UNIVERSITY OF ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES

BSc. NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

LAND RECLAMATION AND RESTORATION

LEVEL: 300

INDEX: UE20028613

DATE: 6th March, 2016

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A COMPREHENSIVE REPORT ON

INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT TO THE

PLANT GENETIC RESOURCE

RESEARCH INSTITUTE (CSIR-PGRRI),

BUNSO Industrial Attachment Report.

ABSTRACT The Plant Genetic Resources Research

Institute (PGRRI) is one of the 13 research

institutes under the Council for Scientific

and Industrial Research (CSIR). The CSIR-

PGRRI has the mandate to collect,

characterize, evaluate, document, conserve,

distribute and utilize plant genetic resources

(PGR) from Ghana and abroad. This report

is geared towards readers understanding the

essence of embarking on industrial

attachment as well as the PGRRI operations

and their relevance to the nation. Also

readers will have the understanding on the

structure, activities, lessons learnt,

challenges and recommendations to the

PGRRI. And hence identifying problems

for research within the Plant Genetics

Resource Research Institute (PGRRI) and

my contributions towards the organization.

by: EFFAH ABREFA OSBORN UE20028613

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PREFACE

Industrial attachment creates the need for any discerning student to have a clear

picture of what he/she has done in the form of writing (a report).

This report contains information which has been gathered during my three months

of industrial attachment with the Plant genetic resource research institute-

bunso.

This includes the activities carried out by the CSIR-Plant genetic resource

research institute, the activities I undertook, experience obtained and personal

inputs.

This also creates a platform for students to understand the relevance of research to

the nation and the concept of research.

Acknowledgements

This Internship programme could not have materialized without acknowledging the

divine protection and guidance of the Almighty God. I would like to thank my

coordinator, Dr. S.K Boateng for the valuable advice and support he has given me

throughout my days. I would also like to thank the teachers who carried me through

various sections of my studies, Nana Otu Darko, Mr. Ben Sakyi, Mr. Small, Mr. E.

Osei Owusu, Ms. Naomi Asamoah Antwi, Dr. Ken Fafa, and Mr. Philip Somevi. My

deepest thanks to the Vice chancellor & PRO vice chancellor of the University of

Energy and natural resource (UENR) Sunyani, as well as the industrial attachment

coordinator Mr. Akoto together with his Teaching Assistants for their massive

support and services, I would also like to commend all lecturers of UENR for their

marvelous works. A big thanks to my co-mates who were also attached to the

PGRRI, David Herman, Ebenezer kontoh and Eugene Aseidu for their wonderful

companionship throughout our stay. Not forgetting my parents Mr. and Mrs. Abrefa.

And to all students of NRM 300.

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Contents

Acknowledgement …………………………………………………………………… i

Preface ………………………………………………………………………………… ii

Executive summary …………………………………………………………………… iii

Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………iv

Contributions to the PGRRI performance ……………………………………………….. v

Identified problem for research within the PGRRI ………………………………………. vi

Conclusion & Recommendation ………………………………………….………………. vii

1. Introduction ……………………………………………………………………… 3 Purpose/ objectives of the industrial attachment ………………………………….. 3

Benefits to Students ……………………………………………………………….. 3

Organization Background …………………………………………………………. 3-6

2. Contributions to the PGRRI performance ………………………………………v

i. Schedule of Activities ………………………………………………………….. 7

PGR of Root and Tubers ……………………………………………………………. 7-11

PGR of Tree crops and arboretum …………………………………………………. 12-14

PGR Acquisition and Management ………………………………………………… 14-18

PGR and Plant Protection …………………………………………………………... 19-26

Introduction to Tissue Culture ……………………………………………………… 27-30

PGR of Legumes and Vegetable ………………………………………………….... 30-32

Nursery establishment and Plant Propagation …………………………………….... 33-34

ii. Lessons learnt ………………………………………………………………..…. 35

iii. Challenges ….……………………………………………………………….….. 35

iv. Recommendations to the PGRRI ………………………………………………. 35

3. Identified problem for research within the PGRRI …………………………… 35

4. Conclusion ………………………………………………………………………... 36

5. Recommendations ……………………………………………………………….…vii

To the industrial attachment programme ……………………………………………. 36

List of Tables

1. Schedule of activities ………………………………………………………………… 7

2. List of seedlings and flowers available at the PGRRI ……………………………….. 5

3. List of cassava medium compounds …………………………………………………. 27

List of Charts

1. Organizational chart of CSIR-PGRRI ………………………………………………… 6

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1. INTRODUCTION

The industrial attachment training is an essential component of the curriculum of the University of

energy and natural resources which forms part of the requirements to the award of bachelor of

science in Natural resource management, Students are required to undergo an industrial attachment

programme at 3rd year during which the students are expected to acquire additional practical

experience to supplement, their programme of study.

This report is the outcome of the three months practical training I had at plant genetics resource

research institute (PRGGI). The duration of the attachment was from 26th January to 29th April.

Work begins from 8:00 am and ends at 5:00 pm each working day.

OBJECTIVES OF THE INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT

Important objectives I would like to achieve at the industrial attachment are as follows;

To help develop self interest in the occupation I have planned to undertake.

To expose me to work methods which are not taught in class and to provide access to

equipment not normally available in the environment of the school.

