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Agriculture
Volume 15
Issue 5
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Agriculture, Volume 15, Issue 5 (March-1 2025) – 126 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): This study explored the responses of different Hericium erinaceus species to Se-enriched substrates and found that Se supplementation significantly affected the growth, yield, and Se bioaccumulation varied by strain and condition. The Se content in the first flush was the highest at all substrate supplementation levels. This study contributes to the limited research on the effects of substrate additives on Se absorption in multiple flushes, identifying substrate composition as a key factor, which will help develop Se-enriched mushrooms as functional foods and provide valuable guidance for commercial cultivation. Further exploration of pathways for Se compounds and improved cultivation strategies is necessary to achieve maximum economic and nutritional benefits. View this paper
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17 pages, 704 KiB  
Article
Willingness to Pay to Adopt Conservation Agriculture in Northern Namibia
by Teofilus Shiimi and David Uchezuba
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050568 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 691
Abstract
This paper aims to explore the willingness of farmers in the northern Namibia to adopt conservation agriculture (CA), employing the conditional logit model to estimate the probability of farmers choosing to adopt CA in different villages relative to all other alternatives and examining [...] Read more.
This paper aims to explore the willingness of farmers in the northern Namibia to adopt conservation agriculture (CA), employing the conditional logit model to estimate the probability of farmers choosing to adopt CA in different villages relative to all other alternatives and examining the effects of omitted variance and correlations on coefficient estimates, willingness to pay (WTP), and decision predictions. This study has practical significance, as agriculture plays a crucial role in the economic development of and livelihoods in Namibia, especially for those farmers who rely on small-scale farming as a means of subsistence. In terms of methodology, the data for the experimental choice simulation were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through a face-to-face survey approach. This paper adopts the conditional logit model to estimate the probability of farmers choosing to adopt CA in different villages, which is an appropriate choice as the model is capable of handling multi-option decision problems. This paper further enhances its rigor and reliability by simulating discrete choice experiments to investigate the impact of omitted variables and correlations on the estimation results. The research findings indicate that crop rotation and permanent soil cover are the main factors positively influencing farmers’ WTP for adopting CA, while intercropping, the time spent on soil preparation in the first season, and the frequency and rate of weeding consistently negatively influence the WTP for adopting CA. These discoveries provide valuable insights for formulating policy measures to promote the adoption of CA. In terms of policy recommendations, this paper puts forward targeted suggestions, including the appointment of specialized extension technicians by the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform to disseminate information as well as coordinate, promote, and personally implement CA activities across all regions. Additionally, to expedite the adoption of CA, stakeholders should ensure the availability of appropriate farming equipment, such as rippers and direct seeders, in local markets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Smart Agriculture with Remote Sensing as the Core and Its Applications in Crops Field)
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33 pages, 1947 KiB  
Review
Soil Organic Carbon Assessment for Carbon Farming: A Review
by Theodoros Petropoulos, Lefteris Benos, Patrizia Busato, George Kyriakarakos, Dimitrios Kateris, Dimitrios Aidonis and Dionysis Bochtis
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 567; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050567 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1215
Abstract
This review is motivated by the urgent need to improve soil organic carbon (SOC) assessment methods, which are vital for enhancing soil health, addressing climate change, and promoting carbon farming. By employing a structured approach that involves a systematic literature search, data extraction, [...] Read more.
This review is motivated by the urgent need to improve soil organic carbon (SOC) assessment methods, which are vital for enhancing soil health, addressing climate change, and promoting carbon farming. By employing a structured approach that involves a systematic literature search, data extraction, and analysis, 86 relevant studies were identified. These studies were evaluated to address the following specific research questions: (a) What are the state-of-the-art approaches in sampling, modeling, and data acquisition? and (b) What are the key challenges, open issues, potential advancements, and future directions needed to enhance the effectiveness of carbon farming practices? The findings indicate that while traditional SOC assessment techniques remain foundational, there is a significant shift towards incorporating model-based methods, machine learning models, proximal spectroscopy, and remote sensing technologies. These emerging approaches primarily serve as complementary to laboratory analyses, enhancing the overall accuracy and reliability of SOC assessments. Despite these advancements, challenges such as soil spatial and temporal variability, high financial costs, and limitations in measurement accuracy continue to hinder progress. This review also highlights the necessity for scalable, cost-effective, and precise SOC measurement tools, alongside supportive policies and incentives that encourage farmer adoption. Finally, the development of a “System-of-Systems” approach that integrates sampling, sensing, and modeling offers a promising pathway to balancing cost and accuracy, ultimately supporting carbon farming practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Soils)
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22 pages, 11426 KiB  
Article
The Characteristics and Driving Factors of Soil Salinisation in the Irrigated Area on the Southern Bank of the Yellow River in Inner Mongolia: A Assessment of the Donghaixin Irrigation District
by Ziyuan Qin, Tangzhe Nie, Ying Wang, Hexiang Zheng, Changfu Tong, Jun Wang, Rongyang Wang and Hongfei Hou
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050566 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 590
Abstract
Soil salinisation is a critical problem in northern China’s arid and semi-arid irrigated regions, posing a substantial impediment to the sustainable advancement of agriculture in these areas. This research utilises the Donghaixin Irrigation District, located on the southern bank of the Yellow River [...] Read more.
