.86, lactic acid bacterial count 4.54-5.74 (log10 cfu g silage^-1), yeast count 3.80-6.31 (log10 cfu g silage^-1). Protein content of varied from 6.09 to 14.55 %, NDF content from 43.62 to 50.44 %, and ADF contents from 26.06 to 30.91 %. The research resulted in an increase in quality raw forage production, combined with the production system. As a result of the findings obtained, 3M+1MFA planting system is recommended for high forage yield and a quality silage in the second product conditions.

The Biological Activities of Hypericum perforatum L.

Şükrü CANPOLAT — 2024-12-01

Representing the Hypericaceae family, Hypericum perforatum L. offers antidepressant, wound-healing, antioxidant, antiviral, and analgesic properties for burns, bruising, and edema. With the demise of many current treatment choices and the worrying levels of antibiotic resistance produced by dangerous bacteria, new therapy approaches are required. This study focused on H. perforatum plant's total phenolic content, antioxidant capability, and antibacterial activity. The fatty acid composition and phytochemical constituents in H. perforatum were also analyzed by GC-MS. The antibacterial activity of the plant’s methanol extract was evaluated using disc diffusion method. Microorganisms utilized in the antibacterial activity assay included the fungus Candida albicans, bacteria strains Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella typhimurium. It was determined that H. perforatum's methanol extract exhibited remarkable antagonistic activity against the examined pathogenic microorganisms with the lowest and strongest antibacterial effects against S. typhimurium and P. aeruginosa, respectively. The Folin-Ciocalteu phenol reagent method was used to quantify the phenolic compounds, and H. perforatum methanol extract was shown to have a total phenolic compound content of 1538.98±11.88 µg GAE mL^-1. The antioxidant capability was evaluated with three different methods. The methanol extract of the plant exhibited a 1552.74±3.85 µmol TE mL^-1 DPPH radical scavenging activity while it showed 2876.92±15.46 µmol AAE mL^-1 and 3307.84±45.87 µmol TE mL^-1 PFRAP and CUPRAC values, respectively. The GC-MS analysis revealed that palmitic acid and linolenic acid were the predominant fatty acid species, along with the major phytochemical contituents were found as linalyl acetate and alpha-pinene.

Effect of Adding Different Rates of Bee Pollen to Quail Rations on Performance and Carcass Parameters

Tuncay TUFAN — 2024-12-01

This study was conducted to determine the effects of different amounts of pollen added to quail (Coturnix Coturnix Japonica) diets on fattening performance, some carcass, and internal organ parameters. In this study, 625 one-day-old mixed-sex Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) chicks were used as animal material. The quail chicks were randomly divided into 5 main groups of 125 chicks each and each main group was divided into 5 subgroups of 25 chicks. According to the feed groups; the control group (C) was fed with the basic ration, while the trial (Trial I, II, III, and IV) groups were formed by adding pollen to the basic ration at different rates (0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.00%). In the 42-day study, quails were reared in cages with dimensions of 96x46x25 cm. At the end of the research, the PI group was found to be significantly higher than the C group in terms of live weight, live weight gain, and feed conversion ratio (P<0.001), while no statistical difference was detected between the groups in terms of feed consumption. Among the carcass parameters, slaughter weight (P<0.001), hot and cold carcass weight (P<0.01), and breast weight (P<0.05) were found to be statistically higher in the PI group than in the C group. Among the visceral organ weights, the PI group was determined to be higher than the C group in terms of intestine weight. As a result, considering the overall experiment, it is recommended to use 0.25% pollen in quail rations due to its positive effect on fattening and performance, some carcass parameters, and intestinal weight.

