Search Results (464)

The existing trade-off between agricultural production and ecosystem services is widening with the intensification of agricultural systems. In this context, diversification can play a crucial role in enhancing agroecosystem multifunctionality, and in orchard systems it can also be achieved through the management of inter-row spaces via the ecological functions provided by sown and resident vegetation. Nowadays its contribution is not recognised. The study aims to compare the temporal dynamics of four cover crop mixes present in the inter-row spaces and assess their ecological functions using the Vegetation-based Ecological Functions Sustainability Index, and evaluate the relative influence of management, season, and year on cover crop performance. Total and relative coverage and species number were collected from 2022 to 2024. Non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis showed that vegetation composition varied across treatments, and cover crop management shaped plant community structure. It highlighted that the strongest difference was the contrast between grass cover (r = −0.95) and bare soil (r = 0.91). Permutational Multivariate Analysis of Variance on ecological functions indicated that sampling year (R² = 0.1822, F = 8.4874, p < 0.001). and season (R² = 0.1280, F = 5.9659, p < 0.001) had a significant impact on vegetation cover. Moreover, biodiversity effects hinge primarily on the ecological functions performed by species, rather than on their number. Overall, these findings highlight that the ecological contribution of inter-row vegetation depends more on the functional traits expressed by plant communities than on species richness alone. Furthermore, year and season strongly influence the dynamics of cover crops and resident vegetation, making multi-year monitoring essential to determine their persistence and the ecological functions they perform. Full article

Agroecosystems must maintain high productivity over time and contribute to restoring the biodiversity and functionality of soils while agroecosystems yield the food we eat; however, the diversity related to food and agriculture has been shrinking. With this systematic review, the narrative and evidence map synthesized existing evidence about how cereal-legume rotations (as a form of diversifying crop diversity) could improve the diversity and function of the plant and functional aspects of biodiversity while restoring the soil health and agroecosystem resilience. A PRISMA 2020 report has been created alongside this work. This evidence will be used to understand improvements in soil physical and biological traits, nutrient cycles, and biologically fixed N, regulated pests/diseases/weeds, productivity and yield stability, environmental efficiency, and outcomes. In addition, several pieces of evidence were included and explained concerning the N cycle in cereal-legume rotations. When used compared to monoculture cereal systems, cereal-legume rotations lead to improved soil structure, activity, and nutritional status (N fixing) and may decrease pests and disease; these conditions often promote a better harvest or lead to higher and/or more stable productivity. Crop residue-based SOC increases are generally moderate in duration and degree. The increase in microbial biomass occurred more quickly over the years. For the environment, cereal-legume rotations generally achieve a lower total environmental efficiency due to lower N fertilizer inputs (N fixing), which means a lower C footprint per ton of production of crops, yet this strategy can also cause some environmental consequences, such as increasing N₂O emissions (due to over N fixing), which cause global warming and nitrate leaching when N is fixed in excess, not coupled with crop requirements, creating pollution. The rotation is context-dependent, so each site-specific system needs to be analyzed to improve trade-offs to yield, productivity, and environmental conservation. Full article

The development of sustainable microbial inoculants for crop production requires strains with demonstrated plant growth-promoting performance and well-characterized functional potential. This study evaluated the effect of Priestia sp. RMT2NF4, isolated from the rice rhizosphere, on sweet corn (Zea mays L.) seed physiological quality and early seedling vigor, supported by whole-genome sequencing analysis. Seed treatment effects were evaluated using a between-paper germination assay under controlled conditions at 25 °C for 7 days. Seed treatment with RMT2NF4 significantly increased germination percentage, germination index, and seedling growth rate by 13.26%, 21.30%, and 23.71%, respectively (p < 0.05). Inoculated seedlings also exhibited significantly greater shoot length, while root length and abnormal seedling proportion showed numerical but non-significant improvements. Genomic analysis identified genes putatively associated with tryptophan biosynthesis, nutrient acquisition, and stress adaptation. The integration of phenotypic validation and genome-informed functional profiling highlights the potential of RMT2NF4 and provides a basis for further evaluation of RMT2NF4 as a candidate plant growth-promoting bacterium to support sustainable sweet corn production and reduce reliance on chemical inputs. Full article

The objective of this study was to determine the diversity and genetic structure of M. oleifera populations cultivated in Mexico through SilicoDArT markers. Seeds were collected from 14 populations in various states of the country. The seeds were germinated in greenhouse conditions. DNA was extracted from young leaves using a CTAB-based protocol. The extracted DNA was used to genotype each population with DArtseqTM technology. A total of 11,156 SilicoDArT markers were obtained, all of which were polymorphic. On average, the expected heterozygosity of the populations was 0.46, the number of effective alleles was 1.84 and the rareness was 280.53. Principal coordinate analysis and cluster analysis identified three clusters, with no clear association according to cultivation site. Genetic structure analysis determined three original populations (K = 3). Seven populations were assigned to the same ancestral group, six populations exhibited shared ancestries and one population displayed a distinct genetic background, suggesting anthropogenic management and exchange plant material among leaf producers. The identified genetic diversity and population structure constitute a basis for the conservation and management of Mexican moringa germplasm. Full article

