Department of Biology

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Assessing medicinal uses of the selected medicinal plants and impact of anthropogenic effects on their distribution in eastern Uganda.
(Busitema University, 2026) Wanjala, Enos
This study assessed the medicinal uses of seven selected medicinal plant species (Zanthoxylum chalybeum, Kigelia africana, Maytenus senegalensis, Warburgia ugandensis, Mondia whitei, Croton macrostachyus and Albizia coriaria) and examined the impact of anthropogenic activities on their distribution in the eastern and north-eastern region of Uganda. A mixed-methods ethnobotanical and ecological approach combined semi-structured interviews and field inventory of 46 informants drawn from six districts (Katakwi, Napak, Moroto, Tororo, Bungokho North and Namisindwa) with transect and quadrat sampling of plant occurrence in relation to land use and environmental variables. Six of the seven targeted species were actively documented; Croton macrostachyus was not encountered during the survey. Kigelia africana was the most frequently cited species (30.4% of use-reports), followed by Zanthoxylum chalybeum (26.1%) and Maytenus senegalensis (21.7%). The documented species were most commonly used to treat malaria (32.6%), measles (28.3%) and stomach pain (26.1%). Roots (65.2%) and bark (50.0%) were the plant parts most heavily harvested, and root digging (43.5%) and debarking (37.0%) were the dominant, and most destructive, harvesting methods. Charcoal/firewood cutting (76.7%) and general habitat loss from land-use change (73.2%) were the anthropogenic threats most widely reported by respondents, followed by agricultural expansion, livestock grazing and invasive species. More than half of respondents (56.5%) confirmed that harvested material entered commercial trade, compounding harvest pressure. The descriptive evidence gathered is inconsistent with the null hypothesis of no relationship between anthropogenic activity and plant distribution, and instead supports the view that harvesting for medicine, fuel wood extraction and land conversion are associated with the observed decline in availability of these species, particularly Mondia whitei and Warburgia ugandensis. Despite this pressure, willingness among respondents to participate in conservation was high (85.4%), with community sensitization the overwhelmingly preferred intervention (73.9%). The study recommends promoting sustainable harvesting techniques, domestication and cultivation of the documented species, community-based sensitization programmes, regulation of fuel wood-driven removal of medicinal trees, and further ecological and phytochemical research to corroborate these perception-based findings.
Impact of anthropogenic stressors on ecosystem health and potential in-stream restoration measures of river Manafwa catchment in eastern Uganda.
(Busitema University, 2026) Wamono, Emma
River ecosystems in tropical highland catchments are increasingly affected by interacting land-use pressures that alter water quality, habitat condition and aquatic biodiversity. This study assessed anthropogenic pressures and short-term in-stream restoration responses in the River Manafwa catchment, eastern Uganda. Specifically, it examined physicochemical water quality, macroinvertebrate assemblages, community perceptions, and the performance of pool–riffle and woody in-stream structures. Guided by pragmatism and three complementary theoretical lenses, the study combined repeated wet- and dry-season biophysical monitoring at nine land-use sites, a cross-sectional community survey and key-informant interviews (n = 247), and a short-term restoration trial at Nakokolo and Khuboda between March and September 2025. Water-quality variables were analysed using inferential statistics and multivariate ordination; macroinvertebrate assemblages were assessed using SASS5/ASPT and diversity metrics; community data were analysed descriptively and by factor analysis; and restoration responses were compared across structure type and season. Land use and season significantly structured several physicochemical variables (p < 0.05), and the water-quality PCA separated forested reference reaches from more disturbed agricultural, urban and car-washing sites. Macroinvertebrate assemblages also differed among sites, with the natural-forest reference reach showing high biological integrity (ASPT about 9.8) and the cassava site lower integrity (ASPT about 5.9); multivariate ordination reinforced this ecological separation. Community respondents showed high awareness of environmental degradation (mean awareness score 4.44 ± 0.65), while ten retained perception factors explained approximately 65% of total variance and revealed an awareness–action gap also reflected in key-informant accounts. The restoration trial produced measurable short-term responses: pool–riffle sequences supported 2,256 individuals and 33 families, while woody structures supported 1,887 individuals and 22 families, with multivariate patterns indicating complementary physicochemical and biological responses across seasons. The study concludes that River Manafwa ecosystem condition is shaped by interacting land-use, seasonal, biological and social processes. It recommends pollution source control, riparian protection, participatory catchment governance, and longer-term replicated evaluation of nature-based restoration before catchment-wide scaling.
