Plants

22 pages, 6072 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Deep Learning Model for Chili Pepper Fruit Shape Classification Using DenseNet-121 and CBAM

by Zongjun Li, Yinghua Li, Hu Zhao, Liping Huang, Zengjing Zhao, Jianjie Liao, Meng Wang, Xing Wu, Mingxia Gong, Zhi He, Liyan Liu and Risheng Wang

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2103; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132103 - 7 Jul 2026

Viewed by 544

Abstract

Traditional manual grading of fresh chili peppers suffers from inconsistent quality control and low efficiency. To meet the demand for accurate fruit shape recognition during the post-harvest stage, this study proposes an intelligent recognition method based on an improved DenseNet-121 network. This approach [...] Read more.

Traditional manual grading of fresh chili peppers suffers from inconsistent quality control and low efficiency. To meet the demand for accurate fruit shape recognition during the post-harvest stage, this study proposes an intelligent recognition method based on an improved DenseNet-121 network. This approach facilitates the application of machine vision in agricultural sorting equipment. DenseNet-121 serves as the backbone network. The Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) is introduced to enhance feature focus on fruit shapes. A regularization strategy (Dropout = 0.3, weight decay = 1 × 10⁻⁴) and a cross-entropy loss function with label smoothing (LS = 0.1) are integrated to optimize decision boundaries. These configurations prevent the model from overfitting to hard training labels and yield a robust classification architecture. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model achieves a precision of 90.09%, a recall of 89.60%, an F1-score (the harmonic mean of precision and recall) of 89.53%, and an overall accuracy of 89.74%. The model contains 7.09 M parameters and requires a single-frame inference time of 7.35 ms. Comprehensive evaluations indicate that the proposed model achieves an optimal balance among environmental noise robustness, prediction accuracy, and computational efficiency. Consequently, by maintaining high fine-grained classification accuracy alongside a low memory footprint and rapid inference speed, the model demonstrates strong potential for real-time deployment on resource-constrained edge devices within actual agricultural optical sorting equipment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computer Vision Techniques for Plant Phenomics Applications)

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25 pages, 2180 KB

Open AccessReview

Jasmonate Biosynthesis Across Bryophyte Lineages: Lessons from Marchantia polymorpha and Beyond

by Lucia Galassi, Francisco Medina-Paz and Guillermo H. Jimenez-Aleman

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2102; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132102 - 7 Jul 2026

Viewed by 526

Abstract

Jasmonates are lipid-derived phytohormones that regulate plant development and defense across the green lineage. Thus, understanding the intricacies of jasmonate biosynthesis and signaling is of paramount importance to improve crop yields and food safety. For the last 40 years, the canonical jasmonate biosynthetic [...] Read more.

Jasmonates are lipid-derived phytohormones that regulate plant development and defense across the green lineage. Thus, understanding the intricacies of jasmonate biosynthesis and signaling is of paramount importance to improve crop yields and food safety. For the last 40 years, the canonical jasmonate biosynthetic pathway has been thoroughly dissected in angiosperms; however, only recent efforts have started to decode the alternative jasmonate biosynthetic networks that operate in bryophytes. In the nonvascular model Marchantia polymorpha, a cis-to-iso isomerization constitutes a key step in the formation of dn-iso-OPDA and Δ⁴-dn-iso-OPDA, the bioactive jasmonates recognized by a conserved COI1/JAZ co-receptor complex. Their biosynthesis depends on a uniquely expanded fatty acid repertoire that includes, alongside the canonical C₁₆ and C₁₈ omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) found in angiosperms, substantial pools of eicosanoids such as arachidonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, essentially absent from flowering plants. Here we trace the jasmonate biosynthetic pathway in bryophytes step-by-step, from PUFA precursors production through lipoxygenase oxygenation and downstream reactions to the processing and catabolic modifications of bioactive compounds. By integrating current knowledge across bryophyte lineages, we identify mechanistic parallels and divergences relative to angiosperms, highlight key unresolved questions, and propose future directions for the field. Deciphering jasmonate biosynthesis in bryophytes is essential for reconstructing the evolutionary origins of jasmonate signaling and understanding how this pathway contributed to the successful colonization of land by plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advancements in Jasmonate Research)

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21 pages, 3398 KB

Open AccessArticle

Composition of Different Herbal Extracts and Their Impact on Initial Bacterial Colonization on Enamel In Situ

by Theresa Schneider, Isabelle Kölling-Speer, Sarah Hellmann, Cindy Scheunemann, Karl Speer, Christian Hannig, Matthias Hannig and Jasmin Flemming

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2101; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132101 - 7 Jul 2026

Viewed by 410

Abstract

Foods rich in polyphenols are known to promote oral health by modifying the enamel pellicle. In doing so, they reduce bacterial adhesion, biofilm maturation, and erosion. The goal of this study was to screen local herbal drugs available in Central Europe for their [...] Read more.

Foods rich in polyphenols are known to promote oral health by modifying the enamel pellicle. In doing so, they reduce bacterial adhesion, biofilm maturation, and erosion. The goal of this study was to screen local herbal drugs available in Central Europe for their potential suitability as part of a diet promoting oral health by targeting the initial stages of biofilm formation. To achieve this, an in situ study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the four polyphenol-rich herbal extracts of blackcurrant leaves, oak bark, horse chestnut leaves, and sweet chestnut leaves on early bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation on tooth enamel over an 8 h period. This research aimed to identify natural remedies that could support oral hygiene by targeting the initial stages of biofilm formation. Study Design and Experimental Procedures: Aqueous extracts were prepared by ultrasonic extraction. Eight human subjects wore bovine enamel slabs intraorally for 8 h. After 1 min of pellicle formation, the subjects rinsed with 8 mL of the extracts for 10 min, followed by intraoral exposure without food. An 8 h-exposure without rinse served as the negative control; 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) served as the positive control. After 8 h, bacterial adhesion and biofilm matrix formation on the enamel slabs were quantified ex vivo using DAPI/Concanavalin A staining and fluorescence microscopy. The LIVE/DEAD™ BacLight™ assay was used to assess bacterial viability. Statistical analysis was performed by the Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal–Wallis test (p < 0.05), as well as the Bonferroni–Holm correction (p < 0.01). Results and Conclusions: The screened herbal drugs did not demonstrate a statistically significant impact on the number of adherent bacteria, suggesting that their mode of action may not directly interfere with bacterial adhesion mechanisms. However, all four extracts exhibited consistent trends toward reduced glucan formation and decreased bacterial viability. The observed inhibition of glucan formation indicates that these drugs may potentially target the enzymatic pathways responsible for polysaccharide synthesis. By disrupting glucan production, the structural integrity of the biofilm matrix might be compromised, which indirectly affects bacterial survival within the biofilm environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactives from Plants: From Extraction to Functional Food Innovation)

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26 pages, 7691 KB

Open AccessReview

Extrafloral Nectaries in Woody Plants: Toward an Integrated Framework for Ant-Mediated Plant Defense

by Fangming Liu, Qifei Cai, Victor Busov and Zhen Liu

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2100; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132100 - 7 Jul 2026

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Abstract

Extrafloral nectaries (EFNs)—secretory structures that recruit predatory arthropods as indirect defenders against herbivory—have been studied almost exclusively in herbaceous systems, leaving a critical gap in our understanding of plant defense in woody plants. In trees, secondary growth, ontogenetic regulation, and seasonal phenology generate [...] Read more.

Extrafloral nectaries (EFNs)—secretory structures that recruit predatory arthropods as indirect defenders against herbivory—have been studied almost exclusively in herbaceous systems, leaving a critical gap in our understanding of plant defense in woody plants. In trees, secondary growth, ontogenetic regulation, and seasonal phenology generate structural and temporal heterogeneity in EFN expression poorly captured by existing frameworks. We synthesize evidence across structural, chemical, and functional dimensions of EFN biology to develop an integrated framework for perennial trees. Our analysis suggests that methodological limitations in EFN detection likely bias the current chemical record of woody EFNs, while incomplete chemical characterization constrains the evaluation of their ecological functions. Existing evidence confirms that herbivory-inducible EFN secretion and ant-mediated defense operate in trees, but their generality across ontogenetic stages, seasons, and woody lineages remains unresolved. We propose Idesia polycarpa (Salicaceae) as a candidate model system for mechanistic EFN research in trees, supported by confirmed secretory activity, documented ant visitation, and a well-characterized genomic and phylogenetic context, and offer four testable predictions to guide future work on indirect defense in long-lived woody plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Ecology)

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17 pages, 5206 KB

Open AccessArticle

Foliar Application of MgO Nanoparticles Modulates Magnesium Nutrition and Fruit Quality in Loquat Under Mg-Deficient Conditions

by Yuxiao Yang, Jinrun Ni, Wenkai Wang, Chang Lu, Jingjing Wan, Bilal Hussain, Xiaoe Yang and Shane Wang

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2099; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132099 - 6 Jul 2026

Viewed by 372

Abstract

Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is common in acidic orchard soils and can limit fruit crop growth and quality. This study evaluated whether foliar-applied magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) could improve Mg nutrition and fruit quality in ‘Ninghaibai’ loquat grown under Mg-deficient acidic soil conditions. [...] Read more.

Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is common in acidic orchard soils and can limit fruit crop growth and quality. This study evaluated whether foliar-applied magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) could improve Mg nutrition and fruit quality in ‘Ninghaibai’ loquat grown under Mg-deficient acidic soil conditions. Pot and field experiments were conducted using water as the control and MgSO₄-50eq as an equimolar Mg comparator. MgO NPs showed a concentration-dependent effect, and 200 mg/L produced the best overall performance among the tested concentrations. At this concentration, total biomass increased by 47.27%, compared with CK, accompanied by enhanced chlorophyll accumulation, antioxidant enzyme activities, and Mg uptake. In fruit, 200 mg/L MgO NPs increased soluble solids content by 45.67% and reduced titratable acidity by 53.26%, while also improving fruit size and sugar–acid balance. Leaf transcriptome analysis suggested that MgO NPs altered the expression of genes involved in metabolism, stress response, and secondary metabolite biosynthesis. At the 50 mg/L level, MgO NPs produced stronger responses than the equimolar MgSO₄ treatment in Mg uptake, nutrient acquisition, and several fruit-quality traits. However, excessive application at 500 mg/L weakened growth and quality improvement. Overall, foliar application of 200 mg/L MgO NPs may represent a promising strategy for improving loquat growth and fruit quality under the tested Mg-deficient conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrient Requirements and Fertilizer Management Strategies in Plant Cultivation, Second Edition)

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30 pages, 4946 KB

Open AccessArticle

Moss Cover Redirects Soil Organic Carbon from Active Turnover to Mineral-Associated Stabilization in Subalpine Forests

by Jiahui Huang, Xiaoyu Zhang, Yu Tian, Guo Luo, Dajun Xie, Jinxiao Li, Baoli Duan and Shuming Peng

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2098; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132098 - 6 Jul 2026

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Abstract

Understory mosses modify near-surface soil conditions, but how elevation regulates their influence on active and mineral-associated soil organic carbon (SOC) remains unclear. We compared independently selected moss-covered and non-moss-covered soils across a 3200–3500 m elevational gradient and integrated soil physicochemical measurements, microbial biomass [...] Read more.

Understory mosses modify near-surface soil conditions, but how elevation regulates their influence on active and mineral-associated soil organic carbon (SOC) remains unclear. We compared independently selected moss-covered and non-moss-covered soils across a 3200–3500 m elevational gradient and integrated soil physicochemical measurements, microbial biomass (MB), dissolved organic matter (DOM), microbial necromass carbon (MNC), particulate organic carbon (POC), mineral-associated organic carbon (MAOC), metagenomic profiling, and piecewise structural equation modeling. Moss-covered soils consistently contained higher SOC and MAOC, but lower DOM, MB, and generally lower POC, than non-moss-covered soils. MNC showed an elevation-dependent reversal, with higher values under moss cover at 3200 m but lower values under moss cover at 3300–3500 m. Elevation was not a significant uniform driver of MB, DOM, MNC, POC, or MAOC; instead, its influence was mainly reflected in interactions with surface cover and in elevation-related changes in moss-layer structure, diversity, and hydrothermal conditions. Core carbon-fixation and degradation functions remained broadly stable, whereas specific functional modules shifted within moss-covered soils: acetate and acetyl-CoA metabolism genes (ackA and abfD) were relatively abundant at 3300–3400 m, while the polysaccharide-reprocessing gene SGA1 and oxidative-transformation gene katG increased toward higher elevations, and pmoC/amoC rebounded at 3500 m. Structural equation models linked the microbial functional gene system more strongly to POC, whereas MNC was positively associated with MAOC, and the direct POC-to-MAOC pathway was not significant. These findings indicate that moss cover is associated with contrasting SOC allocation patterns and stronger microbial necromass–MAOC coupling, while elevation modulates these relationships indirectly through changes in moss communities, soil microenvironment, and microbial functional potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Understory Plant–Soil Carbon Coupling in Agroforestry Systems)

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22 pages, 3562 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Biochar Addition and Nitrogen Application Rate on Soil Properties and Agronomic Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Artificial Grasslands

by Wenhao Wang, Asitaiken Julihaiti, Helong Yang, Xin Wang, Kejian Lin, Zhi Xing and Lingqi Kong

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2097; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132097 - 6 Jul 2026

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Abstract

In modern livestock production, a reliable supply of high-quality forage is essential for sustaining animal productivity and product quality. Although nitrogen (N) fertilization can promote forage growth, excessive N inputs often result in low agronomic nitrogen use efficiency (NAUE) and increased environmental risks. [...] Read more.

In modern livestock production, a reliable supply of high-quality forage is essential for sustaining animal productivity and product quality. Although nitrogen (N) fertilization can promote forage growth, excessive N inputs often result in low agronomic nitrogen use efficiency (NAUE) and increased environmental risks. Biochar, owing to its porous structure, high specific surface area, and physicochemical stability, can improve soil physical properties, enhance water and nutrient retention, and regulate soil N availability. However, the mechanisms by which biochar combined with reduced N rate fertilization affects NAUE in artificial grasslands remain insufficiently quantified. A two-year field experiment was conducted at the Grassland Science Experimental Station of Xinjiang Agricultural University on the northern slope of the Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang, China. Eight treatments were established using a factorial design with two biochar rates (0 and 20 t·ha⁻¹; B0 and B20) and four N application rates (0, 75, 150, and 225 kg·ha⁻¹; N0, N75, N150, and N225). Results showed that biochar application significantly decreased soil bulk density and increased soil water content and electrical conductivity. It also elevated soil total carbon, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, NH₄⁺–N, and NO₃⁻–N concentrations, with B20N150 exhibiting the highest overall nutrient status. Plant community diversity indices did not differ significantly among treatments (p > 0.05), though B20 slightly enhanced Shannon–Wiener and Simpson indices under N0 and N75. Moderate N application significantly increased hay yield, whereas the highest N rate (225 kg·ha⁻¹) did not further improve yield and reduced NAUE. Biochar combined with N75 or N150 improved NAUE, and B20N150 achieved the best balance of high hay yield and high NAUE. Structural equation modeling revealed that soil water content (path coefficient = 0.45), NH₄⁺–N (0.27), and plant community diversity (0.20) were key positive drivers of NAUE, with biochar exerting indirect effects primarily via improving soil water and available N. Collectively, applying 20 t·ha⁻¹ biochar with 150 kg·ha⁻¹ N (B20N150) is recommended as an optimal strategy for N rate reduction and NAUE enhancement in artificial grasslands of arid and semiarid regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forage and Sustainable Agriculture)

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30 pages, 6814 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Consumption of Edible Leaves by Afro-Descendants in French Guiana and Suriname: An Overview of a Constantly Evolving Ethno-Culinary Practice

by Marc-Alexandre Tareau, Alexander M. Greene, Clarisse Ansoe-Tareau, Nicholaas Pinas and Michael Rapinski

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2096; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132096 - 6 Jul 2026

Viewed by 807

Abstract

This paper explores the culinary and cultural significance of cooked leafy vegetables among Afro-descendant communities in French Guiana and Suriname, including French Guianese and Surinamese Creoles, Maroons, and Haitian migrants. While leafy greens play a major dietary role across sub-Saharan Africa, their consumption [...] Read more.

