International Journal of Plant Biology

16 pages, 6540 KB

Open AccessArticle

De Novo Transcriptome Assembly and Differential Gene Expression Analysis of the Global Invader Thunbergia alata Under Varying Light Conditions

by Juan Camilo Alvarez-Diaz, Daniela Marin, Mariana Espinal-Guzman, Esteban Felipe Loaiza-Jaramillo and Mario Alberto Quijano-Abril

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(9), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17090082 - 2 Sep 2026

Abstract

Biological invasions threaten tropical biodiversity, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying successful invaders remain poorly understood. Thunbergia alata (Black-eyed Susan) is an aggressive “genomic orphan” invader in Andean forests, causing significant ecological disruption. This study contributes as one of the few transcriptomic profiles of [...] Read more.

Biological invasions threaten tropical biodiversity, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying successful invaders remain poorly understood. Thunbergia alata (Black-eyed Susan) is an aggressive “genomic orphan” invader in Andean forests, causing significant ecological disruption. This study contributes as one of the few transcriptomic profiles of light vs. shade responses in T. alata, providing a foundational molecular resource for this species. We performed differential expression analysis under varying light conditions, revealing a massive transcriptomic shift involving over 4000 differentially expressed genes. Our findings suggest a robust and stable homeostatic adaptation mechanism, characterized by the up-regulation of SnRK1 subunits for energy sensing and strategic management of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) within the thylakoid membrane. Furthermore, the fine-tuning of PIF/Auxin modules and the condition-specific induction of NAC and WRKY transcription factors facilitate shade avoidance and rapid vertical growth. The identification of a substantial reservoir of species-specific “not classified” genes suggests that novel genetic elements contribute to T. alata’s adaptive success. By elucidating these key regulatory networks, this research provides an important genomic baseline for future studies on adaptive evolution and the development of molecularly informed strategies for managing and controlling this invasive species in new environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Biochemistry and Genetics)

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37 pages, 431 KB

Open AccessReview

Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism Chip Platforms in Rice (Oryza sativa) Genomics and Their Potential for Precision Breeding

by Ha Duc Chu, Trung Quoc Nguyen, Anh Quynh Ho, Gioi Huy Dong, Hong Viet La, Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao and Linh Hong Ta

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(9), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17090081 - 31 Aug 2026

Abstract

Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays provide reproducible, accurate, and scalable genotyping for rice research and cultivar development. This review critically evaluates the design and development of major rice SNP platforms and defines their value within a rapidly changing genotyping landscape. In contrast to earlier [...] Read more.

Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays provide reproducible, accurate, and scalable genotyping for rice research and cultivar development. This review critically evaluates the design and development of major rice SNP platforms and defines their value within a rapidly changing genotyping landscape. In contrast to earlier platform-centered summaries, this review connects array selection with the complete breeding pathway from germplasm assessment and locus discovery to functional validation, marker-assisted transfer, genomic selection, varietal authentication, and pre-breeding. SNP arrays are compared with genotyping-by-sequencing, double-digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing, low-pass sequencing, whole-genome resequencing, targeted sequencing, and long-read sequencing in terms of cost, throughput, data completeness, computational demand, marker discovery, and population transferability. Candidate-locus validation through gene-expression analysis, haplotype analysis, near-isogenic lines, RNA interference, transgenic complementation, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein (CRISPR/Cas) editing, and field evaluation is also examined. Pangenome resources and the contributions of structural variants, presence/absence variations, and copy number variations to probe design and trait analysis receive particular attention. The review further assesses ascertainment bias, weak detection of rare alleles, genotype-cluster errors, limited portability across distant germplasm, and reduced genomic prediction across populations or environments. Future priorities include multi-omics integration, climate-resilient rice improvement, modular panels, imputation anchor loci, and economical deployment through low-density assays, shared facilities, and kompetitive allele-specific polymerase chain reaction conversion. The value of SNP arrays is greatest when stable genotype calls, large sample numbers, and repeated use across breeding cycles are required. Their practical contribution should be judged by prediction accuracy, selection cost, cycle duration, donor-segment control, realized genetic gain, and cultivar deployment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Biochemistry and Genetics)

27 pages, 3426 KB

Open AccessArticle

Image-Based Identification of Crop and Weed Species at the Seedling Stage: Deep Learning Classifiers Rely on Acquisition Context Beyond Plant Morphology

by Lyna Miloudi, Khaled Rezeg and Mohamed Kotoub Miloudi

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(9), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17090080 - 29 Aug 2026

Abstract

Distinguishing crop from weed species at the seedling stage is a fine-grained morphological discrimination problem. We study it on the public Plant Seedlings benchmark, which contains twelve species (three crops and nine weeds) imaged at the seedling stage. Automated classifiers report near-ceiling accuracy [...] Read more.

