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Harnessing genetic variability for root and shoot morpho-physiological traits contributing to drought stress tolerance in African spider plant gynandropsis gynandra (L) briq accession..
(2023) Chatara, Tinashe.; Sibiya, Julia.; Musvosvi, Cousin.
African spider plant (Gynandropsis gyanandra (L.) Briq.) is a promising leafy vegetable, which
is an important source of zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins. It forms one of the
strategic crops that are being used to improve the resilience of local communities to drought.
These crops, often referred to as underutilized, forgotten, neglected or orphan crops are adapted
to the local environment and have potential to address climate change induced abiotic stresses
such as drought. Drought is major biotic stress threatening the sustainability of agriculture and
food security, especially in SSA and leads to shortened cropping seasons with significant yield
reductions. This study was conducted to i) assess the variation of morpho-physiological and
biochemical traits of Gynandropsis gynandra in response to drought stress, ii) estimate the
heritability and variance components for morphological and physiological traits in
Gynandropsis gynandra under drought stress and iii) assess drought indices together with root
traits to identify tolerant African spider plant (Gynandropsis gynandra (L.) Briq.) genotypes.
In the first experiment, 18 African spider plant accessions were evaluated in the tunnels at the
University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg Campus, South Africa under drought-stressed
and non-stressed conditions using a split-split plot design with four replications across three
water regimes: severe drought (30% field capacity), intermediate drought (50% field capacity),
and well-watered (100% field capacity). The following morpho-physiological and biochemical
traits were recorded; days to 50% flowering (Fl), plant height (Ph), leaf length (Ll), leaf width
(Lw), stem diameter (Sd), chlorophyll content (Spad), relative water content (Rwc), net
photosynthesis (Photo), transpiration rate (Trans), stomatal conductance (Cond), proline
content (Pro), number of leaves per plant (Nl) and leaf yield (Ly). Data were subjected to the
following statistical analysis: analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson's correlation coefficient,
principal component analysis (PCA), and cluster analysis. Proline content rose significantly
under stress but was inversely associated with agronomic traits under both optimal and waterlimited
conditions. Two accessions with high leaf yield under drought stress and beneficial
adaptive traits were identified for further use in breeding for drought tolerance in the crop
species.
The second experiment investigated variance components, heritability and path coefficient
analysis of yield and yield-related traits in the 18 spider plant accessions. A randomized
complete block design (RCBD) experiment was carried out with four replications across three
water regimes: severe drought (30% field capacity), intermediate drought (50% field capacity),
and well-watered (100% field capacity). The genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) ranged
from 0.10 % (relative water content) to 46.86 % (leaf yield) under well-watered conditions,
0.11% (relative water content) to 54.42 % (leaf yield) under mild stress conditions, and from
0.00% (stomatal conductance) to 74.22% (leaf yield) under severe stress. The phenotypic
coefficient of variation (PCV) ranged from 0.10% (relative water content) to 46.91% (leaf
yield) under well-watered conditions, 0.11 from 0.10 % (relative water content) to 46.86 %
(leaf yield) for mild stress and 0.00% (stomatal conductance) to 74.34% (leaf yield) severe
stress. Under drought stress conditions, the experiment showed a high to moderate heritability
estimate along with a high to moderate genetic advance for the number of leaves, leaf width,
plant height, and stem diameter, indicating that these attributes are governed by additive gene
action. The number of leaves per plant, plant height, days to 50% flowering, relative water
content, net photosynthesis and leaf length were identified as target traits that could be used to
improve spider plant leaf yield under drought-stressed conditions.
