Zinc biofortification in upland rice: from paddy rice to white rice
Felipe Pereira Cardoso, Yasmin Vasques Berchembrock, Camila Soares Cardoso da Silva Reis, Filipe Aiura Namorato, Fábio Aurélio Dias Martins, Luiz Roberto Guimarães Guilherme, Isadora Guedes, Janine Magalhães Guedes Simão, Flávia Barbosa Silva Botelho*
Department of Biology, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Minas Gerais 37203-202, Brazil
Department of Agriculture, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Minas Gerais 37203-202, Brazil
Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Minas Gerais 37203-202, Brazil
Agricultural Research Company of Minas Gerais, Lavras, Minas Gerais 37200-970, Brazil
Abstract: Hidden hunger affects approximately two billion people worldwide, with zinc (Zn) deficiency being one of the most prevalent mineral deficiencies, impacting around 1.2 billion individuals and leading to severe health disorders. Despite its widespread consumption and nutritional importance, rice (Oryza sativa L.) naturally contains low levels of Zn, limiting its contribution to human dietary needs. This study aimed to assess the genetic variability and Zn absorption potential in elite upland rice lines after agronomic biofortification, under different processing conditions. Five lines from the upland rice breeding program were evaluated in two environments, contrasting in terms of zinc content in the soil (2,70 and 1,20 mg dm-3), using a 5 × 2 factorial scheme in a randomized block design with three replications. The traits assessed included plant height, 1000 grain weight, grain yield, germination, and Zn content in paddy, brown, and white rice. Genetic variability in Zn accumulation was observed, with the ERF 85-15 line reaching 47.39 mg kg⁻¹ in brown rice and 35.25 mg kg⁻¹ in white rice. The estimated contribution of ERF 85-15 to daily Zn intake, based on a global per capita rice consumption of 147,7g day-1 was 63.6% for brown and 47.4% for white rice. These findings highlight the potential of genetic and agronomic biofortification as sustainable strategies to combat Zn deficiency without requiring changes in consumer habits.
Submitted: 1 July 2025 | Revised: 16 March 2026 | Accepted 16 April 2026
Pages 345-351 | Read Article| Full Text PDF| Supplementary Data PDF| https://doi. org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.05. pne65
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Harnessing weaver ants for sustainable pest management in agriculture: A systematic review
Moses I. Olotu
Department of Biological Sciences, Mkwawa University College of Education (MUCE), University of Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 2513, Iringa
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000- 0001-9129-4769
Abstract: Weaver ants are increasingly recognised as effective biological control agents for sustainable pest management. They include the African weaver ant, Oecophylla longinoda Latreille, found in sub-Saharan Africa and the green tree ant, O. smaragdina Fabricius, which is common in Southeast Asia and Australia. Native to their regions, both species are arboreal, territorial and aggressive predators that support sustainable pest management in tropical and subtropical tree-based agroecosystems. They are traditionally used in perennial tree crops to provide a natural alternative to synthetic chemical pesticides, contributing to environmentally friendly farming practices. This review employed a systematic literature review (SLR) approach, guided by the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) framework to identify, screen and assess studies on weaver ants. It synthesises current scientific literature and field-based evidence on the use of weaver ants in integrated pest management (IPM) programmes. The review examines the ecological roles of weaver ants in pest management, biodiversity enhancement and overall ecosystem health. It also highlights economic benefits such as increased yields, improved crop quality and access to higher-value markets. However, the large-scale use of weaver ants faces challenges, including difficulties in colony propagation and a limited understanding of interspecific interactions. Key knowledge gaps remain in colony establishment, long-term ecological impacts and the scalability of ant-based biological control in commercial farming. This review also highlights future research priorities to optimise the use of weaver ants. As an underutilised biological resource, these ants offer strong potential to enhance the resilience, productivity and sustainability of tropical agriculture.