Distinguishing crop from weed species at the seedling stage is a fine-grained morphological discrimination problem. We study it on the public Plant Seedlings benchmark, which contains twelve species (three crops and nine weeds) imaged at the seedling stage. Automated classifiers report near-ceiling accuracy on this benchmark. Yet its images are acquired in controlled trays containing soil, gravel, rulers, barcodes, and printed labels, so a model may identify a species from its acquisition context rather than its morphology. We audit two architectures, EfficientNet-B7 and ViT-B/16, trained on the V2 dataset (5539 images) and probed with plant-only, background-only, and background-swapped inputs. Near-ceiling models (96.1% and 96.4% over three seeds) recover the correct species for up to 47.7% of samples from the background alone (chance 8.3%) and lose about 60 points under background swapping. Context reliance is therefore a property of the benchmark, not any single architecture. Tracing this to its source, an independent learned representation of the plant-free background alone identifies the species at 72.4%. The reliance is correctable end to end: a consistency-regularisation scheme retains 92.1% full-image accuracy for the transformer with no segmentation at inference, at an architecture-dependent cost. Reported accuracy thus partly measures acquisition context, not morphology; morphological grounding should be measured and reported alongside accuracy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Application of Artificial Intelligence in Plant Biology)

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21 pages, 1076 KB

Open AccessArticle

Medicinal Herbs and Spices from Mount Athos, Greece: Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Activity, and Qualitative Effects on Oxidative DNA Damage

by Efthymios Poulios, Sousana K. Papadopoulou, Evmorfia Psara, Agathi Pritsa and Constantinos Giaginis

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(9), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17090079 - 29 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Medicinal and aromatic plants are important sources of phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties. This study evaluated the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity of 19 commercially available medicinal herb and spice products of reported Mount Athos provenance and investigated the influence [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Medicinal and aromatic plants are important sources of phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties. This study evaluated the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity of 19 commercially available medicinal herb and spice products of reported Mount Athos provenance and investigated the influence of extraction solvent on these properties. Methods: Extracts were prepared by ultrasound-assisted extraction using water, 50% aqueous methanol, or 50% aqueous acetone. TPC was determined using the Folin–Ciocalteu assay, while antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and a qualitative supercoiled plasmid DNA relaxation assay. Solvent effects were assessed using Friedman and post hoc Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and associations between TPC and antioxidant activity were examined using correlation and regression analyses. Results: TPC and antioxidant activity varied considerably among botanical products and extraction conditions, with Origanum spp. generally exhibiting among the highest TPC values and strong antioxidant responses. Aqueous acetone yielded significantly higher TPC than aqueous methanol and water. Both aqueous organic solvents produced greater DPPH inhibition than water, whereas aqueous methanol produced greater ABTS activity than water; no significant solvent effect was observed for FRAP. TPC was positively associated with antioxidant activity, particularly ABTS and FRAP, explaining up to 78% of its variability. Several extracts also preserved the supercoiled plasmid DNA form under hydroxyl radical-generating conditions, although this observation requires quantitative confirmation. Conclusions: Medicinal herbs and spices of Athonite provenance exhibit considerable phytochemical and antioxidant variability. Extraction solvent influences phenolic recovery and antioxidant activity in an assay-dependent manner, with no single solvent being uniformly superior. These findings provide baseline data supporting further phytochemical characterization and quantitative evaluation of the antioxidant and DNA-protective properties of these botanical materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Biochemistry and Genetics)

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15 pages, 2225 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bioactivity of Ascophyllum nodosum in Mitigating Water Stress Induced by PEG-6000 in Maize Seeds

by Janyne Soares Braga Pires, Francine Bonomo Crispim Silva, Maria Eduarda da Silva Barbosa, Geovana Ribeiro Cavilha, Mateus Moura Coelho, Samile Mardegan Otilia, Fernando Gomes Hoste, Ana Júlia Câmara Jeveaux-Machado, Lúcio de Oliveira Arantes, Vinicius de Souza Oliveira, Simone Alves Fernandes, Johnatan Jair de Paula Marchiori, Adriano Alves Fernandes and Sara Dousseau-Arantes

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(9), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17090078 - 22 Aug 2026

Abstract

Water deficit is one of the main limiting factors for crop establishment and productivity, particularly during seed germination and early seedling development. This study aimed to evaluate the biostimulant potential of Ascophyllum nodosum extract applied to maize (Zea mays L.) seeds subjected [...] Read more.

Water deficit is one of the main limiting factors for crop establishment and productivity, particularly during seed germination and early seedling development. This study aimed to evaluate the biostimulant potential of Ascophyllum nodosum extract applied to maize (Zea mays L.) seeds subjected to osmotic stress induced by polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000). Three independent bioassays were conducted under controlled conditions. In the first assay, osmotic potentials ranging from 0 to −0.8 MPa were evaluated to characterize stress levels and identify conditions representative of moderate and severe water deficit. In the second assay, increasing doses (0 to 2.0 mL kg⁻¹ of seeds) of a commercial A. nodosum-based extract and its isolated mineral fraction were evaluated to determine the optimal application range. In the third assay, the selected treatment was evaluated under control conditions and under moderate (−0.6 MPa) and severe (−0.8 MPa) osmotic stress. Germination percentage, normal and abnormal seedlings, radicle and epicotyl length, and seedling vigor index were assessed. Osmotic stress progressively reduced germination and seedling growth, with the strongest effects observed at −0.6 and −0.8 MPa. Seed treatment with A. nodosum extract did not impair final germination but improved seedling development in a dose-dependent manner. The highest efficiency was observed at intermediate doses, with maximum normal seedling percentage predicted at 0.45 mL kg⁻¹ and maximum radicle growth at approximately 0.66 mL kg⁻¹. Under water deficit conditions, the complete extract promoted greater improvements in seedling performance than the mineral fraction, indicating that the beneficial effects were mainly associated with bioactive organic compounds rather than mineral nutrition alone. These findings provide new evidence that dose optimization is essential for maximizing the efficiency of seaweed-based biostimulants and demonstrate the potential of A. nodosum seed treatment as a sustainable strategy to improve maize establishment under water-limited conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Response to Stresses)

