Agronomy

28 pages, 6621 KB

Open AccessArticle

Metabolomic Analysis of Drought Response in Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.) Seeds

by Roman K. Puzanskiy, Daria A. Romanyuk, Evgeny A. Zorin, Margarita A. Vishnyakova and Vladimir A. Zhukov

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2778; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122778 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.) is a legume crop valued for the gum (carbohydrate galactomannan) found in its seeds, which is widely used in the oil and mining industries. In this study, we assessed changes in seed metabolite content caused by drought [...] Read more.

Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.) is a legume crop valued for the gum (carbohydrate galactomannan) found in its seeds, which is widely used in the oil and mining industries. In this study, we assessed changes in seed metabolite content caused by drought stress in three guar genotypes (tolerant, neutral, and sensitive to drought) in order to gain an insight into molecular mechanisms of guar tolerance to drought. The most intense response to drought was observed in seeds of the tolerant genotype. In response to drought, the content of sugars and their derivatives in the seeds of all three genotypes changed: monosaccharide content increased and glycoside content decreased. However, the tolerant genotype accumulated a specific set of sugars and their derivatives, including galactinol, and demonstrated higher levels of tocopherols. The neutral genotype was characterized by higher content of glycosides and pentoses, while the sensitive genotype had higher accumulation of some specific sugars and derivatives, major phytosterols, and unsaturated C18 fatty acids. Overall, the accumulation of galactinol, phytol, and alpha-tocopherol in seeds was associated with guar drought tolerance. This finding expands the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of drought tolerance in guar and paves the way for breeding drought-tolerant guar varieties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)

17 pages, 8441 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Planting Areas of Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) Under the Influences of Climate Change and Pests Using the MaxEnt Model

by Yuhao Nie, Gaopeng Yu and Hongying Hu

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2777; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122777 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

As a versatile shrub, sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) plays a significant role in restoring degraded ecosystems and supporting regional economies. However, its cultivation faces increasing risks from climate change and pest infestations, particularly from Rhagoletis batava and Cossus cossus. This [...] Read more.

As a versatile shrub, sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) plays a significant role in restoring degraded ecosystems and supporting regional economies. However, its cultivation faces increasing risks from climate change and pest infestations, particularly from Rhagoletis batava and Cossus cossus. This study aimed to evaluate potential suitable planting areas for H. rhamnoides under current and future climate conditions while accounting for pest risks. The MaxEnt model was employed to predict species distributions and their overlap with pest habitats across multiple climate scenarios (SSP126, SSP245, and SSP585) for the periods 2041–2060 and 2081–2100. The results indicate that currently, 61.95% of the suitable areas for H. rhamnoides face threats from pests. Under future scenarios, the total suitable area showed an increasing trend under SSP126 and SSP245, but a significant decrease under SSP585 by the 2090s. Notably, the area severely threatened by both pests was projected to reduce dramatically, by up to 85.40% under the high-emission scenario (SSP585–2090s), suggesting a potential ecological window for cultivation expansion in certain regions. The study introduces a dual-constraint model incorporating both climate and pest variables, providing a more accurate assessment of optimal planting areas. These findings offer critical insights for the sustainable management of H. rhamnoides cultivation by highlighting regions where pest control strategies should be prioritized and informing future policy and management decisions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Pest Management under Climate Change)

24 pages, 12923 KB

Open AccessArticle

Synergistic Regulation of Water–Land–Energy–Food–Carbon Nexus in Large Agricultural Irrigation Areas

by Zhenxiong Wan, Haiyan Li, Xiao Liu, Lijuan Huo, Yingshan Chen, Luchen Wang and Mo Li

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2776; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122776 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Agricultural water resources face growing pressure from rising food demand and environmental changes. In large agricultural irrigation areas, water and land use is closely linked to energy consumption, carbon emissions, and food production. Therefore, regulating the water–land–energy–food–carbon nexus under multiple external changes is [...] Read more.

Agricultural water resources face growing pressure from rising food demand and environmental changes. In large agricultural irrigation areas, water and land use is closely linked to energy consumption, carbon emissions, and food production. Therefore, regulating the water–land–energy–food–carbon nexus under multiple external changes is essential for achieving sustainable agriculture. This study aims to optimize water and land allocation in large agricultural irrigation areas to enhance yields and reduce carbon emissions under different external environments and production conditions. A spatial–temporal synergistic optimization and regulation model for water and land resources in large agricultural irrigation zones is developed. Based on 191 representative irrigation districts in Heilongjiang Province, multiple scenarios are constructed, including water-saving irrigation, climate change and low-carbon irrigation energy transitions. Optimal solutions are identified using the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm Ⅲ. The results indicate that, after optimization in the current scenario, crop production increased by 2.13%, carbon emissions decreased by 1.23%, and irrigation energy productivity rose by 9.33%. Concurrently, water-saving irrigation should be prioritized in western regions. This study provides an efficient water management pathway for major food production regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Water Use and Irrigation)

