Department of Nuclear Agriculture and Radiation Processing
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Item Radiation Preservation of Black Velvet Tamarind (Dialium guineense Wild.)(University of Ghana, 2010-12) Odamtten, G.T.The economic distribution and marketing of the lesser known fruit Dialium guineense Wild in Ghana has been studied using a structured questionnaire and the rapid appraisal system. The seasonality of the fruit (from January to May) makes it abundant in the peak season and rare or not all for the best part of the year. Some fruits also go to waste in the field owing to underexploitation. This thesis provides information on the resident fungi, mycological quality, sorption isotherm, and the e ffect 0 f gamma irrad iation and packaging on the phys ico-chem ical properties of the fruit and the sensory evaluation of the pulp by a taste panel with the view to showing the economical and nutritional potential of the fruit. The resident fungi and mycological quality were assessed by the conventional decimal serial dilution technique and plating on three media (PDA, DG 18 and OGYE). Sorption isotherms at 29±J -c were determined under simulated Environmental Relative Humidity (20, 55, 65, 75, 85, 95%) provided by glycerol: water mixtures; physico-chemical properties were assessed by the method of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Descriptive and preference sensory eval uation were adrn inistered using prescribed international methods on a hedonic scale. The tamarind markets are in the southern sector of the country, namely Greater Accra, Eastern, Central, Ashanti and Volta Regions with the hub at Ho, Abor and Akatsi in the Volta Region. The local names of the fruit varied from one region to another. The fruit was purchased mostly by adult females (48.25%) followed by school children (37.06%) and adult males (14.68%). The produce is marketed predominantly in polypropylene sacks (81.81 %) with jute sack taking only 3.63% of the packaging. XIV xv The sizes of the fruit as expected were variable. The pulp did not lose moisture at 75% ERH but lost moisture to the surrounding at ERI-I's 20, 55, and 65% and the same was true for the whole (intact) fruit. The resident fungi in the pulp belonged to 15 fungal species and 7 genera (Aspergillus, Candida, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Penicillium, Neurospora and Rhodotorulai. The fungal flora was predominated by Aspergillus (A. alutaceus, A. candidus, /I. flavus, A. fum igat us, A. niger, A. sulphureus, A. us/us) followed by Penicillium (P. digitatum, P. expansum) all of which are being recorded for the first time in the fruit of D. guineense. The fruits were also infested with an insect, Ephestia cautella, of economic importance. There was a commensurate drastic reduction in the mould count in the fruit as the irradiation dose increased from 0 to IOkGy. The resident fungi were not however completely eliminated with the variable residual species appearing after 3 months storage in the packaging materials (polypropylene, polyethylene and jute). The presence and isolation of mycotoxinproducing species A. flavus (Aflatoxins), A. alutaceus (Ochratoxins), P. expansum, P. digitatum (Patulin), F verticil/oides (fumonisin) leave much to be desired. Packaging did not significantly influence pH and ash content; but influenced total titratable acidity with increasing dose and storage time. The crude fat content decreased with prolonged storage and increasing dose of gamma irradiation while there was no interaction between dose applied, packaging material and storage time. The panelists did not find significant (P>0.05) difference in the parameters tested for acceptance (colour, sweetness, acidity and tenderness) and they found no differences in the packaging material although they slightly preferred produce kept in jute sacks. The practical implications of these findings are discussed in the light of future promotion and preservation of the pulp for industrial use after gamma irradiation.Item Radiation Preservation of Black Velvet Tamarind (Dialium guineense Wild.)(University of Ghana, 2010-12) Ofosu, D. O.The economic distribution and marketing of the lesser known fruit Dialium guineense Wild in Ghana has been studied using a structured questionnaire and the rapid appraisal system. The seasonality of the fruit (from January to May) makes it abundant in the peak season and rare or not all for the best part of the year. Some fruits also go to waste in the field owing to underexploitation. This thesis provides information on the resident fungi, mycological quality, sorption isotherm, and the effect of gamma irradiation and packaging on the physico-chemical properties of the fruit and the sensory evaluation of the pulp by a taste panel with the view to showing the economical and nutritional potential of the fruit. The resident fungi and mycological quality were assessed by the conventional decimal serial dilution technique and plating on three media (PDA, DG 18 and OGYE). Sorption isotherms at 29±J -c were determined under simulated Environmental Relative Humidity (20, 55, 65, 75, 85, 95%) provided by glycerol: water mixtures; physico-chemical properties were assessed by the method of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Descriptive and preference sensory evaluation were administered using prescribed international methods on a hedonic scale. The tamarind markets are in the southern sector of the country, namely Greater Accra, Eastern, Central, Ashanti and Volta Regions with the hub at Ho, Abor and Akatsi in the Volta Region. The local names of the fruit varied from one region to another. The fruit was purchased mostly by adult females (48.25%) followed by school children (37.06%) and adult males (14.68%). The produce is marketed predominantly in polypropylene sacks (81.81 %) with jute sack taking only 3.63% of the packaging. The sizes of the fruit as expected were variable. The pulp did not lose moisture at 75% ERH but lost moisture to the surrounding at ERI-I's 20, 55, and 65% and the same was true for the whole (intact) fruit. The resident fungi in the pulp belonged to 15 fungal species and 7 genera (Aspergillus, Candida, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Penicillium, Neurospora and Rhodotorula). The fungal flora was predominated by Aspergillus (A. alutaceus, A. candidus, A. flavus, A. fum igat us, A. niger, A. sulphureus, A. ustus) followed by Penicillium (P. digitatum, P. expansum) all of which are being recorded for the first time in the fruit of D. guineense. The fruits were also infested with an insect, Ephestia cautella, of economic importance. There was a commensurate drastic reduction in the mould count in the fruit as the irradiation dose increased from 0 to 10kGy. The resident fungi were not however completely eliminated with the variable residual species appearing after 3 months storage in the packaging materials (polypropylene, polyethylene and jute). The presence and isolation of mycotoxinproducing species A. flavus (Aflatoxins), A. alutaceus (Ochratoxins), P. expansum, P. digitatum (Patulin), F verticilloides (fumonisin) leave much to be desired. Packaging did not significantly influence pH and ash content; but influenced total titratable acidity with increasing dose and storage time. The crude fat content decreased with prolonged storage and increasing dose of gamma irradiation while there was no interaction between dose applied, packaging material and storage time. The panelists did not find significant (P>0.05) difference in the parameters tested for acceptance (colour, sweetness, acidity and tenderness) and they found no differences in the packaging material although they slightly preferred produce kept in jute sacks. The practical implications of these findings are discussed in the light of future promotion and preservation of the pulp for industrial use after gamma irradiation.Item Radiation Preservation of Black Velvet Tamarind (Dialium guineense Wild.)