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25 pages, 8337 KB

Open AccessArticle

CRISPR/Cas9-Induced Dwarfism in Barley: Impacts on Yield-Related Traits and Root Architecture

by Jovana Eskildsen, Tobias Hanak, Rebecca Hood-Nowotny, Magdalena Musialak-Lange, Ewelina Sokolowska, Sylwia Kierszniowska, Claus Krogh Madsen, Inger Holme and Henrik Brinch-Pedersen

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080077 - 20 Aug 2026

Abstract

Dwarf cereal cultivars were crucial for the Green Revolution. Dwarfed, lodging-resistant varieties remain essential today, as climate change brings more storms and downpours. In barley, the dwarfing gene HvDEP1 has been widely used in breeding. Although its pleiotropic effects on agronomic traits have [...] Read more.

Dwarf cereal cultivars were crucial for the Green Revolution. Dwarfed, lodging-resistant varieties remain essential today, as climate change brings more storms and downpours. In barley, the dwarfing gene HvDEP1 has been widely used in breeding. Although its pleiotropic effects on agronomic traits have been examined, previous studies relied on cultivars developed via random mutagenesis, which carry background mutations that may influence phenotypes. Moreover, its impact on root traits remains underexplored. We used CRISPR/Cas9 to generate precise HvDEP1 mutants and introduce dwarfism into the barley cultivar ‘Maythorpe.’ We assessed the effects on above-ground morphology, yield-related traits, root architecture, biomass via ¹³C labelling, and the root metabolome. HvDEP1 mutations significantly reduced plant height, straw, spike, and awn length, as well as thousand-grain weight. An in-frame mutant showed intermediate height, straw, and awn phenotypes. Belowground, in a root experiment restricted to knockout line #12, specific root length and the length of the finest (0–0.25 mm) roots were reduced, while total root length was lower but not significantly so; (p = 0.062). Root metabolomic profiling detected no genotype-associated differences. These results provide new insights into HvDEP1′s role in both shoot and root systems and demonstrate that precise CRISPR/Cas9-mediated editing can rapidly introduce dwarfism while revealing trade-offs in other agronomic traits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Biochemistry and Genetics)

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12 pages, 5694 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rice-Based Trichoderma Inocula Enhance Fruit Production of Cutleaf Groundcherry (Physalis angulata L.) in the Amazon

by César Augusto Ticona-Benavente, Erica Ines Almeida de Souza, Álvaro Brasil Barbosa Neto, Jean Piere Jesús Chicana Marina, José Ramirez-Chung, Johnny Campos-Cedano and Jorge Villacres-Vallejo

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080076 - 18 Aug 2026

Abstract

In Amazonian Spodosols, soil acidity and nutrient constraints limit the cultivation of cutleaf groundcherry. One sustainable alternative for cultivating this species is the use of Trichoderma inoculants, but studies on their use in this crop are scarce. This study evaluated whether rice-based inocula [...] Read more.

In Amazonian Spodosols, soil acidity and nutrient constraints limit the cultivation of cutleaf groundcherry. One sustainable alternative for cultivating this species is the use of Trichoderma inoculants, but studies on their use in this crop are scarce. This study evaluated whether rice-based inocula of Trichoderma harzianum (TH) CCB-LA101 and T. viride (TV) CCB-LA103 improved growth and fruit production of cutleaf groundcherry and whether the responses varied with the application dose. Plants were grown in a randomized complete block design with a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement: two Trichoderma species and three inoculum doses applied to the soil (0, 4, and 8 g plant⁻¹; Trichoderma concentration of 3.2 × 10⁹ CFU g⁻¹). Species and dose affected fruit width, length, number, and yield, with TH more effective than TV at increasing fruit number and yield. The contrast between inoculated and non-inoculated plants was significant for all traits. The 8 g plant⁻¹ dose significantly increased fruit number and yield by 22.8% and 17.7%, respectively, relative to the non-inoculated control, whereas fruit width and fruit length decreased by 8.3% and 7.3%, respectively. Considering the six treatment combinations, the 8 g plant⁻¹ TH inoculum (TH8) was the only treatment to significantly increase fruit yield, with net returns for smallholders estimated at USD 1104.46 ha⁻¹. Therefore, under the tested conditions, TH8 could be used to grow cutleaf groundcherry in Amazonian Spodosols. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant–Microorganisms Interactions)

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13 pages, 6827 KB

Open AccessArticle

Image-Based Phenotyping for Early Assessment of Radiosensitivity of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) Seedlings Irradiated with Gamma Rays

by Antonio Samudio Oggero, Daisy Ramírez Monzón, Héctor D. Nakayama, Luis Felipe Medeiro Alves, Valter Arthur, Oscar Vega Alvarenga, Gloria A. Resquín Romero, Wilson Romero Vergara and Juan D. Avalos Añazco

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080075 - 17 Aug 2026

Abstract

Calibrating the mutagenic dose is the first practical step of any radiation mutation-breeding programme, and it is usually summarised by the median lethal dose (LD50) or the median growth-reduction dose (GR50). We asked whether an accessible, image-based phenotyping pipeline can quantify the early [...] Read more.

