Modelling the Effects of Soil-Climate Interactions on Bioindicator Crop (Cayenne Pepper) Development in Bayelsa State, Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects

Abstract

This study modelled the effects of soil-climate interactions on the growth and development of cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum), used as a bioindicator crop, under screenhouse conditions in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The research focused on how soil temperature, indoor atmospheric temperature, and key soil health indices (pH, electrical conductivity, and salinity) influence plant performance, with plant height serving as the main growth indicator. Results showed that soil temperature had a moderate positive correlation with soil pH (R = 0.4436; R² = 0.1969) and a stronger positive correlation with soil electrical conductivity (R = 0.6328; R² = 0.4005). However, its relationship with soil salinity was weak (R = 0.2555; R² = 0.0653). Among the soil factors, soil pH had the strongest positive influence on plant height (R = 0.7896; R² = 0.6253), confirming its vital role in nutrient availability and plant growth. In contrast, soil temperature showed a moderate negative correlation with plant height (R = −0.5274; R² = 0.2782), while indoor screenhouse temperature had a very strong negative effect (R = −0.8983; R² = 0.8071). This indicated that excessive heat inside the screenhouse significantly suppressed crop development through physiological stress. The findings highlighted the strong impact of soil-climate interactions on crop performance in the Niger Delta. They underscored the need for climate-smart, bioresource-based soil stabilization and fertility enhancement approach  to improve cayenne pepper growth and support sustainable agriculture in coastal regions of Bayelsa State.