In the third experiment, the same African spider plant accessions were evaluated to compare
changes in root traits under intense drought stress conditions and identify drought-tolerance
indices that can be utilized in selecting African spider plant genotypes. The following six
drought tolerance indices were evaluated: stress susceptibility index (SSI), yield index (YI),
stress tolerance index (STI), geometric mean of productivity (GMP), stress tolerance (TOL),
and mean productivity (MP). Six root traits including: total root length (TRL), total root volume
(TRV), root dry weight (RDW), root: shoot ratio (RR), total root area (TRA), and average root
diameter (ARD) were recorded as well as leaf yield (Ly). The experiments were laid out in a
randomized complete block design with three replications and two water regimes treatments
namely non-stressed and drought stressed conditions. The ANOVA showed that genotypes
varied in leaf yield, but non-significant values were observed for root traits. Five drought
tolerance indices namely TOL, GMP, STI, MP, and YI, were discovered to be effective in
selecting stress-tolerant genotypes. Root: shoot ratio was identified as a useful trait in the
selection of tolerant genotypes. Overall, the study managed to capture and identify genotypes
that can be used for future breeding programs for drought stress. Lastly, root traits together
with stress indices that can be utilized in selecting drought-tolerant African spider plant
genotypes were identified.
Investigating the potential impact of autonomous vehicles, a KwaZulu-Natal civil engineer’s perspective.
(2023) Chetty, Kyle.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.
This dissertation paper examines the potential impact of autonomous vehicles from the perspective of fifteen civil engineers based in KwaZulu-Natal. With the advent of this groundbreaking autonomous vehicle technology, it is crucial to assess its implications on various
aspects of transportation systems and infrastructure development. The study examines the potential benefits and challenges of adopting autonomous vehicles, including their impact on traffic congestion, road safety, and environmental sustainability. Autonomous vehicles are still in the research and development phase, but several influential stakeholders are already establishing partnerships to strengthen their position in future transportation markets. The invention of automobiles has shaped our society, influencing how we commute, where we live, and how we build our cities and infrastructure. While automotive vehicles offer transportation freedom and contribute to economic growth, they also pose sustainability challenges. Issues like safety, environmental impact, traffic congestion, and time spent on operation highlight the need for more sustainable transportation solutions. Autonomous vehicles can sense their environments to perform at least some aspects of safety-critical control (like steering, throttling, or braking) without direct human
input. This dissertation aims to develop a strong foundation for anticipating the potential impacts of vehicle automation advancements in South Africa. User acceptance of autonomous vehicles is a crucial concern in the transportation industry. It's vital not to underestimate their potential impact and implications. These vehicles have the capacity to make a significant positive global impact, making them valuable assets for governments and automotive industries alike. The study will utilize a qualitative research approach involving a sample of fifteen (15) civil engineers employed in the road infrastructure sector within the KwaZulu-Natal region. This research will provide valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers, engineers, and stakeholders involved in the future integration of autonomous vehicles in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond through a comprehensive review of existing literature and expert interviews. The study suggests future research should compare regions in South Africa, use quantitative methods, track long-term impacts, collaborate
across disciplines, study public perceptions, examine legal frameworks, assess environmental impacts, monitor technological advancements, analyze economic implications, and engage local communities. The study concludes that autonomous vehicles offer significant potential for revolutionizing transportation in South Africa. They promise improved efficiency, enhanced safety
features, and various societal impacts, including changes in urban planning and job creation. Despite initial costs, long-term benefits such as reduced accidents and increased efficiency outweigh them.
A study into prospective changes in consumer behaviour and buying patterns of graduate millennials due to COVID 19 in South Africa.
(2021) Lakman, Ushir.; Pelser, Theunis Gert.
The purpose this study is to determine the prospective changes in consumer behaviour and buying patterns of graduate millennials post COVID 19 in South Africa. To this end, a quantitative research project has been undertaken. Primary data was collected via a survey.
Several theories were discussed such as consumer behaviour models, the buy decision process and dynamic consumer journey to gain a better understanding of the research that was conducted. Additionally, technology adoption models such as the TRA, TPB, TAM, ETAM and in particular MOCA is discusses as the study is seeking to determine behavioural movement toward online purchasing because of the pandemic. Research was conducted on the pandemic as well as the economy of South Africa as these are important consideration when conducting a study on consumer behaviour. This study seeks to contribute to the existing knowledge on technology adoption and
consumer behaviour, particularly to determine whether the switch to online purchases during the pandemic is a permanent development or just as a result of consumers being forced to due to the pandemic. These findings may prove valuable to retailers and developers. It could provide a new lens with which to inform their marketing decision as well as development plans for the future.