This paper explores the culinary and cultural significance of cooked leafy vegetables among Afro-descendant communities in French Guiana and Suriname, including French Guianese and Surinamese Creoles, Maroons, and Haitian migrants. While leafy greens play a major dietary role across sub-Saharan Africa, their consumption in the Americas remains understudied. This ethnobotanical study of edible leafy plants is based on surveys of local markets, gardens and residents. Drawing on 26 informal interviews conducted in four local languages (French, French Guianese Creole, Haitian Creole, and Nengee Tongo), we describe 36 species of edible leaves from 20 plant families consumed in the region. Our findings show that although the practice of eating leafy greens is widely shared, the species selected, their names, and their perceived properties vary noticeably across cultural groups. Some plants are eaten exclusively by Maroons (e.g., Cestrum latifolium, Capsicum spp.), others by Haitians (e.g., Corchorus olitorius, Rivina humilis), and some have fallen into disuse among younger generations. These differences are shaped by ecological availability, cultural memory, food-medicine beliefs, and interethnic influences. We suggest that the term callaloo (referring to both dishes and leafy vegetables), which circulates in multiple linguistic and culinary forms throughout the African diaspora, can serve as a metaphor for the interculturalization of foodways. More than ingredients, these leafy vegetables act as dynamic cultural markers—symbols of resilience, transmission, and transformation. In a context of rapid globalization, where unseen foods risk sinking further into obscurity, these plant-based traditions highlight both the adaptability and fragility of Afro-descendant culinary heritage in the Guiana Shield. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Studies on Plant–Humans Interactions as a Means for Fostering a More Sustainable Future)

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39 pages, 4800 KB

Open AccessArticle

Germplasm Mining of Prunus domestica L.: Multi-Year Assessment of Pomological Characters to Identify Candidate Elite Donor Parents for European Plum Breeding and Their Genetic Evaluation

by Michaela Marklová, Liliia Pavliuk, Jana Čmejlová, Boris Krška and Jiří Sedlák

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2095; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132095 - 6 Jul 2026

Viewed by 467

Abstract

European plum (Prunus domestica L.) breeding for competitive production increasingly requires donor parents that combine attractive, market-oriented fruit quality with stable trait expression. This study evaluated a set of 36 phenotypically highly different cultivars from the germplasm collection maintained at the Research [...] Read more.

European plum (Prunus domestica L.) breeding for competitive production increasingly requires donor parents that combine attractive, market-oriented fruit quality with stable trait expression. This study evaluated a set of 36 phenotypically highly different cultivars from the germplasm collection maintained at the Research and Breeding Institute of Pomology Holovousy Ltd. (the Czech Republic). First, genetic analyses based on SSR marker data were performed to assess the diversity and kinship relationships within the selected collection of plum varieties. Several parentage combinations were successfully identified for cultivars with previously undocumented origins. Population-level analyses confirmed broad genetic diversity and separated the collection into four genetically distinct groups. Phenotypes were obtained on fruits ripened on trees from a non-irrigated orchard on myrobalan rootstock over five consecutive years (2019–2023). Pomological and related quality traits were recorded using nine-point UPOV-based rating scales together with instrumental measurements. The dataset included fruit size and shape descriptors, skin and flesh color, wax bloom, soluble solids (°Brix), firmness, bruising resistance, stone separability, and sensory attributes (flavor, aroma, juiciness, texture, and acidity). Interannual variability was quantified using coefficients of variation, and relationships among traits were explored using Pearson correlations. The results revealed broad phenotypic diversity among the individual varieties and also their genetic groups. Finally, phenotypes were associated with genotypes, and the most genetically determined traits were identified. Multi-year stability profiling supported the identification of candidate elite donor cultivars that combine favorable attributes for the fresh market and/or traits relevant to processing. These findings provide a practical pre-breeding shortlist and quantitative trait targets to support crossing design and selection under central European conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Fruit Tree Breeding, Pathogen Management and Chemical Profiling for Crop Improvement)

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14 pages, 10524 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Identification of the ZjWPR Gene Family in Chinese Jujube Provides Functional Insights into Its Response to Jujube Witches’ Broom

by Pan Li, Caihua Xing, Jiaqi Sun, Yunjie Wang, Kunyi Lv, Enshun Jiang, Shoule Wang, Zhongtang Wang, Changfeng Ai, Xueqing Yan, Xuan Zhao and Qiong Zhang

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2094; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132094 - 6 Jul 2026

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Abstract

WPR (WEB1/PMI2-related) genes play a crucial role in regulating chloroplast movement and leaf coloration in plants. Previous studies have shown that these genes are implicated in leaf yellowing, both in Arabidopsis thaliana and in Paulownia fortunei following infection with Paulownia witches’ [...] Read more.

WPR (WEB1/PMI2-related) genes play a crucial role in regulating chloroplast movement and leaf coloration in plants. Previous studies have shown that these genes are implicated in leaf yellowing, both in Arabidopsis thaliana and in Paulownia fortunei following infection with Paulownia witches’ broom. To investigate the functions of the ZjWPR genes in jujube, bioinformatics methods were employed to identify the ZjWPR gene family in jujube, analyze their protein physicochemical properties, gene structure, evolutionary relationships, and cis-acting elements in this study. The results revealed that the ZjWPR gene family in jujube comprised 10 members. Phylogenetic analysis showed that WPR genes were divided into two classes, with ZjWPR genes distributed across three subgroups within Class II. Conserved motif analysis indicated that motif 2, motif 3, motif 7, and motif 8 were the most highly conserved and most genes exhibited similar structures. Cis-element analysis in their promoter suggested that ZjWPR genes were regulated by multiple hormones and were associated with stress responses such as low temperature and drought. Moreover, all ZjWPR genes contained light-responsive elements. Expression analysis of the ZjWPR gene family under Jujube Witches’ Broom (JWB) stress showed that ZjWPR4 and ZjWPR5 were significantly up-regulated in JWB-susceptible jujube cultivars following phytoplasma infection, whereas no significant changes were detected in JWB-resistant cultivars. Additionally, the expression levels of ZjWPR2, ZjWPR3, and ZjWPR6 were also altered in response to infection, suggesting their potential involvement in the response to JWB stress and the associated leaf chlorosis process. Moreover, transient overexpression of ZjWPR4 and ZjWPR5 in sour jujube leaves led to significant reductions, in critical photosynthetic parameters, including Fv/Fm, Fq′/Fm′, and ETR compared with WT, thereby reinforcing their functional contribution to JWB-associated leaf yellowing. This study provides valuable insights for further functional characterization of the ZjWPR gene family in mediating JWB-induced leaf yellowing and related metabolic pathways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetics, Genomics and Biotechnology)

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19 pages, 3812 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Tomato Seed Performance Through Cold Atmospheric Plasma: Effects on Germination Rates and Early Biomass Development

by Adriana-Florica Bogoșel, Mihail Lungu, Oana-Alexandra Găinaru and Nicoleta Ianovici

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2093; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132093 - 6 Jul 2026

Viewed by 552

Abstract

Modern agriculture faces increasing pressure from rising food demand, resource degradation, and biotic stress factors, highlighting the need for sustainable, non-chemical technologies. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has emerged as a promising non-chemical seed-priming technology with potential applications in sustainable agriculture. The present study [...] Read more.

Modern agriculture faces increasing pressure from rising food demand, resource degradation, and biotic stress factors, highlighting the need for sustainable, non-chemical technologies. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has emerged as a promising non-chemical seed-priming technology with potential applications in sustainable agriculture. The present study investigated the effects of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD)-generated CAP on seed germination and early seedling development in two Solanum lycopersicum genotypes (a common variety and an IdB hybrid) under controlled laboratory conditions. Seeds were exposed to CAP for 1, 2, 3, or 4 min, while untreated seeds served as controls. Early plant performance was evaluated after 47 days by determining germination rate, fresh biomass, dry biomass, and mineral biomass (ash content). CAP exposure duration significantly affected all gravimetric parameters in both genotypes. Among the tested treatments, 1 min exposure consistently produced the highest fresh, dry, and mineral biomass values, whereas longer exposure times (3–4 min) generally reduced seedling growth, indicating the transition from beneficial physiological stimulation to stress-induced inhibition. Despite the more pronounced response observed in the IdB hybrid, the statistical analysis demonstrated that treatment duration, rather than genotype, was the principal factor influencing biomass accumulation. The present results indicate that short-duration CAP treatment represents an effective seed-priming strategy for improving early tomato seedling development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology and Metabolism)

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14 pages, 23968 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Genus Ephedra (Ephedraceae, Gnetales) in Tunisia: New Records with Taxonomic, Nomenclatural, and Conservation Updates

by Ridha El Mokni, Giulio Barone, Helmut Freitag and Gianniantonio Domina

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2092; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132092 - 5 Jul 2026

Viewed by 475

Abstract

This study provides a revision of the genus Ephedra (Ephedraceae) in Tunisia, including taxonomic, nomenclatural, and conservation updates. The genus is represented in Tunisia by four species: Ephedra altissima, E. alenda, E. fragilis, and E. nebrodensis. The [...] Read more.

