Is the first agric. scientific and refereed journal established in Iraq. The first volume was published in 1966. IJAS is registered in the number 137 in 1988 of the Baghdad National Library. Years ago, it was published with one issue a year. For the time being, it is published bimonthly (6 issues for a volume till the end of 2025) and monthly from January 2026. The international number of IJAS are: PISSN 0075-0530 EISSN 2410-0862
University of Baghdad, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences
EFFECT OF HUMIC ACID ON THE ADSORPTION OF ZINC AND BORON IN CALCAREOUS SOIL AND GROWTH AND YIELD OF SUNFLOWER
The study aimed to investigate the effect of adding humic acid on the adsorption of zinc and boron and on sunflower growth and yield. Field experiment was conducted at one of the research fields of the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad, during the spring season of 2022, using sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), cultivar Shamoos planted in Clay loam soil. The experiment involved three factors using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates: humic acid (0 and 50 kg ha¹)and them symbols H0,H1, zinc sulfate (0, 15, and 30 kg ha-¹) them symbols Zn0,Zn1,Zn2, and boron (0, 6, and 12 kg ha-¹) and its symbols B0,B1,B2. Results showed that adding humic acid increased zinc and boron adsorption capacity in the soil. Moreover, humic acid, zinc and boron significantly improved plant height, leaf area, seed yield and water-use efficiency, with the highest water-use efficiency observed in the Zn2 treatment at 1.6642 kg m-³.
Copyright (c) 2026 Marwan Mahmood Ouda, Kadhim Makki Naser https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Effects of Different Parent Materials and Toposequence on status and distribution of Iron Oxides in Some Soils of Sulaymaniyah Governorate / Iraq
Three transects were chosen in Sulaymaniyah governorate / Iraq. The first was located within the Bazian Plain, while the second was in Sulaymaniyah plain, and the third was located within the plain of Shahrazur, in order to study the effect of parent material and toposequence on the status and distribution of Iron oxides in these soils. Results Shows that there is a differences in the amount and distribution of free iron oxides between the studied pedons, and even within one Pedon. These differences can be attributed to the effect of the difference in the parent materials and topography. Also, the soils developed on Basalt rocks and Red Mudstone were characterized by their high iron oxides and dark brown color, while those developed on Limestone rocks were characterized by their low iron oxides and yellowish brown color. The topographic location also, affected the transport of weathering products of parent rocks from elevated areas and deposed in the plain areas.
Copyright (c) 2026 Somaya Saad Alobaidy, Salman Khalaf Essa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF Lentinula edodes FROM THE IRAQI ‎ENVIRONMENT AND STUDY OF THE OPTIMAL CONDITIONS FOR ITS GROWTH
The recent research aims to collect fungal fruiting bodies from the Iraqi environment / Baghdad Governorate /Al-Salihiya and diagnose them morphologically and molecularly using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique.The fruiting bodies obtained from wild mushrooms were subjected to quantitative and qualitative analysis using HPLC to detect biologically active phenolic compounds in the fungus. The effect of some physical factors and conditions on the growth rate of fungal mycelium and its density was also studied in terms of (temperature, pH, type and concentration of materials used in preparing the media in addition to the effect of light and darkness factors). The results of BLAST analyses showed that there is a 99% match between the genes of the local isolate and the fungal strains belonging to the edodes species. This local isolate is designated by the symbol (EkRu-Bagadad-1) and the sequence (OM432157). Regarding the phenolic compounds profile, the results showed that the mushroom contains 15 phenolic compounds, which included 6 phenolic acids (Vanillic, Chlorogenic, 4-hydroxyl benzoic, Caffeic, Gallic, Cinnamic,) and 9 flavonoids (catechol, cinnamaldehyde eugnol, quercetin, nigellone, rutin, Pyrogallo, lignans, kaempferol). The total phenolic compounds in the mushroom amounted to 661.64 mg/L, and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid was the most concentrated phenolic acid in the mushroom. The results also showed that the highest growth rate of radial mycelium of the local strain of Shiitake mushroom was achieved in potato peel medium at concentrations of 20 gl-1 , which reached (0.473 cm/day). The local strain under study recorded the highest growth rate in all culture media used at pH (6) and temperature 23 C. The results also showed that the growth rate in the dark was higher than the growth rate in the light in all natural media used.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ekhlas Mohammed Farhan, Rukaibaa Ali Chechan‎ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
GREEN CAMPUS AND ITS IMPACT ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF STUDENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BAGHDAD
This study was aimed to investigate relationship between the utilization of the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences students for green spaces and their impact on their life quality in its cognitive and social dimensions. The research adopted the descriptive analytical approach to the reality of the green spaces most frequented by students through a field survey, in addition to adopting a questionnaire form distributed among a sample of college students from various departments. after collecting and transcribing the data, it was analyzed statistically and the significant differences between the means were compared with the Least Significant Difference (L.S.D.) test. Results showed that the most important thing provided by the green space environment at the university for students to improve their quality of life was their feeling of joy and vitality as a result of the influence of the colors of the plant canopy of various types and their flower colors, as well as the various forms water elements of the water canal surrounding the academic campus of the university campus and the fountains and lakes from which their water is derived, which enhanced the students' feel of beauty, relax, and reduced stress in them which consequently encouraged them to walk around and spend an enjoyable and valuable time in various academic and social activities, thus improving their academic performance and their sense of responsibility towards preserving this environment.
