ALSE publishes original research in agricultural, horticultural and animal sciences, food sciences, veterinary medicine, and environmental management, addressing applied and interdisciplinary aspects of life sciences.
The journal operates a rigorous peer-review process.
No article processing or publication fees are charged.
Update: The journal has updated its editorial policies in line with the latest COPE recommendations (2026), reinforcing transparency, authorship accountability, peer review integrity, and the responsible use of AI in scholarly publishing.
Latest Articles
EUDR in Romania: transfer of good practices to agriculture from the forest sector
Gabriel-Iustinian Saveliev, Mirela Relenschi, Bogdan Buliga and Maria Chelaru (Răduc)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591209
Article preview: As the EU Deforestation Regulation reshapes agricultural supply chains, this study explores how proven forestry practices can support its implementation. Drawing on Romania and international experience, it highlights practical pathways for traceability, digital governance and due diligence.
Evaluation of the effect of a seaweed-based biostimulant on germination and biochemical quality of the species Momordica charantia
Ștefănica Ostaci, Alina Elena Marta and Carmenica Doina Jităreanu
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591208
Article preview: Seaweed-based biostimulants can boost crop establishment and nutritional quality. The authors of the study show that Algevit accelerated seed germination and favoured the accumulation of β-carotene, phenolic compounds and soluble proteins in , with genotype-dependent responses. The significant increase in provitamin A content supports the potential of natural biostimulants to enhance the functional and nutraceutical value of this emerging crop.
Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used in the management of peptic ulcer disease in Igabi Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Oluyinka Christopher Ariyo
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591207
Article preview: Traditional knowledge can help to identify new treatments for peptic ulcer disease. This study reveals 22 medicinal plant species used in northern Nigeria, highlights the most valued remedies, and points to promising natural sources of future gastroprotective compounds.
Entomological and epidemiological assessment of Glossina species in relation to the prevalence of trypanosomiasis in selected area councils of Abuja
Wintola Haulatu Umaru, Ahmad Rufai Musa, Okpanachi Martin Abdubala, Amana Gabriel Unekwu, Sabdat Unoiza Umar, Olubiyo Comfort Kehinde, Olubiyo Gloria Taiye and Ogbe Kingsley Unekwu
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591206
Article preview: Effective control of trypanosomiasis across sub-Saharan Africa depends on understanding where and when tsetse flies pose the greatest threat. This study reveals striking variations in vector abundance and infection prevalence, highlighting priority areas for surveillance and targeted intervention.
Varietal resistance of soybean to Callosobruchus maculatus and protection of the soybean seeds using Gnidia kraussiana root extracts
Daniel Kosini, Elias N. Nukenine, Georges Tchindebe and Taimanga
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591205
Article preview: How can soybean seeds be protected against Callosobruchus maculatus during storage? This study identified soybean varieties with stable resistance and showed that Gnidia kraussiana root extracts can almost completely inhibit beetle development, offering a promising eco-friendly approach to seed protection.
Plant diversity and conservation concerns in the forest–savannah transition zone of Central Cameroon
Tsopmejio Temfack, Ingrid, Cédric Chimi Djomo, Amandine Flore Ntomen Yonkeu, Hubert Kpoumie Mounmemi, Aurélien Richy Nkouankam Tchayep, Armel Lekeufack, Guylène Ngoukwa, Victoire Divine Kamga Wanang and Louis Zapfack
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591204
Article preview: Hidden within Central Cameroon’s forest–savannah transition zone, the Minta Communal Forest hosts an unexpectedly rich flora of 173 plant species, including 13 threatened trees and a rare endemic species. The findings reveal both the ecological value and the growing conservation urgency of these poorly documented landscapes.
Long-term evaluation of biomass and tropane alkaloid biosynthesis in Datura hairy root cultures elicited with AgNO3
Asma Moussous, Walid Moussous and Lakhdar Khelifi
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591203
Article preview: A five-year evaluation of Datura hairy root cultures demonstrates their sustained capacity for biomass production and tropane alkaloid biosynthesis. The findings also identify AgNO₃ elicitation as a promising strategy for enhancing hyoscyamine and scopolamine production, supporting the sustainable biotechnological production of valuable medicinal compounds.