The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on female leaders in the School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal.
(2023) Ndawonde , Mandisa.; Proches, Cecile Naomi Gerwel.; Ramklass, Serela Samita.
The coronavirus pandemic has altered the working experience interface in higher educational institutions, by redirecting how tasks are completed and how individuals interact with one another. This study aimed to determine the challenges faced by female leaders in the School of Clinical Medicine (SCM) at the University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) during the coronavirus pandemic. The study explored the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on female leaders in the SCM at UKZN and mechanisms implemented to facilitate growth and maintain function. This qualitative study used purposive sampling to identify nine female leaders from the School of Management Committee (MANCO) to participate voluntarily. Participants included the Academic Leader of Teaching and Learning and heads of various disciplines within the school. Nine female leaders in the SCM were interviewed individually using the Zoom platform to determine the challenges they experienced in their role as academic and/or clinical heads of departments during the coronavirus pandemic. The study was motivated by the absence of prior studies that reported challenges experienced by female leaders within the SCM. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The themes identified explained their challenges and impact on female leaders within the SCM. One of the reported challenges faced by the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) was the management of multiple programs. With various courses and programs running concurrently, it became difficult to allocate resources effectively. This led to issues such as inadequate staff for teaching and learning. The insufficient number of qualified staff members posed a significant challenge for UKZN. Due to resource constraints, there were not enough consultants available to meet the demands of all the programs. This resulted in larger class sizes and limited individual attention for students. Another challenge highlighted in the report was the contradictory staff policies between UKZN and the Department of Health (DOH). These conflicting policies created confusion among staff members regarding their roles, responsibilities, and reporting structures. It hindered effective collaboration between different departments within UKZN and with external healthcare institutions. The study highlighted the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on female leaders through challenges experienced. A discussion of the various changes that took place in teaching and learning is also included.
Investigating the utilization of indigenous forestry as a pathway for commercial forestry, community upliftment and land restoration.
(2024) Mathenjwa, Kuhlekonke Khulani.; Mbili, Nokwazi Carol.; Burgdorf, Richard.; Laing, Mark Delmege.; Sardeshpande, Mallika.
Forests play a vital role in sustaining ecological balance and providing essential resources for
human well-being. In South Africa, forestry has predominantly relied on non-indigenous tree
species, leading to limited natural forests and an increasing dependence on commercial forest
plantations. These plantations are mainly made up of commercial exotic monocultures
constituting pine, wattle, and eucalyptus species. Some of these exotic species tend to colonize
the natural environments of local indigenous species and grasslands where they ultimately alter
the soil and water conditions to outcompete local species. In addition, due to their greater
growth forms than indigenous tree species, they alter the structure of natural vegetation which
negatively impacts nutrient cycles and water availability. As a result, the need to explore
alternative approaches in forestry that prioritize indigenous tree species has become evident.
While indigenous commercial forestry is practiced globally, South Africa has untapped
potential due to the limited number of indigenous tree plantations in the country. To explore
the use of indigenous trees, the main aim of the project was to investigate the use of indigenous
trees for commercial forestry, community development, as well as land restoration by assessing
and evaluating the growth and survival of indigenous species through the application of
propagation methods and the incorporation of plant growth-promoting fungus Trichoderma
asperellum (Eco-T). This was followed by assessing ecological benefits of indigenous trees
such as biodiversity conservation, soil nutrient analysis, and evaluating cost-effective methods
and market potential for indigenous tree propagation, as well as the recovery of trees in
anthropogenic soils. This aim was firstly achieved by assessing the feasibility and potential of
indigenous forestry in South Africa through a literature search and then further reported on
indigenous tree species' importance and utilization along with their associated resources.