Anfis Based Reference Evapotranspiration (ET0) Estimation Using Limited and Different Climate Parameters

Mualla KETEN GÖKKUŞ — 2024-12-01

This study aims to estimate the reference evapotranspiration (ET₀) with adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The calculation of ET₀ requires climate data such as maximum and minimum temperature, wind speed, sunshine duration and humidity. Sometimes it may not be possible to access the climate data. In the study, ET₀ is estimated with ANFIS by using fewer input parameters. Moreover, it is proved that it is possible to calculate ET₀ via ANFIS by using some other climate parameters such as temperature-humidity-wind index (THW), air pressure, wind chill, which have no direct effect on the calculation of ET₀. In the study, five scenarios were created and evaluated with a statistical performance indicator. In Scenario 1, ET₀ was estimated using THW, air pressure and air density. The relationship between the ET0 estimated by ANFIS and the calculated ET₀ was found to be 0.76 (R²). In Scenario 2, THW, solar energy and solar radiation were used and R² was found to be 0.66. Scenario 3 used THW and wind chill, resulting in an R² of 0.43. In Scenario 4, THW and maximum temperature were used and R² was 0.87. In Scenario 5, THW and humidity were used and the R² with ET0 was 0.84.

Possibilities of Using Peach Pulp as a Carbohydrate Source in Alfalfa Silages

Tamer KAYAR — 2024-12-01

In this study, it was aimed to determine the effects of peach pulp addition at different doses on the chemical composition and fermentation characteristics of alfalfa silages. In this study, peach pulp was added to alfalfa silages at 0 % (control), 5 % and 10 % levels. When the data obtained from the study were evaluated, peach pulp addition decreased the dry matter and crude protein content of the silages (P<0.001). In addition, 5% peach pulp addition caused a decrease in NDF (P<0.05) and ADF (P<0.01) contents compared to the control group. Lactic acid (P<0.05), acetic acid (P<0.001), propionic acid (P<0.001), butyric acid (P<0.01) contents were the lowest in the control group, while the pH content was the lowest in the group with 5 % peach pulp (P<0.05). At the end of the study, it was concluded that the effects on alfalfa silages should be evaluated using different doses and/or extraction methods.

The Forming with Seasonal Time Series Analysis of the Ayran Production Model in Türkiye

Şenol ÇELİK — 2024-12-01

This study was conducted to model the monthly series of ayran production amount in Türkiye. ARIMA (p, d, q) (P, D, Q)_s model was used in modeling the monthly production series for the period January 2010 April 2024. In selecting the appropriate model, whether the residuals calculated from ARIMA (p, d, q) (P, D, Q)_s models were independent or not was taken into consideration. For this reason, Ljung-Box Q(r) statistics and p (probability) values were determined for the suitability of the model. The model of the monthly production series was created and the model was considered appropriate since the p value was greater than 5 % (p= 0.145). When the stationarity of the series was examined, it was seen that the series was not stationary at level and became stationary by taking its first difference and first seasonal difference. As a result of the analysis, it was revealed that the ARIMA (0, 1, 2) (0, 1, 0)₁₂ model is suitable for prediction. In other words, a second-order integrated seasonal moving average model was obtained. The coefficients of the model were calculated as 0.277 and 0.255. The equation of the model is . Using the proposed model, monthly ayran production forecast for the period May 2024-December 2025 was calculated. As a result of the forecast, the production amount for the 2024 May-2025 December period is expected to be between 77529-99349 tons. As a result, when the monthly ayran production examined was evaluated, there was generally an increase in production between March and August, and a decreasing trend in production continued between September and February. The forecast results for 2025 also support this situation.

Stimulatory Effects of Different Seed Priming Treatments on Germination and Early Seedling Growth of Sugar Beet