14 pages, 7589 KB

Open AccessArticle

National-Scale Assessment of Soil pH Change in Chinese Croplands from 1980 to 2018

by Zhong Chen, Yulong Yin, Haiqing Gong, Hongye Wang, Hao Ying, Hongyan Zhang and Zhenling Cui

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2775; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122775 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Soil acid–base status fundamentally regulates biogeochemical cycling and agroecosystem resilience by controlling nutrient solubility, cation exchange, and redox equilibria. However, the long-term evolution of soil pH and its spatial divergence under intensive agricultural expansion remain poorly quantified. Herein, we integrate three nationwide soil [...] Read more.

Soil acid–base status fundamentally regulates biogeochemical cycling and agroecosystem resilience by controlling nutrient solubility, cation exchange, and redox equilibria. However, the long-term evolution of soil pH and its spatial divergence under intensive agricultural expansion remain poorly quantified. Herein, we integrate three nationwide soil surveys (1980, 2012, 2018) encompassing over 190,000 cropland observations into a harmonized 1 km dataset to reconstruct four decades of soil pH change across China. National mean soil pH declined from 7.1 in 1980 to 6.7 in 2012 and 6.6 in 2018, revealing a sustained acidification trend. Nearly one quarter of neutral soils (pH 6.5–7.5) have shifted into acidic classes (<6.5) since 1980, reflecting widespread depletion of soil buffering capacity under intensive fertilization, high rainfall, and carbonate exhaustion. By integrating current pH conditions with standardized pH change rate, we delineate nine bidirectional soil pH risk zones that capture contrasting acidification and alkalization processes along climatic and edaphic gradients. Acidification-prone zones dominate humid southern croplands, whereas alkalization risk prevails in arid northern regions. Our results provide nationally consistent, grid-level evidence of soil acid–base evolution across nearly four decades, offering a quantitative foundation for region-specific soil management to sustain productivity and mitigate environmental risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1491 KB

Open AccessArticle

Relations Among Agronomic Traits of Commercial Blackberry (Rubus subg. Eubatus Focke) Cultivars Under the Climatic Conditions of the Moscow Region

by Olga Ladyzhenskaya, Maxim Simakhin, Vitaliy Donskih, Vladimir Pashutin, Taisiya Glinyuk and Viktoria Kryuchkova

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2774; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122774 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Blackberry (Rubus subg. Eubatus Focke) ranks among the four most commercially valuable berry crops globally, alongside raspberry, strawberry, and blueberry, owing to its high antioxidant content—particularly flavonoids, anthocyanins, and polyphenols. Compared to other berry crops, blackberry cultivation requires lower labor and financial [...] Read more.

Blackberry (Rubus subg. Eubatus Focke) ranks among the four most commercially valuable berry crops globally, alongside raspberry, strawberry, and blueberry, owing to its high antioxidant content—particularly flavonoids, anthocyanins, and polyphenols. Compared to other berry crops, blackberry cultivation requires lower labor and financial inputs, with plantations remaining productive for 12–15 years. In Russia, total blackberry area is limited (~100 ha), and the Moscow Region is particularly suited for trailing and semi-trailing cultivars with early-to-mid-season ripening. This three-year study (2021–2023) conducted at the Tsitsin Main Botanical Garden (RAS) evaluated ten promising blackberry cultivars to (i) assess interrelationships among phenological, morphological, and fruit quality traits; and (ii) identify optimal market niches for each genotype. Cultivars were grouped by ripening time: early (‘Karaka Black’, ‘Loch Tay’, ‘Natchez’) and medium (‘Columbia Sunrise’, ‘Hall’s Beauty’, ‘Caddo’, ‘Columbia Giant’, ‘Victoria’, ‘Brzezina’). Morphologically, ‘Columbia Giant’, ‘Columbia Star’, ‘Columbia Sunrise’, ‘Hall’s Beauty’, and ‘Loch Tay’ exhibited the most balanced architecture. For fresh-market retail, ‘Hall’s Beauty’ (650.3 gf), ‘Loch Tay’ (632.0 gf), and ‘Victoria’ (882.2 gf) stood out for high fruit firmness, whereas ‘Columbia Giant’ (11.5 g fruit mass, 354.1 gf) is recommended for direct consumer sales due to its large fruit size and acceptable firmness. Key trait associations included flowering duration and drupelet number (r = −0.83); fruiting onset and lateral length (r = 0.75); central leaflet length and fruiting laterals per shoot (r = −0.86); fruit number per lateral and Soluble Solids Content (SSC, r = 0.83); and lateral length (r = 0.84). These findings indicate the importance of proper variety selection for establishing blackberry plantations in the specific climatic conditions of the Moscow Region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 16174 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Immunomodulatory Efficacy of Chemogenic and Biogenic Manganese Nanoparticles for Inducing Arsenic Stress Resilience in Rapeseed

