The limitation on the prophylactic use of antibiotics in animal feed in Europe has critically challenged the rabbit meat industry, which urgently needs to find solutions. A feasible alternative could be using macroalgae in the diet to improve the gut health. This research studied seven species of marine macroalgae in four formats (dehydrated, enzymatically hydrolyzed, aqueous extract, and aqueous extract of hydrolyzed macroalgae) in order to select the most promising ones for their use in rabbit feed. Chemical composition, in vitro digestibility, in vitro caecal gas, total volatile fatty acid (VFA) production, and minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) against common pathogens were studied. All S. latissima products showed high caecal fermentability and VFA production, especially in both types of extracts. The H. elongata aqueous extract was remarkable due to its high in vitro butyrate production, which can be of great interest for improving gut health. The MIC results did not indicate any clear inhibition of the pathogens tested. The macroalgae tested appear to have a potentially prebiotic effect, rather than a direct antimicrobial activity. However, these results must be confirmed in vivo, in order to observe the real benefits of feeding macroalgae during the rabbit weaning period. Full article

The development of irrigation schedules based on water balance implies a study of daily plant water requirements. A properly selected irrigation method is also of most importance. The objective of this study was to find out how surface drip irrigation (SDI) and shallow subsurface drip irrigation (SSDI), as well as different ET-based irrigation scheduling for maize (reference evapotranspiration (ET_o), pan evaporation (E_o), and local climatic coefficients (l_c)), affect grain yield, water use efficiency (WUE), and yield response factor (K_y) of maize. The field experiments were conducted in Vojvodina, a northern part of the Republic of Serbia, on the calcareous gleyic chernozem soil, using a complete block design in three replicates in 2019–2021. The water balance method was used for irrigation scheduling. The nonirrigated treatment was used as a control. The yield in irrigation conditions was statistically higher as compared with the nonirrigated control variant. Concerning the tested parameters, especially the maize yield, reference evapotranspiration (ET_o) should be recommended as the most acceptable method for assessing maize evapotranspiration. Preference should be given to SSDI compared to SDI because the installation of laterals can be performed together with the sowing, which can ensure the uniform and timely emergence of plants. Based on the K_y coefficient of 0.71, it can be concluded that maize is moderately tolerant to water stress in Vojvodina’s temperate climate. The results can contribute to precise planning and efficient irrigation of maize in the region, implying high and stable yields. Full article

Precision agriculture hinges on accurate soil condition data obtained through soil testing across the field, which is a foundational step for subsequent processes. Soil testing is expensive, and reducing the number of samples is an important task. One viable approach is to divide the farm fields into homogenous management zones that require only one soil sample. As a result, these sample points must be the best representatives of the management zones and satisfy some other geospatial conditions, such as accessibility and being away from field borders and other test points. In this paper, we introduce an algorithmic method as a framework for automatically determining locations for test points using a constrained multi-objective optimization model. Our implementation of the proposed algorithmic framework is significantly faster than the conventional GIS process. While the conventional process typically takes several days with the involvement of GIS technicians, our framework takes only 14 s for a 200-hectare field to find optimal benchmark sites. To demonstrate our framework, we use time-varying Sentinel-2 satellite imagery to delineate management zones and a digital elevation model (DEM) to avoid steep regions. We define the objectives for a representative area of a management zone. Then, our algorithm optimizes the objectives using a scalarization method while avoiding constraints. We assess our method by testing it on five fields and showing that it generates optimal results. This method is fast, repeatable, and extendable. Full article

