Quality of Coffea canephora seedlings: influence of genotype, auxin and time of orthotropic branches collection
Hérica Chisté, Vinicius de Souza Oliveira*, Jeane Crasque, Wilgner Fernandes Paradizo, Johnatan Jair de Paula Marchiori, Simone Alves Fernandes, Lúcio de Oliveira Arantes, Edilson Romais Schmildt, José Altino Machado Filho, Ana Júlia Câmara Jeveaux-Machado, Carla da Silva Dias, Sara Dousseau-Arantes*
Federal University of Espírito Santo, North University Center of Espírito Santo, São Mateus, ES -Brazil
Federal University of Espírito Santo- Center for Human and Natural Sciences, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
Capixaba Institute of Research, Technical Assistance and Rural Extension, Linhares, ES, Brazil
Homeoplant, Pinheiros, ES-Brazil
Abstract: The quality of conilon coffee seedlings produced is influenced by genetic variability among clones, the time of cutting collection, and the low concentration of endogenous auxin. The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of seedlings of five conilon coffee genotypes produced by vegetative propagation through orthotropic branches (cuttings) with different concentrations of auxin (indole-3-butyric acid - IBA) and different times of cutting collection. The experiment was conducted in a nursery in the municipality of Linhares, Espírito Santo state, Brazil, in a randomized block design. The experiment consisted of five conilon coffee genotypes (A1, LB1, 143, 02, and 748) and concentrations of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA: 0, 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 mg L⁻¹) and two cutting collection periods, summer (December) and winter (June). The cutting collection period played a crucial role in seedling bud formation, with cuttings collected in winter (June) showing a 72% reduction in bud formation in genotype 748. Genotype 143 exhibited limited bud development, regardless of the collection period. IBA was effective in improving the performance of cuttings collected in summer, especially at a dose of 959 mg L⁻¹. The results demonstrate the importance of the conilon coffee genotype and the cutting collection period in seedling quality. Furthermore, the proper use of IBA can be an advantageous strategy to promote seedling growth, especially for genotypes with lower vigor.
Submitted: 19 July 2025 | Revised: 31 October 2025 | Accepted: 30 April 2026
Pages 689-699 | Full Text PDF| Read Article| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.09.pne80
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Identification of bioactive compounds in Piper nigrum, Piper retrofractum, Piper betle, and Piper aduncum: exploring their potential as botanical nematicides
Mukhlis Ibrahim, Siwi Indarti*, Nugroho Susetya Putra, Valentina Dwi Suci Handayani
Doctoral Program in Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada. Jl. Flora No. 1, Bulaksumur, Sleman 55281, (Yogyakarta) Indonesia
Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada. Jl. Flora No. 1, Bulaksumur, Sleman 55281, (Yogyakarta) Indonesia
Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada. Jl. Flora No. 1, Bulaksumur, Sleman, 55281, (Yogyakarta) Indonesia
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5212-5268
Abstract: Plant-parasitic nematodes, particularly Meloidogyne spp., represent a major constraint to global agricultural productivity, causing significant yield losses in economically important crops. Reliance on synthetic nematicides has raised concerns due to environmental toxicity, human health risks, and the development of resistance, emphasizing the need for safer and sustainable alternatives. Botanical nematicides derived from plant secondary metabolites have emerged as promising candidates because of their biodegradability, lower ecological impact, and multiple modes of biological action. Members of the genus Piper are traditionally used in pest management and are known to contain diverse bioactive phytochemicals with pesticidal properties. This study aimed to identify and characterize the chemical constituents of methanolic leaf extracts from Piper nigrum, Piper retrofractum, Piper betle, and Piper aduncum using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The analysis confirmed the presence of multiple bioactive compound classes, including fatty acid amides (9-octadecenamide), terpenoids (caryophyllene, phytol, dillapiol), phenylpropanoids (eugenol, 3-allyl-6-methoxyphenol), and alkaloids — many of which have been reported to exhibit nematicidal or pesticidal activities. Among the species analyzed, 9-octadecenamide (oleamide) was predominant in both P. retrofractum and P. nigrum, while P. aduncum uniquely contained high concentrations of dillapiol. P. betle exhibited the highest proportion of phenylpropanoids, particularly 3-allyl-6-methoxyphenol. Shared compounds such as methyl stearate, hexadecanoic acid, and phytol across the four species suggest potential synergistic interactions contributing to nematicidal efficacy.