Copyright (c) 2026 SADA NASIF JASIM, NADIA KAZEM ANNON https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
EFFECT OF BIOFERTILIZERS, ORGANIC AND CHEMICAL FERTILIZATION ON VEGETATIVE GROWTH AND NPK CONCENTRATION IN LEAVES GRAPE CV HALAWANI
This experiment was carried out at one orchards grapes in Diyala, during two seasons 2022-2023 on grape, to study the effect of adding bacterial and fungal biofertilizers, vermicompost fertilizer, and foliar applied mineral fertilizer NPK on growth and production characteristics on cv. Helwani, the experiment was carried out a randomized complete block design within split plot with three factors and three replicates, using of 72 trees. The first factor included the addition biofertilizers which included: without inoculation (M0), inoculation with 400 g of fungi (M1).Inoculation with 200 g of bacterial (M2) and inoculation with both fungi and bacteria (M3). The second factor included the addition of organic fertilizer with three treatments, without addition (N0), adding 5 kg/ tree-1 (N1) and adding 7 kg/tree-1 (N2), and the third factor included foliar applied mineral fertilizer NPK as two treatment, without spraying (F0) and Spraying with 2.5 ml L-1 of fertilizer (F1), four foliar applications were applied at 30 day intervals when leaves reached full expansion, results showed significant impact by the triple interaction treatment M3N2F1 on vegetative growth traits such as leaf area, chlorophyll, dry weight, mature canes length and immature canes length, by producing 92.48, 109.67cm2, 279.26, 312.60 (mg.100g-1f w), 48.12, 53.23% and 208.60cm, 214.53 cm, 28.81, 25.88 cm for two seasons Sequentially, the highest percentage of N, P and K in leaves in the mentioned treatment for both seasons.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hussein Ali Habib AL-Mamoori, Ahmed Talib JOODY https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
A PROPOSAL TO DEVELOP THE USE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY IN AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION
The research was aimed to develop a proposed vision to develop the effectiveness of the use of information and communications technology in agricultural extension work/Iraq, To achieve the research goal, the questionnaire was prepared as a tool for collecting information and included 109 items distributed over 8 axes, which are (formulating a strategic plan, providing infrastructure, disseminating culture, Security and safety of information extension, developing workers’ capabilities, improving cooperation and coordination between the extension organization and relevant authorities, Improving the target population’s access to information and extension knowledge, monitoring and evaluation. The research included the governorates of Iraq, except for the Kurdistan region, which number 15 governorates. A 50% random sample was drawn, with 8 governorates: Baghdad, Kirkuk, Babylon, Basra, Anbar, Dhi Qar, Najaf, and Karbala), and the research community included those working in agricultural extension, numbering 773 respondents. A proportional, stratified random sample was drawn with a proportion of 33.1% of the research community and 256 respondents. The data was collected, tabulated, and analyzed using statistical methods and the SPSS program to extract The results: It was concluded that all the paragraphs and axes of the proposed vision, in terms of importance and the opinions of the respondents, obtained weighted means higher than the hypothesized mean of 3 degrees, The researcher recommends the need for officials and specialists in the Ministry of Agriculture, the Agricultural Extension and Training Department, and the Agriculture Directorates to adopt the proposed vision to develop the effectiveness of agricultural extension and its use of information and communications technology.
Copyright (c) 2026 H. M. H. Al-Jilawi, M. A. S. Al-Mashhadani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
HYDROGEOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF QUSHTAPA AND SHAMAMIK AREA IN ERBIL BASIN, USING PUMPING TEST DATA
This study investigates the hydrogeological parameters through detailed pumping test analysis in the Qushtapa and Shamamik areas within the Erbil Basin. This study aims to assess key aquifer parameters, including hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, and storage coefficient, which are substantial for sustainable groundwater management. Data from 10 groundwater pumping tests were analyzed using established analytical approaches, such as the Cooper-Jacob straight-line method, and the Theis recovery method using AQTESOLV and the Microsoft Excel program to derive hydrogeological parameters of the aquifer. The results show significant spatial variability in aquifer properties impacted by lithological variability and the rate of groundwater recharge. The average hydraulic conductivity ranges between 0.0245 mday-1 and 0.191 mday-1. The average Transmissivity value ranges from 8.62 m2day-1 to 47.725 m2day-1. The Storage Coefficient ranges between 0.071 and 0.323. Based on the Krasny (1993) classification for Transmissivity, the studied area is classified as an area with a Low-Intermediate class of Transmissivity. Pumping tests play a crucial role in ensuring long-term water security and informing sustainable development policies in the study area.
Copyright (c) 2026 Seber M. M. Ameen, Rebwar N. Dara https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
ESTIMATING THE EFFECT OF URBAN GROWTH ON CURVE NUMBER USING GIS IN THE ERBIL SUB-BASIN OF THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
The urban development of areas directly affects hydrological processes by changing patterns of surface runoff. Cities growing experience increased flood risks as natural water absorption is reduced by changing permeable ground with structures non-absorbent. The research analyzes how expansion of urban between 2017 and 2023 influenced the Curve Number (CN) in the Erbil Sub-Basin, 1318 km2 using (GIS). This study stands differ from earlier research by focusing solely on how LULC changes affect CN values without considering precipitation data. The study achieves a more precise understanding of urbanization impacts on hydrological responses through its precipitation-independent methodology. This research methodology utilizes high-resolution satellite imagery along with soil classification maps and digital elevation models (DEMs) to determine transformations in land use and land cover (LULC). This study uses the Soil Conservation Service Curve Number (SCS-CN) method to analyze runoff changes caused by urban development. CN values steadily grew from 80.53 in 2017 to 81.50 in 2023 as agricultural and barren lands transformed into urbanized spaces. The growing trend points to an increased risk of urban flooding while decreasing groundwater recharge which makes it essential to develop sustainable water management practices.