To provide me with an opportunity to apply knowledge in real work situation thereby closing

the gap between academic work and the actual practice.

I would also want to understand the PGRRI and the relevance of PGRRI to the country.

BENEFITS TO STUDENTS

The industrial attachment seek to offer students a practical translation of the theory they have been

taught. It also promotes a good interrelation between the university and the public institutions,

hence brightening the employment chances of the students at the university. Through this

attachment, I have generated a good interpersonal relationship through my interaction with my

coordinators and colleagues. This has urged me to interact confidently with people irrespective of

the position.

Organization background

The plant Genetic Resource Research Institute (PGRRI) is one of the 13 research institutes under

the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). It originally started as the Plant

Introduction and Exploration in 1964 as a section under the Crops Research Institute. Since then

its name has changed to reflect its activities as Plant Genetic Resources Unit, Plant Genetic

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Resources Centre and fully fledged institute Plant Genetic Resources Research Institute (PGRRI)

in 2005.

MANDATE

The CSIR-PGRRI has the mandate to collect, characterize, evaluate, document, conserve,

distribute and utilize plant genetic resources (PGR) from Ghana and abroad. The PGR are

fundamental to crop improvement programmes but are threatened through the activities of man

and natural hazards.

It is envisaged that the CSIR-PGRRI will endeavor to completely collect the PGR of Ghana and

make the materials available to users in their plant improvement programmes. The institute is

governed by a seven member management board and chaired by chairman with the following

members;

Deputy Director-General of CSIR in-charge of Research and Development (R&D)

The Director of the Institute

The Director of Forestry Research Institute of Ghana (FORIG) as cognate Director.

Two representatives from the private sector and one representative from the public sector.

ADMINISTRATION

The day to day activities at PGRRI are administered by the Director and assisted by 6 Divisional

Heads. The divisions are:

1. Plant Genetic Diversity

2. Genetic Conservation

3. Plant Protection

4. Finance

5. Administration and Commercialization

6. Information

VISION

The vision of CSIR-PGRRI is as follows:

To develop PGRRI into a centre of excellence with improved facilities for short, medium and

long term conservation and to encourage sustainable utilization for wealth creation.

MISSION

PGRRI has the mission to collect and conserve PGR of Ghana and those from abroad to prevent

their extinction.

RESEARCH ACTITIVIES

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The research activities involve: Collection, Characterization, Evaluation, documentation,

conservation, regeneration, distribution and utilization related to legumes, cereals, vegetables,

root and tuber crops, medicinal plants fruit trees, spices, forest species.

SOME ACHIEVEMENTS

A master register of economic plants (excluding Cocoa) in Ghana compiled this is a

reference manual for crops introduced and indigenous in Ghana.

Establishment of black pepper farms in Ghana in collaboration with Ghana Export

Promotion Authority for commercial production and export.

The institute has collected over 10,000 accessions of various crops from all over the

country to forestall their loss/disappearance and are being conserved for the present and

posterity.

Some of the seedlings and flowers available at the PGRRI are listed below:

Seedlings Flowers

Citrus

Avocado pear

Mango

Nutmeg

Coconut

Rambuton

Jackfruit

Breadnut

Jaboticaba

Anona Mauricata

Sweet Berry

Star Apple

Guava

Malay apple

Pawpaw

Black pepper (spice)

Ficus

Lxora

Croton

Butterfly plant

Lady in boat

Rose plant

Bird of paradise

Fern

Finger rose

Odorata

Bleeding heart

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Organizational Chart of CSIR-PGRRI

Management Board

Internal auditor

Deputy Director

Director

Plant Genetic

Diversity Administratio

n division

Finance

Division

Commercializa

tion and info.

Plant

Protection

Plant Genetic

conservation

Agro-

Morphology

section

Molecular

Biology section Purchasing Accounts Stores

Entomology Plants

Pathology

Commercializatio

n section

Library,

Information &

Documentation

Tissue

culture Tree

Crops

Arboretu

m Seed

store

Farm

Management Security Transport Estate Person

nel

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2. Contributions to the PGRRI performance

i. Schedule of activities

Course Responsible Officer(s)

Introduction to PGR activities Jan 26, 2016 Dr. S.K Boateng

PGR of Root and Tubers Jan 27 – Feb 3, 2016 Nana Otu Darko

PGR of Tree crops and

Arboretum

Feb 4-5, 2016 Dr. S.K Boateng

Mr. Ben Sakyi

PGR Acquisition and

Management

Feb 8-12, 2016 Mr. E. Osei Owusu

PGR and Plant Protection Feb 15-26, 2016 Dr. (Mrs.) S. Akrofi

Mr. E. Boama-Duku

Mr. E. Osei Owusu

Introduction to Tissue Culture Feb 29- March 1, 2016 Ms. Matilda Bissah

Ms. Naomi Asamoah Antwi

PGR of Legumes and

Vegetables

April 4- April 15, 2016 Dr. Ken Fafa

Nursery establishment and Plant

Propagation

April 19- 28 2016 Mr. Philip Somevi

Review of Vacation training April 29, 2016 Dr. S.K Boateng

PGR of Root and Tubers

The root and tuber is one of the sections of the PGRRI which deals mainly with the collection

and conservation of varieties of root and tuber crops in Ghana.