Submitted: 02 December 2025 | Revised: 13 April 2026 | Accepted: 27 April 2026
Pages 700-708 | Full Text PDF| Read Article| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.09.pne198
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Phytochemical profile and in vitro bioactivities of essential oil, hydrosol, and aqueous extract from Moroccan Thymus zygis subsp. Gracilis (Boiss.) R. Morales
Abderrahman Moukhles*, Ismail El Bakali*, Anas Ellaghdach, Ahmed Chelouan, Ali Aghmiz, Mohamed Kadiri, Ahmed Ibn Mansour
Department of Chemistry, Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Mhannech II, 93002, Tetouan, Morocco
Laboratory of Biology, Ecology, and Health, Faculty of Sciences of Tetouan, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Mhannech II, 93002, Tetouan, Morocco
Department of Biology, Bio-Agrodiversity Team, Laboratory of Applied Botany, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Mhannech II, 93002, Tetouan, Morocco
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3013-534X
Abstract: This study investigates three products obtained from the hydrodistillation of Thymus zygis subsp. gracilis. It compares the chemical profiles and antibacterial properties of the essential oil and hydrosol against four bacterial strains, including Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis) and Gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus). It also evaluates the antioxidant activity of the aqueous extract using a DPPH assay. GC-MS analysis shows that the essential oil is primarily composed of carvacrol (48.14%), thymol (11.36%), and p-cymene (12.14%), whereas the hydrosol contains higher levels of carvacrol (54.34%) and thymol (33.32%). The aqueous extract contains various bioactive compounds, including aglycones and glycosylated flavonoids, phenylpropanoid derivatives, and triterpenoid acids related to oleanolic acid. Both the essential oil and hydrosol exhibit strong antibacterial effects against all tested microorganisms (MBC/MIC ≤ 2). Meanwhile, the aqueous extract demonstrates notable antioxidant activity (IC50 = 0.129 mg/mL). Overall, the findings suggest that Thymus zygis subsp. gracilis could be a valuable natural source of antimicrobial and antioxidant agents, with potential applications in food preservation and in reducing oxidative stress–related diseases.
Submitted: 06 December 2025 | Revised: 30 April 2026 | Accepted: 12 May 2026
Pages 709-718 | Full Text PDF| Read Article| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.09.pne206
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Dosage optimization of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi for improving soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) yield components in tropical ultisol: implications for marginal land agriculture
Mahmudin*, Andrian Perdana, Ari Ardiansyah
Precision Agriculture Study Program, Department of Electrical and Agricultural Engineering, Politeknik Manufaktur Negeri Bangka Belitung, Kawasan Industri Airkantung, Sungailiat 33211, Bangka Belitung, Indonesia
Soil Science Study Program, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Riau, Bina Widya Campus, Pekanbaru 28293, Riau, Indonesia
Abstract: Soybean is a strategic food commodity in Indonesia; however, national productivity remains inadequate, particularly in marginal soils such as Ultisols, which are highly acidic, nutrient-poor, and chemically constrained. Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) represents a promising biofertilizer to overcome these limitations. This study assessed the effect and optimal dosage of AMF on soybean growth and yield in Ultisol soil. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five AMF dosages (0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, and 1.6 g kg⁻¹ soil, each applied to polybags containing 10 kg of Ultisol, with four replications was applied. Data were analyzed using ANOVA followed by Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test (DNMRT) at α = 0.05. The AMF significantly enhanced key yield attributes, including the percentage of filled pods, seed number, seed weight per plant, and harvest index, whereas seed size and protein content were unaffected. The optimal dosage was 1.2 g kg⁻¹ soil. Although AMF inoculation at the optimal dosage of 1.2 g kg⁻¹ soil markedly improved plant performance, the yield obtained remained below the documented yield potential of the Anjasmoro variety, indicating that AMF alone is insufficient for full yield expression in Ultisol and that complementary soil amendments or integrated nutrient management strategies are warranted.