Soil salinisation is a critical problem in northern China’s arid and semi-arid irrigated regions, posing a substantial impediment to the sustainable advancement of agriculture in these areas. This research utilises the Donghaixin Irrigation District, located on the southern bank of the Yellow River in Inner Mongolia, as a case study. This study examines the spatial distribution and determinants of soil salinisation through macro-environmental variables and micro-ion composition, integrating regression models and groundwater ion characteristics to elucidate the patterns and causes of soil salinisation systematically. The findings demonstrate that soil salinisation in the study region displays notable spatial clustering, with surface water-irrigated regions exhibiting greater salinisation levels than groundwater-irrigated areas. More than 80% of the land exhibits moderate salinity, predominantly characterised by the ions Cl−, HCO3−, and SO42−. The hierarchy of ion concentration variation with escalating soil salinity is as follows: Na+ > K+ > SO42− > Cl− > Mg2+ > HCO3− + CO32− > Ca2+. The susceptibility of ions to soil salinisation is ordered as follows: Ca2+ > Na+ > HCO3− + CO32− > Mg2+ > K+ > Cl− > SO42−. In contrast to the ordinary least squares (OLS) model, the geographic weighted regression (GWR) model more effectively elucidates the geographical variability of salinity, evidenced by an adjusted R2 of 0.68, particularly in high-salinity regions, where it more precisely captures the trend of observed values. Ecological driving elements such as organic matter (OM), pH, groundwater depth (GD), total dissolved solids (TDS), digital elevation model (DEM), normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), soil moisture (SM), and potential evapotranspiration (PET) govern the distribution of salinisation. In contrast, anthropogenic activities affect the extent of salinisation variation. Piper’s trilinear diagram demonstrates that Na cations mainly characterise groundwater and soil water chemistry. In areas irrigated by surface water, the concentration of SO42− is substantially elevated and significantly affected by agricultural practises; conversely, in groundwater-irrigated regions, Cl− and HCO3− are more concentrated, primarily driven by evaporation and ion exchange mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Soil Health and Water Use Efficiency in Sustainable Agriculture)
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14 pages, 4808 KiB  
Article
Effects of Combined Pollution of High-Density Polyethylene and Cadmium on Carbon and Nitrogen Storage and Forms in Coastal Wetland Soil
by Ziying Nie, Shiyan Xu, Xuejing Zang, Huihua Lyu, Zhiquan Wang, Shengbing He, Daolin Du and Jian Li
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050565 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 555
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of HDPE and Cd on forms of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) by measuring the changes in enzymatic activities and physicochemical properties of Spartina alterniflora soil samples from coastal regions of China. Over three incubation periods [...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate the effects of HDPE and Cd on forms of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) by measuring the changes in enzymatic activities and physicochemical properties of Spartina alterniflora soil samples from coastal regions of China. Over three incubation periods (14, 28, and 56 days), a soil incubation experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of HDPE (0, 0.5, 1, and 2 g per 100 g of soil) and Cd (0, 2, 4, and 8 mg kg−1) on soil physicochemical properties. The results demonstrated that the sole presence of HDPE had a notable impact on enhancing the C-related physicochemical properties of the soil, particularly by elevating the concentration of Total Organic Carbon (TOC). The sole addition of Cd significantly suppressed enzymic activities in the soil, leading to a considerable reduction in the concentration of NH4+-N and NO3−-N. Under identical Cd treatment conditions, the introduction of 1 g HDPE led to an increase in the concentration of TOC, and the inhibitory effect of Cd on enzymic activities was decreased; thus, an elevated consumption of soluble organic carbon (DOC) was identified. However, upon adding 2 g of HDPE, while the TOC concentration continued to rise, the stimulatory effect on enzymic activities diminished. In conclusion, the addition of HDPE inhibits, to a certain extent, the influence of Cd on the carbon and nitrogen cycling in soil. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Soil Carbon Dynamics at Different Scales on Agriculture)
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14 pages, 7611 KiB  
Article
Detection of Apple Trees in Orchard Using Monocular Camera
by Stephanie Nix, Airi Sato, Hirokazu Madokoro, Satoshi Yamamoto, Yo Nishimura and Kazuhito Sato
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050564 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 471
Abstract
This study proposes an object detector for apple trees as a first step in developing agricultural digital twins. An original dataset of orchard images was created and used to train Single Shot MultiBox Detector (SSD) and You Only Look Once (YOLO) models. Performance [...] Read more.
This study proposes an object detector for apple trees as a first step in developing agricultural digital twins. An original dataset of orchard images was created and used to train Single Shot MultiBox Detector (SSD) and You Only Look Once (YOLO) models. Performance was evaluated using mean Average Precision (mAP). YOLO significantly outperformed SSD, achieving 91.3% mAP compared to the SSD’s 46.7%. Results indicate YOLO’s Darknet-53 backbone extracts more complex features suited to tree detection. This work demonstrates the potential of deep learning for automated data collection in smart farming applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Precision Farming for Sustainable Agriculture)
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17 pages, 5029 KiB  
Article
Quantification of Soil Water Retention Capacity in the Protected Water Management Area Žitný Ostrov (Slovakia)
by Zdena Krnáčová, Mária Barančoková and Martin Labuda
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050563 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 589
Abstract
Water is a crucial resource in agriculture, but climate change has led to more frequent droughts, particularly at the start of the growing season, adversely affecting crop yields. This paper evaluates soil water retention capacity (SWRC) in the Protected Water Management Area Žitný [...] Read more.
Water is a crucial resource in agriculture, but climate change has led to more frequent droughts, particularly at the start of the growing season, adversely affecting crop yields. This paper evaluates soil water retention capacity (SWRC) in the Protected Water Management Area Žitný ostrov, which is home to Slovakia’s most fertile soils and significant groundwater reserves. In our study, we adopted a new methodological approach and developed an algorithm for weighting selected physical parameters from the valued soil-ecological units (VSEUs) database, applicable to larger territorial units. To estimate SWRC, we used an algorithm based on the physical parameters of VSEUs, reclassifying them into 10 categories of cumulative water retention capacity (CWRC) and mapping SWRC in the model area. Most of the area demonstrates high water retention due to groundwater, but these sources are being increasingly depleted. Agriculture, as a significant contributor to groundwater pollution, must adapt to climate change by implementing crop management practices that reduce agrochemical seepage and preserve water supply. Regenerative agriculture and agroforestry, which enhance soil properties, are proposed as viable solutions. Additionally, infrastructure such as dams, ponds, and rainwater harvesting systems, along with the expansion of wetlands, can help capture and store water in areas with lower retention capacity. This study aims to identify critical zones with varying retention capacities and recommends crop rotation adjustments to prevent agrochemical seepage and enhance water retention. These practices are essential for sustaining agriculture while protecting water resources amidst global climate challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Water Management)
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18 pages, 2330 KiB  
Article
Livelihood Capital, Speculative Preferences, and Natural Rubber Farmers’ Participation in Cooperatives
by Shilei Qiao, Jiyao Liu, Tao Xu and Desheng Zhang
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 562; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050562 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 458
Abstract
The development of cooperatives represents an effective solution to address the looming issue of “who will harvest the rubber”. Participation in cooperatives has the potential to increase the income of natural rubber farmers, enhance agricultural operational efficiency, and mitigate risks inherent in agricultural [...] Read more.
The development of cooperatives represents an effective solution to address the looming issue of “who will harvest the rubber”. Participation in cooperatives has the potential to increase the income of natural rubber farmers, enhance agricultural operational efficiency, and mitigate risks inherent in agricultural production. Livelihood capital and speculative preferences are key factors influencing natural rubber farmers’ decisions to participate in cooperatives. However, the existing literature has largely overlooked the intrinsic relationship between livelihood capital, speculative preferences, and the participation of natural rubber farmers in cooperatives. This study employs data from a field survey of 506 natural rubber farmers in Hainan Province, utilizing a Logit model to assess the impact of livelihood capital on farmers’ participation in cooperatives. The results indicate that (1) Livelihood capital encourages natural rubber farmers’ participation in cooperatives at the 5% significance level; (2) Speculative preferences negatively moderate the effect of livelihood capital on farmers’ participation in cooperatives. Therefore, the government can enhance farmers’ livelihood capital through education and training while providing financial instruments, such as insurance, to reduce speculative demand, thereby encouraging their participation in cooperatives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
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22 pages, 4923 KiB  
Article
Biochar Input to Saline-Alkali Farmland Can Improve Soil Health and Crop Yield: A Meta-Analysis
by Liqiang Zhang, Baoyin Bate, Jinhu Cui, Yudi Feng, Jianning Yu, Zhengguo Cui, Hongyu Wang and Qiuzhu Li
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 561; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050561 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 595
Abstract
Soil salinization in farmland is a critical factor limiting global soil health, food security, and ecosystem productivity. Biochar has recently shown great application potential in agricultural fields in many domains, such as soil structure improvement, carbon sequestration, and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. [...] Read more.