Copyright (c) 2026 Arkan H. Ibrahim, Pshtiwan Othman Zaid, Abdulla Abdulwahid Abo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
A FUZZY-AHP AND GEOSPTIAL ANALYASIS MODEL FOR LAND SUITABILITY ASSESSMENT OF DATE PALM (Phoenix dactylifera) CULTIVATION IN NORTHREN BASARAH, IRAQ.
This study was executed in the northern part of Basrah Governorate in southern Iraq to evaluate the suitability of lands for date palm cultivation by integrating fuzzy logic, remote sensing, and geographic information systems. Nine criteria were studied, including chemical properties (EC, pH, O.C, CaCO₃, and CEC) and physical properties encompassing soil particle size distribution, soil depth, and soil bulk density, in addition to the supervised classification map. The importance and influence of all criterion have been determined through a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) method. Fuzzy logic was then employed to develop a specific mathematical model for evaluating land suitability for date palm cultivation and to produce a land suitability map for study area. 73.96% of the studied lands are unsuitable (N1), while moderately suitable (S2) lands constituted 15.45%, and marginally suitable (S3) lands constituted 10.59%. Lands that classified as S1 were missed due to urban expansion, high soil salinity, high carbonate minerals, and unsuitable soil depth for date palm cultivation. moreover, the developed mathematical equation can be applied to assess land suitability for date palm cultivation in areas with similar conditions to the study area.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mustafa Saleh Ali Al-Mayyahi , Salah Mahdi Sultan Al-Attab https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
SEQUENCE DIVERSITY AND MOLECULAR EVOLUTION ANALYSIS OF INTERNATIONAL TOMATO BASED ON THE ENTIRE ITS REGION
This study aimed to assess the genetic diversity and molecular evolution of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) populations from various countries, which hold significant potential for future breeding strategies and germplasm conservation. To achieve this, a total of 15 sequences deposited in GenBank were analyzed using the complete internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA). The spacer sequence lengths ranged from 156 base pairs (bp) in the Swedish tomato to 713 bp in the Palestinian tomato. A notable variation in GC content was observed, with the Thai tomato exhibiting the highest value (67.48%) and the South Korean tomato the lowest (49.56%). Phylogenetic trees were constructed using both the distance-based Neighbor-Joining (NJ) and Maximum Parsimony (MP) methods. Sequence analysis revealed 38 monomorphic (invariable) sites and 15 polymorphic sites, of which 14 were singleton variable sites and one was parsimony-informative. Alignment of the 15 sequences enabled the identification of five haplotypes. The estimated transition/transversion bias (R) was 17.339, indicating a greater frequency of transitions over transversions in this region. Neutrality tests, including Tajima’s D and Fu and Li’s statistics, produced statistically significant results. The highest levels of genetic diversity were observed in South Korean, Iraqi, and Indian tomato samples.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ayyad W. Al-Shahwany, Mohammed M. Hawash, Thaer Hamid A. Hajeej https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
METAL COMPLEXES OF CURCUMIN AND DMB LIGAND , GEOMETRICAL AND BIOLOGICAL
This study was aimed to investigate synthesis and characterization of two ligands type (azo-linked Schiff-base) with its complexes. Precursor (W) obtained by reaction of diazonium salt of 1-Naphthyl amine with O-tolidin in water as a solvent via 2:1 mole ratio. Azo-linked Schiff-base ligands synthesized via the reaction of 3, 3'- dimethyl-5,5'-bis((E)-pyridin-3-yldiazenyl)-[1,1'-biphenyl]-4,4'-diamine with curcumun or dibenziyl methan for obtaining 4, 4', 4'', 4'''- ((1E, 1'E, 6E, 6'E) - ( (3, 3'- dimethyl-5, 5'-bis((E)-pyridin-3-yldiazenyl)-[1,1'-biphenyl]-4,4'-diyl) bis (azaneylylidene)) bis(5-hydroxyhepta-1,6-diene-1,7-diyl-3-ylidene))tetrakis(2-methoxyphenol) (H2L1) or 3,3'-((3,3'-dimethyl-5,5'-bis((E)-naphthalen-1-yldiazenyl)-[1,1'-biphenyl]-4,4'-diyl)bis(azaneylylidene))bis(1,3-diphenylpropan-1-ol) (H2L2). Complexes synthesis achieved via reaction of the metal ion salts CoII, MnII, CuII, NiII and CdII with azo-linked Schiff-base ligands within (2-1) mole ratio. Characterization of prepared ligands and complexes through spectroscopic and analytical techniques included; conductance, microanalysis, thermal analysis and magnetic susceptibility (for complexes) measurements along with NMR, UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopies
Copyright (c) 2026 Fatima R. A, Hasann A. H https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
EVALUATION THE EFFECT OF SYNTHESIZED ZINC OXIDE NANOPARTICLES FROM MYRTUS COMMUNIS L. LEAVES EXTRACT ON ESCHERICHIA COLI