Submitted: 08 December 2025 | Revised: 28 March 2026 | Accepted: 28 March 2026
Pages 719-725 | Full Text PDF| Read Article| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.09.pne209
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Interactive synergistic and antagonistic responses of rice to weed-derived elicitors and ZnO-nanoparticle–enhanced compost fertilization
Nurhidayati Nurhidayati*, Sama’ Iradat Tito, Abdul Basit
Department of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Islam Malang, St. MT. Haryono No.193, Malang 65144, East Java, Indonesia
Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematic and Natural Sciences, Universitas Islam Malang, St. MT. Haryono No.193, Malang 65144, East Java, Indonesia
Center for Food Security Studies, Universitas Islam Malang, St. MT. Haryono No.193, Malang 65144, East Java, Indonesia
Center for Sustainability and Environmental Balance Studies, Universitas Islam Malang, St. MT. Haryono No.193, Malang 65144, East Java, Indonesia
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5538-2187
Abstract: The integration of bioactive elicitors and nanoparticles-enhanced compost represents a promising strategy to improve rice productivity while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers. However, the dose-dependent trade-offs and interactive responses between these two bio-stimulant systems remain poorly understood. This study evaluated the synergistic and antagonistic effects of three concentrations of weed extract elicitors (0.2, 0.4, 0.6%) in combination with five fertilization schemes: compost powder + 50% NPK, compost powder + 25% NPK, and compost powder enriched with ZnO nanoparticles (100, 200, and 300 mg kg⁻¹ compost) compared to control (0% elicitor and no fertilization). The results showed a significant interaction between elicitor concentration and fertilization type on rice plants' growth and yield. Higher elicitor concentrations suppressed rice growth and yield components, demonstrating a dose-dependent growth–defence trade-off likely associated with excessive activation of defence pathways. In contrast, the combinations of low elicitor concentration (0.2%) with ZnO-nanoparticle-enhanced compost (100-200 mg kg-1) improved plant height, tiller number, nutrient uptake, and grain yield compared with reduced-NPK treatments. These treatments had higher grain yield with an average increase in grain yield of 106% compare to control. These findings demonstrate that weed-extract elicitors can exert synergistic or antagonistic effects depending on dose and fertilization regime. Optimizing elicitor concentration and nanoparticles enhanced compost integration is therefore essential for achieving balanced growth, improved nutrient-use efficiency, and sustainable rice production.
Submitted: 14 December 2025 | Revised: 20 April 2026 | Accepted: 04 June 2026
Pages 726-737 | Full Text PDF| Read Article| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.09.pne219
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Clustering rubber farmers’ risk perceptions in Thailand using K-means and fuzzy C-means approaches
Onanong Longpichai, Arisara Romyen, Ferdoushi Ahmed*, Pimpawee Suwannarat
Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, Faculty of Economics, Prince of Songkla University (PSU), Hat Yai, 90110, Songkhla, Thailand
Future Economy and Southern Economic Development Research Center, Thailand
Abstract: This study aims to identify and classify risk perceptions in rubber farming in Thailand, focusing on their characteristics through cluster analysis. Three provinces in the southern region - Surat Thani, Songkhla, and Trang were chosen. These provinces were selected for their diverse rubber plantation farming systems and their representation of agricultural and social transitions, including rural development and increasing urbanization. Primary data was collected from a total of 674 randomly selected rubber farmer respondents using a standardized and structured questionnaire. Both K-means and Fuzzy C-Means clustering algorithms were utilized, alongside cluster validation via the Within-Cluster Sum of Squares method and the Gap Statistic compares within-cluster dispersion. The study categorized rubber production risks into two groups: internal and external. Internal risks include production, labor/contracts, finance, and farmer risks, while land tenure/lease, market, climate and natural disasters, price, and policy/institutional risks are external. The analyses revealed that for internal risks, farmers perceptions, production risks as the highest, while price risk was the highest among external risks. For specifying the optimal clusters, Cluster 1 (South = 2.261, North-East = 0.412), which is the lowest perceived risk, consists of labor/contract, market, and policy/institutional risks. Financial and farmer risks are grouped in cluster 2 (South = 2.695, North-East = 1.086) with a moderate level of perceived risk. The high-risk perception (south = 3.021, north-east = 1.815) indicate that farmers in both regions perceive when production (R1) and prices (R5) interact, these vigorously impact on rubber production. The study suggests several recommendations including promoting good agricultural practices, establishing a nationwide rubber auction system, and promoting rubber plantation insurance through integration between rubber farmers and related organizations for better management of the risks associated with rubber farming in Thailand.
Submitted: 14 December 2025 | Revised: 03 August 2026 | Accepted: 06 August 2026
Pages 738-748 | Full Text PDF| Read Article| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.09.pne242
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Multi-location evaluation and specific selection of elite common bean lines for grain yield and quality
Eduardo Almeida Alves*, Saulo Muniz Martins, Luis Claudio de Faria, Marcelo Sfeir de Aguiar, Patrícia Guimarães Santos Melo, Helton Santos Pereira, Leonardo Cunha Melo
Universidade Federal de Goiás, Escola de Agronomia, Campus Samambaia, Avenida Esperança, s/n°, 74690-900, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
Embrapa Arroz e Feijão, Rodovia GO-462, Km 12, Fazenda Capivara, Zona Rural, 75375-000, Santo Antônio de Goiás, GO, Brazil
ORCID: 0000-0001-9085-0292
Abstract: Common bean cultivation occurs under high environmental variation, highlighting the marked effect of the interaction between genotypes and environments (G×E). This effect complicates the indication and recommendation of common bean lines. From this perspective, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of the G×E interaction and estimate the stability and adaptability of common bean lines for grain yield and commercial quality. A total of 22 genotypes were evaluated in 56 environments. The parameters estimated were grain yield (GY), stored grain color (SGC), sieve yield (SY), and 100-grain mass (100M). The analysis of variance revealed a significant effect for the genotypes, environments, and the G×E interaction. For GY, genotype IPR Campos Gerais was the most adaptable and CNFC 16564 the most stable; for SGC, genotype CNFC 16484 showed adaptability and CNFC 16497 showed stability; for SY, genotypes ANFC 09 and CNFC 16636 were the most adapted and stable, in that order; and for 100M, genotype CNFC 16564 and the cultivar Pérola stood out. Genotypes CNFC 16564 and CNFC 16567 were launched as cultivars, receiving the respective names of BRS FC416 and BRS FC422.