(University of Ghana, 2010-12) Ofosu, D.O.The economic distribution and marketing of the lesser known fruit Dialium guineense Wild in Ghana has been studied using a structured questionnaire and the rapid appraisal system. The seasonality of the fruit (from January to May) makes it abundant in the peak season and rare or not all for the best part of the year. Some fruits also go to waste in the field owing to underexploitation. This thesis provides information on the resident fungi, mycological quality, sorption isotherm, and the e ffect 0 f gamma irrad iation and packaging on the phys ico-chem ical properties of the fruit and the sensory evaluation of the pulp by a taste panel with the view to showing the economical and nutritional potential of the fruit. The resident fungi and mycological quality were assessed by the conventional decimal serial dilution technique and plating on three media (PDA, DG 18 and OGYE). Sorption isotherms at 29±J -c were determined under simulated Environmental Relative Humidity (20, 55, 65, 75, 85, 95%) provided by glycerol: water mixtures; physico-chemical properties were assessed by the method of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Descriptive and preference sensory eval uation were adrn inistered using prescribed international methods on a hedonic scale. The tamarind markets are in the southern sector of the country, namely Greater Accra, Eastern, Central, Ashanti and Volta Regions with the hub at Ho, Abor and Akatsi in the Volta Region. The local names of the fruit varied from one region to another. The fruit was purchased mostly by adult females (48.25%) followed by school children (37.06%) and adult males (14.68%). The produce is marketed predominantly in polypropylene sacks (81.81 %) with jute sack taking only 3.63% of the packaging. The sizes of the fruit as expected were variable. The pulp did not lose moisture at 75% ERH but lost moisture to the surrounding at ERI-I's 20, 55, and 65% and the same was true for the whole (intact) fruit. The resident fungi in the pulp belonged to 15 fungal species and 7 genera (Aspergillus, Candida, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Penicillium, Neurospora and Rhodotorulai. The fungal flora was predominated by Aspergillus (A. alutaceus, A. candidus, /I. flavus, A. fum igat us, A. niger, A. sulphureus, A. us/us) followed by Penicillium (P. digitatum, P. expansum) all of which are being recorded for the first time in the fruit of D. guineense. The fruits were also infested with an insect, Ephestia cautella, of economic importance. There was a commensurate drastic reduction in the mould count in the fruit as the irradiation dose increased from 0 to IOkGy. The resident fungi were not however completely eliminated with the variable residual species appearing after 3 months storage in the packaging materials (polypropylene, polyethylene and jute). The presence and isolation of mycotoxinproducing species A. flavus (Aflatoxins), A. alutaceus (Ochratoxins), P. expansum, P. digitatum (Patulin), F verticil/oides (fumonisin) leave much to be desired. Packaging did not significantly influence pH and ash content; but influenced total titratable acidity with increasing dose and storage time. The crude fat content decreased with prolonged storage and increasing dose of gamma irradiation while there was no interaction between dose applied, packaging material and storage time. The panelists did not find significant (P>0.05) difference in the parameters tested for acceptance (colour, sweetness, acidity and tenderness) and they found no differences in the packaging material although they slightly preferred produce kept in jute sacks. The practical implications of these findings are discussed in the light of future promotion and preservation of the pulp for industrial use after gamma irradiation.Item Effect Of Irradiation And Colchicine On Callus And Somatic Embryo Formation In Cassava (Manihot Esculenta Crantz)(University of Ghana, 2012-06) Dzimegah, D.A.A study was conducted to assess the mutagenic effect of gamma radiation on sprouting and height in four local cassava accessions.The four cassava accessions were assessed for their callus induction and somatic embryo formation ability from leaf lobes from gamma irradiated stakes as well as colchicine treated leaf lobes on different concentrations of plant growth regulators, incorporated into Murashige and Skoog, (1962) (MS) basal medium. The cassava accessions were irradiated at 0, 32, 35, 45 and 50 Gy and planted in pots filled with loamy soil. The height of the shoots was measured with rule after sprouting. The leaf lobes were collected from the shoots and cultured on MS medium supplemented with 8 mg/l 2,4-D and 16 mg/l Picloram. Another set of leaf lobes were treated with 0.0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.25 g/l colchicine for one hour and thereafter cultured on MS medium supplemented with 8 mg/l 2,4-D and 16 mg/l Picloram as described above. Callus induction from leaf lobes in 45 and 50 Gy were significantly (p≤0.05) affected by the irradiation. However, callus induced from leaf lobes in 32 and 35 Gy were not significantly (p≤0.05) affected by the irradiation. On the other hand, Callus induction from leaf lobes in 0.1-0.25 g/l colchicine were significantly (p≤0.05) affected by the mutagenic treatment whereas callus induced from leaf lobes in 0.05 g/l colchicine was not significantly (p≤0.05) affected. Callus induced on 8 mg/l 2,4-D and 16 mg/l picloram gave the best response in Ankrah and all control tested while Tomfa recorded the least. Colchicine at a concentration of 0.05 g/l and radiation dose of 32 Gy treatments gave the best response of callusing. Callus induction decreased with increasing colchicine concentration and gamma irradiation. Callus derived from irradiated and colchicine leaf lobes appeared soft but friable and tiny, compact, respectively, predominately with creamy to brown colouration.Calli obtained were sub-cultured on embryo regeneration medium consisting of MS supplemented with 0.01mg/l NAA and 0.1 mg/l BAP. There was no plantlet regeneration. Instead, embryo formation and prolific root was observed in cases where there was no embryo. Similarly, somatic embryo formation was significantly (p≤0.05) different among the accessions. No response to callus formation was observed in 0.25 g/l colchicine treatment after 30 days. Among the four accessions evaluated, Ankrah was the most promising accession in terms of callus induction frequency and somatic embryo formation ability. The results presented in this thesis clearly show that, sprouting in all accessions decreased