This study provides a revision of the genus Ephedra (Ephedraceae) in Tunisia, including taxonomic, nomenclatural, and conservation updates. The genus is represented in Tunisia by four species: Ephedra altissima, E. alenda, E. fragilis, and E. nebrodensis. The first one includes the two varieties altissima and wettsteinii, while E. fragilis is subdivided into the varieties E. fragilis var. fragilis and E. fragilis var. aurea. E. alenda was so far usually considered to be a subspecies of E. alata but morphological arguments and geographical separation are in favor of species rank. E. fragilis subsp. fragilis var. aurea is recombined here from the recently described E. aurea, so far known from Sicily only but reported here for the first time from North Africa. Further studies might show that E. alata and E. procera also occur in Tunisia. Along with the nomenclatural clarification of the taxa formerly reported from Tunisia including the lectotypification of E. altissima, E. alenda, and E. fragilis, all occurrences of the species in the country were checked and listed. An identification key is also given and supported by pertinent photographs. Conservation concerns are highlighted, particularly for E. fragilis var. aurea, threatened by habitat destruction due to urbanization and fires, and for the extremely rare E. nebrodensis. In a subsequent manuscript, the authors plan to extend the taxonomic studies to the North African Ephedra species occurring only outside of Tunisia. Full article

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22 pages, 4636 KB

Open AccessArticle

Isolationand Identification of Antagonistic Bacteria Against Sporisorium scitamineum and Their Biocontrol Effect on Sugarcane Smut

by Wen-Shuo Yuan, Yong-Jia Li, Jia-Xin Li, Xiao-Hui Huang and Wan-Kuan Shen

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2091; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132091 - 5 Jul 2026

Viewed by 1085

Abstract

Sugarcane smut is a fungal disease caused by Sporisorium scitamineum. To explore its biological control strategies, this study collected rhizosphere soil of sugarcane, isolated and identified biocontrol bacteria from it, and conducted multi-level control efficacy evaluations. The results showed that five bacterial [...] Read more.

Sugarcane smut is a fungal disease caused by Sporisorium scitamineum. To explore its biological control strategies, this study collected rhizosphere soil of sugarcane, isolated and identified biocontrol bacteria from it, and conducted multi-level control efficacy evaluations. The results showed that five bacterial strains with effective antagonistic activity against the sexual mating and teliospore germination of S. scitamineum were isolated and identified: 2143-2 (Pseudomonas baetica), 2143-4 (Bacillus subtilis), 2143-6 (Burkholderia diffusa), Y8-2 (Pseudomonas reinekei), and Y8-3 (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens). The results of the pot inoculation experiments showed that all five strains could prolong the incubation period of sugarcane smut and significantly reduce the disease incidence, demonstrating marked control effects, with strains 2143-4 and Y8-2 being the most effective. The results of the field inoculation experiments and natural field infection experiments indicated that strain Y8-2 exhibited the best biocontrol efficacy against sugarcane smut, with control efficacies of 68.40% and 73.99% in the field inoculation experiments, and 65.73% under natural field infection conditions. In addition, the biocontrol strains could improve the physiological stress-tolerance characteristics of sugarcane plants, which was conducive to enhancing the resistance of sugarcane plants to sugarcane smut. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sugarcane Breeding and Biotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture)

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14 pages, 5398 KB

Open AccessArticle

Synergistic Effect of Brassinosteroid and Jasmine Extract on Promoting Rice Ratooning Ability

by Long Zhang, Qiang Cai, Yan Gan, Hang Yu, Shiyong Cui, Panyu Zhao, Shuxin Zhang, Kailing Xiao, Chenran Chen, Wenfang Lin, Wenxiong Lin, Wenfei Wang and Xuelian Yang

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2090; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132090 - 5 Jul 2026

Viewed by 394

Abstract

Ratoon rice cultivation is a significant practice for enhancing land productivity and food security. Ratooning ability is a key determinant of ratoon season crop (RC) yield and is influenced by genetic, agronomic, and hormonal factors. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of [...] Read more.

Ratoon rice cultivation is a significant practice for enhancing land productivity and food security. Ratooning ability is a key determinant of ratoon season crop (RC) yield and is influenced by genetic, agronomic, and hormonal factors. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of foliar-applied ratooning enhancers, formulated with plant hormones and botanical extracts, on the growth and regeneration of a japonica–indica hybrid rice cultivar, ‘Qingxiangyou 19 Xiang’. Treatments included gibberellin (GA), low, medium, and high concentrations of brassinosteroid (BR), each with or without jasmine extract (JE), alongside proline and zinc chloride (ZnCl₂) as supporting components. These solutions were applied twice at 5 and 15 days after flowering (DAF) of the main crop (MC). The results showed that GA treatment increased plant height and panicle length but reduced MC tiller number. BR treatments did not affect plant height but significantly increased the 1000-grain weight. Crucially, while BR alone had no significant effect on ratooning ability, the BR-JE combined application, particularly at medium (MBR-JE) and high (HBR-JE) concentrations, significantly increased ratoon tiller number and enhanced ratooning ability. However, the HBR-JE combination increased grain chalkiness. In conclusion, the foliar application of BR combined with JE during the flowering stage effectively promotes ratooning ability without compromising MC yield, offering a promising agronomic strategy for sustainable ratoon rice production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rice Physiology, Genetics and Breeding)

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17 pages, 1755 KB

Open AccessArticle

Biomass Allocation and Allometric Relationships Among Major Plant Formations in the Alpine Peat Swamp Wetlands of the Yellow River on the Gannon Plateau, Gansu Province, China

by Man-Ping Kang and Cheng-Zhang Zhao

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2089; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132089 - 5 Jul 2026

Viewed by 317

Abstract

Biomass allocation patterns affect plant functions across all levels, ranging from plant growth and reproduction to the quality and energy flow of entire communities. Revealing the biomass allocation and allometric growth relationships among the dominant plant formations in alpine peat swamp wetlands not [...] Read more.

Biomass allocation patterns affect plant functions across all levels, ranging from plant growth and reproduction to the quality and energy flow of entire communities. Revealing the biomass allocation and allometric growth relationships among the dominant plant formations in alpine peat swamp wetlands not only can help elucidate the life history strategies of swamp plants, but also plays a crucial role in understanding the uncertainty of plant carbon sinks in peat swamp wetlands. Based on community surveys, this study employed analysis of variance (ANOVA) and standardized major axis estimation (SMA) to analyze the species composition, biomass allocation of different organs, and allometric growth relationships of the dominant plant formation in the alpine peat swamp wetlands of the Yellow River on the Gannon Plateau, Gansu Province, China. The results showed the following: (1) Peat swamp plants can be classified into six formations dominated by Carex muliensis, Blysmus sinocompressus, Carex atrofusca, Kobresia tibetica, Kobresia kansuensis, and Carex kansuensis. Environmental filtering was identified as the primary factor influencing the distribution of formations in this region. (2) The biomass allocation ratios of the dominant plant formations were ordered as follows: root mass ratio > leaf mass ratio > stem mass ratio. There were also significant differences in the biomass allocation of roots, stems, and leaves among different plant formations. (3) Isometric growth was observed between the leaf and stem biomass of the dominant plant formations (p > 0.05), while allometric growth relationships existed between root/leaf biomass and root/stem biomass (p < 0.05), with the growth rate of root biomass (RB) being higher than that of leaf biomass (LB) and stem biomass (SB). The biomass allocation patterns and allometric growth relationships among the roots, stems, and leaves of the dominant plant formations in peat swamp wetlands reflect the environmental plasticity mechanism of functional plant traits in heterogeneous habitats. Moreover, combining optimal allocation theory and allometric growth theory can better explain the biomass variation and adaptation mechanisms of dominant plant formations in peat swamp wetlands, providing a theoretical basis for understanding the habitat adaptation patterns of plants in alpine peat swamp wetlands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Traits of Wetland Plants)

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34 pages, 3345 KB

Open AccessReview

Genetic Advances in Cannabis sativa L.: A Review of Recent Progress and Future Directions

by Kasuni C. Daundasekara, Kalpani P. Thennakoon, Jivendra S. Wickramasinghe, Selamawit Woldesenbet, Christopher Delhom, Suman Chandra and Aruna D. Weerasooriya

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2088; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132088 - 4 Jul 2026

Viewed by 1520

Abstract

Cannabis sativa L. is an economically significant multi-use crop valued for fiber, seed, and phytochemical production. Compared with other crops, advancement in Cannabis sativa has been slow due to regulatory constraints and genetic resource limitations. Recent advances in technology have transformed the research [...] Read more.

