From induction to embryo proliferation: improved somatic embryogenesis protocol in cork oak (Quercus suber L.)
Naouar Ben Ali*, Zineb El Ansari Nejjar, Nosair El Yakoubi, Fouad Oumassi, Mustapha Hassoun, Loubna Benamar, El Moussaoui Abdelfattah, Loubna Bounab, Brahim El Bouzdoudi, Mohammed L’Bachir El Kbiach
Laboratory of plant biotechnology, department of biology, faculty of Sciences of Tetouan, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
Life and Health Sciences Team, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Abdelmalek Essaadi, University, Tetouan, Morocco
Laboratory of Ecology, Systematic and Conservation of Biodiversity (LESCB), URL-CNRST N° 18, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi Univercity, Tetouan, Morocco
Advanced Materials, Structures and Civil Engineering Team, ENSA Tetouan, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan 93000, Morocco
ORCID number: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1023-5589
Abstract
Cork oak (Quercus suber L.) is the dominant species in the forest’s ecosystems of Northern Morocco, comprising 72% of the area. It is an economically important species, producing high-quality cork, wood and acorns, and offers significant potential for further improvement. Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is the basis of clonal forestry for these species. One challenge with this approach is that SE induction in cork oak has not yet been fully optimized, especially the process of secondary somatic embryogenesis (SSE). Our study focused on developing a reproducible procedure for SSE to produce mature somatic embryos in cork oak. We evaluated the response of different PGR and physical parameters on the morphological development and somatic embryogenesis of cork oak. Darkness and a temperature of 25±2°C yielded the best results (93.30%). Additionally, incubation in complete darkness (in an oven for 2 months) produced better responses than exposure to a 16-hour photoperiod provided by cool-white fluorescent lamps at a photon flux density of 50-60 µmol m-2s- 1. For secondary somatic embryo production, the use of Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) at a concentration of 1mg/l in N30K medium blocked the germination process in cork oak somatic embryos. Regarding to secondary somatic embryogenesis, the use of ANA had no effect on the process. While the combination of ANA and BAP at 1mg/l showed better effect on stem and leaf formation (0.22 ±0.07abc) and (0.71± 0.25bc) respectively. No significant interaction with activated charcoal was observed. In this study, we describe the conditions required for studying the process of secondary somatic embryogenesis, including darkness, temperature and other key parameters. It was concluded that the N30K medium, a temperature of 25°C and full darkness produced the best results.
Submitted: 11/10/2024 | Revised: 02/02/2025 | Accepted: 24/02/2025
Pages 332-341 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p223
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Influences of N, P, K, Ca, and Mg fertilization on soil characteristics and nutrient uptake of ratoon pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) in acid sulfate soil
Nguyen Quoc Khuong, Phan Chan Hiep, Le Thanh Quang, Ly Ngoc Thanh Xuan*
Faculty of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University
An Giang University, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City
Abstract
Ratoon pineapple is a type of pineapple that grows from the existing sucker of a former plant. In this way, the production cost can be decreased while the yield can be increased. Therefore, the study aimed to determine the effects of applying N, P, K, Ca, and Mg nutrients on soil features, nutrient uptake of ratoon pineapple, and its growth and yield. An omission plot trial was conducted on pineapple in acid sulfate soil following a completely randomized block design with 8 treatments and 4 replications each. The treatments included (i) NF: no fertilizer, (ii) NPKCaMg: N, P, K, Ca, and Mg fertilization, (iii) PKCaMg: no N fertilization, (iv) NKCaMg: no P fertilization, (v) NPCaMg: no K fertilization, (vi) NPKMg: no Ca fertilization, (vii) NPKCa: no Mg fertilization, (viii) LFF: local farmer fertilization. The result revealed that the PKCaMg treatment reduced N availability (NH4+) and the NKCaMg treatment reduced soluble P content in the soil, compared with the fertilized treatments. The NKCaMg treatment also reduced insoluble P compounds such as Al-P and Ca-P. Likewise, the NPKMg and NPKCa treatments decreased Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentrations in the soil. The treatments without N, P, K, Ca, or Mg reduced crown, pulp, core, peduncle, butt, and leaf biomass. The treatments without N, P, K, Ca, or Mg also decreased the corresponding nutrient uptake of pineapple. Pineapple yield went down by 28.5, 20.9, 20.1, and 20.1% when N, P, Ca, and Mg were omitted, respectively. The N, P, K, Ca, and Mg fertilizer formula was optimized as 462 N, 341 P2O5, 510 K2O, 1207 CaO, and 618 MgO kg ha-1.