as the dose of irradiation increased. Gamma irradiation had significantly (p≤0.05) effected height of cassava plant but this varied among all accessions.. Also, among the four accessions studied Ankrah and Tuaka were the most promising accession in terms of callus induction and somatic embryo formation ability.Item Anatomical, Germination And In Vitro Studies On Shea Tree (Vitellaria Paradoxa C.F.Gaertn.) Seed(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Iddrisu, A.In vivo and in vitro germination and regeneration studies were conducted on the development of Vitellaria paradoxa seedlings as an initial effort towards its domestication. However, to achieve this objective, the morphology and anatomy of the seeds were first studied because they influence germination. Although a smooth, brown coat encloses a V. paradoxa seed, it did not impose dormancy on the embryo. Transverse and longitudinal sections through the seed showed that the embryo is surrounded by latex- and fat-containing tissues which made its identification difficult. Thus, the embryo was identified by immersing transversely cut seeds in 1.0 % tetrazolium chloride (TTC) solution for 24 hours which stained it red. When V. paradoxa seeds of similar size were sown on nursery beds, the resulting seedlings developed through seven stages namely sprouting, pseudoradicle elongation, bulging, appearance of the shoot on the pseudoradicle, shoot elongation, emergence and seedling establishment. The pseudoradicle is the fused petioles of the two cotyledons and a transverse section through it revealed an outer sheath and lactiferous vessels surrounding a central hollow tube. Longitudinal section also showed the lactiferous vessels surrounding the central hollow tube in which the plumule moves through until it reaches the bulge of the pseudoradicle where it develops into a rudimentary shoot. The rudimentary shoot then protrudes from the pseudoradicle and grows upwards. Classifying seeds into three groups based on sizes and sowing them on nursery beds showed that seed size significantly affected days to germination and the morphology of the resulting seedlings. Large seeds germinated within one week after sowing with vigorous growth compared to small and medium seeds. Although the seedcoat of V. paradoxa never imposed dormancy, deshelling (removal of the seedcoat) significantly led to early germination and synchronous seedling emergence compared to those for intact seeds (control). In vitro culture of intact and deshelled seeds on Murashige and Skoog (1962) basal salts modified with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) produced no plantlets although 80 % of the deshelled seeds developed long pseudoradicles on a medium supplemented with lower concentration of BAP (1.0 or 2.0 mg/l). Similarly, the culture of TTC identified embryonic axes did not produce plantlets, but rather significantly long pseudoradicles were produced with BAP having significant effect on pseudoradicle development. Contrastingly, in vitro culture of excised rudimentary shoots on the same MS medium modified with BAP and naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) produced plantlets with distinct shoots and leaves. Significant reduction in days to emergence of seedlings from deshelled seeds and successful in vitro plantlet development using rudimentary shoot explants will enhance nursery establishment of this economically important tree species for domestication and reafforestation programmes in sub-Saharan Africa.Item Effect Of Irradiation On The Shelf Life And Nutritional Quality Of Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicon L.) Powder(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Atuobi-Yeboah, A.A.Tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.) is a major horticultural crop with an estimated global production of over 153 million metric tons. It is the most important fruit vegetable and the second most widely cultivated crop in the world after potato, with a total production of about 141 million tons. In 2009, the average total yield in Ghana was 7.5 Mt ha-1 compared to the achievable yield of 15.0 Mt ha-1. The tomato industry in Ghana for the past decade has been bedevilled by a myriad of problems of which post-harvest losses range between 30% and 70% in the major seasons of production, hence a study was conducted into the preservation of S. lycopersicon L. through drying and packaging to reduce post-harvest losses. Two drying methods comprising of solar and freeze drying were employed for three varieties of tomato which are cultivated locally. The methods were compared to determine the more efficient for the three varieties used in the study and the impact of drying and radiation on some physico-chemical properties, microbial load as well as shelf-life of the samples. Evaluation of the packaging material for the dried samples was also carried out. The samples were exposed to gamma irradiation at 0 kGy, 1 kGy, 2 kGy and 3 kGy. The parameters determined included moisture content, pH, titratable acidity; total soluble solids total carotenoids, lycopene, lutein and beta carotene. Microbial analysis carried out included total aerobic mesophilic bacteria count, total coliform count and moulds and yeasts using standard methods. Data were analyzed using ANOVA. Storage had significant effect (p<0.05) on the pH, TSS, TTA, colour and microbial load of the various varieties used. Irradiation had a significant effect (p<0.05) on pH, colour, microbial quality, lycopene content, beta carotene, and total carotenoid content of the varieties used; however irradiation had no significant (p>0.05) effect on moisture content, total soluble solids and microbial quality of the varieties used. Comparing powders obtained from freeze dried and solar dried tomatoes (Akoma), solar drying emerged as a more efficient method of drying. In Akoma, significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in all the parameters due to the difference in drying methods. Gamma irradiation did not affect (p>0.05) the moisture content, total soluble solids, of the Akoma variety irrespective of the drying method used. However, gamma irradiation had a significant effect (p<0.05) effect on pH, colour, total aerobic mesophilic counts, total coliforms; moulds and yeast, total carotenoid, lutein and beta carotene. Storage had significant (p<0.05) effect on the colour, total carotenoid content, and lycopene of the powders from the two drying methods. The packaging material used was suitable for the solar dried powder but not the freeze dried powder. Varietal differences (p<0.05) existed between the tomatoes in terms of moisture content, total soluble solids, pH, titratable acidity, colour, total aerobic mesophilic counts, total coliform count and total moulds and yeast counts.Item Effect Of Npk Fertiliser On Growth, Flowering And Yield Of Fonio (Digitaria Exilis) In A Coastal Agro-Ecological Environment Of Ghana(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Amekli, Y.Fonio (Digitaria spp) is a neglected and underutilised crop traditionally grown in the Sahelian savannah agro-ecological zone of Ghana for its grain which is rich in crude protein, fibre and has medicinal properties. Decline in production of the crop is attributed to poor agronomic and yield characteristics