Cannabis sativa L. is an economically significant multi-use crop valued for fiber, seed, and phytochemical production. Compared with other crops, advancement in Cannabis sativa has been slow due to regulatory constraints and genetic resource limitations. Recent advances in technology have transformed the research landscape, supporting a deeper understanding of the genetic architecture underlying key agronomic traits. This review summarizes current progress in Cannabis sativa genetics and genomics, mainly focusing on structural genome organization, including chromosome-level assemblies and emerging pangenomic resources that capture species-wide diversity. We explore the molecular basis of key agronomic traits, including sex determination, cannabinoid biosynthesis, fiber quality, seed composition, disease resistance, and abiotic stress tolerance, highlighting their complex regulatory networks. Functional genomics tools including virus-induced gene silencing, transient expression systems, and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing are reviewed as approaches enabling direct gene functional validation. We further review integration of these resources with molecular breeding strategies, including marker-assisted and genomic selection, to accelerate elite genotype development. Finally, we address persistent challenges such as genomic complexity, reference bias, and phenotyping limitations while outlining future research directions. Together, these advances position C. sativa as a compelling system for both fundamental plant biology and applied crop improvement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medicinal Cannabis: Phytochemistry and Biotechnological Advances)

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28 pages, 24585 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Biogas Slurry, Biochar, and Mineral Fertilizer Co-Application on Net Ecosystem Carbon Balance and Ecosystem Service Value in Greenhouse Farmland

by Qinglin Sa, Jian Zheng, Yan Wang, Xuqin Fu, Shikun Sun and Yongde Gan

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2087; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132087 - 4 Jul 2026

Viewed by 424

Abstract

In intensive greenhouse agriculture, irrational fertilization practices can exacerbate carbon emissions and impair ecosystem service functions. To address this issue, biogas slurry and biochar were introduced as waste-derived substitutes for mineral fertilizer, and the effects of different fertilization strategies on the net ecosystem [...] Read more.

In intensive greenhouse agriculture, irrational fertilization practices can exacerbate carbon emissions and impair ecosystem service functions. To address this issue, biogas slurry and biochar were introduced as waste-derived substitutes for mineral fertilizer, and the effects of different fertilization strategies on the net ecosystem carbon balance (N_ECB) and ecosystem service value (ESV) of greenhouse tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) production systems over two growing seasons (spring–summer and autumn–winter) were systematically evaluated. When economic return was prioritized, the treatment with 25% biogas slurry substituting for mineral fertilizer (BS25) performed best, with ESVs of 641,606.83 and 629,987.37 CNY ha⁻¹ in the spring–summer and autumn–winter seasons, respectively; the treatment with 50% biogas slurry substitution (BS50) ranked second, and both treatments were significantly superior to the others (p < 0.05). When the objective was to enhance carbon sink capacity while maintaining high yield, the treatment with 75% biogas slurry combined with biochar substituting for mineral fertilizer (BS75 + C) showed the best overall performance, with N_ECB values of 6.30 and 6.34 t ha⁻¹ in the two respective seasons, while also demonstrating clear advantages in soil organic matter accumulation and atmospheric regulation. Based on the VIKOR model with AHP-CRITIC combined weighting, BS75 + C was identified as the optimal option. However, the most suitable fertilization strategy depends on management objectives: BS25 is recommended when maximizing short-term economic return is the primary goal, whereas BS75 + C is preferable for enhancing carbon sink capacity and ecological benefits. Considering both ecosystem service value and comprehensive performance, BS50 and BS75 + C are recommended as sustainable fertilization strategies for greenhouse tomato production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water and Fertilizer Management in Crop Production)

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22 pages, 12753 KB

Open AccessArticle

Compact Retention and Lineage-Specific Sequence Divergence of ALMT Genes in Acidophilic Vaccinium

by Bin Li, Wenhan Cheng, Xianyang Zhao, Rui Chen and Ruiyi Fan

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2086; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132086 - 4 Jul 2026

Viewed by 345

Abstract

Aluminum-activated malate transporter (ALMT) channels mediate root malate efflux, a key response for plant survival in acidic, aluminum-toxic soils. The acidophilic genus Vaccinium is horticulturally important, yet its ALMT family has remained uncharacterized. Leveraging two newly available chromosome-level genomes (Vaccinium darrowii and [...] Read more.

Aluminum-activated malate transporter (ALMT) channels mediate root malate efflux, a key response for plant survival in acidic, aluminum-toxic soils. The acidophilic genus Vaccinium is horticulturally important, yet its ALMT family has remained uncharacterized. Leveraging two newly available chromosome-level genomes (Vaccinium darrowii and Vaccinium duclouxii), we present the first genus-wide characterization of this family. Across 11 angiosperms we identified 145 non-redundant ALMT loci, partitioned into six major subfamilies. MCScanX synteny revealed compact retention rather than expansion: diploid Vaccinium genomes encode only 8–10 ALMTs each, with at most one intra-species syntenic paralog pair, versus multiple whole-genome-duplication-derived pairs in apple (Malus domestica, 24 loci). Pairwise Ka/Ks was elevated within Vaccinium in three subfamilies, and codon-based PAML branch-site tests detected Bonferroni-significant positive selection on terminal Vaccinium branches in Subfamilies 5 and 4 (2ΔlnL = 40.65 and 12.95), yielding three Bayes Empirical Bayes candidate sites in Subfamily 5 (F249, E410, L411) and two in Subfamily 4 (E249, G399); Subfamily 2 was non-significant and is interpreted as relaxed constraint. All candidate residues map to C-terminal cytoplasmic regulatory regions rather than the transmembrane pore. These findings indicate that the compact Vaccinium ALMT repertoire retained its ancestral channel architecture while accumulating lineage-associated divergence in cytoplasmic regulatory regions; the identified residues are candidates for downstream functional validation rather than demonstrated drivers of acid-soil adaptation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Molecular Biology)

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21 pages, 2635 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ascorbic Acid Seed Priming Enhances Yield and Related Responses in Broccoli Under Water Deficit Stress

by Vijaya R. Mohan, Lord Abbey, Andrew M. Hammermeister and Mason T. MacDonald

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2085; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132085 - 4 Jul 2026

Viewed by 593

Abstract

Drought stress significantly constrains broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.) productivity by impairing growth, photosynthesis, and yield. Seed priming with ascorbic acid (AsA) has shown promise in enhancing early seedling performance; however, its effects on head development and yield under water deficit remain limited. [...] Read more.

Drought stress significantly constrains broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.) productivity by impairing growth, photosynthesis, and yield. Seed priming with ascorbic acid (AsA) has shown promise in enhancing early seedling performance; however, its effects on head development and yield under water deficit remain limited. This greenhouse pot experiment evaluated four seed treatments: non-primed control, water-primed control, 1 mg L⁻¹ AsA, and 10 mg L⁻¹ AsA under two irrigation regimes: 100% and 50% field capacity. Growth, physiological traits, biochemical responses, and yield were assessed. AsA priming significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced plant height, net photosynthesis, and chlorophyll content under both water regimes. Under 100% FC, water priming significantly increased canopy length, whereas under 50% FC, only AsA priming produced a significant increase relative to the non-primed control (p < 0.05). Biochemical responses further showed that 10 mg L⁻¹ AsA significantly (p < 0.05) increased chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b under 50% FC compared with the non-primed control. Proline accumulation was reduced by 10 mg L⁻¹ AsA, but this reduction was significant (p < 0.05) only under 100% FC. Under 100% FC, 10 mg L⁻¹ AsA significantly (p < 0.05) increased total phenolic content compared with the non-primed control. Total flavonoid content was significantly (p < 0.05) increased by 1 and 10 mg L⁻¹ AsA compared with the control, while both water priming and AsA priming significantly (p < 0.05) increased carotenoid content and reduced H₂O₂ accumulation relative to the non-primed control, irrespective of watering regime. Total yield per plant, measured on a fresh weight basis, significantly (p < 0.05) increased with increasing AsA concentration, with 10 mg L⁻¹ AsA enhancing yield by 37.8% relative to the water-primed control and by 70.5% relative to the non-primed control, independent of water regime. Percentage dry weight was unaffected by AsA treatment. Overall, AsA seed priming potentially enhanced physiological resilience and fresh yield of broccoli under water-limited conditions, indicating its potential as a low-cost strategy for drought mitigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biostimulant Use on Horticultural Crops—Second Edition)

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12 pages, 26678 KB

Open AccessArticle

Secretory Cavity Development and Epidermal Exudation Pathways in Fruits of Ruta graveolens L. (Rutaceae)

by Silvia Rodrigues Machado, Aline Rodrigues de Almeida, Karla Bianca de Deus Bento, Sabrina Lemes Dias and Tatiane Maria Rodrigues

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2084; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132084 - 3 Jul 2026

Viewed by 1053

Abstract

Ruta graveolens L. fruits are densely covered with translucent dots corresponding to secretory cavities that accumulate bioactive metabolites, primarily essential oils. Immature fruits present an aromatic surface exudate, indicating the active release of secretory products despite the internal location of the cavities. This [...] Read more.