Soil salinization in farmland is a critical factor limiting global soil health, food security, and ecosystem productivity. Biochar has recently shown great application potential in agricultural fields in many domains, such as soil structure improvement, carbon sequestration, and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Here, a meta-analysis of 113 published papers was carried out to quantify the effects of biochar on the remediation of saline-alkali soil and crop yield in terms of climatic conditions and agricultural management, with the aim of determining the optimal agricultural management strategy for biochar application to saline-alkali soils. The results show that adding biochar to saline-alkali farmland increases the TOC in soil (44.0%) and water utilization efficiency (8.7%), and decreases soil salinity (−9.6%), certain salt ion contents in particular (Na+, 12.5%; Cl−, 23.4%; HCO3−, −17.7%), along with soil pH (−2.2%), resulting in a 20.8% higher crop yield. Applying shell biochar at a rate of 10–20 t·ha−1 for monoculture is the most promising way to bolster the yield in severely saline-alkali irrigated farmland. However, adding biochar raises CO2 and CH4 emissions by 9.8% and 31.6%, respectively, but lowers the emission of N2O by 29.4%. These findings provide scientific recommendations for the sustainable application of biochar in saline-alkali farmland areas worldwide. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biochar Applications in Agricultural Soil Restoration)
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21 pages, 3463 KiB  
Article
Reorienting Innovations for Sustainable Agriculture: A Study Based on Bean’s Traditional Knowledge Management
by David Israel Contreras-Medina, Luis Miguel Contreras-Medina, Verónica Cerroblanco-Vázquez, María del Consuelo Gallardo-Aguilar, José Porfirio González-Farías, Sergio Ernesto Medina-Cuellar, Andrea Acosta-Montenegro, Lexy Yahaira Lemus-Martínez, Berenice Moreno-Ojeda and Alan David Negrete-López
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050560 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 455
Abstract
Historically, innovation has been a milestone in achieving sustainable agriculture for small-scale producers. For several centuries, innovation has improved agricultural activity. However, there is still the challenge of introducing technologies pertinent to the knowledge and practices of small producers to achieve sustainability. Therefore, [...] Read more.
Historically, innovation has been a milestone in achieving sustainable agriculture for small-scale producers. For several centuries, innovation has improved agricultural activity. However, there is still the challenge of introducing technologies pertinent to the knowledge and practices of small producers to achieve sustainability. Therefore, the present study explores the traditional knowledge embedded in the activities of Planting–Harvest and First Disposal circuit (PHFDc) of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) for its innovation involving the social, economic, and environmental context. Applying the methodology of roadmapping technology to 73 small-scale producers in Guanajuato, Mexico, combining the SDGs catalogue, in addition to statistical analysis, the results show access to government financial support; improving sales price, production, area, and profitability; having accessible tools; creating their inputs; in addition to having more excellent knowledge for plant care and advice as strategies to develop within economic sustainability. In this sense, based on the assertion that social and productive conditions are directly related to innovation, the proposal for reorientation is towards the creation of word credit, improving bean varieties, sustainable practices, mechanical seeders, bean corridors, and the connection with associations and institutes as the most pertinent ones that are developing in similar contexts. This research can be significant for small producers and the general population regarding food security, zero hunger, and the fight against climate change, as well as for researchers and politicians who support continuing new studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technological Innovation, Adoption, and Implementation in Agri-Food Supply Chains)
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19 pages, 18523 KiB  
Article
Natural and Anthropogenic Determinants of Productivity, Emission Intensity and Environmental Efficiency of Central Asian Countries Against a Worldwide Background
by Altyn Shayakhmetova, Dmitriy Il, Anargul Belgibayeva, Arkadiusz Sadowski, Natalia Genstwa-Namysł, Jagoda Zmyślona, Aigul Timurbekova, Ainagul Kaliyeva, Shynar Arynova, Irina Chidunchi, Kulbaram Bayazitova, Galiya Tumenova, Yerzhan Sagatbayev and Sergey Pashkov
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 559; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050559 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 575
Abstract
The study is devoted to determining the factors affecting the volume of agricultural production, the ability to meet the food needs of populations, as well as the environmental efficiency of production, defined as the ratio of the number of kilocalories produced by the [...] Read more.
The study is devoted to determining the factors affecting the volume of agricultural production, the ability to meet the food needs of populations, as well as the environmental efficiency of production, defined as the ratio of the number of kilocalories produced by the agricultural sector to the amount of greenhouse gasses it emits. Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) were chosen as an example. They are characterized by similar natural conditions (mainly dry, continental climate, and the dominant role of permanent grassland in agricultural land use), as well as a common economic history (as former republics of the USSR). As shown in this study, land productivity and environmental efficiency of production depend on natural factors, while the actual ability to meet each nation’s food needs depends on human activity, including primary measures taken to improve environmental efficiency within natural limits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
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15 pages, 792 KiB  
Review
The Contribution of Agroecology to Smart Cities and Different Settlement Contexts in South Africa—An Analytical Review
by Michael Rudolph and Mashford Zenda
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050558 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 604
Abstract
This paper supports the idea of agroecology playing an integral role in development ‘smart cities’ and its application in different settlement contexts in South Africa. As alluded to in the People-Centered Smart Cities framework, the application of the smart cities approach can be [...] Read more.
This paper supports the idea of agroecology playing an integral role in development ‘smart cities’ and its application in different settlement contexts in South Africa. As alluded to in the People-Centered Smart Cities framework, the application of the smart cities approach can be extended to various settlement contexts. This paper promotes ‘the smart city’ concept in different contexts, including rural and small settlement environments, incorporating agroecology, a paradigm which guides us towards building sustainable and equitable urban environments. This approach can significantly contribute to the improved and more resilient design and development of human settlements. The Preferred Reporting Items for Reviews and Meta-analysis were employed to analyze primary and secondary data sources, thereby formulating descriptive and analytical themes around agroecology and smart cities. This paper utilized 54 articles, offering a robust foundation for the paper’s analysis and discussions. Additionally, the paper underscores the adherence to policy and legislative spaces for smart city strategy-led budgeting. It advocates for robust financial policies and long-term development financial strategies aligned with several the Sustainable Development Goals, but especially SGD 11, which is to create inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and habitats. The construction of smart campuses, smart rural settlements, and smart school programs is demonstrated by the Centre for Ecological Intelligence at the University of Johannesburg’s food systems hub, the Phumulani rural agrivillage, and the Eastern Cape and Tshwane food security school programs. These showcase projects act as compelling models illustrating how the principles of smart cities can be applied to diverse settlement contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Systems and Management)
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23 pages, 14402 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Tracking and Cutting Control System for Tea Canopy: Design and Experimental Evaluation
by Danzhu Zhang, Ruirui Zhang, Liping Chen, Linhuan Zhang, Tongchuan Yi and Quan Feng
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 557; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050557 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 463
Abstract
Combined with the characteristic that tea is generally planted in hilly and mountainous areas and considering the existing problems of harvesting with current tea pickers, such as the inability to adjust their posture in real time, poor adaptability to the terrain, insufficient stability, [...] Read more.