Submitted: 20/09/2024 | Revised: 24/10/2024 | Accepted: 28/01/2025
Pages 342-350 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| Supplementary Data PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p239
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Genomic prediction of yield components in soybean under Asian soybean rust pressure for early-generation selection
Claudio Guilherme Portela de Carvalho*, Cosme Damião Cruz, Carlos Alberto Arrabal Arias, Aaron Joel Lorenz
Embrapa Soja, Londrina, PR, Brazil
Laboratório de Bioinformática, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, USA
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0394-3752
Abstract
Predicting the yield components of advanced lines based on the genotyping of plants in the initial generations can help to reduce the segregating lines that are carried forward in soybean breeding programs, especially for developing cultivars with high yields under Asian soybean rust (ASR) pressure. This study aimed to predict the average soybean yield components in the F2:3 and F2:5 families, as well as the top 50% lines of each F2:5 family [F2:5(50%] under ASR pressure based on genotyping of the F2 generation from a cross of two elite breeding lines. These lines have indeterminate growth habit and belong to maturity group 6. Phenotypes included seed yield per plant, 50-seed weight, days to maturity, and plant height. The genomic prediction models were G-BLUP, principal component regression, Bagging, and Bayes-Cπ. Bagging and Bayes-Cπ most often showed the highest predictive ability. Phenotyping of F2:3 as opposed to F2 only increased the predictive abilities of models for 50-seed weight. Phenotyping of F2:5 and F2:5 (50%) resulted in predictive abilities greater than 0.50 for all the traits. Therefore, F2 genotyping and genomic selection enabled prediction of soybean yield components in populations that are genetically similar to the target population and allowed optimizing the mechanical and financial resources of breeding programs to develop soybean cultivars with higher yields under ASR pressure.
Submitted: 01/10/2024 | Revised: 02/11/2024 | Accepted: 05/11/2025
Pages 351-360 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| Supplementary Data PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p251
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Forage yield of buffel grass (Pennisetum ciliare) using PHYGROW model in thinned Caatinga
Jefferson Ferreira de Freitas Feitosa*, José Morais Pereira Filho, Magno José Duarte Cândido, Jefta Ruama de Oliveira Figueiredo, Luiza Daiana Araújo da Silva Formiga, Olaf Andreas Bakke, Samuel Rocha Maranhão
Soil Science Department, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Campina Grande, Patos, Paraíba, Brazil
Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
Department of Chemistry and Biology, State University of Maranhão, Caxias, Maranhão, Brazil
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9438-1462
Abstract
Animal production in semi-arid regions relies heavily on natural and cultivated pastures, which are vulnerable due to the variability of rainfall. This study evaluated the PHYGROW model's ability to predict the forage yield of buffel grass (Pennisetum ciliare) in thinned Caatinga and assess production risk. The research was conducted in Santa Terezinha, Paraíba, Brazil, in an experimental area under a silvopastoral system (15-20% woody cover) enriched with buffel grass. Field data from studies conducted between 2008 and 2014 were used, and biomass yield was estimated using PHYGROW software. The model's results were analyzed statistically, and risk analysis was conducted using the concept of the natural guarantee of local production. The PHYGROW model showed high accuracy in predicting forage yield, estimating an annual dry matter yield of 1,862.7 kg/ha with 95% confidence. The findings suggest that this modeling approach is a valuable tool for improving farm planning in semi-arid regions, helping reduce reliance on empirical methods by linking yield predictions to a quantified risk factor.
