International Journal of Earth Sciences Knowledge and Applications
IJESKA is an open access peer-reviewed scholarly journal aiming to publish high quality research and review articles mainly in the scope of Earth Sciences.
The authors keep the copyrights of the published materials with them, but the authors are aggee to give an exclusive license to the publisher that transfers all publishing and commercial exploitation rights to the publisher. The puslisher then shares the content published in this journal under CC BY-NC-ND license.
A Computationally Robust Decision-Support System forMountain Agriculture: Validated Fuzzy-AHP-GIS Modelingwith Dynamic Threshold Optimization
The development of computationally robust decision-support tools is critical for achieving sustainable agricultural intensification in vulnerable mountain ecosystems. This study presents an integrated Fuzzy-AHP-GIS framework to assess land suitability for soybean cultivation in the western highlands of Cameroon. Unlike conventional approaches, the proposed model incorporates dynamic threshold optimization and a novel multi-faceted validation protocol to enhance reliability for practical agricultural decision-making. Nine biophysical and accessibility criteria were weighted using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), standardized through fuzzy membership functions, and integrated within a Geographic Information System (GIS) to produce a continuous suitability map classified into four ordinal categories. Validation against 93 ground-truth points employed traditional metrics, multi-class Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis, and the Fuzzy Kappa statistic. Results show that 10.12% of the area is highly suitable, 23.84% moderately suitable, 62.31% marginally suitable, and 1.24% unsuitable, with topography identified as the dominant limiting factor. The validation framework demonstrated excellent discriminative capacity (multi-class AUC = 0.841) and strong ordinal agreement (Fuzzy Kappa = 0.782), significantly outperforming standard Cohen’s Kappa (0.713). The introduction of a dynamic threshold optimization algorithm reduced severe misclassifications by 57%. The study advances the field of agricultural informatics by demonstrating that sophisticated validation frameworks and adaptive thresholds are essential for ensuring the reliability and practical applicability of land suitability models in precision agriculture. These findings offer a scalable, computation-ready decision-support system tailored for mountainous regions, with clear implications for sustainable intensification and climate resilience planning.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bertrand Kenzong, Primus Azinwi Tamfuh, Roger Kogge Enang, Georges Kogge Kome http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Simulation and AI-Driven Evaluation of Chemical Tracer Characteristics for Fracture Diagnostics and Interwell Communication in Sour Gas Reservoirs
Accurate interpretation of chemical tracer data in sour, high-temperature unconventional reservoirs is fundamentally compromised by hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)-induced degradation and phase-partitioning effects. Using high-fidelity reactive transport simulations calibrated to Permian Basin conditions (Wolfcamp and Bone Spring formations), we quantify how common tracers—including fluorobenzoates and ethyl acetate—undergo 75–98% degradation within seven days at 140°C and 2000 ppm H₂S, rendering conventional interpretation protocols invalid. Neglecting these effects leads to systematic overestimation of fracture half-length by 40–60% and misinterpretation of interwell communication severity. Two field case studies from the Delaware Basin and Central Basin Platform demonstrate that substituting robust chemistries (naphthalene sulfonates, trimethylbenzene, perfluorocarbons) reduces degradation to below 30%, while degradation‑corrected analysis reduces estimated interwell communication volume from 89,000 to 62,000 barrels of oil equivalent—aligning with simulation truth (58,000 BOE) and preventing overly conservative infill drilling spacing. A trained XGBoost surrogate model (R²=0.973, prediction time <0.1 seconds) enables real‑time, degradation‑corrected field interpretation. These findings establish a validated workflow for tracer‑based fracture diagnostics in sour gas shales, directly linking chemical degradation kinetics to operational decision‑making.
Copyright (c) 2026 Klemens Katterbauer, Ahmed Alsmaeil, Sehoon Chang http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Deep Diamond Core Drilling Practice in A Thick Salt Formation Containing Clay/Anhydrite Interlayers
In mineral exploration, diamond core drilling is the most expensive but provides the most accurate data. To discover metallic minerals, industrial raw materials, and coalfields, and to determine their reserves and operability, diamond core drilling is necessary. Today, all operating mines have been put into operation as a result of diamond core drilling and evaluation of these studies. Diamond core drilling is expensive and time-consuming compared to other exploration methods. However, the importance of diamond core drilling in both scientific and economic studies is increasing day by day, as samples obtained from mineral deposits and drilled rock units are representative of their characteristics. In diamond core drilling, the main goal should be to achieve the best possible drilling rate and the highest core recovery. The high rate of penetration and core recovery depends mainly on the properties of the drilled geological formations. Drilling through thick salt formations is among the most challenging operations in the drilling sector. In these formations, the drilling team faces very different, high-risk working conditions. Also, as the depth increases in diamond core drilling, drilling operations become more difficult, and drilling time and cost increase. In this study, 1501 m-deep diamond core drilling in a thick salt formation with a clay/anhydrite interlayer (sticky and dissolvable) was investigated. Specifically, the casing design and cementing operations, penetration problems, the solutions applied to overcome these difficulties, and the properties of the drilling mud used were examined.