Influence of cleaning cut timing and nitrogen application on Andropogon gayanus seed yield in Western Ethiopia
Kedija Ahmed Seid, Diribi Mijena Jibat and Habtamu Alebachew Damtew
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591202
Article preview: The influence of nitrogen fertilisation and cleaning cut timing on the seed yield and germination performance of Andropogon gayanus was evaluated under Western Ethiopian conditions. The findings highlight the role of agronomic management practices in supporting improved forage seed production in similar agroecological environments.
Comparative assessment of true potato seed-derived genotypes under controlled conditions
Mihaela Cioloca, Carmen Liliana Bădărău, Andreea-Marinela Tican, Nina Bărăscu and Monica Popa
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591201
Article preview: True potato seed (TPS) is emerging as a promising solution for crop producers even in climatic conditions less favourable. The study evaluates six TPS-derived genotypes, highlighting clear differences in yield and tuber size and underscoring their potential to support conventional seed systems.
Cover story
Cities can become ecosystems
Urban environments are often perceived as biologically simplified spaces shaped by infrastructure and human activity. Yet trees and managed green spaces within cities can restore essential ecological functions, sustaining biodiversity, regulating microclimates, and reconnecting fragmented habitats. When woody vegetation is integrated into the urban fabric, cities begin to function not only as built systems, but as living ecosystems.
Based on empirical data generated at the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, urban and institutional green areas were found to store over 220 tons of carbon per hectare, directly contributing to the reduction of the urban carbon footprint. These field-based results demonstrate that effective climate change mitigation can be achieved within developed landscapes through well-managed urban vegetation.
By linking biodiversity conservation with carbon sequestration, urban green spaces emerge as practical nature-based solutions that enhance climate resilience and support sustainable urban development.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning for sustainable agriculture in Africa
Emmanuel Abayomi Rotimi, Grace Oyebola Rotimi, Andrew Ayomide Rotimi
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584200
Article preview: AI enables data-driven solutions to increase productivity while supporting sustainability and resilience in Africa. Recent studies highlight solutions for improving crop management and livestock production. It also discusses ways to overcome barriers that prevent the adoption of policies that benefit all stakeholders.
Performance of treated domestic wastewater fertigation in field and screenhouse systems: implications for soil fertility and maize productivity
Jonas Gervas Balengayabo
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584199
Article preview: This study analyzes the effects of using treated domestic wastewater-based fertigation under field and screenhouse conditions on soil fertility and maize yield. The differences between the two systems reveal distinct patterns in terms of organic matter, nutrient dynamics, and yield levels. The results indicate the potential of treated domestic wastewater (TDWW) as an alternative source of water and nutrients, with practical implications for resource-efficient agriculture, especially in water-limited regions.
Evaluation of agronomic traits, biomass productivity, and morphological fractions of Napier grass (Cenchrus purpureus) in Assosa, Northwestern Ethiopia
Diribi Mijena Jibat, Kedija Ahmed Seid
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584198
Article preview: Nine Napier grass entries and a local check were assessed between 2016 and 2018 at the Assosa Agricultural Research Center to evaluate agronomic performance, biomass productivity, and morphological components. Notable effects of accession, year, and their interplay highlighted the potential for choosing high-performing forage types adapted to the Assosa midland and comparable sub-humid agroecologies of Western Ethiopia. Accessions 16791 and 16813 demonstrated superior biomass yield and are recommended for growing in the region.
Influence of intercropping and nutrient management practices on the fodder yield, proximate composition and feed quality of oats (Avena sativa) and berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum)
Manoj Kushwah, Harjeet Singh, Devendra Kumar Dadhich, Goutam Mondal, Kamal Garg, Sourabh Kumar, Mohammad Hashim, Sanjeev Kumar
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584197
Article preview: A 2:1 oats–berseem intercropping system combined with enriched nutrient management produced high green and dry fodder yields with superior forage quality, indicating a sustainable approach to improving fodder availability and supporting resilient livestock production.
Farmers’ perceptions, awareness, and knowledge of adaptation strategies to climate change: the case of Bahawalpur District in Southern Punjab, Pakistan
Asad Ali Khan, Ehtasham Ullah Khan, Kinza Khan
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584196
Article preview: A field survey in Bahawalpur District shows that although most farmers are aware of climate change, adaptive responses vary significantly with education, landholding size and access to extension services, with irrigation adjustments and crop diversification among the most common strategies.
Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris var. cicla) growth and yield response to solid winery waste compost and NPK fertiliser application in sandy soil
Ncedo Goodwill Ndololwana, Olwetu Antonia Sindesi, Azwimbavhi Reckson Mulidzi, Francis Bayo Lewu
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584195
Article preview: Compost obtained from winemaking waste favorably influenced the growth of Swiss chard due to vigorous leaf growth and water retention in sandy soils. The finding that the yields showed no significant difference in the plots fertilized with compost compared to the NPK treatment supports compost as a sustainable amendment, although further studies are needed to establish the optimal application rate.
Institutional contribution to urban biodiversity conservation, productivity, and carbon sequestration: a case study of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria
Joshua Ogunade, Quadri Onilude, Jonathan Onyekwelu, Olusola Ogunwande, Zacharia Yaduma
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584194
Article preview: An evaluation of tree species diversity and carbon sequestration within the developed areas of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria reveals elevated species richness and substantial biomass, positioning institutional green spaces as significant urban carbon reservoirs and key contributors to biodiversity conservation.
Studies on cropping systems and pesticide regimes in Tolon, in the Northern Region of Ghana
Abdul-Rahaman Amadu Dohbia, Samuel Adu-Acheampong, Emmanuel Robert Blankson, Frederick Kankam
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584193
Article preview: A field survey of smallholder farmers in Tolon, Northern Ghana, reveals widespread continuous maize cultivation highly correlated with heavy pesticide application, alongside improper handling and reuse of empty containers. These practices constitute significant environmental and health risks in one of the region’s key agricultural areas.
Solar energy interception and maize yield variability in the Forest-Savanna Transition Zone, Oyo State, Nigeria
Chukwuka Friday Agbor, Boluwatife Mosebolatan Dada, Suleiman Abdul-Azeez Adegboyega
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584192
Article preview: Satellite-derived photosynthetically active radiation and vegetation indices were integrated with field measurements and crop growth modelling to assess maize yield variability in Oyo State, Nigeria. Results show a strong relationship between absorbed solar energy and yield, highlighting the value of remote sensing in climate-resilient crop prediction.
Correlation and path analysis of body weight and linear body measurements in Marshall broiler chickens
Emmanuel Abayomi Rotimi
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584191
Article preview: Analysis of body weight and linear body measurements in Marshall broilers reveals a strong positive association between body length and live weight, with path analysis confirming body length as the most influential trait. The findings support its use as a practical selection criterion in broiler breeding programmes.
Cover story
Biodiversity and carbon storage in degraded landscapes
Woody vegetation plays a critical role in sustaining ecosystem functions in highly degraded landscapes, where natural structures have been profoundly altered. This study explores how perennial woody elements contribute to plant diversity conservation and carbon storage, highlighting their importance for ecosystem resilience and climate change mitigation. By examining vegetation structure, species composition and carbon stocks, the research emphasizes the value of managed woody systems as nature-based solutions supporting sustainable land use
Literature that refers to “acid rain” as “corrosive downpour”
Jaime A. Teixeira Da Silva
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-583190
ABSTRACT. When the pH of rainwater is low or acidic, it is referred to as acid rain. The term ‘acid rain’, for example, in climate change or other environmental literature, is an established term. Due to the double synonymisation of two words, ‘acid’ to ‘corrosive’ and ‘rain’ to ‘downpour’, the non-standard term or ‘tortured phrase’ (TP) ‘corrosive downpour’ has arisen in some literature. To better appreciate the volume and extent of this TP, a search (29 October 2025) was performed on Google Scholar, revealing about 132 results. After filtering out duplicates and theses, from among accessible literature, 91 documents published between 2015 and 2024 were examined, including 63 papers, 13 book chapters, and 15 proceedings papers: 65 had a DOI, 58 were open access, and the majority (62 documents) had an affiliation in India. None of the documents have been retracted. The highest incidence of the TP ‘corrosive downpour’ was in documents published by Springer Nature (n = 7). While most (93%) documents had only a few (1–3) instances of this TP, and while a large number (49%) had accrued zero citations as of May 2025, suggesting their lack of practical use for citation, some documents with this TP had high citation counts, suggesting their influence. This TP – a de facto error – would benefit from being corrected in any literature that includes it.