Calibrating the mutagenic dose is the first practical step of any radiation mutation-breeding programme, and it is usually summarised by the median lethal dose (LD50) or the median growth-reduction dose (GR50). We asked whether an accessible, image-based phenotyping pipeline can quantify the early radiation response of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) seedlings finely enough to estimate GR50 and to rank organ- and pigment-level sensitivities. Seeds of the traditional Paraguayan landrace kumandá pyta’i were exposed to Cobalt-60 gamma rays at 0, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, and 700 Gy, grown in a greenhouse, and photographed at the early seedling stage. A single calibrated photograph (5.1 px mm⁻¹) of 83 seedlings was segmented in Fiji/ImageJ 1.54p and analysed with Python to extract morphometric traits (total, root, and shoot length, root:shoot ratio, tortuosity, and a two-dimensional biomass proxy) and colorimetric traits (CIE L*a*b*, a normalised greenness index, and colour-class pixel fractions). Because the data departed from normality, dose effects were tested with Kruskal–Wallis, Spearman rank correlation, and Dunn post hoc tests, and GR50 was estimated by regression of each trait expressed as a percentage of the control. Total length, shoot length, and the biomass proxy declined significantly with dose (Spearman ρ = −0.40, −0.51, and −0.47; all p < 0.001), preceded by a low-dose stimulation at 100 Gy. Estimated GR50 values were ≈390 Gy for shoot length, ≈510 Gy for total length, and ≈550 Gy for the biomass proxy, within the range reported for other cowpea genotypes. Shoot elongation was more radiosensitive than root elongation, so the root:shoot ratio did not decline; tortuosity showed no dose response. Among pigment traits, the loss of greenness was the most robust signal (a* increased, ρ = +0.62, p = 5 × 10⁻¹⁰; green pixel fraction fell from 0.32 to near zero by 500 Gy). These results show that single-photograph phenotyping resolves a coherent, statistically supported dose response and yields a GR50 estimate usable for dose calibration. For kumandá pyta’i, doses of roughly 300–400 Gy (below GR50) are the most defensible starting window for mutation induction. The framework is reproducible and low-cost, but it is based on one greenhouse experiment and a single genotype, and should be validated across independent trials and cultivars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Response to Stresses)

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38 pages, 3246 KB

Open AccessReview

Physiological, Morphological, and Transcriptomic Basis of Biostimulant-Induced Abiotic Stress Resilience in Horticultural Crops: A Review

by Awais Ali, Md Noor E Azam Khan, Nishma Dhakal, Fahmida Fiza, Zhiheng Xing, Joseph Masabni and Genhua Niu

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080074 - 16 Aug 2026

Abstract

Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of abiotic stresses, including salinity, drought, heat, and heavy metal toxicity, which strongly threaten productivity, quality, and market value in horticultural crops. Although plant biostimulants have been widely reviewed in agronomic crops, their role in [...] Read more.

Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of abiotic stresses, including salinity, drought, heat, and heavy metal toxicity, which strongly threaten productivity, quality, and market value in horticultural crops. Although plant biostimulants have been widely reviewed in agronomic crops, their role in horticultural systems remains less comprehensively synthesized, particularly across different crop groups, stress types, application methods, and molecular response mechanisms. This review addresses this gap by systematically compiling current evidence on the use of biostimulants to improve abiotic stress resilience in horticultural crops, with particular emphasis on morphological, physiological, biochemical, and recently emerging molecular responses, especially transcriptomic evidence with supporting metabolomic information where available. Publications were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection using two searches covering 2016–2025 for morphological/physiological responses and 2021–2025 for molecular/genetic responses. Of 780 records initially identified, 134 studies met the inclusion criteria. Across these studies, the most frequently evaluated biostimulants were seaweed extracts, humic and fulvic substances, protein hydrolysates, and microbial inoculants, particularly PGPR and AMF. Biostimulant application consistently improved stress tolerance by enhancing antioxidant capacity, osmotic adjustment, nutrient use efficiency, cell wall strengthening, and hormonal regulation. Foliar applications were frequently used for rapid mitigation of drought- and heat-induced canopy-level physiological responses, whereas soil/root-zone application was more common for salinity and heavy metal stress. Emerging molecular evidence, dominated by transcriptomic studies and supported by limited metabolomic data, indicates that biostimulants may induce molecular priming through stress-responsive gene networks and associated metabolic adjustments. Overall, biostimulants show strong potential to improve abiotic stress resilience in horticultural crops, but broader adoption is constrained by variable efficacy, limited mechanistic validation, and inconsistent regulatory frameworks. Future research should prioritize multi-environment validation and functional genetics to support more reliable and targeted biostimulant use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Response to Stresses)

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36 pages, 1200 KB

Open AccessReview

Phenomics and High-Throughput Phenotyping of Photosynthetic Traits for Improving Abiotic Stress Resilience in Wheat and Rice

by Amit Yadav, Anuradha Singh, Saurabh Pandey and Jyotirmaya Mathan

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080073 - 15 Aug 2026

Abstract

Photosynthesis is the fundamental biological process underlying plant growth, crop productivity, and global food security. However, its efficiency is highly vulnerable to abiotic stresses, which disrupt chlorophyll biosynthesis, electron transport, carbon assimilation, stomatal regulation, and photoprotective mechanisms, ultimately reducing crop yield. Improving photosynthetic [...] Read more.