Isolation and identification of bacteria from ready-to-eat foods from markets in Nagongera town council, Tororo district Uganda.
(Busitema University, 2026) Muwanguzi, Allan Baleero
The informal ready-to-eat (RTE) food sector in Nagongera Town Council, Tororo District, serves as a critical source of affordable and convenient nutrition for low-income earners, travellers, and the student community of Busitema University. However, poor hygienic handling practices and environmental deficiencies raise significant concerns about the transmission of foodborne pathogens. This study assessed the microbiological safety of selected ready-to-eat foods sold in Nagongera markets. A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted between March to May 2026, during which thirty ready-to-eat food samples comprising ten fast-fried foods, ten fresh fruits, and ten raw vegetables were collected using a simulated consumer purchase approach across three commercial zones (Areas A, B, and C). Microbiological analysis was performed using conventional culture-based serial dilutions on Nutrient Agar, MacConkey Agar, and Eosin Methylene Blue agar. Bacterial isolates were identified using Gram staining, catalase tests, and Triple Sugar Iron agar biochemical profiling. Mean Total Viable Counts (TVC) were 5.89 log10CFU/g for fast foods, 6.11 log10 CFU/g for fruits, and 6.05 log10CFU/g for vegetables. Mean Total Coliform Counts (TCC) spanned 5.58 log10 CFU/g (fast foods), 5.63 log10CFU/g (fruits), and 5.99 log10 CFU/g (vegetables). All analysed samples exceeded the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) safety limits of ≤ 5.0log10 CFU/g for TVC and ≤ 2.0log10 CFU/g for coliforms. Biochemical confirmation verified the presence of Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive cocci, catalase-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative rods, catalase-positive, TSI slant/butt: A/A, gas-positive, H₂S-negative) across all food categories. Pathogenic Salmonella species (Gram-negative rods, catalase-positive, TSI slant/butt: K/A, gas-positive, H₂S-positive) were isolated from Sukuma wiki (Batch 1) and Amaranthus (Batch 2). These findings indicate a high public health risk, highlighting the urgent need for mandatory food safety training, improved municipal water and sanitation infrastructure, and regular regulatory surveillance in Nagongera Town Council.
Assessment of the association of carbohydrate intake on exercise perfomance among secondary school athletes in Tororo City, Uganda
(Busitema University, 2026-09-10) Cheptoyek, Ruth
Carbohydrate intake is an important consideration in supporting exercise performance among athletes, particularly because carbohydrates provide energy for physical activity and contribute to muscle glycogen availability. However, limited evidence exists on the type, timing, and quantity of carbohydrate consumed before exercise and their association with exercise performance among secondary school athletes in Uganda, particularly in Tororo City. This study, therefore, aimed at assessing the association of carbohydrate intake on exercise performance among secondary school athletes in Tororo City, Uganda. The study specifically purported to examine the type, timing, and quantity of carbohydrate intake among secondary school athletes, assess their exercise performance levels, and determine the association between pre-exercise carbohydrate intake and exercise performance. This quantitative study employed a descriptive cross-sectional research design with a sample of 254 secondary school athletes selected from five secondary schools in Tororo City. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS Version 20. Results indicated that maize porridge (75.6%), glucose (72.0%), sweet tea (67.3%), and solid foods such as bread, bananas, rice, matooke, and sweet potatoes (61.0%) were the most commonly consumed carbohydrate sources. Carbohydrate provision was more common after training (78.8%) than one hour before training (44.1%), 30 minutes before training (37.4%), or during training (22.4%). Exercise performance was generally moderate, with endurance (M=3.05, SD=0.56), strength (M=3.33, SD=0.63), and perceived energy (M=3.38, SD=0.69). Correlation analysis showed that carbohydrate type was not significantly associated with endurance (r=-.115, p=.066), strength (r=-.036, p=.563), or perceived energy (r=.100, p=.111). However, timing of carbohydrate intake had a statistically significant but weak positive association with endurance (r=.158, p=.011), while no significant associations were found with strength (r=-.007, p=.909) or perceived energy (r=.055, p=.379). The study concludes that secondary school athletes in Tororo City consume a variety of carbohydrate-rich foods, although carbohydrate intake is more common after training than before or during training. Exercise performance was predominantly moderate, and pre-exercise carbohydrate intake alone did not explain differences in exercise performance, except for the weak positive association between carbohydrate timing and endurance. It is therefore recommended that schools, coaches, and games teachers provide practical guidance on appropriate carbohydrate sources and timing before, during, and after training, with greater attention to appropriate pre-exercise carbohydrate intake to support endurance and overall exercise performance.