Nilüfer KOÇAK ŞAHİN — 2024-12-01

As known, seed germination constitutes the first stage in plant production, and the rapidness of this trait is important for the agriculture of the sugar beet. Particularly, it is crucial to realize after the winter and cool weather. The main aim of the study was to accelerate seedling growth by germinating them observe their effects on plant emergence, and improve seed viability using Serenada, Aranka, and Lider sugar beet varieties treated with hydropriming, hormonal priming, and organic priming for 6, 12, and 18 h under room temperature and humidity conditions. The study showed that the behavior of treated seeds was significantly different compared to the control treatment. The germination percentage, mean germination time, shoot length and root length ranged between 85.50-95.00 (%), 2.80-4.49 (days), 6.34-9.82 (cm), and 3.73-9.12 (cm) respectively. Seedling fresh and dry weight changed between 57.88-89.66 (mg plant^-1), and 5.02-12.31 (mg plant^-1) in the same order. The best results in germination percentage, mean germination time, root length, and maximum seedling dry weight were obtained after seaweed treatments for 18 h, for seedling length seedling fresh weight. It is concluded that growth parameters are genotype-dependent. Used genotypes in this experiment showed different responses for the investigated agronomic characters (with the priming treatments), and they can be used in any local sugar beet programs for the investigated traits with a carefully selected depending on the objectives of the study.

Microbiological Analysis in Terms of Animal Nutrition Fish of Meal Produced in the Black Sea Region in Türkiye

Ahmet TEKELİ — 2024-12-01

Fish meal is obtained by processing and drying fish that are not suitable for human consumption or waste left over from the fishing industry. Fish meal creates a suitable breeding environment for microorganisms due to both the high level of nutrients they contain and the processes applied during production. Aerobic Colony Count (Cob g^-1) of fish meal obtained from four different factories (A, B, C and D) producing fish meal in the Black Sea region were determined as 4.9x10⁵, 9.7x10⁴, 2.76x10⁵ and 9.8x10², respectively. Enterobacteria Colony Count (Cfu g^-1) and Coliform Bacteria Count E. coli (Cob g^-1) levels were similarly found to be <10. Both Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. wasn’t detected in fish meals. While Rhizopus spp. and Trichoderma spp. fungi were detected in fish meal obtained from only one factory. Fusarium spp. and Penicillium spp. fungi were detected in all fish meals. Total Organism Numbers vary between 7x10³ and 5x10⁴ Colonies/ml. According to macroscopic and microscopic examinations, no material that should not be included in feed for animal nutrition, especially mold, was found in fish meal. As a result, it is seen that the fish meal produced in the Black Sea Region of Turkey is of extremely high quality in terms of microbiological and macroscopik and is also suitable for animal nutrition. Therefore, in this study was pointed out to the microbiological content and quality of fish meal in the Black Sea Region, where a significant portion of fish meal is produced in our country.

Opinion of Academicians Regarding the Use of the CRISPR-Cas System in Türkiye

Esra BİLİCİ — 2024-12-01

The field of gene control is huge and still much unexplored, and one way to modify and alter genes is called CRISPR. The purpose of this study is to discuss the application of the CRISPR-Cas system in Turkey and find out what genetics professors think about it, as it has been a hot topic lately. The study's findings came from a survey that was given to 26 academicians who agreed to engage in the research and are recognized authorities in their professions. According to 74.1 % of participants, CRISPR-Cas 9 was not well known in the Turkish genetics community and was only known by those in the field. The participants stated that the CRISPR method can be used to treat cancer and many genetic diseases 100 % of the time, to breed animals for high-yield breeds in animal husbandry 100 % of the time, to provide resistance and protection against many infectious diseases 84.6 % of the time, and to improve animal welfare 88.8 % of the time. Although 76.9 % of experts said that there is room for ethical debate over the use of CRISPR, 92.3 % of experts predicted that gene-edited animal farms will be built in the near future. A sizable majority of participants 92.3 % said that Turkey must develop and apply the CRISPR method to stay ahead of developed nations in genetic science, as well as for application in animal breeding and the treatment of genetic illnesses. Therefore, even if CRISPR technology has benefits and drawbacks, it's critical to create legislative guidelines that consider the environment, public health, food safety, global trade, and the moral implications of the CRISPR technique.