by Muhammad Arslan Yousaf, Muhammad Noman, Ayesha Khalil Maan, Basharat Ali, Muhammad Kamran, Muhammad Shahbaz Naeem, Mohammad Shafiqul Islam, Yiwa Hu, Skhawat Ali and Weijun Zhou

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2773; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122773 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Arsenic (As) contamination poses a critical threat to agricultural productivity, affecting rapeseed (Brassica napus L.), an agronomically important crop. A comparative assessment was performed to evaluate the efficacy of chemogenic and biogenic manganese nanoparticles (C-MnNPs and B-MnNPs) for mitigating As toxicity. B-MnNPs [...] Read more.

Arsenic (As) contamination poses a critical threat to agricultural productivity, affecting rapeseed (Brassica napus L.), an agronomically important crop. A comparative assessment was performed to evaluate the efficacy of chemogenic and biogenic manganese nanoparticles (C-MnNPs and B-MnNPs) for mitigating As toxicity. B-MnNPs were biosynthesized using cell-free filtrate of Bacillus pumilus MAY4, while C-MnNPs were obtained from Cwnano Co., Ltd. (Shanghai, China). Greenhouse assays demonstrated that both C-MnNPs and B-MnNPs alleviated detrimental effects of As; however, B-MnNPs exhibited superior performance compared to their chemical counterparts. Compared to As-stressed plants, B-MnNPs enhanced leaf and root biomass (26.4% and 56.15%, respectively), net photosynthetic rate (64.8%), and stomatal conductance (50%). B-MnNPs more effectively reduced oxidative stress markers by activating antioxidant defense systems in both leaf and root tissues. Furthermore, B-MnNPs reduced in planta As accumulation while significantly improving uptake of essential nutrients, including potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, and manganese, etc., in rapeseed plants. Expression studies revealed that B-MnNPs upregulated antioxidant defense and redox homeostasis related stress-responsive genes under induced As stress. Biochemical assays further confirmed the enrichment of stress-responsive phytohormones, including salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, and abscisic acid, in B-MnNP-treated As-stressed rapeseed plants, indicating activation of multi-tier defense response by B-MnNPs to cope with As stress. These findings establish B-MnNPs as a highly effective nano-enabled strategy for managing As toxicity in the rapeseed cultivation system. This research provides critical insights into the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying MnNP-mediated stress tolerance and offers a promising green nanotechnology approach for heavy metal-resilient crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regulation of Nanomaterials in Crop Growth and Physiology Under Abiotic Stress)

19 pages, 5246 KB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptome and Candidate Gene Analysis of the Seed Germination Rate Gene in Capsicum

by Jie Zeng, Minhui Liu, Peiru Li, Lijun Ou and Anna He

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2772; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122772 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

The germination rate of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds is a key indicator of their vitality, which is complexly regulated by genetic and environmental factors. This study aims to elucidate the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the differences in germination rates among [...] Read more.

The germination rate of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds is a key indicator of their vitality, which is complexly regulated by genetic and environmental factors. This study aims to elucidate the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the differences in germination rates among different pepper germplasm resources and identify the key genes regulating this trait. Three representative pepper materials (‘22HL6’, ‘22HL14’, ‘22HL2’) with significantly different germination rates were selected for this study. Key physiological and biochemical parameters during their germination process were systematically evaluated, including germination rate, vigor index, water absorption characteristics, amylase activity, antioxidant enzyme activity, and soluble sugar and protein content. Based on this, candidate genes related to germination rate were screened through transcriptome sequencing, and core candidate genes were preliminarily functionally validated using the Arabidopsis thaliana heterologous overexpression system. Materials with fast germination rates (‘22HL6’, ‘22HL14’) exhibited higher water absorption efficiency, amylase activity, antioxidant protection (such as lower MDA content and higher POD activity), and more active material metabolism (soluble sugar and protein) during the critical 72-h period. Transcriptome analysis successfully identified seven candidate genes closely related to germination rate. Among them, gene Capann_59V1aChr03g048850 had extremely high expression levels in fast-germinating materials but was almost not expressed in slow-germinating materials, and was identified as a core candidate gene. Heterologous overexpression of Capann_59V1aChr03g048850 in A. thaliana significantly promoted seed germination, with transgenic lines exhibiting earlier germination initiation, more developed taproot and lateral root systems, larger rosette diameter, and earlier bolting and flowering compared to wild-type plants. This study reveals the basis for the differences in germination rates of pepper seeds from the physiological and biochemical to molecular mechanism levels, and for the first time links the function of Capann_59V1aChr03g048850 gene to promoting seed germination and early seedling development. This gene provides valuable genetic resources for improving the germination uniformity and seedling vitality of pepper and even other crops through molecular breeding in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1986 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Selected Factors on the Prediction Accuracy of Plant-Available Phosphorus and Potassium: A Global Meta-Analysis for Infrared Spectroscopy Protocol

