Journal of Vocational Education in Agriculture

Natural Substances Supplement in Laying Hen Diet

Kanda Lokaewmanee — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Nutritionists now recognize that laying hen eggs contain essential nutrients for the human body to grow. In particular, laying hen eggs are considered the best food source of high quality protein.Because it has all the essential amino acids that the body needs, one egg contains 7 grams of protein per egg, amino acids, lecithin, vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin D, calcium, iron and 75 calories per egg.The composition of one chicken egg consists of 3 main parts: egg shell, egg white, and egg yolk, with proportions equal to 11, 62, and 27 percent, respectively.The color of the yolk affects the palatability of the food. Therefore, it affects the satisfaction and acceptance of consumers.The egg production industry often adds synthetic colorants to increase the intensity of the egg yolk color.There is also the addition of natural pigments, such as the use of ground dried mulberry leaves in the feed of laying hens at a level of 3.0-20 percent, giving an egg yolk color value of 10.84.The use of crude mulberry leaf extract in laying hens' feed at a level of 1.0-1.2 percent gave an egg yolk color value of 7.01-10.50. The use of green bell peppers in laying hens' feed at a level of 225 ppm gave an egg yolk color value of 8.1.Using red chili in laying hens' feed at a level of 0.3 ppm gave an egg yolk color value of 10.2. Using Butea monosperma (Lam.) flower powder in laying hens' feed at a level of 1.00 percent gave an egg yolk color value of 6.53, and using hemp seeds in laying hens' food at a level of 5 percent gave an egg yolk color value of 6.20. In the yolk of laying hen eggs, there is lutein equal to 0.3-0.5 milligram per egg.The use of dried marigold flowers and marigold extract at a level of 40 milligram per kilogram of feed of laying hens gave lutein equal to 3 and 4 miligram per 100 g of egg yolk weight.It was also found that the use of hemp seeds and hemp oil in the laying hens' diet at a level of 20 percent resulted in egg yolks containing 144.6 and 250.6 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids.Therefore, the use of natural supplements in the feed of laying hens, it is a way to produce laying hen eggs that have properties to promote health and reduce the risk of various diseases. Therefore, laying hen eggs can be considered a food that promotes good health.

Comparison of Different Rearing Methods on Growth and Survival Rate of Serrated Mud Crabs

Kanda Lohtohman, Sukritta Samartkit, Apirak Chanthawong, Aem-on Sawangphong — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This research aimed to study the growth rate of Serrated Mud Crabs from four different cultures with three replications as follows: 1) Raft culture in earthen ponds, 2) Culture in cement tanks, 3) Recirculating aquaculture system and 4) Recirculating aquaculture system with seaweed (Gracilaria fisheri). The Serrated Mud Crabs had an average initial length of 4.11±0.68 centimeters and an average initial weight of 41±14.24 grams. Each experiments contained 45 crabs and cultured for 60 days. According to the research results, the Serrated Mud Crabs cultured in cement tanks, recirculating aquaculture system and recirculating aquaculture system with seaweed (Gracilaria fisheri) have no significant differences (p>0.05) in weight and length gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and daily growth rate per individual (ADG), while Serrated Mud Crabs cultured in recirculating aquaculture system had the highest survival rate (p<0.05). The result also showed that the total weight of Serrated Mud Crabs cultured in recirculating aquaculture system had increased the most but have no significant differences from Serrated Mud Crabs cultured in recirculating aquaculture system with seaweed (Gracilaria fisheri) indicating that culturing Serrated Mud Crabs cultured in recirculating aquaculture system can compensate traditional cultures.