Ruta graveolens L. fruits are densely covered with translucent dots corresponding to secretory cavities that accumulate bioactive metabolites, primarily essential oils. Immature fruits present an aromatic surface exudate, indicating the active release of secretory products despite the internal location of the cavities. This study investigated the origin, development, ultrastructure, and secretion-release mechanisms of fruit secretory cavities using light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy. Secretory cavities originated from clusters of ground meristem cells associated with phloem strands. Lumen formation began with the collapse of central cells, while surrounding cells differentiated into a metabolically active secretory epithelium rich in polymorphic plastids, smooth endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, vesicles, and lipid bodies. Mature cavities consisted of a multilayered epithelium surrounding a large lumen and enclosed by a parenchymatous sheath. Progressive lysis of inner epithelial cells contributed to lumen expansion and secretion accumulation. As cavities enlarged, they became positioned immediately beneath the epidermis, whose cells became compressed and flattened. Secretion was released through the rupture of glandular and epidermal cells and through stomata located in epicarp depressions. Ultrastructural evidence indicates the combined operation of eccrine, granulocrine, and holocrine secretion mechanisms. Pectin–cellulosic wall thickenings likely function as apoplastic barriers, directing secretion toward the lumen and protecting adjacent tissues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Development and Morphogenesis)

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18 pages, 4185 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Yield Stability and Gross Revenue: Multi-Year Evaluation of Coffea canephora Genotypes

by Alana Mara Kolln, Rafael Nunes de Almeida, Rodrigo Barros Rocha, Fábio Luiz Partelli, Alexsandro Lara Teixeira, Larissa Fatarelli Bento de Araújo and Marcelo Curitiba Espindula

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2083; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132083 - 3 Jul 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 474

Abstract

Agricultural research helps us to reduce the risks associated with climate variability, pests and diseases, market fluctuations, and biennial bearing. However, genotype characterization is often conducted independently of economic performance and yield stability, limiting the identification of genotypes that combine high yield, stability, [...] Read more.

Agricultural research helps us to reduce the risks associated with climate variability, pests and diseases, market fluctuations, and biennial bearing. However, genotype characterization is often conducted independently of economic performance and yield stability, limiting the identification of genotypes that combine high yield, stability, and economic return potential. This study characterized the genotype × harvest season interaction and gross revenue of Coffea canephora clones evaluated in Rondônia, Brazil, over five harvest seasons (2021–2025). Twenty-eight genotypes were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with four replications and five plants per plot, and yield stability was assessed using the centroid method. Cumulative yield over five harvest seasons totaled 306.22 bags ha⁻¹, with a mean of 61.24 bags ha⁻¹ per harvest season. The genotype × harvest season interaction revealed distinct temporal yield patterns. Genotypes closest to the ideotype of maximum yield and stability included BAG19, BRS1216, GJ8, GJ25, AS2, and BAG24. Gross revenue simulations based on contrasting historical coffee price scenarios indicated the economic superiority of these clones. Differences in yield potential contributed more to gross revenue variation than biennial bearing. Relative to the overall mean of the 28 genotypes, these clones achieved an 85% increase in mean yield and a 61.2% increase in mean gross revenue. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management, Development, and Breeding of Coffea sp. Crop)

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29 pages, 36050 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ecological Microenvironment Response of Rhizosphere Soil Microbial Communities to Varying Soil Amendments: Insights from Diversity, Stability, and Multi-Functionality

by Yulin Zhang, Junxia Li, Na Qin, Yi Du, Waqar Islam, Sajad Ali, Shutao Dai, Pengyue Li, Cancan Zhu, Chengyang Zhang, Senjie Fu, Ya Jing, Jincang Li and Chunyi Wang

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2082; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132082 - 3 Jul 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 324

Abstract

Continuous cropping obstacles (CCOs) severely disrupt the soil physical structure, nutrient cycling, and microbial community balance, leading to decreased crop productivity. However, the effects of soil amendment interventions on bacterial, fungal, and archaeal communities in foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauvois.) [...] Read more.

Continuous cropping obstacles (CCOs) severely disrupt the soil physical structure, nutrient cycling, and microbial community balance, leading to decreased crop productivity. However, the effects of soil amendment interventions on bacterial, fungal, and archaeal communities in foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauvois.) systems are not well comprehended. Selected physical, chemical, biological soil amendment and crop rotations were evaluated for their effects on rhizosphere soil microbial diversity, composition, network characteristics, community assembly processes, niche breadth, and multi-functionality. High-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA and ITS regions demonstrated that earthworm castings significantly enhanced archaeal Chao1, Shannon diversity, and multi-functionality. Meanwhile, Bacillus mucilaginosus enhanced fungal diversity, and B. subtilis promoted bacterial network complexity. In continuous cropping soil alone, microbial communities exhibited low diversity and were predominantly governed by ecological drift. In contrast, soil amendment treatments shifted assembly toward deterministic processes, including homogeneous and heterogeneous selection. However, the analysis demonstrated greater complexity and niche width in bacterial communities than in fungal or archaeal communities, with keystone modules driven by Actinomycetota, Ascomycota, and Halobacteriota. Structural equation modeling indicated that soil physicochemical properties directly mediated rhizosphere soil microbial alpha diversity, which in turn positively influenced multi-functionality. Overall, organic amendments and microbial inoculants were associated with increases in microbial diversity, network stability, and functionality in this pot experiment, suggesting that such practices may help mitigate CCOs and sustainably improve foxtail millet productivity in dryland agricultural systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant–Microbe Interactions Under Stress: Exploring Defence Mechanisms, Microbial Diversity, and Resilience)

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16 pages, 11561 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Effects of Aquatic Conditions on Trap Structure in the Submerged Form of Drosera intermedia Hayne

by Izabela Kozak, Krzysztof Banaś and Bartosz J. Płachno

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2081; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132081 - 3 Jul 2026

Viewed by 614

Abstract

Carnivorous plants possess highly specialized trap structures that enable the acquisition of nutrients from captured animals. This study investigated whether the aquatic environment influences the architecture of glandular emergences (tentacles) in the submerged form of Drosera intermedia. Morphometric analyses were performed on [...] Read more.

Carnivorous plants possess highly specialized trap structures that enable the acquisition of nutrients from captured animals. This study investigated whether the aquatic environment influences the architecture of glandular emergences (tentacles) in the submerged form of Drosera intermedia. Morphometric analyses were performed on tentacles from plants growing in sandy terrestrial habitats, emergent wetland habitats, and submerged aquatic habitats. Significant differences in tentacle morphology were detected among habitat types. Emergent plants generally developed the largest tentacles and tentacle heads, whereas submerged plants exhibited shorter marginal tentacles and smaller glandular heads. In contrast, the shape of both marginal and central tentacle heads remained relatively stable across habitats, indicating stronger developmental conservation of this trait. Nevertheless, the submerged form differed significantly in the morphology of central tentacle heads. These results demonstrate that aquatic conditions substantially modify the structure of carnivorous emergences, revealing pronounced phenotypic plasticity in the carnivorous syndrome of D. intermedia. The reduction in tentacle size under submerged conditions may reflect altered functional demands associated with prey capture, changes in mucilage effectiveness, and the mechanical constraints imposed by the aquatic environment. However, differences in light availability, nutrient status, and other habitat characteristics may also contribute to the observed patterns. At the same time, the persistence of glandular structures indicates the retention of the carnivorous apparatus despite prolonged submergence. This study highlights the remarkable developmental flexibility of D. intermedia and provides new evidence that trap morphology in carnivorous plants may be highly responsive to environmental conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conservation, Ecology and Management of Rare and Endangered Plant Species)

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30 pages, 1224 KB

Open AccessReview

AI-Guided DNA-Free and Genotype-Independent Genome Editing for Soybean Improvement

by Hye Jeong Kim, Jia Chae, Seong Ju Han, Jee Hye Kim, Young-Soo Chung, Sivabalan Karthik and Jae Bok Heo

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2080; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132080 - 3 Jul 2026

Viewed by 651

Abstract

Soybean is a strategic crop for global protein and vegetable oil supply chains; however, genetic improvement remains constrained by genotype-dependent regeneration, variable transformation efficiency, and regulatory concerns regarding stable transgene integration. This review synthesizes emerging DNA-free and genotype-independent genome-editing frameworks for soybean, where [...] Read more.