Aflatoxin Risk in Pepper Crops and Flaked Pepper in Southeastern Anatolia, Turkey

Hayrettin ÖZER — 2024-12-01

The formation of aflatoxins in agricultural products, especially in peppers used as spices, has been determined that the products are affected by various stages from the field to the spice. These toxins are formed when fungi belonging to the genus Aspergillus spp. colonize the plant during the growing stage and produce aflatoxins. Post-harvest processes, especially drying and storage, significantly affect aflatoxin levels. Toxin accumulation can increase when drying processes are not carried out under appropriate conditions, while during storage, factors such as humidity and temperature can promote aflatoxin production. The aim of this study was to determine the risk of aflatoxin in pepper plants and chili peppers used as spices. Various aflatoxin species were detected in the analysis of samples taken from pepper fields and spice shops in Southeastern Anatolia, Turkey. While AFG1 and AFG2 were found in one of the 15 chili pepper samples, AFB2 was detected between 0.0125 and 0.1875 ppb in 11 samples and AFB1 was detected between 0.1125 and 3.95 ppb in 13 samples. Total aflatoxin content ranged from a minimum of 0.15 ppb to a maximum of 4.1375 ppb with an average of 0.9455 ppb. In addition, when the aflatoxin contents of Aspergillus spp. fungi obtained from pepper plants taken from the field were analyzed, the presence of AFB1 and AFB2 was detected in some samples. These findings suggest that aflatoxin formation starts at the growing stage of peppers and that harvesting, drying and storage processes can increase toxin levels. Therefore, these processes need to be carefully managed and controlled to minimize aflatoxin risk.

Effect of Cadmium Toxicity on Some Physiological and Biochemical Properties of the Sage Plant (Salvia officinalis L.)

Sema KARAKAŞ DİKİLİTAŞ — 2024-12-01

High cadmium (Cd) levels in the growing environment cause physiological deterioration in plants and negatively affect plant development. In this study, physiological, oxidative stress indicators and antioxidant enzyme activities of Sage (Salvia officinalis L.) plants grown at different Cd doses (0 (control), 100, and 200 ppm) were examined to determine the plant's response and tolerance to Cd stress. When the development of plants treated with Cd was discussed, the fresh and dry weights of stems and roots were significantly reduced compared to the control. Specifically, applying 200 ppm Cd resulted in a 79 % reduction in plant dry weight and a 58 % reduction in root dry weight. Application of high Cd concentrations decreased chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid contents by 44 %, 65 %, and 54 %, respectively, compared to the control. Furthermore, the relative water content of leaves decreased by 15 % at 100 ppm Cd and 33 % at 200 ppm Cd compared to the control. The levels of hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, and electrolyte leakage, which are important indicators of oxidative stress, showed a significant increase with Cd applications. The maximum values of these parameters were achieved with a Cd dose of 200 ppm. 200 ppm Cd increased anthocyanin content by 115 % and phenolic content by 47 %. Furthermore, Cd treatment of plants resulted in significant changes in the activities of antioxidant enzymes. While an increase in peroxidase (1.8-fold) and catalase activities (3.1-fold) was observed in plants treated with 200 ppm Cd, a significant decrease in ascorbate peroxidase activity was observed. This study revealed the physiological and biochemical responses of sage to Cd toxicity and the results suggest that sage is resistant to 100 ppm Cd. The study provides important insights into the use of sage as a remediation material in Cd-contaminated soils.

An Empirical Analysis of the Relationship Between Agricultural Revenue and Tax Burden

Şahin AY — 2024-12-01

The concept of total tax burden, derived by calculating the ratio of all taxes collected within a specific period to the Gross National Product (GNP), serves as a key indicator of a country's level of development and its fiscal policies. Agricultural revenue holds a significant position within the GNP. Another critical point is the scale of taxes generated from agricultural production. This study aims to empirically analyze the relationship between the tax burden and agricultural revenue. For this purpose, data from the Turkish economy covering the period from 1965 to 2022 has been utilized. The empirical analysis reveals a long-term cointegrated relationship between the series. According to the coefficient estimators, it was found that, for the period covered by the study, there is an inverse relationship between the tax burden and agricultural revenue. In other words, increases in the tax burden have been shown to decrease agricultural revenue.