Evaluation of Azolla-derived biofertilizer and black soldier fly larvae frass on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) growth and fruit yield
(Busitema University, 2026-09-05) Masereka, Jonan
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is an important crop in Uganda because of its nutritional and income-generating value. However, tomato production is often constrained by poor soil fertility and the high cost of synthetic fertilizers. Organic fertilizers such as Azolla-derived biofertilizer and black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) frass may provide affordable and environmentally sustainable alternatives. This study evaluated and compared the effects of Azolla-derived biofertilizer and BSFL frass on tomato growth and fruit yield under open-field conditions at Busitema University, Nagongera Campus. A completely randomized design was used with seven treatments: five concentrations of aqueous Azolla extract (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 100%), BSFL frass, and an unfertilized control. Plant height, number of flowers, number of fruits, and fruit weight were measured. Data were analysed using two-way analysis of variance and descriptive statistics. BSFL frass produced the greatest plant height, flower number, fruit number, and fruit weight. Among the Azolla treatments, the 30% extract performed best. Treatment and measurement time had significant effects on tomato growth and yield (p < 0.05). The study concluded that BSFL frass was the most effective organic fertilizer for improving tomato growth and fruit yield under open-field conditions. A 30% Azolla extract was the best-performing Azolla treatment and may provide a low-cost option for smallholder farmers. These findings support the use of organic fertilizers as sustainable alternatives to synthetic fertilizers in tomato production.
Understanding the occurrences of macroinvertebrates within macrophytes along the Nagongera stream, eastern Uganda, as a prerequisite for conserving riparian vegetation.
(Busitema University, 2026-08-25) Wasiuku, John
This study investigated the occurrence and diversity of macroinvertebrates within macrophyte habitats along the Nagongera Stream in Eastern Uganda. Macrophytes, as key components of riparian ecosystems, provide essential habitats and resources for macroinvertebrates, which play critical roles in nutrient cycling, food webs, and as bio-indicators of water quality. However, increasing anthropogenic activities such as agriculture and settlement have led to significant degradation of riparian vegetation and associated wetlands in the region threatening associated biodiversity. Field sampling was conducted along a 2.5Km reach of the stream at three macrophyte patches. Macroinvertebrates were collected from root zones of Date palm, Vetiver grass and Sedges using sweep nets, preserved in 70% ethanol, sorted, and identified to family and genus level. Diversity was analyzed using taxonomic richness, abundance and the Shannon wiener index . Results showed a total of 72 macroinvertebrate individuals from 11 taxa across 8 orders. Date palm supported the highest abundance (33 individuals) but lowest diversity (H′ = 1.5432, 6 taxa). Vetiver grass recorded 19 individuals with H′ = 1.7050 (highest evenness of 0.9516), while Sedges had the highest taxonomic richness (8 taxa) and diversity (H′ = 1.7481). The study concluded that different macrophyte types create distinct microhabitats that significantly influence macroinvertebrate diversity and abundance, thereby fulfilling the set objectives. These results highlight the critical importance of conserving riparian vegetation for sustaining aquatic biodiversity. It was recommended that local communities and authorities promote sustainable land-use practices, protect existing macrophytes, and restore native riparian vegetation to safeguard the ecological integrity of the Nagongera Stream and similar riverine ecosystems in Eastern Uganda.