Soybean is a strategic crop for global protein and vegetable oil supply chains; however, genetic improvement remains constrained by genotype-dependent regeneration, variable transformation efficiency, and regulatory concerns regarding stable transgene integration. This review synthesizes emerging DNA-free and genotype-independent genome-editing frameworks for soybean, where genotype independence is defined as the ability to recover fertile, non-chimeric edited plants across elite germplasm. We critically examine the soybean genome-editing toolbox, including CRISPR-Cas9, Cas12a, multiplex editing systems, base editing, and prime editing, and discuss persistent bottlenecks associated with target selection, off-target assessment, editability, and plant recovery. Particular emphasis is placed on artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted approaches that integrate genomic, epigenomic, chromatin-accessibility, and multi-omics datasets to improve target prioritization, guide RNA design, off-target prediction, and locus- and genotype-specific editability assessment. We further evaluate DNA-free genome-editing technologies, including CRISPR-Cas ribonucleoproteins, transient RNA-based systems, and nanocarrier-mediated delivery platforms, highlighting their potential to generate non-integrative edits while reducing prolonged nuclease exposure. In addition, we discuss regeneration reprogramming strategies based on developmental regulators and morphogenic modules, including BBM-WUS, GRF-GIF, de novo meristem induction, and somatic embryogenesis, as enabling technologies for overcoming cultivar-dependent regeneration barriers. Importantly, this review proposes an integrated AI-to-field framework that connects target discovery, editability prediction, DNA-free editing, regeneration reprogramming, phenotypic validation, and breeding deployment into a unified soybean improvement pipeline. We further highlight emerging opportunities in multi-omics-guided target discovery, genotype-aware prediction models, regeneration-aware editing strategies, and closed-loop machine-learning systems that continuously improve editing decisions through experimental feedback. Collectively, these convergent innovations provide a practical foundation for accelerating the development of climate-resilient, nutritionally enhanced, and industry-ready soybean cultivars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Transformation and Genome Editing—2nd Edition)

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22 pages, 2838 KB

Open AccessArticle

Nutritional and Phytochemical Characterization of Commercially Available Chia, Quinoa, Pumpkin Seed, Flaxseed and Triticale Products

by Eleni Giotaki, Valentina Perri, Nicholas J. Vaughan, Gary J. Duncan, Donna Henderson, Gary A. Cameron, Louise Cantlay, Jodie Park, Nicosha De Souza, Vassilios Raikos, Wendy R. Russell and Madalina Neacsu

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2079; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132079 - 3 Jul 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 479

Abstract

Limited data exists on the combined nutritional and phytochemical profiles of UK commercially available plant-based foods, limiting comprehensive compositional data available for dietary assessment and food formulation. This study addresses this gap by providing thorough compositional analysis of quinoa (red, black, organic), chia [...] Read more.

Limited data exists on the combined nutritional and phytochemical profiles of UK commercially available plant-based foods, limiting comprehensive compositional data available for dietary assessment and food formulation. This study addresses this gap by providing thorough compositional analysis of quinoa (red, black, organic), chia seeds (organic, white), pumpkin seeds (conventional, organic), flaxseeds (brown, golden, organic), and triticale grain (organic, cereal meal, rolled), profiling macronutrients, dietary fiber, amino acids, fatty acids, essential minerals, and bioactive phytochemicals. Pumpkin seeds exhibited the highest protein (29–36%) and fat (42–46%) contents, markedly exceeding quinoa and triticale, highlighting their role as a plant-based protein and energy source. Flaxseeds and chia seeds provided the greatest dietary fiber (15 g/100 g), while mineral analysis identified pumpkin seeds as particularly rich in phosphorus and magnesium, and white chia seeds as a rich source of calcium and iron. Targeted LC-MS/MS and HPLC screening (171 molecules) revealed substantial variation in phytochemical composition among products with red quinoa, golden flaxseed, and white chia seed containing the highest concentrations of quantified phytochemicals (up to 97.2 mg/100 g). These findings provide integrated data on the nutrient and phytochemical composition of selected commercially available products, reinforcing the practical importance of crop diversity for enhancing dietary nutrient and phytochemical diversity and informing future research, food innovation, and dietary assessment initiatives involving plant-based foods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Exploring Nutritional, Antioxidant and Functional Potential of Plant-Based Food and Plant Bioactive Compounds in Human Health)

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15 pages, 2020 KB

Open AccessArticle

Establishment of a High-Frequency Plant Regeneration Protocol for the Multipurpose Handroanthus chrysanthus

by Huiting Fang, Bin Chen, Junjie Zhang, Jiwen Zha, Xinwen Xu, Yutong Liu, Changcao Peng and Xiaolan Zhao

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2078; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132078 - 3 Jul 2026

Viewed by 270

Abstract

Handroanthus chrysanthus (Jacq.) S.O. Grose is a Neotropical tree species highly valued for its ornamental beauty, durable timber, and medicinal properties. However, overexploitation and the recalcitrant nature of its seeds have constrained propagation and conservation efforts, and the species has been listed as [...] Read more.

Handroanthus chrysanthus (Jacq.) S.O. Grose is a Neotropical tree species highly valued for its ornamental beauty, durable timber, and medicinal properties. However, overexploitation and the recalcitrant nature of its seeds have constrained propagation and conservation efforts, and the species has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 2020. In this study, a direct adventitious shoot regeneration system was developed for H. chrysanthus by systematically evaluating explant type, basal medium, plant growth regulator combination, and light quality. Hypocotyls were identified as the most responsive explants for shoot induction, and the highest adventitious shoot induction frequency, 51.79%, was obtained on Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) supplemented with 5 mg·L⁻¹ 6-benzylaminopurine, 0.5 mg·L⁻¹ indole-3-butyric acid, and 0.2 mg·L⁻¹ thidiazuron under white fluorescent light. The highest shoot multiplication coefficient, 3.27, was obtained on MS medium containing 4 mg·L⁻¹ 6-benzylaminopurine and 0.3 mg·L⁻¹ gibberellic acid. The maximum rooting frequency, 80%, was obtained on R14 medium after 30 days of culture. After acclimatization, 95% of the regenerated plantlets survived and grew vigorously under greenhouse conditions. To our knowledge, no direct adventitious shoot regeneration system has been reported for the Tabebuia alliance. This efficient regeneration protocol provides a practical platform for clonal propagation, germplasm conservation, and genetic improvement of H. chrysanthus and may also support regeneration and conservation in related endangered taxa within the Tabebuia alliance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural Science and Ornamental Plants)

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26 pages, 9175 KB

Open AccessArticle

RT-DETR-DCEA: A Lightweight Citrus Defective Fruit Detection Algorithm for Complex Orchard Environments

by Jihui Qiao, Yuchen Sun, Binyuan Zhong, Lun Wang, Siyu Li, Hang Liu, Youqing Chen and Tong Li

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2077; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132077 - 3 Jul 2026

Viewed by 308

Abstract

Given the issues in natural orchard environments, such as large-scale variations of defective citrus fruits, weak texture boundaries, strong illumination changes, branch and leaf occlusion, and significant background interference, this paper constructs a lightweight detection model, RT-DETR-DCEA, based on RT-DETR-R18. This model is [...] Read more.

Given the issues in natural orchard environments, such as large-scale variations of defective citrus fruits, weak texture boundaries, strong illumination changes, branch and leaf occlusion, and significant background interference, this paper constructs a lightweight detection model, RT-DETR-DCEA, based on RT-DETR-R18. This model is improved through four aspects: “fine-grained defective feature extraction—multi-scale feature fusion—up-sampling detail recovery—global feature interaction for noise suppression”. First, a Dynamic Hybrid Convolution Module (DIMB) is introduced into the backbone network, drawing on the ideas of Inception-style multi-branch depthwise convolution and MetaFormer residual mixing. It extracts local textures of various forms through square convolution, horizontal strip convolution, and vertical strip convolution, and utilizes dynamic branch weights to enhance the model’s adaptability to irregular defects such as lesions, mildew, and external damage. Second, a Content-Guided Attention Feature Fusion Network (CGAFN) is designed in the neck network, which achieves adaptive fusion of low-level detail features and high-level semantic features through channel attention, spatial attention, and pixel-level fusion weights. Next, a lightweight upsampling enhancement module called EUCB-SC is constructed, which introduces channel rearrangement and Shift spatial offset into the efficient upsampling convolutional structure to enhance the local spatial interaction capability of upsampled features with low parameter overhead. Finally, adaptive sparse self-attention is introduced into the AIFI module to form AIFI-ASSA, which suppresses irrelevant background interactions through a sparse attention branch and retains necessary contextual information through a dense attention branch. The experimental results demonstrate that on a dataset containing four categories of citrus images—healthy, diseased, moldy, and severely externally damaged—RT-DETR-DCEA achieves 92.1% Precision, 86.1% Recall, and 91.8% mAP@50, with a parameter count of 1.477 × 10⁷ and an inference speed of 81 FPS. Compared with the original RT-DETR-R18 and various YOLO series models, this method strikes a favorable balance among detection accuracy, recall capability, and model lightweightness. This paper also discusses limitations such as data scale, ratio of private data, single training result, and insufficient validation on edge devices, providing a basis for subsequent cross-regional data validation and real-world deployment testing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI-Driven Machine Vision Technologies in Plant Science)

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13 pages, 1470 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Mapping of the TtGL-2A Long-Grain Locus in Tetraploid Wheat

by Jingjing Zuo, Tingting Kang, Xin Bai, Min Wang, Dan Tan, Xin Li, Linyi Qiao and Guiyun Yan

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2076; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132076 - 3 Jul 2026

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Abstract

Tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum), the progenitor of common wheat, provides rich genetic resources for wheat genetic improvement. TDI-1 is a long-grain cultivated emmer wheat (T. turgidum ssp. dicoccum) accession collected in our laboratory. It was crossed with TDU-1, a [...] Read more.

Tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum), the progenitor of common wheat, provides rich genetic resources for wheat genetic improvement. TDI-1 is a long-grain cultivated emmer wheat (T. turgidum ssp. dicoccum) accession collected in our laboratory. It was crossed with TDU-1, a short-grain durum wheat (T. turgidum ssp. durum) accession. The F₁ hybrids exhibited heterobeltiosis (i.e., performance superior to the better parent) for grain length, thousand-kernel weight, and other kernel traits. In the F₂ population, grain length showed a strong positive correlation with thousand-kernel weight (r = 0.77), and the ratio of plants with the short-grain parental phenotype, heterobeltiosis phenotype, and long-grain parental phenotype was approximately 1:2:1 (χ² ≈ 0.697, p > 0.7), suggesting that a major locus plays a primary role in controlling grain length in this population. Combined with phenotyping of F_2:3 families, homozygous long-grain and short-grain bulks constructed from F₂ individuals were genotyped using bulked segregant analysis based on 120K-SNP array. The results showed that polymorphic SNPs were mainly concentrated on the short arm of chromosome 2A, leading to the inference that this region harbors a locus regulating grain length, tentatively designated TtGL-2A. Twelve SSR markers were developed on the short arm of chromosome 2A, mapping TtGL-2A to an 8.1 cM genetic interval between markers 2AS-280t26 and 2AS-280t29, corresponding to the physical interval 121.2–158.8 Mb, with a LOD score of 12.3. Using the diagnostic marker 2AS-95t3 to genotype 253 wheat accessions, the proportion of long-grain allelic variation TtGL-2A_TDI in landraces, cultivars, and introduced lines is 40.27%, 75.86%, and 82.35%, respectively. Transcriptome sequencing of grains at 15 days post-anthesis from the parental lines TDI-1 and TDU-1 identified 11 differentially expressed genes within the TtGL-2A interval. These results lay a foundation for map-based cloning of TtGL-2A and provide an efficient marker for molecular breeding of wheat yield. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetics, Genomics and Biotechnology)

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20 pages, 4689 KB

Open AccessArticle

Seed Coat Impermeability and Physical Dormancy in Amazonian Mimosa L. Species: Anatomical, Ecophysiological, and Germination Insights

by Maricélia Moreira dos Santos, Anderson Gustavo do Nascimento Martins, Vitor Fransuá Guedes de Sousa, José Victor Torres Alves Costa and Breno Marques da Silva e Silva

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2075; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132075 - 3 Jul 2026

Viewed by 452

Abstract

Plants have developed several dormancy mechanisms essential for resilience in adverse environments. Understanding these mechanisms allows for the development of weed control strategies and enhances seedling production. This study aimed to investigate the anatomical and ecophysiological mechanisms associated with seed coat impermeability and [...] Read more.

Plants have developed several dormancy mechanisms essential for resilience in adverse environments. Understanding these mechanisms allows for the development of weed control strategies and enhances seedling production. This study aimed to investigate the anatomical and ecophysiological mechanisms associated with seed coat impermeability and physical dormancy in Mimosa camporum Benth. and other Amazonian Mimosa L. species, emphasizing their effects on water uptake, germination behavior, and ecological adaptation. For M. camporum, the imbibition curve, seed coat anatomy through scanning electron microscopy, and germination tests of seeds subjected to chemical scarification (H₂SO₄) were determined. Data from 25 Amazonian Mimosa species were compiled for ecological and physiological characterization, with subsequent Multiple Correspondence Analysis. Immersion in H₂SO₄ for 5 min is adequate to break dormancy in Mimosa camporum Benth. seeds. In Mimosa camporum Benth., sulfuric acid scarification effectively promoted water uptake and germination, demonstrating the close relationship between seed anatomy, imbibition behavior, and dormancy regulation. Physical dormancy in Amazonian Mimosa L. species is directly associated with seed coat impermeability, especially the presence of macrosclereids in the palisade layer. In the Amazon, the reproductive success and resilience of Mimosa L. species are related to the physical dormancy and desiccation tolerance of their seeds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sexual and Asexual Reproduction in Forest Plants—2nd Edition)

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22 pages, 5544 KB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Characterization of GbERF13 Reveals Its Role in ABA-Responsive Fiber Development and Molecular Marker Development in Sea Island Cotton

by Jin Chen, Jinxuan Chen, Qingqing Yan, Min Gao, Qin Chen, Tao Lv, Quanjia Chen and Kai Zheng

Plants 2026, 15(13), 2074; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132074 - 3 Jul 2026

Viewed by 510

Abstract

Sea Island cotton (Gossypium barbadense L.) is a premium raw material for high-end textiles due to its excellent fiber quality. The AP2/ERF transcription factor family plays critical roles in plant growth and hormone signaling. Here, 161 GbERF family members were identified in [...] Read more.

Sea Island cotton (Gossypium barbadense L.) is a premium raw material for high-end textiles due to its excellent fiber quality. The AP2/ERF transcription factor family plays critical roles in plant growth and hormone signaling. Here, 161 GbERF family members were identified in Sea Island cotton and classified into nine subgroups, with GbERF13 belonging to Group V. Expression analysis revealed that GbERF13 was specifically and highly expressed in fibers, with transcript abundance peaking at 15–30 days post-anthesis (DPA), coinciding with the transition from fiber elongation to secondary wall thickening. Exogenous abscisic acid (ABA) treatment significantly induced GbERF13 expression and inhibited fiber elongation. Heterologous overexpression of GbERF13 in Arabidopsis increased trichome and root hair numbers while suppressing primary root growth, confirming its role in cell elongation and development. A nonsynonymous SNP (A/C) at the 117th base pair of the GbERF13 coding region (GbERF13-117SNP) was identified in 213 Sea Island cotton accessions. Association analysis showed the C allele was significantly and positively associated with fiber length, strength, and uniformity. An allele-specific PCR marker was further developed for molecular breeding. Collectively, GbERF13 acts as a key ABA-responsive transcription factor regulating fiber development, and its functional SNP marker provides a valuable tool for improving Sea Island cotton fiber quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Molecular Biology)

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