Copyright (c) 2026 Adil Özdemir http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Time-lapse Geological Assessment of Groundwater; A Case Study of Oghara Farmlands, Delta State, Nigeria
The use of mineral fertilizers and nutrients is widely adopted in conventional agricultural practices, playing an essential role in maintaining optimal crop yields and improving overall quality. To aid farmers in effective fertilization and crop management strategies, non-invasive geophysical techniques can offer insights into the nutrient distribution within the soil. This study deemed it imperative to assess the physicochemical parameters and heavy metals (HM) present in the groundwater of the study area. A total of three groundwater samples and five soil samples were collected and tested for different heavy metals (HM) checked included iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), and cadmium (Cd). Recently, electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) has been used in local studies to measure changes in soil properties. Unfortunately, the signals we measure from the ground are mixed up because of changes in the soil both sideways and up and down, making it hard to figure out what each change is contributing. The analysis of groundwater revealed that, with the exception of a few parameters, groundwater samples fell below the WHO permissible limit. The soil's porosity, permeability, and the surrounding topography influence the migration rate. The rates of migration vary between the first and second locations. It has been found that if the vertical migration rate in the dry sand layer (which is about 13.7 meters thick based on drilling data) stays the same, the fertilizer contaminant will take about 0.5 years to reach the wet sandy layer below it in the first location, while in the second location, it will take around 1 year. Detailed calculations to determine the arrival time at the sandy layer have been conducted. Ultimately, it is imperative for the government to guarantee the installation of water purification plants during the process of borehole drilling, as this will help further decrease the existing salinity levels in the groundwater.
Migration, Date, heavy metal, pH, Fertilizer, Permissible
Copyright (c) 2026 Anslem Ozobeme Azubike , Osisanya Olajuwon Wasiu , Airen Osariere John, Ibitoye Taiwo Abel, Saleh A. Saleh http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Determination of Antimicrobial Activities in Isolated Soil Fungi from Kyonemangay, Whakhema Township, Ayewarwady Region of Myanmar
The soil microorganisms were isolated from five different places of soil samples collected from Kyonemangay, Whakhema Township. For the isolating of fungi, soil samples were collected from 30cm depth after removing the surface layer of soil. Some physicochemical properties of soil samples were determined such as pH range, moisture content, soil temperature and soil texture. Soil fungi were isolated by soil dilution methods and chemical treatment methods. Ten soil fungi were isolated, and their morphological characters were studied. The isolated soil fungi were used to test antimicrobial activities by the paper disc diffusion assay methods against eight test organisms such as Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Bacillus Subtilis, Bacillus pumilus, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Micrococcus luteus. According to the results of antimicrobial activities, TTSM-01, TTSM-03 and TTSM-07 showed antimicrobial activities against bacillus subtilis and candida albicans. TTSM-03 was selected for further investigations because it exhibited the highest antifungal activity against Candida albicans with 25.9 mm clear zone.
Copyright (c) 2026 Thaw Tar Su Mon Mon http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Gravity and Magnetic Exploration for Unconventional Oiland Gas Traps in Buried Volcanic Formations
This study considers the determination of the geometric shape of volcanic formations in geological sections of the Middle Kura Depression (MKD) in connection with the identification of hydrocarbon accumulations within them. Using gravity and magnetic exploration data, the distribution zones of volcanic formations were identified, and their depths of occurrence and thickness in the study area were determined. Given the presence of numerous oil and gas traps in igneous formations across many basins worldwide, the potential for unconventional volcano-tectonic traps in the MKD was investigated. The presence of a sedimentary complex beneath the volcanic strata in the region, which may contain oil and gas accumulations, is substantiated. A local distribution of volcanoes was revealed, and an uneven thickness distribution of volcanic rocks across the area was established. It was shown that the thickness of lava flows around the volcano's outlet channel is large (more than 2000 m) but decreases with distance to 400-500 m, at which point the full thickness of the volcanic formations can be uncovered.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vagif Gadirov, Ekrem Kalkan, Adil Özdemir, Avaz Mammadov, Ali Novruzov, Kamran Gadirov http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Some Ecological Aspects and Conservation Efforts on Honeycomb Oysters in Rakhine Coastal Region of Myanmar
A total of four distinct species of "honeycomb oysters" belonging to the family Gryphaeidae (Order: Ostreida) within the class Bivalvia. The specimens categorized represent two primary genera: Hyotissa (Stenzel, 1971) and Neopycnodonte (Stenzel, 1971). Among the genus Hyotissa, three species were recorded: H. hyotis (Giant honeycomb oyster), H. inermis (Saddle-shaped honeycomb oyster), and H. sinensis (Foam honeycomb oyster), with shell lengths ranging from 40.4 mm to a maximum of 75.5 mm. Additionally, the genus Neopycnodonte is represented by N. cochlear (Deepsea honeycomb oyster), measuring 58 mm in length. This compilation provides essential morphometric and classification data for these bivalve molluscs, highlighting the diversity of honeycomb oysters within their respective ecological niches. This study also examines the ecological significance, environmental requirements, and management frameworks for honeycomb oysters (Family: Gryphaeidae) within the Rakhine Coastal Region, Myanmar. Analysis of the region reveals that habitat suitability is strictly governed by tidal regimes, substrate stability, and seasonal salinity fluctuations- factors increasingly threatened by sedimentation and mangrove deforestation. To address pressures from overharvesting and coastal development, this paper evaluates potential Community-Based Fisheries Management (CBFM) and sustainable harvesting protocols, including size-based limits and seasonal closures. While documented conservation initiatives in Rakhine remain sparse, the integration of local stewardship with habitat restoration is identified as a vital pathway for maintaining population recruitment. The findings emphasize that a shift toward co-management and selective, low-impact harvesting gear is essential for the long-term resilience of Rakhine’s bivalve resources and the coastal livelihoods dependent upon them.