by Sithembiso Bethwell Fakude, Puffy Soundy and Nondumiso Zanele Sosibo

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2771; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122771 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Chemical methods are reliable for soil testing, but they can be both time-consuming and expensive. This reason makes them unsuitable for quick analysis, especially for many soil samples. Infrared spectroscopy is a cutting-edge technique that offers promising alternative methods that are fast, cheaper, [...] Read more.

Chemical methods are reliable for soil testing, but they can be both time-consuming and expensive. This reason makes them unsuitable for quick analysis, especially for many soil samples. Infrared spectroscopy is a cutting-edge technique that offers promising alternative methods that are fast, cheaper, and environmentally friendly. Research findings show contradicting accuracy levels for the infrared protocol when predicting phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). For this reason, the study employed meta-analysis to investigate the effect of selected factors on the prediction accuracy of P and K. Studies that tested P and K in the laboratory using the protocol were selected. The results showed that concentration and soil sample size can significantly (p < 0.001) affect the prediction accuracy of these plant-available nutrients. A positive correlation was observed between the coefficient of determination (r²), sample size (r² = 0.75 P, r² = 0.68 K), and concentration (r² = 0.62 P, r² = 0.64 K). The variation observed in the dependent variable (r²) was explained mostly by sample size and concentration. This could be the source of the overall low prediction accuracy observed from the studies [r² = 0.46, RPD = 1.44 (P) and r² = 0.55, RPD = 1.55 (K)]. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 14835 KB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Expression of MYB29 Homologs and Their Subfunctionalization in Glucosinolate Biosynthesis in Allotetraploid Brassica juncea

by Lili Zhang, Jingjing Wang, Shanyi Wang, Youjian Yu, Zhujun Zhu and Liai Xu

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2770; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122770 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Brassica juncea (L.) Coss. var. foliosa Bailey contains high glucosinolate (GSL) levels that define its flavor and defense properties. However, the regulatory mechanisms controlling GSL biosynthesis in Brassica crops remain unclear. Here, four MYB29 homologs were identified in allotetraploid Brassica juncea. These [...] Read more.

Brassica juncea (L.) Coss. var. foliosa Bailey contains high glucosinolate (GSL) levels that define its flavor and defense properties. However, the regulatory mechanisms controlling GSL biosynthesis in Brassica crops remain unclear. Here, four MYB29 homologs were identified in allotetraploid Brassica juncea. These BjuMYB29 proteins localize to the nucleus and possess transcriptional activation activity. Evolutionary analysis suggests polyploidization-driven expansion of MYB genes contributed to GLS diversification in Brassica species. Expression profiling showed distinct spatiotemporal and herbivory-responsive patterns among BjuMYB29 homologs. Heterologous expression of BjuA03.MYB29 and BjuA10.MYB29 in Arabidopsis enhanced insect resistance via GSL accumulation. Although both homologs upregulate aliphatic GSL biosynthetic genes, they differentially regulate indolic GSLs, with BjuA03.MYB29 suppressing and BjuA10.MYB29 enhancing their accumulation, potentially through differential control of CYP79B2. These results reveal subfunctionalization among MYB29 homologs in GSL regulation. This functional diversification of MYB29 homologs offers novel targets for precision breeding of Brassica crops with customized GSL profiles to optimize pest resistance and nutritional quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Vegetable Breeding, Genetics and Genomics, 2nd Volume)

22 pages, 4687 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Microbial Fertilizer on Soil Physicochemical Properties and Fungal Community Diversity in Saline–Alkali Soil Cultivated with Oil Sunflowers

by Shangqi Guan, Yantao Liu, Wei Duan, Kaiyong Wang, Peng Wang, Shengli Liu, Xiuping Jia and Yutong Hu

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2769; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122769 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Soil salinization poses a significant threat to agricultural sustainability. This study investigated the effects of different microbial fertilizers on the rhizosphere fungal community and physicochemical properties of saline–alkali soil cultivated with sunflower. Three microbial fertilizers were applied at three concentration gradients to two [...] Read more.