Submitted: 01/10/2024 | Revised: 18/11/2024 | Accepted: 17/02/2025
Pages 361-368 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p255
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Influence of drying process variables on hot air convection drying characteristics of pale flesh white skin sweet potatoes
(Ipomoea batatas)
Aboubakar Compaore*, Salifou Ouedraogo, Honoré Kondia Ouoba, Fayçal Ilboudo, Bétaboalé Naon
Université Lédéa Bernard OUEDRAOGO (Ex Université de Ouahigouya), 01 BP 346 Ouahigouya 01, Région du Nord, Burkina Faso
Laboratoire de Physique et de Chimie de l’Environnement (LPCE), Ecole Doctorale Sciences et Technologie (ED-ST), Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Laboratoire de Matériaux de l’Héliophysique et Environnement (La.M.H.E.), Unité de Formation et de Recherche en Sciences Exactes et Appliquées (UFR/SEA), Université Nazi BONI, Bobo Dioulasso, BP 1091, Burkina Faso
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1105-4210
Abstract
Drying of spherical sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) with pale flesh and white skin (a newly introduced variety grown in Burkina Faso) was carried out at air temperatures of 50°C, 60°C, 70°C and 80°C using 2 and 3 cm diameter samples to study the influence of process variables including air temperature and sample diameter on drying characteristics. The results of the analyzed drying data indicated that moisture content was influenced by sample diameters and hot air-drying temperatures. Increasing air temperature and sample diameter resulted in reduced drying time for temperature influence and increased drying time for diameter influence. Effective moisture diffusivity decreased relatively with increasing moisture ratio value at all hot air temperatures. A polynomial of degree five was derived to correlate the effective moisture diffusivity with the moisture ratios of sweet potato spheres. The average effective moisture diffusivity increased as the air temperature and the diameter of the spherical sweet potato samples increased. The air temperature dependence of the average effective moisture diffusivity values was described by an Arrhenius-type equation. This dependence allowed the determination of the activation energy values of the spherical sweet potato. The activation energy values increased by 30.50 and 27.71 kJ/mol when the sample diameters varied from 2 to 3 cm.
Submitted: 01/11/2024 | Revised: 08/02/2025 | Accepted: 13/02/2025
Pages 369-377 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p257
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Impacts of corn flowering on estimation of evapotranspiration using remote sensing in Brazilian Savanna
Fillipe de Paula Almeida, José Alves Júnior*, Fábio Miguel Knapp, João Maurício Fernandes Souza, Antonio Heriberto de Castro Teixeira, Adão Wagner Pêgo Evangelista, Derblai Casaroli, Rafael Battisti
School of Agronomy, Department of Soil and Water, Federal University of Goiás (UFG), Zip code 74.690.900, Goiania, Goiás, Brazil
ORCID ID: 000-0002-1187-3
Abstract
Estimation of evapotranspiration using remote sensing is a promising and low-cost alternative, but there is a lack of studies to calibrate the algorithm for different crops and atmospheric conditions. In this context, the objective of the study was to evaluate the efficiency of the SAFER algorithm in estimating evapotranspiration of corn crops (ETa) in three different sources of surface albedo. The study was carried out in a corn (cultivar AG8700) production (March to Jully) area irrigated by central pivot in Itaberaí-GO, Brazil, in 2021. The region's climate is characterized as Aw, with two well-defined seasons, dry winter and rainy summer, and the soil was classified as Red Oxisol of medium texture. Images from a multispectral and thermal camera model MicaSense Altum and albedo images from the Landsat 8 (each 16 days) and Sentinel 2A (each 10 days) satellites were used to estimate the ETa using the SAFER algorithm. These data were compared with ETc (Crop evapotranspiration) obtained by FAO, Embrapa and climatological water balance methods based on statistical indices. In general, the best correlation with standard methods was the Drone method, mainly the FAO and BHC methods. On average, the EQM (mean square error) was less than 0.22 mm day-1. The agreement index ranged from 0.84 to 0.91. The largest errors were observed in phase III, due to contamination of albedo and NDVI pixels caused by screwing. This error was greater for the DroneLand and DroneSent methods. On average the EQM and EMA (mean absolute error) were close to 1 mm day-1, the confidence index was below 0.74 for all methods. Thus, the use of images from multispectral and thermal cameras proved to be a good tool for estimating evapotranspiration. Corn crop flowering interferes with the estimated values of NDVI and surface albedo, leading to greater underestimation. However, when drone images are used to calculate the three SAFER variables, this effect is mitigated. ETa estimation by remote sensing is not recommended for the reproductive phase of corn crop.