In vitro antagonistic activity of Trichoderma longibrachiatum against aspergillus flavus towards management of mycotoxins
(Busitema University, 2026) Nandutu, Brenda
Mycotoxin contamination, particularly aflatoxins produced by Aspergillus flavus, poses a significant threat to global food security and public health. This study investigated the in vitro antagonistic potential of Trichoderma longibrachiatum as a biological control agent against A. flavus. The research was conducted using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The antagonistic activity was evaluated using the dual culture technique on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). Results indicated that T. longibrachiatum significantly suppressed the radial growth of A. flavus, achieving a Percentage Inhibition of Radial Growth (PIRG) of 45.56% within 72 hours of incubation. To determine the underlying mechanism of inhibition, the culture filtrate of T. longibrachiatum was analyzed using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). Metabolic profiling identified over 100 bioactive compounds, including potent antifungal cyclic dipeptides such as Cyclo (L-Val-L Pro) and Cyclo(L-Trp-L-Pro), alongside organic acids and terpenes like Nerolidol. These findings suggest that the inhibition is driven by a combination of rapid spatial competition and the secretion of a complex of secondary metabolites (antibiosis). The study concludes that T. longibrachiatum is a promising, sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides for managing A. flavus and reducing mycotoxin risks in agricultural value chains. Keywords: Trichoderma longibrachiatum, Aspergillus flavus, Biocontrol, Aflatoxins, LC-MS, Antibiosis.
Investigation of constituents and effects of the different concentrations of hydroquinone in bleaching creams
(Busitema University, 2023) Aloo, Patience
Hydroquinone has been used for decades as a skin lightening agent. The use of skin lightening agents has its drawback in terms of causing harmful effects such as skin disorders like depigmentation, rashes, pimples, discolorations, kidney damage, and cancer, neurological and psychiatric disorders depending on how the agents for skin lightening are used. A total of 3 samples of different skin whitening cosmetics were collected from local market. viii They were analyzed by using thin layer chromatography and spectroscopy for qualitative and quantitative determination of their hydroquinone contents. The hydroquinone was extracted from samples by using 96% ethanol and was subjected to TLC analysis and the exact concentrations. 3 were found to contain hydroquinone.
Attitudes towards physical education amongst lower secondary students (senior three students) in selected secondary schools in kapchorwa district uganda
(Busitema University, 2024) Siwa, Wuseiri
Physical education (PE) is an essential component of the school curriculum as it promotes physical fitness, health, and well-being of students. However, the attitude of students towards PE can significantly impact their participation and engagement. In Kapchorwa district, Uganda, the attitude of students towards PE is not well documented. Therefore, this study aims to explore the attitude of students towards PE and the levels at which learners are embracing the PE curriculum in secondary schools. Among the objectives of study include; to describe the attitude of students towards physical education. To find out the levels at which learners are embracing the physical education curriculum in secondary schools. This study employs mixed-methods research design, which involve both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. The study population comprised of secondary school students in Kapchorwa district. A sample size of 200 students was selected using stratified random sampling. A questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data, while in-depth interviews and focus group discussions was used to collect qualitative data. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The study provided insights into the attitude of students towards PE and the levels at which learners are embracing the PE curriculum in secondary schools. The findings helped to identify the challenges and opportunities in promoting PE in Kapchorwa district and inform the development of effective strategies to enhance student participation and engagement in P.E.