Copyright (c) 2026 Naung Naung Oo http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Analysis of Groundwater Quality in Paghman Selected Regions, Kabul, Afghanistan
This study examines groundwater quality in the Paghman region of Kabul, Afghanistan, drawing on relevant groundwater data to support the analysis. The primary objective is to assess groundwater quality across different areas of the Kabul Paghman regions and evaluate its suitability for human health, as groundwater is the primary water source for most communities in the region. Where contamination is suspected, groundwater quality can be evaluated through a range of laboratory analyses, including physical, chemical, and biological tests. In this investigation, particular emphasis is placed on chemical and physical parameters. The scope of the study was constrained by limited access to analytical instruments, as a complete set of equipment required for a comprehensive groundwater assessment was unavailable.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhibullah Rasouli, Hafizullah Rasouli, Ashok Vaseashta http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Essential Role of Geotechnical Properties in Determining the Foundation for Buildings and Structures: A Case Study in South-central Region of Nigeria
This study examines the geotechnical characteristics that influence the selection of suitable foundations for buildings and structures within Airport Road G.R.A., a major urban area in Nigeria’s south-central region. Soil samples were obtained from borehole depths of 1 m, 3 m, and 6 m, and subjected to geotechnical laboratory analyses, including moisture content, particle size distribution, atterberg limits, bulk density, and triaxial shear tests. Results reveal that the soil is clay-rich, containing more than 51% fines. The plasticity index ranges from 21.02% to 31.65%, the plastic limit from 25.16% to 31.75%, and the liquid limit from 46.18% to 58.37%. Specific gravity values range between 2.40 and 2.67, while cohesion values vary between 22.0 and 24.0 kN/m². Findings indicate that clay content increases with depth, implying that foundation type and depth must be adjusted according to soil strength and the structural load. The recommended foundation design in the study is Pad or pile for high rise buildings.
Copyright (c) 2026 O. Andre-Obayanju, Ese Anthony Aladin, I. E. Olunubi, J. O. Odia-Oseghale http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Species Diversity of Prawns and Shrimps in Sittwe Coastal Water, Rakhine State, Western Myanmar
A total of 16 prawns and shrimps belonging to 3 families and one order collected from Sittwe coastal water, Sittwe Township, Rakhine State, Myanmar were studied. All collected specimens were taken out of the fish landing sites of Sittwe Township. The freshwater prawn: Macrobrachium rosenbergii, Macrobrachium equidens, Macrobrachium malcolmsonii, Macrobrachium lanchesteri, Macrobrachium neglectum, and the marine shrimp species: Penaeus monodon, Penaeus merguiensis, Penaeus indicus, Penaeus penicellatus, Penaeus semisulcatus, Metapenaeus dobsoni, Metapenaeus affinis, Metapenaeus eboracensis, Parapenaeopsis sculptilis, Penaeopsis jerryi and Acetes indicus were identified. The genus Macrobrachium and Penaeus were the most composition in Sittwe and other Rakhine coastal areas. The species Acetes indicus is the most popular shrimp in Myanmar as making for Ngapi (Myanmar fish paste).The taxonomy, morphological characteristics, and economic importance of each species were studied.
Copyright (c) 2026 myo min tun http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Integrated Waste Management and Facility Siting in Ghana: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis with Hydrogeological and GIS Insights
Rapid urbanization, population growth, and changing consumption patterns have intensified solid and liquid waste generation in Ghana, placing significant pressure on existing waste management systems. Despite established regulatory frameworks, persistent challenges such as open dumping, weak enforcement, limited source segregation, and inadequate rural service coverage continue to undermine environmental sustainability and public health. This study presents a systematic review and meta-analysis of waste management practices and facility siting approaches in Ghana, guided by PRISMA and structured using the Population–Concept–Context framework. A total of 21,253 records were screened, with 33 studies meeting the inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis and quantitative analysis using a random-effects model. The findings indicate a continuous increase in waste generation with no evidence of absolute reduction. Urban collection efficiency reaches up to 80% in some cities, whereas rural coverage remains critically low (approximately 5.8%), leading to widespread reliance on open burning and associated health risks. National segregation and recycling rates remain below 15%, despite the high diversion potential (approximately 90%) demonstrated by facilities such as the Kumasi Compost and Recycling Plant. GIS-based siting approaches show strong technical performance (accuracy approximately 77%, Kappa approximately 0.71), but their implementation is constrained by data limitations, governance challenges, and weak integration of localized hydrogeological information, particularly within the Volta and Pra basins. The study identifies a critical policy–practice gap driven by limited investment, unreliable data, and inadequate integration of Earth Science datasets. It concludes that sustainable waste governance requires integrated systems, mandatory segregation, hybrid siting approaches, improved data platforms, and stronger institutional enforcement.