and changing agro-climatic conditions as a result of global warming which has rendered traditional growing areas too dry to support cultivation of the crop. There is a need to explore the possibility of growing the crop in new agro-ecologies to sustain the production. The study was therefore conducted in Kwabenya-Atomic area which is located in the coastal savannah agro-ecological zone of Ghana, to evaluate the adaptability of three fonio landraces (Yadema, Nomber and Nvoni) to the coastal zone, their growth and response to NPK 15:15:15 fertiliser treatment, apparent fertiliser nitrogen recovery (AFNR) as well as presence of basic elements, in the grains. Field experiments were conducted in 2012 during the major cropping season, using three fonio landraces grown at a planting distance of 0.05 m 0.45 m. The experiment design used was the split plot in three replicates. Plants were sampled every two weeks throughout the growing season. Grain yield (GY) and its associated apparent fertiliser nitrogen recovery were significantly different (P ≤ 0.05) among the fonio landraces during the cropping season with the landrace Nvoni producing the highest grain yield of 964 kg ha−1 at NPK fertiliser rate of 60 kg ha−1 and with a AFNR of 33.1%. The study also established a positive correlation between biomass accumulation and grain yield. The efficiency of grain production per unit of fertiliser nitrogen (FN) increased, but at a diminishing rate with each additional unit of FN. Additionally, ten essential mineral elements (Na, Mg, K, Ca, I, Cl, Cu, Al, Mn and V) were detected among the grain of the three fonio landrace using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA).Item Investigations Into The Shelf Life And Nutritional Quality Of Fresh Tomato Fruit (Solanum Lycopersicon) Following Two Post - Harvest Treatments(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Gyimah, L.A.Tomato production in Ghana is characterized by a glut and high post – harvest losses during the major season followed by scarcity and high prices during the off season. This is the result or absence of a standard method for preservation of fresh fruits. This research was conducted to determine an effective method for the post - harvest treatment of fresh tomato fruits to enhance shelf life while preserving its physicochemical and nutritional properties. Two experiments were conducted, each with a factorial design of 5x2. In experiment one, the fruits were subjected to 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 kGy gamma radiation and stored at 10±1ºC and 28±1ºC. In experiment two, CaCl2 dissolved in distilled water at 0, 1.00, 1.50, 2.00 and 2.50 % concentrations were used to coat tomato fruits and stored at 10±1ºC and 28±1ºC. Gamma radiation at 4kGy extended the shelf life of tomato by 5 and 9 days above control when stored at 28±1ºC and 10±1ºC respectively. The use of CaCl2 at 2.50% greatly extended the shelf life of tomato by 11 days and 18 days above control when stored at 28±1ºC and 10±1ºC respectively. For both treatments, shelf life increased with increasing dose of radiation/ concentration of CaCl2. Weight loss was higher in control fruits as well as fruits treated with gamma radiation or CaCl2 coating stored at 28±1ºC temperature than treated fruits stored at 10±1ºC. Tomato fruits treated with gamma radiation at 1 and 2 kGy and untreated fruits showed an increase in pH and Total Soluble Solids (TSS) which was paralleled by a decrease in Total Titratable Acidity (TTA) as storage period advanced at both storage temperatures. However, fruits treated with CaCl2 at 1.00% had little effect on pH and TTA of tomato during the storage period. Nutritionally, CaCl2 coating significantly maintained the vitamin C and lycopene concentrations in tomato fruit more than control and gamma irradiation which reduced vitamin C and lycopene contents in the fruits significantly with days of storage. Storage at 10±1ºC better preserved the antioxidants properties of the fruits better than storage at 28±1ºC. Elemental composition (Na, K, Zn, Cu and Mn) of the tomato fruits analysed on the initial and final days of storage showed K to be the element with the highest concentration whilst Zn was the least. Generally, gamma irradiation led to an increase in the concentration of Na and K for all doses whilst CaCl2 coating significantly decreased the concentrations of the same elements at both storage temperatures. Concentrations of Zn, Cu and Mn reduced significantly in the tomato fruits by the final day of storage for all treatments following storage at 10±1ºC whilst there were inconsistencies in the contents of the elements in tomato fruits stored at 28±1ºC. Gamma radiation and CaCl2 significantly reduced the microbial load in tomato at both temperatures compared to the control. The reduction was proportional to increasing dose of irradiation and concentration of CaCl2. However, CaCl2 significantly reduced Total Aerobic Mesophiles as well as Mould and Yeast growth in tomato fruits compared to gamma irradiation at both temperatures. In general, treated tomato fruits stored at lower temperature (10±1ºC) had more stability and longer shelf life as well as the ability to maintain nutritional properties than those stored at 28±1ºC.Item Studies Of Essential And Non-Essential Elements In Cereal-Based Weaning Foods For Infants Commercially Available On The Ghanaian Market(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Bawol, S.Cereal-based weaning foods, which abound on the Ghanaian market, are nutritionally vital in the growth and development of infants. Recent reports in scientific literature however indicate that rice and other cereals used in the manufacture of the weaning foods contribute significantly to the intake of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) by infants. In view of this, frequent monitoring of the cereal-based weaning foods has become imperative. The study assessed the beneficial health effects and risks posed by the consumption of cereal-based weaning foods commercially available on the Ghanaian market with respect to the essential elements (Ca, Cl, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Se, V and Zn) and, non-essential, potentially toxic elements (As, Br, Hg, Pb and Sn). Twenty (20) different brands of weaning foods were purchased from various retail outlets in Accra and used for the study. Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) and atomic absorption spectrometry [with flame atomisation (FAAS) and hydride generation (HGAAS)] were used in analysing the samples. Determination of Pb using FAAS was done following its extraction with dithizone. The analytical methods were validated using certified reference materials NIST 1568a (Rice flour) and NIST 1547 (Peach leaves). The levels (μg/g, in ranges) obtained for the elements were: As (< 0.025), Br (<0.17-402), Ca (405-2002), Cl (158-5521) and Cr (<0.03-1.23). Others are: Cu (0.83-55.80), Fe (1.07-11.78), Hg (< 0.025), K (49-3845) Mg (20-280) and Mn (0.84-38.94). The rest include: Na (13-1588), Pb (0.025-0.093), Se (0.145-0.317), Sn (35.8-91.8), V (<0.01-0.990) and Zn (0.50-7.17). The daily intakes of the essential elements were also estimated, and generally found to be lower than recommended values set either by the FAO/WHO, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the US Food and Nutrition Board, or the Joint Societies for Nutrition of Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The estimated intake levels of the non-essential, potentially toxic elements As, Hg, Sn and Pb were all lower than their respective provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) values established by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Contaminants and Food Additives (JECFA). The results indicated that the analysed food samples were generally safe for consumption with respect to their content of the non-essential elements analysed. However, the contributions of the food samples to the daily essential element needs of the infant were mostly woefully inadequate, and this may not augur well for the proper growth and development of infants that consume them.Item Characterization of Yellow-, Red-, and Purple- Kernel Maize (Zea Mays L.) Accessions in Ghana(University Of Ghana, 2013-07) Ansah, GTwenty yellow-, red- and purple-kernel maize accessions were collected from three regions in Ghana for the study. The objectives were to characterize the yellow-, red- and purple-kernel maize accessions in Ghana using phenotypic traits in order to determine their identity, using molecular traits for confirmation of their identity and to determine the presence of the opaque -2 gene and -carotene content of the grains as a way of assessing nutritional quality. A replicated field experiment was conducted to evaluate and characterize the accessions based on 16 quantitative and eleven qualitative traits. The same accessions were characterized based on 16 SSR markers. Variability in -carotene content was determined by HPLC while presence of opaque 2-gene was determined by a light box. The results revealed that accessions GH4055 and GH4863 are extra early maturing and therefore can be very useful for urban farmers producing fresh maize and for cultivation in the coastal savanna ecological zone. However, they produce smaller cobs (Cob weight = 58.24g) as compared to other accessions. Significant variability in morphological traits was observed among the accessions with cob weight, number of kernels per row, plant height and 1000 seed weight having coefficient of variation of 42.7544, 20.5828, 11.4634, 13.0634 and 26.76 respectively. Few traits contributed to the variations observed as revealed by the principal components analysis and these include days to 50% anthesis, days to 50 % leaf senescence, plant height and cob weight. A dendrogram generated from morphological traits clustered the accessions based on kernel colour, physical structure of the plant and geographical location. Two duplicates were identified among the accessions and widest genetic distance was observed between NYR1 and GH4055. Strong correlation exist between most of the morphological traits measured (r = 0.9103) but negative correlation was observed between most important yield parameters and number of row per cob. Accession NYR1 showed promise in terms of yield (1000 seed weight = 281 g) as well as high carotenoid (4.7895 μg/g) and -carotene content (0.8507 μg/g) and therefore can be very useful in future breeding programmes. Population genetic analysis shows that the accession bear close resemblance to each other with high Nei's genetic identity coefficient 0.9587 and 0.9020 between accessions from Northern and Eastern region and Northern and Greater Accra region respectively with short genetic distances and this is confirmed by the high outcrossing rate (0.6642) and gene flow (0.7387) among the populations and the high heterozygosity (0.4023). A dendrogram generated by SSR markers revealed that the accessions are separate entries with no duplications. Significant variations were found in the -carotene and carotenoid contents of the accession. Accession DYF had the highest carotenoid and -carotene concentrations of 12.0327 and 2.0313 respectively. No significant correlation was observed between kernel colour and -carotene content. Generally the amount of -carotene increased with increasing carotenoid content but this is not always the case as few exceptions may be found as revealed by the experiment. None of the accessions contained the opaque-2 gene and therefore did not fit the description of Quality Protein Maize. It is recommended that accession DYF had the highest carotenoid and -carotene concentrations. The accession also performed well in various yield parameters and therefore can be useful in the fresh maize market as well as food for infants and accessions GH4055 and GH4863 are extra early maturing and can be useful for cultivation in the coastal savanna ecological zone and for minor season cropping in the forest and forest savanna transitional zones. Information presented may be useful to the breeder, the farmer and the consumer.Item Development And Preservation Of A Cocktail Beverage Produced From Carrot (Daucus Carrota), Pineapple (Ananas Comosus) And Mango (Mangifera Indica L,)(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Boateng, A.A.Carrot is known to have the potential of providing vital nutrition as well as health and well-being to consumers. In this study, carrot juice was envisaged as a good vehicle for spreading its nutraceutical benefits. The study was then designed in two parts: (a) Survey to establish the beverage consumption pattern in the Anyaa-Sowutuom District in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana and (b) Carrot juice formulation and optimisation. The survey was conducted by administering a questionnaire to volunteer adult consumers. To develop an acceptable carrot juice beverage, pineapple juice and mango juice were included as components to improve taste and flavour respectively. A constrained, simplex centroid mixture design for three components was employed to optimise the proportions of the components in the final product based on sensory attributes. Chemical analyses as well as shelf stability studies were conducted for the optimised beverage preserved by chemicals and gamma radiation. Data obtained from the survey revealed that juices were very popular among consumers. The choice of a particular beverage was dependent on nutrition, taste and colour. Contour plots generated from sensory data of the products were overlaid to determine the optimum ratios of the components of the cocktail beverage. The optimised product consisted of 50-52 % Carrot, 18-20 % Pineapple and 28-30 % Mango. Analysis of the beverage revealed 223 mg/100ml Potassium, 3.92 mg/100ml Pro-vitamin A (Beta carotene) and 43 mg/100ml Vitamin C. After 8 weeks of storage 77 % Pro-vitamin A was retained in products chemically treated and as well as products irradiated at 1 kGy. However, about 60 % of this same nutrient was retained even under relatively higher dose (2.5 kGy) of gamma radiation. The microbial quality of the beverage was good under all conditions studied.Item Comparative Study of Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrum Deconvolution PyMCA and WinAxil(University of Ghana, 2015) Twum Bannor, N.YA comparative study of spectrum deconvolution and quantitative analysis between PyMCA & WinAxil has been undertaken. Standard spectra of X-ray Kα lines (Ti, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr & Y) & Lα lines (Ce, Sm, Dy, Ta, W, Hg & U) were fitted with both software; also spectra of three soil samples were fitted with both software. Intensities of the elements of the standard spectra were obtained from the results of the fitting using both software and comparisons were made separately for both Kα & Lα lines between the two software. Sensitivity calibrations were done for both Kα & Lα lines and comparisons between the two software were also made. The intensities of the spectra of the three soil samples obtained from fitting using both software were also compared. Quantitative analysis of the spectra of the three soil samples was performed and the concentrations of the elements obtained using both software were compared. A simple manual for spectrum fitting and quantitative analysis using PyMCA has been written for first-time users of the software (PyMCA); a flowchart for the manual has also been prepared. Comparison of intensities for Kα elements showed excellent agreement between the two software. The intensities of Lα elements obtained also compared favourably. Comparison of the concentrations of the elements in the spectra of the three soil samples showed excellent agreement. The X-ray spectrum fitting capabilities of PyMCA compare favourably with those of WinAxil. The development of WinAxil has been discontinued; therefore, PyMCA when appropriately adapted can be used in place of WinAxil for qualitative and quantitative analysis for spectra from X-ray tube excitation sources.Item Comparative Biology and Reproductive Behaviour of a Laboratory- Adapted Redco Strain of Anopheles Gambiae Giles (Diptere; Culicidae and Wild Populations of the Species(University of Ghana, 2015) Barfi, EThe sterile insect technique involves mass rearing of male insects for sterility purpose. This heavily relies on male fitness and genetic compatibility of laboratory-adapted male insects and the wild to ensure successful competition with their male counterpart in the wild. Uniform environment in the laboratory as compared to the wild conditions might lead to genetic drift which might lead to reduced sexual competitiveness, fitness, morphological changes or changes in the sexual behaviour of mosquitoes. This work investigated the sexual compatibility, morphometry and sexual behaviour of laboratory-adapted strain and wild strain of Anopheles gambiae under laboratory conditions. These measurements were done by observing swarm formation, genitalia rotation, percentage insemination, fecundity, fertility, wing length, wing width, thoracic width, body length, body size index and wing size index. Morphometric studies of laboratory-adapted and wild strain of Anopheles gambiae were carried out by observing the wing length, body length and thoracic length under Lecia 4D stereoscope in order to find out variations in the body size between the two strains. The results showed significant difference between thoracic width and wing length between the laboratory-adapted strain and wild strain. Indices such as body size index and wing length index also showed significant difference between the two strains; laboratory-adapted REDCO strain (BSI 4.45 ± 0.10, p = 0.010 ; WSI 1.92 ± 0.07, p = 0.026) and wild REDCO strain ( 4.08 ± 0.10, p = 0.010 ; WSI 1.73 ± 0.04, p = 0.026 ). Body length of laboratory-adapted male mosquitoes (4.24 ± 0.05, p = 0.462) was not significantly different from its thoracic width, wing length, and wing width. The wild strain on the other hand had significant difference between its body length (4.19 ± 0.04, p = 0.462), thoracic width (0.096 ± 0.02, p = 0.002 ) and wing length (2.99 ± 0.03, p = 0.050 ). In the mating experiment, egg production in each of the crosses (W♂ x W♀; 594.00 ± 20.00, p = 0.00 ), (L♂ x L♀ ; 108.00 ± 119.00, p = 0.00) and (237.00 ± 40.00, p = 0.00) showed significance in egg production. The results suggest that sizes of the two strains differ and also laboratory-adapted strain produced the highest number of eggs.Item Intra-Specific Hybridisation and Performance Evaluation of Hybrid Lines of Roselle (Hibiscus Sabdariffa L.)(University Of Ghana, 2015-03) Kwofie, J.Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is an important multi-purpose crop in Ghana and across West Africa, used as a source of food as well as raw material for medicinal and industrial applications. However, due to limited research efforts to gather relevant information on breeding behaviour and inheritance of desirable traits of existing cultivars to enhance yield and nutritional contents, economic potential of the crop has not been fully exploited. The present study was therefore initiated with a broad objective of assessing breeding behaviour and nature of inheritance of selected qualitative and quantitative traits and also variability with respect to agro-morphological characteristics, as well as nutritional composition of leaves and calyces, among 20 local accessions of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.); comprising 6 accessions of H. sabdariffa var altissima and 14 accessions of H. sabdariffa var sabdariffa. The accessions were collected from three major production regions of Ghana (Northern, Volta and Western). The investigations were carried out at the research fields and laboratories of Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI) from April 2013 to November 2014. All six accessions of var altissima were able to hybridize with one another in both direct and reciprocal cross combinations with high degree of crossability success (30 % to 80 %). On the other hand, cross compatibility among the 14 accessions of var sabdariffa was direction-dependent, and crossability success was low (0.00 % to 43.33 %), as some parents could only be used as males or females. Parental lines A3 and A11 emerged as most compatible male and female respectively. Crossability success was relatively high during early hours of the day but decreased continuously in subsequent hours. Fourteen parental accessions and 25 F1 progenies of var sabdariffa evaluated for 23 agro-morphological traits exhibited significant variations in all quantitative traits studied. Clustering pattern based on both qualitative and quantitative traits largely reflected colour and size of calyx. Leaf and calyx traits showed strongest positive association among pairs of quantitative traits investigated. Accessions D2, D3, D4 and D6 exhibited highest general combining ability for major yield traits; days to first flowering, number of fruits per plant, plant height and stem basal diameter, while D2 x D5, D5 x D2, D2 x D4, D6 x D5, D3 x D6 and D6 x D4 emerged as most promising in specific cross combinations following a diallele experiment. Concentrations of the various nutrients were generally higher in calyces compared to the leaves. Except for total titrable acid and vitamin C contents, F1 offspring performed better on all other parameters than their parental accessions and control varieties. Calyces of A11 x A1 and A11 x A13 contained highest protein, ash and pH contents and relatively low moisture as well as highest concentration of K (3284.04±0.01 mg/100 g), Fe (19.45±0.02 mg/100 g) and Ca (1360.70±1.0 mg/100 g), while A4 x A1 recorded highest concentrations of Mg (4.30±0.88 mg/100 g). With regards to the leaf samples, A7 x A12 produced highest values for Ca (1440.20±1.00 mg/100 g) and Fe (15.59±0.01 mg/100 g), while A11 x A2 gave highest Mg (2.72±0.13 mg/100 g) and Na (32.93±1.15 mg/100 g) contents. Similarly leaves of A2 gave highest concentration of K (1641.08±0.01 mg/100 g). These results demonstrate possibility of producing superior hybrids of roselle through artificial cross-pollination. Key recommendations based on these findings include: i) ascertaining specific barriers to crossability between accessions of H. sabdariffa var sabdariffa and H. sabdariffa var altissima to aid transfer of useful traits between them. ii) use of molecular markers to confirm results of morphological characterisation and also to better understand inheritance of qualitative traits. iii) composite breeding to incorporate as many desirable traits as possible into one or two improved (standard) variety/varieties.Item Genetic Diversity Studies in Twenty Accessions of Hot Pepper (Capsicum Spp L.) In Ghana.