Submitted: 22 January 2026 | Revised: 25 July 2026 | Accepted: 06 August 2026
Pages 749-758 | Full Text PDF| Read Article| Supplementary Data PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.09.pne245
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Potential of an indigenous bacterial consortium from tidal lowlands to improve rice growth, yield components, and nutrient uptake under different saturation regimes
Devi Andriani Luta, Munif Ghulamahdi*, Iskandar Lubis, Panca Dewi Manu Hara Karti
Program Study Agrotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Pembangunan Panca Budi. Jl. Gatot Subroto Km 4.5, Medan 20122, North Sumatra, Indonesia
Graduate Program of Agronomy and Horticulture, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Institut Pertanian Bogor. Jl. Meranti, Kampus IPB Darmaga, Bogor 16680, West Java, Indonesia
Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Institut Pertanian Bogor. Jl. Meranti, Kampus IPB Darmaga, Bogor 16680, West Java, Indonesia
Department of Nutrition and Feed Technology, Faculty of Animal Science, IPB University, Bogor 16680, West Java, Indonesia
Abstract: Type B tidal lowlands are characterized by low nutrient availability and high iron (Fe) concentrations, which constrain rice growth and productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of an indigenous bacterial consortium as a liquid biofertilizer to improve rice growth, yield components, and nutrient uptake under tidal lowland conditions. Bacterial isolates were obtained from rice rhizosphere and root samples, screened based on biosafety, nitrogen fixation ability, and siderophore production, and identified using 16S rRNA gene analysis. Four selected isolates were formulated into a liquid biofertilizer and evaluated in a field experiment under different saturation regimes and inorganic fertilizer levels. The results showed that biofertilizer application enhanced plant growth, improved several yield components, increased nitrogen uptake, and reduced Fe uptake compared with the non-biofertilizer treatment. Saturated soil management also contributed to improved plant performance and nutrient acquisition. Overall, the indigenous bacterial consortium demonstrated potential as a biofertilizer component for supporting rice cultivation in tidal lowlands. Further studies are required to evaluate its long-term effectiveness under broader field conditions.
Pages 759-770 | Full Text PDF| Read Article| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.09.pne254
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Integrated organic and chemical fertilizer strategies for sustainable corn yield and quality
Zübeyir Ağırağaç*, Şeyda Zorer Çelebi
Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Agriculture Faculty, Field Crops Department, 65080, Van, Türkiye
ORCID: https:/orcid.org/0000-0003-1414-1472
ORCID: https:/orcid.org/0000-0003-1278-1994
Abstract: This study evaluated the effects of different fertilizer applications on yield and quality parameters of the Simpatico (FAO 300) silage maize cultivar, aiming to assess the role of organomineral and foliar fertilizers in sustainable agriculture. The experiment was conducted under field conditions over two years using combinations of granular (DAP, UREA, OMB, OMT) and foliar (Seaweed, Humic Acid, Vermicompost) fertilizers. Granular fertilizers were soil-applied during sowing, while foliar treatments were applied at V4–V6, V11–V13, V14–V16, and tasseling stages. DAP-OMT and OMB-OMT treatments improved yield traits, while DAP-UREA showed the lowest performance. Vermicompost enhanced plant height and crude protein. Humic Acid increased dry matter yield and ratio. Seaweed improved digestible dry matter, intake, and relative feed value. ADF and NDF were highest in plots without foliar application. The best overall performance was observed in OMB-OMT-VC and DAP-OMT-HA combinations. The results confirm the effectiveness of organomineral and foliar fertilizers in improving maize performance and forage quality. The integration of organomineral and foliar fertilizers can reduce reliance on purely chemical fertilization, offering a more sustainable approach to improving forage quality.
Submitted: 19 February 2026 | Revised: 29 July 2026 | Accepted: 06 August 2026
Pages 771-779 | Full Text PDF| Read Article| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.09.pne255