Photosynthesis is the fundamental biological process underlying plant growth, crop productivity, and global food security. However, its efficiency is highly vulnerable to abiotic stresses, which disrupt chlorophyll biosynthesis, electron transport, carbon assimilation, stomatal regulation, and photoprotective mechanisms, ultimately reducing crop yield. Improving photosynthetic resilience under adverse environments has therefore become a major objective of modern crop improvement. Recent advances in phenomics and high-throughput phenotyping (HTP) have transformed the evaluation of photosynthesis-related traits by enabling rapid, non-destructive, and large-scale assessment across diverse environments, while facilitating quantitative characterization of structural, physiological, biochemical, and thermal responses to abiotic stress. Technologies including chlorophyll fluorescence, gas-exchange analysis, thermal imaging, hyperspectral imaging, LiDAR, and UAV-based sensing provide comprehensive insights into plant physiological responses and stress adaptation. Integration of these phenomic approaches with genomic information and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven analytical frameworks has strengthened genomic and phenomic prediction, enabling more accurate identification of candidate genes, selection of superior genotypes, and accelerated genetic gain. This review critically synthesizes recent advances in photosynthesis-related traits, phenomics, HTP technologies, and their integration with genomics and AI-assisted breeding, highlighting current challenges, knowledge gaps, and future opportunities for developing climate-resilient wheat and rice cultivars and promoting sustainable crop production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology)

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22 pages, 2860 KB

Open AccessReview

Trends, Impact and Perspectives of Research on the Annonaceae Family in Mexico: A Bibliometric Analysis

by Blanca Patricia Castellanos-Potenciano, Erika Belem Castillo-Linares and Eder Ramos-Hernández

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080072 - 13 Aug 2026

Abstract

The Annonaceae family in Mexico comprises a wide diversity of species with economic, cultural, agricultural, and pharmacological importance; however, research on this group remains fragmented. Therefore, this study analyzed the scientific output on Annonaceae in Mexico using a bibliometric approach. A total of [...] Read more.

The Annonaceae family in Mexico comprises a wide diversity of species with economic, cultural, agricultural, and pharmacological importance; however, research on this group remains fragmented. Therefore, this study analyzed the scientific output on Annonaceae in Mexico using a bibliometric approach. A total of 342 articles published between 1980 and 2025 in the Web of Science were retrieved and analyzed using VOSviewer version 1.6.16. The results showed a sustained increase in annual scientific production; approximately 90% of the articles were published in Q1 journals, with impact factors ranging from 1.3 to 13.4, highlighting the scientific relevance of this family. The main research areas were plant sciences, agriculture, biochemistry and molecular biology, entomology, and food science and technology. Emerging topics focused on the antitumor potential of species such as Annona muricata, A. cherimola, A. coriacea, and A. purpurea. Research on Annonaceae in Mexico has expanded in a multidisciplinary manner, although limited interaction between different areas and institutions persists. This field offers opportunities for biodiversity conservation, sustainable use, and the development of biotechnological and pharmacological applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Ecology and Biodiversity)

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13 pages, 1904 KB

Open AccessArticle

Micropropagation of Nymphaea pubescens: An Efficient Protocol for Tuber-Derived Tissue Culture, Shoot Multiplication, and Field Establishment

by Nattawut Rodboot and Sureerat Yenchon

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080071 - 13 Aug 2026

Abstract

Waterlilies (Nymphaea spp.) are ecologically and ornamentally important aquatic plants, yet their micropropagation remains challenging due to endophytic contamination and the recalcitrant nature of tuber explants. This study established an efficient in vitro protocol for Nymphaea pubescens using field-collected tubers. Surface sterilization [...] Read more.

Waterlilies (Nymphaea spp.) are ecologically and ornamentally important aquatic plants, yet their micropropagation remains challenging due to endophytic contamination and the recalcitrant nature of tuber explants. This study established an efficient in vitro protocol for Nymphaea pubescens using field-collected tubers. Surface sterilization with 0.2% mercuric chloride (HgCl₂) for 15 min achieved complete sterility with 80% explant viability, and an “escape technique” of excising newly emerged shoots from the maternal tuber reduced latent bacterial contamination. Liquid Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with 1.0 mg/L 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), 0.1 mg/L thidiazuron (TDZ), and 0.5 mg/L 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) produced greater shoot multiplication (17.20 ± 2.53 shoots/explant) and elongation (1.03 ± 0.22 cm) than semi-solid medium (9.70 ± 2.11 shoots/explant; 0.70 ± 0.13 cm) (p < 0.01). Transfer to semi-solid maturation medium with glutamine and casein hydrolysate produced the highest survival rate (100%) and significantly improved shoot quality (p < 0.01), mitigating hyperhydricity from prolonged liquid culture. Rooting on semi-solid medium with 0.5 mg/L NAA yielded 90% rooting, and over 80% of acclimatized plantlets established successfully in the field within two weeks. These results provide a practical, reproducible protocol for conservation and mass propagation of N. pubescens and a foundation for future in vitro mutation breeding in ornamental waterlilies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Reproduction)

