Examining the nature of entrepreneurship within the towns and rural areas of Sakhisizwe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Maliwa, Noluvuyo
- Date: 2022-11
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Developing countries--Economic conditions , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27555 , vital:69315
- Description: Entrepreneurship plays an important role in societies around the world because it supports economic growth and creates job opportunities. This study investigated the nature of entrepreneurship in three distinct parts of Sakhisizwe Local Municipality, including a town within Sakhisizwe’s former homeland area, rural communities within its former homeland area, and a town within an area characterised by large-scale commercial farms. The study sought to establish the share of adults in the different parts of the municipality involved in entrepreneurship, to identify factors that contribute to the decision to become an entrepreneur, and to examine strategies pursued by, and challenges experienced, different types of entrepreneurs. The study involved a random sample of 362 respondents and both quantitative and qualitative data analysis. Among the main findings is that the proportion of adults involved in enterprise in Sakhisizwe is higher than found by other studies for South Africa as a whole, but is especially high for those living in the town in the former homeland area. While those residing in rural communities also engage in enterprise, they are generally compelled to practice their enterprises in town, thus have the disadvantage of needing frequent transport. While residing in the town in the commercial farming area is not disadvantageous in the same way, the challenge is that the town itself is able to support relatively few entrepreneurs due to fewer people coming to town for their shopping. , Thesis (MSci) -- Faculty of Science and Agricultures, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-11
- Authors: Maliwa, Noluvuyo
- Date: 2022-11
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Developing countries--Economic conditions , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27555 , vital:69315
- Description: Entrepreneurship plays an important role in societies around the world because it supports economic growth and creates job opportunities. This study investigated the nature of entrepreneurship in three distinct parts of Sakhisizwe Local Municipality, including a town within Sakhisizwe’s former homeland area, rural communities within its former homeland area, and a town within an area characterised by large-scale commercial farms. The study sought to establish the share of adults in the different parts of the municipality involved in entrepreneurship, to identify factors that contribute to the decision to become an entrepreneur, and to examine strategies pursued by, and challenges experienced, different types of entrepreneurs. The study involved a random sample of 362 respondents and both quantitative and qualitative data analysis. Among the main findings is that the proportion of adults involved in enterprise in Sakhisizwe is higher than found by other studies for South Africa as a whole, but is especially high for those living in the town in the former homeland area. While those residing in rural communities also engage in enterprise, they are generally compelled to practice their enterprises in town, thus have the disadvantage of needing frequent transport. While residing in the town in the commercial farming area is not disadvantageous in the same way, the challenge is that the town itself is able to support relatively few entrepreneurs due to fewer people coming to town for their shopping. , Thesis (MSci) -- Faculty of Science and Agricultures, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-11
Potential effects of different salinities on the survival of the mangrove crab, Uca urvillei and its associated chemoautotrophic bacterial symbionts
- Mbobo, Tumeka https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0159-6569
- Authors: Mbobo, Tumeka https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0159-6569
- Date: 2015-06
- Subjects: Mangrove ecology http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85080528 , Crabs--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19225 , vital:43033
- Description: The ability of natural populations to maintain fitness is important to their long-term persistence and has further relevance in the light of climate change scenarios. Fitness is however also influenced strongly by interactions with other species of the community. It is, therefore, important to focus on how environmental change can alter key biological interactions. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of different salinity levels on one species of mangrove crab, Uca urvillei and the associated chemoautotrophic bacterial symbionts, from the Mngazana estuary, South Africa. To examine the influence of different salinities over time on the symbiotic bacterial community, salinity experiments were set up, choosing three salinity exposures (5, 20 and 35percent) and four time exposures (3, 7, 14 and 21 days). The results showed that microbial community associated with U. urvillei was generally stable throughout the three salinity treatments, while the survival of the host (crab), was influenced by high salinities, particularly after day 14. Overall, the results of this study suggest that over time, environmental salinity (35percent) has the potential to affect significantly the physiology of U. urvillei, but this might not necessarily be the case for the associated microbial communities. The modes at which the significant symbionts are transferred from mother to offspring were also investigated by analysing the bacterial profiles from eggs, ovigerous and non-ovigerous females, along with mud. The results were fairly complex, but with significant differences in the bacterial communities of eggs from mud and females. These differences were driven mostly by two dominant phyla: Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria. The presence of both these phyla throughout the categories (even though in different percentages) suggest that U. urvillei might employ a mixed mode strategy of acquiring and maintaining the bacterial symbionts. Overall, this study contributes to further understand the dynamic and complex effects of environmental Abstract ii change on symbiotic communities, with overall potential cascading repercussions to the persistence of mangrove systems. , Thesis (MSc) (Zoology) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-06
- Authors: Mbobo, Tumeka https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0159-6569
- Date: 2015-06
- Subjects: Mangrove ecology http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85080528 , Crabs--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19225 , vital:43033
- Description: The ability of natural populations to maintain fitness is important to their long-term persistence and has further relevance in the light of climate change scenarios. Fitness is however also influenced strongly by interactions with other species of the community. It is, therefore, important to focus on how environmental change can alter key biological interactions. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of different salinity levels on one species of mangrove crab, Uca urvillei and the associated chemoautotrophic bacterial symbionts, from the Mngazana estuary, South Africa. To examine the influence of different salinities over time on the symbiotic bacterial community, salinity experiments were set up, choosing three salinity exposures (5, 20 and 35percent) and four time exposures (3, 7, 14 and 21 days). The results showed that microbial community associated with U. urvillei was generally stable throughout the three salinity treatments, while the survival of the host (crab), was influenced by high salinities, particularly after day 14. Overall, the results of this study suggest that over time, environmental salinity (35percent) has the potential to affect significantly the physiology of U. urvillei, but this might not necessarily be the case for the associated microbial communities. The modes at which the significant symbionts are transferred from mother to offspring were also investigated by analysing the bacterial profiles from eggs, ovigerous and non-ovigerous females, along with mud. The results were fairly complex, but with significant differences in the bacterial communities of eggs from mud and females. These differences were driven mostly by two dominant phyla: Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria. The presence of both these phyla throughout the categories (even though in different percentages) suggest that U. urvillei might employ a mixed mode strategy of acquiring and maintaining the bacterial symbionts. Overall, this study contributes to further understand the dynamic and complex effects of environmental Abstract ii change on symbiotic communities, with overall potential cascading repercussions to the persistence of mangrove systems. , Thesis (MSc) (Zoology) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-06
Synthesis of bioethanol from lignocellulosic materials: A focus on grass and waste paper as raw materials
- Authors: Vala, Mavula Kikwe
- Date: 2009-12
- Subjects: Ethanol as fuel , Biomass energy , Lignocellulose -- Biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24499 , vital:63049
- Description: Biofuels are currently recognized as not only a necessity, but an inevitable pathway to secure the planet future energy needs. Food crops have been used (so far) as the biomass for bioethanol and biodiesel production. This has increased concerns over food security and led to the search for diversification and alternative feedstocks for biofuel production. The use of lignocellulosic materials, the most abundant, low cost and easy feedstock to harvest for bioethanol purpose, involves challenging production processes. Several approaches have been used to facilitate the breakdown of the biopolymer structure to produce fermentable sugars that can be converted to ethanol. Most of the approaches have used high temperatures and pressures and have often led to the production of inhibitors of fermentation. In this study, lignocellulosic materials from grass and newsprint were investigated as sources of biomass for bioethanol production using a chemical route (sulfuric acid hydrolysis) which made use of temperatures below 100°C at normal atmospheric pressure. Fermentation of toxic lignocellulosic hydrolyzates was possible after the development of a method for inhibitors removal. The method used treated wood chips as a stationary phase in a chromatographic column to remove inhibitors. This method is expected to be extended to applications such as in municipal wastewater treatment. Sugar yields of 22.26 and 8.9 g/L of hydrolyzate; and an ethanol yield of 184.5 and 130.4 mg/mL of must were achieved for 5g grass and newsprint respectively using optimum conditions of 2percent H2SO4 at 97.5°C for grass and 0.5percent H2SO4 at 97.5°C for newsprint during the hydrolysis process. Pure cellulose was used as a control for the biomass where 254.1 g/L of fermentable sugars were recovered from soluble cellulose and the yield of ethanol was 201.8 mg/mL. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2009
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009-12
- Authors: Vala, Mavula Kikwe
- Date: 2009-12
- Subjects: Ethanol as fuel , Biomass energy , Lignocellulose -- Biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24499 , vital:63049
- Description: Biofuels are currently recognized as not only a necessity, but an inevitable pathway to secure the planet future energy needs. Food crops have been used (so far) as the biomass for bioethanol and biodiesel production. This has increased concerns over food security and led to the search for diversification and alternative feedstocks for biofuel production. The use of lignocellulosic materials, the most abundant, low cost and easy feedstock to harvest for bioethanol purpose, involves challenging production processes. Several approaches have been used to facilitate the breakdown of the biopolymer structure to produce fermentable sugars that can be converted to ethanol. Most of the approaches have used high temperatures and pressures and have often led to the production of inhibitors of fermentation. In this study, lignocellulosic materials from grass and newsprint were investigated as sources of biomass for bioethanol production using a chemical route (sulfuric acid hydrolysis) which made use of temperatures below 100°C at normal atmospheric pressure. Fermentation of toxic lignocellulosic hydrolyzates was possible after the development of a method for inhibitors removal. The method used treated wood chips as a stationary phase in a chromatographic column to remove inhibitors. This method is expected to be extended to applications such as in municipal wastewater treatment. Sugar yields of 22.26 and 8.9 g/L of hydrolyzate; and an ethanol yield of 184.5 and 130.4 mg/mL of must were achieved for 5g grass and newsprint respectively using optimum conditions of 2percent H2SO4 at 97.5°C for grass and 0.5percent H2SO4 at 97.5°C for newsprint during the hydrolysis process. Pure cellulose was used as a control for the biomass where 254.1 g/L of fermentable sugars were recovered from soluble cellulose and the yield of ethanol was 201.8 mg/mL. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2009
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009-12
Barriers and reasons for exercise of rural and urban overweight and obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mrwebi, Thembani
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Obesity--Prevention , Public health--Exercise
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22522 , vital:52388
- Description: It is documented that obesity is highly prevalent across rural and urban groups in industrialised and underdeveloped countries. This problem is an alarming issue as community members remain unsure about avoiding risking their health. Various health surveys reveal that obesity has increased among communities in the Buffalo City Metro Municipality in the Eastern Cape, and it has consequently made communities vulnerable to non-communicable diseases. The researcher explored factors and barriers of exercise for rural and urban obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. This study was descriptive and explorative, utilising a questionnaire for gathering information. A purposive sample of 80 members from the two selected communities completed the questionnaire. A factor analysis was performed to identify factors that motivate physical activity and barriers to physical activity. It was discovered that all evaluated members were fully aware of the harmful repercussions of being overweight or obese. Nevertheless, only a tiny percentage of those who took part in the study decided to live a healthier lifestyle because of their obesity. Constructive motivating factors included increasing their self-image, enhancing their wellbeing, and getting highly involved in active and regular exercise. Negative motivators included finding it challenging to fit into old clothes and the worry of developing obesity-related diseases. Respondents noted the following impediments in regular exercises and physical activities; African cultural values, limited operational hours of physical activity facilities, insufficient time, and a lack of enthusiasm. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mrwebi, Thembani
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Obesity--Prevention , Public health--Exercise
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22522 , vital:52388