This study was aimed to estimate the effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized by Myrtus communis L. on the expression of the adhesion genes fimH and fimA in isolates of uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). The biosynthesized-ZnO NPs was characterized through several techniques including UV–vis spectral analysis, atomic force microscopy (AFM), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). For determination of MIC and sub-MIC of ZnO NPs, only 7 multi-drug resistant (MDR) and strong-biofilm producer E. coli isolates (harbored both fimH and fimA) were selected based on our previous work. Microtiter plate method was utilized and the results indicated that only three isolates (C1, C2 and C23) with MIC and sub-MIC (125 and 62.5 µg/ml), respectively, were selected for further experiments. Quantitative Real Time PCR was utilized for determining the gene expression of fimH and fimA in three isolates (C1, C2 and C23), with and without treatment with ZnO NPs. According to the results, the relative expressions (2-ΔΔCt) of fimA gene in C1, C2 and C23 isolates of E. coli were downregulated in 0.51-fold after treated with 125 µg/ml of ZnO NPs, while the relative expressions (2-ΔΔCt) of fimH gene in C1, C2 and C3 isolates of E. coli were upregulated in 4.42-fold after treated with 125 µg/ml of ZnO NPs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Safa A. A. , Ramina M. K https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
EVALUATING GERMAN CHAMOMILE'S ACTIVITY AGAINST ENTEROCOCCUS FAECALIS ISOLATED FROM ROOT CANALS
This study was aimed to investigate German chamomile extract's active ingredients and their antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) which was previously isolated from root canals. Chamomile hydroalcoholic extract was obtained by maceration process. Phytochemical tests and thin layer chromatography (TLC) used to detect active ingredients in the extract. Agar well diffusion method was used to compare antimicrobial effect of 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and 4 extract's concentrations (100mg/mL-400mg/mL) against E. faecalis. Chamomile's anti-biofilm effect against E. faecalis biofilm was tested by microtiter plate assay with ELISA reader. Phytochemistry showed that, tannins, glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, and polyphenolic chemicals were abundant. TLC revealed presence of phenolic compounds including; caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and others, and flavonoids such as; apigenin, catechin, and others. Agar well diffusion showed higher inhibition zone diameter for 200mg/mL, 300mg/mL, and 400mg/mL chamomile in comparison to 3% NaOCl. The extract showed strong E. faecalis biofilm inhibition by all its concentrations, while moderate inhibition exerted by NaOCl. It can be concluded that German chamomile extract appears rich antimicrobial and effective inhibitor against E. faecalis biofilm.
Copyright (c) 2026 A. S. Yaseen, A. F. Mahdee , S. A. Mohmmed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Study of some plant species as phytoremediation of heavy metals emission from oil refinery
This study was carried out to investigate the phytoremediation potential of six different plant species (Melia azedaracch ,Punica granatum,Cupressus arizonica, Platanus orientalis and Platanus orientalis) in the city of Erbil mitigating heavy metal emissions of an oil refinery. The research assesses photosynthetic pigments, heavy metal concentrations (Fe, Cu, Mn, Ni, Zn, As, Pb, Co, Hg and Se) from an oil, and biochemical attributes in leaves, highlighting their responsiveness to contamination. Variations in metal levels between control and polluted sites underscore the refinery's impact, while reduced photosynthetic pigments indicate potential ramifications for plant vigor. The intricate interplay between pollution levels and plant physiology is explored, offering crucial insights for effective environmental management strategies. Metals like Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury, commonly found in food, pose health risks due to human activities. The research underscores the significance of plants as indicators and reducers of pollutants, emphasizing the potential of phytoremediation in addressing environmental challenges. The findings contribute valuable information for developing sustainable approaches to combat pollution, particularly in industrial settings
Copyright (c) 2026 Zhian Rashid Salih, Maqsuda Qadir Muhammad , Wareen Farzand Kamal , Runj Mouhamednajat Mazher https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
EFFECT OF GLYCINE BETAINE, SALICYLIC ACID, AND POTASSIUM ON DIFFERENT TRAITS OF SOYBEAN CROP UNDER WATER STRESS
This study was aimed to investigate the role of glycine betaine, salicylic acid, and potassium in supporting soybean plants grown under water stress. A field experiment was conducted at Wasit Governorate during the autumn seasons of 2022 and 2023. randomized complete block design (RCBD) with split plot using arrangement and three replications, conditions treatments of water depletion levels of 30%, 45%, and 60%. Water treatments were allocated to the main plots, While the treatments, which included A0 (control treatment) of dry seeds and distilled water spray, A1 (50 mmol L-1 Glycine betaine seed soaking), A2 (300 mg L-1 salicylic acid spray), A3 (50 m mol L-1 Glycine betaine seed soaking and 300 mg L-1 salicylic acid spray), A4 (7.2 g L-1 potassium spray), A5 (50 mmol L-1 Glycine betaine seed soaking and 7.2 g L-1 potassium spray), and A6 (combination of the above treatments), were assigned to the subplots. The results indicated non significant differences among irrigation treatments at 30% and 45% water depletion in plant height, leaf area, chlorophyll content in the second season, plant dry weight, membrane stability, potassium content and seed yield in both seasons. However, plants subjected to irrigation at 60% water depletion showed higher average proline content (2.7 and 2.8) µmol g-1.The interaction between plant support treatments and irrigation was statistically significant in plant height, leaf area, chlorophyll content, and plant dry weight.