Combined with the characteristic that tea is generally planted in hilly and mountainous areas and considering the existing problems of harvesting with current tea pickers, such as the inability to adjust their posture in real time, poor adaptability to the terrain, insufficient stability, and large differences in the harvesting lengths of tea. To address these issues, an adaptive canopy-following cutting control system has been designed for self-propelled tea harvesters in this study. Specifically, we developed a height-following control algorithm for tea canopy tracking and an adaptive header tilt angle control algorithm based on incremental PID control. Field experiments demonstrated that when the vehicle speed was 0.4 m/s, the height tracking errors for three harvesting lengths (20 mm, 30 mm, and 40 mm) remained within ±5 mm, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.99. When the height differences between the two sides of the tea ridge were 10 cm, 15 cm, and 20 cm, the maximum uphill roll angles were measured at 1.7°, 2.3°, and 3.0°, respectively, and the time taken for the harvester to return to a horizontal position was around 1.7 s. During downhill movement, the maximum roll angles of the harvester were 1.3°, 2.0°, and 2.6°, respectively, and the time for the harvester to return to a horizontal position was around 2.1 s, demonstrating significant correction effectiveness. Quality assessments revealed that at the 30 mm harvesting length specification, the integrity rate of tea harvesting exceeded 79%, while the missed harvesting rate was below 1.1%. This system effectively enhances harvesting stability and quality, offering novel insights for efficient, high-volume tea production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Technology)
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17 pages, 769 KiB  
Article
The Role of Foliar-Applied Silicon in Improving the Growth and Productivity of Early Potatoes
by Wanda Wadas and Tomasz Kondraciuk
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050556 - 5 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 773
Abstract
Climate change is leading to a decline in global potato production. To ensure food security, it is essential to adapt cultivation practices to the changing climate. The effects of foliar-applied silicon on potato growth and productivity under various hydrothermal conditions were investigated. Potato [...] Read more.
Climate change is leading to a decline in global potato production. To ensure food security, it is essential to adapt cultivation practices to the changing climate. The effects of foliar-applied silicon on potato growth and productivity under various hydrothermal conditions were investigated. Potato plants were treated with three Si-based biostimulants: Actisil (6 g of Si and 20 g of Ca per liter; choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid; Chol-sSa + Ca); Krzemix (6 g of Si per liter; choline-stabilized ammonium metasilicate; Chol-sNH4-Sil); and Optysil (93 g of Si and 24 g of Fe per liter; sodium metasilicate and iron chelate Fe-EDTA; Na-Sil + Fe-EDTA). Biostimulants were foliar-applied twice, at the leaf development stage (BBCH 13–15) and two weeks after the first treatment, at 0.5 L/ha in each treatment. The plants treated with biostimulants were taller and produced greater above-ground biomass and a higher tuber weight than the control plants (without a biostimulant). As a result, the total tuber yield was higher, on average, by 10% to 13% and the marketable tuber yield by 11% to 15%. The plant-growth-promoting and yield-increasing effects of the Si-based biostimulants depended on the hydrothermal conditions during potato growth. Chol-sSA + Ca (Actisil) applications were the most effective. Na-Sil + Fe-EDTA (Optysil) produced better results during a warm and very dry year, while Chol-sNH4-Sil (Krzemix) was effective during colder years with a periodic water deficit. Silicon foliar application can be a new method for increasing early crop potato yields under water shortage conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Silicon in Improving Crop Growth Under Abiotic Stress)
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10 pages, 4107 KiB  
Article
Whole Genome Analysis of Proteus mirabilis in a Poultry Breeder Farm Reveals the Dissemination of blaNDM and blaCTX-M Mediated by Diverse Mobile Genetic Elements
by Haibin Hu, Ke Wu, Tiejun Zhang, Yuhuan Mou, Luya Liu, Xiaoqin Wang, Wei Xu, Wenping Chen, Xiaojiao Chen, Hongning Wang and Changwei Lei
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 555; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050555 - 5 Mar 2025
Viewed by 932
Abstract
Proteus mirabilis is a significant foodborne opportunistic pathogen associated with various nosocomial infections. Chicken farms may serve as an important reservoir for P. mirabilis. However, research on antibiotic resistance and genomic features of P. mirabilis in China’s poultry industry is limited. This [...] Read more.
Proteus mirabilis is a significant foodborne opportunistic pathogen associated with various nosocomial infections. Chicken farms may serve as an important reservoir for P. mirabilis. However, research on antibiotic resistance and genomic features of P. mirabilis in China’s poultry industry is limited. This study isolates P. mirabilis from a breeder farm in China and investigates the dissemination of P. mirabilis and clinically significant antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), including blaNDM and blaCTX-M. From 510 samples, 69 isolates were obtained, classified into 11 sequence types (STs), with ST135 and ST175 predominating. A total of 39 ARGs were detected, including fosA3, floR, blaCTX-M-3, blaCTX-M-65, and blaNDM-1. Genetic analysis revealed that blaNDM-1 was exclusively located on Salmonella genomic island 1 (SGI1), while blaCTX-M was found in various mobile genetic elements (MGEs), including Tn7, SXT/R391 integrative conjugative elements (ICEs), Proteus mirabilis genomic resistance island 1 (PmGRI1), and SGI1. Notably, many isolates carried multiple MGEs, suggesting frequent horizontal transfer of ARGs in P. mirabilis. These findings underscore the role of P. mirabilis in carrying and spreading antibiotic resistance, posing significant risks to the poultry industry and public health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Animal Diseases in Agricultural Production Systems: Their Veterinary, Zoonotic, and One Health Importance, 2nd Edition)
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27 pages, 1246 KiB  
Article
Energy-Efficient Smart Irrigation Technologies: A Pathway to Water and Energy Sustainability in Agriculture
by Umar Daraz, Štefan Bojnec and Younas Khan
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050554 - 5 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1177
Abstract
The agricultural sector faces challenges such as water scarcity, energy inefficiency, and declining productivity, particularly in arid regions. Traditional irrigation methods contribute to resource depletion and environmental impacts. Solar-powered smart irrigation systems integrate precision irrigation with renewable energy, improving water use and productivity. [...] Read more.
The agricultural sector faces challenges such as water scarcity, energy inefficiency, and declining productivity, particularly in arid regions. Traditional irrigation methods contribute to resource depletion and environmental impacts. Solar-powered smart irrigation systems integrate precision irrigation with renewable energy, improving water use and productivity. In Pakistan, where agriculture contributes 19% of gross domestic product and employs 40% of the workforce, these challenges are severe, especially in water-scarce areas like the Cholistan Desert. This study examines the impact of solar-powered smart irrigation on agricultural productivity, water conservation, and energy efficiency in the Cholistan Desert. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected from 384 farmers via structured questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including multiple linear regression, paired sample t-tests, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), were conducted. Findings show significant improvements in crop yield (from 3.0 to 4.8 tons/hectare) and reductions in water and energy consumption. Regression analysis highlighted strong positive effects on yield and efficiency, while SEM confirmed reduced environmental impact and operational costs. The study concludes that solar-powered irrigation enhances productivity, conserves resources, and promotes sustainability. Policymakers should provide financial incentives, invest in renewable infrastructure, and implement training programs to support adoption. Collaborative efforts are essential for sustainable agriculture in arid regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Energy Economics in Agriculture—2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 19708 KiB  
Article
Exogenous Melatonin Improves the Tibial Performance, Morphology and Metabolism Balance in Rapid Bone Growth Phase of Long Photoperiod Broilers
by Miao Yu, Mengjie Xu, Guangju Wang, Jinghai Feng and Minhong Zhang
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 553; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050553 - 4 Mar 2025
Viewed by 527
Abstract
Bone metabolism dynamic balance is pivotal to bone formation in broilers. Long photoperiods have resulted in leg bones disorders in broilers. Melatonin (MT) is an essential hormone that protects the growth and development of bones, but the functions of melatonin on leg bone [...] Read more.