Submitted: 01/10/2024 | Revised: 08/11/2024 | Accepted:17/02/2025
Pages 378-387 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p260
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Planting densities and growing times of tomato cultivars for industrial processing in the climatic conditions of the Cerrado of Goiás (Brazilian Savanna)
Adão Wagner Pêgo Evangelista, José Alves Júnior*, Ricardo de Souza Bezerra, Derblai Casaroli
School of Agronomy, Department of Soil and Water, Federal University of Goiás (UFG), Zip code 74.690.900, Goiania, Goiás, Brazil
Abstract
The tomato planting density for industrial processing is usually 30 thousand plants ha-1 in Goiás region, to any hybrids and planting times. However, this is a topic that farmers still have many doubts about it. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the response of different hybrids, grown in different planting densities and growing seasons. For this, six experiments were conducted in 2017, in Abadia de Goiás, Brazil, three experiments in season 1 (April-August), and three experiments in season 2 (May-October), for three hybrids: N-901, U-2006 and CVR- 2909, and five planting densities: 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 thousand plants ha-1, and five replications (experimental design randomized complete blocks) and the total fresh mass of the fruits was collected to determine the production per plant (kg.plant-1) and total productivity (t ha-1). There was a significant interaction between planting densities and hybrids for all production factors evaluated. The total and commercial productivity of the hybrids CVR-2909 and N-901 responded quadratically to the evaluated planting densities, and the yields presented by the U-2006 hybrid did not respond to variations in planting densities. The plants of the hybrid U-2006 are small in size with more compact growth compared to the plants of the other hybrids evaluated, which probably confers a lower leaf area index and, consequently, a lower rate of photosynthesis due to the lower interception of solar radiation. The total productivity of hybrid N-901 when cultivated in season 1 (autumn-winter) was 28.6% lower than the total productivity of cultivation in season 2 (winter-spring). The hybrid U-2006 presents the lowest productive performance among the other hybrids evaluated and its productivity does not respond to the variation in planting density between 20 thousand plants ha-1 and 40 thousand plants ha-1. The yields of the hybrids CVR-2909 and N-901 respond positively to the increase in planting density up to 40 thousand plants ha-1.
Submitted: 05/10/2024 | Revised: 06/11/2024 | Accepted: 13/02/2025
Pages 388-397 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p264
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Morphological, physiological and rice yield in lowland and upland under drought stress
Suhadi Sapto Yuwono, Iskandar Lubis*, Munif Ghulamahdi, Endah Retno Palupi
Graduates Student Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
National Agricultural Training Center of Lampung, Ministry of Agricultural, Indonesia
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5326-8519
Abstract
Drought is a significant factor contributing to the reduction in rice production. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the morphological, physiological, and yield responses of rice under lowland and upland planting methods subjected to drought treatment. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using a split-plot design with 3 replications. The main plot was water regime treatments, while the subplot was rice varieties. Water regimes included 4 levels, namely lowland planting method (T1), lowland planting method with drought treatment (T2), upland planting method (T3), and upland planting method with drought treatment (T4). Drought stress treatment was applied at 55 DAP (days after planting) by stopping watering until the plants showed a leaf rolling score of level 9 (leaf fully rolled) based on standard evaluation system for rice by IRRI. The plant materials used were 4 rice varieties, such as IPB 3S, Inpago 10, IPB 9G, and IR 64 respectively. The results showed that water regime treatments led to reduced plant height, root volume, and root weight. In upland planting method, IPB 9G produced the longest root length of 78.0 cm. Furthermore, the number of productive tillers and root length showed no significant differences under the treatment. Chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance, and intercellular CO2 levels were significantly affected by drought. Flowering age, panicle length, grains per panicle, and the weight of 100 grains were also affected. Based on observation, Inpago 10 had a faster flowering age of 90.33 DAP. The highest panicle length, grains per panicle, and rice yield per pot were produced by IPB 9G, suggesting the potential for cultivation in lowland, upland, and drought-affected environments.
