EFFECT OF TERMITES (GNATHAMITERMES Perplexus) INFESTATION ON SPATIAL VARIATION OF SOIL PROPERTIES AND HORTICULTURAL CROPS GROWTH

Abstract

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of termites (Gnathamitermes perplexus) infestation on spatial variation of soil properties and horticultural crops growth in Alkaleri Local Government area of Bauchi State, Nigeria. A total of 68 soil samples were collected from two (2) location; 34 each from termites infested area and in a location without termite’s infestation. Results showed that the soils were characterized by very low to medium organic matter content, very low to low levels of nitrogen content, available phosphorus range between low and high, exchangeable bases (calcium, magnesium) in both soils ranges between very low and low, Sodium content ranges between medium and high with only slight variation in Cation exchange capacity (CEC). Results of soil analysis further revealed that pH (water) and pH (CaCl₂) of both soils of the study area were acidic in nature. Correlation analysis showed that there was positive and significant relationship between pH versus CEC at 0.044**; organic matter versus CEC at 0321**; and calcium versus CEC at 0.909^**. Correlation was again significant at P≤0.05 levels between available phosphorus versus calcium at 0.307* and available phosphorus versus CEC at 0.263*. T-test carried out revealed that the activities of termites in the infested soil placed the nutrients status higher compared to the surrounding soils without termites infestation. The study concluded that termite’s activities have also affected the lateral and spatial variation of both chemical and physical soil properties and horticultural crops growth in the research area. The study recommended that government, cooperate organizations and private individuals should encourage and provide adequate funding for a further research in both soils and horticultural crops infested with termites and farmers be enlightened to adopt modern techniques and skills for soil and fertility management.