Bone metabolism dynamic balance is pivotal to bone formation in broilers. Long photoperiods have resulted in leg bones disorders in broilers. Melatonin (MT) is an essential hormone that protects the growth and development of bones, but the functions of melatonin on leg bone metabolism are poorly defined in long photoperiod broilers. A total of 216 healthy 5-day-old Arbor Acres (AA) male broiler chickens were randomly allocated into three treatment groups, i.e., 12L:12D photoperiod, 18L:6D photoperiod, 18L:6D photoperiod with exogenous MT supplementation (18L:6D + MT) for 2 weeks. Here, we found that 18L:6D photoperiod increased tibial length (p < 0.001), circumference (p = 0.012) and long diameter (p = 0.003) of broilers, but decreased the tibial weight index (p = 0.038) and strength. The 18L:6D photoperiod induced the tibial cartilage damage, decreased the osteoblast/osteoclast ratio (p = 0.002) and decreased the medullary cavity collagen fiber (p = 0.018) in broilers. Exogenous MT improved the tibial strength, relieved the tibial cartilage damage, increased the tibia osteoblast activity, alleviated osteoclast recruitment and activation and enhanced the collagen fiber in medullary cavity in long photoperiod broilers. Taken together, exogenous MT improved the tibial performance, morphology and formation of broilers underlying long photoperiod. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farm Animal Production)
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18 pages, 2691 KiB  
Article
Dissipation of Two Acidic Herbicides in Agricultural Soil: Impact of Green Compost Application, Herbicide Rate, and Soil Moisture
by Jesús M. Marín-Benito, María Soledad Andrades, María J. Sánchez-Martín and María Sonia Rodríguez-Cruz
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050552 - 4 Mar 2025
Viewed by 533
Abstract
The residues of the herbicides aminopyralid and iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium are phytotoxic to rotational crops. Their behaviour therefore needs to be studied under different agronomic practises and climatic conditions. The objective of this work was to use controlled laboratory conditions to study the effect of [...] Read more.
The residues of the herbicides aminopyralid and iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium are phytotoxic to rotational crops. Their behaviour therefore needs to be studied under different agronomic practises and climatic conditions. The objective of this work was to use controlled laboratory conditions to study the effect of the following: (i) the application of green compost (GC) to agricultural soil, (ii) herbicide dose, (iii) soil moisture, and (iv) soil microbial activity on the degradation rate of aminopyralid and iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium. Moreover, the formation of two iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium metabolites (metsulfuron-methyl and 2-amino-4-methyl-4-methoxy methyl-triazine) and the dissipation mechanism of labelled 14C-iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium under the same conditions were also studied. Aminopyralid and iodosulfuron-methyl showed slower degradation and half-life values (DT50) that were up to 4.6 and 1.4 times higher, respectively, in soil amended with GC, as the higher organic carbon (OC) content of this soil increased herbicide adsorption. The DT50 values were up to 2.6 and 1.9 times higher for aminopyralid and iodosulfuron-methyl sodium, respectively, in soils treated with the double herbicide dose compared to soils treated with the agronomic dose. The DT50 values for aminopyralid were up to 2.3 times higher in soils with moisture equal to 25% (H25%) of their water-holding capacity (WHC) than in soils with H50%. However, the DT50 values for iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium were slightly lower in soils with H25% than in soils with H50%, due to the formation of bound residues. A biodegradation process significantly contributes to the dissipation of both herbicides. Higher amounts of metabolite metsulfuron-methyl were formed in the GC-amended soil in all cases. The percentages of 14C extractable in soils treated with both doses of herbicide under H25% were slightly higher than in soils under higher soil moisture (H50%) over time, due to the slower degradation of 14C-(iodosulfuron-methyl+metabolites). The higher persistence of the herbicides and their metabolites when the doses were applied at a high rate in soil amended with GC and under low moisture content may have negative consequences for the rotational crop. In the case of adverse conditions leading to the persistence of herbicides in the soil during the primary crop, the intervals for crop rotation should be increased. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Soils)
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24 pages, 6683 KiB  
Article
Effects of Sewage Sludge Compost and Vermicompost on Wheat Yield and Vitality
by Milan Hrčka, Kamil Kraus, Tereza Hřebečková, Barbora Tunklová, Jan Kubeš and Aleš Hanč
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050551 - 4 Mar 2025
Viewed by 721
Abstract
This study investigates the effects of compost and vermicompost derived from sewage sludge and moulded pulp on wheat yield, nutrient uptake, photosynthetic activity, and drought resistance. Optimal weather conditions in March facilitated timely wheat sowing, contributing to ideal yields, while subsequent higher temperatures [...] Read more.
This study investigates the effects of compost and vermicompost derived from sewage sludge and moulded pulp on wheat yield, nutrient uptake, photosynthetic activity, and drought resistance. Optimal weather conditions in March facilitated timely wheat sowing, contributing to ideal yields, while subsequent higher temperatures and rainfall influenced grain formation and weight. The experiment demonstrated that vermicompost significantly enhances plant physiological and yield parameters, including photosynthetic activity, chlorophyll content, and water use efficiency. Fertilized variants exhibited improved soil properties, leading to higher grain and straw yields compared to the control. Macronutrient uptake was notably higher in vermicompost-treated variants, with variant VI showing the highest values. Enhanced photosynthetic activity and drought resistance were observed in fertilized variants, attributed to better stomatal regulation and osmotic adjustment under stress conditions. The study underscores the role of vermicompost in promoting sustainable agriculture by improving nutrient availability, soil structure, and plant resilience. These findings suggest that compost and especially vermicompost applications can effectively enhance wheat productivity and resilience, offering a sustainable approach to improving crop performance under varying environmental conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Production)
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12 pages, 1758 KiB  
Article
The Russia–Ukraine Conflict: A Global Impact Assessment in the Corn and Wheat Sectors
by Nkongho Ayuketang Arreyndip
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050550 - 4 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1021
Abstract
According to data from the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Ukraine was the fifth and ninth global producer and exporter of corn and wheat, respectively, before Russia’s invasion. The disruption of the supply chain in Ukraine in these food [...] Read more.