Copyright (c) 2026 Michael Stanley Peprah, Edwin Kojo Larbi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Landslide Susceptibility, Risk Assessment, and Mitigation Strategies in Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Landslides are a major environmental hazard across Africa, threatening lives, infrastructure, and sustainable development. Their increasing frequency is driven by climate extremes, fragile geology, and rapid, unregulated urbanisation. This study conducts a systematic review and meta-analysis of 33 peer-reviewed publications (2010–2025) to evaluate the state of landslide research in Africa. The objectives were to assess susceptibility and risk assessment models, identify dominant environmental and human risk factors, and compare mitigation strategies across regions. Using the PRISMA framework, data was extracted from multiple databases and analysed through both quantitative and qualitative integration. Results show that rainfall, slope gradient, and lithology are the main determinants of landslide susceptibility, while deforestation, mining, and informal urban expansion amplify risk. Traditional GIS–AHP models achieved mean accuracies of 82%, whereas advanced machine learning and hybrid approaches (RF, FAHP, XAI) attained 88–92%, reflecting improved predictive reliability. East and North Africa exhibit the highest hazard densities due to steep terrain and high rainfall, while Central Africa remains data deficient. Despite methodological progress, fewer than 20% of studies influence national disaster risk reduction (DRR) policies, exposing a persistent science–policy gap. The study highlights the need for evidence-based, data-driven, and inclusive risk management. Strengthening geospatial data infrastructure, integrating scientific research into land-use planning, and enhancing community participation are critical for resilience. These efforts align with the Sendai Framework (2015–2030) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 11, 13, and 15) to advance proactive and climate-resilient landslide risk governance in Africa.
Geospatial and Remote Sensing Techniques
Environmental and Socio-economic Drivers
Evaluating Rock Slope Stability Using Geomechanical Classification System: An Experimental study from the Western Ghats, India
Rock slopes within the Deccan basaltic terrain of Sahyadri Group in the Western Ghat region of Maharashtra were evaluated using geomechanical classification systems including Basic Rock Mass Rating (RMRb), Geological Strength Index (GSI) and Kinematic analysis to provide a preliminary assessment of slope stability conditions of eight different zones. Kinematic analysis of joints data was performed to determine the potential failure (Plane, Wedge and Toppling) for one natural slope and three artificial slopes. Modified Slope Mass Rating (M-SMR) has been done exclusively for the natural slope. Geological-geotechnical mapping was carried out to determine key geomechanical parameters, including Rock Quality Designation (RQD), Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS), degree of rock weathering, joint conditions, joints infilling, orientations of discontinuities (joints) of rock and slope geometry (slope dip and slope aspect) for each selected zone. Basalt rock mass is characterized by 3-4 sets of joints, slightly to moderately weathered, medium to high persistence, close spacing and no infillings. The basic RMRb values range from 73-89.75, indicating good to very good rock mass quality, while GSI values range from 46-67.46 corresponding to fair to good conditions. Kinematic analysis indicates that wedge sliding may be more prominent than other modes of failure. The results of the M-SMR have been obtained from class I (Very Low Risk/Very Good), indicating overall stable conditions. Nevertheless, despite favorable geomechanical classification, the slopes within the study area are interpreted considered to have a comparatively lower probability of structural failures governed primarily by orientations of discontinuities (joints) of rock and slope geometry.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sushil Khanduri http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Geochemistry of Alluvial Deposits in the Baboa De Kole Area (Tshopo Province, Democratic Republic of Congo): Implications for Provenance, Chemical Alteration and Tectonic Setting
The Baboa de Kole alluvial sediments (Tshopo Province, Democratic Republic of Congo) constitute a key archive for reconstructing weathering, provenance and sediment recycling in the Archean greenstone belts of Central Africa. This study integrates major- and trace-element geochemistry to evaluate chemical weathering intensity, sediment maturity, source-rock characteristics, trace-element enrichment patterns and tectonic setting. Elemental compositions obtained by energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) reveal silica-rich assemblages dominated by quartz, together with significant TiO2 and Fe2O3 contents reflecting heavy minerals and secondary iron oxides. High CIA (81–91) and PIA (> 89) values indicate intense chemical weathering under humid tropical conditions, consistent with advanced feldspar alteration and clay formation. Herron’s discrimination diagram shows that most samples plot in the ferruginous sandstone field, with minor ferruginous shale–litharenite compositions, pointing to oxidative weathering typical of ferralitic soils. Provenance indicators suggest derivation mainly from mafic protoliths, combined with contributions from recycled crustal material and possible hydrothermal quartz inputs. Enrichment of Cr, V and Zr reflects the concentration of resistant heavy minerals, whereas anomalous Ag and Cd contents may be linked to sulfide phases and/or hydrothermal influence. Tectonic discrimination plots display mixed signatures between passive and active continental margin settings, implying a composite geodynamic control on sediment supply. Overall, the geochemical dataset reveals highly weathered, compositionally mature sediments sourced from variably altered mafic rocks and recycled materials, deposited under humid tropical conditions. These results provide new insights into sediment generation processes and the tectono-sedimentary evolution of alluvial systems associated with Archean greenstone terranes in Central Africa.