(University of Ghana, 2015-07) Doku, S.K.; Amoatey, H.M.; Amiteye, S.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Nuclear Agriculture and Radiation ProcessingTwenty (20) accessions of hot pepper (Capsicum spp L.) were collected from eight geographical regions of Ghana for genetic diversity studies. The objective was to assess genetic relationship among them using phenotypic and molecular traits and to evaluate their elemental composition. A replicated field experiment was conducted to assess their genetic diversity based on 13 quantative traits and 22 qualitative traits using the IBPGR descriptor list for Capsicum. Confirmation of their identities was done using 10 SSR markers. The accessions were also evaluated for macro, micro and trace elements in their fresh fruits using the Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA). Five essential macro elements (Ca, Cl, K, Mg and Na), two micro elements (Al and Mn) and one trace element (Br) were detected by INAA. Results from the agromorphological study revealed that accession Wes 01 had the widest stem width, matured leaf width, high fruit set but late maturing. Nor 03 was early maturing and had high fruit set, but also possesssed the highest number of seeds per fruit. Fruit weight, fruit width, fruit length and plant canopy width, recorded the highest variabilities with 66.191; 53.24; 49.32; and 32.42 coefficients of variation (CVs), respectively. Few traits such as plant canopy width, plant height, fruit length, mature leaf length and number of seeds per fruit contributed substantially to total genetic variance as revealed by the principal component analysis (PCA). A dendrogram generated using morphological traits grouped accessions into cultivated and wild genotypes of pepper and all the accessions were identified as separate entities with no duplications. Strong correlation was recorded between plant canopy width and plant height, mature leaf length and mature leaf width, and also fruit weight and fruit width and fruit length. Negative correlation was however, observed between fruit length and days to 50% fruiting and flowering. All three accessions from the Northern Region, Nor-01, Nor-02 and Nor-03, as well as Vol-01 from the Volta Region recorded high amount of Sodium in their fruit samples. Genetic analysis of the structure of the population showed close resemblance among the accessions with a high genetic identity coefficient of 0.975 between populations 1 and 2. A rather short genetic distance was recorded evidenced by high outcrossing rate of 0.72. Accessions Wes 01 and Nor 03 may be recommended for improvement for the export market.Item Comparative Biology and Reproductive Behaviour of A Laboratory- Adapted Redco Strain of Anopheles Gambiae Giles (Diptera; Culicidae) and Wild Populations of the Same Species.(University of Ghana, 2015-07) Barfi, E; Osae, M; Annoh, C.E; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Nuclear Agriculture and Radiation ProcessingThe sterile insect technique involves mass rearing of male insects for sterility purpose. This heavily relies on male fitness and genetic compatibility of laboratory-adapted male insects and the wild to ensure successful competition with their male counterpart in the wild. Uniform environment in the laboratory as compared to the wild conditions might lead to genetic drift which might lead to reduced sexual competitiveness, fitness, morphological changes or changes in the sexual behaviour of mosquitoes. This work investigated the sexual compatibility, morphometry and sexual behaviour of laboratory-adapted strain and wild strain of Anopheles gambiae under laboratory conditions. These measurements were done by observing swarm formation, genitalia rotation, percentage insemination, fecundity, fertility, wing length, wing width, thoracic width, body length, body size index and wing size index. Morphometric studies of laboratory-adapted and wild strain of Anopheles gambiae were carried out by observing the wing length, body length and thoracic length under Lecia 4D stereoscope in order to find out variations in the body size between the two strains. The results showed significant difference between thoracic width and wing length between the laboratory-adapted strain and wild strain. Indices such as body size index and wing length index also showed significant difference between the two strains; laboratory-adapted REDCO strain (BSI 4.45 ± 0.10, p = 0.010 ; WSI 1.92 ± 0.07, p = 0.026) and wild REDCO strain ( 4.08 ± 0.10, p = 0.010 ; WSI 1.73 ± 0.04, p = 0.026 ). Body length of laboratory-adapted male mosquitoes (4.24 ± 0.05, p = 0.462) was not significantly different from its thoracic width, wing length, and wing width. The wild strain on the other hand had significant difference between its body length (4.19 ± 0.04, p = 0.462), thoracic width (0.096 ± 0.02, p = 0.002 ) and wing length 2 (2.99 ± 0.03, p = 0.050 ). In the mating experiment, egg production in each of the crosses (W♂ x W♀; 594.00 ± 20.00, p = 0.00 ), (L♂ x L♀ ; 108.00 ± 119.00, p = 0.00) and (237.00 ± 40.00, p = 0.00) showed significance in egg production. The results suggest that sizes of the two strains differ and also laboratory-adapted strain produced the highest number of eggs.Item Composting Of Organically Amended/Treated Hardwood and Softwood Sawdust(University of Ghana, 2015-07) Takyi-Lartey, R.; Asare, D. K.; Boatin, R.