- Description: It is documented that obesity is highly prevalent across rural and urban groups in industrialised and underdeveloped countries. This problem is an alarming issue as community members remain unsure about avoiding risking their health. Various health surveys reveal that obesity has increased among communities in the Buffalo City Metro Municipality in the Eastern Cape, and it has consequently made communities vulnerable to non-communicable diseases. The researcher explored factors and barriers of exercise for rural and urban obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. This study was descriptive and explorative, utilising a questionnaire for gathering information. A purposive sample of 80 members from the two selected communities completed the questionnaire. A factor analysis was performed to identify factors that motivate physical activity and barriers to physical activity. It was discovered that all evaluated members were fully aware of the harmful repercussions of being overweight or obese. Nevertheless, only a tiny percentage of those who took part in the study decided to live a healthier lifestyle because of their obesity. Constructive motivating factors included increasing their self-image, enhancing their wellbeing, and getting highly involved in active and regular exercise. Negative motivators included finding it challenging to fit into old clothes and the worry of developing obesity-related diseases. Respondents noted the following impediments in regular exercises and physical activities; African cultural values, limited operational hours of physical activity facilities, insufficient time, and a lack of enthusiasm. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Effect of Mucuna pruriens based-diets on fatty acids composition and sensory attributes of meat from broiler chickens
- Authors: Makhamba, Nasiphi
- Date: 2020-11
- Subjects: Fatty acids , Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20771 , vital:46554
- Description: The current study was conducted to determine the effect of feeding different inclusion levels of processed Mucuna pruriens on fatty acid composition and sensory attributes of broiler chickens. 120 Cob500 broilers were used in the experiment. The experiment was divided into 4 treatment (0, 10, 15 and 20 percent of Mucuna pruriens) groups, each treatment with 6 replicates (5 birds per replicate) in a completely randomized design. The first treatment (0 percent) was used as control against the three different levels of Mucuna pruriens. The birds were reared in a deep litter system until they reached slaughter weight of 2kg. At day 42 a total of 80 birds were slaughtered and breast muscles were sampled for the evaluation of sensory attributes and fatty acid composition. For sensory evaluation meat samples were prepared and boiled at 80°C until the internal temperature reached 82°C, 40 consumers were used to assess the meat samples and give scores according to 9-point hedonic scale. The fatty acid content was determined and recorded using the gas chromatography. Total saturated fatty acid (SFA), total monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and total polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) of the breast meat were not affected by diets. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid were also not influenced by treatment diets. However, breast muscle from broilers fed 20 percent Mucuna pruriens seed meal inclusion had lower Myristic acid. The sensory attributes; aroma, colour, flavour, juiciness, tenderness and acceptability were assessed, dietary treatments affected the juiciness, tenderness and acceptability of meat, the treatments showed no significant difference on colour, aroma and flavour. Different age groups accepted the meat differently, the respondents that were between 18 and 22 years old gave the highest scores to the acceptability of meat than the other age groups, and different age groups also gave different scores in the aroma of meat. Females and males accepted the meat differently, the female respondents gave higher scores on the flavour of meat than males. Different inclusion levels of Mucuna pruriens positively affected fatty acid composition and sensory attributes of broiler chickens without causing any detrimental effects. , Thesis (MSc) (Animal Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-11
- Authors: Makhamba, Nasiphi
- Date: 2020-11
- Subjects: Fatty acids , Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20771 , vital:46554
- Description: The current study was conducted to determine the effect of feeding different inclusion levels of processed Mucuna pruriens on fatty acid composition and sensory attributes of broiler chickens. 120 Cob500 broilers were used in the experiment. The experiment was divided into 4 treatment (0, 10, 15 and 20 percent of Mucuna pruriens) groups, each treatment with 6 replicates (5 birds per replicate) in a completely randomized design. The first treatment (0 percent) was used as control against the three different levels of Mucuna pruriens. The birds were reared in a deep litter system until they reached slaughter weight of 2kg. At day 42 a total of 80 birds were slaughtered and breast muscles were sampled for the evaluation of sensory attributes and fatty acid composition. For sensory evaluation meat samples were prepared and boiled at 80°C until the internal temperature reached 82°C, 40 consumers were used to assess the meat samples and give scores according to 9-point hedonic scale. The fatty acid content was determined and recorded using the gas chromatography. Total saturated fatty acid (SFA), total monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and total polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) of the breast meat were not affected by diets. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid were also not influenced by treatment diets. However, breast muscle from broilers fed 20 percent Mucuna pruriens seed meal inclusion had lower Myristic acid. The sensory attributes; aroma, colour, flavour, juiciness, tenderness and acceptability were assessed, dietary treatments affected the juiciness, tenderness and acceptability of meat, the treatments showed no significant difference on colour, aroma and flavour. Different age groups accepted the meat differently, the respondents that were between 18 and 22 years old gave the highest scores to the acceptability of meat than the other age groups, and different age groups also gave different scores in the aroma of meat. Females and males accepted the meat differently, the female respondents gave higher scores on the flavour of meat than males. Different inclusion levels of Mucuna pruriens positively affected fatty acid composition and sensory attributes of broiler chickens without causing any detrimental effects. , Thesis (MSc) (Animal Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-11
Adolescent sexual reproductive health and rights in the Alice area, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Moko, Zukhanye
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Reproductive health , Right to health , HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20676 , vital:46423
- Description: Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) is a significant aspect of adolescent’s growth. Adolescents particularly girls face the risk of exposure to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), child marriages, high rates of unwanted pregnancy and the risk of those pregnancies can lead to unsafe abortion. In South Africa, considerable progress has been made in achieving improved access to Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) among the general population, however, some factors influencing SRHR of adolescents and young people have been slow to achieve. The study aims to investigate factors influencing Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights of adolescents in Alice, which is located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The Social-Ecological Model was considered appropriate for this study as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the multiple and interacting determinants of Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights. A qualitative methodology was adopted, involving focus groups with high school learners, in-depth interviews with institutional actors (Department of Health, Basic Education and Social Development), and participant observations. The study reveals that adolescents’ have access to Sexual Reproductive Health services from healthcare centres but only a few utilize or access them due to barriers such as the geographical location, denial and judgement about young people's sexuality limits their access to comprehensive knowledge to protect and promote their Sexual and Reproductive Health. The findings show that the adolescents who were most affected by Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights challenges were those from deep rural areas. They had minimal information/education compared to those residing in areas close to the town of Alice and major roads. Multi-sectoral interventions empowering adolescents and young people to exercise their rights to optimize SRHR service yield better results. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science & Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
- Authors: Moko, Zukhanye
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Reproductive health , Right to health , HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20676 , vital:46423
- Description: Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) is a significant aspect of adolescent’s growth. Adolescents particularly girls face the risk of exposure to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), child marriages, high rates of unwanted pregnancy and the risk of those pregnancies can lead to unsafe abortion. In South Africa, considerable progress has been made in achieving improved access to Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) among the general population, however, some factors influencing SRHR of adolescents and young people have been slow to achieve. The study aims to investigate factors influencing Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights of adolescents in Alice, which is located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The Social-Ecological Model was considered appropriate for this study as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the multiple and interacting determinants of Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights. A qualitative methodology was adopted, involving focus groups with high school learners, in-depth interviews with institutional actors (Department of Health, Basic Education and Social Development), and participant observations. The study reveals that adolescents’ have access to Sexual Reproductive Health services from healthcare centres but only a few utilize or access them due to barriers such as the geographical location, denial and judgement about young people's sexuality limits their access to comprehensive knowledge to protect and promote their Sexual and Reproductive Health. The findings show that the adolescents who were most affected by Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights challenges were those from deep rural areas. They had minimal information/education compared to those residing in areas close to the town of Alice and major roads. Multi-sectoral interventions empowering adolescents and young people to exercise their rights to optimize SRHR service yield better results. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science & Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
Agro-morphological characterization and investigations into the response of yellow Quality Protein Maize (QPM) genotypes to low soil pH
- Authors: Bobotyana, Simthandile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Corn as food , Plants--Drought tolerance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20528 , vital:46087
- Description: Maize (Zea mays L) is an essential food grain crop in South Africa and is mainly grown under rainfed conditions by small-scale farmers. Quality Protein Maize (QPM) contains a higher level of two essential amino acids, tryptophan, and lysine when equated to normal maize. Therefore, the QPM in communities is a vital cereal where maize is a staple crop. Among the significant abiotic stresses that adversely affect maize productivity, such as soil fertility. Low soil pH or soil acidity results in nutrient deficiencies, as well as the toxicity of minerals such as manganese (Mn), aluminium (Al), and iron (Fe). The objectives of the study were to: (1) Characterize yellow QPM inbred lines and testcross hybrids for agro-morphological variability under optimum conditions, (2) Determine the response of QPM inbred lines and testcross hybrids to Al toxicity, and (3) Estimate the combining ability of QPM genotypes for the tolerance to Al toxicity. The laboratory assessment for tolerance to Al toxicity revealed a negative relationship between relative root growth RRG and hematoxylin staining; among the inbred lines, the genotype 8Y, 17Y, and 7Y had the highest RRG and net root growth (NRG) values and exhibited the highest tolerance to Al tolerance with the least hematoxylin staining. Inbred lines 12Y, 16Y, 19Y, 2Y, 20Y, 24Y, 30Y, 27Y, 34Y, 4Y, and 11Y were moderately tolerant. On the other hand, inbred lines 13Y, 18Y, and QSY5 had the least RRG were susceptible. Forty-four testcross hybrids were generated by crossing 22 QPM inbred lines with two open-pollinated variety (OPV) testers. These hybrids were evaluated together with five checks for different agronomic traits. The hybrids were planted in the summer season of 2017/18 and 2018/19 under rain-fed conditions 7 x 7 alpha lattice design was used. The significant variations among the genotypes for grain yield and most other agronomic traits under optimum, acidic conditions and across environments on combined analysis of variance. The hybrid was 14Y x NC (3.22 t/ha), followed by QSY5 x NC (3.02 t/ha) showed the highest yielding. The mean plant height was 226.23 cm, with ranges 197.60 to 254.85cm. The number of kernels per ear was 35, with a range from 29.45 to 40.25. Conversely, the mean ear length was 19.30 cm with a range of 17.65 to 20.95 cm, and the mean ear diameter ranged from 13,50 to 16,05 cm. The highest yielding hybrid, according to ranking, was 14Y x NC (2,93t/ha), which was ranked number 3, followed by 3Y x NC (2,83 t/ha), which was ranked number 4. Twenty-two yellow QPM inbred lines were evaluated for agro-morphological characteristics. A randomized complete block design with three replicates was used under acidic and normal soil conditions at two locations. The mean performance of inbred lines for grain yield ranged from 1.6 t/ha to 3.1 t/ha under optimum conditions, whereas it ranged from 1.1.t/ha to 1.7 t/ha under an acidic environment. The highest grain yielding genotypes under the optimum environment were 14Y, 7Y, and QSY5, while, in the acidic environment, the highest yielders were 3Y, QSY5, and 17Y. The lowest grain yielder under the optimum environment was 16Y at 1.5 t/ha, whereas 6Y, 7Y, 8Y, and 29Y were the most moderate yielders under the acidic environment. Grain yield displayed positive and significant (p<0,05) correlation with ear height (0.59), plant height (0.55), leaf length (0.18), number of leaves (0.37), number of ears per plot (0,54), number of kernels per row, number of rows per ear and thousand kernel weight. Combined ANOVA revealed that the environment effect was significant for all traits except the number of rows per ear and the number of ears in both environments. A total of 71 genotypes (22 inbred lines, forty-four single crosses, and five checks) were evaluated using a 7 x 7 alpha lattice design with two replications in combining ability. Across environments, the analysis showed a mean grain yield record of hybrids that ranged from 1.78 t/ha to 3.42 t/ha. Combined analysis showed only about 4 percent of the 44 hybrids had better grain yield than hybrid checks, whereas about 11 percent of the 44 hybrids had higher grain yield than two of the five hybrid checks. The highest yielding hybrid was 14Y x NC followed by QSY5 x NC. The Mid-parent heterosis (MPH) for grain yield ranged from -32.70 for 11YxObat to 16.50 percent for 14YxNC among the top-yielding genotypes. The highest positive mid-parent heterosis (MPH) for grain yield was observed in hybrid 14YxNC followed by QSY9xNC, QSY5xOBAT, 3YxNC, 13YxNC and 4YxOBAT, while the remaining hybrids exhibited negative estimates. Inbred lines' proportional contributions to the total variances were much higher than the testers for all traits. Whereas the inbred lines' proportional contribution was lower than the interaction of line x tester except on the number of ears which displayed the highest estimates of variances due to SCA effects, significant variation was observed. The GCA effects on grain yield in both environments generally showed no significant difference among inbred lines except for inbred lines such as QSY5 and 34Y but were positive. The selected crosses showed significant SCA effects in a few agronomic yield-related traits in the combined analysis. Among the hybrids, the only crosses that showed significant and positive SCA effects for grain yield were 25YxNC under optimum and 34YxObat under acidic environment. The inbred lines were assessed for tolerance to Al toxicity under laboratory conditions. Overall, the study identified soil acidity tolerant QPM inbred lines with an excellent combining ability for high-yielding QPM test hybrids, grain yield, and related traits. , Thesis (MSc) (Agriculture, Crop Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Bobotyana, Simthandile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Corn as food , Plants--Drought tolerance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20528 , vital:46087