During variable-rate spraying in orchards, the atomization characteristics and distribution of droplets in and out of the target area can be affected by the sprayer pressure. In this study, a variable-rate spraying control system test bench was designed, and a hollow cone nozzle QY82.317.22 was selected. The droplet atomization characteristics, including volume median diameter (D_v0.5), the relative span of the droplet spectrum, and droplet velocity at different spray pressures, were studied at distances ranging from 0.4 to 2.4 m from the nozzle orifice with an air velocity of 10 m/s at the nozzle orifice position. The effects of longitudinal distance, transverse distance, and spray pressure on D_v0.5, relative span, and droplet velocity were analysed by multiple linear regression analysis, and the regression model was established. The experimental results show that at a longitudinal distance of 1.8 m, D_v0.5 ranges from 120 to 150 μm, meeting the requirements for optimal droplet size for controlling crawling pests and plant diseases on crop leaves; and the relative span is 1.2, indicating a wide droplet spectrum. At different pressure conditions, D_v0.5 decreases as pressure increases. Through multiple linear regression analysis, the longitudinal distance, the transverse distance, and the spray pressure have high significance for D_v0.5 and the droplet velocity. The longitudinal distance and the transverse distance have a highly significant effect on the relative span. In this study, the mathematical relational model of droplet characteristics at different spatial positions and different pressures was established, providing an agricultural reference for predicting the droplet characteristics at different spatial positions to achieve the best application effect. This model is conducive to the effective use of pesticides and reduces environmental pollution. Full article

Curculio elephas is an oligophagous insect, attacking fruits of chestnut (Castanea spp.) and oak (Quercus spp.). It is considered one of the most important pests of European chestnut (Castanea sativa) in Europe and it occurs in a continuous range throughout Greece. The aim of this study was to identify the potential volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from chestnut reproductive plant tissues (catkin, nut, and bur) acting as attractants for C. elephas adults to be used for the development of a monitoring system integrating pest management tools. VOCs were sampled in situ during spring and autumn of 2021 and 2022 in different areas of Greece. For the collection and identification of VOCs, the dynamic-headspace technique combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), was employed. In total, 122 compounds from these tissues were detected, with most of them being terpenes (>80%). Further analysis showed that chestnut trees release different VOCs depending on their developmental stage. Antennae of both male and female chestnut weevil adults responded to terpenes, green leaf volatiles, and methyl salicylate. Identification of semiochemicals for manipulating weevils’ behavior will contribute to the development of efficient monitoring tools for the detection and management of this pest. Full article

Reducing food losses presents an opportunity to enhance food security, minimize waste, and improve profitability within the production sector. Creating awareness among various stakeholders in the value chain about the significance of reducing postharvest losses is a fundamental step in this discussion. This article addresses the Postharvest Loss Information System (SIPPOC) development and applicability. SIPPOC encompasses tools designed to facilitate understanding food loss occurrences across different supply chain segments. The article provides insights into the tools incorporated within the information system and describes its historical background and protocol for database updates. In essence, SIPPOC enables the analysis of food loss throughout diverse logistical stages, thereby aiding in identifying critical points and implementing targeted actions for loss reduction. Drawing on SIPPOC data, the article further examines losses within the logistics chain by comparing potato, tomato, and mango agricultural productions. Full article

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of temperature on the colony growth and conidia germination of selected species of entomopathogenic fungi in the genus Cordyceps (C. farinosa, C. fumosorosea and C. coleopterorum) and one isolate of Paecilomyces suffultus. In the first part of the experiment, selected isolates were grown on Sabouraud (SDA) medium at six temperatures: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 °C. Colony growth was observed every 3 days until day 18, by measuring the colony diameter. In the second part of the experiment, slides with an SDA medium and spores were placed in incubators with the above temperature and observations on conidia germination were carried out after 24 and 48 h. The results revealed that the thermal optimum for colony growth of the fungal isolates was within the temperature range of 15 °C and 25 °C. The optimum temperature for the growth of P. suffultus colonies was 15 °C, with 20 °C for C. farinosa and C. coleopterorum. The highest thermal requirements were demonstrated by the C. fumosorosea, which developed best at 25 °C. Cordyceps farinosa and C. fumosorosea developed in a wider temperature range, from 5 °C to 30 °C. In contrast, growth of C. coleopterorum and P. suffultus colonies was observed only at temperatures between 10 °C and 25 °C. After 24 h, spore germination of the fungal species was most intense at 25 °C. After both 24 and 48 h, the temperature of 5 °C stopped the spore germination of all fungal species, and in the case of C. farinosa and C. fumosorosea no germination was also found at 30 °C. This study on the effect of temperature on the growth and spore germination of the species C. coleopterorum and P. suffultus is the first research of its type. The fungal isolates tested in this work in terms of thermal requirements have shown high pathogenicity in relation to selected plant pests in previous studies, which indicates their potential usefulness in IPM programs. Full article