Subsequently, this research investigated the utilization of indigenous tree species in South
Africa, particularly within three peri-urban communities of the eThekwini municipality,
KwaZulu-Natal. The first phase of sampling followed snowballing sampling strategy through
assistance from local authorities (N=29), and a questionnaire was administered at one of the
focus group discussions (N=10). The second phase of sampling used purposive sampling
strategy to identify interviewees (N=10). Ethnobotanical data was collected and a total of 21
indigenous tree species were identified and reported across the three communities, emphasizing
the utilization patterns and preferences of local species. Amongst the reported species, 12
species were utilized in either all three or two communities. Across all three sites, four
indigenous tree species emerged as the most commonly utilized species, notably, Sclerocarya
birrea, Prunas africana, Trichilia emetica and Ficus sur, accounting for 90% of participants
(n=20). Fruits and medicinal products derived from bark and leaves were the most commonly
utilized resource products from indigenous trees, constituting 60% of overall usage by
participants. These findings highlighted that indigenous tree species with multiple uses were
commonly utilized more than those species with one use, which elucidates the commercial
value and economic potential of those. Treepreneurs emerged as pivotal components in this
study that showcased profound knowledge and commitment to indigenous tree propagation and
cultivation, expressing a clear preference for indigenous species over alien invasive plants.
Hence, understanding the perspectives and needs of the local community is essential for the
successful implementation of indigenous commercial forestry.
The growth of indigenous tree species under field and greenhouse conditions was assessed. A
total of five indigenous tree species namely Trichilia emetica, Harpephyllum caffrum,
Sclerocarya birrea, Ficus sur and Canthium inerme were selected for this study based on the
preliminary findings of the ethnobotanical survey. Tree seedling growth and survival were the
important parameters evaluated in this study to investigate the impact of Trichoderma
asperellum (Eco-T) on the growth of indigenous tree species. Noteworthy results obtained from
the field growth establishment trial include the highest survival rate H. caffrum and the fastest
growth in F. sur, accounting for 100% and 33.13 cm, respectively. However, the application of
Trichoderma treatment did not have any significant impact on the growth and survival of the
indigenous tree species. These findings lay a great foundation for the cultivation, survival, and
growth of indigenous tree species under field conditions.
Greenhouse cultivation of indigenous tree species was conducted using anthropogenic soils
from degraded lands. Here, the growth forms of indigenous tree species compared to the exotic
species Eucalyptus grandis were investigated. The application of Eco-T as a treatment was also
examined on the survival and growth of the seedlings. Indigenous tree seedlings exhibited a
high survival percentage except for S. birrea in both Eco-T treated and untreated samples,
accounting for 67 and 92%, respectively. Notably, the overall highest change in growth of
height was observed in seedlings of F. sur with 48.8 cm but not as high as that of the control
sample accounting for 106.16 cm. However, the treatment did not have any significant impact
on the growth and survival of indigenous tree species. These results highlight the potential
expressed by indigenous tree species especially F. sur under field and greenhouse conditions,
in forestry and land restoration. They further emphasize the need for the development of
specific indigenous tree species of commercial and ecological value.
Furthermore, this study investigated the effect of different rooting hormones in the growth of
different indigenous tree species from stem cuttings and then assessed the feasibility of
propagating indigenous tree species using cuttings. In this study, four treatments namely
Seradix, Dip n Grow, Eco-T and control were tested on three cutting types of the five
indigenous tree species. All treatments showed no significant impact on the survival and growth
of the species. At the end of the growing period, only one out of five species had survived,
sprouted and rooted, accounting for 16% of F. sur. High mortality was observed at the end of
the growing period (12 weeks) and can be accounted by various factors such as oversaturation
on growing medium, temperature, and moisture. The findings revealed to yield great
propagation success, compatibility of rooting hormones, type of species and cutting type must
be taken into consideration. The findings further reveal the slight feasibility of propagating
indigenous tree species from stem cutting, but also express great potential for F. sur. Hence,
more research and development are needed to explore the potential of F. sur as well as other
important indigenous tree species that can add value in forestry and be utilized for commercial
purposes.
Lastly, this study could provide valuable information for forestry managers, researchers, and
policy makers to support the conservation and sustainable management of indigenous tree
species. Overall, it can serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives and can be applied in various
contexts advocating for a more inclusive, ecologically sound, and sustainable approach in the
forestry sector.