- Description: Maize (Zea mays L) is an essential food grain crop in South Africa and is mainly grown under rainfed conditions by small-scale farmers. Quality Protein Maize (QPM) contains a higher level of two essential amino acids, tryptophan, and lysine when equated to normal maize. Therefore, the QPM in communities is a vital cereal where maize is a staple crop. Among the significant abiotic stresses that adversely affect maize productivity, such as soil fertility. Low soil pH or soil acidity results in nutrient deficiencies, as well as the toxicity of minerals such as manganese (Mn), aluminium (Al), and iron (Fe). The objectives of the study were to: (1) Characterize yellow QPM inbred lines and testcross hybrids for agro-morphological variability under optimum conditions, (2) Determine the response of QPM inbred lines and testcross hybrids to Al toxicity, and (3) Estimate the combining ability of QPM genotypes for the tolerance to Al toxicity. The laboratory assessment for tolerance to Al toxicity revealed a negative relationship between relative root growth RRG and hematoxylin staining; among the inbred lines, the genotype 8Y, 17Y, and 7Y had the highest RRG and net root growth (NRG) values and exhibited the highest tolerance to Al tolerance with the least hematoxylin staining. Inbred lines 12Y, 16Y, 19Y, 2Y, 20Y, 24Y, 30Y, 27Y, 34Y, 4Y, and 11Y were moderately tolerant. On the other hand, inbred lines 13Y, 18Y, and QSY5 had the least RRG were susceptible. Forty-four testcross hybrids were generated by crossing 22 QPM inbred lines with two open-pollinated variety (OPV) testers. These hybrids were evaluated together with five checks for different agronomic traits. The hybrids were planted in the summer season of 2017/18 and 2018/19 under rain-fed conditions 7 x 7 alpha lattice design was used. The significant variations among the genotypes for grain yield and most other agronomic traits under optimum, acidic conditions and across environments on combined analysis of variance. The hybrid was 14Y x NC (3.22 t/ha), followed by QSY5 x NC (3.02 t/ha) showed the highest yielding. The mean plant height was 226.23 cm, with ranges 197.60 to 254.85cm. The number of kernels per ear was 35, with a range from 29.45 to 40.25. Conversely, the mean ear length was 19.30 cm with a range of 17.65 to 20.95 cm, and the mean ear diameter ranged from 13,50 to 16,05 cm. The highest yielding hybrid, according to ranking, was 14Y x NC (2,93t/ha), which was ranked number 3, followed by 3Y x NC (2,83 t/ha), which was ranked number 4. Twenty-two yellow QPM inbred lines were evaluated for agro-morphological characteristics. A randomized complete block design with three replicates was used under acidic and normal soil conditions at two locations. The mean performance of inbred lines for grain yield ranged from 1.6 t/ha to 3.1 t/ha under optimum conditions, whereas it ranged from 1.1.t/ha to 1.7 t/ha under an acidic environment. The highest grain yielding genotypes under the optimum environment were 14Y, 7Y, and QSY5, while, in the acidic environment, the highest yielders were 3Y, QSY5, and 17Y. The lowest grain yielder under the optimum environment was 16Y at 1.5 t/ha, whereas 6Y, 7Y, 8Y, and 29Y were the most moderate yielders under the acidic environment. Grain yield displayed positive and significant (p<0,05) correlation with ear height (0.59), plant height (0.55), leaf length (0.18), number of leaves (0.37), number of ears per plot (0,54), number of kernels per row, number of rows per ear and thousand kernel weight. Combined ANOVA revealed that the environment effect was significant for all traits except the number of rows per ear and the number of ears in both environments. A total of 71 genotypes (22 inbred lines, forty-four single crosses, and five checks) were evaluated using a 7 x 7 alpha lattice design with two replications in combining ability. Across environments, the analysis showed a mean grain yield record of hybrids that ranged from 1.78 t/ha to 3.42 t/ha. Combined analysis showed only about 4 percent of the 44 hybrids had better grain yield than hybrid checks, whereas about 11 percent of the 44 hybrids had higher grain yield than two of the five hybrid checks. The highest yielding hybrid was 14Y x NC followed by QSY5 x NC. The Mid-parent heterosis (MPH) for grain yield ranged from -32.70 for 11YxObat to 16.50 percent for 14YxNC among the top-yielding genotypes. The highest positive mid-parent heterosis (MPH) for grain yield was observed in hybrid 14YxNC followed by QSY9xNC, QSY5xOBAT, 3YxNC, 13YxNC and 4YxOBAT, while the remaining hybrids exhibited negative estimates. Inbred lines' proportional contributions to the total variances were much higher than the testers for all traits. Whereas the inbred lines' proportional contribution was lower than the interaction of line x tester except on the number of ears which displayed the highest estimates of variances due to SCA effects, significant variation was observed. The GCA effects on grain yield in both environments generally showed no significant difference among inbred lines except for inbred lines such as QSY5 and 34Y but were positive. The selected crosses showed significant SCA effects in a few agronomic yield-related traits in the combined analysis. Among the hybrids, the only crosses that showed significant and positive SCA effects for grain yield were 25YxNC under optimum and 34YxObat under acidic environment. The inbred lines were assessed for tolerance to Al toxicity under laboratory conditions. Overall, the study identified soil acidity tolerant QPM inbred lines with an excellent combining ability for high-yielding QPM test hybrids, grain yield, and related traits. , Thesis (MSc) (Agriculture, Crop Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Evaluation of cellulase and xylanase production by two actinobacteria species belonging to the Micrococcus genus isolated from decaying lignocellulosic biomass
- Mmango-Kaseke, Ziyanda https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8936-1149
- Authors: Mmango-Kaseke, Ziyanda https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8936-1149
- Date: 2016-05
- Subjects: Lignocellulose , Biomass energy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24197 , vital:62442
- Description: Bacteria were isolated from sawdust and screened for cellulase and xylanase production on carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC) and birchwood xylan agar. The bacteria showing halo forms around the colony were selected for further analyses and those isolates with the highest cumulative halozone size (isolate PLY1 and MLY10) were chosen for detailed studies. Evaluation of cellulase and xylanase production by saw dust actinobacterial species whose 16S rDNA nucleotide sequences were deposited in GenBank as Micrococcus luteus strain SAMRC-UFH3 with accession number KU171371 and Micrococcus yunnanensis strain SAMRC-UFH4 with accession number KU171372. Optimum culture conditions for the production of cellulase for respective axenic culture include incubation period (96 h), incubation temperature (25oC), agitation speed (50 rpm), and pH 5. For xylanase production, the optimum culture conditions in the presence of 1percent (w/v) birchwood xylan include incubation period (84 h), incubation temperature (25oC), agitation speed (200 rpm), and pH 10. For Micrococcus yunnanensis strain SAMRC-UFH4 cellulase production was optimal under such conditions as, incubation temperature (30oC), agitation speed (0 rpm), and pH 5, while xylanase production was optimal at, incubation temperature (30oC), agitation speed (150 rpm), and pH 10. The high cellulase and xylanase activity obtained from these isolates suggest suitability of the organisms as important candidates for commercial application. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2016
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016-05
- Authors: Mmango-Kaseke, Ziyanda https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8936-1149
- Date: 2016-05
- Subjects: Lignocellulose , Biomass energy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24197 , vital:62442
- Description: Bacteria were isolated from sawdust and screened for cellulase and xylanase production on carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC) and birchwood xylan agar. The bacteria showing halo forms around the colony were selected for further analyses and those isolates with the highest cumulative halozone size (isolate PLY1 and MLY10) were chosen for detailed studies. Evaluation of cellulase and xylanase production by saw dust actinobacterial species whose 16S rDNA nucleotide sequences were deposited in GenBank as Micrococcus luteus strain SAMRC-UFH3 with accession number KU171371 and Micrococcus yunnanensis strain SAMRC-UFH4 with accession number KU171372. Optimum culture conditions for the production of cellulase for respective axenic culture include incubation period (96 h), incubation temperature (25oC), agitation speed (50 rpm), and pH 5. For xylanase production, the optimum culture conditions in the presence of 1percent (w/v) birchwood xylan include incubation period (84 h), incubation temperature (25oC), agitation speed (200 rpm), and pH 10. For Micrococcus yunnanensis strain SAMRC-UFH4 cellulase production was optimal under such conditions as, incubation temperature (30oC), agitation speed (0 rpm), and pH 5, while xylanase production was optimal at, incubation temperature (30oC), agitation speed (150 rpm), and pH 10. The high cellulase and xylanase activity obtained from these isolates suggest suitability of the organisms as important candidates for commercial application. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2016
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016-05
Synthesis and characterization of molybdenum dichalcogenides nanoparticles via solution-processed technique for photovoltaic applications
- Authors: Shelter, Chikukwa Evernice
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Nanoparticles , Colloids
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20653 , vital:46417
- Description: Energy generated from non-renewable energy sources has a drawback of prompted outflow of ozone harming substances. These drawbacks of the non-renewable energy have quickened innovative work of renewable power sources, since they have an advantage of the provision of a better, preserved, decent environment that is free from natural contamination and commotion. Photovoltaic devices are prevalent in improving the green energy utilization and defeating the natural concerns yielded from the current most overwhelming energy sources. Herein, the synthesis, characterization, and application of Molybdenum chalcogenide nanoparticles (NP) as alternative sources in the absorber layer of quantum dot solar sensitized cells (QDSSCs) is discussed. The MoS2 NPs were synthesized from the aliphatic and aromatic dithiocarbamate (DTC) ligands and complexes as precursors. The successful synthesis of the DTC ligands and MoDTC complexes was confirmed through characterization with a variety of techniques including 1H and 13C-NMR, Raman Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Derivative thermogravimetric (DTG) analysis. The synthesized MoDTC complexes (precursors) were further used in the synthesis of MoS2 nanoparticles. A bottom -up colloidal approach was employed for the synthesis of the MoX2 NPs. The successful synthesis of the NP was confirmed as the results from the diffractive peaks obtained from XRD which were positive and agreed in comparison with the standard. The diffractive peaks were shown in the planes (100), (002), (100) and (105) for MoS2 nanoparticles; (002), (100), (103) and (110) for MoSe2 and (0002), (0004), (103) as well as (0006) for the MoTe2 nanoparticles. The MoSe2 nanoparticles showed the least size of the nanoparticles followed by MoTe2 and lastly MoS2. These results agreed with the results obtained using SEM analysis. For the optical properties of the nanoparticles, UV-VIS and PL were used, the shift of the peaks from the red shift (600 nm) to the blue shift 270-5 nm and 287-9 nm (UV-VIS) confirmed that the nanoparticles were quantum confined. The application of the MoX2 NPs in QDSSCs was done with MoSe2 showing the greatest PCE of 7.86 percent followed by MoTe2 6.93 percent and lastly MoS2 with a PCE of 6.05 percent and 5.47 percent. , Thesis (MSc) (Chemistry) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
- Authors: Shelter, Chikukwa Evernice
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Nanoparticles , Colloids
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20653 , vital:46417
- Description: Energy generated from non-renewable energy sources has a drawback of prompted outflow of ozone harming substances. These drawbacks of the non-renewable energy have quickened innovative work of renewable power sources, since they have an advantage of the provision of a better, preserved, decent environment that is free from natural contamination and commotion. Photovoltaic devices are prevalent in improving the green energy utilization and defeating the natural concerns yielded from the current most overwhelming energy sources. Herein, the synthesis, characterization, and application of Molybdenum chalcogenide nanoparticles (NP) as alternative sources in the absorber layer of quantum dot solar sensitized cells (QDSSCs) is discussed. The MoS2 NPs were synthesized from the aliphatic and aromatic dithiocarbamate (DTC) ligands and complexes as precursors. The successful synthesis of the DTC ligands and MoDTC complexes was confirmed through characterization with a variety of techniques including 1H and 13C-NMR, Raman Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Derivative thermogravimetric (DTG) analysis. The synthesized MoDTC complexes (precursors) were further used in the synthesis of MoS2 nanoparticles. A bottom -up colloidal approach was employed for the synthesis of the MoX2 NPs. The successful synthesis of the NP was confirmed as the results from the diffractive peaks obtained from XRD which were positive and agreed in comparison with the standard. The diffractive peaks were shown in the planes (100), (002), (100) and (105) for MoS2 nanoparticles; (002), (100), (103) and (110) for MoSe2 and (0002), (0004), (103) as well as (0006) for the MoTe2 nanoparticles. The MoSe2 nanoparticles showed the least size of the nanoparticles followed by MoTe2 and lastly MoS2. These results agreed with the results obtained using SEM analysis. For the optical properties of the nanoparticles, UV-VIS and PL were used, the shift of the peaks from the red shift (600 nm) to the blue shift 270-5 nm and 287-9 nm (UV-VIS) confirmed that the nanoparticles were quantum confined. The application of the MoX2 NPs in QDSSCs was done with MoSe2 showing the greatest PCE of 7.86 percent followed by MoTe2 6.93 percent and lastly MoS2 with a PCE of 6.05 percent and 5.47 percent. , Thesis (MSc) (Chemistry) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
Evaluation of knowledge and practices of nurses with regard to prevention of nosocomial infection in the intensive care units of Eastern Cape Province
- Mlenzana, Nosiphiwo Priscilla
- Authors: Mlenzana, Nosiphiwo Priscilla
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Nosocomial infections http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85092770 , Cross infection--Prevention http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh2009122612 , Infection http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85066076
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19639 , vital:43154