Effects of Relative Humidity on the Moisture Content of Substrate Culturing Bhutan Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus pulmonarius)

Itsara Tangsuwan, Nuttakorn Intarvicha — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The study examines how relative humidity affects the moisture content of the substrate used for culturing Bhutan oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus pulmonarius). The experiment was planned in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of 3 levels of experimental units with 5 repetitions per level. The first treatment had a relative humidity of 76–80%. The second treatment had a relative humidity of 81–85%. The third treatment had a relative humidity of 86–90%. Control the relative humidity within the experimental unit by turning the water sprayer on and off (by spraying water starting at 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) for 15 days. An analyzed of the moisture content of substrate culturing Bhutan oyster mushrooms, found that the first treatment had an average of 58.23±0.20%, the second treatment had an average of 58.33±0.18%, and the third treatment had an average value of 58.15±0.23%. When considering the 3 levels of experimental units, there was no statistically significant difference at the 95 percent confidence level (p>0.05). Increasing the relative humidity at various levels has no direct effect on the moisture content of the substrate culturing Bhutan oyster mushrooms.

Application of Integrated Research Methods in the Production of Dried Bananas

Chanirat Phungbunhan, Saksri Rakthai — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This study aimed to: 1) identify the challenges associated with dried banana production in Phetchabun Province using qualitative research methods, and 2) explore solutions to these production challenges through quantitative research methods. A mixed-methods approach was employed to comprehensively analyze the environmental factors affecting dried banana production. Qualitative data was collected through in-depth interviews and non-participant observations, with a sample selected via snowball sampling.The primary issue identified in the qualitative study was the high humidity in Phetchabun, which led to mold growth and spoilage during banana drying. In the quantitative phase, a completely randomized design (CRD) was used to determine the optimal temperature for drying bananas. The study examined three temperature ranges 48-52 °C, 58-62 °C, and 68-72 °C over a 12 hour drying period, with five replications for each condition. The results indicated that the optimal drying temperature for dried bananas was 58-62 °C, which effectively reduced humidity levels to 21%, minimizing spoilage and mold growth.Additionally, the study tested the effects of relative humidity on dried banana production, with experiments conducted at three levels: 50%, 60%, and 70%. The results revealed that the optimal relative humidity for banana drying was 50%, as it was the lowest level that significantly reduced the risk of mold growth and spoilage.The findings of this study highlight the effectiveness of combining qualitative analysis with quantitative experimentation. By identifying the key environmental challenges and testing potential solutions, this research provides actionable insights that can help improve the efficiency and quality of dried banana production in Phetchabun Province.

Effect of Suaeda maritima (L.) Dumort leave extract against Photobacterium damselae

Alisa Thiamsakul, Rawiwan Watanadilok, Wanchai Wongsudawan, Arvut Munhapon — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Suaeda maritima (L.) Dumort, commonly known as seablite, is a halophytic plant widely found in coastal areas and mangrove forests. Previous studies have indicated that extracts from Suaeda possess antimicrobial properties. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of crude extracts from seablite leaves, collected from mangrove forests in Chonburi Province, against Photobacterium damselae. This bacterium is a pathogen affecting aquatic animals and can also cause opportunistic infections in humans.In this study, we evaluated the antimicrobial activity of both red and green seablite leaf crude extracts using the disc diffusion method.The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were also determined. To enhance the purity of the extracts, bioautography and Preparative Thin Layer Chromatography (PTLC) techniques were applied to identify and partially purify the antimicrobial compounds. The study found that the crude extract from red Suaeda leaves at 20mg/disc significantly inhibited P. damselae with an average inhibition zone of 12±0.0 mm, while the green extract showed only 0.7±0.0 mm. The MIC and MBC values for red Suaeda leaves were 12.5 mg/ml. After partial purification using PTLC and bioautography, three fractions were obtained: fr.1, fr.2, and fr.3. Among these, fr.2 showed the highest efficacy in inhibiting P. damselae at 1 mg/disc, with an inhibition zone diameter of 11±0.0 mm and both MIC and MBC values of 1.25 mg/ml. These results indicate that the partial purification of the crude extract significantly enhanced its effectiveness in inhibiting P. damselae by up to tenfold, suggesting seablite leaf extracts have promising potential as antibacterial agents.