Copyright (c) 2026 Moayad K. Kassar, Shatha A. H. Ahmed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
ROLE OF COLCHICIN AND MANNITOL IN INDUCING GENETIC VARIATIONS AND DROUGHT TOLERANCE OF BARLEY VARIETIES IN VITRO
This study was aimed to inducing genetic variations for drought tolerance in vitro for callus three varieties Ebaa265, Ebaa99 and Bouhoth244 of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) using plant tissue culture technique. An experiment was conducted in plant tissue culture laboratory at the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad during the years 2022-2023 .The experiment included the use of colchicin at concentrations of (0,2.5,5 and 7.5) mg.L-1 and for a soaking periods of (0,4,8 and 12) hours, and mannitol at concentrations of (0,2,4 and 6) g.L-1 using MS media. The results showed that there were significant differences in the average dry weight of callus before and after colchicin treatment at a concentration of 7.5 mg.L-1 for a soaking period of 12 hours and with mannitol 6 g.L-1 and the comparison treatment. The dry weight of callus before colchicin treatment reached 40.30 mg in the variety Ebaa265, was significant different of the average dry weight of callus after colchicin treatment reached 92.65 mg within the variety Bouhoth244.The PCR-RAPD with five primers (OP-A06,OP-A07,OP-A08,OP-B01 and OP-B02) examination revealed differences in the number of resulting bands and their molecular weights in colchicin treatments and the comparison treatment, in light of the results. It could be concluded that colchicin has the ability to cause genetic variations and increase the tolerance of vegetative growth to drought stress resulting from treatment with the compound mannitol in Barley.
Copyright (c) 2026 Saja Jawad Shanishil Baday , Ibrahim Abdullah Hamza https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
GENETIC DIVERSITY INDICATORS IN SPP1 GENE OF LOCAL AWASSI EWES IN MIDDLE OF IRAQ
This study was conducted to identify the genetic diversity indicators of the secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) gene in flock of local ewe's sheep in middle of Iraq. The sample was made up of 48 ewes and the duration of the study was six months. Genetic polymorphisms were identified and four SNPs (4) variants were obtained. The average allelic abundance (Na) was 2.00, the average number of alleles affected (Ne) was 1.0539, Shannon Guide (I) 0.1163. The average allelic abundance was equal in all the variations studied (2.00) and the number of alleles affected was higher in SNP2 and SNP3, both at (1.0425) compared to SNP1 (1.0211) and SNP4 (1.1096). Obs-Hom and (0.9479) are very close to Exp- Hom and (0.9492). The individual's evidence of persistence within the Fis clan of the G, A, C and T allels of local sheep were -0.0367. The Fit's aggregate stability manual obtained according to SPP1 gene analysis is also -0.0367. Therefore, we can conclude that there is no genetic drift that causes genetic differentiation of the local sheep's sample and this may be due to the large number of rams used by matting, thereby creating an appropriate variation in flock.
Copyright (c) 2026 H.A. Al-Huboby , N.N. Al-Anbari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
EFFECT OF POLYCULTURE ON THE GROWTH AND PRODUCTION OF FISH AND RICE FARMED TOGETHER
This study was aimed to investigate the effect of farming of two fish species on growth traits of cultured fish and some yield components of rice crop. The field was divided into four fields planted with rice seedhing, the area of each field was 100 m², after which two species of fish were released: the common (Cyprinus carpio) and the grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) in rice fields, four experimental treatments were used that were cultured with rice and fish, the first treatment included the culture of common carp alone, while the second treatment, the grass carp was cultured alone, the third treatment, The common carp and grass carp were cultured together by 50 fish each, and in the fourth treatment, the common and grass carp were cultured by 75 and 25 fish, respectively. The total weight gain and the relative, specific, and daily growth rate of the experimental fish were calculated, as well as some rice production traits. Results of the statistical analysis showed significant differences (p≤0.01) for the total weight gain and the daily, relative and specific growth rate for all treatments,T3 show asighificant differences (p≤0.01) compared to therest treatments, and the T4 showed asighificant dffercuce (p≤0.01) in compansion with T1. Results of the statistical analysis of the characteristics of the rice yield showed: as the T2 was significantly (p≤0.01) superior to osherd treatments, followed by the T4, which outperformed the T1 and T3 treatments. In the same traits, the T3 treatment outperformed the T1.
Copyright (c) 2026 M. F. Ghazi , M.S.Al-Khshali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
MOLECULAR DETECTION OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS ISOLATED FROM RAW MILK SAMPLES WITH COW MASTITIS
Staphylococcus aureus is among the bacterial pathogens responsible for the global occurrence of cow mastitis. This study used the Vitek II system, morphological, cultural, biochemical, and identification of SpA and rpoA genes by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to isolate and identify pathogenic bacteria S. aureus from raw milk samples. The study included collecting fifty milk samples from mastitis-affected cows from various sites within the Baghdad governorate included:(Abu Ghraib,Mahmudiyah and Radwaniyah) .The samples were streaked on a plate of Mannitol Salt Agar (MSA) to detect the presence of S. aureus, and the plates were then incubated at 37°C for a whole day. 12 out of 50 samples tested positive for S. aureus, according to the data. The results showed the isolates had the highest resistance rate (100%) to Benzylpenicillin, Amoxicillin , Ampicillin/SulbactamPiperacillin/Tazobactam , Cloxacillin ,Oxacillin, Azithromycin ,Clarithromycin, Erythromycin , and Clindamycin, and showed the prevalence of antimicrobial sensitivity to Ciprofloxacin , Moxifloxacin , Norfloxacin, Linezolid Teicoplanin, Vancomycin, Rifampicin, Trimethoprim/ Sulfamethoxazole. The SpA sequence analysis demonstrated 99% and 100% identity of the samples, confirming the results of the biochemical and culture characterisation. Additionally, the SpA and rpoA genes were present in all isolates.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sabrin. I. Mohsin , Aida .B. Allawe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
EFFECT OF ORGANIC MEDIA AND BIOLOGICAL FERTILIZATION ON THE VEGETATIVE AND FLORAL GROWTH AND SOME QUALITATIVE TRAITS OF TWO ROSE HYBRIDS.