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24 pages, 9000 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dosage-Specific Effects of Commercial Seaweed Extracts on Seedling Growth, Biomass Accumulation and Root Growth Traits of Capsicum annuum

by Prabhaharan Renganathan, Kristina Borisovna Ukhatkina, Makhmutov Almaz, Ilya Isidorovich Van Erp and Lira A. Gaysina

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080070 - 7 Aug 2026

Cited by 1

Abstract

Commercial seaweed extracts (SWEs) are widely used as plant biostimulants; however, information on formulation-specific optimum dosages for greenhouse-grown Capsicum annuum seedlings is limited. This study evaluated the effects of five commercial SWE formulations applied at five dosages (1–5 mL L⁻¹) on [...] Read more.

Commercial seaweed extracts (SWEs) are widely used as plant biostimulants; however, information on formulation-specific optimum dosages for greenhouse-grown Capsicum annuum seedlings is limited. This study evaluated the effects of five commercial SWE formulations applied at five dosages (1–5 mL L⁻¹) on seedling growth, biomass accumulation, and root growth under greenhouse conditions. Morphological traits, biomass characteristics, and growth efficiency indices were assessed using univariate and multivariate statistical approaches to identify formulation-specific optimum application rates. Commercial SWE application significantly (p < 0.05) increased chlorophyll content, shoot and root growth, and fresh biomass, although the magnitude of the response varied among the formulations and application rates. The optimum dosages identified by the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) were ASCO at 2 mL L⁻¹, AQUA at 3 mL L⁻¹, BIO at 2 mL L⁻¹, KAT at 3 mL L⁻¹, and SAGA at 3 mL L⁻¹. Principal component and Pearson correlation analyses further demonstrated coordinated improvements across multiple growth traits. These findings demonstrate that optimum seedling performance depends on formulation-specific rather than universal application rates. The identified optimum dosages provide practical guidance for selecting commercial seaweed biostimulant application rates in greenhouse C. annuum nurseries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology)

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15 pages, 2001 KB

Open AccessArticle

Acaricidal and Repellent Activities of Rhizobacterial Isolates Against Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) Under Laboratory and Greenhouse Conditions

by Said Bahoch, Salahddine Chafiki, Soumaya El Assri, Abdessamad Elaasri, Rachid Elaini, Fouad Elame, Ahmed Wifaya, Mohamed Ouknin, El Hassan Mayad, Rachid Bouharroud and Redouan Qessaoui

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080069 - 6 Aug 2026

Abstract

The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, is a highly polyphagous and economically important pest affecting a wide range of crops worldwide. This study evaluated the potential of four rhizobacterial isolates—Leucobacter aridicollis (IQR1), Paenochrobactrum sp. (IQR2), uncultured bacterium IQR3, and marine bacterium [...] Read more.

The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, is a highly polyphagous and economically important pest affecting a wide range of crops worldwide. This study evaluated the potential of four rhizobacterial isolates—Leucobacter aridicollis (IQR1), Paenochrobactrum sp. (IQR2), uncultured bacterium IQR3, and marine bacterium AK6_052 (IQR5)—as candidate biological control agents against T. urticae. The rhizobacterial isolates were obtained from the tomato rhizosphere at the INRA experimental farm (Agadir, Morocco) and evaluated for their acaricidal and repellent activities against T. urticae. Corrected mortality and repellency index were assessed after 24, 48, and 72 h of exposure. All four isolates exhibited acaricidal activity, with IQR3 and IQR5 showing the greatest efficacy. Corrected mortality reached 69.9% with IQR3 at the highest concentration after 72 h of exposure. The isolates showed no statistically significant repellent activity. Under greenhouse conditions (10⁸ CFU mL⁻¹), IQR3 was associated with the lowest infestation incidence (64%), the lowest infestation severity (13.3%) and the lowest adult density (1.8 adults leaf⁻¹); IQR5 showed a comparable trend. Overall, IQR3 and IQR5 represent promising rhizobacterial candidates for the sustainable management of T. urticae in tomato production. Further studies are needed to optimize their formulation, elucidate their mechanisms of action, and validate their efficacy under field conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant–Microorganisms Interactions)

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18 pages, 5737 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pollen Viability and Stigma Receptivity in Zephyranthes: Implications for Controlled Pollination

by Kornkanok Chamchusri, Bhornchai Harakotr, Panumart Rithichai and Yaowapha Jirakiattikul

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080068 - 3 Aug 2026

Abstract

Knowledge of pollen viability, pollen longevity, and stigma receptivity in Zephyranthes remains limited despite their importance for successful hybridization. Therefore, this study evaluated these reproductive traits in four Zephyranthes species (Z. traubii, Z. candida, Z. grandiflora, and Z. citrina [...] Read more.