A study of the microbial diversity of milk products obtained freshly from farmers and in comparison, with urban dairies of tororo municipality
(Busitema University, 2023) Wanzusu, Ezekiel
Microorganisms play a crucial role in various aspects of our lives, including food production and safety. One such area where microorganisms are of significant importance is in the production of milk. Milk is a highly nutritious and widely consumed beverage that serves as a source of essential nutrients for humans. However, it’s also an ideal medium for the growth and proliferation of microorganisms, which can have both positive and negative effects on its quality. This research study aimed at understanding the bacterial spp. composition in fresh milk obtained from two different sources for example that obtained from local milk vendors and that from urban dairies located within Tororo Municipality. The methods that were employed in this study involved an experimental research design in which microbes were cultured in the Busitema University Biology laboratory using different milk samples collected aseptically from Tororo town using an ice box with ice parks to prevent further contamination during transportation. The collection of milk samples involved a random selection of local milk vendors and Diary outlets in which a single sample of 100ml of fresh milk was collected from 3 local milk vendors and 3 dairy outlets within Tororo Municipality plus one milk sample from UV-treated milk from Lato Milk Company. This gave a total of n=7 samples at each time of sampling. Each sample was diluted to make 3 more replicates. 21 petri dishes of Nutrient agar (NA) were each inoculated with microbes from milk samples from all the three sources. Pure cultures of the bacterial colonies made on TSA (Tryptic Soy Agar) were Gram stained before microscopy. Gram staining helped in classifying the bacteria into two groups of Gram positive and Gram-negative bacteria based on their ability to retain crystal violet, the primary stain. The petri plates were incubated at 37°C for 24-48 hours. Colonies on the petri dishes were counted using the total plate count technique and the plates having colonies were recorded. Data collection involved the physical counting of bacterial colonies based on colony color, colony characterization based on phenotypic characteristics such as colony morphology, elevation and shape/form using the Total plate count technique so as to obtain numerical data that was tabulated in statistical tables and graphs. This data was used to calculate the microbial load in all the milk samples. Data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel software where numerical data was entered and different graphs and pie-charts were drawn and used to describe various relationships between variables. It was discovered that milk from local vendors had the greatest microbial diversity of 96.1 CFUs/100ml of sample, milk samples from dairy outlets constituted 56.3 iv CFUs/100 ml of sample meanwhile that from UV-treated milk gave the lowest bacterial load of 15.5 CFUs/100 ml. In conclusion, all stakeholders involved in milk handling and processing were advised to implement proper milk handling practices such as use of clean milking, storage and handling equipment, ensuring proper housing of the animals and regular inspections and education of the people involved in milk production
Assessing the effect of sunlight on terrestrial grasses in both open and shade areas in nagongera town council, tororo district.
(Busitema University, 2024) Wabendo Boniface
Light is an essential factor for the growth and development of plants, including grasses. The effects of light on grasses can vary depending on whether they are exposed to open areas or shaded environments. Grass receives direct sunlight for the majority of the day in open locations. They are able to carry out photosynthesis, which is how they turn sunlight into energy, thanks to the abundance of light. Because of this, grasses in open spaces typically grow to a shorter height and have a higher biomass than those in shaded locations. Moreover, the increased light exposure encourages the synthesis of chlorophyll, the pigment that gives plants their green color. Conversely, because of trees or other structures, grasses in shadowed areas receive less sunlight. Their growth and development are impacted by this decreased availability of light. Compared to their open counterparts, grasses in shaded regions are often tall and have a lower biomass. Moreover, their chlorophyll concentration is reduced. Furthermore, the effects of light on grasses extend beyond their physical characteristics. Light also influences the reproductive processes of grasses, such as flowering and seed production. In open areas, grasses are more likely to produce flowers and seeds due to the ample sunlight. In contrast, grasses in shaded areas may have limited or no flowering and seed production.
Prevalence of tomato diseases in buluganya sub county, bulambuli district, uganda
(Busitema University, 2023) Wodamba Christopher
Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are one of the most essential vegetable crops grown all over the world because of their important nutrients. The majority of people in the world eat them on a daily basis. Tomatoes have nutrients like vitamins A, C and lycopene, which are important in human beings for reducing heart diseases and prostate cancer and other age-related diseases. Solanum lycopersicum. is prone to various diseases that can cause significant yield losses. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of tomato diseases in Buluganya Sub County, Bulambuli district and determine the most diseases affecting tomato production. Tomato diseases are significant concern to farmers, and these diseases are mostly caused by fungi, bacteria, virus and other pathogens. The diseases have resulted into significant yield loss, reducing the quality and quantity of tomato fruits. They increase the cost of production due to the need for diseases management practices to ensure sustainable quality production. Specific objectives are: to determine the most diseases affecting tomatoes, to find-out the causes of tomatoes diseases, to find out the management practices use to reduce the effects/losses due to diseases. Field survey was conducted in Buluganya Sub County, Bulambuli district, tomato plants with signs and symptoms of disease were observed and results collected using observation, interviews and questionnaire. The prevalence of tomato diseases was determined, the most common diseases affecting tomato production was identified in Buluganya Sub County, Bulambuli district. On analysis the chi-square (x2) value (1.344) at p-value 0.05, then the null hypothesis (H0) was rejected and the alternative was accepted.