The study was conducted to study the impact of rice straw and sugarcane bagasse residues, as well as biofertilization (Azospirillum and Trichoderma), on the growth, flowering, and quality of two hybrids of roses. The experiment included three main factors: the varieties (Pink-Martini and Brighton), five organic media factors including rice straw at two levels (2 and 4 kg/m2, sugarcane bagasse residues at two levels (2 and 4 kg/m2), in addition to a control treatment without additives. The third factor represented biofertilization by adding Azospirillum and Trichoderma. The results indicated that the applied treatments led to better results in most of the studied characteristics. Overall, the results showed that using rice straw or sugarcane bagasse residues as a source of organic fertilizers, along with biofertilization, improved the growth, flowering, and quality of roses. The results also showed that the triple interaction between the treatments exhibited superiority, with treatment A2B1C1 showing the highest percentage of phosphorus (0.38%), flower count (11.25 flowers per plant), and treatment A2B1C2 in the floral stem diameter and its longevity on the plant (3.57 cm2 and 28.33 days). The study recommends the use of the Brighton hybrid with 4 kg of rice straw and biofertilizer (Azospirillum) to achieve optimal overall growth, flowering, and quality. This combination yielded the best results in the study.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fadel J. Kazem, Nawal M. Alwan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
INFLUENCE OF BENZYL ADENINE, ADDITION OF ORGANIC FERTILIZERS AND THINNING ON SOME PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF DATE PALM CV. MEJHOUL
This study was aimed to determine effect of foliar application of growth regulator benzyl adenine, adding organic fertilizers and thinning on some physical and chemical properties of date palm fruits Cv. Mejhoul, The experiment was carried out according to a randomized complete block design with three replicates and three factors: foliar application of benzyl adenine at concentrations (0, 100, 150 mg L-1) and symbolized B0, B1, B2, and adding organic fertilizer at levels (0, 1 kg humic acid + 150 g seaweed extract for every tree, 2 kg humic acid + 300 g seaweed extract for every tree) symbols F0, F1, F2 and thinning at two levels (without thinning, removing 10 cm from tips of flower spikes and removing central area of branching from peduncle) symbols T0, T1 and included 54 experimental units, results showed superior treatment B2 increasing average fruit weight, fruit flesh weight, seed weight, and percentage of total, reducing, and non-reducing sugars, 30.82 g, 28.95 g, 1.80 g, 63%, 58.38%, and 4.62%, respectively. Treatment F2 gave highest average fruit weight, flesh weight, seed weight, total and reduced sugars, 29.16 g, 27.42 g, 1.76 g, 59.75%, 55.30%, respectively. Treatment T1 was significantly superior in increasing fruit weight, fruit flesh weight, seed weight, and percentage of total, reduced and non-reduced sugars, with values 31.80 g, 30.06 g, 1.75 g, 63.31%, 58.81%, 4.49%. T1 B2 F2 interaction had the highest average fruit weight, fruit flesh weight, seed weight, and percentage of total and reducing sugars. with values of 36.68 g, 34.46 g, 2.21 g, 72.55%, and 67.97%, respectively.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hisham A. Mansour , AL-Dahan, M. R. Abood https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
ASSESSMENT OF SOIL EROSION RISK USING RUSLE IN SELECTED WATERSHEDS OF SULAIMANI PROVINCE, IRAQ
This study was aimed to assess the risk of soil erosion in 32 watersheds of Sulaimani province, Kurdistan/Iraq, based on Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation, GIS and RS data. The annual precipitation data were used to generate the rainfall-runoff erosivity factor using the previously developed equation for the region. The soil erodibility factor was estimated using soil particle size distribution data. The topographic factor was generated using a digital elevation model from a sentinel 2. The cover-management factor was determined by using Google Earth Engine with Landsat7 and Landsat8. While the soil erodibility and vegetation factors did not show high spatial variability across the province, rainfall erosivity showed an increasing trend from south west to north east of the region, ranged from 73 to 632 MJ mm ha-1 h-1. The results showed that the average annual soil loss for the different watersheds ranged from 2.12 to 62.05 t ha-1 y-1. The results also indicated that the main factors governing soil erosion in Sulaimani province are rainfall intensity, rugged topography, steep slopes, and sparse vegetation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Star Sadiq Abdullah, Hussein Asadi, Khalid Tayeb Mohammed Barzinji; Tariq Hama Karim; Ali Akbar Nazari Samani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
EUPHORBIA MACULATAL. NEW RECORD SPECIES FOR IRAQI FLORA FROM THE FAMILY EUPHORBIACEAE IN IRAQ
During the field trips in the gardens of the University of Baghdad at Al-Jadriya region and the gardens of the University of Al-Mustansiriya during the two growing seasons 2020-2021, a new species belonging to the family Euphorbiceae , genus Euphorbia was observed and recognized E.maculata L. which did not recorded for the Iraqi flora, and it was collected from different regions and studied morphologically, the characteristics of the procumbent stems, and leaves which were distinguished for their green color , elongated shape, and the presence of red spots in the middle of the leaf. The study also dealt with the characteristics of the epidermis and the stomatal complexes, as the sunken stomata and being recessed and of diacytic, anomocytic and anisocytic types, as well as the epidermis were distinguished by the presence of glandular and non-glandular hairs. The research also dealt with the characteristics of the flower, fruit and seed, as well as the characteristics of the anthers and pollen grains. A number of samples for the species in the university herbarium in the College of Science, University of Baghdad, and the number was given (50472) and (50473)
Copyright (c) 2026 Sukeyna Abaas Aliwy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
AN ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AGRICULTURAL TRADE OPENNESS AND AGRICULTURAL GROWTH IN IRAQ FOR THE PERIOD (1990-2021).