Soil salinization poses a significant threat to agricultural sustainability. This study investigated the effects of different microbial fertilizers on the rhizosphere fungal community and physicochemical properties of saline–alkali soil cultivated with sunflower. Three microbial fertilizers were applied at three concentration gradients to two sunflower varieties with contrasting salt–alkali tolerance (salt-tolerant NX53177 and salt-sensitive NKY1502) to elucidate the mechanisms underlying microbial fertilizer-mediated amelioration of saline–alkali soils. Among all treatments, the application of Aikesa microbial fertilizer at 50 g per pot (treatments T8 and T17) demonstrated the most pronounced ameliorative effects. In the salt-tolerant variety NX53177, the 50 g/L Aikesa fertilizer treatment increased the relative abundance of the beneficial genus Mortierella by 46.2%. It decreased the potentially pathogenic genus Lophotrichus by 82.2% compared to the no-fertilizer control. Soil fungal diversity was significantly improved, with the Shannon index increasing by 9.86% and the Simpson index decreasing by 25.83%. Concurrently, critical soil properties were enhanced: soil pH decreased by 7.79%, salinity decreased by 3.13%, and the contents of organic matter, available nitrogen, available phosphorus, and available potassium increased by 42.13%, 49.96%, 12.34%, and 53.22%, respectively. In the salt-sensitive variety NKY1502, the 50 g/L Aikesa fertilizer treatment increased Mortierella abundance by 15.96% and decreased Lophotrichus by 73.6% compared to the no-fertilizer control. The ACE and Shannon diversity indices increased by 10.00% and 9.92%, respectively, while the Simpson index decreased by 12.17%. Soil health was also markedly improved, with pH decreasing by 7.47%, salinity by 2.95%, and substantial increases in organic matter (57.94%), available nitrogen (75.78%), available phosphorus (13.20%), and available potassium (52.97%). In conclusion, the 50 g/L Aikesa fertilizer treatment effectively improved the rhizosphere fungal community structure and significantly enhanced soil physicochemical properties under saline–alkali stress. These findings provide a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for utilizing microbial fertilizers in ecological restoration and sustainable agricultural development of saline–alkali lands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of the Soil Microbiome on Nutrient Cycling and Soil Health in Agroecosystems)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 5688 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Root-Zone Temperature Regulation on the Growth and Quality of Hydroponic Lettuce in Summer

by Zelan Zhao, Yuliang Cai, Chenchen Gu, Hailing Xu, Yunfei Teng and Wenzhong Guo

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2768; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122768 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

High-air temperature stress inhibits the growth of hydroponic lettuce. The practical application of conventional air cooling is constrained by high cost and moderate efficacy. However, root-zone cooling represents a more promising temperature regulation strategy for vegetable production, offering advantages such as ease of [...] Read more.

High-air temperature stress inhibits the growth of hydroponic lettuce. The practical application of conventional air cooling is constrained by high cost and moderate efficacy. However, root-zone cooling represents a more promising temperature regulation strategy for vegetable production, offering advantages such as ease of integration and lower cost. This study used lettuce (Spanish Green) as the plant material under four RZT treatments: T0 (control: 24.65~31.65 °C), T1 (24.5 °C), T2 (20.5 °C), and T3 (16.5 °C). Growth parameters and nutritional quality indicators under each treatment were systematically monitored, and a comprehensive evaluation was performed using the fuzzy membership function method. All cooling treatments (T1–T3) enhanced lettuce plant height, leaf area, and shoot dry weight. According to the fuzzy membership function analysis, the T1 treatment was found to exhibit the highest overall nutritional value. Although the T0 control group displayed the poorest growth performance, with a shoot dry weight 47.24% lower than that of T1, it accumulated significantly higher levels of P, Ca, and Zn. These findings demonstrate that regulating RZT to approximately 24.5 °C synergistically enhances both biomass and quality in lettuce, providing theoretical and practical support for optimizing hydroponic production in summer conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1209 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Sowing Time Using Cumulative Temperature-Tailored Yield of Vegetable Soybean

by Jeongmin Lee, Minji Kim, Boyun Lee, Minchang Kim, SeungHo Jeon, Pyeong Shin, Hyeonsoo Jang and Jwakyung Sung

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2767; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122767 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Cumulative temperature (CT) serves as a critical factor influencing soybean growth and yield, particularly under changing climatic conditions. This study investigated the relationship between CT, growth traits, and yield components of two vegetable soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) cultivars, ‘Pungsannamulkong’ and ‘Aram’, across [...] Read more.