Submitted: 19 August 2025 | Revised: 05 December 2025 | Accepted: 02 April 2026
Pages 352-358 | Read Article| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.05.pne101
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Morphophysiological, anatomical, and biomass allocation responses of oil palm seedlings subjected to long-term waterlogging stress
Yan Sukmawan, Ahmad Juneadi*, Hariyadi, Supijatno, Lilik Budi Prasetyo
Program of Agronomy and Horticulture, Graduate School, Faculty of Agriculture, IPB University, Bogor 16680, Indonesia
Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, IPB University, Bogor 16680, Indonesia
Department of Forest Resources Conservation and Ecotourism, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, IPB University, Bogor 16680, Indonesia
Estate Crop Department, Politeknik Negeri Lampung, Bandar Lampung 35144, Indonesia
Abstract: Increasing rainfall variability and prolonged waterlogging due to climate change pose significant challenges to oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) growth and physiological stability in lowland plantation areas. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the morphophysiological, anatomical, and biomass allocation responses of oil palm subjected to long-term waterlogging stress. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications, using four waterlogging treatments, namely 43 cm (control), 30 cm (shallow waterlogging), 15 cm (moderate waterlogging), and 0 cm (severe waterlogging) below the soil surface, applied to twelve-month-old seedlings for 26 weeks. The waterlogging level in each treatment was maintained at a constant level through daily checks and adjustments to compensate for evaporation. Observations included vegetative growth traits, leaf physiology and water status, leaf anatomical and stomatal behavior, root anatomical adaptations, and dry biomass allocation. The results showed that control and shallow waterlogging (43 and 30 cm) supported optimal growth, physiological performance, anatomical, and biomass accumulation. Moderate waterlogging (15 cm) initiated declines in growth and physiology, along with early signs of anatomical adaptation. Severe waterlogging (0 cm) reduced stomatal function, leaflet anatomical changes, lower shoot biomass, and enhanced aerenchyma and pneumatophore development. The correlation and principal component analyses confirmed that integrated morphophysiological and anatomical adjustments were critical for enhancing oil palm tolerance to waterlogging stress. The strong negative relationship between stomatal aperture and aerenchyma formation throughout the root depth suggests a coordinated response between physiological regulation and anatomical adaptation. These anatomical adaptations, particularly the formation of aerenchyma and pneumatophores, are recognized as key factors enhancing oil palm tolerance to severe waterlogging stress.
Submitted: 19 August 2025 | Revised: 19 October 2025 | Accepted: 11 December 2025
Pages 359-370 | Read Article| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.05.pne107
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Interactive effects of pre-planting soil moisture and early-stage deficit irrigation on rainfed sugarcane establishment in contrasting soil types
Anupong Wongtamee, Suphannika Intanon*, Supansa Chinaworn
Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
Center of Knowledge and Technology for Cane and Sugar, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Kasetsart University, 50 Ngamwongwan Road, Ladyao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Department of Plant Production Technology, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-Ok, Bangpra Campus, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0006-5890-7328
Abstract: Uneven rainfall and early‐season drought threaten sugarcane productivity in rainfed systems. Improving pre-planting soil moisture and early-stage irrigation can enhance water productivity and resilience. This study examined the effects of pre-planting soil moisture and deficit irrigation on sugarcane establishment, growth, and yield in contrasting soil types. A factorial field experiment (3 × 3 RCBD) was conducted in clay and sandy loam soils to evaluate the effects of soil moisture and deficit irrigation. Measurements included germination and emergence percentage, plant height, leaf area index (LAI), chlorophyll content (SPAD), and yield components. Two-budded setts (stem cuttings) of sugarcane cultivar “Khon Kaen 3 (KK3)” were planted in each plot to ensure uniform germination and vigor. In clay soil, 80% FC with full irrigation (DI0) accelerated emergence (6-7 days) and achieved >85% germination, whereas 30% FC × DI60 delayed emergence by six days and reduced germination of buds from planted setts to ~64%, decreasing cane and sugar yields by ≈20%. Moderate deficits (DI30) improved water efficiency without yield loss. Maintaining high residual soil moisture with full or moderate irrigation during establishment enhances water productivity and resilience in water-limited sugarcane systems.