- Description: Aim: To determine the level of knowledge and practice of the nurses in the prevention and control of nosocomial infection in the intensive care units and make recommendations aiming at bridging the gap identified. In this study, the level of knowledge and practice of nurses in the intensive care units was described and its relationship with the demographic characteristics was examined utilising a quantitative approach. A quantitative descriptive design was used to examine and describe knowledge and practices of intensive care nurses with regards to prevention and control of nosocomial infection. One hundred and thirty (130) nurses participated in the study taken from the intensive care units of the five (5) state hospitals of the Eastern Cape Province. A self-designed questionnaire with close-ended questions was utilised comprising of dichotomous questions, with ‘yes’ or ‘no’ measuring knowledge nurses have and a Likert scale that measured knowledge with regards to clinical practice utilised in the prevention and control of nosocomial infections. The following ethical considerations were addressed by the study: ethical clearance, permission to conduct the study, informed consent from participants, anonymity and confidentiality and respect of individual autonomy. Findings: The respondents showed encouraging agreement with the different practices that should be followed in order to prevent spreading of nosocomial infections in their units. This knowledge suggests that the problem of infection control in ICUs may be related to the individual characteristics of the profession as opposed to being institutional. Limitations: Not all the intensive care units of the Eastern Cape hospitals were included due to challenges of time, finance and geographic factors. Recommendations: The following recommendations were made: Orientation programme to all new staff coming into the ICUs including infection control policies and guidelines; Involvement of the ICU staff in the development of infection control policies so as to ensure ownership and ultimate compliance; The employer must ensure that all resources for infection control and prevention are available and accessible to the health care workers at all times to ensure compliance. , Thesis (MCur) -- University of Fort Hare, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mlenzana, Nosiphiwo Priscilla
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Nosocomial infections http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85092770 , Cross infection--Prevention http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh2009122612 , Infection http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85066076
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19639 , vital:43154
- Description: Aim: To determine the level of knowledge and practice of the nurses in the prevention and control of nosocomial infection in the intensive care units and make recommendations aiming at bridging the gap identified. In this study, the level of knowledge and practice of nurses in the intensive care units was described and its relationship with the demographic characteristics was examined utilising a quantitative approach. A quantitative descriptive design was used to examine and describe knowledge and practices of intensive care nurses with regards to prevention and control of nosocomial infection. One hundred and thirty (130) nurses participated in the study taken from the intensive care units of the five (5) state hospitals of the Eastern Cape Province. A self-designed questionnaire with close-ended questions was utilised comprising of dichotomous questions, with ‘yes’ or ‘no’ measuring knowledge nurses have and a Likert scale that measured knowledge with regards to clinical practice utilised in the prevention and control of nosocomial infections. The following ethical considerations were addressed by the study: ethical clearance, permission to conduct the study, informed consent from participants, anonymity and confidentiality and respect of individual autonomy. Findings: The respondents showed encouraging agreement with the different practices that should be followed in order to prevent spreading of nosocomial infections in their units. This knowledge suggests that the problem of infection control in ICUs may be related to the individual characteristics of the profession as opposed to being institutional. Limitations: Not all the intensive care units of the Eastern Cape hospitals were included due to challenges of time, finance and geographic factors. Recommendations: The following recommendations were made: Orientation programme to all new staff coming into the ICUs including infection control policies and guidelines; Involvement of the ICU staff in the development of infection control policies so as to ensure ownership and ultimate compliance; The employer must ensure that all resources for infection control and prevention are available and accessible to the health care workers at all times to ensure compliance. , Thesis (MCur) -- University of Fort Hare, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Investigations of water deficit interactions with heat and elevated carbon dioxide in wheat
- Authors: Mavindidze, Peter
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Plants--Effect of heat on , Growth (Plants)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20664 , vital:46422
- Description: Future climate is predicted to be characterised by elevated carbon dioxide (eCO2), as well as more incidences of heat and water deficit. eCO2 has been widely reported as enhancing growth, biomass and grain yield. To investigate the interactive effects of abiotic stresses on genotypic performance, an experiment was established in open-top chambers at the University of Rhodes eCO2 facility in Grahamstown, South Africa. The specific objectives of the study were: i) to evaluate the effects of eCO2 on wheat grain yield, yield components and grain quality under heat and terminal water deficit conditions; ii) to identify cultivar sources of tolerance to combined water deficit and heat stress under eCO2; iii) to identify appropriate stress indices that can be used as screening tools for tolerance to combined effects of water deficit and heat stress under eCO2. A total of 19 wheat genotypes were evaluated in three environments varying in CO2, temperature and water deficit during the 2019 winter season. The experiment was laid out in a split-split plot design arranged in blocks inside the chambers. The parameters recorded were: leaf water potential (LWP), biomass content (TB), number of productive tillers (NPT), days to flowering (DTA), days to maturity (DTM), plant height (PH), thousand kernel weight (TKW), number of kernels per spike (KPS), kernel weight per spike (KWS) and total grain weight (TGW). The following stress indices were determined: tolerance index, stress tolerance, yield susceptibility index, mean productivity, geometric mean productivity, stress intensity index and yield index. Elevated atmospheric CO2 ameliorated the negative effects of combined heat and water deficit stress by enhancing LWP, NPT, KPS, TB and TGW. Wheat genotypes responded the same way to CO2 with respect to grain yield. Furthermore, adequate water supply mitigated the adverse effects of heat stress. In addition, the combined effects of eCO2, heat and water deficit are confounding and hypo-additive in nature. The separation of environmental effects revealed that significant genotypic responses on grain yield and biomass were caused by heat and water deficit stress, while eCO2 mitigated their negative effects, promoting growth and reproduction. Both Principal component analysis (PCA) biplot analysis and cultivar superiority measure proved to be reliable statistical tools since they managed to identify 13-5HTSBWYT-H18, Ncema and SST8135 as having both specific adaptations to future climates as well as wide adaption to multiple environments. The genotypes may be used as sources (parents for crosses) for wide adaptation in breeding programmes in the wake of predicted future climate environments. PCA biplot analysis identified mean productivity (MP) and geometric mean productivity (GMP) as the best indices; hence can also be as secondary traits complimenting traditional agronomic and physiological traits in wheat breeding under environments varying in water availability, CO2 and temperature. The interactive effects of eCO2 with heat and water deficit stress did not significantly compromise the grain physical characteristics, flour extraction, protein content, falling number and flour ash. eCO2 ameliorated the negative effects of heat and water deficit by increasing protein content by 4.75 percent , Thesis (MSc) (Crop Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
- Authors: Mavindidze, Peter
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Plants--Effect of heat on , Growth (Plants)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20664 , vital:46422
- Description: Future climate is predicted to be characterised by elevated carbon dioxide (eCO2), as well as more incidences of heat and water deficit. eCO2 has been widely reported as enhancing growth, biomass and grain yield. To investigate the interactive effects of abiotic stresses on genotypic performance, an experiment was established in open-top chambers at the University of Rhodes eCO2 facility in Grahamstown, South Africa. The specific objectives of the study were: i) to evaluate the effects of eCO2 on wheat grain yield, yield components and grain quality under heat and terminal water deficit conditions; ii) to identify cultivar sources of tolerance to combined water deficit and heat stress under eCO2; iii) to identify appropriate stress indices that can be used as screening tools for tolerance to combined effects of water deficit and heat stress under eCO2. A total of 19 wheat genotypes were evaluated in three environments varying in CO2, temperature and water deficit during the 2019 winter season. The experiment was laid out in a split-split plot design arranged in blocks inside the chambers. The parameters recorded were: leaf water potential (LWP), biomass content (TB), number of productive tillers (NPT), days to flowering (DTA), days to maturity (DTM), plant height (PH), thousand kernel weight (TKW), number of kernels per spike (KPS), kernel weight per spike (KWS) and total grain weight (TGW). The following stress indices were determined: tolerance index, stress tolerance, yield susceptibility index, mean productivity, geometric mean productivity, stress intensity index and yield index. Elevated atmospheric CO2 ameliorated the negative effects of combined heat and water deficit stress by enhancing LWP, NPT, KPS, TB and TGW. Wheat genotypes responded the same way to CO2 with respect to grain yield. Furthermore, adequate water supply mitigated the adverse effects of heat stress. In addition, the combined effects of eCO2, heat and water deficit are confounding and hypo-additive in nature. The separation of environmental effects revealed that significant genotypic responses on grain yield and biomass were caused by heat and water deficit stress, while eCO2 mitigated their negative effects, promoting growth and reproduction. Both Principal component analysis (PCA) biplot analysis and cultivar superiority measure proved to be reliable statistical tools since they managed to identify 13-5HTSBWYT-H18, Ncema and SST8135 as having both specific adaptations to future climates as well as wide adaption to multiple environments. The genotypes may be used as sources (parents for crosses) for wide adaptation in breeding programmes in the wake of predicted future climate environments. PCA biplot analysis identified mean productivity (MP) and geometric mean productivity (GMP) as the best indices; hence can also be as secondary traits complimenting traditional agronomic and physiological traits in wheat breeding under environments varying in water availability, CO2 and temperature. The interactive effects of eCO2 with heat and water deficit stress did not significantly compromise the grain physical characteristics, flour extraction, protein content, falling number and flour ash. eCO2 ameliorated the negative effects of heat and water deficit by increasing protein content by 4.75 percent , Thesis (MSc) (Crop Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
Groundwater exploration using borehole and geophysical techniques in the east of Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality (formerly Nkonkobe Local Municipality) in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Xanga, Sithule
- Date: 2021-07
- Subjects: Groundwater ecology , Geophysical instruments , Borehole gravimetry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22643 , vital:52616
- Description: The study area lies in the eastern portion of Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality (RMLM), formerly known as Nkonkobe Local Municipality within the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa in the southeastern portion of the main Karoo Basin. Its northen part is mountainous with high altitude of about 1500 m with dense vegetation, whereas the southern part attains low altitude of about 600 m with sparse vegetation. The entire study area is covered on the surface by the Beaufort Group sediments comprised of three geological formations namely Middleton Formation, Balfour Formation members (Oudeberg, Daggaboersnek, Baberskrans, Elandsberg, and Pilangkloof), and the Katberg Formation. Karoo igneous bodies (dolerite dykes and sills) intruded the sediments causing fracturing. The area receives mean annual precipitation of about 54 mm. It is semi-arid to dry with insufficient surface water resources and hence the need for this research to explore for potential groundwater. Many techniques were employed to reveal the surface and subsurface geology, including groundwater potential areas using climate data, vegetation cover, borehole data analysis, geological field mapping, rock samples collection for petrographic analysis, a density-porosity determination, magnetic data analysis, and electrical resistivity tomography. The study area was divided into seven sub-regions, SR1 to SR7. The climate data showed that the area experiences high monthly average temperatures of about 21.6 °C during the summer, and is a semi-arid to dry region. Vegetation cover is dense in the mountainous northern part of the study area. It receives comparatively high rainfall, experiences less evapotranspiration than the southern part the low altitude, receives less rainfall, and has relatively high temperatures and evapotranspiration. A total of 385 boreholes from the Department Water and Sanitation were analysed and these showed that sub-regions SR1 up to SR7 had average borehole depths ranging from 51.9 to 67.7 m, water strike depths from 13.8 to 21.7 m and yields from 0.8 to 1.9 L/s. Sub-regions SR2, SR4, SR5, while SR7 have an average yield ≥ 1.4 L/s up to 1.9 L/s and are classified in this study as having a good or high groundwater yield potential. Fifteen thin sections were studied indicating that the Beaufort Group has mudstone, shale and fine-grained sandstone. The latter was dominant in the studied thin sections with 70 – 80 % quartz, 15 – 20 % groundmass, 5 – 10 % of feldspars, 2 – 5 % biotite, and some had vein like cracks filled with clay cement. Laboratory studies show average dry densities for the formations vary from 2.44 to 2.65 g/cm3, and porosities range from 1.6 to 4.0 %. Magnetic grid data obtained from the Council for Geoscience (CGS) were reduced to the pole, first vertical derivative and analytic signal maps were generated to delineate magnetic sources in the sediments. The magnetic anomalies showed lineaments and ring-shaped patterns that were interpreted to be due to Karoo dykes and sills, respectively. Some of these intrusions are mapped on the geological map and quite a number are not mapped as they are under sediment cover. The intrusions are important in groundwater exploration as they would have caused fracturing of surrounding formations causing increased secondary porosity and permeability. Further, they are groundwater localisers. Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) was carried out at 12 selected sites using the dipoledipole and Wenner-Schlumberger arrays, with a maximum cable length of 360 m was used with an approximate maximum depth of investigation of 70 m. Most of the sites’ inverted models show a low resistivity top layer of about 10 m thickness, which is inferred to be topsoil with moisture/water and or clayey content. A high resistivity second layer underneath the top layer, and is interpreted to be slightly weathered sandstone at its top grading into compact sandstones at the bottom of the investigation depth. Four site results show models with an intermediate layer between the top and bottom layers consisting of moderate resistivity values due to mudstones. Most of the models have vertical, narrow, low resistivity zones extending from the surface to the bottom layer, interpreted as fracturing. The top layer could be an unconfined aquifer during the wet months but is likely to dry up during the dry, hot months. The inferred fractures that extend deeper from the surface could be good groundwater targets to drill boreholes. Dolerite intrusions can act as natural groundwater barriers depending on their orientation hence such structures are the main targets when searching for groundwater. Vegetation cover observed on satellite images of remote sensing can be used along with other techniques to explore for groundwater. It is recommended that future ERT surveys should measure both electrical resistivity and induced polarization chargeability to discriminate between water and clay influence. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-07