Cumulative temperature (CT) serves as a critical factor influencing soybean growth and yield, particularly under changing climatic conditions. This study investigated the relationship between CT, growth traits, and yield components of two vegetable soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) cultivars, ‘Pungsannamulkong’ and ‘Aram’, across four sowing dates (late May to late June) in a mid-mountainous region of Korea during 2023–2024. Yield exhibited strong positive correlations with the number of pods per plant (r = 0.88, p < 0.001) and 100-seed weight (r = 0.86, p < 0.001), both indirectly influenced by CT. Structural analysis indicated that CT was indirectly responsible for yield by pod number per plant, which being affected by stem elongation at the R2 stage. The optimal CT range for stable yield was identified as being between 3100 °C and 3500 °C, corresponding to early to mid-June sowing. These findings highlight that optimizing sowing time to secure adequate CT during vegetative growth is a practical adaptation strategy to sustain soybean productivity in mid-mountainous regions under climate warming scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adaptive Adjustment of Crop Management Practices Under Global Warming)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3109 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of the WUSCHEL-Related Homeobox (WOX) Gene Family in Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis)

by Jingai Gao, Dan Zhang, Lixin Xu, Ting Wu, Olunuga Omotola Adebayo, Mohammad Gul Arabzai, Xiaomei Wang, Ping Zheng, Yan Cheng, Boping Tang, Hanyang Cai, Yuan Qin and Lulu Wang

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2766; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122766 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

The WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) transcription factors (TF) regulate critical developmental processes in plants, including organ formation and stem cell maintenance. Although characterized in model species, the WOX family remains unexplored in passion fruit (Passiflora edulis). In this study, 10 WOX genes [...] Read more.

The WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) transcription factors (TF) regulate critical developmental processes in plants, including organ formation and stem cell maintenance. Although characterized in model species, the WOX family remains unexplored in passion fruit (Passiflora edulis). In this study, 10 WOX genes were identified in passion fruit, which are distributed across six chromosomes. We analyzed the phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, conserved motifs, and syntenic relationships of the PeWOX genes. Multiple sequence alignment analysis revealed strong conservation of the homeodomain region among WOX TF family members. Phylogenetic reconstruction further demonstrated that the 10 identified PeWOX genes in passion fruit could be classified into three distinct evolutionary clades: the WUS clade, the Intermediate clade, and the Ancient clade. The conserved motif and gene structure of WOX TF family members in the same evolutionary clade were highly consistent. Expression analysis based on RNA-seq and RT-qPCR showed that most PeWOX genes were expressed during ovule development. The expression level of PeWOX genes varies with different stress conditions. Subcellular localization analysis of tobacco leaf epidermal cells showed that PeWOX3/7/10 proteins were localized in the nucleus and cell membrane. Collectively, this study lays a foundation for future functional studies of passion fruit WOX genes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Genetics of Pollination Mechanism and Fruit Development of Horticultural Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

34 pages, 1639 KB

Open AccessReview

From Microbial Functions to Measurable Indicators: A Framework for Predicting Grassland Productivity and Stability

by Yishu Yang, Xing Zhang, Xiaoxuan Du, Yuchuan Fan and Jie Gao

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2765; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122765 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

Grassland ecosystems play a key role in global carbon and nutrient cycling, yet their productivity is increasingly affected by changing climate, land use, and nutrient inputs. Recent studies have identified plant–microbe interactions as a crucial biological mechanism regulating these changes. However, comprehensive research [...] Read more.

Grassland ecosystems play a key role in global carbon and nutrient cycling, yet their productivity is increasingly affected by changing climate, land use, and nutrient inputs. Recent studies have identified plant–microbe interactions as a crucial biological mechanism regulating these changes. However, comprehensive research across different biomes remains insufficient. This review focuses on the functional characteristics and physiological processes of microorganisms to explore how they influence grassland productivity and stability in the context of global change, and proposes quantifiable indicators to improve model predictions. By integrating evidence from alpine, temperate, and arid grasslands, we summarize how microbial carbon use efficiency(CUE), nutrient cycling enzyme activity, and symbiotic capabilities affect plant nutrient acquisition, carbon allocation, and stress resistance. Meta-analytical data indicate that microbial processes can explain a substantial proportion of productivity variation beyond climatic and edaphic factors. We further outline methodological progress in linking molecular mechanisms with ecosystem dynamics through multi-omics, stable isotope tracing, and structural equation modeling. This synthesis highlights that incorporating microbial mechanisms into grassland productivity frameworks enhances predictive accuracy and provides an empirical basis for sustainable management. Across global grasslands, microbial processes account for roughly 40–50% of the explained variance in productivity beyond abiotic drivers, underscoring their predictive value in ecosystem models. Thes study underscores the broader significance of recognizing soil microbes as active drivers of ecosystem function, offering a biological foundation for carbon sequestration and grassland restoration strategies under global environmental change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Soil Management and Ecological Restoration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3256 KB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptome-Based Development of EST-SSR Molecular Markers and Fingerprint Construction of Trifolium Species

by Jie He, Lijun Yan, Ruchang Hu, Jieyu Ma, Xinquan Zhang and Gang Nie

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2764; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122764 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

The genus Trifolium comprises numerous species that serve as globally important forage and ornamental crops. However, phenotypic difference between species were difficult to define in many cases because of the wide range of diversity caused by primary polymorphism. To effectively identify and differentiate [...] Read more.