Submitted: 05/10/2024 | Revised: 18/12/2024 | Accepted: 20/02/2025
Pages 398-407 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p266
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Damage to eucalyptus stumps due to machinery and positioning of tree bundles during timber harvesting
Joyce Luize Caetano de Oliveira, Felipe Martins de Oliveira, Antonio Ozenilto de Sousa Lima, Eduardo da Silva Lopes*
Department of Forestry Engineering, Midwestern State University, Irati, Brazil
Abstract
The positioning of tree bundles within the forest stand can influence the movement of machinery during timber harvesting, causing damage to the stumps and reducing sprouting during stump management. This study aimed to assess the damage caused by timber harvesting machinery to the remaining stumps in planted eucalyptus forests based on the angle of tree bundle arrangement. The research was conducted at a forestry company in the southern region of São Paulo state, in a hybrid stand of 9-year-old Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla, in the first rotation or cutting cycle, using a feller buncher and skidder. Damage to the stumps caused by machines based on tree bundle angles of 17º and 45º was assessed through measurements of the stumps after timber harvesting. The following quality parameters were evaluated: height, soil and/or forest residue coverage, tearing, peeling, and shearing. The data were analysed using a completely randomized design, with two treatments and eight repetitions composed of sub-plots with 20 stumps, compared using Student's t-test at a 5% probability level. Results showed that, at both tree bundle angles, the stump height was within the reference value of 10 to 15 cm. Similarities in physical damage to the stumps were observed with tree bundles arranged at both angles. The highest occurrence of damage was shearing, with 35.1% of stumps affected at the 17º angle and 19.2% at the 45º angle. The 45º angle of the bundled trees in the moment of timber harvesting at the flat terrain conditions facilitated the machines movements, reducing the stump damage and improving the shoot development and sprouting rates for the stand under the stump management regime.
Submitted: 17/11/2024 | Revised: 02/02/2025 | Accepted: 20/02/2025
Pages 408-415 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p286
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Response of different tomato hybrids for industrial processing (TCP 26116, CVR-8161, N-901, HM-7885 and CVR-9145) to irrigation management and planting seasons in Brazilian Savanna
Juliana Carla Carvalho dos Santos, José Alves Júnior*, Fabio Miguel Knap, Ricardo de Souza Bezerra, Fernando Rezende da Costa, Derblai Casaroli, Adão Wagner Pêgo Evangelista
School of Agronomy, Department of Soil and Water, Federal University of Goiás (UFG), Zip code 74.690.900, Goiania, Goiás, Brazil
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1187-3275
Abstract
The second most cultivated vegetable in the world is the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), with Brazil being one of the countries with the largest production in the world, at 4 million tons annually. The socioeconomic importance is quite relevant on the national scene, since the state of Goiás is the largest national producer, responsible for 37% of total tomato production in 2021. The objective of this work was to evaluate the response of five tomato hybrids for industrial processing to the correct management of transparency and its influences on productivity and quality of production in two credit periods that are allowed in the state of Goiás, the 1st season: April to August (beginning of the dry season) and the 2nd season: June to September (end of the dry season). The trial was installed in an experimental arrangement in randomized blocks, in two periods, with five commercial hybrids (TCP 26116, CVR-8161, N-901, HM-7885 and CVR-9145) and four replications, totaling 20 experimental plots. Irrigation management was carried out following the recommendations of the Irrigatomate software. Soil sensors at three different depths were installed in the plots to monitor soil water content. Meteorological monitoring was carried out at the Irriplus 5000 station installed 50 meters from the experiment. The morphological characters were plant height, number of branches and number of leaves and at the end of the cycle, total productivity, commercial productivity, total soluble solids (brix degree) and savings yield were evaluated according to industry criteria. The data were tabulated with all assumptions of normality and linearity, then subjected to analysis of variance using the F test, using the SAS “Statistical Analysis System” program, with the means being compared with each other using the Tukey test, at a 5% error probability level. It was found that the five hybrids showed better responses in the first growing season. The CVR 8161 hybrid had higher total productivity, commercial productivity and higher pulp yield, in addition to the Brix degree being in the ideal range due to the proposed management. It is also concluded that the irrigation management used by the Irrigatomate software is independent of the hybrid.