Effect of Mitragyna speciosa Korth Supplements on Productive Performance and Hematology Profiles in Broiler Chickens

Peerawat Choopeng, Nusawan Boonwong, Kamonpun Chuekwon — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa Korth) is a medicinal plant native to Thailand, with its leaves commonly used to treat various diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Kratom as a feed additive on the productive performance and blood variables of broiler chickens. A total of 160 Ross 308 male broilers, aged 1 day, were randomly assigned to 4 treatment groups, each consisting of 4 replicates with 10 broilers per replicate. The chickens were subjected to a completely randomized design (CRD). The four treatments were as follows: (1) control group, fed a diet without kratom leaf powder; (2) diet with 0.3% kratom leaf powder; (3) diet with 0.6% kratom leaf powder; and (4) diet with 0.9% kratom leaf powder. The diet formulations were divided into two phases: the starter phase (1-21 days) and the finisher phase (22-42 days). Experimental diets contained 23% crude protein during the starter phase and 20% crude protein during the finisher phase, with 3,100 and 3,200 kcal/kg of gross energy, respectively. Chickens were fed ad libitum with constant access to fresh water throughout the study. The results showed that kratom leaf inclusion significantly affected Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) (P<0.05). The diets containing 0.6% and 0.9% kratom leaf powder improved FCR (1.84), compared to the control (2.17) and the 0.3% kratom leaf powder group (2.14). However, the kratom leaf powder had no significant effect on blood variables, including white blood cell count, heterophil count, lymphocyte count, and H/L ratio. In conclusion, a 0.6% inclusion of kratom leaf powder improved FCR in broiler chickens.

Sustainable Irrigation Development in Lao PDR: Socio-Economic Benefits and Environmental Challenges of the Namhoum Irrigation Project

Vida Xaephan, Piya Duangpatra, Kobkiat Pongput, Nudnicha Pongput — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The Namhoum Irrigation Project in Lao PDR has significantly enhanced agricultural productivity and socio-economic conditions for local farmers. This study evaluates the project’s impacts on land use, community participation, socio-economic benefits, and environmental sustainability using a mixed-methods approach. Satellite imagery analysis was employed to assess land use changes, while structured farmer surveys, in-depth interviews, and environmental monitoring provided comprehensive insights. A total of 998 households participated in the survey, with the sample size determined using Taro Yamane’s (1967) formula at a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. The sample group comprised Namhoum irrigation project officers, water user group members, village headmen, local sages, and the general public. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and participatory methods such as Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA). The analysis incorporated both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques to evaluate socio-economic outcomes, land use changes, and environmental impacts. The results indicate a 30% expansion in cultivated areas, leading to a more than twofold increase in average farmer income. Community participation, particularly through water user groups, has been instrumental in improving water resource management and mitigating conflicts. However, the project has also introduced environmental challenges, including soil degradation, biodiversity loss in natural water bodies, and altered water flow patterns, raising concerns about long-term sustainability. The findings underscore the need for sustainable soil and water management practices, continuous environmental monitoring, and the inclusion of marginalized groups, such as women and smallholder farmers, in decision-making processes. This study contributes valuable insights into balancing socio-economic development with environmental conservation and offers recommendations for enhancing the long-term viability of irrigation projects through technology integration and inclusive community participation.

Lessons Learned and Analysis of the Utilization of Research and Innovation for Regional Benefits

Ciriklon Viwallvong, Tanin Kongsila, Tanee Sreewongchai — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This study aims to investigate the factors contributing to the successful utilization of research and innovation for regional development in Thailand. The focus is on analyzing projects funded by research management agencies under the conceptual framework of Research Utilization. A qualitative research methodology was employed, comprising focus group discussions, document analysis, and content analysis of evaluated project proposals. The study examines insights from three key stakeholder groups: 18 researchers from public institutions, private organizations, and higher education institutions; 6 representatives from funding agencies, including the Office of National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council and the Agricultural Research Development Agency (Public Organization); and 9 end users from local agencies and related organizations, totaling 33 participants. The findings reveal that researchers play the most significant role in successful research application, particularly in terms of subject-matter expertise, capacity for knowledge transfer, and ability to build collaborative networks within local contexts. Following this, end users contribute to success through alignment of research with local needs and accessibility to research outputs. Funding agencies also play a vital role by providing sustained financial support and implementing effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. Additionally, governmental support, such as investment in infrastructure, is identified as a critical enabling factor in translating innovation into tangible regional outcomes. The contribution of this study lies in the development and validation of an analytical framework that can be used to systematically assess, plan, and evaluate the utilization of research at the regional level. Furthermore, the study offers strategic recommendations to strengthen structured collaboration among researchers, funding agencies, and end users, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and long-term socio-economic impact of research utilization in diverse regional contexts.