- Authors: Xanga, Sithule
- Date: 2021-07
- Subjects: Groundwater ecology , Geophysical instruments , Borehole gravimetry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22643 , vital:52616
- Description: The study area lies in the eastern portion of Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality (RMLM), formerly known as Nkonkobe Local Municipality within the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa in the southeastern portion of the main Karoo Basin. Its northen part is mountainous with high altitude of about 1500 m with dense vegetation, whereas the southern part attains low altitude of about 600 m with sparse vegetation. The entire study area is covered on the surface by the Beaufort Group sediments comprised of three geological formations namely Middleton Formation, Balfour Formation members (Oudeberg, Daggaboersnek, Baberskrans, Elandsberg, and Pilangkloof), and the Katberg Formation. Karoo igneous bodies (dolerite dykes and sills) intruded the sediments causing fracturing. The area receives mean annual precipitation of about 54 mm. It is semi-arid to dry with insufficient surface water resources and hence the need for this research to explore for potential groundwater. Many techniques were employed to reveal the surface and subsurface geology, including groundwater potential areas using climate data, vegetation cover, borehole data analysis, geological field mapping, rock samples collection for petrographic analysis, a density-porosity determination, magnetic data analysis, and electrical resistivity tomography. The study area was divided into seven sub-regions, SR1 to SR7. The climate data showed that the area experiences high monthly average temperatures of about 21.6 °C during the summer, and is a semi-arid to dry region. Vegetation cover is dense in the mountainous northern part of the study area. It receives comparatively high rainfall, experiences less evapotranspiration than the southern part the low altitude, receives less rainfall, and has relatively high temperatures and evapotranspiration. A total of 385 boreholes from the Department Water and Sanitation were analysed and these showed that sub-regions SR1 up to SR7 had average borehole depths ranging from 51.9 to 67.7 m, water strike depths from 13.8 to 21.7 m and yields from 0.8 to 1.9 L/s. Sub-regions SR2, SR4, SR5, while SR7 have an average yield ≥ 1.4 L/s up to 1.9 L/s and are classified in this study as having a good or high groundwater yield potential. Fifteen thin sections were studied indicating that the Beaufort Group has mudstone, shale and fine-grained sandstone. The latter was dominant in the studied thin sections with 70 – 80 % quartz, 15 – 20 % groundmass, 5 – 10 % of feldspars, 2 – 5 % biotite, and some had vein like cracks filled with clay cement. Laboratory studies show average dry densities for the formations vary from 2.44 to 2.65 g/cm3, and porosities range from 1.6 to 4.0 %. Magnetic grid data obtained from the Council for Geoscience (CGS) were reduced to the pole, first vertical derivative and analytic signal maps were generated to delineate magnetic sources in the sediments. The magnetic anomalies showed lineaments and ring-shaped patterns that were interpreted to be due to Karoo dykes and sills, respectively. Some of these intrusions are mapped on the geological map and quite a number are not mapped as they are under sediment cover. The intrusions are important in groundwater exploration as they would have caused fracturing of surrounding formations causing increased secondary porosity and permeability. Further, they are groundwater localisers. Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) was carried out at 12 selected sites using the dipoledipole and Wenner-Schlumberger arrays, with a maximum cable length of 360 m was used with an approximate maximum depth of investigation of 70 m. Most of the sites’ inverted models show a low resistivity top layer of about 10 m thickness, which is inferred to be topsoil with moisture/water and or clayey content. A high resistivity second layer underneath the top layer, and is interpreted to be slightly weathered sandstone at its top grading into compact sandstones at the bottom of the investigation depth. Four site results show models with an intermediate layer between the top and bottom layers consisting of moderate resistivity values due to mudstones. Most of the models have vertical, narrow, low resistivity zones extending from the surface to the bottom layer, interpreted as fracturing. The top layer could be an unconfined aquifer during the wet months but is likely to dry up during the dry, hot months. The inferred fractures that extend deeper from the surface could be good groundwater targets to drill boreholes. Dolerite intrusions can act as natural groundwater barriers depending on their orientation hence such structures are the main targets when searching for groundwater. Vegetation cover observed on satellite images of remote sensing can be used along with other techniques to explore for groundwater. It is recommended that future ERT surveys should measure both electrical resistivity and induced polarization chargeability to discriminate between water and clay influence. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-07
Investigating communal farmer’s perceptions on production practices and evaluating pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers
- Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Authors: Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Boran cattle , Nguni cattle , Cattle breeds
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22721 , vital:52672
- Description: This study's overall objective was to investigate communal farmers' perceptions on production practices and evaluate pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers. On objective one farmers’ knowledge and perceptions on cattle breeds, management, and marketing channels in selected villages of Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa were evaluated. Interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire divided into demographic information and relevant cattle production practices, following a snowball technique to select 101 cattle-keeping households from Gaga, Ntselamanzi, and Ncerha villages. Most of the interviewed cattle farmers were males (65percent), in the age range of 40-60 years, with a primary-matric educational level. Among others, they highlighted financial security (47percent) and traditional ceremonies (26percent) as the reasons for keeping cattle. Most dominant in their herds were the Boran (49percent) and crossbreds (23percent) reared extensively with some supplementation (nutritional and medicinal). Their breed selection was based on disease and tick tolerance, temperament, and product (milk and meat) quality. It was noted that most of the interviewed cattle owners have the basic knowledge of good management practices, breed differences, and marketing chains. They related to low productivity to diseases, lack of knowledge, and poor resources. On the second objective pre-slaughter blood-based stress indicators and their subsequent effects were evaluated on beef quality of extensively reared Nguni and Boran steers . Twenty steers (10 Nguni and 10 Boran) aged 18 months were divided into two groups (with 5 of each breed per group) and transported from the University of Fort Hare Honeydale farm to the East London abattoir in the morning and afternoon trips. Upon arrival at the abattoir, the steers were held in lairage units for 24 hours (group 1) and 16 hours (group 2) until slaughter. Blood samples were drawn using a needle and vacutainer tubes from each steer's jugular vein at the farm before transportation, upon arrival at the abattoir, and during slaughter to perform cortisol, glucose, and routine haematological analysis. M. longissimus dorsi samples were harvested on the left side of each carcass to measure the meat quality attributes. Interactions between the observed production-stage activities, breeds, and physiological changes of these steers were recognized; with cortisol and glucose increasing (P ≤ 0.05) during transportation (4.15±0.46 ng/mL and 5.35±0.46nmol/L respectively) and also with farm group 1 showing higher cortisol (42.62±14.47 ng/mL) than the second group. Furthermore, all steers that were in slaughter group 1 showed less cortisol (101.49±14.47 ng/mL) and glucose (6.50±14.47 nmol/L) levels than those in group 2. In addition, Boran steers had higher packed cell volume, erythrocyte count, and haemoglobin values (33.27±0.54 percent, 7.66±0.19 106 μL, and 11.15±0.16 g/dl respectively) compared to Nguni steers in all production-stages. Later in the experiment, the effect of breed type, production stage activities (farm handling, transportation, and lairage duration), and stress responsiveness on some meat quality parameters (pH, lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), hue, Chroma, thawing and cooking loss, and tenderness) collected from the steers were measured. It was observed that the group lairaged for 16 hours produced the highest L* value (36.25±0.88) compared to those lairaged for 24 hours. As for the b* and hue of the meat, there were positive interactions between the breed type and the production stages (p<0.05). Lastly, cooking loss and tenderness were significantly affected by the breed type in all groups, with Nguni having the most tender meat (24.06±1.39 percent) and less cooking loss (16.92±1.33 percent) than Boran breeds. Therefore, the production stage conditions and breed type influenced some physiological stress-indicators and meat quality of Boran and Nguni steers raised on natural pastures. However, there were not many differences observed between the groups and breeds. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Boran cattle , Nguni cattle , Cattle breeds
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22721 , vital:52672
- Description: This study's overall objective was to investigate communal farmers' perceptions on production practices and evaluate pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers. On objective one farmers’ knowledge and perceptions on cattle breeds, management, and marketing channels in selected villages of Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa were evaluated. Interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire divided into demographic information and relevant cattle production practices, following a snowball technique to select 101 cattle-keeping households from Gaga, Ntselamanzi, and Ncerha villages. Most of the interviewed cattle farmers were males (65percent), in the age range of 40-60 years, with a primary-matric educational level. Among others, they highlighted financial security (47percent) and traditional ceremonies (26percent) as the reasons for keeping cattle. Most dominant in their herds were the Boran (49percent) and crossbreds (23percent) reared extensively with some supplementation (nutritional and medicinal). Their breed selection was based on disease and tick tolerance, temperament, and product (milk and meat) quality. It was noted that most of the interviewed cattle owners have the basic knowledge of good management practices, breed differences, and marketing chains. They related to low productivity to diseases, lack of knowledge, and poor resources. On the second objective pre-slaughter blood-based stress indicators and their subsequent effects were evaluated on beef quality of extensively reared Nguni and Boran steers . Twenty steers (10 Nguni and 10 Boran) aged 18 months were divided into two groups (with 5 of each breed per group) and transported from the University of Fort Hare Honeydale farm to the East London abattoir in the morning and afternoon trips. Upon arrival at the abattoir, the steers were held in lairage units for 24 hours (group 1) and 16 hours (group 2) until slaughter. Blood samples were drawn using a needle and vacutainer tubes from each steer's jugular vein at the farm before transportation, upon arrival at the abattoir, and during slaughter to perform cortisol, glucose, and routine haematological analysis. M. longissimus dorsi samples were harvested on the left side of each carcass to measure the meat quality attributes. Interactions between the observed production-stage activities, breeds, and physiological changes of these steers were recognized; with cortisol and glucose increasing (P ≤ 0.05) during transportation (4.15±0.46 ng/mL and 5.35±0.46nmol/L respectively) and also with farm group 1 showing higher cortisol (42.62±14.47 ng/mL) than the second group. Furthermore, all steers that were in slaughter group 1 showed less cortisol (101.49±14.47 ng/mL) and glucose (6.50±14.47 nmol/L) levels than those in group 2. In addition, Boran steers had higher packed cell volume, erythrocyte count, and haemoglobin values (33.27±0.54 percent, 7.66±0.19 106 μL, and 11.15±0.16 g/dl respectively) compared to Nguni steers in all production-stages. Later in the experiment, the effect of breed type, production stage activities (farm handling, transportation, and lairage duration), and stress responsiveness on some meat quality parameters (pH, lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), hue, Chroma, thawing and cooking loss, and tenderness) collected from the steers were measured. It was observed that the group lairaged for 16 hours produced the highest L* value (36.25±0.88) compared to those lairaged for 24 hours. As for the b* and hue of the meat, there were positive interactions between the breed type and the production stages (p<0.05). Lastly, cooking loss and tenderness were significantly affected by the breed type in all groups, with Nguni having the most tender meat (24.06±1.39 percent) and less cooking loss (16.92±1.33 percent) than Boran breeds. Therefore, the production stage conditions and breed type influenced some physiological stress-indicators and meat quality of Boran and Nguni steers raised on natural pastures. However, there were not many differences observed between the groups and breeds. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
Development of a Mobile-Based Livestock Breeding Management System for Communal Farmers in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Aduradola, Oluwatobi John
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems , Mobile computing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20600 , vital:46364
- Description: More than a decade ago, South Africa realized the significance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and its use in delivering several services; there are still several challenges that block implementing an ICT-based system to deliver services and information better. Since communal development is still one of the country's biggest concerns, ICT is among several advances and views recognized for speeding up communal development and providing for the country's economic growth. This research aimed to investigate and implement ICT tools for communal farmers in the context of information needs and information dissemination. The research concentrated on the technical tools and skills needed to implement an ICT tool for communal farmers and other stakeholders. A prototyping methodology was used in this research in the development of the required prototype. A study was then conducted to understand the present state and the information needs of communal farmers where the questionnaire was administered. The research results demonstrated the critical need for communal farmers to get information timely at their convenience. A mobile database system was then designed and developed that suits communal farmers' nature. This system was an offline android application that assists with their information need and its dissemination, and it allows the sharing of the communal farmer's data to other stakeholders. , Thesis (MSc) (Computer Science)-- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-05
- Authors: Aduradola, Oluwatobi John
- Date: 2021-05