Submitted: 09/10/2024 | Revised: 16/11/2024 | Accepted: 19/02/2025
Pages 416-422 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p295
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First report of paraquat-resistance Conyza sumatrensis in Bolivia and efficacy of herbicides for its control
Lucas Vitorio*, Jorge Torrez Arteaga, José Saavedra-Avila
Crop Protection Development, Syngenta Bolivia, Santa Cruz, Bolivia
Centro de Investigación Agrícola Tropical, Santa Cruz, Bolivia
3Colegio de Postgraduados, Departament of Genetics, Mexico
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2143-0339
Abstract
Conyza sumatrensis is one of the main weeds affecting extensive agricultural crops in the department of Santa Cruz, Bolivia, causing yield losses due to difficulties in control with herbicides used in conventional management. In 2020, isolated Conyza sp. plants were detected in the town of San Pedro, raising suspicions of resistance to the herbicide paraquat. Subsequently, this phenomenon was observed in other regions. The objectives of this study were to determine the resistance of C. sumatrensis to paraquat and to evaluate the efficacy of different herbicides for its management. To this end, two greenhouse trials were conducted in 2023. The first experiment consisted of dose-response bioassays on whole plants using paraquat, while the second trial tested the herbicides 2,4-D, dicamba, fluroxypyr, and paraquat at doses of 720, 240, and 100 g ae ha⁻¹, and 400 g ai ha⁻¹, respectively. The dose-response analysis revealed a high resistance index (RI) in the Cuatro Cañadas biotype (R), with an RI of 24.8 compared to the Yapacaní biotype (S). The herbicides 2,4-D and dicamba proved to be effective for managing this weed. This study presents the first report of C. sumatrensis resistance to paraquat in Bolivia and proposes alternative herbicides for its control. Integrated weed management strategies should be implemented to mitigate resistance cases and delay the development of resistance to currently effective herbicides.
Submitted: 09/12/2024 | Revised: 19/02/2025 | Accepted: 25/02/2025
Pages 423-428 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p299
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Water deficit, fertigation, and bio-inputs in sugarcane cultivation: a scientometric review and practical recommendations
Bianca Soares Pierre, Derblai Casaroli*, José Alves Júnior, Adão Wagner Pêgo Evangelista, Rilner Alves Flores, Itamar Rosa Teixeira
Postgraduate Program in Agronomy, Climate and Water Resources area, Federal University of Goiás (UFG), Brazil
Department of Biosystems Engineering, Agrometeorology area, UFG, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
Department of Soil, Plant Nutrition area, UFG, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
Department of Agricultural Engineering, Production Technology area, UEG, Anápolis, GO, Brazil
ORCID ID:https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8041-0066
Abstract
Brazil is the world's leading producer of sugarcane (FAO, 2020). However, certain production regions face periods of severe water deficit and are characterized by low-fertility soils. Research highlights the importance of irrigation and fertigation as effective strategies to improve growth and productivity. Simultaneously, bio-inputs have emerged as a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical fertilizers. This study aims to evaluate research trends on water deficit, fertigation, and bio-inputs in sugarcane cultivation, and to provide recommendations for optimal outcomes. A comprehensive search of the Scopus database was conducted using the following keywords: "water stress" OR "water deficit" AND "sugarcane"; sugarcane AND "fertirrigation*" OR "fertigation*"; sugarcane AND "fertirrigation*" OR "fertigation*" AND "water" AND "deficit*"; sugarcane AND "bioinputs". The scientometric analysis considered the year, journal, and geographic distribution of publications. Recommendations are based on articles published in the last decade, focusing on irrigation depth, fertilizer types and dosages, and bio-inputs. A notable rise in publications, particularly from Brazil and India, has been observed over time. High yields (≥100 Mg ha-1) were reported even under water deficit conditions (50% ETc). The most recommended fertilizer rates were 60–120 kg ha-1 of nitrogen and 130–320 kg ha-1 of K₂O. One study on bio-inputs demonstrated a 10.7% increase in productivity compared to mineral fertilizers, with phosphate-solubilizing micro-fertilizers being the most commonly used bio-fertilizers.