Keywords: air pollution; climate change; education and literacy; environment; error; nomenclature; scientific communication.
Latest Articles
EUDR in Romania: transfer of good practices to agriculture from the forest sector
Gabriel-Iustinian Saveliev, Mirela Relenschi, Bogdan Buliga and Maria Chelaru (Răduc)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591209
Article preview: As the EU Deforestation Regulation reshapes agricultural supply chains, this study explores how proven forestry practices can support its implementation. Drawing on Romania and international experience, it highlights practical pathways for traceability, digital governance and due diligence.
Evaluation of the effect of a seaweed-based biostimulant on germination and biochemical quality of the species Momordica charantia
Ștefănica Ostaci, Alina Elena Marta and Carmenica Doina Jităreanu
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591208
Article preview: Seaweed-based biostimulants can boost crop establishment and nutritional quality. The authors of the study show that Algevit accelerated seed germination and favoured the accumulation of β-carotene, phenolic compounds and soluble proteins in , with genotype-dependent responses. The significant increase in provitamin A content supports the potential of natural biostimulants to enhance the functional and nutraceutical value of this emerging crop.
Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used in the management of peptic ulcer disease in Igabi Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Oluyinka Christopher Ariyo
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591207
Article preview: Traditional knowledge can help to identify new treatments for peptic ulcer disease. This study reveals 22 medicinal plant species used in northern Nigeria, highlights the most valued remedies, and points to promising natural sources of future gastroprotective compounds.
Entomological and epidemiological assessment of Glossina species in relation to the prevalence of trypanosomiasis in selected area councils of Abuja
Wintola Haulatu Umaru, Ahmad Rufai Musa, Okpanachi Martin Abdubala, Amana Gabriel Unekwu, Sabdat Unoiza Umar, Olubiyo Comfort Kehinde, Olubiyo Gloria Taiye and Ogbe Kingsley Unekwu
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591206
Article preview: Effective control of trypanosomiasis across sub-Saharan Africa depends on understanding where and when tsetse flies pose the greatest threat. This study reveals striking variations in vector abundance and infection prevalence, highlighting priority areas for surveillance and targeted intervention.
Varietal resistance of soybean to Callosobruchus maculatus and protection of the soybean seeds using Gnidia kraussiana root extracts
Daniel Kosini, Elias N. Nukenine, Georges Tchindebe and Taimanga
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591205
Article preview: How can soybean seeds be protected against Callosobruchus maculatus during storage? This study identified soybean varieties with stable resistance and showed that Gnidia kraussiana root extracts can almost completely inhibit beetle development, offering a promising eco-friendly approach to seed protection.
Plant diversity and conservation concerns in the forest–savannah transition zone of Central Cameroon
Tsopmejio Temfack, Ingrid, Cédric Chimi Djomo, Amandine Flore Ntomen Yonkeu, Hubert Kpoumie Mounmemi, Aurélien Richy Nkouankam Tchayep, Armel Lekeufack, Guylène Ngoukwa, Victoire Divine Kamga Wanang and Louis Zapfack
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591204
Article preview: Hidden within Central Cameroon’s forest–savannah transition zone, the Minta Communal Forest hosts an unexpectedly rich flora of 173 plant species, including 13 threatened trees and a rare endemic species. The findings reveal both the ecological value and the growing conservation urgency of these poorly documented landscapes.
Long-term evaluation of biomass and tropane alkaloid biosynthesis in Datura hairy root cultures elicited with AgNO3
Asma Moussous, Walid Moussous and Lakhdar Khelifi
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591203
Article preview: A five-year evaluation of Datura hairy root cultures demonstrates their sustained capacity for biomass production and tropane alkaloid biosynthesis. The findings also identify AgNO₃ elicitation as a promising strategy for enhancing hyoscyamine and scopolamine production, supporting the sustainable biotechnological production of valuable medicinal compounds.
Influence of cleaning cut timing and nitrogen application on Andropogon gayanus seed yield in Western Ethiopia
Kedija Ahmed Seid, Diribi Mijena Jibat and Habtamu Alebachew Damtew
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591202
Article preview: The influence of nitrogen fertilisation and cleaning cut timing on the seed yield and germination performance of Andropogon gayanus was evaluated under Western Ethiopian conditions. The findings highlight the role of agronomic management practices in supporting improved forage seed production in similar agroecological environments.