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems , Mobile computing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20600 , vital:46364
- Description: More than a decade ago, South Africa realized the significance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and its use in delivering several services; there are still several challenges that block implementing an ICT-based system to deliver services and information better. Since communal development is still one of the country's biggest concerns, ICT is among several advances and views recognized for speeding up communal development and providing for the country's economic growth. This research aimed to investigate and implement ICT tools for communal farmers in the context of information needs and information dissemination. The research concentrated on the technical tools and skills needed to implement an ICT tool for communal farmers and other stakeholders. A prototyping methodology was used in this research in the development of the required prototype. A study was then conducted to understand the present state and the information needs of communal farmers where the questionnaire was administered. The research results demonstrated the critical need for communal farmers to get information timely at their convenience. A mobile database system was then designed and developed that suits communal farmers' nature. This system was an offline android application that assists with their information need and its dissemination, and it allows the sharing of the communal farmer's data to other stakeholders. , Thesis (MSc) (Computer Science)-- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-05
Characterization of sandstone reservoirs and hydrocarbon generation potential of selected four wells in the Pletmos basin, offshore South Africa
- Moloi, Busiswa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6815-4901
- Authors: Moloi, Busiswa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6815-4901
- Date: 2021-06
- Subjects: Hydrocarbon reservoirs
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22512 , vital:52387
- Description: This study focused on the use of data from four wells (Ga-M1, Ga-S1, Ga-Z1, and Gb-J1) comprises of the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous shallow marine clastic sandstones consisting of wildcat wells located in Block 11 of the Pletmos Basin, a sub-basin of the Southern Outeniqua Basin, south offshore South Africa. This research evaluates the hydrocarbon potential in the Pletmos Basin by integrating core and well log data to characterize the source and reservoir rock potential. The methods implemented consist of a mineralogical and petrological analysis of about 300 thin section slides from four wells were studied. Stratigraphic profile computation from core logging, geochemistry analysis focusing on total organic carbon (TOC), geophysical wireline logs, conventional core analysis, geological well reports, and petrophysical analysis (water saturation, porosity, permeability, and volume of clay) were done using Interactive Petrophysics software. The different datasets were used to delineate how the mineralogy, total organic carbon content, poro-perm properties, fluid saturation, and volume of clay impact the hydrocarbon production potential. The evaluated sandstones have depths ranging from 2523.9 m to 3397.2 m with varying thickness depending on the position of the well. The results indicate that the study area consists of shallow marine clastic sandstones with sparse siltstones and mudstone that are fine-grained to silty in texture. The sedimentary sequence is characterized by moderate to intense bioturbation. Depositional environment was in a reducing condition indicated by plenty of glauconites. The tight fine-grained sandstones have low porosity values ranging from 4.5% to 13.8% in the selected intervals. The low porosity values may have been caused by the quartz cement that is observed from the thin sections. Low permeability values ranging from 0 mD to 0.16 mD are present throughout the studied wells caused by calcite cement and clay matrix. Source rock in the studied wells have inferior TOC values ranging from 0.31 wt% to 0.51 wt%. The van Krevelen indicates that the analysed samples have very low hydrogen index (HI) values and are consistent with Type III Kerogen (gas prone). A total of six reservoirs were identified. For well Ga-M1, one reservoir interval (2988.2 m – 30281 m) was selected and is located at BCII formation and was classified as a nonproducing reservoir due to its high water saturation content of 94.2%, even though it has an average porosity of 10.6%. Two reservoirs were selected for well Ga-S1, reservoir one (3026.3 m – 3107.7 m) is located within the 13AT1 formation and was classified as a producing reservoir with an average porosity of 11.9%, water saturation of 38.3%, and volume of clay of 29.5%. Reservoir 2 (3380.7 m – 3397.2 m) and the reservoirs (2970.20 m – 2993.0 m and 3006.80 m – 3049.50 m) from well Ga-Z1 located between the 9AT1 – BCVI formations were classified as non-reservoirs. One selected reservoir from well Gb-J1 had promising gas shows with an average porosity of 19%, water saturation value of 34.8%, and volume of shale of 33.1%. However, well Ga-S1 has a large interval with hydrocarbon potential compared to the well Gb-J1. Results indicate that the absence of hydrocarbon accumulation may result from non-effective seals due to the silty texture of the reservoir sandstones. Also, the presence of calcareous cement, clay minerals, and the argillaceous matrix reduce the porosity and permeability characteristics. To better understand the hydrocarbon potential of the Pletmos Basin, 3D seismic data is recommended to perform seismic well tie analysis for correlation between well log and seismic data to understand the basin‟s potential better. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-06
- Authors: Moloi, Busiswa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6815-4901
- Date: 2021-06
- Subjects: Hydrocarbon reservoirs
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22512 , vital:52387
- Description: This study focused on the use of data from four wells (Ga-M1, Ga-S1, Ga-Z1, and Gb-J1) comprises of the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous shallow marine clastic sandstones consisting of wildcat wells located in Block 11 of the Pletmos Basin, a sub-basin of the Southern Outeniqua Basin, south offshore South Africa. This research evaluates the hydrocarbon potential in the Pletmos Basin by integrating core and well log data to characterize the source and reservoir rock potential. The methods implemented consist of a mineralogical and petrological analysis of about 300 thin section slides from four wells were studied. Stratigraphic profile computation from core logging, geochemistry analysis focusing on total organic carbon (TOC), geophysical wireline logs, conventional core analysis, geological well reports, and petrophysical analysis (water saturation, porosity, permeability, and volume of clay) were done using Interactive Petrophysics software. The different datasets were used to delineate how the mineralogy, total organic carbon content, poro-perm properties, fluid saturation, and volume of clay impact the hydrocarbon production potential. The evaluated sandstones have depths ranging from 2523.9 m to 3397.2 m with varying thickness depending on the position of the well. The results indicate that the study area consists of shallow marine clastic sandstones with sparse siltstones and mudstone that are fine-grained to silty in texture. The sedimentary sequence is characterized by moderate to intense bioturbation. Depositional environment was in a reducing condition indicated by plenty of glauconites. The tight fine-grained sandstones have low porosity values ranging from 4.5% to 13.8% in the selected intervals. The low porosity values may have been caused by the quartz cement that is observed from the thin sections. Low permeability values ranging from 0 mD to 0.16 mD are present throughout the studied wells caused by calcite cement and clay matrix. Source rock in the studied wells have inferior TOC values ranging from 0.31 wt% to 0.51 wt%. The van Krevelen indicates that the analysed samples have very low hydrogen index (HI) values and are consistent with Type III Kerogen (gas prone). A total of six reservoirs were identified. For well Ga-M1, one reservoir interval (2988.2 m – 30281 m) was selected and is located at BCII formation and was classified as a nonproducing reservoir due to its high water saturation content of 94.2%, even though it has an average porosity of 10.6%. Two reservoirs were selected for well Ga-S1, reservoir one (3026.3 m – 3107.7 m) is located within the 13AT1 formation and was classified as a producing reservoir with an average porosity of 11.9%, water saturation of 38.3%, and volume of clay of 29.5%. Reservoir 2 (3380.7 m – 3397.2 m) and the reservoirs (2970.20 m – 2993.0 m and 3006.80 m – 3049.50 m) from well Ga-Z1 located between the 9AT1 – BCVI formations were classified as non-reservoirs. One selected reservoir from well Gb-J1 had promising gas shows with an average porosity of 19%, water saturation value of 34.8%, and volume of shale of 33.1%. However, well Ga-S1 has a large interval with hydrocarbon potential compared to the well Gb-J1. Results indicate that the absence of hydrocarbon accumulation may result from non-effective seals due to the silty texture of the reservoir sandstones. Also, the presence of calcareous cement, clay minerals, and the argillaceous matrix reduce the porosity and permeability characteristics. To better understand the hydrocarbon potential of the Pletmos Basin, 3D seismic data is recommended to perform seismic well tie analysis for correlation between well log and seismic data to understand the basin‟s potential better. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-06
The investigation of groundwater potential zones in the Neotectonic area of Ntabankulu Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Nonkula, Zenande https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3858-7703
- Authors: Nonkula, Zenande https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3858-7703
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Groundwater , Water-supply , Neotectonics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22875 , vital:53068
- Description: Ntabankulu extends from latitude 30° 51' 09"S to 31° 09' 10" S and from longitude 29° 06' 51"E to 29° 23' 49"E in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Ntabankulu Local Municipality has 141 villages with 125 976 population size. About 36% of villages do not have water sources, 38% have partial functional water sources, 6% have non-functional water sources, and 20 % have reliable water sources, primarily rivers (Mnceba, Caba and Mzimvubu). Water is scarce in this area, especially in the dry season when perennial rivers and springs become dry. This research investigates groundwater potential zones and identifies suitable aquifers that can be developed to augment the water resources. The study involved: literature review, remote sensing, borehole and springs data, geological, petrographic and geophysical (gravity, magnetic and electrical resistivity) analyses. Each method has its purpose in finding the potential groundwater zones. Ntabankulu Local Municipality is located on the Karoo Supergroup in Ecca and Beaufort Group, Adelaide Subgroup and Balfour Formation. During field analysis, it was observed that this area consists of sandstone, shale and dolerite sills, dykes and complex rings. Fining up sequences, massive bedding, concretions, and spheroidal weathering were observed in sandstone, shale, and dolerite, respectively. Groundwater seepages are found within these structures. Sandstones are yellow due to the presence of limonite because of the continuous seepage. Red coloured laminated shale reflects that the rock has an iron oxidation state with hematite (Fe2O3) on the sediments. The Geographical Information Systems (GIS) method was used to extract lineaments. Lineaments dominate Ntabankulu with an NW-SE direction. Some of the lineaments are due to Karoo igneous intrusions, and others are due to neotectonic activities. Ntabankulu is located on the eastern and northern neotectonic belts. Geological maps and lineament maps were compared; it was observed that sandstones and shales are found on high liinament density areas. High yielding boreholes and springs coincide with lineaments, and some lineaments are faults. Hence areas that have high lineaments density could be groundwater potential zones. There are geological structures (faults, joints, and fractures) that are present. Systematic and non-systematic joints are found on sandstones which are due to extensional stress. These joints have been reactivated and acted as strike-slip faults. All these geological structures increase the porosity and permeability of the rocks. It was observed that the area of Ntabankulu consists of coarse-grained and medium-grained sandstone with quartz and orthoclase minerals. Dolerite consists of labradorite, clinopyroxene, olivine, oxide minerals with twinning formed during cooling and magma crystallisation. The gravity and magnetic methods were used to study the subsurface rock density contrasts and susceptibilities, respectively. The gravity and magnetic maps were generated in Geosoft Oasis 8.3 software. High gravity zones coincide with some of the mapped Karoo intrusions. Unmapped dolerite intrusions, lineaments and faults were inferred. The magnetic method delineated the subsurface structures (lineaments and faults), which are known to control groundwater accumulation. These structures and inferred dolerite intrusions helped in identifying groundwater potential zones. Groundwater potential zones were inferred in sedimentary rocks between dolerite intrusions and areas where sills and dykes intersect. A total of six vertical electrical soundings (VES) were conducted at Mzalwaneni and Tabankulu town areas using the Schlumberger configuration array with a maximum penetration depth of about 25- 33 m. The VES data were modelled in Winresist and Surfer 9 software to obtain 1D models and geoelectric sections, respectively. These 1D models have three layers with response curves of H-type. The top layer is about 0.4 - 0.7 m thick, with resistivity values from 12.3 – 1885.9 Ωm and is topsoil (sand and clay). The second layer of thickness 5.2 – 13.3 m has low resistivity values from 23.1- 44.9 Ωm. This layer is interpreted to be fractured shales and sandstones possibly containing water. The third layer of high resistivity values of 145.9 – 727.4 Ωm is inferred to be sandstone. The simultaneous interpretation of resistivity and normalised chargeability revealed that groundwater potential zones are characterised by low resistivity values and low normalised chargeability values for layers from 0.7 - 13.3 m depth. The groundwatwer in the area of Ntabankulu can be found on unconfined aquifers. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Nonkula, Zenande https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3858-7703
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Groundwater , Water-supply , Neotectonics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22875 , vital:53068