Submitted: 20/11/2024 | Revised: 24/12/2024 | Accepted: 20/02/2025
Pages 429-435 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p303
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Effects of varying electrical conductivity levels on plant growth, yield, and photosynthetic parameters of Tochiotome strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa 'Tochiotome) in a greenhouse
Nguyen Quoc Hung, Nguyen Thi Thanh Nga*, Vu Phong Lam*
Fruit and Vegetable Research Institute, Ha Noi 12400, Vietnam
Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, Tay Bac University, Son La 360000, Vietnam
Faculty of Heath Sciense, Tay Bac University, Son La 360000, Vietnam
Abstract
This study aimed to identify the salinity threshold affecting plant health and optimal conditions for sustainable strawberry cultivation in greenhouses. By identifying the optimal EC range that promotes plant growth while minimizing salinity stress, this study offers strategies to mitigate the negative effects of salinity on crop production. This study was conducted in a hydroponic system, where strawberries were irrigated with different EC levels (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, and 8.0 dS·m⁻¹) using Hoagland nutrient solutions. We applied irrigation treatments with different electrical conductivity (EC) levels to evaluate their effects on the growth, yield, and photosynthetic performance of Fragaria × ananassa ‘Tochiotome’ strawberries. The crown and leaf fresh weights, root length, individual fruit weight, leaf area, SPAD values (chlorophyll content), Brix percentage (fruit sweetness), and overall yield were measured. The results showed that EC influenced water uptake, nutrient availability, and physiological aspects of the plant. The EC levels above 6.0 dS·m⁻¹ significantly reduced crown and leaf fresh weights due to osmotic stress and nutrient imbalances, negatively affecting biomass accumulation. Root length also decreased at higher EC levels, indicating compromised root growth, while individual fruit weight was declined likely due to impaired nutrient uptake. In contrast, leaf area, SPAD values (chlorophyll content indicator), and Brix percentage (fruit sweetness) remained stable, suggesting resilience in some plant traits. Yield was declined at both high and low EC levels, which might be attributed to a reduced fruit size and nutrient uptake limitations. Moderate salinity levels (2.0–4.0 dS·m⁻¹) initially improved photosynthetic parameters, but higher levels (6.0–8.0 dS·m⁻¹) reduced photosynthetic efficiency. These results suggest that maintaining the EC between 2.0 and 4.0 dS·m⁻¹ optimizes plant growth and photosynthesis, whereas deviations above or below this range may lead to salinity stress or nutrient deficiencies.
Submitted: 20/12/2024 | Revised: 24/02/2025 | Accepted: 26/02/2025
Pages 436-441 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p322
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Maximizing production of Pleurotus ostreatus (Oyster) in Tanzania
Washa Bugalama Washa
University of Dar es Salaam, Mkwawa College, Department of Biological Sciences, P.O.Box 2513, Iringa, Tanzania
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1707-9168
Abstract
Pleurotus ostreatum is a nutritive and medicinal mushroom. A study to maximize production of the previous results from the previous study was conducted. A four-treatment setup with four replicates was established to maximize previous results of Pleurotus ostreatum. In this setup, substrate ratios and greenhouse materials used as control (T0) were kept constant across all treatments, while growth conditions (T1-T4) varied from one treatment to another Sterilized substrates were packaged in 150 sterilized plastic bags of 2 kg each. Pleurotus ostreatum spores were inoculated and lightly watered for 30 days for mycelia sprouting. The number and percentage of mycelia sprouting were recorded over three months. Data were analyzed using SPSS, where ANOVA and post hoc tests were conducted. The results indicated the highest mycelial sprouting percentage and sprouting number in T4 (92% and 351, respectively), while T1 exhibited the highest Biological Efficiency Index (BEI) of 7.5. Significant differences between treatments were observed for both mycelia sprouting percentage and sprouting number (p<0.001, df=3, and p<0.001, df=3, respectively). Maximization was successful as sprouting increased from 17% in previous research to 92% and the sprouting number from 173 to 351. Despite T4 showing absolute sprouting metrics, it suggests that T1 is more efficient in the sprouting process, while T4 conditions are more effective for mushroom production. Optimized growth condition in T4 (80% humidity, 21oC and pH 7.5), substrate ratios (20:20:5:5:5) and greenhouse materials (palm fronds) contributed to this maximization and are recommended for use in Songea.