The research was conducted to evaluate the link between agricultural trade openness and Iraqi agricultural development through the use of annual time series data from (1990–2021). This research that focuses on the Iraqi case study, as a developing country that opens up to the Global industry, and aims to identify the position of openness in facilitating agricultural development. The Research question centers around the effects of agricultural trade openness to agricultural growth or vice versa. The analysis is based on the examination of the secondary data utilizing statistics such as ARDL (Auto Regressive Distributed Lag) and co-integration analysis. The relevance of the findings results in understanding the complex causal relationship between agricultural trade openness and agricultural growth. The research conclusions indicate that the high agricultural trade openness index means that the Iraqi economy is highly dependent on the outside world, which weakens the economic and political ability to confront fluctuations in economic activity. The impact of the agricultural trade openness policy in Iraq depends on the performance of the economy in general and the quality of imported goods in particular. The co-integration test of the ARDL model shows the existence of a long-term balanced relationship between the dependent variable. The research recommends the need to enhancement the competitiveness of major agricultural products and adopts encouraging policies to enhance export. It also highlights the importance of developing effective agricultural policies that provide the necessary support to farmers, to adapt to the changes resulting from trade openness.
Copyright (c) 2026 Noor M. H. Mhana , Basim H. H. Al-Badri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE BEHAVIOR OF PALM TREE FARMERS TO ADOPT PHEROMONE TRAPS TO CONTROL LESSER DATE MOTH IN IRAQ
This research was aimed to identify the social and economic factors influencing the adoption of integrated pest control using pheromone traps to control the pests on palm trees in four governorates (Babylon, Karbala, Baghdad, and Wasit). The research is conducted with a sample of 340 farmers using of questionnaire. The research conducts the PROBIT model, to evaluate the suitability of the model we used McFadden R2 and Likelihood Ratio-LR test, Hosmer & Lemeshow goodness of fit test, Wald test to judge the significant correlation. The results showed a significant correlation at 1%, among (age, damage to animals and bees, orchard location, land type and control costs) and at 5% between (education level, return). The study also showed that the degree of risk ranged between 3.4 - 3.5 degrees for chemical pesticides that are used by farmers in the study area for the five environmental categories. The study recommended to implementing the integrated pest control program in the palm sector, the need to increase financial and guidance support for the program because of its positive impact on the social economic aspect of farmers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammed J. Ali, Zuhal R. Kadhim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
EFFECT OF PARTIAL REPLACEMENT OF WHEAT AND RICE FLOUR BY MODIFIED STARCH ON CAKE AND BISCUIT QUALITATIVE AND SENSORY PROPERTIES
This study was aimed to investigate the effect of substituting different proportions (10%, 20%, 30%) of wheat flour and Amber rice with enzymatically modified starch on qualitative and sensory characteristics of biscuits and cupcakes. The results showed a decrease in the thickness of wheat biscuits with an increase in the substitution percentage . The 30% substitution showed a significant difference compared to the others . Conversely, there was an increase in the diameter of biscuit samples, ranging from (42.00-48.30 cm), as well as the spread factor. The 30% substitution treatment showed a significant difference compared to the others. As for rice biscuits, the diameter and the spread factor values increased with increasing substitution rates. Sensory evaluation for rice and wheat biscuits indicated that substitution rates of (0, 10 and 20)% achieved similarity in aroma , taste, symmetry of form, and crumb color. However, substitution rates of 30% for both products showed a darker color, more hardness, and the development of an acidic flavor . As for the cupcakes, the specific volume decreased with increasing substitution rates. The highest values for wheat cakes were recorded at substitution rates of 10% and 20%,being 3.19 and 3.00 cm3 /g respectively. The lowest values were recorded for WC3 and RC3 (2.60 ,1.61cm3 /g). The sensory evaluation for the cupcakes samples showed no significant differences as compared to the control sample in term of moisture, texture smoothness, crumb color, and crust color. Substitution at 10% and 20% showed similarity in terms of symmetry of form, crumb homogeneity, aroma ,taste and moisture. However, the 30% substitution rate resulted in a noticeable decline in product acceptance due to a decrease in volume , texture smoothness, reduced crumb homogeneity, as well as a darker color and an undesirable flavor
Copyright (c) 2026 Zina HusseinAbdel Mahdi, Khalida Abdulrahman Shakir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF THE GREEN ECONOMY ON SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN IRAQ FOR THE PERIOD (2003-2022)