- Description: Ntabankulu extends from latitude 30° 51' 09"S to 31° 09' 10" S and from longitude 29° 06' 51"E to 29° 23' 49"E in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Ntabankulu Local Municipality has 141 villages with 125 976 population size. About 36% of villages do not have water sources, 38% have partial functional water sources, 6% have non-functional water sources, and 20 % have reliable water sources, primarily rivers (Mnceba, Caba and Mzimvubu). Water is scarce in this area, especially in the dry season when perennial rivers and springs become dry. This research investigates groundwater potential zones and identifies suitable aquifers that can be developed to augment the water resources. The study involved: literature review, remote sensing, borehole and springs data, geological, petrographic and geophysical (gravity, magnetic and electrical resistivity) analyses. Each method has its purpose in finding the potential groundwater zones. Ntabankulu Local Municipality is located on the Karoo Supergroup in Ecca and Beaufort Group, Adelaide Subgroup and Balfour Formation. During field analysis, it was observed that this area consists of sandstone, shale and dolerite sills, dykes and complex rings. Fining up sequences, massive bedding, concretions, and spheroidal weathering were observed in sandstone, shale, and dolerite, respectively. Groundwater seepages are found within these structures. Sandstones are yellow due to the presence of limonite because of the continuous seepage. Red coloured laminated shale reflects that the rock has an iron oxidation state with hematite (Fe2O3) on the sediments. The Geographical Information Systems (GIS) method was used to extract lineaments. Lineaments dominate Ntabankulu with an NW-SE direction. Some of the lineaments are due to Karoo igneous intrusions, and others are due to neotectonic activities. Ntabankulu is located on the eastern and northern neotectonic belts. Geological maps and lineament maps were compared; it was observed that sandstones and shales are found on high liinament density areas. High yielding boreholes and springs coincide with lineaments, and some lineaments are faults. Hence areas that have high lineaments density could be groundwater potential zones. There are geological structures (faults, joints, and fractures) that are present. Systematic and non-systematic joints are found on sandstones which are due to extensional stress. These joints have been reactivated and acted as strike-slip faults. All these geological structures increase the porosity and permeability of the rocks. It was observed that the area of Ntabankulu consists of coarse-grained and medium-grained sandstone with quartz and orthoclase minerals. Dolerite consists of labradorite, clinopyroxene, olivine, oxide minerals with twinning formed during cooling and magma crystallisation. The gravity and magnetic methods were used to study the subsurface rock density contrasts and susceptibilities, respectively. The gravity and magnetic maps were generated in Geosoft Oasis 8.3 software. High gravity zones coincide with some of the mapped Karoo intrusions. Unmapped dolerite intrusions, lineaments and faults were inferred. The magnetic method delineated the subsurface structures (lineaments and faults), which are known to control groundwater accumulation. These structures and inferred dolerite intrusions helped in identifying groundwater potential zones. Groundwater potential zones were inferred in sedimentary rocks between dolerite intrusions and areas where sills and dykes intersect. A total of six vertical electrical soundings (VES) were conducted at Mzalwaneni and Tabankulu town areas using the Schlumberger configuration array with a maximum penetration depth of about 25- 33 m. The VES data were modelled in Winresist and Surfer 9 software to obtain 1D models and geoelectric sections, respectively. These 1D models have three layers with response curves of H-type. The top layer is about 0.4 - 0.7 m thick, with resistivity values from 12.3 – 1885.9 Ωm and is topsoil (sand and clay). The second layer of thickness 5.2 – 13.3 m has low resistivity values from 23.1- 44.9 Ωm. This layer is interpreted to be fractured shales and sandstones possibly containing water. The third layer of high resistivity values of 145.9 – 727.4 Ωm is inferred to be sandstone. The simultaneous interpretation of resistivity and normalised chargeability revealed that groundwater potential zones are characterised by low resistivity values and low normalised chargeability values for layers from 0.7 - 13.3 m depth. The groundwatwer in the area of Ntabankulu can be found on unconfined aquifers. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Fossil Shell Flour supplementation in the diet of Dohne Merino rams: effects on feed acceptability and heat stress tolerance
- Mwanda, Lwazi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9503-6150
- Authors: Mwanda, Lwazi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9503-6150
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Sheep--Feeding and feeds , Animal feeding , Fossils
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22567 , vital:52464
- Description: The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of feeding Dohne Merino rams with various inclusion levels of Fossil Shell Flour (FSF) as an additive supplement on feed preference and heat tolerance response of Dohne Merino rams. The FSF is used as an animal feed additive and is known to be rich in minerals. A total of twenty-four Dohne Merino rams (average 19.8 ± 0.43 kg body weight) were used to determine the feed preference of varying inclusion levels fossil shell flour (0g FSF/kg, 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg). The preference was assessed using feed intake and coefficient of preference. The feed intake, co-efficient of preference and physical attributes of feed (such as colour, smell and texture) was measured. The feed intake and coefficient of preference were higher in rams supplemented 60g FSF/kg (P < 0.05). The physical attributes of the experimental diets were adjudged based on the colour, smell and texture. The colour of experimental diets were brown in 0g FSF/kg while in 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg the colour of experimental diets were light brown (P< 0.05). All the experimental diets had a pleasant smell (P< 0.05). The texture of diets with 0g FSF/kg was moderately firm while diets 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg had a firm texture. The order of preference of diets supplemented with fossil shell flour in terms of feed intake by Dohne Merino rams was: 60g FSF/kg > 40g FSF/kg > 20gFSF/kg > 0g FSF/kg. In the second experiment, a total of twenty-four (n=24) Dohne Merino rams of about 8 to 9 months old, weighing 19.8 ± 0.43 kg were confined in individual pens for a period of 100 days. The rams were subjected to four varying inclusion levels of fossil shell flour (0g/kg, 20g/kg, 40g/kg and 60g/kg. Water and feed intake were recorded throughout the period of successive feeding. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 45 and 90. The parameters studied included the average daily water intake (ADWI), average feed intake (ADFI), skin temperature (ST), respiration rate (RR), pulse rate (PR), rectal temperature (RT), total plasma protein (TPP), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). The inclusion levels of FSF affected both the ADWI and ADFI, showing a high-water intake and feed intake in rams subjected to 40g/kg of FSF followed by 60g FSF/kg, 20g FSF/kg and 0g FSF/kg (P< 0.01) respectively. All the physiological parameters ST, RT, RR, HR and PR decreased with an increase in the inclusion levels of FSF (P< 0.01). The TPP increased as the levels of FSF increases (P< 0.01). The MCHC was low in rams subjected to 60g FSF/kg and in 0g to 40g FSF/kg TPP increases as levels of FSF increases (P< 0.01). This study concluded that supplementing with various inclusion levels of FSF had a positive effect on feed preference. The FSF also showed the ability to mitigate heat stress in Dohne Merino rams. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-02
- Authors: Mwanda, Lwazi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9503-6150
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Sheep--Feeding and feeds , Animal feeding , Fossils
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22567 , vital:52464
- Description: The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of feeding Dohne Merino rams with various inclusion levels of Fossil Shell Flour (FSF) as an additive supplement on feed preference and heat tolerance response of Dohne Merino rams. The FSF is used as an animal feed additive and is known to be rich in minerals. A total of twenty-four Dohne Merino rams (average 19.8 ± 0.43 kg body weight) were used to determine the feed preference of varying inclusion levels fossil shell flour (0g FSF/kg, 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg). The preference was assessed using feed intake and coefficient of preference. The feed intake, co-efficient of preference and physical attributes of feed (such as colour, smell and texture) was measured. The feed intake and coefficient of preference were higher in rams supplemented 60g FSF/kg (P < 0.05). The physical attributes of the experimental diets were adjudged based on the colour, smell and texture. The colour of experimental diets were brown in 0g FSF/kg while in 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg the colour of experimental diets were light brown (P< 0.05). All the experimental diets had a pleasant smell (P< 0.05). The texture of diets with 0g FSF/kg was moderately firm while diets 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg had a firm texture. The order of preference of diets supplemented with fossil shell flour in terms of feed intake by Dohne Merino rams was: 60g FSF/kg > 40g FSF/kg > 20gFSF/kg > 0g FSF/kg. In the second experiment, a total of twenty-four (n=24) Dohne Merino rams of about 8 to 9 months old, weighing 19.8 ± 0.43 kg were confined in individual pens for a period of 100 days. The rams were subjected to four varying inclusion levels of fossil shell flour (0g/kg, 20g/kg, 40g/kg and 60g/kg. Water and feed intake were recorded throughout the period of successive feeding. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 45 and 90. The parameters studied included the average daily water intake (ADWI), average feed intake (ADFI), skin temperature (ST), respiration rate (RR), pulse rate (PR), rectal temperature (RT), total plasma protein (TPP), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). The inclusion levels of FSF affected both the ADWI and ADFI, showing a high-water intake and feed intake in rams subjected to 40g/kg of FSF followed by 60g FSF/kg, 20g FSF/kg and 0g FSF/kg (P< 0.01) respectively. All the physiological parameters ST, RT, RR, HR and PR decreased with an increase in the inclusion levels of FSF (P< 0.01). The TPP increased as the levels of FSF increases (P< 0.01). The MCHC was low in rams subjected to 60g FSF/kg and in 0g to 40g FSF/kg TPP increases as levels of FSF increases (P< 0.01). This study concluded that supplementing with various inclusion levels of FSF had a positive effect on feed preference. The FSF also showed the ability to mitigate heat stress in Dohne Merino rams. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-02
Sediment characteristics and hydrodynamic conditions of the Swartkops estuary, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Best, Lutho https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6400-9061
- Authors: Best, Lutho https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6400-9061
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Geology, Stratigraphic , Estuarine oceanography , Swartkops River Estuary (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22611 , vital:52596
- Description: This study is a part of an environmental research project aimed at providing assessment information to the grain-size distribution, mineral compositions, sedimentary structures and coastal erosion and rehabilitation methods along the Swartkops estuary, a recent developing industry area of South Africa. The methodologies used in this study comprise desk study of literature, field geological investigation and sampling, and laboratory analyses including grainsize analysis, thin section microscope study, XRD mineral composition study and SEM-EDX grain surface texture and composition analyses.The basement and surrounding areas of the Swartkops estuary consist of three formations: the Enon Formation of mainly conglomerate, the Kirkwood Formation of sandstone and mudstone, and the Sundays River Formation of dominantly mudstone with sandstone, which integrated as Uitenhage Group of Cretaceous sequence with modern estuarine sand and alluvial sediments filled in the entire basin. Grain size analysis is a useful tool to assess hydrodynamic environments. The grain size parameters showed that most of the Swartkops estuary sediments are moderately sorted with very few well and poorly sorted, coarse to fine skewed in grain size distribution.Whereas the Bluewater Bay beach sediments are mostly fine grained, well sorted, fine to coarse skewed in grain size distribution. The bivariate scatter plots are an indication of shallow marine environment by beach and coastal processes with the influence of water flow and wind influence during transportation and deposition processes. Mineralogy studies revealed that the Swartkops estuary sediments are dominantly composed of minerals such as: quartz, calcite, feldspar (orthoclase and plagioclase), aragonite, clay minerals (smectite and illite), and salts such as NaCl and MgCl2. Skeletal carbonate minerals (shell fragments) are more than chemical precipitated carbonate minerals. Quartz is the most abundant detrital mineral observed in all the sediments and it comes from inland and transported into the estuary and the beach by fluvial streams, whereas skeletal calcite/aragonite is the most abundant biogenic carbonate derived from sea side and transported by marine currents. The study shows that grain surface textures reveal the existence of several features that reflect the depositional environments. Observed grain surface textures by microscope and SEM include V-shape pits, upturned pits caused by mechanical crashing and corrosion during transportation; crystalline precipitation of calcite, quartz, salt and clay by chemical precipitation and crystallization; dissolution pits and pores formed by dissolution, and burrow and boring by biogenetic activities. The grain surface morphologies are closely linked to different formation mechanisms and depositional environments. Well-developed sedimentary structures have been found in the beach and estuary, including sand dune, sand ridge, straight and sinuous ripple, ripple marks, aeolian nail marks, high angle tabular cross bedding, antidune, rill mark, rhomboid mark, swash line, mud crack, gravel pavement, interfering ripples, flat topped ripple mark, linguiod mark, asymmetric sinuous ripples, dendritic pattern on sandy beach, boring and bioturbation, burrows desiccation cracks and water escape hole. Different sedimentary structures are reflective of different hydrodynamic conditions and depositional environments. Coastal erosion is a major problem for damage of road, bridge and properties in the industrial areas in Swartkops, which is also a task for this study. The author had suggested some practical mitigation-methods to local government, such as groins, revetments, shoreline hardening, planting of vegetation, and vertical walls, bulkheads, sills, which could be useful for the protection of coastal erosion. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
- Authors: Best, Lutho https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6400-9061
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Geology, Stratigraphic , Estuarine oceanography , Swartkops River Estuary (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22611 , vital:52596
- Description: This study is a part of an environmental research project aimed at providing assessment information to the grain-size distribution, mineral compositions, sedimentary structures and coastal erosion and rehabilitation methods along the Swartkops estuary, a recent developing industry area of South Africa. The methodologies used in this study comprise desk study of literature, field geological investigation and sampling, and laboratory analyses including grainsize analysis, thin section microscope study, XRD mineral composition study and SEM-EDX grain surface texture and composition analyses.The basement and surrounding areas of the Swartkops estuary consist of three formations: the Enon Formation of mainly conglomerate, the Kirkwood Formation of sandstone and mudstone, and the Sundays River Formation of dominantly mudstone with sandstone, which integrated as Uitenhage Group of Cretaceous sequence with modern estuarine sand and alluvial sediments filled in the entire basin. Grain size analysis is a useful tool to assess hydrodynamic environments. The grain size parameters showed that most of the Swartkops estuary sediments are moderately sorted with very few well and poorly sorted, coarse to fine skewed in grain size distribution.Whereas the Bluewater Bay beach sediments are mostly fine grained, well sorted, fine to coarse skewed in grain size distribution. The bivariate scatter plots are an indication of shallow marine environment by beach and coastal processes with the influence of water flow and wind influence during transportation and deposition processes. Mineralogy studies revealed that the Swartkops estuary sediments are dominantly composed of minerals such as: quartz, calcite, feldspar (orthoclase and plagioclase), aragonite, clay minerals (smectite and illite), and salts such as NaCl and MgCl2. Skeletal carbonate minerals (shell fragments) are more than chemical precipitated carbonate minerals. Quartz is the most abundant detrital mineral observed in all the sediments and it comes from inland and transported into the estuary and the beach by fluvial streams, whereas skeletal calcite/aragonite is the most abundant biogenic carbonate derived from sea side and transported by marine currents. The study shows that grain surface textures reveal the existence of several features that reflect the depositional environments. Observed grain surface textures by microscope and SEM include V-shape pits, upturned pits caused by mechanical crashing and corrosion during transportation; crystalline precipitation of calcite, quartz, salt and clay by chemical precipitation and crystallization; dissolution pits and pores formed by dissolution, and burrow and boring by biogenetic activities. The grain surface morphologies are closely linked to different formation mechanisms and depositional environments. Well-developed sedimentary structures have been found in the beach and estuary, including sand dune, sand ridge, straight and sinuous ripple, ripple marks, aeolian nail marks, high angle tabular cross bedding, antidune, rill mark, rhomboid mark, swash line, mud crack, gravel pavement, interfering ripples, flat topped ripple mark, linguiod mark, asymmetric sinuous ripples, dendritic pattern on sandy beach, boring and bioturbation, burrows desiccation cracks and water escape hole. Different sedimentary structures are reflective of different hydrodynamic conditions and depositional environments. Coastal erosion is a major problem for damage of road, bridge and properties in the industrial areas in Swartkops, which is also a task for this study. The author had suggested some practical mitigation-methods to local government, such as groins, revetments, shoreline hardening, planting of vegetation, and vertical walls, bulkheads, sills, which could be useful for the protection of coastal erosion. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
Assessing the invasive status and reproductive ecology of two Crataegus species in South Africa; Crataegus monogyna Jacq and C. mexicana DC
- Authors: Tshilingalinga, Sydney
- Date: 2021-03
- Subjects: Crataegus monogyna , Nonindigenous pests , Biological invasions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20904 , vital:46740
- Description: In South Africa different species, from the genus Crataegus, including Crataegus monogyna Jacq and C. mexicana DC have been introduced for various reasons in the past. Populations of these plants have now established in multiple provinces. However, the invasive status, risk and insect pollinators that promote their reproduction and dispersal have never been studied in South Africa. This study was aimed at 1) Assessing the risk of, and mapping two Crataegus species, Crataegus monogyna Jacq and C. mexicana DC in South Africa, 2) Determining the role and effectiveness of insects pollinators to fruiting of C. monogyna and C. mexicana, 3) Identifying flower visitors of C. monogyna and C. mexicana, and 4) documenting potential dispersal vectors for both species in the Eastern Cape Province. A framework entitled “Framework and guideline for conducting risk analysis under NEM: BA Alien and Invasive Species Regulation of 2014” was used to assess the risk of the two Crataegus spp, and we conducted field trips to various provinces in SA to map their distribution. The author conducted an exclusion experiment to determine the role and effectiveness of insect pollinators. Observations were conducted to identify flower visitors and potential dispersal vectors for both species. The risk analysis results suggested that both species pose a high risk of becoming invasive in South Africa. The eradication feasibility of both species was found to be medium with C. monogyna having an eradication feasibility score of 5 and C. mexicana having an eradication feasibility score of 4. This meant that there was a 50 percent chance for both species to be eradicated in South Africa currently. After a thorough risk analysis, it was recommended that both species be listed under category 1b on the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act. Category 1b species are invasive species that need to be controlled, and if possible, they must be eradicated, trading of species from this category is not allowed. Crataegus mexicana was found to be widespread in South Africa with ten relatively small populations distributed in 5 provinces; Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and Eastern Cape Province. Crataegus monogyna was found not to be widespread in South Africa, with only three populations found in the Eastern Cape Province. Insect pollinators contribute to the fruiting of both species in SA. However, the exotic plants were also observed to be able to self-pollinate when insects are excluded. Flowers of C. monogyna were visited by various insect species from orders Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, Coleoptera and Diptera, while C. mexicana is visited by species from the order Hymenoptera, Diptera, Lepidoptera and Coleoptera. Seventy-seven percent (77 percent) of potential dispersal vectors observed for C. monogyna were birds, and 15 percent were mammals. For C. mexicana, 71 percent of potential dispersal vectors observed were mammals, and 29 percent were birds. Crataegus monogyna and C. mexicana are emerging invasive alien species in South Africa, and not much is known about them. Although the two species are listed as invasive weeds in South Africa, very little is known about their invasive status in other parts of the world. This study has managed to give baseline information and data about both species which are already in South Africa. The baseline information and data include the population structure of both species, their distribution, the risk they pose to South Africa biodiversity and their reproduction ecology. Currently, there are no management plans in place for both species in South Africa, and this is because they are not listed yet in the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act of South Africa. However, this study recommends that current populations continue to be monitored, awareness of both species in various provinces be initiated to help in the discovery of new and emerging populations, and management options of large populations developed in the future. , Thesis (MSc) (Entomology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-03
- Authors: Tshilingalinga, Sydney
- Date: 2021-03
- Subjects: Crataegus monogyna , Nonindigenous pests , Biological invasions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20904 , vital:46740
- Description: In South Africa different species, from the genus Crataegus, including Crataegus monogyna Jacq and C. mexicana DC have been introduced for various reasons in the past. Populations of these plants have now established in multiple provinces. However, the invasive status, risk and insect pollinators that promote their reproduction and dispersal have never been studied in South Africa. This study was aimed at 1) Assessing the risk of, and mapping two Crataegus species, Crataegus monogyna Jacq and C. mexicana DC in South Africa, 2) Determining the role and effectiveness of insects pollinators to fruiting of C. monogyna and C. mexicana, 3) Identifying flower visitors of C. monogyna and C. mexicana, and 4) documenting potential dispersal vectors for both species in the Eastern Cape Province. A framework entitled “Framework and guideline for conducting risk analysis under NEM: BA Alien and Invasive Species Regulation of 2014” was used to assess the risk of the two Crataegus spp, and we conducted field trips to various provinces in SA to map their distribution. The author conducted an exclusion experiment to determine the role and effectiveness of insect pollinators. Observations were conducted to identify flower visitors and potential dispersal vectors for both species. The risk analysis results suggested that both species pose a high risk of becoming invasive in South Africa. The eradication feasibility of both species was found to be medium with C. monogyna having an eradication feasibility score of 5 and C. mexicana having an eradication feasibility score of 4. This meant that there was a 50 percent chance for both species to be eradicated in South Africa currently. After a thorough risk analysis, it was recommended that both species be listed under category 1b on the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act. Category 1b species are invasive species that need to be controlled, and if possible, they must be eradicated, trading of species from this category is not allowed. Crataegus mexicana was found to be widespread in South Africa with ten relatively small populations distributed in 5 provinces; Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and Eastern Cape Province. Crataegus monogyna was found not to be widespread in South Africa, with only three populations found in the Eastern Cape Province. Insect pollinators contribute to the fruiting of both species in SA. However, the exotic plants were also observed to be able to self-pollinate when insects are excluded. Flowers of C. monogyna were visited by various insect species from orders Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, Coleoptera and Diptera, while C. mexicana is visited by species from the order Hymenoptera, Diptera, Lepidoptera and Coleoptera. Seventy-seven percent (77 percent) of potential dispersal vectors observed for C. monogyna were birds, and 15 percent were mammals. For C. mexicana, 71 percent of potential dispersal vectors observed were mammals, and 29 percent were birds. Crataegus monogyna and C. mexicana are emerging invasive alien species in South Africa, and not much is known about them. Although the two species are listed as invasive weeds in South Africa, very little is known about their invasive status in other parts of the world. This study has managed to give baseline information and data about both species which are already in South Africa. The baseline information and data include the population structure of both species, their distribution, the risk they pose to South Africa biodiversity and their reproduction ecology. Currently, there are no management plans in place for both species in South Africa, and this is because they are not listed yet in the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act of South Africa. However, this study recommends that current populations continue to be monitored, awareness of both species in various provinces be initiated to help in the discovery of new and emerging populations, and management options of large populations developed in the future. , Thesis (MSc) (Entomology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-03
Effect of fire frequency on the recovery of soil invertebrate communities in semi-arid savanna biome of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Authors: Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Soil invertebrates , Fire ecology , Arid regions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22831 , vital:52946
- Description: Fires are common in South African savanna habitats, which can disrupt the dynamics of entire invertebrate populations, endangering biodiversity and the environment. The aim of this study was to look at how fire frequency affected invertebrate population dynamics and biodiversity in a 41-year-old fire experiment at the University of Fort Hare research farm in Alice. The experiment had six different levels of burning frequency: no-burn (K), annual burn (B1), biannual burn (B2), triennial burn (B3), quadrennial burn (B4), and sexennial burn (B6). The experimental plots were replicated two times in a randomized complete block design and have been continuously retained since 1980. A ground yellow mustard solution was used to collect earthworms, which were then identified by an earthworm taxonomist. Pitfall traps were used to collect ants and other insects, which were then identified under a microscope. In total, three soil samples were collected from each plot to assess selected soil nutrients, moisture, and pH. The Shannon diversity index, richness, and population of earthworms, ants, and other insects were calculated, and a one-way ANOVA analysis was done to check if the treatments differed significantly. A correlations study was used to look for any influence connected to soil parameters, including the Shannon diversity index, species richness, and density of soil invertebrates. According to our findings, the measured parameters did not show any significant differences in the measured parameters between the different frequency levels. All the plots had two species of earthworm , Proandricus timmianus and Proandricus beddardi except the biennial burn plot, which had all three, the afore mentioned species and one other unidentified species, Proandricus sp. The triennial burn treatment slightly enhanced the insect diversity, richness, and evenness of ant species difference while the diversity, evenness, and richness were lowest in the sexennial burn plot. However, there was no signif difference in population. After B4, the no burn plot had the second largest diversity and species richness, and the third highest species evenness and had a 100 percent species similarity index. The ants were evenly distributed in the no burn plot compared to the other plots, with K having a lower density than the other plots except for B4, K being slightly more diverse than B6, and B1 with a slightly lower diversity than the other plots, and it being the third species rich plot after B2 and B3, followed by the rest of the plots. This study implied that fire frequency has an insignificant impact on invertebrates’ communities in Savanna biomes words.icant , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Soil invertebrates , Fire ecology , Arid regions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22831 , vital:52946
- Description: Fires are common in South African savanna habitats, which can disrupt the dynamics of entire invertebrate populations, endangering biodiversity and the environment. The aim of this study was to look at how fire frequency affected invertebrate population dynamics and biodiversity in a 41-year-old fire experiment at the University of Fort Hare research farm in Alice. The experiment had six different levels of burning frequency: no-burn (K), annual burn (B1), biannual burn (B2), triennial burn (B3), quadrennial burn (B4), and sexennial burn (B6). The experimental plots were replicated two times in a randomized complete block design and have been continuously retained since 1980. A ground yellow mustard solution was used to collect earthworms, which were then identified by an earthworm taxonomist. Pitfall traps were used to collect ants and other insects, which were then identified under a microscope. In total, three soil samples were collected from each plot to assess selected soil nutrients, moisture, and pH. The Shannon diversity index, richness, and population of earthworms, ants, and other insects were calculated, and a one-way ANOVA analysis was done to check if the treatments differed significantly. A correlations study was used to look for any influence connected to soil parameters, including the Shannon diversity index, species richness, and density of soil invertebrates. According to our findings, the measured parameters did not show any significant differences in the measured parameters between the different frequency levels. All the plots had two species of earthworm , Proandricus timmianus and Proandricus beddardi except the biennial burn plot, which had all three, the afore mentioned species and one other unidentified species, Proandricus sp. The triennial burn treatment slightly enhanced the insect diversity, richness, and evenness of ant species difference while the diversity, evenness, and richness were lowest in the sexennial burn plot. However, there was no signif difference in population. After B4, the no burn plot had the second largest diversity and species richness, and the third highest species evenness and had a 100 percent species similarity index. The ants were evenly distributed in the no burn plot compared to the other plots, with K having a lower density than the other plots except for B4, K being slightly more diverse than B6, and B1 with a slightly lower diversity than the other plots, and it being the third species rich plot after B2 and B3, followed by the rest of the plots. This study implied that fire frequency has an insignificant impact on invertebrates’ communities in Savanna biomes words.icant , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04