According to data from the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Ukraine was the fifth and ninth global producer and exporter of corn and wheat, respectively, before Russia’s invasion. The disruption of the supply chain in Ukraine in these food sectors due to the Russian–Ukrainian conflict can hamper global food security. Very little is known about how the war has impacted these important food sectors globally. This paper examines the global impact of the war on the corn and wheat sectors in the first year of the war and investigates the relationship between market vulnerability and trade ties with the conflicting regions. Analysis of FAO data shows that Ukraine suffered a 12.87% and 17.45% production decline in the corn and wheat sectors, respectively, compared to the 2012–2021 base years. Using the Acclimate economic network model, these shocks are applied to Ukraine’s corn and wheat network nodes to analyze their global impact. The production value and total losses are calculated and compared to the base year, both regionally and in some major global economic blocs. The results show that the corn sectors in Germany, Ukraine, Poland, and Belgium suffered the largest production value losses, while Ukraine, China, Venezuela, and Korea suffered the largest overall losses. In the wheat sector, Russia, Germany, Ukraine, and Canada suffered the largest production value losses, while Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and China suffered the largest overall losses. Overall, the corn sector was the hardest hit globally compared to the wheat sector, with the EU, the US, China, South America, and Africa being the hardest hit in the corn sector, while BRICS and Oceania were the hardest hit in the wheat sector. The study equally finds a strong correlation between increased regional food market vulnerability and Ukraine’s trade relations. These findings can contribute to better investment decisions, regional and sectoral emergency management planning, and the development of regulatory frameworks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
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26 pages, 3803 KiB  
Article
Impact of Food Imports on Water Pressure in Food Production in China: An Analysis from the Perspective of Virtual Water Trade
by Ziqiang Li, Weijiao Ye and Ciwen Zheng
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050549 - 4 Mar 2025
Viewed by 395
Abstract
Motivation: Breaking through the constraints of water scarcity is a crucial factor for the efficient and sustainable production of food in China. Objective: To explore a new strategy to alleviate the water resource pressure in food production in China, based on the theory [...] Read more.
Motivation: Breaking through the constraints of water scarcity is a crucial factor for the efficient and sustainable production of food in China. Objective: To explore a new strategy to alleviate the water resource pressure in food production in China, based on the theory of resource flow, this study empirically explores the relationship between food imports and the water pressure in food production in China from the perspective of virtual water trade. Data and Method: This study collects panel data from 30 provincial-level administrative regions in China from 2003 to 2020 and employs methods such as the two-way fixed effects model, instrumental variable approach, and spatial Durbin model for empirical analysis. Results: (1) China’s net food imports surged from −0.000397 billion tons (Bt) in 2003 to 0.118325 Bt in 2020, with a rapid annual growth rate of about 9.37%. Changes in net imports are accompanied by virtual water flows. Between 2003 and 2020, the virtual water content of China’s net food imports increased from 31.7086 Bt to 187.7511 Bt, a yearly increase of 10.39%. (2) Virtual water for food imports has a mitigating effect on the water pressure in food production. Every 0.100 Bt of virtual water imported will reduce the water pressure in food production index by 0.026. The impact has a spatial spillover effect. Moreover, as there is high pressure on water resources in food production in northern regions and major grain-producing areas, the mitigating effect of food imports on the pressure of water resources in food production is also enhanced. The quantile regression found that as the water pressure in food production increases, the mitigating effect of virtual water for food imports on the water pressure in food production gradually increases. Implications: This study examines the relevance of resource flow theory within the context of food trade, thereby broadening the scope of research on virtual water trade in food. Additionally, this study offers valuable insights for the development of strategies aimed at mitigating the pressure on water resources associated with food production in China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Water Management)
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14 pages, 1132 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Four Generations of Milking on Polish Dairy Farms
by Marek Gaworski and Michał Boćkowski
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050548 - 4 Mar 2025
Viewed by 551
Abstract
A crucial area of research in farm dairy production involves evaluating and comparing different milking systems. By comparing a wide range of milking equipment used in dairy farms, it is possible to identify trends in changes in milking efficiency with data, including those [...] Read more.
A crucial area of research in farm dairy production involves evaluating and comparing different milking systems. By comparing a wide range of milking equipment used in dairy farms, it is possible to identify trends in changes in milking efficiency with data, including those characterizing cow herds. In this research study, five generations of milking (GI-GV) were distinguished, ranging from hand milking (GI generation) to automated milking, AMS (GV generation), according to the applied methodology. Twenty-eight farms representing a different generation of mechanical milking (GII-GV) were selected for the study. Data on the size of the cow herd, annual milk yield per cow, number of milking clusters, number of milkers, and daily milking time were collected from these farms. Data from the dairy farms included in the study allowed us to find an increase in the annual milk yield of cows in farms with increasingly higher milking generations (GII-GV), from 5211 to 8977 L per cow per year. Compared to the lowest milking generation (GII), the highest milking generation (GV) was distinguished by 11 times more milking per cluster per day, 14 times more milk milked by the cluster per year, and nine times more human labor efficiency. The research study provides the basis for assessing the effectiveness of implementing technical and technological progress in cow milking. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economics of Milk Production and Processing)
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15 pages, 1388 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Breed and Production Diversity in Dual Purpose Cattle Systems in Colombia: Opportunities for Its Sustainability
by William Burgos-Paz, Yury Pérez-Escobar, Eduardo Castillo Losada, Leidy Rivera-Sanchez and Sergio Falla-Tapias
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050547 - 4 Mar 2025
Viewed by 583
Abstract
Approximately 60% of milk production in Colombia comes from dual-purpose (DP) systems, which face limitations in defining racial composition and maintaining production records for genetic resource management in the regions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the phenotypic diversity of cattle [...] Read more.
Approximately 60% of milk production in Colombia comes from dual-purpose (DP) systems, which face limitations in defining racial composition and maintaining production records for genetic resource management in the regions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the phenotypic diversity of cattle in DP systems and generate indicators that link this diversity to productivity, contributing to sustainability in these territories. A total of 2760 animals were phenotypically classified using two criteria associated with Breed Classification (BC) and Apparent Phenotypic Predominance (APP). Linear mixed models including fixed effects of region, covariates of age of cow and days in milk, and animal as random effect, were applied to daily milk records from 2042 cows to estimate the productivity of the breed assignment criteria in the genetic resource management. Most animals (66.92%) were assigned to the Mixed genetic group because its unknown genetic origin. Based on BC the second group comprise individuals classified as Crossbred (10.72%) that exhibit known genetic origin, but their genetic management was hindered by the lack of productive information. Meanwhile, the APP criteria was relevant to describe how either zebuine or taurine breed predominance influenced the daily milk production (3.52 ± 0.76 to 5.8 ± 0.14 kg, respectively) of individuals according to the environmental offerings in the regions. When assessing the impact of phenotypic selection processes in females based on a 1 kg increase in daily milk production could raise the population’s average daily productivity by 0.49 kg. However, this approach poses a risk to the inventory of Mixed animals, which have been used as a genetic resource adapted to the region for several decades. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farm Animal Production)
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26 pages, 5231 KiB  
Review
Agricultural and Municipal Biowaste Within the Circular Economy Framework: A Bibliometric Analysis
by Ginevra Giacomello, Niccolò Leonardi, Davide Assandri and Niccolò Pampuro
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050546 - 4 Mar 2025
Viewed by 608
Abstract
Municipal and agricultural biowaste are a significant portion of the global waste stream and represent an environmental challenge that must be addressed sustainably. The literature on the topic has increased dramatically, and a bibliometric analysis is a necessary guide through this ever-growing production. [...] Read more.