The root and tuber section conserves six (6) yam and two (2) cocoyam varieties in Ghana. The

root and tuber helps in conserving varieties of root and tuber crops which are threatened

extinction so that in the future if any disaster such as fire should occur, Ghana would still have

root and tubers for cultivation and consumption.

Before cultivation, I was introduced to certain factors to consider in crop establishment practices;

1. Location of the farm; the region, country, hill or the swampy nature of the land should

be considered when establishing a farm for cultivation. This influences pest infestation,

crop yield, erosion and wind.

2. Climatic condition; Temperature, Rainfall or humidity condition of a particular site

should be considered in crop establishment. Crops that do not need excessive rainfall

should not be grown in areas of heavy rainfall and vice versa, so as crops that requires

low temperature should not be cultivated in an area of high temperatures and vice versa.

3. Nearness of the farm to a market or close to a processing factory; when establishing

crop this factor should also be considered to make the produce readily available to the

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market and save further storage cost. Its saves storage cost and transportation cost as

well.

Also, commercial farms is always advisable to be cited close to a processing factory.

4. Pest prone areas; Areas prone to pest infestations should be carefully checked to avoid

pest invading the crops being established.

These areas should be managed through the application of pesticides prior to cultivation

in prevention of pest infections.

Yam production

I was also introduced to the six (6) yam together with two (2) cocoyam varieties conserved at the

root and tubers section of the PGRRI.

1. The white yam (Dioscorea rotundata)

The white yam is grown on a larger quantities than any other kind of yam in the world. It is

grown in West Africa and remains the predominant kind of yam growing in Africa.

White yam (Dioscorea rotundata)

2. Water yam (Dioscorea alata)

Water yam is grown in all parts of the tropics. It is originated in south East Asia, it was

introduced into West Africa by the 16th century.

Water yam (Dioscorea alata)

3. The yellow yam (Dioscorea cayenensis)

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The yellow yam is originated in West Africa and it is grown very extensively outside the area.

The tuber is fresh and very yellow, the leaves are dark green in colour.

Yellow yam (Dioscorea cayenensis)

4. The trifoliate yam (Disocorea dumetorum)

The trifoliate yam is originated in tropical Africa and cultivated extensively only in West Africa.

It differs from most other kinds of yam, the leaves are trifoliate and hairs on leaves.

Trifoliate yam (Discorea dumetorum)

5. Chinese yam (Discorea esculenta)

Chinese yam is originated in south East Asia. It was first cultivated in china several centuries ago

and today it is extensively grown in south East Asia, the pacific and West Indies. It is new in

Africa and for that matter cultivation is quite limited.

Chinese yam (Dioscorea esculenta)

6. Aerial yam (Dioscorea bulbifera)

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The aerial yam is originated both in Africa and Asia, the plant characteristically produces

numerous tubers which are used for food. It also produces some edible underground tubers.

Tubers are harvested at the tree top.

Aerial yam (Dioscorea bulbifera)

The PGR root and tubers collect and conserve these varieties for sustainability, tubers are

collected or obtained either from farmers or through extensive research.

The PGR root and tubers knowing the type of tuber to plant, and tuber broken dormancy, mounts

are made. After one week of planting, capping is made to prevent excessive heat and erosion.

After sprouting staking is done to expose the massive canopy to full sunlight throughout growth.

Further cultural practices such as wedding and spraying are done where necessary. After 5

months harvesting is done for conservation.

Accession numbers are tied on each tuber based on the type of yam and then weighed.

Harvesting and tying Weighing

Furthermore, I was introduced to Yam miniset technology; the technology is the production of

high seed yams. It is believe that 30% of yam is used to purchase yam sets and these limits yam

farms in Africa and Ghana precisely. For the country to offset these balance there is the need to

train extension officers how to produce yam seeds, the technology involves selection of healthy

mother yam that shows a sign of sprouting indicating that the dormancy period has elapsed.

Cocoyam (Tannia and Taro)

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Finally, I was introduced to the cocoyam production (tannia and taro). In the past years cocoyam

varieties especially the Taro has completely been rare, Taro in recent years which we could

locate and harvest for consumption at mostly swampy areas can no longer be found, through the

PGRRI Taro cocoyam’s are conserved for farmers who are interested in taro cocoyam cultivation

could also have seeds or vegetative parts to improve cocoyam production.

Cocoyam is originated in many part of Africa, the term cocoyam were used to describe the genus

Colocasia and Xanthosoma. Separately Colocasia species are called Taros whiles Xanthosoma

species are called Tannia.

1. Tannia (Xanthosoma sagittifolium)

Tannia consist of Xanthosoma with Xanthosoma sagittifolium being the most important. It was

originated in central and south America, and spread to south East Asia and the pacific islands. It

was introduced in Africa during the 19th centuries much later than Taro. Nigeria, Ghana and

japan is the leading producers of Tannia cocoyam. The cormels are eaten whiles the corms are

planted.

Tannia Cocoyam

2. Taro (Colocasia esculenta)

Taro species are called Colocasia esculenta. Taro is originated in south central Asia from there it

was spread to the pacific islands and later to the Mediterranean islands and finally to West

Africa. Leaves are quite smooth and fleshy than Tannia. The corms are eaten whiles the

cormels are planted.