The genus Trifolium comprises numerous species that serve as globally important forage and ornamental crops. However, phenotypic difference between species were difficult to define in many cases because of the wide range of diversity caused by primary polymorphism. To effectively identify and differentiate Trifolium species, a total of 5288 candidate EST-SSR molecular markers were developed based on Trifolium repens transcriptome sequencing results, and 132 EST-SSRs that produced clear, reproducible, and highly polymorphic bands were verified after random selection and initial screening. Finally, 202 different bands were amplified by the 28 pairs of SSR primers, and variety identification and DNA fingerprinting were constructed for 16 Trifolium varieties mainly cultivated in China. The polymorphism information index (PIC) ranged from 0.117 to 0.432, with an average of 0.311. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis demonstrated that white clover clustered into a separate group, suggesting a relatively distant genetic relationship with the other 12 Trifolium materials. The DNA fingerprint map of Trifolium species constructed using highly polymorphic markers can effectively distinguish 16 different Trifolium materials. Notably, these markers developed from T. repens show high interspecific transferability, providing a powerful tool for further dissecting genetic diversity within the Trifolium genus, accelerating marker-assisted breeding programs, and reconstructing species domestication trajectories. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Breeding Forage and Bioenergy Grasses for Enhanced Productivity and Stress Resistance)

20 pages, 10220 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction Model of Jujube Yield and First-Order Fruit Rate Based on BP Neural Network and SHAP Analysis

by Xijin Zhao, Chuanjiang Zhang, Shuangquan Jing, Zhihua Tang, Minjuan Lin and Renci Xiong

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2763; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122763 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

To achieve accurate prediction of jujube tree yield and quality, this study developed a prediction model based on a backpropagation (BP) neural network. By measuring the diurnal variation of photosynthetic rate and tree structural parameters at different phenological stages, and screening input variables [...] Read more.

To achieve accurate prediction of jujube tree yield and quality, this study developed a prediction model based on a backpropagation (BP) neural network. By measuring the diurnal variation of photosynthetic rate and tree structural parameters at different phenological stages, and screening input variables through correlation analysis, two prediction models were established: one for yield er plant (with an 11-10-1 network structure) and another for the rate of first-grade fruits (with a 7-8-1 structure). After optimization, both models demonstrated excellent performance, with validation set R² values reaching 0.87556 and 0.94406, respectively. SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) analysis was applied to interpret key influencing factors, revealing that features X11 and X10 contributed the most to the yield-per-plant model, whereas features X7 and X8 were the most critical in the first-grade fruit rate model. Response surface analysis further identified optimal parameter intervals for high yield and quality: the yield per plant was maximized when photosynthetically active radiation in the evening during the fruiting period was between 0.7–0.8 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ and tree height was 2.5–3.5 m; the rate of first-grade fruits was optimized when tree height ranged from 1 to 4 m and the number of first-grade branches was between 1 and 13. This study provides a reliable prediction tool and a theoretical foundation for precision management in jujube cultivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1371 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bioccumulation, Gender-Specific Differences, and Biomagnification of Heavy Metals Through a Tri-Trophic Chain

by Dania Berenice Rebollo-Salinas, Patricia Mussali-Galante, Leticia Valencia-Cuevas, Zenón Cano-Santana, Alexis Rodríguez, María Luisa Castrejón-Godínez and Efraín Tovar-Sánchez

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2762; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122762 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

Mining activities have led to contamination of natural resources by heavy metals (HMs). Biomagnification studies of HMs within food webs are necessary for understanding the progressive increase in metal burdens across trophic levels and their potential ecotoxicological consequences. This study examined the trophic [...] Read more.

