Effect of soil pH (Hydrogen and hydroxyl ions concentration) on the lifecycle of the Tunga penetrans.

Abstract

Soil pH is a measure of hydrogen and hydroxyl ions concentration in the soil. The Tpenetrans off host stages inhabits soil during development thus soil pH is an important abiotic factor. Laboratory analysis was carried out on the soil samples collected from the field. The standard probe and meter were used in determining the soil pH. The soil pH was shown to influence the Tpenetrans population. The soil pH of the soil samples collected was found to belong to two classes, the neutral class and slightly alkaline class. Soil pH was shown to have significant effect on the Tpenetrans population (P=O.OO)hence the prevalence of Tpenetrans infestations.