Taro cocoyam

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PGR of Tree crops and Arboretum

I was introduced on the 4th – 5th February at the tree crops and arboretum by Mr. Ben Sakyi. At

this section I got to know what an arboretum is, functions, the location of the bunso arboretum,

the history about the arboretum, the drainage, soil, climate, surrounding villages, flora and fauna

of the bunso arboretum. I was also introduced to some tree species at the tree crop section and

the arboretum as well.

At the arboretum, I had the opportunity to see the monkey pot tree, the Brazilian nut, the black

pepper (spice) plant, xylopia plant, Aframomum plant, cinnamon tree amongst others. I also had

the opportunity to take an exercise at the arboretum’s gymnasium.

Monkey pot Aframomum pipttadeniastrum africanum

Entrance 210m, 40ft canopy walkway Bamboo Garden

I was also introduced to some plant species at tree crop section such as the nutmeg,

cinnamon, sweet berry, and the Jackfruit.

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Nutmeg Cinnamon Jackfruit

Arboretum is an area where woody plants and animals are conserved for scientific research,

education and recreation.

HISTORY

Since 1900 development started in 1935 by two British agriculturist named; Frank Thompson

and David gullet. After 1946 the management was then headed by the National Research

Council. In 1962 the NRC became the Council for Scientific Research (CSIR). The idea of

ecotourism started around 2003.

FUNCTIONS

The arboretum serves the function of conservation of plant and little of animal species for

scientific research, educational, and recreational activities.

LOCATION

It is located 4km from the Bunso junction on the Bunso-Koforidua road.

DRAINAGE

The area is drained by the Birim River and its tributaries. A stream called Akwaa takes its

sources from the arboretum and meanders through it to join the Birim River.

SOIL

The soils vary from the red clay loams of elevated ground to heavy alluvial soils near the Birim

River.

FLORA

The flora of the arboretum comprises plant species including indigenous and exotic trees. The

natural forest is moist and semi deciduous and has a closed canopy. The reforested area has

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natural plant growth and introduced exotic species from the tropics. Prominent among these

are Lecythis zabucajo (Monkey pot trees) and Bertholletia excelsa (Brazilian nut trees).

Lecythis zabucaja (monkey pot tree)

FAUNA

Among the common birds found are Black Kite, Crowned Hawk-eagle, Grey Kessel, Red-

tailed Buzzard, Laughing Dove, Grey Parrot, Brown-Necked parrot, Broad-billed Roller,

Green Pigeon and West African Goshawk. Also found are small mammals including Squirrels,

Rats and Grass cutters. The arboretum hosts over 300 butterfly species.

LATEST DEVELOPMENT: A 210 meters long, 40 ft. high, 6 platforms and 5 bridges

canopy walkway has been constructed in the hub of the forest.

PGR Acquisition and Management

The PGR acquisition and management is also called the seed store section which is under plant

genetic conservation. The seed store is responsible for conserving orthodox seeds. At this

section, I was introduced to how seeds are collected, processed and conserved.

There are two main types of conservation of seeds namely; ex-situ and in-situ conservation.

Ex-situ conservation is the preservation genetic resources outside their natural habitats.

In-situ conservation is the preservation of genetic resources in their own natural habitats.

Seeds are classified into either orthodox or Recalcitrant, orthodox seeds are seeds which will

survive drying (4-7°c) and/or freezing (-20°c) during ex-situ conservation. Examples of such

seeds are the maize seeds, pepper seeds, okro seeds, the black pepper (spice) seeds, Aframomum

seeds etc. such seeds can be preserved for so many years before being regenerated again, it is

kept under very low condition of -20°c for long term conservation and -8 or -10°c for a short

term conservation.

Recalcitrant seeds known as unorthodox seeds are the seeds that do not survive drying (4-7°c)

and freezing (-20°c) during ex-situ conservation. Examples are avocado, mango, mangosteen,

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lychee, cocoa, rubber tree etc. These seeds are sent immediately after collection to the field to be

regenerated.

The PGR acquisition and management goes through some processes before seeds are conserved.

Before seeds are conserved there should be;

Collection and identification of seeds

Seeds are collected from the wild or from domesticated plants. Seeds are collected using various

ways such as hand poles, shaking of tree, climbing and sometimes are picked at the base of the

parent plant. Physiologically matured seeds are usually selected for conservation at the PGRRI

because immature seeds shows low seed vigor.

Cleaning of seeds

Cleaning is done to remove debris and seeds which are not viable for germination. It is usually

put on a white plain sheet and only clean or viable potential seeds are separated from the debris.

Okro seeds containing debris separating debris from clean seeds

Drying

Orthodox seeds undergo ultra-drying thus drying seeds below relative humidity of the seed using

the oven dry at a temperature of 103°c - 133°c. Seeds can also be dried under the sun to remove

moisture.

In mechanical seed drying, I was introduced to the silica gel and the desiccator method.

Silica gel is heated in a hot oven at a temperature of 103°c till the silica gels turns blue in colour.

The gels are placed in a desiccator together with the seeds with a net separating them. The seeds

on top and the silica gels at the bottom. With some time, the silica gel absorbs moisture from the

seeds turning pinkish in colour indicating it can no longer absorb water, and apparently the seeds

becomes dry.