Submitted: 02 September 2025 | Revised: 20 January 2026 | Accepted: 24 April 2026
Pages 371-379 | Read Article| Full Text PDF| Supplementary Data PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.05.pne122
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Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles and effectiveness of seed nanopriming in improving vigor and health of soybean seeds
Subhan Arridho, Satriyas Ilyas*, Tri Asmira Damayanti, Eny Widajati, Abdul Qadir, Akhiruddin Maddu
Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Bogor Agricultural University, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia
Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Bogor Agricultural University, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia
Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Bogor Agricultural University, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia
Department of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Islamic University of Riau, Pekanbaru, Riau, Indonesia
Abstract: Soybean seeds deteriorate rapidly and are infected by many seed-borne fungi, which reduce seed quality. Biosynthesized nanoparticles are believed to be an environmentally safe approach for increasing seed quality. This study aimed to develop a biosynthetic formulation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and test its effectiveness in improving the physiological and health qualities of soybean seeds. AgNPs were synthesized by mixing 1 mM AgNO3 solution and neem leaf extract (9:1 v/v). AgNPs characterization was performed using UV-vis spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy. Seed priming treatments were tested for evaluation of seed viability and vigor: control, hydropriming, and AgNPs priming (4, 8, 12, and 15 ppm). The treatments applied for the evaluation of seed health were control, AgNO3 priming (4, 9, 13, and 17 ppm), and AgNPs priming (4, 8, 12, and 15 ppm). The experiments used a completely randomized design. The results showed that the absorbance peak of AgNPs was at λ=414 nm, with a z-average of 43.9 nm and a PDI of 0.322, and the particles were spherical. Seed nanopriming with 15 ppm AgNPs is recommended to improve soybean seed viability and vigor.
Pages 380-388 | Read Article| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.05.pne125
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Comparative pathogenicity of Fusarium species isolated from rhizomes and roots of Iris germanica
Nouha ACHAJRI, Boutaina KERROUM, Soukaina TAYOU, Hanane EL KAISSOUMI, Khadija AHAYOUN, Ahmed FKYERAT, Allal DOUIRA, Amina OUAZZANI TOUHAMI
Laboratory of Botany, Biotechnology and Plant Protection, Ibn Tofail University, Bp: 242, Kenitra, Morocco
Cadi Ayyad University, Laboratory of Excellence in Agrobiotechnology and Bioengineering, AgroBiotech Center, CNRST-Labeled Research Unit (URL05-CNRST), Marrakech, 40.000, Morocco
IRIS AGRO SARL, sis à angle Av. Youssef Ibn Tachafine et Av. Al Istiqlal Résidence Anass I, Appt N° 6, Kenitra, Morocco
Abstract: Iris germanica is a valuable ornamental plant with applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and perfume industries. However, its production is threatened by fungal diseases, particularly those caused by Fusarium species. The objective of this study was to investigate the pathogenicity of different Fusarium spp. isolates via rhizome inoculation, with emphasis on symptom development, isolate aggressiveness, and consequent damage to the host plant. During this study, thirteen isolates belonging to Fusarium oxysporum, F. solani, and Fusarium sp. were obtained from rhizomes and roots of Iris plants collected in the Taza region of Morocco. Pathogenicity tests revealed that all isolates, except S4, induced leaf wilting in rhizomes three months after inoculation, with a wilting index ranging from 30.55 to 50%. Deep brown necrosis and partial root breakdown were observed. The isolate RIZ2B caused the most severe root rot (score 3), while isolates RIZ21, RIZ31, RZ32, RZ26, SP14, R33, and SP21 showed moderate pathogenicity (score 2). All isolates significantly reduced the agronomic performance of I. germanica plants. The number of leaves in plants inoculated with the different Fusarium isolates showed a significant reduction compared to an average of 7.66 in the control, with reductions of 73.89% (RZ32) and 65.27% (R'12, RZ'1, S4, RIZ21), and 60.83% (SP21). In vitro assays, isolate SP14 achieved 100% colonization of rhizome slices, whereas RIZ2B exhibited the highest sporulation rate (0.32 × 10⁶ spores/mm²). Overall, the results demonstrate that Fusarium species, particularly F. oxysporum, severely compromise rhizome health and quality, underscoring the urgent need for effective management strategies to control Fusarium-induced diseases in Iris germanica.