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Nuclear Agriculture and Radiation ProcessingSawdust is a major waste produced by the wood industry. Adding value to sawdust through composting is one of the surest means by which environmental pollution could be minimized. About 500 kg of softwood and hardwood sawdust were separately mixed with mucuna leaves and kitchen waste in the ratio of 3:1:1 on weight basis and heaped using effluent from abattoir to develop composts. Objectives of the study were to monitor changes in the physico-chemical properties, NH4+ ‒ N, NO3‒ ‒ N, C:N ratio, minerals N, K, P, microbial load and toxic elements in the composts during a 12 week period. Germination test was also done to evaluate the stability and maturity of the composts developed. Degradation of softwood sawdust compost (SSC) was better in the mesophilic phase while that of hardwood sawdust compost (HSC) occurred in the thermophilic phase. Thus, significantly higher amount of the organic material in SSC was decomposed during the period as compared to HSC. Also, greater percentage of the nitrogen in the initial material of SSC was converted into plant-available inorganic nitrogen (NH4+ and NO3‒) than was achieved in HSC. Hence, most of the mineral nitrogen in HSC that was converted was lost, probably in the thermophilic phase. On the contrary, the amount of organic nitrogen contained in the finished composts of both SSC and HSC were adequately good for application to the soil. Additionally, concentrations of pathogenic microorganisms in SSC and HSC products were within acceptable limits in terms of toxicity on growing plants. The softwood sawdust compost was relatively more stable as compared to HSC under the experimental conditions. Concentrations of heavy metals in both SSC and HSC were also within acceptable limits that would cause no toxicity to plants. Also, moisture contents in both SSC and HSC were within the good range (40 - 60%) required for a good compost. Thus both SSC and HSC produced were of good quality. Further research targeting specific wood species utilised in Ghana would help to identify composting materials which are readily degradable, as well as those that are toxic to microorganisms.Item Non-Destructive Determination of Photosynthetic Rates of Eight Varieties of Cassava (Manihot Esculenta, Crantz(University of Ghana, 2015-07) Amadu, A.A.; Danso, K.E.; Owusu, G.K.; University of Ghana; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences,Department of Nuclear Agriculture and Radiation ProcessingItem Propagation And Molecular Characterisation Of Rubber Tree (Hevea Brasiliensis Muell. Arg.) In Ghana(University of Ghana, 2015-07) Antwi-Wiredu, A.The study was aimed at the propagation and molecular characterisation of some introduced clones of Hevea brasiliensis in Ghana. Propagation of H. brasiliensis by stem cuttings and in vitro techniques was used to study alternative procedures for mass production of rubber planting materials. Brown and green stem cuttings of Clone I and Clone II were soaked for 6 hours in 0.0-22.5g/L NAA followed by propagation in a nursery bag filled with nutrient-rich soil. Only the brown stem cuttings of H. brasiliensis survived. The % survival, length of shoots, number of roots as well as length of roots of Clone II was significantly (P<0.05) higher than Clone I. Stem cuttings treated with 15.0g/L NAA significantly (P<0.05) developed higher shoots (83.33%), number of roots (6.167), length of shoots (15.38cm) and length of roots (6.00cm) than the remaining treatments. There was significant (P<0.05) effects of NAA and Clone II in sprouting and rooting growth of the brown stem cuttings. The addition of 5.0mg/L kinetin in the MS culture medium significantly (P<0.05) enhanced higher shoot development (84.00%), number of shoots (3.60) and leaves (23.40) of the shoot-tip explants compared to other treatments. In nodal explants cultured on a medium without kinetin developed higher shoots (94.00%), height of shoot (4.80cm), number of leaves (19.20), number of shoots (6.00) and number of roots (7.00) than those with kinetin treatments. However, 7.5mg/L kinetin of the nodal culture also performed significantly after the controls. A dendrogram derived from the UPGMA distinguished the rubber clones from four areas of Ghana into two clusters. The five SSR markers showed high degree of relatedness among the rubber clones which suggested high genetic similarity (IRCA317-5, IRCA41-2, IRCA331-6, IRCA230-4, IRCA109-3, B8-23) and some degree of diversity/variation (K2-18, IRCA840-7, PB217-8, PB217-10, IRCA317-16) among the clones. Thus, clones of interest could be selected for future breeding and propagation programmes. Successful in vivo and in vitro propagation as well as molecular characterisation (genetic similarity and diversity) of rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) in Ghana were achieved.Item Productivity and Water Use by Rain-Fed Early Maturing Cassava (Manihot Esculenta Crantz) Varieties Grown at Different Plant Densities in a Coastal Savannah Environment(University of Ghana, 2016-06) Amanor, E.N.; Asare, D.K.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Nuclear Agriculture and Radiation ProcessingThe production of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) under rain-fed conditions at the Kwabenya-Atomic area in the coastal savannah environment is constrained by low and erratic rainfall events. Improving cassava production in the area requires the use of cassava varieties which are efficient in the use of limited soil moisture. The objective of the study was to evaluate the response of two early maturing cassava varieties to three (3) planting densities to TDM, RY, and WUE. The actual evapotranspiration was also partitioned into crop transpiration and soil evaporation using LAI data. The field experiment was conducted at Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI) research farm, Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), Kwabenya-Atomic in 2015. The split plot design in three replicates was used. The two (2) cassava varieties, Bankye Hemaa and Capevars Bankye, were assigned to the main plots and three (3) planting densities: 10,000, 13,333 and 20,000 plants ha-1 to the subplots. Plants were sampled each month and moisture in the 120 cm soil profile monitored every two weeks using the neutron probe (CPN 503 Hydroprobe). Soil moisture data were used to estimate actual evapotranspiration (AET) using the water balance approach. Root yield (RY) for Bankye Hemaa and Capevars Bankye, ranged from 2.8 to 15.1 t/ha-1 for the 10,000 plants ha-1, 4.2 to 18.1 t/ha-1 for the 13,333 plants ha-1 and 5.1 to 21.3 t/ha-1 for the 20,000 plants ha-1. Additionally, water use efficiency in term of total dry matter (WUETDM ) for the two cassava varieties ranged from 1.7 to 11.6, 2.3 to 12.8 and 3.7 to 12.4 kg ha-1 mm-1 for the 10,000, 13,333 and 20,000 plants ha-1 planting density, respectively. Bankye Hemaa grown at 20,000 plants ha-1 produced the highest root yield of 21.3 t/ha-1 and WUETDM of 12.4 kg ha-1 mm-1, because of the comparatively lower soil evaporation which led to increased available soil water for crop use and higher crop transpiration, leading to enhanced yield and water use efficiency. A good positive correlation existed between TUERY and RY for both cassava varieties grown at the planting density of 20,000 plants ha -1 with Bankye Hemaa producing a near perfect linear relation (TUERY = 0.0011RY + 13.492, r2 = 0.97; P ≤ 0.01**). Additionally, a linear model sufficiently describes the relation between the combined total dry matter (TDM) and its associated water use efficiency for Bankye Hemaa and Capevars Bankye grown at all three planting densities: 10,000 plants ha-1 (WUETDM = 0.0011TDM + 1.4628, r2 = 0.90; P ≤ 0.01**) , 13,333 plants ha-1 (WUETDM = 0.0012TDM + 2.8, r2 = 0.90; P ≤ 0.01**) and 20,000 plants ha-1 (WUETDM = 0.0001TDM + 2.6754, r2 = 0.90; P ≤ 0.01**) . Furthermore, a strong and positive correlation existed between WUERY and RY for both cassava varieties grown at all three planting densities: 10,000 plants ha -1 (WUERY = 0.0012RY + 3.1252, r2 = 0.94; P ≤ 0.01**), 13,333 plants ha -1 (WUERY = 0.001RY + 4.052, r2 = 0.92; P ≤ 0.01**) and 20,000 plants ha -1 (WUERY = 0.001RY + 4.7749, r2 = 0.97; P ≤ 0.01**).