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Desiccator containing silica gel Dry Oven with silica gel Sun Drying

Germination Test

Germination test is done to know the number of seeds viable for germination or for storage. It is

carried either prior or after storage, seeds are taken out to be tested if it has kept too long (30, 50

years and above) in the refrigerator. When tested below 50% then it is quickly send to field to be

regenerated, if tested above 85% viability then it can be either kept further in the refrigerator or

sow for regeneration.

I was introduced to various seed germination test and soil sterilization methods.

In the seed germination test I was introduced to the between paper test and the on top of paper

test. In the between paper germination test I tested for the germination rate of cowpea which has

been in a cold storage for 20 years and above. And this is how I arrived by my experiment;

Apparatus:

1. Tissue paper 1

2. Tissue paper 2

3. Distilled water

4. Sample Seeds

5. Gloves

6. Forceps

7. Basin

Steps involve:

1. Using forceps I gently arranged 100 seeds of cowpea on one side of the tissue paper.

2. I sprinkled water on the part of the tissue paper containing the seeds.

3. I folded the dried side of the tissue paper on the moist side containing seeds.

4. I sprinkled water on the dried portion. Here the tissue paper becomes completely wet.

5. I folded the tissue paper into smaller shape.

6. I then place a label on it to match the original label taken from the refrigerator.

7. Same method were repeated to tissue 2.

8. I then kept it in an enclosed basin and covered for germination

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Results:

After 4 days of the test, it was revealed that 95% of the cowpea seeds germinated, hence it is

viable for germination or still store for more years.

Seeds on tissue paper Folded tissue with label

Results After 4 days of Test

The second germination test I was introduced to was the on top of paper test; usually with the

on top of paper test, apparatus involve is the petri dish of the base 9cm diameter, filter paper,

sample seeds.

1. I cut a filter paper of 9cm diameter base of the petri dish.

2. I arranged 20 seeds of pepper seeds in the petri dish.

3. I then sprinkle water on the seeds and filter paper.

4. And covered it.

5. I then placed it to a source of light for 18 hours every day till it germinated.

Results:

In the on top paper test, I could see that all the 99% of the seeds germinated due to the presents

of light.

In a case when the seed do not germinate, it’s an indication of whether those particular seeds are

dormant or dead seeds. To determine, simply bring the seeds out and using the forceps press the

seed coat and when found soft indicates a dead seed, and when found still hard meaning it’s a

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dormant seed. And so Hard seed coat needs to be scarified either physically or chemical.

Physical scarification could be Hot water or cold water scarification. It could also be hammering

or by hand cracking.

The seeds are soaked in water to soften the seed coat for easily germination.

Freezing

For conservation, freezing is the final portion of seed storage. The PGRRI has a room containing

refrigerators for short term and long term seed conservation. Seeds are kept under cold condition

of -20°c for long term conservation and -8 to -10°c for short term conservation.

The medium at which the seeds are kept is also very crucial, aluminum foil which is laminated 3

times are used to contain the seeds in the refrigerator. Aluminum foil is tightly sealed which

disallows air and moisture to pass through it, hence the seeds becomes air and moisture free.

Refrigerators Aluminum foil

In the pre-sowing practice, I was introduced to steam sterilization. This method is used purposely

to make pathogens present in the soil inactive or reduce its population.

When seeds are tested to be regenerated, the soil is sterilized using the steam sterilization

method. The method is as follows;

1. A barrel is placed on source of fire.

2. Soil is put in the barrel with water just above the soil.

3. It is then covered with a polythene, a white polythene is mostly recommended.

4. The barrel is left over night, additional fire is added to increase fire and steam intensity.

5. Within 12 hours the soil becomes sterilized and the water is evaporated leaving only the

soil.

6. The soil is then put in a polypots for seedling germination.

The rational behind this is that soil becomes contaminated when exposed to environmental

conditions. Pathogens in the soil affects germination, so soil sterilization is key practice in

reducing pathogens present in the soil.

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Steam sterilization

PGR and Plant Protection

The PGR and Plant Protection is one of the divisions within the PGRRI which is aimed at;

Identification of plant diseases and Plant Protection. The plant protection division consist of the

Pathology section and the entomology section.

Plant pathology section:

The PGRRI pathology section is focus mainly on pathogens affecting plants and ways of

rectifying the menace. Pathogen is a disease causing organism, there are usually three main types

of them namely; Bacterial, Fungi and Virus.

The PGRRI pathology is most emphasized on Bacterial and Fungi infestation.

At this section, I was introduced to some methods of disease control practiced by the pathology

section;

1. Planting of disease resistance crops, some plant varieties are resistance to certain

pathogens and diseases, these varieties are therefore planted instead of those that are

susceptible to diseases and pathogens.

2. Appropriate plant selection, at the PGR plant protection, plant species that are disease

prone are isolated and treated differently before planting.

3. Chemical method, chemicals are usually applied periodically to prevent pathogens and

maintain a healthy plants.

In addition, watering is done as one of the cultural practices to improve plant growth and

development at the nursery site. I was also introduced to how to apply fungicide/pesticides

during this section.

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Watering Spraying

I was introduced to some equipment’s used in sterilization and culturing pathogens.

Autoclave

This equipment has a pressure chamber used to carry out industrial processes requiring elevated

temperature and pressure different to ambient air pressure. The autoclave is used in sterilization.

Dry oven air

This equipment also use dry heat to sterilize.

Incubator

The incubator is used in the plant protection laboratory to grow and maintain microbiological

cultures.

Lamina flow chamber

This equipment drops air which do not allow air from the environment to flow into it, it prevents

contamination to the culture media.

Finally, I was introduced to how to isolate a pathogen in a disease plant using a prepared Potato

Dextrose Agar (PDA), and these are how I went about it;

1. Firstly, I visited a citrus plantation which was diseased.

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Citrus plantation

2. I took a sample of a disease citrus fruit and leaf to the laboratory to be tested.

Disease sample

3. I surfaced sterilized the disease sample using a sodium hypochlorite solution (bleach).

Sodium hypochlorite solution

4. I then poured off the sodium hypochlorite solution and rinsed the sample with a distilled

water.

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Rinsing sample with distilled water

5. I then placed the sample and a prepared potato dextrose agar (PDA) in a lamina flow

chamber to prevent contamination whiles inoculating.

Lamina flow chamber

6. I transferred the sample unto the culture medium using a prepared potato dextrose agar

(PDA).

Transferring sample disease unto the culture medium

PDA is the medium on which pathogens grow. In a case when PDA is not already prepared you

can prepare using;

200g of Irish potato

20g of dextrose sugar

20g of agar (solidifying agent)

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Add 1 litre of distilled water

Sterilized

PDA with a growing fungi

7. I then placed it in an incubator for 5 days. Incubator provides a favorable condition for

microbial growth.

Incubator

8. After 5 days I placed the cultured sample under light condition till it sprouted.

Several cultured samples under light

9. Then I finally observed the matured fungi on a microscope.

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Observation

Observations:

A pale brown to olive brown, 25-60 x 3-3.5 µm, straight and some flexuous, individual

conidiophores arising directly from substrate forming a bushy heads consisting of 6 large

catenate conidia chains were observed.

How is looked like in the microscope

Results:

The results showed that the pathogen is Alternaria alternata.

Entomology section:

I then moved on to the entomology section of plant protection; the entomology section of the

PGRRI is aimed at evaluation of insect pest. Insects are the most successful group of animals

comprising of three segments; the head, thorax and the abdomen. Insects becomes pest due to it

destructive nature.

The PGRRI entomology section objectives are as follows;

1. Entomology of PGRRI deals with the protection of plant genetic resources (PGR) from

pest infestation.

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2. Evaluation of plant genetic resources (PGR) activities.

3. Evaluation of PGR for resistance or tolerant genes, thus identification of sources of

resistance and identification of resistance mechanisms.

Activities of entomology section of PGR conservation. The plant genetic resource research

institute (PGRRI) research into;

1. The life cycle and behavior of insect pest on germplasm.

2. Ecological relationship of pest with different germplasm/wild host plants and the

importance of predators and parasitoids in exerting natural control on these pest.

3. Role of a particular pest as a vectors of plant diseases.

4. Evaluation of germplasm against insect pest (determination of variations in susceptibility

of different assertions to infestation.

5. Identification of resistance or tolerant assertions for crop improvement.

Insects can be grouped into two namely; farmer’s friend (feeds on other insects acting as

biocontrol) and farmer’s enemy’s (those that cause destruction). Insects are grouped according

to its mouth parts as; piercing and sucking, Boring and chewing, Bitting and chewing, piercing

and oviposition.

Insects significantly serves as Pollinators (contributing to pollination), Predators (serves as

biocontrol agents), Nutrient cycling insects (contribute to decomposition) and scientific research

insects.

The PGRRI entomology section emphasized on protection of plant genetic resources against pest

(IPM).

Pest is any organism causing harm or damage to man or plant, his crops or possession even if

causing annoyance is qualified to be pest.

Basically there are three pest control methods namely; Physical, Biological and chemical

methods. The PGRRI employs chemical and biological methods.

Multiplication of suitable habitats, Lost of competing species, Change of host, are the origins and

developments of pest in a designated area. Factors regulating population of insect are Mortality,

Emigration (decrease) and Natality, Immigration (increase).

Insects are categorized into major, minor, potential and secondary pest. Major pest are those that

causes significant damage, minor pest usually do not cause any significant damage to crop,

potential pest are minor pest that can become a major pest when the environment is altered and

secondary pest finds alternative host or shelter when the environment is altered.

I was also introduced to decision making for pest control. Generally, protection is geared towards

crop plant population rather than the individual plants, consequently low levels of pest

infestations are acceptable provided damage levels are low. Factors considered in decision

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making are choice of method, degree of risk, nature of pest complex, nature of the crop,

agricultural system, economic factors and ecological factors.

Exclusion, avoidance, protection are practiced by the PGRRI In pest controlling methods,

Eradication method of pest control is usually not the best and difficult to employ as it involves

total elimination of pest from an area.

Some cultural practices in pest management are as follows;

1. Irrigation- organism such as the white fly could be eliminated from the field by irrigation.

2. Thinning- removal of weak plants reduces overcrowding.

3. Pruning- removal of unwanted or overgrown parts allows good ventilation.

4. Weeding- weeding destroys pest host plants.

Finally, I was introduced to some application methods of pesticides.

1. Spraying droplets with water, oil or air as the diluent.

2. Spreading the compound absorbed on or impregnated into an inlet solid carrier (granules

and dust).

3. Burning the compound to create a pesticide smoke which will penetrate all parts of a

more or less enclosed space.

Application of insecticides generally poison either the nervous or respiratory system. Good

pesticides practice is essential in quantifying good amount of chemicals to be use on a particular

crop.

1. Management of pest should be geared towards lowering the pest population below the

density at which the pest is considered an economic pest.

2. Chemical or synthetic pesticides should only be used when they are absolutely necessary.

3. Product label must be read, recommended date, expiry date and pre-harvest interval.

Challenges associated with pesticide use are;

1. Development of resistance

2. Environmental degradation

3. Food safety issues.

I was also introduced to some precautions and protective equipment when applying pesticides on

the field. Protective equipment’s such as Respirator, Gloves, Goggles, safety booth and overall

coats should be used when spraying. After spraying it is always not advisable to leave the

chemical containers on the field since animals or even man can use as a drinking material. Also

containers should be washed 3-4 times and put in a safe place to prevent reach of man. Labels

should be Re-labelled when removed.

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Introduction to Tissue culture

The tissue culture section of the PGRRI is basically responsible for growing plant under aseptic

condition on an artificial medium.

Seeds that are recalcitrant and cannot be conserved under drying (4-7°c) or freezing (-20°c)

condition. The tissue culture backups the field gene bank.

The medium contains various compounds and hormones which provides conditions suitable for

plant tissue growth.

At this section I was introduced to medium preparation, it is essential at this point to know how

medium is prepared in other to initiate plant tissue growth.

Compounds such as NH₄NO₃, KNO₃, CaCL₂.2H₂O, KH₂PO₄, H₂BO₃, MgSO₄.7H₂O CuSO₄.5H₂O, Na₂EDTA.5H₂O, KI, VITAMINS, AGAR (g/l) are used in respective of their quantities depending on the type of medium performed and the quantity of medium in Litres you want to perform. Hormones such as Kinetin, NAA, and BAP are also added to regulate growth.

Depending on the type of plant to be cultured, there are therefore different types of media; cassava medium, yam medium, hormone free media, cocoyam medium etc.

After medium is prepared, they are then poured into test tubes or vessels and sterilized (reduce contamination) with the autoclave for 20 minutes. After which, plant tissues are sterilized with fungicide for an hour duration, a 70% ethanol and 10% bleach, and then inoculate. After inoculation the process is carried into a growth room of a room temperature of 18°c at night and 22-23°c during day time. The cultures are also provided with a regulatory light condition to enhance sprouting, lights automatically is switched on during the day and goes off at night.

At this section, I had the opportunity to learn how to grow a cassava tissue on a cassava medium.

This is how I went by it;

First and foremost, I prepared a cassava medium using the following compounds with their

required quantities (ml/l).

Code Compound ml/l

Stock A

Stock B

Stock C

Stock D

Stock E

Stock F1

Stock F2

Stock G

Stock H

NH4NO3

KNO3

CaCl2.2H2O

KH2PO4

CaCl2.6H2O

MgSO4.2H2O

MnSO4.H2O

Na2EDTA.2H2O

KI

40ml

40ml

10ml

10ml

10ml

10ml

10ml

40ml

10ml

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Vitamins

Sucrose

Agar

BAP

NAA

PH

20ml

60g

16g

10ml

2ml

5.7

Cassava medium Cassava medium in test tubes

Furthermore, I poured the medium into test tubes for autoclave sterilization for 20 minutes.

Autoclave sterilization

1. I visited the field to pick cassava stalks for culture.

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2. I Cut the plant material into smaller pieces and removed the unwanted portions (the bud

is the portion needed) and washed with tap water.

Cutting plant materials washing

3. Then I sterilized plant tissues with fungicide for 1 hour and rinsed it off.

Sterilization

4. I carried the process into the lamina flow chamber and sterilized plant material with a

70% ethanol and a 10% bleach to reduce contamination.

5. I then carried on by inoculating plant tissues unto the cassava media, labelled and test

tube tightly sealed to avoid air entry.

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Inoculation Test tubes labelled and tightly sealed

6. Finally I carried the process into the Growth Room. The growth room has a room

temperature of 18°c at night, 22-23°c during the day and a regulatory light condition of

16hrs off and 8hrs on.

Growth Room

7. This is how after 14 days of experiment cassava tissue grew on the media.

PGR of Legumes and Vegetables

The legume and Vegetable section of the PGRRI develops strategies to conserve leguminous and

vegetable crops across the country. Leguminous crops such as cowpea, soybeans, peanut and

alfalfa. Also vegetable crops such as the pepper, tomato, cabbage, garlic, onion, lettuce,

cucumber and garden eggs.

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PGRRI legume and vegetable section also develops strategies to improve leguminous and

vegetable crop varieties by producing resistant varieties to certain diseases through experiment.

The legume and vegetable section are also into Taro (Cocoyam) conservation, here I was

introduced to Taro seeds and how Taro seeds are nursed until transplanting.

First and foremost, through this section I got to know how taro seeds looks like, taro seeds looks

very tiny in size like that of an ant.

Taro seeds

1. After seeds are harvested, polypots are filled with soil and placed in a half filled basin

containing water in a wooden humidity chamber. Soil takes up water from the basin and

keep it moist through capillary action.

2. The seeds are then spread on the polypots in the humidity box for sprouting, sprouting

takes about 14 days. Humidity box should be transparent to allow an easy observation of

seedlings.

Wooden Humidity chamber

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3. After germination the seedlings are transferred unto the Greenhouse to further seedling

growth, here the seedlings are watered daily.

Greenhouse seedlings in polypots

4. When seedlings show enough growth (after 7 days) and ready to be transplanted, the taro

seedlings are transplanted unto a different polypots in an open environment to observe a

photoperiod.

5. The seedlings are then finally transferred unto a permanent nursery field to be grown into

a matured seedlings. Seedlings are arranged in blocks by accessions.

6. After two months seedlings becomes fully matured and ready to be transplanted unto the

field to be regenerated.

Matured seedlings

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Nursery establishment and Plant Propagation

PGRRI nursery establishment and plant propagation has the aim of raising plant seedlings for the

purpose of commercialization, characterization and conservation. The most important parameters

of every nursery establishment are; Soil, Water and seedlings.

This section has conserved over 40 plant seedlings of different varieties, plants which are being

raised and conserved are; Noni, Citrus, Avocado pear, Mango, Nutmeg, Coconut, Rambuton,

Jackfruit, Breadnut, Breadfruit, Jaboticaba, Anona Mauricata, Sweet Berry, Star Apple, Guava,

Malay apple, Pawpaw, Black pepper (spice), Cinnamon etc.

This section also raise and conserve ornamental plants/ flowers such as; Ficus, Lxora, Croton,

Butterfly plant, Lady in boat, Rose plant, Bird of paradise, Fern, Finger rose, Odorata, Bleeding

heart, Royal palm etc.

At this section, I was introduced to some nursery practices which is done to keep seedlings

healthy, improve seedling growth and medium for raising seedlings.

1. Picking- Picking is one of the most important nursery practices in every place you find

yourself, picking is done to remove unwanted plants or weeds found within the polypots,

picking is essential in preventing competition between seedlings and weeds. Picking

ensures proper ventilation for seedlings, seedlings grow well when picking is done.

Picking

2. Pruning- pruning is also a very important factor in nursery management which I

practiced, pruning is done to remove dead or unwanted branches from a healthy plant and

proper ventilation. In the case of orange citrus plant pruning is essential to prevent plant

form turning into a different citrus plant variety such as lemon at the initial stage.

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Pruning

3. Polypots filling- I had the opportunity in filling 200 polypots during my two weeks

lessons with the Nursery establishment and plant propagation section of the PGRRI.

Polypots containing soil are the media through which seedlings are nursed.

4. Budding- I also had the opportunity to learn how to bud, budding is the process of

joining two vegetative parts of plant together to make a single plant. Budding brings

about new varieties of plants from the same family.

In budding principles, the parent plant used in budding should be more than 10 years old, a

branch is taken from the parent plant of which the bud is removed and joined with a younger

plant, a younger plant should be used in the budding process, a white polythene material is

used to tie the vegetative parts.

Budding

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ii. Lessons learnt

I have had the opportunity to apply knowledge in real work, exposing me to work

methods not taught in school.

I have had access to technological equipment's and how to operate them.

How to improve good work ethics.

Have had the privilege to understand the PGRRI and contribution to the nation and the

need to promote PGRRI.

How germplasm are conserved.

Have had the knowledge in plant protection and disease identification.

I have also had knowledge in budding and nursery practices.

iii. Challenges

Frequent power outages.

Equipment's available cannot accommodate number of students at a time.

No internet access.

Maintenance.

Decline in germplasm.

Contamination.

iv. Recommendations to the organization

In my recommendations I suggest that;

Government should employ more people into the institute to facilitate work.

Government should provide more technological equipment's to ensure a smooth and easy

work by the PGRRI.

As a research institution, Provision of internet access is very crucial in every aspect.

I recommend a frequent standby power source for the institution to run on.

I also recommend that, more infrastructure should be built to expand plant genetic

resource conservation (PGR) efforts.

Effort on maintenance culture should be a priority.

3. Identified problem for research within the organization

The PGRRI is a research institute but within the organization, there are problems there is the

need to be researched on and find solution to them.

During my one (1) month lesson at the tissue culture, I realized that contamination is the major

setback during in-vitro conservation as a results of sterilization methods applied.

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4. Conclusion

The industrial attachment training is an essential component of the curriculum of the University

of Energy and Natural Resources which forms part of the requirements to the award of Bachelor

of Science in Natural Resource Management. The industrial attachment seek to offer students a

practical translation of the theory they have been taught. The attachment has made me gain some

practical knowledge and experiences in my field of study (BSc .Natural Resources

Management). The Plant Genetic Resources Research Institute (PGRRI) is one of the 13 research

institutes under the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). PGRRI has the

mandate to collect, characterize, evaluate, document, conserve, distribute and utilize Plant

Genetic Resources (PGR) from Ghana and abroad.

5. Recommendations (to the industrial attachment programme)

The School Authority must provide an arranged accommodation and seek to the welfare

of the students prior and after students embarking on the industrial attachment.

The industrial attachment is an essential component of which its needs to be encouraged

and make compulsory for every student even years to come.

Student interest to a particular organization or placement must be taken into

consideration.