Submitted: 11 September 2025 | Revised: 20 December 2025 | Accepted: 06 January 2026
Pages 389-398 | Read Article| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.05.pne143
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Prioritization of pesticides used in sugar beet crop in a semi-arid region of Morocco
Majda Ouhajjou*, Mohamed Edahbi, Taoufik El Rasafi, Hanaa Hachimi, Abdelmajid Haddioui
Laboratory of Agro-Industrial and Medical Biotechnologies, Faculty of Science and Techniques, University of Sultan Moulay Slimane, Beni Mellal, Morocco
Higher School of Technology (ESTFBS), Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal, Morocco
Health and Environment Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences Ain Chock, Hassan II University, Casablanca, B.P 5366, Maarif, Casablanca, Morocco
Laboratory of Advanced Systems Engineering, National School of Applied Sciences ENSA, Ibn Tofail University Campus, Kenitra 14000, Morocco
Abstract: Non-ecological and intensive agriculture is one of the main sources of drinking water contamination by pesticides. The impacts of pesticides on water quality are unknown for the majority of used pesticides and their detection is based on monitoring studies. However, these studies are confronted with the choice of pesticides to monitor in priority and the cost and time necessary to carry out such studies. This study aims to generate a list of priority pesticides for surface water and groundwater quality monitoring. To meet this objective, the pesticide prioritization approach adopted in this study is based on pesticide use data for sugar beet in the irrigated perimeter of Tadla in central Morocco, in combination with pesticide mobility and toxicity data accessible through the Pesticide Properties Database. Five indices are calculated to characterize and classify each pesticide from the initial list: quantity index, environmental exposure potential, toxicity potential, hazard potential, and weighted toxicity potential. This approach resulted in a final list of 16 pesticides. The ethofumesate, lenacil, and cyproconazole were identified as the pesticides with the most toxic effects on human health based on toxicity potential. Lenacil and metamitron are the pesticides with the highest risk based on hazard potential. The pesticides chlorpyrifos-ethyl, metamitron, lenacil, ethofumesate, phenmedipham and tefluthrin were identified with the highest weighted toxicity potential. The final list of priority pesticides obtained can serve as a basis for establishing a program to monitor pesticide residues in surface and groundwater in this intensive agricultural area.
Submitted: 06 October 2025 | Revised: 22 December 2025 | Accepted: 21 March 2026
Pages 399-411 | Read Article| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.05.pne149
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Effects of zinc application on seed physiological quality in Ciherang rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivar
Agustiansyah*, Paul Benyamin Timotiwu, Kuswanta Futas Hidayat, Qudus Sabha Adhinugraha, Wawan Abdullah Setiawan, David Chandra
Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Lampung, Prof. Dr. Sumantri Brojonegoro Street No. 1, Bandar Lampung, 35141, Lampung, Indonesia
Department of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Lampung, Prof. Dr. Sumantri Brojonegoro Street No. 1, Bandar Lampung, 35141, Lampung, Indonesia
Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Lampung, Prof. Dr. Sumantri Brojonegoro Street No. 1, Bandar Lampung, 35141, Lampung, Indonesia
ORCID ID: 0000-0002-7681-9077
Abstract: Most research related to the role of zinc in improving the physiological quality of rice seeds still focuses on the germination aspect, while studies utilizing molecular approaches are still relatively limited. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of zinc application on the physiological and molecular quality of Ciherang rice seeds. The experiment was conducted using a randomized block design with seven treatments: Priming with distilled water (control); priming with solution (PS) 0.07% ZnSO4; PS 1% Urea + 0.5% ZnSO4; spraying with solution (SS) 0.07% ZnSO4; SS 1% Urea + 0.5% ZnSO4; PS 0.07% ZnSO4 + SS 0.07% ZnSO4; and PS 1% Urea + 0.5% ZnSO4 + SS 1% Urea + 0.5% ZnSO4. The results showed that zinc treatment did not cause a significant increase in germination percentage or germination rate compared to the control, but had a positive effect on seed vigor, particularly on vigor index and plumule length. The combination of zinc and urea treatments produced a more consistent improvement in seedling vigor, indicating a synergistic interaction between zinc and nitrogen.
Pages 412-418 | Read Article| Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.05.pne210