Municipal and agricultural biowaste are a significant portion of the global waste stream and represent an environmental challenge that must be addressed sustainably. The literature on the topic has increased dramatically, and a bibliometric analysis is a necessary guide through this ever-growing production. This study gives an objective overview of the state of the art and topic evolution of biowaste within sustainability/circular economy frameworks. This bibliometric analysis serves as a starting point for further qualitative research, while offering opportunities for future collaborations. Two parallel searches were conducted in Scopus, agri-food/agricultural (2391 papers) and municipal (264 papers) biowaste within sustainability/circular economy concepts, and analyzed with VosViewer (version 1.6.20.0) and Excel (version 1808). This review analyzes the following: annual scientific production and countries involved, showing the US and Italy as leaders on both topics; most productive authors (only 0.2% wrote at least five papers) and affiliations and underlying international, even if static, collaborations; most influential publications and sources (Science of the Total Environment, Journal of Cleaner Production, Sustainability); evolution of keywords over time; and strengths and limitations of the bibliometric approach. It also highlights the potential for future research and collaboration. Furthermore, it underlines waste management’s evolution from a sustainable point of view towards a circular economy approach and differences between municipal and agricultural biowaste scientific production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
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17 pages, 2459 KiB  
Article
Rapid Detection of Available Cr(VI) in Soil Based on pXRF Combined with Ion-Exchange Resin
by Taige Fu, Wei Liu, Xinglan Fu, Yuehua Huang, Huanhuan Lou, Jie Song and Guanglin Li
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050545 - 3 Mar 2025
Viewed by 670
Abstract
The detection of available Cr(VI) in soil is critical due to its high uptake by plants, which enables it to enter the food chain and pose significant health risks to humans. Traditional detection methods are often time-consuming and labor-intensive, limiting their suitability for [...] Read more.
The detection of available Cr(VI) in soil is critical due to its high uptake by plants, which enables it to enter the food chain and pose significant health risks to humans. Traditional detection methods are often time-consuming and labor-intensive, limiting their suitability for rapid, on-site measurements. This study introduces a novel approach for the rapid detection of available Cr(VI) in soil, utilizing portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (pXRF) in combination with ion-exchange resin. The method was validated using soil samples from three distinct regions, representing three different soil types. Compared to conventional laboratory methods, the detection rates for Cr(VI) ranged from 80.73% to 124.14%, with relative standard deviations for repeated analyses ranging from 3.05% to 5.73%, both of which comply with national standards. Regression analysis confirms a strong linear relationship between spectral values and Cr(VI) concentration in standard solutions (R2 = 0.9986). Through resin enrichment, the detection limit (LoD) for Cr(VI) in soil solution reaches 0.070 mg/kg, facilitating trace-level detection of available Cr(VI) in soil. In contrast to traditional methods, the pXRF-ion-exchange resin approach minimizes secondary environmental contamination, is cost-effective and time-efficient, and does not require complex soil pretreatment. Consequently, it is highly suitable for rapid, on-site soil analysis. This study presents an innovative method for the detection of available Cr(VI) in soils. This approach effectively reduced analysis time and simplified sample pretreatment, and thus holds substantial potential for practical application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Soils)
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29 pages, 6798 KiB  
Article
A Coupled Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator–Backpropagation Model for Estimating Evapotranspiration in Xizang Plateau Irrigation Districts with Reduced Meteorological Variables
by Qiang Meng, Jingxia Liu, Fengrui Li, Peng Chen, Junzeng Xu, Yawei Li, Tangzhe Nie and Yu Han
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050544 - 3 Mar 2025
Viewed by 585
Abstract
This study addresses the challenge of estimating reference crop evapotranspiration (ETO) in Xizang Plateau irrigation districts with limited meteorological data by proposing a coupled LASSO-BP model that integrates LASSO regression with a BP neural network. The model was applied to three [...] Read more.
This study addresses the challenge of estimating reference crop evapotranspiration (ETO) in Xizang Plateau irrigation districts with limited meteorological data by proposing a coupled LASSO-BP model that integrates LASSO regression with a BP neural network. The model was applied to three irrigation districts: Moda (MD), Jiangbei (JB), and Manla (ML). Using ETO values calculated by the FAO-56 Penman–Monteith (FAO-56PM) model as a benchmark, the performance and applicability of the LASSO-BP model were assessed. Short-term ETO predictions for the three districts were also conducted using the mean-generating function optimal subset regression algorithm. The results revealed significant multicollinearity among six meteorological factors (maximum temperature, minimum temperature, average temperature, average relative humidity, sunshine duration, and average wind speed), as identified through tolerance, variance inflation factor (VIF), and eigenvalue analysis. The LASSO-BP model effectively captured the interannual variation of ETO, accurately identifying peaks and troughs, with trends closely aligned with the FAO-56PM model. The model demonstrated strong performance across all three districts, with evaluation metrics showing MAE, RMSE, NSE, and R2 values ranging from 4.26 to 9.48 mm·a−1, 5.91 to 11.78 mm·a−1, 0.92 to 0.96, and 0.82 to 0.94, respectively. Prediction results indicated a statistically insignificant declining trend in annual ETO across the three districts over the study period. Overall, the LASSO-BP model is a reliable and accurate tool for estimating ETO in Xizang Plateau irrigation districts with limited meteorological data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Water Management)
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14 pages, 3080 KiB  
Article
Roles of N and P in Soil Acidification, Metals Mobilization and Bioavailable Concentration-Based Soil Fertility Assessment in Tea Plantations in Yunnan, China
by Fuxin Ye, Ziwen Luo, Yongwang Ju, Qin Huan and Xue Liu
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050543 - 3 Mar 2025
Viewed by 545
Abstract
Tea yield is determined by soil fertility. An elemental bioavailable-content-based fertility assessment is more reliable than that of total content. In tea plantations, soil acidification occurs, affecting metals’ bioavailability and fertility, yet the relations are unclear. Soils (n = 190) were sampled in [...] Read more.
Tea yield is determined by soil fertility. An elemental bioavailable-content-based fertility assessment is more reliable than that of total content. In tea plantations, soil acidification occurs, affecting metals’ bioavailability and fertility, yet the relations are unclear. Soils (n = 190) were sampled in five major tea-producing regions in Yunnan, China. Bioavailable concentrations of fertilizers (N and P) and essential metals (Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn) were analyzed and involved in the fertility evaluation. Soils were acidified (pH = 3.44–5.53), and were partially attributed to excess N-fertilization (R = −0.26; p < 0.01). Soil acidification increased Mg, Fe and Mn bioavailability (R = −0.021, −0.087 and −0.13). P played an important role in improving metals’ bioavailability (R = 0.20–0.48; p < 0.01). Bioavailable metals showed strong heterogeneity. Therefore, the nutritional level distributions of individual indices were complex and inconsistent, so multi-indices were used to achieve more accurate assessments. This study clarified the strong correlation between N-fertilization and soil acidification, and the key role of P in improving metals’ bioavailability and fertility. The data suggest that bioavailable Cu and Zn are suitable for plant growth, Ca and Mg should be enhanced without decreasing P bioavailability, and the potential toxic effect of excessive Mn should be paid attention. The information helps to strategize scientific fertilization and management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Soils)
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20 pages, 6136 KiB  
Article
Effects of Tillage Practices on Soil Properties and Maize Yield in Different Types of Soda Saline–Alkali Soils
by Limin Jiang, Anrui Ning, Min Liu, Yanhan Zhu, Junwei Huang, Yingjie Guo, Weizhi Feng, Daping Fu, Hongbin Wang and Jingli Wang
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050542 - 2 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1063
Abstract
The implementation of scientific cultivation practices on soda saline–alkali land plays a pivotal role in safeguarding food security and promoting sustainable agro-economic development at the regional scale. However, there exists a critical knowledge gap regarding the optimization of tillage strategies for rain-fed maize [...] Read more.