Ants belonging to the genus Solenopsis are highly significant invasive pests worldwide. The control of these insects has historically relied on the use of synthetic insecticides, which, unfortunately, has led to a range of ecological repercussions. In light of these challenges and the limited availability of registered products for managing these pests, our study set out to synthesize and assess the insecticidal properties of carvacrol derivatives. The lethal and sublethal effects caused by these derivatives were compared to the essential oil of Lippia gracilis (50.7% carvacrol) and to the base molecule—carvacrol. Carvacryl benzoate was the most toxic derivative to Solenopsis sp., with an LD₅₀ of 3.20 μg/ mg. This compound was about 2 and 7.6 times more toxic than carvacrol at the doses needed to kill 50 and 90% of populations, respectively. The workers of Solenopsis sp. showed a rapid reduction in survival when exposed to carvacrol (LT₅₀ = 8.43 h) and carvacryl benzoate (LT₅₀ = 8.87 h). Insects treated with sublethal doses of the compounds did not show significant effects on self-cleaning, allogrooming and aggregation, with the exception of those treated with L. gracilis essential oil. The oil increased self-cleaning and reduced allogrooming and aggregation. Ants treated with carvacrol and carvacryl benzoate travelled greater distances and had higher movement speeds when compared to the control. These compounds exhibited decreased meanders and angular velocities. When live workers were exposed to dead individuals at the LD₉₀ of the compounds, carvacryl benzoate was the derivative that most reduced survival due to horizontal transfer. These findings underscore the considerable potential of carvacrol derivatives, specifically carvacryl benzoate, as an alternative approach to managing ants of the Solenopsis genus. Full article

Upland rice farming plays a crucial role in ensuring food security in Indonesia. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) isolates on the growth of upland rice. The bioassay and pot experiments were conducted to select the capable isolates of PGPR and to investigate the effect of the PGPR inoculant on the N fertilizer efficiency and agronomic traits of upland rice. The bacterial isolates were identified through a biochemical analysis and tested under controlled greenhouse conditions. The selected PGPR inoculant was formulated as a liquid biofertilizer (LB). The three capable isolates were obtained to fix nitrogen, produce indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), organic acid, and nitrogenase activity and were identified through a biomolecular analysis as Delftia tsuruhatensis strain D9, Delftia sp. strain MS2As2, and Bacillus sp. The application of the LB into the soil at a dose of 10 L ha⁻¹ and 50 kg ha⁻¹ N resulted in a grain yield of 29.81 g pot⁻¹ and a relative agronomic effectiveness (RAE) value of 235.08%, signifying a significant improvement over the conventional method. Several variables, including the number of grains, number of panicles, root length, 1000-grain weight, population of nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and nitrogen uptake exhibited a strong correlation with the grain yield, accounting for 97.80% of the observed variation. These findings show the enormous potential of PGPR isolates, specifically of Delftia tsuruhatensis strain D9, Delftia sp. strain MS2As2, and Bacillus sp., in significantly enhancing the upland rice output in Indonesia. Furthermore, the use of an LB as a biofertilizer in conjunction with nitrogen fertilization provides a viable and sustainable way to increase yields and enhance the overall sustainability of the region’s upland rice farming systems. Full article