Copyright (c) 2026 Innocent Agama Badriyo, Christophe Kabala Imoya, Dimitri Elukesu Mbula, Philippe Essomba http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
An Analytical Geothermal Model and Its Implications for Geothermal Engineering Design
This study presents an analytical model to predict the temperature of the produced fluid and the cumulative heat production from a geothermal reservoir by cycling cold water injection. First, the solutions of the temperature of the produced fluid, the net heat production rate and the cumulative heat production are derived. Then each parameter of the analytical model is analyzed to study the sensitivity and the implications of designing a geothermal project. The derived solutions may be further used to develop other solutions or methods for geothermal engineering. From the quantitative analysis of model results, it is found that a waiting time of year is needed to produce heat until injected water breaks through in a dry geothermal system. After the breakthrough, the temperature of produced fluid is low compared to the initial reservoir temperature. This reduces the heat output. To improve that, the production rate must be high, but the residence time must be long. From that point of view, when designing a practical project, a horizontal well is preferred because of a high rate, and a large well spacing is preferred because of longer residence time. Formation thickness or injected fluid temperature does not affect the heat production significantly, but thermal conductivity does.
Copyright (c) 2026 Erlong Yang, James J. Sheng http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Narman Fairy Chimneys Area as a Geotourism Example from Erzurum, NE Turkey
Geotourism, which was created to promote and protect geological structures, has become one of the most important tourism sectors to develop and spread rapidly in recent years. Bringing geological structures with millions of years of history to tourism ensures that these structures are preserved and passed on to future generations and provides an increase in tourism revenue at local and regional level. Our country is rich in geological structures due to its location on the active Himalayan tectonic belt. One of these riches is the Narman Fairy Chimneys located within the borders of Erzurum (NE Turkey). This geological structure, known as Narman Fairy Chimneys, is formed by rivers flowing on a volcanic-sedimentary sequence and is located on the valley slopes. The different behaviors of the hard and soft geological units in the volcanic-sedimentary sequence against erosion have been effective in the formation of this uniquely beautiful geological structure. Narman Fairy Chimneys, which are visible from the surface over a wide area, fascinate those who see them with their spectacular beauty. Developing Narman Fairy Chimneys for tourism as an example of geotourism will both preserve this geological structure and pass it on to future generations and contribute to the economic development of the region by hosting national and international tourists
Copyright (c) 2025 Ekrem Kalkan http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Marine Macrobenthic Algal Diversity in the Magyi Coastal Areas, Shwe Thaung Yan Township, Myanmar
A total of 32 species of marine benthic green, brown and red algae belonging to 21 families of 14 orders collected from Magyi Coastal Areas (Latitude 17º 04′ N, Longitude 94º 27′ E) in Shwe Thaung Yan Township were identified. The specimens were identified based on the external and internal characters of liquid-preserved materials and living specimens in the field. In the present study, 12 species, 8 genera of Chlorophyta, 7 species, 4 genera of Phaeophyta and 13 species, 11 genera of Rhodophyta were observed. Among these algae, Anadyomene stellata (Wulfen) C. Agardh, Valoniopsis pachynema (G. Martens) Boergesen, Caulerpa taxifolia (M. Vahl) C. Agardh, C. sertularioides (S.G. Gmelin) M. Howe, Halimeda discoidea Decaisne, Halimeda opuntia (Linnaeus) J.V. Lamouroux, Codium edule P.C. Silva, Avrainvillea lacerata J. Agardh, Hydroclathrus clathratus (C. Agardh) M. Howe, Dictyota implexa (Desfontaines) J.V. Lamouroux, Padina antillarum (KÜtzing) Piccone, P. australis Hauck, Sargassum ilicifolium (Turner) C. Agardh, Melyvonnea erubescens (Foslie) Athanasiadis & D.L. Ballantine, Halymenia dilatata Zanardini, Titanophora pikeana (Dickie) Feldmann, Gracilaria textorii (Suringar) Hariot, and Palisada perforata Bory (K.W. Nam) were newly recorded of Magyi Coastal Areas. A brief note on the potential uses of each algal was provided.
Key words: diversity, Magyi coastal areas, marine benthic algae, potential uses, Shwe Thaung Yan Township, taxonomy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Soe Pa Pa Kyaw, Zue Zue Me Ko Min, July Moe, Mya Kyawt Wai http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Global Warming and the Microwave Warming
We should not only complain about Global Warming; we should look for all the factors that might have contributed to it. So far, we blame only the increased CO2 in the atmosphere for it. Nobody seems to look for other factors that have contributed to global warming. We all know that microwaves heat because we use microwaves to cook food and warm food. Then why do we ignore completely the heating effect of the microwaves used in our microwave technologies, such as cellular phones, TV, internet, and everything wireless, and 2/ the powerful microwave flux we use to create artificial rain to avoid severe droughts (HARP). Also, nobody seems to see the microwave technologies connected to the Pandemic and the mutating viruses. This article was written to draw attention to these and other factors.