Mining activities have led to contamination of natural resources by heavy metals (HMs). Biomagnification studies of HMs within food webs are necessary for understanding the progressive increase in metal burdens across trophic levels and their potential ecotoxicological consequences. This study examined the trophic transfer of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn in a tri-trophic model involving maize plants (Zea mays), their herbivore, the grasshopper Sphenarium purpurascens, and their predator, the spider Neoscona oaxacensis, under controlled conditions. Samples from all individuals were collected in Huautla, Morelos, Mexico, where three tailing deposits are present, containing approximately 780,000 tons of waste rich in HMs. We evaluated the body biomass of the grasshopper and the percentage of maize leaf material consumed with and without HMs. HM bioaccumulation in maize, grasshopper, and spider tissues was analyzed, and the enrichment process, along with gender related effects on HM bioaccumulation in females and males of S. purpurascens, was studied. The results revealed enrichment of Pb, Cd, and Cu in maize leaf tissue, except for Zn. Grasshoppers exhibited biomagnification of the same metals, except for Cd. Metal bioaccumulation resulted in a reduced biomass of female and male grasshoppers, accompanied by an increased leaf consumption compared to grasshoppers fed maize leaves without HMs. The HMs’ bioaccumulation levels differed between genders, with males recording significantly higher concentrations of Zn and Pb. The excretion of HMs in feces and their bioaccumulation in exoskeletons are two efficient metal detoxification strategies in grasshoppers. This study revealed biomagnification in the spider N. oaxacensis, confirming metal biomagnification to higher trophic levels and providing critical insight into exposure pathways, risks to wildlife and humans, and how metal pollutants may disrupt ecosystem integrity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2029 KB

Open AccessReview

Resistance of Creeping Bentgrass to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses: A Model System for Grass Stress Biology

by Zhuang Ren, Xinbo Sun, Yalin Chen, Yaxi Zhang, Meng Yuan, Mengyu Li, Xiaopeng Ren and Xiaodong Wang

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2761; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122761 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

Agrostis stolonifera L., commonly known as creeping bentgrass, is an important cool-season turfgrass used in landscaping and sports fields. However, creeping bentgrass is prone to various diseases, including dollar spot, brown patch, and bacterial yellowing, during its maintenance, leading to significant degradation in [...] Read more.

Agrostis stolonifera L., commonly known as creeping bentgrass, is an important cool-season turfgrass used in landscaping and sports fields. However, creeping bentgrass is prone to various diseases, including dollar spot, brown patch, and bacterial yellowing, during its maintenance, leading to significant degradation in turf quality, esthetics, and greening functions, resulting in substantial losses in turfgrass production and management. On the other hand, extreme environmental conditions such as high temperatures, drought, and salinity have also caused a decline in the quality of creeping bentgrass. Moreover, creeping bentgrass has a moderately sized genome and is easy to genetically transform, making it an ideal model system for studying grass stress biology. This article provides an overview of the major diseases and stressors in the management of creeping bentgrass and proposes future research directions for the disease resistance and stress tolerance of creeping bentgrass. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grass and Forage Diseases: Etiology, Epidemic and Management)

27 pages, 3610 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Natural Defender: Endophytic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens AsL-1 from Alstonia scholaris Latex Effectively Controls Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in Mango

by Sabiha Ramadani, Jue-Liang Hsu and Douglas J. H. Shyu

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2760; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122760 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

Biological control using beneficial microbes offers a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides for managing postharvest diseases. This study reports the isolation and characterization of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens AsL-1 from the latex of Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br., unconventional ecological niche. The cell-free supernatant [...] Read more.

Biological control using beneficial microbes offers a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides for managing postharvest diseases. This study reports the isolation and characterization of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens AsL-1 from the latex of Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br., unconventional ecological niche. The cell-free supernatant (CFS) of AsL-1 showed strong antifungal activity, inhibiting the growth of Colletotrichum musae (48.89 ± 0.57%), Glomerella cingulata (52.22 ± 0.00%), Fusarium graminearum (47.78 ± 0.57%), and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (47.78 ± 0.00%) in vitro. Microscopy revealed that the CFS disrupted fungal development by blocking conidial germination and appressorium formation, and in C. gloeosporioides caused melanization defects linked to reduced virulence. In vivo tests on mango fruit confirmed that AsL-1 significantly decreased anthracnose lesion size and disease incidence. Protein analyses (SDS-PAGE, gel overlay, and LC-MS/MS) identified two antifungal proteins (24 and 16 kDa), corresponding to β-1,3-1,4-glucanase and flagellin. The detected β-1,3-1,4-glucanase activity indicates its role in degrading fungal cell walls and interfering with melanin biosynthesis pathways essential for pathogenicity. Overall, these findings highlight B. amyloliquefaciens AsL-1 as a promising protein-based biocontrol agent and show that latex-associated microbes may serve as valuable sources of new antifungal strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Sustainable Agriculture: Biopesticides and the Biological Control for Pest Management)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Journal Description

Agronomy

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Special Issues

Topical Collections

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI