https://www.tjas.org/ Tikrit Journal for Agricultural Sciences en daily 1 Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0330 Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0330 https://www.tjas.org/article_615.html The Comstock and Robinson design was used in this experiment, employing a line × tester mating system. The study involved four male wheat genotypes—Sham 6, Jad, Barcelona, and Adana—and three female genotypes: Abu Ghraib, Aras, and Aba 99. A total of 12 hybrids were produced and evaluated in both F₁ and F₂ generations using a Complete Randomized Block Design (CRBD) with three replications. Among the parents, Aras outperformed the others in most of the studied traits, with respective values of 90.21, 5.1, 235.29, 11.19, 42.83, 66.58, 332.50, and 20.10. The hybrids exhibited significant variation in the evaluated traits. The highest phenotypic variance was observed for grain yield per plant in both generations, reaching 30.30 in F₁ and 23.42 in F₂. Heritability for the number of effective tillers was high in the F₁ generation, reaching 0.76. Most hybrids showed statistically significant differences across the majority of traits studied. However, inbreeding depression was pronounced in hybrid (4×7) for the number of effective tillers (3.075), and in hybrid (1×5) for grain yield per plant, with corresponding harvest index values of 49.027 and 9.635. Additionally, hybrid (2×5) recorded a harvest index of 5.62. This study provides valuable insights for breeding programs and can aid in the development of improved wheat cultivars. https://www.tjas.org/article_592.html The aim of this study to know the impact of dried Tribulus terrestris extracts on growth performance in quail chicks. A total of 350 one-day-old quail chicks, averaging weight 7.50 g, and the chicks were randomly assigned to four groups, each group comprising four replicates and each replicate include 20 birds, G1 as control treatment (without supplementation), G2, G3 and G4 added 0.25, 0.500, and 0.750 g/Kg of dried Tribulus terrestris extract to diet. The results of this study showed a significant decreased(P < 0.05) in the age of sexual maturity for females and males in groups G2, G3, and G4 compared to the control group G1. Growth performance showed a significant increased(p<0.05) in the birds that drinking water had a Tribulus terrestris extract compared to the control group (G1). The results of this study concluded that adding Tribulus terrestris extract to drinking water can able to safe effect and improving healthy for quail chicks. https://www.tjas.org/article_594.html This study evaluated the immunogenic potential of Escherichia coli adjuvant proteins conjugated with zinc oxide nanoparticles as a novel immunization strategy in young lambs (3–3.5 months of age). Twenty lambs were randomly divided into four groups (n=5) after adaptation. Group 1 served as a negative control, while Group 2 was a positive control challenged subcutaneously with virulent E. coli (1 × 10⁷ CFU/ml) on day 28. Groups 3 and 4 received two subcutaneous doses of WCECK and ECCFPs proteins, respectively, at 14-day intervals, and were similarly challenged. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 7, 14, 28, and 35 to measure antibody levels (IgG-3, IgM) and proinflammatory cytokines (CXCL-2, IL-1β) via ELISA. Liver, spleen, and intestinal tissues were collected post-euthanasia for histopathological examination. The results demonstrated that both vaccinated and infected groups showed a time-dependent increase in IgG-3, IgM, CXCL-2, and IL-1β levels, reaching peak concentrations on day 35. Histopathological findings revealed necrotic and degenerative changes, inflammatory infiltration, congestion, and edema in target tissues. Conclusion, E. coli protein vaccines formulated with zinc oxide nanoparticles induced robust humoral and inflammatory responses in young lambs, suggesting their potential as candidate formulations for early protection against E. coli infections. https://www.tjas.org/article_596.html This study experimentally evaluated the fuel consumption and operating costs of a locally manufactured diesel-powered floating pumping station designed for operation under low river water levels in Iraq. The system consists of four pontoons supporting a centrifugal pump (Rovatti 5″ × 6″) driven by a 51 kW DEUTZ diesel engine. A factorial experiment was conducted in 2024 using three water depths (2, 2.5, and 3 m), three pump speeds (1500, 1600, and 1700 rpm), and three discharge pressures (2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 bar) with three replications in a completely randomized design. Fuel consumption was measured in L·h⁻¹ and economic analysis was performed to estimate fixed, variable, and total operating costs (ID·h⁻¹). The results showed that pump speed significantly affected fuel consumption and total operating costs (p ≤ 0.05). Increasing speed from 1500 to 1700 rpm increased fuel consumption from 5.14 to 11.49 L·h⁻¹, leading to a substantial rise in hourly operating costs. Discharge pressure also influenced fuel consumption, whereas water depth had no significant effect within the tested range. The lowest total operating cost was achieved at 1500 rpm under 3.5 bar discharge pressure. Economic analysis indicated that fuel costs constituted the largest proportion of total variable costs. The findings demonstrate that operating the floating pumping station at moderate engine speeds enhances fuel efficiency and reduces operational expenses. The study provides practical guidelines for optimizing the economic performance of floating pumping systems under fluctuating river water levels. https://www.tjas.org/article_595.html Drought stress threatens many regions of the world, resulting in reduced productivity for many vegetable crops, as it negatively affects higher plants, as it causes an increase in the production of free radicals, which are responsible for the oxidation and destruction of plant cells. So, this research work was carried out using squash as tested plant, aiming to unravel the multifaceted interplay among irrigation treatments at various levels (100, 75 and 50 % of irrigation requirement IR), organic fertilizer at different rates (0.0, 12 and 24 m3 ha-1) and various stress-alleviating substances (chitosan, yeast and polyethene glycol PEG). Plant height, fresh and dry weights, leaves area, chlorophyll a and b were measured at 45 days from sowing as well as fruit yield of all pickings was measured as total yield. The squash plants receiving 100% of IR demonstrated the highest values for all aforementioned traits. Conversely, these values exhibited a gradual decrease with reduced irrigation levels, reaching their lowest values in the treatment with 50% of IR. For example, the highest values of dry weight (130.41 g plant-1 for 1st season) were recorded with 100% of IR, while the lowest values (120.24 g plant-1 for 1st season) were recorded with 50% of IR. Furthermore, there are a progressive increase in the values as the application rate of organic fertilizer increased from 0.0 to 12 and subsequently to 24 m3 ha-1.  Spraying stimulants exerted a notable impact with the most effective treatment being PEG followed by yeast then chitosan. Notably, the performance in terms of the oxidative stress indicators and enzymatic antioxidants, subjected to water deficit (75% of IR) and fertilized with organic fertilizer (24 m3 ha-1), combined with stimulant sprays, surpassed those under conventional irrigation (100% of IR) in the absence of organic fertilizer. Finally, these findings align with the sustainable development goals, such as SDG2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Finally, these findings align with the Sustainable Development Goals, such as SDG2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) via the potential of holistic strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of water scarcity on vegetable crops. https://www.tjas.org/article_618.html A factorial controlled experiment was carried out at the College of  Medicinal and Industrial plants, Department of Medicinal and Industrial Plants, University of Kirkuk, This study was designed to systematically assess the individual and interactive effects of high-potassium fertilization and planting method on the vegetative growth performance of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare L.). A factorial experiment was implemented under field conditions using two planting methods (row sowing and broadcasting) and three concentrations of high-potash fertilizer (0, 2, and 3 g L⁻¹). The treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates to ensure experimental precision and minimize environmental variability. Statistical analysis was conducted using analysis of variance (ANOVA), and treatment means were separated according to Duncan’s Multiple Range Test at a significance level of P ≤ 0.05. The results demonstrated that increasing high-potassium fertilization significantly enhanced all evaluated growth parameters. The highest fertilizer concentration (3 g L⁻¹) produced the greatest values for plant height, number of branches per plant, stem diameter, days from planting to 50% flowering, and number of inflorescences. Furthermore, a significant interaction effect between fertilization level and planting method was observed, indicating that the combined application of optimal potassium supply and appropriate planting configuration maximized vegetative growth and reproductive development. https://www.tjas.org/article_601.html The primary objective was to evaluate the antioxidant and immunomodulatory efficacy of Azolla pinnata and four species of major Iraqi edible fungi, both in vitro and in vivo, using female white rats subjected to oral administration of lead acetate. Non-enzymatic antioxidant assays revealed that the reducing power increased proportionally with rising concentrations of both Azolla and fungal extracts, with 5% concentration exhibiting the highest reducing activity across all treatments. Extracts of Hericium erinaceus and Pleurotus eryngii demonstrated superior reducing capabilities, reaching values of 2.91 and 2.88, respectively. The greatest DPPH radical scavenging activity was observed at 5% concentration of H. erinaceus and P. ostreatus extracts, with inhibition rates of 58.37% and 56.25%, respectively. In enzymatic antioxidant assays, H. erinaceus extract at 5% concentration showed the highest catalase and peroxidase activities, measuring 351.27 and 2.73 units per gram of fresh tissue, respectively. Powders of H. erinaceus and Azolla at concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15% were incorporated into the feed to assess their immunological and health efficacy in lead-intoxicated white rats. Treatment with 15% Azolla and H. erinaceus powders yielded the most favorable results in restoring immune cell homeostasis, indicated by a reduction of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (N/L) ratio to 1.42 and 1.33, respectively—values nearing those recorded in the control group (1.35). Lead acetate administration alone induced significant immune dysregulation, evidenced by elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, reaching 22.41 pg/mL and 125.09 pg/mL, respectively. These markers were substantially reduced following treatments with Azolla and H. erinaceus, approaching physiological baseline levels, with the lowest concentrations attained at 15% dosage: 7.87 and 68.89 pg/mL for Azolla, and 5.9 and 55.67 pg/mL for H. erinaceus, respectively. Furthermore, lead exposure caused a notable decline in immunoglobulin levels (IgA, IgG, IgM, IgE) to 1.3, 6.31, 0.42, and 31.5 g/L, respectively. These levels were significantly elevated upon supplementation with Azolla (15%), reaching 2.68, 10.88, 1.28, and 60.71 g/L, and further increased with 15% H. erinaceus inclusion to 3.28, 15.06, 1.86, and 81.67 g/L, respectively. Histopathological evaluation revealed that Azolla and H. erinaceus treatments contributed to marked improvement in hepatic tissue architecture in treated rats. There was a reduction in hepatocellular degeneration and inflammation, regeneration of hepatic lobular structures with distinct cellular boundaries, as well as resolution of central vein necrosis and hemorrhage, indicating enhanced detoxification function. https://www.tjas.org/article_602.html Nowadays, increasing soil acidity and the resulting decline in soil fertility in the Ethiopian highlands are key factors limiting wheat yield. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the integrated effects of Erythrina abyssinica biomass (EAB), NP, and lime on soil acidity mitigation, soil fertility improvement, and wheat productivity in Hula and Bensa Daye, Ethiopia. Seven treatments were evaluated: control, full EAB dose, half EAB dose + half recommended NP, full lime + full recommended NP, full EAB + full lime + full NP, half EAB + half NP + half lime, and full NP fertilizers. The experiment was laid out in RCB design with three replications. The results showed that the integrated application of Erythrina abyssinica biomass (EAB), lime, and NP significantly influenced soil physicochemical properties and all wheat attributes. At both study locations, improved physicochemical properties, significantly the highest wheat growth, yield, and yield component attributes were obtained from treatment five (TRT5), which received full EAB + full lime + full NP fertilizers. The application of full EAB + full lime + full NP fertilizers increased wheat grain yield by 92.81% over the control at the Hula site. Similarly, at the Bensa Daye site, it increased wheat grain yield by 100% over the control treatment. The findings demonstrate that the integrated application of Erythrina abyssinica biomass, lime, and NP fertilizers improves soil physicochemical properties and enhances wheat performance in acidic soils. Therefore, amending acidic soils with EAB, lime, and inorganic fertilizers effectively mitigates acidity and enhances wheat productivity. https://www.tjas.org/article_617.html This study was conducted in Akre District - Iraq, during the period of 15/3/2022 - 1/2/2023 aiming to study the effect of fertilization with pigeon manure extract at three levels (0, 0.25, 0.50) l pot-1, and foliar application of some micronutrients solution at three concentrations (0, 0.5, 1) g l-1, on growth, flowering and yield of Agave amica (Medik.), cv. Single. The results showed that the highest values of leaves number, leaf width, length and diameter of the inflorescence, florets number, and diameter of the mother bulb were obtained when treated with pigeon manure extract at a 0.50. l pot-1. Foliar application of microelements at 0.50 g l-1 caused significant increase in leaves number, leaf width, length and width of the inflorescence, and florets number. The interaction between the two factors caused a significant increase in leaf length, length and diameter of the inflorescence, florets number, bulb diameter, bulb weight, total bulbs weight, bulbs number. From the data obtained can be concluded that fertilizing with pigeon manure extract and spraying microelements plays a positive role in improving the growth, flowering of tuberose. https://www.tjas.org/article_604.html This study was conducted at the Poultry Farm belongs to the Animal Production Department, College of Agriculture Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad, during the period from 8-5-2023 to 12-6-2023 to Investigate effect of supplementing radish seed oil to broiler diet on performance, blood biochemical and cecal bacterial count. One hundred and twenty unsexed commercial, one day initial average body wight (39-41) g of broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly distributed among four treatments, 30 birds per treatment, with three replicates and 10 birds per replicate. The chicks of the first treatment (T1) were fed a standard diet in addition to the radish seed oil at levels of 50, 100 and 150 ml/kg diet respectively. The results revealed that adding radish seed oil at three different levels to broiler diets led to higher significant (P≤0.01) average live body weight and accumulative feed conversion ratio compared to T1. Moreover, decreased (P≤0.05) serum glucose, cholesterol and Coliform count were found for all treatments compared to the control group. Higher significant (P≤0.01) Lactobacilli Count was noticed for supplementing radish seed oil compared with control group. In conclusion, supplementing radish seed oil to the diet improved the productive performance, blood biochemical and cecal bacterial count of broiler. https://www.tjas.org/article_606.html           The objective of this study was to prepare a nanoemulsion of apple seed oil and investigate its biological effects on cancerous and normal cell lines, as well as to study its efficacy in curing experimentally induced dermatitis in rats. Apple seed oil nanoemulsion was prepared through a mechanical emulsification method along with ultrasonic waves, employing a formulation containing 5% apple seed oil along with Tween 80 and glycerol as cofactors. The chemical constituents of apple seed oil were identified through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), wherein 22 chemical compounds were identified, of which 10E,12Z-octadecadienoic acid and oleic acid. Physical properties indicated that the nanoemulsion is stable during storage, as the size of the particles varied between 40-100 nm, along with a zeta potential of -35 mV. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay on the A431 melanoma cell line and the Vero normal cell line. The results showed that the nanoemulsion possesses a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect on cancer cell growth, with cancer cell viability 80% significantly reduced at high concentrations, while its effect on normal cells was relatively limited 20%. The therapeutic effect of the nanoemulsion-containing gel was also evaluated in a formalin-induced dermatitis model in rats. Histological examinations revealed a significant improvement in skin structure and a reduction in inflammatory infiltration and hyperkeratosis compared to the untreated group. These results indicate that the apple seed oil nanoemulsion possesses anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties with a good degree of biosafety, making it a promising candidate for future pharmaceutical and dermatological applications. https://www.tjas.org/article_605.html An experiment was conducted in the fields of the Department of Horticulture and Landscape / College of Agriculture / Tikrit University during 2024 growing season, to determine the effect of foliar spraying with benzyl adenine and nano calcium on some chemical properties of fig leaves, Brown Turkey cultivar. The trees were sprayed three times during the growing season with three concentrations of benzyl adenine (0, 75 and 150 mg L-1) and nano calcium oxide (0, 1.25 and 2.50 g L-1). The treatments arranged Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates and one tree as experimental unit. The results indicated that the spraying with benzyl adenine at 150 mg L-1 affected significantly and recorded the highest average of nitrogen (2.24%), calcium (1.466%), total chlorophyll and carotenoids (128.89 and 0.514 mg 100 g-1 fresh weight respectively) and lowest average of carbohydrate: nitrogen ratio (7.14) in fig leaf comparison control treatment that recorded 1.73%, 1.14%, 119.78 mg 100g-1, 0.227 mg 100 g-1 and 8.866 for previous characteristics respectively. Nano-calcium also affected significantly, it’s high concentration (2.5 g L-1) raised the leaf content of nitrogen (2.16%), calcium (1.425%), total chlorophyll and carotenoids (127.67 and 0.427 mg 100 g-1 fresh weight) comparison to the control treatment that recorded a lowest average of nitrogen, calcium, total chlorophyll and carotenoids which were 1.88%, 1.137%, 120.00 and 0.319 mg 100 g-1 fresh weight for previous characteristics. These results reflected to effectiveness of interaction treatments, that the interaction treatment between the height concentration of benzyl adenine and nano-calcium was a best treatment and recommended. https://www.tjas.org/article_607.html             A field experiment was conducted during the 2022–2023 growing season at Al-Faris Agricultural Research Station, located in Al-Zubair district, southwestern Basrah, Iraq.  This study aimed to investigate the effects of varying irrigation water salinity levels on the growth and yield of different faba bean (Vicia faba L.) Varieties. Two factors were examined: three faba bean Varieties Spanish (Lozde otono), Dutch (Histal), and a local Variety and three levels of irrigation water salinity: 1.5, 3.5, and 5.5 dS m⁻¹. The experiment followed a factorial experiment within a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The results showed that both the Varieties ( Lozde otono and Histal) and water salinity, as well as their interaction, had a significant impact on the studied traits. The Spanish Variety ( Lozde otono ) showed the highest values for plant height (67.76 cm), number of branches per plant (6.34 branch plant-1), pods per plant (6.67 pod plant-1), seeds per pod (5.30 seed ), 100 seed weight (157.05 g), and seed yield per plant (475.60 g).  the salinity levels, 3.5 dS m⁻¹ records highest plant height, number of branches, pod length, and yield per plant (69.28 cm, 5.92 branches plant-1, 8.29 cm). On the other hand, the lowest salinity level (1.5 dS m⁻¹) resulted in higher pod number, seeds per pod, and 100-seed weight (6.48 pods, 5.00 seeds, 152.44 g). Moreover, the interaction between the Spanish Variety and the two salinity levels (1.5 and 3.5 dS m⁻¹) significantly improved all measured traits, including plant height, number of branches, pods per plant, 100-seed weight, and seed yield per plant (74.59 cm, 6.68 branches plan-1, 7.80 pods, 164.28 g, and 510.10 g, respectively). Based on these results, Lozde otono can be considered a promising variety for cultivation in saline-prone areas of southern Iraq, offering both adaptability and productivity under moderately saline irrigation condition. https://www.tjas.org/article_608.html This study was conducted at the Ruminant Research Station of the Ministry of Agriculture using 50 Shami goats aged 2-3 years, aimed at studying the relationship between BCS and reproductive performance and haematological parameters in goats, as well as estimating genetic parameters. Significant differences were recorded in reproductive traits between the different BCS groups, Significant differences were recorded in reproductive traits between the groups of goats with different BCS. The study revealed highly significant differences (P≤0.01) in fertility rate, length of pregnancy, twins rate, barrenness ratio, and reproductive infections ratio. Significant differences (P≤0.05) were also found in both prolificacy and abortion rate. The best performance across these indicators was observed in goats with the highest BCS (3.5-4.5). Regarding blood traits, albumin, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol were significantly affected by the different BCS groups in the goats. Heritability estimates ranged from 0.06 to 0.28 for reproductive traits and BCS, and from 0.08 to 0.38 for blood traits. The genetic and phenotypic correlations were positive (P≤0.01) at 0.45 between BCS and prolificacy, and ranged from -0.02 to 0.52 between BCS and blood traits. The BLUP values for BCS ranged from -0.139 to 0.492. We conclude that selection based on BCS in breeding programs is feasible based on the average genetic estimates and positive genetic and phenotypic correlations with some studied traits. https://www.tjas.org/article_609.html It was hard to select and apply an appropriate criterion for assisting the selection of the ornamental plant (O.P.) species in certain cases - species that are not the priority for environmental impacts (air and soil quality, drought resistance), which were the primary focus of this study. Despite the increasing attention focused on the ecological benefits of ornamental plants, few studies have evaluated the synergistic effects of ornamental plants (O.Ps.) on air pollution (A.P.) tolerance, heavy metal (H.M.) accumulation, and drought tolerance. 9 ornamental plants grown in the campus of Anbar, Iraq, were sampled. Biochemical parameters like relative water contents (R.W.C.), ascorbic acid content (A.A.C.), leaf extract pH, and aggregate chlorophyll concentration (A.C.C.) were analyzed to calculate values for the Air Pollution Tolerance Index (A.P.T.I.). To evaluate the potential of these plants for phytoremediation of H.M.-contaminated soils, plants were cultivated in plastic pots with two types of soil. Plant species and soils were initially and finally analyzed to determine the 5 H.Ms. concentrations through the atomic absorption spectrometer. In addition, these plants were subjected to four water regimes to assess their drought response and tolerance, with nine plant samples per treatment. After one month, different morphological indices were noted for each species with different treatments of water supply. Of the species studied, 8.7 (Dieffenbachia sp.), 8.4 (Chlorophytum comosum), and 7.4 (Epipremnum aureum) presented the highest A.P.T.I. values, differing significantly among species (p < 0.001). Moreover, the contents of H.Ms. in both soils were reduced during the plant growth, especially for Cd and Zn. For all species, the irrigation treatments (from 100 to 25% water) had a strong effect on the morphological indices. It is suggested that O.Ps. cannot only reduce the environmental hazards through A.P. reduction and heavy metal-contaminated soil remediation, but also fight against water deficit stress. Furthermore, the use of O.Ps. can contribute to dealing with environmental problems that are related to sustainability, and it is promising, efficient, and ecological. https://www.tjas.org/article_610.html The current study aimed to examine the efficacy of nano-emulsion of seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum extract on growth of Silybum marianum callus, as well as its antioxidant activity and bioactive components under light and dark conditions. Firstly, a factorial experiment with ten replicates for each treatment to induce callus from seeds of S. marianum was achieved using completely randomized design (CRD) at p≤ 0.05 on different concentrations of plant growth regulators TDZ and 2,4-D to select the optimum combination of them which was 1.0 mg. L-1   TDZ + 3.0 mg. L-1 2,4-D. Then, a specific weight of callus was cultured on different concentrations of A.nodosum nano-extract (0.0, 20, 40 and 60 mg. L-1 ) and incubated under light and dark circumstances. The best callus fresh weight values were achieved in the treatment of 40 mg. L-1   of nano-extract (0.874 and 0.908 g under light and dark respectively). A significantly higher antioxidant activity was recorded in the treatment of 60 mg. L-1 (54.35 and 47.56 % under dark and light circumstances consecutively). Values of IC50 also recorded 113.46 and 102.28 µg.L -1  for the same treatment of nano-extract at dark and light treatments respectively. These results confirm the importance of the seaweed nano-extract as a biotic elicitor to enhance growth of callus of medicinal plants and increasing accumulation of bioactive components in it. https://www.tjas.org/article_611.html In winter 2024, a field study was conducted on the wild chicory plant (Cichorium intybus L.), a medicinal species having nutritional and pharmacological properties. A completely random design with four treatments was used to determine the effect of bio-stimulant application to leaves, traditional chemical fertilizers, and NPK nano-fertilizers on secondary metabolite production and antioxidant activity in the absence of information on how modern fertilization methods affect secondary metabolite production. All data were evaluated using one-way ANOVA and LSD at p < 0.05. The first treatment was water spraying (T0), the second utilized conventional NPK chemical fertilizer (T1), the third used NPK nano-fertilizer (T2), and the fourth used biostimulant (T3). Wild chicory beat water-only (T0) in all variables. The biostimulant (T3) treatment outperformed the wild plants in all chemical and physiological parameters. It had the most flavonoids (61.5 mg/g), phenols (197.8 mg/g), and alkaloids (1.89%). The test group had 192.1 mg/L glutathione, up from 137.7 mg/L in the control. T3 worked best at 500 mg/L and had the lowest IC50 value of 90.9 mg/L in the DPPH antioxidant experiment, outperforming the wild plant at 104.5 mg/L and vitamin C at 140.6 mg/L. Biostimulants and nanofertilizers enhance chicory's nutritional and medicinal value by improving secondary chemicals and antioxidant activity, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilizers. https://www.tjas.org/article_612.html This study aimed to investigate the effect of different plant spacings (10, 20, 40, 60, and 80 cm) on the growth, yield components, and seed quality of the faba bean (Vicia faba L.) cultivar ‘Aquadulce’ under greenhouse conditions. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replicates. The results showed that plant spacing influenced the chlorophyll content, plant height, number of branches, number of leaves, number of pods per plot, seed yield, and quality traits significantly under (P ≤ 0.05). The highest leaf chlorophyll (SPAD) content (38.13), plant height (41.75 cm), number of branches (4.78), pod number (545.5 pods plot-1), and total yield per plot (9.62 kg plot-1) were observed at 60 cm spacing. Spacing was 20cm which led to an increase in seed per individual pod (4.38 seeds per pod 1), but at the same time the productivity was decreased due to overcrowding. A very large spacing (80 cm) provided less competition and less yield per area. Also, plant spacing has a large impact on the crude protein content of seed and soil nitrogen dynamics. Furthermore, moderate spacing (20-60cm) resulted in improved seed protein up to 29.12%, and spacing 10-40cm resulted in higher levels of soil nitrogen after harvesting (107.33 mg kg-1). Thus, a 60 cm spacing was determined to be the best to achieve maximum yield and high seed quality in the greenhouse. https://www.tjas.org/article_613.html             The strawberry plant is a valuable crop because of the high levels of vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants it contains. In this study, foliar application of salicylic acid and putrescine was conducted on the Albino cultivar of strawberry to assess yield, fruit quality, and storability. The results revealed that a combination treatment of a foliar application of 150 mg L-1 of salicylic acid (SA) and 40mg L-1 of putrescine (P) significantly improved the leaf area (cm2), chlorophyll (mg g-1 FW), dry vegetable weight (g), fruit number fruit plant-1, fruit weight (g), total soluble solid %, total sugar (µg Glu g-1 FW), vitamin C (mg 100g-1 FW), anthocyanin (mg 100g-1 FW), and total phenol (µg GAE g-1). This treatment also showed the lowest values for weight loss (%), decay (%), non-marketable fruit (%), and titratable acidity (T.A %). Our findings confirmed the effectiveness of foliar application of salicylic acid, putrescine, and their combination in improving strawberry fruit quality and storability. https://www.tjas.org/article_614.html This study was conducted to evaluate the productive performance, egg quality traits, and immune response of different strains during three months of laying hens reared in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. A total of (720000) layers in three commercial strains- Lohmann White, Lohmann Brown, and Nick Chick- were compared with the correlations during their laying period. Productive performance was assessed through parameters such as egg production rate, hen day egg production, hen house egg production and feed conversion ratio. Results revealed significant differences among strains in Egg production and FCR, with Nick Chik and Lohmann white showing superior egg production compared to Lohmann brown, while the correlation between strain and month Lohmann white and Nick chick recorded higher significant (p≤0.05) in first and third months of HDEP, HHEP and FCR. Nick chick exhibited better egg weight, yolk diameter and shell thickness, however the correlation among the strains in the three months were significantly (P≤0.02) different. Immune response also varied, with strain-specific differences in antibody titers, Newcastle disease virus ND at 36 wks. recorded higher antibodies titers in Lohmann white and Nick chick, whereas Lohmann white had a higher ND titer in (44) wks. IBV titer recorded higher in Nick chick at (36) wks. While Lohman white and brown significantly (P≤0.04) recorded higher at (44) wks. These findings highlight the importance of strain selection in optimizing productivity, egg quality, and immunity of laying hens under the environmental and management conditions of the Kurdistan Region. https://www.tjas.org/article_619.html This study evaluated the effects of Moringa oleifera with chelated minerals and a soybean-based diet on growth performance, milk production, and immune status in goats. A total of 45 goats were divided into three groups and fed for 90 days. Growth performance improved significantly in supplemented groups, with the highest final body weight recorded in the Moringa + mineral group (42.78 kg) compared to the control (32.37 kg; p = 0.007). Similarly, body weight gain was highest in this group (22.58 kg), indicating better nutrient utilization (p = 0.005). In contrast, the soybean-based diet resulted in the highest muscle mass index and improved muscle development. Milk production was significantly enhanced, with the highest yield observed in the soybean group compared to the control. Milk fat increased from 3.7% in the control to 4.4% in the supplemented groups, while total solids reached a maximum of 13.1%, indicating improved milk quality. Immune response and health status were markedly improved in the treated groups. Disease incidence decreased from 23.1% in the control to 7.6% in the soybean group (p = 0.005). Antibody response was highest in supplemented goats. Stress and inflammation markers were reduced, with cortisol declining to 17.6 ng/mL and CRP to 4.1 mg/L compared to higher values in the control group (p ≤ 0.006). In conclusion, Moringa with chelated minerals mainly enhanced growth and immunity, whereas the soybean-based diet improved milk production and muscle development, highlighting their complementary benefits in goat production. https://www.tjas.org/article_620.html This study aimed to evaluated seven bread wheat genotypes and their 21 F2 hybrids derived from a half-diallel mating design to estimate mean performance, general and specific combining ability, heterosis, and some genetic parameters. The parental genotypes (SK 95, Side 14, Side 12, SK 94, Giemiza 9, Giemiza 7, and Al-Fayadh) and their hybrids were grown at the Agricultural Research Station, University of Kirkuk, using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among parents for most traits, except days to flowering (129.67–131.67 days). Side 14 genotype was surpassed in flag leaf area (70.79 cm2), whereas SK 94 showed higher mean for number of grains per spike (83.73) and grain yield per plant (31.54 g). Significant variation was also observed among F2 hybrids for all traits, with several hybrids surpassing the better parent; as the hybrid SK 95 x Side 12 produced the highest number of grains per spike (95.73), while Side 14 x Side 12 achieved the highest grain yield per plant (37.85 g). Heterosis results showed that Side 14 x Side 12 genotype surpassed by greatest heterotic effects for grain yield, number of spikes per plant, and grains per spike, whereas SK 95 x Side 14 consistently excelled in thousand-grain weight, spikes per plant, and grain yield. Genetic parameter estimates showed that genetic variance exceeded environmental variance, with high broad-sense heritability but low narrow-sense heritability and expected genetic advance, emphasizing the importance of selection in advanced generations to achieve stable genetic improvement. https://www.tjas.org/article_621.html Tomato is an important economical and nutritional plant. A factorial experiment involving three variables was executed using a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The effects of melatonin (0, 200 and 400 mg L⁻¹), boron (0, 5 and 10 mg L⁻¹), and sodium chloride (0, 2 and 4 g l-1), together with their interactions, were examined by using the Statistical Packages of Social Sciences to analyse the data. Salinity significantly adversely affected phenotypic characteristics and yield. The administration of melatonin at second level and boron at first level, together with their combination, yielded enhanced performance, exhibiting the highest values for most examined features when compared to the control. The triple interaction second melatonin, first boron and without salt yielded the highest results across all processing techniques. The results indicate that the simultaneous use of melatonin and boron can effectively alleviate the adverse impacts of salt stress in tomato plants. https://www.tjas.org/article_622.html ObjectiveThis research focused on determining the effect of quantity of feed, number of workers, size of farm and amount of medicines & vaccines on poultry production in Tikrit District. The study covered the entire operational broiler chicken farms in the district, which was approximately 120 farms. To ensure sample representativeness and capture the diversity in farms with respect to farm size and production levels, a random sample consisting of 50 farms (approximately 8% of the population) was selected. The study was performed from January to March 2025. The farms types in the study were small (500-1500 birds/cycle), medium (1500-3000 birds) and large (3000-5000 birds). In all categories of farm size (small, medium and large) included in the study sample, feed quantity had the most influence on broiler chicken production in Tikrit District. The results further showed that labour altered production significantly positively, highlighting the role of farm management in this context. The quantity of medicines and vaccines had significant positive effect, via this study it was concluded that feed quantity was the most decisive resource while farm size was least decisive, inferring there is no conclusive link with farm size in under developed area with limited resources. The study was conducted in Tikrit district, and suggested the possibility of providing infrastructure support for farms through interest-free loans to allow them to develop cool and ventilation systems, as well as promoting research and development through urging universities and scientific research centers in Iraq to set studies aimed at raising local chicken production with high tolerance to heat waves and lower feed cost. https://www.tjas.org/article_626.html This study introduces a novel framework for leveraging soil resources in Iraq's role in mitigating climate change, uniquely contributing to soil science and environmental sustainability. The study was carried out in the center of Iraq, where soil is a parent material in a Calcareous Alluvium type. The results based on the geometric arithmetic mean to assess the state of chemical degradation in the soil by integration of the results of laboratory analyzes of soil salinity, the percentage of sodium exchanged in the soil and organic matter with the prevailing and influential salts such as NaCl, MgCl2 and CaSO4 with spectral indicators derived from Sentinel-2 data such as Salinity Index (SI) and optimized soil-adjusted vegetation index (OSAVI) and enhanced vegetation index (EVI). The investigation into the feasibility of creating predictive models for chemical degradation indicators led to maps depicting these indicators. Subsequently, the geometric arithmetic mean of these maps was computed to determine the Soil Chemical Degradation Index (S.C.D.I). The findings of this study indicate that regular agricultural practices, coupled with access to safe water sources, contribute to the development of soils in a low-degradation category. However, the local conditions characterized by drought and inadequate management significantly contribute to converting extensive portions of the study area into chemically degraded soils.