Biochar is a carbon-rich material that enhances nutrient availability, soil quality, and microbial activity, improving plant growth and crop productivity. In this study, the palm oil midrib biochar (POMB) was used as a soil conditioner to improve the growth of romaine lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. longifolia), together with a biofertilizer containing a newly isolated bacterial strain SM11. The newly isolated SM11 was closely related to Bacillus siamensis, with 99.77% similarity based on 16s rRNA gene sequence analysis. POMB treatment improved the fresh weight of romaine lettuce by up to 181.33 ± 1.15 g plant⁻¹, which is equivalent to 160.27% growth enhancement compared to the control without POMB. By comparison, POMB treatment with a biofertilizer containing SM11 increased fresh weight to 275.67 ± 11.59 g plant⁻¹ with a growth enhancement of 295.68%. The addition of SM11 biofertilizer also protected against disease during cultivation. The addition of POMB reduced nitrate accumulation in romaine lettuce from 631.38 ± 0.36 to 223.31 ± 0.20 mg kg⁻¹ by 59.08% compared to the control. This study suggests a way to manage agricultural waste from local palm oil plantations, thereby reducing waste accumulation and adding value to palm oil waste by-products for agricultural benefit through a biotechnological process. Full article

This study aimed to identify superior genotypes of specialty rice (SR) with comparable or higher grain yield than the drought-tolerant check variety under rainfed and controlled-drought conditions. A total of 17 SR varieties (six aromatic, six pigmented, five glutinous) and a drought-tolerant check variety with ordinary grain quality were evaluated under rainfed lowland and controlled-drought conditions from 2019 to 2021 at Central Luzon State University in the Philippines. Among the SR varieties, aromatic NSIC Rc344, pigmented Black rice, and glutinous NSIC Rc15 had comparable or higher grain yield than the drought-tolerant check variety under both rainfed and controlled-drought conditions. These selected genotypes were classified as the highest yielding, with a more stable yield than the drought-tolerant check variety across the hydrological conditions based on the BLUPs productivity and stability test and drought tolerance indices. The selected SR varieties had a greater panicle number (NSIC Rc344), more grains per panicle (NSIC Rc15), and a higher 1000-grain weight and harvest index (Black rice). In comparison to a higher yield but with a higher market price due to the superior grain quality of the identified SR than the drought-tolerant check variety, the net income in rainfed lowland conditions significantly increased by 69–108%. These results suggest that planting good-performing SR in rainfed lowlands can increase profitability in this ecosystem due to the higher market price compared to ordinary drought-tolerant varieties. Full article

According to recent investigations, the proportion of mastitis caused by environmental pathogens, such as K. pneumoniae, has increased. In this research, the epidemiology of pathogens in milk samples collected from four farms in the Jiangsu Province was carried out. The results show that 16 pathogens were detected in 186 positive milk samples. It was found that K. pneumoniae had the lowest sensitivity to penicillin (0%) and amoxicillin (4%) compared to its sensitivity to gentamicin (92%) and piperacillin (89%). A total of eight ESBL-producing strains were detected. Crystal violet staining showed that 46 of the 68 isolates of K. pneumoniae had strong biofilm-forming ability, which was related to the tetracycline resistance phenotype (p < 0.05). The detection rate of the ESBL-resistant gene (bla_SHV) reached 100%. The results show that resistance genes bla_VIM, bla_OXA-10, and bla_TEM were correlated with drug-resistance phenotypes to varying degrees. The present study indicates the prevalence of bovine mastitis-derived pathogens in part of Jiangsu Province and reveals the distribution of β-lactam resistance genes and the strong biofilm-forming ability of K. pneumoniae and its relationship with tetracycline resistance. This study provided theoretical support and guidance for rational drug use and disease prevention and control on farms. Full article