Submitted: 12/01/2025 | Revised: 25/02/2025 | Accepted: 25/03/2025
Pages 442-448 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p331
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Carbon flux and net primary production in mineral soil-based tropical agricultural land: a study case corn and peanut crops
Hermanu Widjaja, Suwardi*, Dyah Tjahyandari Suryaningtyas, Putri Oktariani, Vecky Dwi, Kuswandora
Department of Soil Science and Land Resources, Faculty of Agriculture, IPB University, Indonesia
BiOWiSH Technologies International, Inc 2717 Erie Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45208, United States
Center for Mine Reclamation Studies, International Research Institute for Environment and Climate Change, IPB University, Indonesia
Abstract
Agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and crop management practices can influence carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) emissions. This study aimed to evaluated the crop yield and carbon fluxes of corn and peanut crops. The research was conducted from November to June during the dry season in Ranca Bungur District, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia, where we monitored soil CO2 and CH4 fluxes alongside Net Primary Production (NPP) in corn and peanut fields. Carbon flux was measured using the closed chamber method, and NPP was calculated by multiplying the total plant biomass at harvest by its carbon content. The result showed that the corn field had higher CO2 emissions (4.35 ± 1.09 g C-CO2 m-2 d-1) compared to the peanut field (2.59 ± 0.71 g C-CO2 m-2 d-1), while CH4 emissions were low in both fields but slightly higher in the peanut field (0.26 ± 0.69 mg C-CH4 m-2 d-1) than in the corn field (0.08 ± 0.46 mg C-CH4 m-2 d-1). Furthermore, the study found that corn had a higher NPP than peanuts, resulting in a positive correlation between carbon emission and NPP in both fields. The study suggests that increasing NPP could reduce carbon emissions and fix more carbon into the system.
Submitted: 11/09/2024 | Revised: 04/11/2024 | Accepted: 13/02/2025
Pages 449-457 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p227
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Shorea Khaswarina, Eliza
Agribusiness study program, Faculty of Agriculture, Riau University, Indonesia
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0194-9643
Abstract
Income distribution is an analysis being used to assess the extent of income sharing within a specific social or economic class of people. Income distribution is usually assessed by identifying various sources of income of sample farmers, namely income from rubber farming, non-rubber farming income and non-agricultural income. This study was conducted on household income of rubber farmers in Kuapan Village, Tambang District, Kampar Regency. 50 rubber farmers were sampled, divided into two groups, namely non-owner tapping farmers (15 farmers) and tapping farmers who were also owners (35 farmers). The sample was identified using proportionate stratified random sampling and snowball sampling. Based on the results of the study, there was no income inequality in either the group of non-owner tapping farmers or the group of tapping farmers who were also owners, with a combined Gini ratio of 0.19, reflecting a relatively equitable income distribution. Economic viability analysis that was assessed using Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), demonstrated that rubber farming remains financially feasible, yielding an NPV of IDR 457,197,858 and an IRR of 31.49%. Income equity among the farmers was attributed to: (1) tapping farmers have other income besides rubber farming; (2) non-owner tapping farmers benefit from a profit-sharing system with a ratio of 1:2; (3) tapping farmers who are also owners have to pay maintenance and land clearing costs; and (4) non-owner tapping farmers only incur costs for tools and operational materials. To further reduce income inequality and enhance economic viability among smallholder rubber farmers, the study recommends implementing integrated strategies such as promoting income diversification, enhancing profit-sharing arrangements, capacity building through extension services, stabilizing market prices, investing in infrastructure and appropriate technology, and improving financial support and access to credit.
Submitted: 11/01/2025 | Revised: 31/03/2025 | Accepted: 02/04/2025
Pages 458-465 | Read Atricle| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.04.p358