Knowledge of pollen viability, pollen longevity, and stigma receptivity in Zephyranthes remains limited despite their importance for successful hybridization. Therefore, this study evaluated these reproductive traits in four Zephyranthes species (Z. traubii, Z. candida, Z. grandiflora, and Z. citrina) and one cultivar, ‘Pim Chomphu’, to provide baseline reproductive information for controlled pollination. Pollen viability was evaluated using tetrazolium staining at different collection times and storage conditions, whereas stigma receptivity was assessed using 6% hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), with reproductive outcomes following controlled self-pollination evaluated at the corresponding time points. Tetrazolium-based pollen viability exhibited taxon-specific temporal patterns; however, viability was generally high at 11:00, corresponding to 1 day after anthesis (1 DAA) in Z. traubii and the day of anthesis (0 DAA) in the remaining taxa. The combined protocol of desiccation followed by storage at −5 °C or −20 °C maintained tetrazolium-based pollen viability for up to 120 days. Although all taxa showed positive H₂O₂-based stigma responses across the evaluated time points, reproductive outcomes following self-pollination differed markedly among taxa. Z. citrina set fruit at all pollination times, whereas Z. candida failed to set fruit. The remaining taxa showed variable fruit set and seed germination depending on pollination timing. These results indicate that positive H₂O₂-based stigma responses should be interpreted as biochemical indicators of potential stigma receptivity and considered together with subsequent reproductive outcomes. These findings provide baseline reproductive information to support pollen management and controlled pollination in Zephyranthes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Reproduction)

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18 pages, 14305 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploratory SSR-Based Assessment of Genetic Diversity and Differentiation Among Four Wild Almond Populations in Kazakhstan

by Aidyn Orazov, Talant Samarkhanov, Anar Myrzagaliyeva, Moldir Yermagambetova, Sultan Kauanov, Yerlan Turuspekov, Serik Irsaliyev, Shynar Tustubayeva and Bauyrzhan Turalin

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080067 - 31 Jul 2026

Abstract

Wild almond relatives are valuable reservoirs of allelic variation for crop improvement and conservation, yet Kazakhstan’s wild-almond genetic resources remain poorly characterised. We conducted an exploratory SSR assessment of 80 putative individuals from four taxon-locality groups (20 per group), each representing one sampled [...] Read more.

Wild almond relatives are valuable reservoirs of allelic variation for crop improvement and conservation, yet Kazakhstan’s wild-almond genetic resources remain poorly characterised. We conducted an exploratory SSR assessment of 80 putative individuals from four taxon-locality groups (20 per group), each representing one sampled population: Prunus ledebouriana, P. tenella, P. petunnikowii, and P. spinosissima. Of 22 nuclear simple sequence repeat loci screened for cross-taxon transferability, 15 generated reproducible profiles and were retained; their even genome-wide distribution was not verified. Across the full dataset, the mean number of alleles was 3.55, the effective number of alleles was 2.62, expected heterozygosity (He) was 0.544, and 95.0% of loci were polymorphic. Missing genotypes ranged from 0.0% to 34.7% among groups, and six loci had at least 20% missing data. AMOVA attributed 76.5% of variation to within-group differences and 23.5% to among-group differences (PhiPT = 0.235, p = 0.001). PCoA, unbiased Nei distances, UPGMA, and descriptive Bayesian clustering separated the four sampled groups. A nine-locus sensitivity analysis that excluded the six high-missing loci retained P. spinosissima as the group with the highest mean He (0.699), whereas P. petunnikowii increased from 0.471 to 0.609. Thus, the low full-panel estimate for P. petunnikowii was not robust to missing data. Because taxon identity was fully confounded with locality and the marker panel was limited, the results are interpreted as a regional marker-transferability and methodological baseline rather than as species-wide or genome-wide inference. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Biochemistry and Genetics)

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39 pages, 3922 KB

Open AccessReview

What Defines a Plant Chemotype? Conceptual Boundaries, Chemical Criteria, and Methodological Challenges

by Mauricio Mateus Guimaraes-Silva, Matheus Chaves de Jesus, Dannily Augusto Rebouças, Lorraynne Oliveira-Souza Abreu, Claudete da Costa-Oliveira, Elaine de Lima de Jesus, Orlando Maia Barboza, Tamara do Nascimento da Silva, Philippe Barreto de Almeida, Renato Crespo Pereira, Davyson de Lima Moreira and Ygor Jessé Ramos

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080066 - 30 Jul 2026

Abstract

Plant chemical diversity constitutes an essential dimension of biodiversity, arising from interactions among genetic background, biosynthetic regulation, the environment, ontogeny, ecology, and evolutionary history. Although the term chemotype is widely used for distinguishable chemical patterns within a taxon, its meaning remains inconsistent across [...] Read more.