Comparative assessment of true potato seed-derived genotypes under controlled conditions
Mihaela Cioloca, Carmen Liliana Bădărău, Andreea-Marinela Tican, Nina Bărăscu and Monica Popa
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591201
Article preview: True potato seed (TPS) is emerging as a promising solution for crop producers even in climatic conditions less favourable. The study evaluates six TPS-derived genotypes, highlighting clear differences in yield and tuber size and underscoring their potential to support conventional seed systems.
Cover story
Cities can become ecosystems
Urban environments are often perceived as biologically simplified spaces shaped by infrastructure and human activity. Yet trees and managed green spaces within cities can restore essential ecological functions, sustaining biodiversity, regulating microclimates, and reconnecting fragmented habitats. When woody vegetation is integrated into the urban fabric, cities begin to function not only as built systems, but as living ecosystems.
Based on empirical data generated at the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, urban and institutional green areas were found to store over 220 tons of carbon per hectare, directly contributing to the reduction of the urban carbon footprint. These field-based results demonstrate that effective climate change mitigation can be achieved within developed landscapes through well-managed urban vegetation.
By linking biodiversity conservation with carbon sequestration, urban green spaces emerge as practical nature-based solutions that enhance climate resilience and support sustainable urban development.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning for sustainable agriculture in Africa
Emmanuel Abayomi Rotimi, Grace Oyebola Rotimi, Andrew Ayomide Rotimi
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584200
Article preview: AI enables data-driven solutions to increase productivity while supporting sustainability and resilience in Africa. Recent studies highlight solutions for improving crop management and livestock production. It also discusses ways to overcome barriers that prevent the adoption of policies that benefit all stakeholders.
Performance of treated domestic wastewater fertigation in field and screenhouse systems: implications for soil fertility and maize productivity
Jonas Gervas Balengayabo
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584199
Article preview: This study analyzes the effects of using treated domestic wastewater-based fertigation under field and screenhouse conditions on soil fertility and maize yield. The differences between the two systems reveal distinct patterns in terms of organic matter, nutrient dynamics, and yield levels. The results indicate the potential of treated domestic wastewater (TDWW) as an alternative source of water and nutrients, with practical implications for resource-efficient agriculture, especially in water-limited regions.
Evaluation of agronomic traits, biomass productivity, and morphological fractions of Napier grass (Cenchrus purpureus) in Assosa, Northwestern Ethiopia
Diribi Mijena Jibat, Kedija Ahmed Seid
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584198
Article preview: Nine Napier grass entries and a local check were assessed between 2016 and 2018 at the Assosa Agricultural Research Center to evaluate agronomic performance, biomass productivity, and morphological components. Notable effects of accession, year, and their interplay highlighted the potential for choosing high-performing forage types adapted to the Assosa midland and comparable sub-humid agroecologies of Western Ethiopia. Accessions 16791 and 16813 demonstrated superior biomass yield and are recommended for growing in the region.
Influence of intercropping and nutrient management practices on the fodder yield, proximate composition and feed quality of oats (Avena sativa) and berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum)
Manoj Kushwah, Harjeet Singh, Devendra Kumar Dadhich, Goutam Mondal, Kamal Garg, Sourabh Kumar, Mohammad Hashim, Sanjeev Kumar
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584197
Article preview: A 2:1 oats–berseem intercropping system combined with enriched nutrient management produced high green and dry fodder yields with superior forage quality, indicating a sustainable approach to improving fodder availability and supporting resilient livestock production.
Farmers’ perceptions, awareness, and knowledge of adaptation strategies to climate change: the case of Bahawalpur District in Southern Punjab, Pakistan
Asad Ali Khan, Ehtasham Ullah Khan, Kinza Khan
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584196
Article preview: A field survey in Bahawalpur District shows that although most farmers are aware of climate change, adaptive responses vary significantly with education, landholding size and access to extension services, with irrigation adjustments and crop diversification among the most common strategies.
Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris var. cicla) growth and yield response to solid winery waste compost and NPK fertiliser application in sandy soil
Ncedo Goodwill Ndololwana, Olwetu Antonia Sindesi, Azwimbavhi Reckson Mulidzi, Francis Bayo Lewu
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584195
Article preview: Compost obtained from winemaking waste favorably influenced the growth of Swiss chard due to vigorous leaf growth and water retention in sandy soils. The finding that the yields showed no significant difference in the plots fertilized with compost compared to the NPK treatment supports compost as a sustainable amendment, although further studies are needed to establish the optimal application rate.
Institutional contribution to urban biodiversity conservation, productivity, and carbon sequestration: a case study of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria
Joshua Ogunade, Quadri Onilude, Jonathan Onyekwelu, Olusola Ogunwande, Zacharia Yaduma
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584194
Article preview: An evaluation of tree species diversity and carbon sequestration within the developed areas of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria reveals elevated species richness and substantial biomass, positioning institutional green spaces as significant urban carbon reservoirs and key contributors to biodiversity conservation.
Studies on cropping systems and pesticide regimes in Tolon, in the Northern Region of Ghana
Abdul-Rahaman Amadu Dohbia, Samuel Adu-Acheampong, Emmanuel Robert Blankson, Frederick Kankam
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584193
Article preview: A field survey of smallholder farmers in Tolon, Northern Ghana, reveals widespread continuous maize cultivation highly correlated with heavy pesticide application, alongside improper handling and reuse of empty containers. These practices constitute significant environmental and health risks in one of the region’s key agricultural areas.
Solar energy interception and maize yield variability in the Forest-Savanna Transition Zone, Oyo State, Nigeria
Chukwuka Friday Agbor, Boluwatife Mosebolatan Dada, Suleiman Abdul-Azeez Adegboyega
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584192
Article preview: Satellite-derived photosynthetically active radiation and vegetation indices were integrated with field measurements and crop growth modelling to assess maize yield variability in Oyo State, Nigeria. Results show a strong relationship between absorbed solar energy and yield, highlighting the value of remote sensing in climate-resilient crop prediction.
Correlation and path analysis of body weight and linear body measurements in Marshall broiler chickens
Emmanuel Abayomi Rotimi
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-584191
Article preview: Analysis of body weight and linear body measurements in Marshall broilers reveals a strong positive association between body length and live weight, with path analysis confirming body length as the most influential trait. The findings support its use as a practical selection criterion in broiler breeding programmes.
Cover story
Biodiversity and carbon storage in degraded landscapes
Woody vegetation plays a critical role in sustaining ecosystem functions in highly degraded landscapes, where natural structures have been profoundly altered. This study explores how perennial woody elements contribute to plant diversity conservation and carbon storage, highlighting their importance for ecosystem resilience and climate change mitigation. By examining vegetation structure, species composition and carbon stocks, the research emphasizes the value of managed woody systems as nature-based solutions supporting sustainable land use
Literature that refers to “acid rain” as “corrosive downpour”
Jaime A. Teixeira Da Silva
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-583190
ABSTRACT. When the pH of rainwater is low or acidic, it is referred to as acid rain. The term ‘acid rain’, for example, in climate change or other environmental literature, is an established term. Due to the double synonymisation of two words, ‘acid’ to ‘corrosive’ and ‘rain’ to ‘downpour’, the non-standard term or ‘tortured phrase’ (TP) ‘corrosive downpour’ has arisen in some literature. To better appreciate the volume and extent of this TP, a search (29 October 2025) was performed on Google Scholar, revealing about 132 results. After filtering out duplicates and theses, from among accessible literature, 91 documents published between 2015 and 2024 were examined, including 63 papers, 13 book chapters, and 15 proceedings papers: 65 had a DOI, 58 were open access, and the majority (62 documents) had an affiliation in India. None of the documents have been retracted. The highest incidence of the TP ‘corrosive downpour’ was in documents published by Springer Nature (n = 7). While most (93%) documents had only a few (1–3) instances of this TP, and while a large number (49%) had accrued zero citations as of May 2025, suggesting their lack of practical use for citation, some documents with this TP had high citation counts, suggesting their influence. This TP – a de facto error – would benefit from being corrected in any literature that includes it.
Keywords: air pollution; climate change; education and literacy; environment; error; nomenclature; scientific communication.