The research aims to study the impact of the green economy on achieving sustainable agricultural development in Iraq for the period (2003-2022). The research used quantitative methods in analyzing GDP, green GDP, investment allocations for the agricultural sector, environmental allocations, cultivated areas and water imports of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers to distinguish the impact of these variables on agricultural GDP. The parameters were estimated using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag-ARDL framework. The results found that each of the green GDP, investment allocations, and environmental allocations came positive and consistent with the logic of the economic theory, while cultivated areas came positive but not significant. Rivers water flow had a negative signal due to the significant decline during the study period. The research found that the green GDP has the largest effect in agricultural GDP, and its impact is clear in advancing the development process. The research recommended the need to follow scientific methods and modern methods to reduce toxic and greenhouse gas emissions, which greatly affect pollution and agricultural production
Copyright (c) 2026 Lina Kadhim Sfayyih, Ali. S. Shukr https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
MORPHOLOGICAL AND MOLECULAR DESCRIPTION OF NEW RECORD OF METARHABDITIS RAINAI (NEMATODA: RHABDITIDAE) FROM BAGHDAD
Aim of this study was to identify and characterize the entomopathogenic nematode Metarhabditis rainai, which was isolated from soil samples carried out from Alrashdya at (33˚25ˈ13.4̎ N 44˚21ˈ45.3̎ E) Baghdad- Iraq and was illustrated by both morphological and molecular aspects. All specimens of M. rainai were cultured, identified and described using some morphometric criteria based on standard available key. Selected specimens (Zah, IQ2 OR960470 isolate) of this species were characterized by the body length of male was ranged from (377.49 – 563.89 μm), the body length of female was (857.44 – 1111.7 μm) and the body length of juvenile was (419.28 – 757 μm). Using partial 18S rRNA gene sequences, molecular characterization was performed on selected specimens of this species. The 18S-rRNA sequence of the Zah, IQ2 OR960470 isolate showed a sequence homology ranging from (88.50% to 100%) with the 18S rRNA sequence of M. rainai found in the NCBI database. The phylogenetic tree has been created to separate M. rainai species from closely related genera and species. Metarhabditis rainai Zah, IQ2 OR960470 isolate marks the first record of M. rainai in Iraq.
Copyright (c) 2026 Zahraa Y. Kadhim, Harith S. Al-Warid , Jawad B. Al-Zaidawi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
EVALUATION ANTIBACTERIAL AND ANTIBIOFILM ACTIVITY OF Cymbopogon citrates L. ON FIMA AND PAPC GENES AGAINST Escherichia coli
This study was aimed to evaluated the antibacterial activity on Cymbopogon citrates ( C. citrates ) leaves extract and assessment of its effect on fimA and papC genes in Escherichia coli ( E.coli )isolates. Rotery apparatus were used to prepare aqueous and methanolic extract; total phenolic content and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were conducted to determine the active compounds in the extract. The results showed that the methanolic and aqueous extracts contain seven flavonoids derivatives ( Catechine , Chlorogenic acid , Ferulic acid , Gallic acid , P-Coumaric acid , Qurcetine and Kaempferol ) in varies ration were identified on the basis of matching retention time with the standards. The total phenolic contents were 19.56 and 47.45 mg/g in 50 mg/ml, in aqueous and methanolic extracts respectively. The antibacterial activity of C. citrates leaves extracts showed that the aqueous extract was less effective than methanolic extract in concentration 16 mg/ml. Moreover, the result of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) showed that the methanolic extract on E.coli isolates was 16 mg/ml, while the MIC values of aqueous extract were 32 mg/ml. C. citrates methanolic leaves extract had antibiofilm activity, which inhibits 90% and 100% of the biofilm formation of E. coli in concentrations 16 and 32 mg/ml respectively. The result of the gene expression revealed that there is a decrease in the expression of the fimA and papC genes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maha A. Khalaf, A. H. I. AL-Azawi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
GENETIC VARIABILITY AND MOLECULAR EVOLUTION OF THE IRAQI DATE PALM CULTIVARS USING INTERNAL TRANSCRIBED SPACER 1 (ITS1) REGION OF NUCLEAR RIBOSOMAL DNA
This study was aimed to investigate genetic diversity of nine Iraqi date palm cultivars (Phoenix dactylifera L.), two of them were propagated by tissue culture tiqneque. The variation in GC content in the ITS1 region was recorded at (52–53%) with an average of (52.7). The data suggests that transitions have a lower frequency compared to transversions in this region, where the overall bias R for transition/transversion has been estimated at (0.661). The aligned sequences associated with internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) showed intraspecific variation, and the matched sequences enabled the identification of all cultivars studied as haplotypes. Phylogenetic trees constructed using distance-based ''neighbour-joining'' (NJ) and ''maximum parsimony'' (MP) techniques provided strong evidence for the independent structure of the considered accessions. Tests of molecular evolution reveal that the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) evolved in accordance with a precise neutrality paradigm. In a population predicted to be in equilibrium after the 6th generation, suggesting a recent demographic expansion in the Iraqi date palm population.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammed M. Hawash , Laith M.J. Al-Shamma https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/