Plant chemical diversity constitutes an essential dimension of biodiversity, arising from interactions among genetic background, biosynthetic regulation, the environment, ontogeny, ecology, and evolutionary history. Although the term chemotype is widely used for distinguishable chemical patterns within a taxon, its meaning remains inconsistent across plant biology, phytochemistry, pharmacognosy, chemical ecology, and natural-product standardization. This conceptual review examines the historical development, conceptual boundaries, chemical criteria, biological significance, and methodological requirements of plant chemotypes. We define a chemotype as a distinguishable, recurrent, relatively stable, analytically reproducible, and biologically interpretable intraspecific chemical pattern expressed by individuals, populations, or lineages of the same taxon. Assignment should be based primarily on chemical discontinuity, diagnostic markers, recurrence, relative stability, and analytical reproducibility; ecological, functional, biosynthetic, and genetic information should be treated as supporting evidence when available. The framework applies to volatile and non-volatile systems, including essential oils, cannabinoids, alkaloids, phenolics, and glucosinolates, while recognizing that platform coverage, annotation confidence, and taxon-specific biology can alter the inferred groups. We distinguish chemotypes from chemical phenotypes, chemical ecotypes, chemical geotypes, chronotypes, chemovars, and chemophenetic groups and propose three evidence levels: putative, supported, and confirmed chemotypes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Ecology and Biodiversity)

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23 pages, 14309 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Salt and Drought Tolerance Classification in the Kazakhstan Cotton Collection Using Optimal Phenotypic Traits

by Aisulu Orken, Nurbek Zhumabay, Nazerke Amangeldyeva, Malika Ramazanova, Sabir Makhmadjanov, Laura Tokhetova, Shuga Manabayeva and Dilnur Tussipkan

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080065 - 28 Jul 2026

Abstract

In arid and semi-arid regions, salinity and drought limit cotton productivity. As the northernmost cotton-growing country, Kazakhstan often deals with these issues. The objective of this study was to classify salt- and drought-tolerant groups within the Kazakhstan cotton collection based on key phenotypic [...] Read more.

In arid and semi-arid regions, salinity and drought limit cotton productivity. As the northernmost cotton-growing country, Kazakhstan often deals with these issues. The objective of this study was to classify salt- and drought-tolerant groups within the Kazakhstan cotton collection based on key phenotypic traits. Fifty-six Gossypium hirsutum genotypes were evaluated under controlled conditions using NaCl and PEG-6000. Six morphophysiological traits, including germination rate, plant height, fresh weight, root dry weight, and relative water content, were analyzed. Increasing NaCl and PEG levels reduced vegetative growth, while germination remained relatively stable under moderate stress. Regression analysis identified 200 mM NaCl as the optimal salinity level for salt tolerance and 20–30% PEG as the optimal level for drought tolerance. Cluster analysis using membership function values grouped the genotypes into five tolerance categories. Eight lines including M-4016-6, M-4031-8, M-4014-6, M-4029-9, M-4016-7, M-4016-8, M-4020-2, and M-4016-4 exhibited high tolerance to both stresses. Additional lines exhibited combined tolerance, indicating strong breeding potential. Principal component analysis revealed an inverse relationship between salt and drought tolerance, suggesting stress-specific adaptation. This study is the first to report on the development of a classification system for salt and drought tolerance in the Kazakhstan Cotton Collection. The results demonstrate substantial genetic variability and highlight the potential for developing cotton cultivars adapted environments prone to stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Response to Stresses)

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25 pages, 2617 KB

Open AccessArticle

Regulation of Photomorphogenesis, Structural Quality, and Physiological Status in Sorrel (Rumex acetosa L.) Across LED Light Quality Treatments

by Hiju Yoo, Samuel Lee, Young Jin Choi, Yeong Sunwoo, Jeong Geun Lee, Siyeon Yoo, Ji Min Seo, Sunyoung Lee, Gyurim Kim, Eun Bin Cha, Sang Yong Nam and Jae Hwan Lee

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(8), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17080064 - 28 Jul 2026

Abstract

Sorrel (Rumex acetosa L.) is a promising leafy vegetable for controlled-environment production, but integrated information on its growth, structural quality, optical traits, and photochemical responses to light-emitting diode (LED) spectra remains limited. To our knowledge, this study provides the first systematic comparison [...] Read more.

Sorrel (Rumex acetosa L.) is a promising leafy vegetable for controlled-environment production, but integrated information on its growth, structural quality, optical traits, and photochemical responses to light-emitting diode (LED) spectra remains limited. To our knowledge, this study provides the first systematic comparison of five contrasting LED spectral conditions in sorrel using morphological, biomass, structural-quality, reflectance-based, and chlorophyll-fluorescence indicators. Plants were grown for six weeks under red light (RL), green light (GL), blue light (BL), purple-phyto light (PL) containing red, blue, and far-red components, or white light (WL) at a color temperature of 6500 K. Sorrel responses differed markedly among spectral environments and could not be explained by a single growth parameter. WL produced the highest mean shoot dry weight (505 mg), which was approximately 30.5% higher than that under PL (387 mg), although the difference between the two treatments was not statistically significant. WL also produced 46.5% greater leaf area than PL (50.1 versus 34.2 cm²) and showed the highest mean PI_ABS value (4.00). In contrast, PL showed the highest mean root dry weight (25.5 mg) and Dickson quality index (9.4), together with a relatively low shoot-to-root ratio (17.7) and top-heavy index (20.0), indicating a less shoot-biased structural pattern. BL restricted growth and leaf development and was associated with lower soil plant analysis development units, normalized difference vegetation index, photochemical reflectance index, F_v/F_m, and PI_ABS, indicating that BL alone may have limited suitability for sorrel cultivation under the present experimental conditions. Under the tested conditions, WL appeared more suitable for yield-oriented production, whereas PL may be considered when shoot–root structural balance is prioritized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology)

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