Copyright (c) 2025 Maria Kuman http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Preliminary Evidence for the Tectonic Influence on the Emplacement of the Gwandara Pluton in the Northcentral Nigeria Basement Complex
This study presents the nature and pattern of field and microtectonic fabrics engraved in the Gwandara pluton as it relates to its emplacement around the southwest of Keffi, in the Northcentral block of the Nigerian basement complex. The granite pluton is part of the numerous isolated hills around Keffi, upstretched amidst polydeformed gneissic and schistose rocks. The pluton is characterized by patches of granodioritic materials and overlapped by a thermally healed fractural system that shows a hopscotch joint pattern with a sinistral strike-slip displacement pattern. Around the host rock, the deformation shows drag-stretching of early injected leucosome, development of ptygmatic folds, and realignment of veins that were supposedly perpendicular to the pluton. The strain estimate shows a strain partitioning pattern that is relatively homogeneous, defined largely by the mineral grain distribution. Anisotropy of Magnetic Susceptibility data suggests a dominantly NE-SW directional magmatism under transient tectonic conditions typical of a transtensional zone. Mineral quartz and feldspars show mechanical deformation and define the field lone-phased ductility that somewhat formed about the crystallization temperature of feldspars during an active regional deformation. Most of the structures resulted from the combined effects of phase transpose under a protracted deformation episode and magmatic stress field generated during pluton growth.
Copyright (c) 2025 Agbo Peter, Nathaniel Goter Goki http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Assessing the Impact of Land Use and Land Cover Change on Land Surface Temperature in Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis with a Focus on Ghana
This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) alterations on Land Surface Temperature (LST) throughout Africa, particularly emphasising Ghana. The research utilised the PRISMA procedure to systematically discover, assess, and summarise 52 peer-reviewed papers published from 2000 to 2025. The review utilised Landsat, MODIS, and Sentinel datasets to quantify temperature fluctuations associated with significant land use and land cover shifts, including urban growth, deforestation, and agricultural intensification. The meta-analytic findings indicated that metropolitan regions were, on average, 2.8 °C warmer than vegetated surfaces, with deforestation and agricultural conversion causing temperature rises of 1.6–2.3 °C. Ghana demonstrated a greater mean difference of 3.1 °C relative to the continental norm, mostly because of fast urbanisation in Accra and Kumasi. Regression analyses revealed robust connections between Normalised Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) and LST, with coefficients varying from +12.15 °C to +24.05 °C per unit increase, hence affirming anthropogenic influences on surface warming. Vegetation indices ( Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)) exhibited an inverse correlation with LST, highlighting the cooling effect of vegetation. The results reveal significant geographical variability, with hotspots located in Greater Accra, Kumasi, Northern Ghana, and the Savannah Transitional and Pra Basin regions. The study suggests that the loss of forest, unrestrained urban expansion, and degradation caused by mining are increasing thermal stress throughout Ghana. It advocates for cohesive land-use regulations, reforestation, and climate-adaptive agriculture to alleviate surface warming and bolster national resilience in relation to Sustainable Development Goals 11, 13, and 15
Copyright (c) 2025 Michael Stanley Peprah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Evaluation of Physical and Chemical Properties of Groundwater and Surface Water in Ugbuwangue and Ogunu, Delta State
Groundwater and surface water are important sources of domestic and industrial supply in many developing regions, but increasing human activities threaten their quality. This study evaluates the physicochemical characteristics of groundwater and surface water in Ugbuwangue and Ogunu communities in Delta State, Nigeria. A total of fifteen (15) water samples were collected from boreholes and hand-dug wells. Key parameters analyzed included pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, bicarbonate, major ions, and heavy metals, using standard laboratory methods. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) was used for metal analysis. Results show that pH values ranged from 5.0 to 6.3, indicating slightly acidic conditions below the WHO acceptable limits (6.5–8.5). EC values (52–317 µS/cm) and TDS values (26–157 mg/L) were within permissible limits, suggesting low dissolved ion content. However, elevated levels of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb) were observed in several samples, exceeding WHO guideline values, indicating potential health risks from long-term consumption. These contaminants may originate from both geogenic processes and anthropogenic inputs, particularly industrial activities. The study recommends appropriate treatment of water before consumption and continuous monitoring to prevent contamination and protect public health.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ogueh Desiree Edeh, Ese Anthony Aladin http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Structural-Geochemical Controls on Mineralization Localization in the Vakijvari Ore Field, Georgia
The Vakijvari Ore Field represents a structurally and geologically complex system formed through multiphase magmatic-hydrothermal processes, genetically linked to the Middle Eocene subvolcanic magmatism of the Adjara-Trialeti rift-fold zone. This study presents an integrated analysis based on petrological, mineralogical, geochemical, and remote sensing data. Microscopic and mineralographic investigations revealed the presence of copper-polymetallic mineralization formed due to fractional crystallization and hydrothermal metasomatism. Using ASTER satellite imagery and DIPS structural analysis software, NE–SW and NW–SE oriented fault systems were identified, which directly control the zoning and localization of mineralization. The integrated dataset demonstrates that structural control, magmatic evolution, and late-stage hydrothermal alteration collectively drive ore body formation, establishing the Vakijvari Ore Field as a significant target for future geological and mineral resource exploration and evaluation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Giorgi Mindiashvili, Benjamin Busch, David Bluashvili, Keti Benashvili, Mirian Makadze, Revaz Menabde, Meri Lekishvili http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Species of Rastrelliger branchysoma (Bleeker, 1851) from Chaung Tha Coastal Area, Morphometric Relationships and Meristic Characteristics
Rastrelliger branchysoma collected from the Chaung Tha Coastal Area were used to analyze morphometric relationships and meristic studies. This study described the morphometric relationships, including the length-length relationship and meristic counts, of R. branchysoma. The result showed that twelve morphometric characters were measured to assess their relationship with the total length, and six meristic counts were also recorded. The correlation coefficient (r) was analyzed with the independent variable (total length) and the dependent variable (other morphometric parameters). Significantly high positive correlations were observed between the total length and most body measurements. The maximum total length of R. branchysoma recorded in the present study was 26.1 cm at Chaung Tha. Morphometric and meristic studies will provide knowledge on morphometric and meristic features that could be useful for species identification and stock assessment.