The implementation of scientific cultivation practices on soda saline–alkali land plays a pivotal role in safeguarding food security and promoting sustainable agro-economic development at the regional scale. However, there exists a critical knowledge gap regarding the optimization of tillage strategies for rain-fed maize (Zea mays L.) cultivation across heterogeneous saline–alkali soil matrices. This study selected meadow alkaline soil, saline meadow soil, and mild saline–alkali soil under the typical micro-landscape morphological characteristics of soda saline–alkali soil in the Songnen Plain as experimental plots. Under three tillage methods, namely no tillage (NT), rotary tillage + no tillage (RT), and subsoiling + rotary tillage + no tillage (SRT), the effects of the tillage methods on the soil physical properties at the seedling stage, root development at the V6 stage, and yield at the R6 stage during the process of cultivating maize in different types of soils were analyzed. The research results showed that compared with NT and RT, the SRT treatment better improved the physical properties, such as penetration resistance and the bulk density in micro-spaces (0–40 cm), of different soil types. The SRT treatment had a positive impact on the root development of maize seedlings in saline meadow soil and meadow alkaline soil. In terms of yield, compared with the NT treatment, the SRT treatment in meadow alkaline soil and saline meadow soil had a positive effect on the plant height, root dry weight, 1000–grain weight, and grain yield of maize. The increases in maize grain yield were 27.94% and 13.24%, respectively. Compared with NT, the differences in the effects of the SRT and RT treatments on maize yield in mild saline-alkali soil were the smallest, being 6.98% and 4.77%, respectively. The relevant results provide guidance on tillage methods and a theoretical basis for improving the properties of different types of soda saline–alkali soils and increasing maize yield. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Crop Management on Yields)
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26 pages, 2711 KiB  
Article
How Has Agricultural Financing Research Evolved? A Bibliometric Analysis of Emerging Trends and Key Factors
by Florina Grecu, Gabriela Badareu, Cătălin Roșculete, Marian Ilie Siminică, Daniel Cîrciumaru, Silviu Cârstina and Nicoleta Mihaela Doran
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050541 - 2 Mar 2025
Viewed by 828
Abstract
Agricultural financing is a key global topic impacting sustainable development, food security, and environmental protection. This article presents a bibliometric analysis of research evolution in agricultural financing from 1975–2025, using the Web of Science and VOSviewer 1.6.18 platforms. The findings indicate a significant [...] Read more.
Agricultural financing is a key global topic impacting sustainable development, food security, and environmental protection. This article presents a bibliometric analysis of research evolution in agricultural financing from 1975–2025, using the Web of Science and VOSviewer 1.6.18 platforms. The findings indicate a significant increase in interest, with agricultural financing emerging as a critical pillar for sector sustainability. Research in this field is shaped by a global network of collaborations, supported by major international organizations, contributing to innovative policy development. The study highlights key themes such as climate change, food security, and access to financing, as well as the diversification of financial resources. Countries with strong agricultural traditions have been central to this process, while others with fewer resources have achieved excellence through strategic approaches. Recent research underscores the role of agricultural financing in fostering a sustainable sector, with a focus on advanced technologies and international partnerships. This study provides a preliminary bibliometric overview of the evolution and growth of agricultural financing, identifying key influencing factors. It contributes to the existing literature and offers directions for future research, emphasizing emerging trends and significant academic contributions in the field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
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21 pages, 3888 KiB  
Article
Indigenous Greek Horse Breeds: Genetic Structure and the Influence of Foreign Breeds
by Myrina Emilio Katsoulakou, Nikolaos Kostaras, H. Josefina Kjöllerström, George P. Laliotis, Iosif Bizelis, E. Gus Cothran, Rytis Juras and Panagiota Koutsouli
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050540 - 1 Mar 2025
Viewed by 2102
Abstract
This study aims to examine the genetic structure and diversity levels of seven indigenous Greek horse breeds: Andravida, Pindos, Thessaly, Skyros, Penia, Messara and Rodos, using 15 microsatellites. Phenotypic traits were combined with factorial correspondence analyses to create two datasets: one “Baseline” containing [...] Read more.
This study aims to examine the genetic structure and diversity levels of seven indigenous Greek horse breeds: Andravida, Pindos, Thessaly, Skyros, Penia, Messara and Rodos, using 15 microsatellites. Phenotypic traits were combined with factorial correspondence analyses to create two datasets: one “Baseline” containing typical samples, and one “Unknown” with non-typical or of disputed origin samples. In the Greek “Baseline” horses, 142 alleles were found. The mean observed and effective number of alleles, the polymorphism information content and the allelic richness were 6.75, 4.14, 0.63 and 5.12, respectively. The expected and observed heterozygosity and inbreeding coefficient varied between 0.81 and 0.29 and 0.79 and 0.24. The above dataset was enriched with data from 41 foreign horse breeds and 40 Przewalski samples to perform a breed assignment. The highest percentage of successfully assigned samples was for Skyros, Messara and Rodos, with rates of 93%, 89% and 100%, respectively, suggesting their considerable homogeneity, while Andravida, Pindos, Thessaly and Penia scored 32.5, 34.1, 44.0 and 45.7%, respectively. Structural analysis confirmed the results of FCA and showed the genetic similarities of the above breeds. The results revealed the influence of foreign breeds (mainly Garrano, Turkoman, Irish Draft, Hanoverian and Belgian Draft). There is an urgent need to implement management measures for the pure homogeneous breeds and selection strategies for the remaining breeds which are genetically similar. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Genetic Improvement of Farm Animals Using Genomic Tools)
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Article
Development of an Algorithm for Predicting Broiler Shipment Weight in a Smart Farm Environment
by Bohyeok Lee and Juwhan Song
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050539 - 1 Mar 2025
Viewed by 457
Abstract
The weight information of broilers is important for understanding the growth progress of broilers and adjusting the breeding schedule, and predicting the broiler live weight at the time of shipment is an important task for producing high-quality broilers that meet consumer demand. To [...] Read more.
The weight information of broilers is important for understanding the growth progress of broilers and adjusting the breeding schedule, and predicting the broiler live weight at the time of shipment is an important task for producing high-quality broilers that meet consumer demand. To this end, we plan to analyze the broiler weight data automatically measured in a smart broiler house with an intelligent system and conduct a study to predict the weight until the time of shipment. To estimate the accurate daily body weight representative value of broiler body weight data, the K-means clustering method and the kernel density estimation method were applied, and the growth trends generated by each method were used as training data for the Prophet predictor, double exponential smoothing predictor, ARIMA predictor, and Gompertz growth model. The experimental results showed that the K-means + Prophet predictor model recorded the best prediction performance among the algorithm combinations proposed in this paper. The prediction results of the algorithm presented in this paper can analyze the growth progress of broilers in actual broiler houses and can be used as meaningful judgment data for adjusting the breeding schedule considering the time of shipment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Digital Agriculture)
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