Assessment of faecal contamination in selected fish ponds within nagongera area with emphasis on minimizing health risks to fish consumers.
(Busitema University, 2024) Owor, Emmanuel
Aquaculture, also known as fish farming is the cultivation of aquatic organisms such as fish, shell fish, and plants in controlled environment and stands as a vital component of global food security, playing a pivotal role in suppling protein to burgeoning populations yet the safety of fish products remains a critical issue. Aquaculture has gained much attention as a fast-growing sector of global food production and source of animal protein in the world today (Olsen & Hasan, 2012). (Olsen & Hasan, 2012). However, microorganisms contribute a significant fraction of importance in the aquatic ecosystem and they have been observed to be among the factors that can cause the emergence of infectious diseases in aqua cultural practices (Santos & Ramos, 2018). The prevalence of infectious diseases has been observed to depend on the interaction between fish pathogens and the aquatic environment (Arkoosh et al., 1998). Hence, the need to quantify and monitor microbial population in this sector. This study delved into the assessment of faecal of contaminations in fish ponds within Nagongera areas in Tororo district. Faecal matter introduces various contaminants into fish ponds, posing risks not only to consumers but also to the sustainability of aquaculture ecosystems. The general objectives of this study were to assess the extent of faecal contamination in fish ponds within Nagongera. Specific objectives were, to identify the sources and types of faecal contamination in selected fish ponds to, determine the concentration of faecal indicator bacteria (E. coli) in the fish and growing waters, determining contamination levels in water, and fish samples, and proposing targeted mitigation strategies. The study employed a rigorous sampling design, selecting fish ponds randomly around Nagongera areas. Three fish ponds were randomly selected as sampling sites, water and fish samples were randomly collected over a four-month period between April and August. Collection of water, and fish samples formed the basis for microbiological analyses. Water samples were collected aseptically with sterile 500 ml capped bottles, labelled appropriately and transported to the laboratory within 1 hour. Fish samples were collected using conventional hook and thereafter placed in sterile polythene bags with appropriate labelling and were transported to the laboratory within 1 hour. Serial dilution was conducted to prepare water and fish samples. A series of sterile dilution tubes (test tubes) were labelled numerically, 10-1 to 10-6 to indicate the dilution factor.
Effect of tree size on symbiotic fungal diversity in tree bark
(Busitema University, 2024) Onyango, John
Tree bark is one of the diverse ecosystems in nature that greatly contributes to biodiversity in forests since there is increasing evidence that biodiversity correlates positively with numerous ecosystem services. Trees form complex associations with a diverse array of fungi particularly within the bark ecosystem. These fungi play crucial role in tree health improvement as some of them resist potential pathogen, nutrient cycling and overall ecosystem functioning. The attribute of tree size which is a proxy of age has a significant impact on the diversity of fungus inhabiting the bark. The relationship between tree size and symbiotic fungal diversity in bark ecosystems presents an important yet poorly understood aspect of tree ecology. While existing research has documented the diverse roles played by symbiotic fungi, the specific influence of tree size on fungal diversity within the tree bark ecosystem remains a knowledge gap. Addressing this gap is essential for comprehensively understanding ecological changes and informing sustainable tree and forest management practices. In addressing this research gap, the study aims at conducting a comprehensive field study in a mixed species environment within Nagongera campus. This study examined the relationship between tree size and fungal communities on tree bark. This was achieved by first identifying the variety of tree size among the different tree species in NC. Based on measurements of tree height, ring diameter, canopy cover and growth stage. The trees were categorized as small, medium, large and extra-large. Bark samples were taken from randomly selected trees at consistent heights and analyzed. Fungal morphologies were studied to identify the various fungal species that inhabited the tree bark. The results showed a significant positive correlation between tree size and fungal diversity, with larger trees tend to have a higher number of fungal species and fungal individuals. Specifically, fungal diversity increased by 50% on trees larger than 100cm in diameter. These findings contribute to our understanding of fungal ecology and tree-fungal interactions, with implications for forest ecosystem functioning and conservation.
Assessing the abundance of soil microorganisms in three specific gardens within busitema university's nagongera campus
(Busitema University, 2024) Okot, Brian Innocent
Introduction: Soil microorganisms play a crucial role in ecosystem functioning, nutrient recycling, and plant health. This study investigates the abundance of fungi and bacteria in the soil of three different gardens: pine, cassava, and eucalyptus garden. Soil samples were collected from each garden and microbial abundance was assessed using plate counts. The abundance of soil microorganisms is critical to maintaining soil heath, influencing nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and plant productivity (Smith and Paul, 2020). This study aims to assess the abundance of soil microorganisms in different garden; that is to say pine garden, eucalyptus garden, and cassava garden. The findings suggest that gardens with greater plant diversity and organic amendments have a significantly higher microbial count (Brown and Thompson, 2021). METHODS: Three gardens in Busitema University Nagongera Campus were selected and soil samples were picked from them and taken to the biology laboratory for further investigation on the abundance of microorganisms like fungi and bacteria in each garden. The methodology undertaken was plate count technique and staining technique. The plate count technique is a widely utilized method for estimating the abundance of viable microorganisms in soil samples. This method is particularly useful in quantifying bacteria and fungi, which play essential roles in soil health and fertility. RESULTS: The results show significant differences in microbial abundance between the gardens, with the cassava garden having the highest bacteria abundance, followed by the pines garden with the higher bacterial abundance and lastly the eucalyptus garden with the least bacterial abundance. The pine garden with the highest fungal abundance, followed by the cassava garden with higher fungal abundance and lastly with eucalyptus garden with the least fungal abundance. CONCLUSION: From the study it was observed that cassava garden having the highest abundance of bacteria while pine garden having the highest fungal abundance that could be influenced by various factors, including soil composition, moisture levels, temperature, PH levels, and the presence of organic material.
The effect of different soil types on germination rate and early seedling development of solanum lycopersicum in pallisa town council, pallisa district
(Busitema University, 2024) Odelle, Abraham Justine
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a widely cultivated vegetable plant species and understanding the impact of different soil types on the germination rate and early seedling development in it is important in improving agricultural practices and ensuring sustainable yields (Smith, Johnson &Williams., 2021). This study focused on investigating how different soil compositions influence the process of germination and the first growth stages of tomato. Three different soil types (sandy, clay and loams soil) were selected to assess their effects on germination rate and early seedling development of Solanum lycopersicum under controlled conditions. This experiment involved sowing tomato seeds in each soil composition followed by monitoring germination rates and early seedling growth parameters. Results demonstrated significant variations in the germination rates and early seedling development across the various soil types. Sandy soil exhibited the highest germination rate (92.5%), followed by loam soil (87.5%) and clay soil had the lowest (57.2%) and loam soil supported highest seedling development in Solanum lycopersicum with sandy soil having the lowest growth rate of seedlings.
Assess abundance and diversity of aquatic insects in odoponyi seasonal stream, nagongera subcounty, tororo district
(Busitema University, 2024) Nyongesa, Philex
Aquatic insects play a fundamental irreplaceable ecological role in the intricate web of biodiversity and ecosystems. Despite the importance of aquatic insects in streams, many human activities such as rice growing, sand mining and cattle grazing affect the aquatic ecosystems changing the water quality which in turn affects the abundance and diversity of organisms. This study investigates the abundance and diversity of aquatic insects in the Odoponyi seasonal stream located in Nagongera sub-county, Tororo district, Uganda. A total of 38 insects from 11 families across five orders were collected using the kicknet method, revealing a stark contrast in insect communities between disturbed and undisturbed sites. The undisturbed site, characterized by intact riparian vegetation, hosted a significantly higher abundance of insects (27 individuals) compared to the disturbed site (11 individuals), although the latter exhibited greater species diversity (Shannon index: 1.594 vs. 0.7545). The Gomphidae family was the most abundant, highlighting its ecological importance in maintaining stream health. Results indicate that anthropogenic activities, including cattle grazing and sand mining, negatively affect aquatic insect populations, emphasizing the need for effective management and conservation strategies. This baseline data is crucial for future studies aimed at preserving aquatic ecosystems in the region and inform local stakeholders about sustainable land use practices.