The impact of heavy metal presence in soil on cereal crops is a growing concern, posing significant challenges to global food security and environmental sustainability. Cereal crops, vital sources of nutrition, face the risk of contamination with toxic heavy metals released into the environment through human activities. This paper explores key aspects requiring thorough investigation to foster innovation and understand intricate interactions between heavy metals and cereals. Visible symptoms and physiological changes resulting from heavy metal contamination, such as chlorosis and stunted growth, demand further research to devise targeted mitigation strategies and sustainable agricultural practices. Root barrier formation, mycorrhizal symbiosis, and metal-binding proteins emerge as critical defence mechanisms for combating heavy metal stress, offering opportunities for developing metal-tolerant cereal varieties. Research on metal bioavailability and food safety implications in cereal grains is vital to safeguard human health. This paper reveals that multidisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge technologies are essential for promoting innovation beyond the state of the art in elucidating and mitigating the impacts of heavy metals on cereal crops. Genetic and breeding approaches show promise in developing metal-tolerant cereal varieties, while agronomic practices and soil amendments can reduce metal bioavailability and toxicity. Unravelling the complex mechanisms underlying heavy metal uptake and tolerance is essential for sustainable cereal agriculture and worldwide food sustainability. Embracing the challenges of heavy metal pollution through proactive research and collaboration can secure a resilient future for cereal crops amid evolving environmental conditions. Full article

Stewart’s vascular wilt and leaf blight of sweet corn is caused by the Gram-negative enteric bacterium Pantoea stewartii subsp. stewartii. Stewart’s wilt results in substantial yield losses worldwide warranting rapid and accurate disease diagnosis. Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) is an isothermal technique that is tolerant to host plant-derived inhibitors and is, therefore, ideally suited for rapid in-field detection vis-à-vis traditional polymerase chain reaction-based molecular assays. An RPA assay coupled with a Lateral Flow Device (LFD) was developed for rapid, accurate, and sensitive real-time detection of P. stewartii subsp. stewartii directly from the infected host offering in-field pathogen detection, timely disease management, and satisfying quarantine and phytosanitary requirements. Twelve novel primer sets were designed against conserved genomic regions of P. stewartii subsp. Stewartii; however, only the primers for amplification of the intergenic spacer region between capsular polysaccharide genes cpsA and cpsB were discernibly unique and adequate for unambiguous identification of P. stewartii subsp. stewartii. The P. stewartii subsp. stewartii-specific primers were further validated in a simplex RPA assay for specificity against twenty-six bacterial species representing several Pantoea and other closely related bacterial species/subspecies/strains found in the same niche, and naturally or artificially infected plant samples. The integrated RPA/LFD assay was also optimized for rapid and sensitive on-site detection of P. stewartii subsp. stewartii with an empirical detection limit of 0.0005 pg μL⁻¹ bacterial DNA and 1 × 10² CFU mL⁻¹ (app. two bacterial cells used per RPA reaction) in minimally processed samples for accurate, low-cost, and point-of-need diagnosis of the quarantine pathogen P. stewartii subsp. stewartii. Full article

Climatic and soil conditions are changing in response to the increasing human impact. This requires the introduction of low-cost, low-emission, but effective technologies in the field cultivation of crops, in turn requiring and justifying research in this area. In laboratory tests and field studies, the production and environmental effects of strip-till and the application of microgranular fertilisers with a gelling component were determined (and, in particular, their use in combination as a plant cultivation technology). These effects were measured in terms of soil properties, the biomass production, and the yields of maize (Zea mays L.), spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), and winter rape (Brassica napus L.). Fertiliser microgranules with a gelling agent absorbed water in the amount of 118.6–124.7% of fertiliser mass and increased the volumetric moisture content of the soil in the layer in which they were applied (0–7.5 cm) by 3.0–3.9 percentage points compared to the soil moisture without fertiliser. Strip tillage with the application of fertilisers with a gelling agent significantly increased the amount of water in the soil during the sowing period for winter and spring plants and reduced the CO₂ emissions from the soil relative to the conventional tillage without microgranular fertiliser. The biomass of maize, spring barley, and winter rape before flowering, as well as the yields of these plants, were higher when cultivated using strip-till and fertilisers with gelling agents than when ploughed with a mouldboard plough without the use of microgranulated fertilisers. This technology also increased the number of microorganisms, including bacteria, actinobacteria, and filamentous fungi in the soil after harvesting compared to the unfertilised, ploughed soil. Strip tillage and microgranulated fertilisers containing a gelling agent can thus reduce the environmental pressure exerted by agriculture and reduce the risk of climate change, as well as being a way of adapting agriculture to climate change. Full article