Copyright (c) 2025 July Moe http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The New Quantum Technology Found Two Sank Continents
With the new quantum technology, two enormous anomalous structures the size of continents were located under the Atlantic Ocean and under the Pacific Ocean. I think, these are the sank continents of Atlántida under the Atlantic Ocean and the continent of Lemuria under the Pacific Ocean. They are now inside the Earth on top of the Hot Core of the Earth, and their mountain peaks transfer some of the heat of the Earth core to the Earth crust. This makes the places from which hot plasma erupt from the ground in Hawaii to be over the mountain tops of Lemuria. However, the scientists who found with the new quantum technology the anomalous structures with the size of continents under the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans, tried to explain them with cosmic hypothesis instead of looking at the ancient history of the Earth.
Hawaiian volcanic activity and Lemuria under it
Sustainable Phosphogypsum Management in the Circular Economy: Innovations for Environmental Risk Mitigation and Resource Efficiency ‒ Global Perspectives with Indian Insights
The rapid growth of the global population, coupled with the escalating demand for food, has led to increased reliance on phosphate-based fertilizers vital for ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity. However, the large-scale production of these fertilizers, particularly through the wet-process method for phosphoric acid manufacturing, generates significant volumes of phosphogypsum (PG), a byproduct primarily composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO₄·2H₂O). For every ton of phosphoric acid produced, approximately 4 to 6 tons of PG are generated, resulting in a global annual output of over 300 million tons. India contributes significantly to this total, generating an estimated 11–12 million tons of PG each year. PG poses serious environmental and public health concerns due to the presence of hazardous impurities and naturally occurring radionuclides such as radium-226. A majority of this waste is stockpiled in vast, unprotected stacks, leading to soil degradation, water contamination, radon gas emissions, and long-term ecological risks. Despite its potential for reuse, only about 15% of PG is currently recycled, leaving the remainder as a growing liability due to inadequate disposal practices. This manuscript presents a comprehensive review of PG generation, its environmental implications, and the global and national regulatory frameworks governing its management. Emphasis is placed on sustainable research and development (R&D) initiatives aimed at safe handling and value-added utilization of PG. Case studies from India highlight key aspects of PG management, including its generation from phosphoric acid production, estimated output across the fertilizer industry, analysis of PG at selected plants, and industry-wise disposal practices across the country. The review also examines international and Indian guidelines such as those from the atomic energy regulatory board (AERB) and the international atomic energy agency (IAEA) which guide the safe use of PG in various sectors. Additionally, the economic aspects of PG stack maintenance and closure are discussed, highlighting the financial burden associated with long-term storage and the pressing need for circular economic solutions. The paper advocates for the adoption of pretreatment technologies, stricter regulatory enforcement, and broader recycling strategies aligned with circular economy principles to minimize the environmental footprint of PG and promote sustainability in the fertilizer industry.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Bishnu Pada Bose http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Food and Feeding Habits of Indian Mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta) from Chaung Tha Coastal Area
The stomach content of Rastrelliger kanagurta was studied by regular monthly collection over the period of 10 months from January 2024 to December 2024. A total of 28 food items were recorded. Seven groups of food items, such as diatoms, dinoflagellates, larvae, algae, copepods, and miscellaneous items were recognized. The dominant diet in the stomach contents was diatoms and copepods. The most dominant items were Chaetoceros spp., Coscinodiscus spp., and copepod species, such as Calanus sp and Eucalanus sp. The analysis indicated that this species feeds mainly on diatoms (61.08%) and copepods (25.41%). The highest actively feeding intensity was observed at 76.5% in October, and the lowest actively feeding intensity was observed at 18.4% in July. 23.1-25.0 cm length group was recorded as the maximum actively feeding intensity (69%). The maximum feeding intensity was recorded in the maturity stage (49.5%), and the minimum feeding intensity was recorded in the ripe stage (15%).
Effect of Waste Dump Site Leachate Seepage on Soil Quality in Idumwowina Community Benin City, Edo State, Southern Nigeria
The study was carried out to evaluate the environmental impact of waste dumpsite to the quality of ground water and its impact on the soil in Idumwunowina Community Edo State, Nigeria. The heavy metal such as (Cd, Fe, Cr, Pb, Ni) were determined in the topsoil from dept S (0–10 cm) and (10–20 cm) where analyzed using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The determination for the soil components were the heavy metal concentration at depth 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm, with lead Pb having minimum value of 0.01 mg/kg–0.03 mg/kg, Cadmium 0.1 mg/kg–0.2 mg/kg, Fe (518 mg/kg–1070 mg/kg), Cr (0.1 mg/kg–0.8 mg/kg), Ni (0.6 mg/kg–2.4 mg/kg), Zn (2.6 mg/kg–8.6 mg/kg), Cu (0.2 mg/kg–0.8 mg/kg). The value of Pb, Cd, Fe, Ni e.t.c. shows variable value as some were below WHO standard and other above WHO standard at the different sources of collection.