Effects of Dietary Probiotics Supplementation on Growth and Survival Rate of African Catfish Fingerlings Nursed in Cement Ponds

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary probiotic supplementation on the growth and survival of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) fingerlings, as well as changes in water quality. A completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications and four treatments was applied including treatment 1 (T1) commercial diet without probiotics (control), treatment 2 (T2) commercial diet supplemented with probiotics from Bacillus subtilis fermentation, treatment 3 (T3) commercial diet supplemented with probiotics from photosynthetic bacteria fermentation, and treatment 4 (T4) commercial diet supplemented with probiotics from fish gut microbiome fermentation. After 50 days of nursing, there were no significant differences on the average weights, average lengths and average survival rates among the fingerlings in T2, T3, T4, however, they were statistically significant different with T1 (p<0.05). The fingerlings fed with diets supplemented with probiotics showed higher growth and survival rates than those fed with the control diet. It was found that the fingerlings in T4 had the highest average weight of 11.40±0.27 g, while the fingerlings in T1 had the lowest average weight of 8.17±0.13 g. The fingerlings in T3 had the highest average length of 12.04±0.04 cm. and the highest average survival rate at 98.00±2.00% whereas the fingerlings in T1 had the lowest average length of 10.61±0.32 cm and the lowest average survival rate at 85.33±6.11%. Water quality parameters, including pH and temperature, remained within suitable ranges for fingerling nursing throughout the experimental period.

Effect of Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) on Growth and Yield of Baby Cos Lettuce and Red Batavia Lettuce

Penkhae Rungrueng, Teerapat Sangadkit, Chutima Kapkaeo, Jarukitt Ditsara — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The objective was to investigate the effects of Grow Light Emitting Diode (LED) on the growth and yield of baby cos lettuce and red Batavia lettuce in hydroponic systems within a temperature-controlled room at 25±2°C with a 16-hour photoperiod, compared with outdoor cultivation. The experiment was arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with the following treatments: 1) Sunlight (control), 2) LED QBX850-L(PAR=210.61 W×m^-² PPFD = 1,003.025 mmol×m^-²×s^-¹ and Illuminance= 66,542.1 lux), 3) LED grow light (4000K) (PAR= 107.032 W×m^-² PPFD = 511.123 mmol×m^-²×s^-¹ and Illuminance= 29,518.3 lux), 4) LED grow light (warm white) (PAR=105.257 W×m^-² PPFD = 500.891 mmol×m^-²×s^-¹ Illuminance = 24,469.6 lux), and 5) LED grow light (pink) (PAR=102.093 W×m^-² PPFD = 521.342 mmol×m^-²×s^-¹ Illuminance = 8,975.2 lux). It was found that baby cos lettuce grown under LED light in all treatments exhibited significantly higher growth and yield than those grown under natural light in terms of leaf number, plant height, canopy width, leaf length and width, fresh weight (with and without roots), and dry weight, while leaf color values (L*, a*, b*) were not significantly different. For red batavia lettuce, treatments 3–5 significantly increased plant height, canopy width, leaf and root length compared with natural light. Treatment 3 produced the highest fresh weight with and without roots at 123.68±19.83 and 102.27±14.47 g/plant, respectively. Red batavia lettuce grown under LED light also showed significantly greener leaves than those grown under natural light. Findings from this study indicate that LED lighting, especially the LED TR3 model, can significantly enhance lettuce growth and yield. Such lighting systems are highly applicable for controlled-environment agriculture, including greenhouse and plant factory production, to improve efficiency and crop consistency.