Assessment of seasonal farm- based challenges facing fish farmers and adaptive strategies being used in nagongera sub- county tororo district
(Busitema University, 2024) Ngolobe, Silas K
Introduction Fisheries sector plays an important role in Uganda's economy. Contribution of the sector to the nation's economy can be increased if challenges in the industry are minimized and the benefits explored. Uganda is blessed with numerous opportunities for large-scale aquaculture; however, the challenges seem to override these opportunities. Constraints to production in the industry have been identified as recurrent high-cost fish feed, poor water quality management, poor quality fish seed, technical know-how etc. Beyond the constraints to production are more pertinent factors responsible for un-sustainability of fish farm operation as business ventures. This research focused on seasonal farm-based challenges and how different farmers were managing such challenges in the study area of Tororo. Methods The total number of fish farmers sampled were 11, all coming from different parishes in Nagongera sub-County. The instructions used in data collection were informant’s interview guides and structured observation methods. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design because it helped to measure the prevalence of different challenges with a fish farm whose study samples were obtained by purposive and simple random sampling. Results The study showed that majority of the fish farmers, 30.77% are male adults of above sixty years who only archived elementary studies. Majority being elderly and of primary level, the key challenges faced include the following; Predatory birds, drought, shortage of fish feeds in dry season and siltation, emigration of fish, rapid growth of weeds in wet season. viii ix Conclusion Most farmers in the study are dependent largely on local technologies and natural sources of feeds for their fish, in addition to natural sources of water. Most challenging season recorded was dry season
Assessment of the level of feacal contamination in selected open wells in nagongera town council, tororo district.
(Busitema University, 2023) Ngobi, Andrew
Fecal indicator microorganisms such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and coliform bacteria are widely used to assess the microbiological quality and safety of water, food, and the environment. These microorganisms serve as markers for the potential presence of pathogenic microorganisms that may pose a threat to human health (Edberg et al., 2000). Regulatory agencies establish standards and guidelines to establish acceptable The aim of this study was to assess the level of fecal contamination in open wells in Nagongera Town Council where fecal coliforms specifically E. coli bacteria was used as a bio indicator for fecal contamination where samples of water were collected from three selected open wells and used as an inoculum on Eosin Methyl Blue agar (EMB), where four (4) replicates were made for each sample, cultures were made, incubated for 48 hours and the Colony Forming Units that were formed were counted. The results of this study show a prevalence of fecal coliform bacteria, E. coli in each of the sampled wells for all of the replicates made therefore this being a representative sample of the whole open well population in Nagongera town council, it signals a potential health threat to the local inhabitants.
Enhancing the shelf life of fresh cassava roots through combination of the post-harvest preservation methods in nagongera town council, tororo district
(Busitema University, 2024) Nabaya, Job Mazaki
Introduction This research aimed to address the persistent challenge of post-harvest losses in cassava production within Nagongera Town Council, Tororo District. Despite the key role cassava plays in the local economy and nutrition, the prevalence of post-harvest losses has emerged as a significant obstacle within the Nagongera area based on vivid observance from the nearby cassava growers and sellers, affecting both food security and economic stability. The primary objective of this research was to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of a combination of post-harvest preservation methods tailored to fresh cassava roots in this specific geographical context. Methods The technical evaluation involved rigorous experimental trials on two cassava varieties which are locally called Narocus and Pumba to assess the efficacy of a combination of the two mostly used preservation methods that’s to say; use of Simple bag material and Wetting the Cassava Roots. Anticipated outcomes included the identification of the most effective preservation methods for fresh cassava roots, a detailed understanding of their economic viability. The experimentation was done for a period of ten days, of which the first five days were for the individual cassava preservation methods that is storage in the bag material and wetting, this was followed by combination of the preservation methods; in the first case, the cassava which were in the bag material were transferred to the trays for wetting and vice versa. In the entire study, results on attributes like weight, texture, physical appearance of the two cassava varieties Narocus and Pumba for the individual and combined preservation methods were obtained and tabulated. Conclusion Based on the results, the sequential combination of simple bag storage method of cassava preservation followed by wetting was the most effective method as compared to sequential combination of wetting followed by simple bag material method of preservation. Keywords: Cassava, Preservation, Storage, shelf life.

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