Copyright (c) 2025 Agholor Machenry Oligie, Maju Oyovwikowhe, Ehigie Aiyevbekpen Clinton http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Land Surface Temperature Variability in Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis with a Focus on Ghana
Land Surface Temperature has become an essential variable for comprehending climatic variability, urban heat islands, and ecological resilience, especially in Africa, where growing urbanization and deforestation exacerbate thermal stress. This study conducts the inaugural systematic review and meta-analysis of land surface temperature variability throughout Africa, concentrating specifically on Ghana. Following PRISMA guidelines, 67 peer-reviewed and grey literature sources published from 2000 to 2025 were synthesized to evaluate spatio-temporal land surface temperature changes, analytical methods, and policy implications. Results reveal a continent-wide warming trend characterized by significant diurnal asymmetry, highlighted by ongoing nighttime warming. Urban areas like Accra and Kumasi exhibit considerable heat island effects, primarily due to the reduction of greenery and the proliferation of impermeable surfaces. Vegetation and aquatic environments constantly exhibit cooling effects, whereas barren land and developed regions record the highest land surface temperature readings. Landsat imagery predominates in Ghanaian research for its geographical resolution, while MODIS products are appreciated for their temporal consistency; nonetheless, the integration of multi-sensor methodologies is still constrained. The distinctive vulnerabilities of Ghana's deforestation, uncontrolled urban development, and coastal susceptibility highlight the necessity for climate-sensitive design. This study identifies significant research deficiencies, such as the inadequate representation of coastal dynamics, health implications, and equity factors in urban heat reduction efforts. The findings establish a foundation for adaptive land-use planning, climate-smart agriculture, and urban resilience methods, delivering crucial insights for Ghana and Africa's overarching climate adaptation initiatives.
Land Surface Temperature (LST), Climate Variability, Sub-Saharan Africa, Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis
Diversity of Seagrasses in Shwe Thaung Yan Coastal Area, Ayeyarwady Region, Myanmar
Seagrasses take part in many important roles of marine biodiversity such as nursery habitat, protective habitat, direct food source and nutrient cycling. The diversity of seagrasses was determined in the seagrass meadows along the Shwe Thaung Yan coastal area, Ayeyarwady Region, Myanmar. Four stations (M1, M2, W1 and P1) were established: M1 and M2 stations were located along Magyi coast at Latitude 17˚03'42.5"N, Longitude 094˚27'05.7"E and Latitude 17° 04' 14.6"N, Longitude 094° 57' 1.3"E respectively. W1 station was positioned at Latitude 17˚08'32.2"N, Longitude 094˚27'41.9"E in Wetthay bay. P1 station was set at Latitude 17˚ 09' 56.9" N, Longitude 094˚29' 42.2"E in Phoe Htaung bay. A total of nine seagrasses from the families of Cymodoceaceae and Hydrocharitaceae were recorded in the stations. One-way ANOVA analysis showed a significant difference (p<0.05) in Shannon diversity values among the stations. The highest diversity was observed at W1 station (1.63524 (H')). The results showed that there were no highly dominant seagrasses in the stations, which were made up of multi-specific seagrass meadows. The evenness index revealed that there were differences among the stations with the seagrass found in W1 station having the highest evenness (J’=0.84035). Thalassia hemprichii was observed as a dominant species in Magyi (M1 station) and Wetthay Bay.
Copyright (c) 2025 Zue Zue Miko Min http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Characterization of Depositional Environments and Hydrocarbon Potential in the AI Well Niger Delta Basin
Reservoir characterization is essential for understanding subsurface geology, supporting hydrocarbon exploration, and improving production strategies. This study investigates the AI Well within the Agbada Formation of the Niger Delta Basin through an integrated sedimentological, petrographic, and geochemical approach. A total of 100 ditch cutting samples were analyzed to evaluate lithofacies, mineralogical composition, and geochemical variations. The results indicate a depositional transition from high-energy fluvial to low-energy marine environments, with quartz-rich sandstones serving as primary reservoir units and clay-rich shales acting as effective seals. Petrographic and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses show that quartz is the dominant framework mineral, whereas kaolinite and chlorite are associated with reduced porosity and permeability. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) results reveal silica enrichment and ferruginization, indicating post-depositional diagenetic alterations that influence reservoir quality. The findings emphasize that both depositional facies and diagenetic processes play vital roles in controlling reservoir performance. This study underscores the significance of multidisciplinary integration in refining reservoir models and optimizing hydrocarbon recovery in the Niger Delta Basin.
Agbada Formation, depositional environment, reservoir quality, petrography, Niger Delta Basin
Copyright (c) 2025 Efetobore Maju-Oyovwikowhe, Stephine Aisosa Egharevba, Godwin Okumagbe Aigbadon, Sarah Itohan Aduwa http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0