Plant genetic resources are vital for crop improvement, ecological resilience, and agrobiodiversity conservation, making their characterization through morphological and cytogenetic methods essential for breeding and germplasm management. This study comparatively analyzed two herbaceous cultivars Hibiscus moscheutos cv. ‘Carousel Jolly Heart’ and cv. ‘Carousel Pink Passion’ and two woody cultivars, Hibiscus syriacus cv. ‘Sukim’ and cv. ‘Freedom’, to assess interspecific diversity and hybridization potential. Morphological assessments revealed notable differences in flower size and leaf shape between species, with ‘Carousel Pink Passion’ exhibiting the largest flower diameter (16.70 cm) and ‘Freedom’ exhibiting the smallest (10.20 cm). Chromosome analysis confirmed diploidy (2n = 38) in H. moscheutos and polyploidy (2n = 84) in H. syriacus, highlighting a fundamental genomic distinction between the two species. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) consistently identified two 5S rDNA loci across all cultivars; however, species-specific variation in 18S rDNA loci was detected with four loci in H. syriacus and six in H. moscheutos, suggesting divergent rDNA evolution and distinct genomic organization in the two species. Flow cytometry confirmed significant differences in nuclear DNA content corresponding to ploidy levels: ‘Carousel Jolly Heart’ and ‘Carousel Pink Passion’ measured 2.06 pg and 2.05 pg, respectively, while ‘Sukim’ and ‘Freedom’ measured 4.18 pg and 4.27 pg, respectively. Full article

The increasing demand for sustainable agricultural inputs has driven interest in biodegradable polymers from agro-industrial residues. Pineapple crown biomass (PCB), a widely available lignocellulosic waste, represents a promising feedstock for producing carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). However, the optimal pulping and bleaching conditions for CMC synthesis from this residue remain underexplored. Nevertheless, the combination of CMC derived from PCB with Bacillus subtilis as a seed coating agent for the bean cultivar has not yet been investigated. Here, we produced cellulosic pulps from PCB using a bioreactor, varying NaOH concentration (1–3%), pulping time (1.5–2.5 h), bleaching volume (55–75 mL) and time (60–120 min). The selected pulping condition (2% NaOH, 1.5 h) yielded pulp with high purity (83.9%) and crystallinity (76.35%). After bleaching (65 mL, 90 min), the material was suitable for CMC synthesis under two conditions: CMC1 and CMC2. CMC2 showed a higher degree of substitution (1.010) than CMC1 (0.620) but led to reduced seed germination (77.67%) due to excessive water retention and fungal growth. In contrast, CMC1, with or without B. subtilis, maintained high germination (91%) and significantly increased seedling length (21.30 cm). We conclude that PCB is a viable feedstock for CMC production, and CMC1 exhibits strong potential as an effective seed coating agent for sustainable agriculture. Full article

The durian seed borer, Mudaria stahlgretschae, is a major economic pest that has significantly impacted durian cultivation in Southeast Asia; however, comprehensive biological and ecological data for this species remain limited. This study employs an integrative taxonomic approach, combining morphological examination with molecular validation of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Phylogenetic analysis (Neighbor-Joining) confirmed that all collected specimens (n = 11) formed a distinct monophyletic clade within the genus Mudaria, showing a genetic identity of 95.75–96.85% with existing GenBank accessions, thereby confirming their identity as M. stahlgretschae. Systematic monitoring using light traps in Uttaradit Province revealed a clear seasonal phenology, with adult flight activity restricted to a five-month period from April to July 2025. Population density peaked in May (55.56%), synchronized with the mid-stages of durian fruit development. Furthermore, chemical profiling of female gland volatiles via GC-MS identified 40 compounds; among these, four putative sex pheromone candidates—1-Hexacosene, (Z)-7-Hexadecenal, 11-Octadecenal, and 2-Hexadecanol—were identified as key constituents based on their consistent detection across all replicates (n = 3), high relative abundance, and absence in male extracts or blank controls. These findings establish a critical foundation for developing synthetic pheromone lures and synchronized monitoring programs, offering a robust framework for the sustainable management of M. stahlgretschae in durian agroecosystems. Full article

An eco-friendly microemulsion biofungicide derived from Allamanda cathartica was developed for the control of papaya anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. The formulation was prepared by blending surfactants, carrier oil, and water and optimized using ternary phase diagrams to identify stable microemulsion systems. All selected formulations exhibited surface tension values ranging from 29 to 31 mN/m, while particle sizes ranged from 51.79 to 1801.05 nm. The optimized formulation, coded as AM8, consisted of 35% Allamanda concentrated liquid crude extract (ACLCE), 26% water, 13% alkyl polyglucoside surfactant, and 26% dimethylamide oil. Papaya fruits coated with the formulations showed significant reductions (p < 0.05) in anthracnose incidence caused by C. gloeosporioides. Control fruits treated with water showed 75% disease incidence, whereas fruits treated with benomyl showed 42% disease incidence. Disease incidence, severity, and disease index decreased with increasing formulation concentration, and fruits treated with the eight formulations at 10% concentration exhibited significantly lower disease incidence (0–17%) and disease index (0–17%), with disease severity consistently scored as zero. The Allamanda formulation demonstrated strong antifungal activity with EC₅₀ and EC₉₅ values of 1.839 and 7.067 mg/mL (w/v), respectively, at the 95% confidence level. The optimized formulation AM8 remained stable for up to one year and showed superior disease control performance compared with the conventional fungicide benomyl. In addition, the formulation maintained fruit quality by preserving firmness, peel color, and soluble solids concentration, thereby extending papaya shelf life up to 30 days without adversely affecting the natural ripening process. These findings demonstrate the potential of Allamanda-based microemulsion formulations as sustainable biofungicides for postharvest control of papaya anthracnose and provide a promising alternative to conventional synthetic fungicides. Full article

Background/Objectives: Coffea canephora (robusta) and Coffea liberica var. dewevrei (excelsa) cultivated in the Comoros islands represent understudied coffee varieties grown in a unique volcanic terroir. Despite their agricultural significance and potential bioactive value, no comprehensive biochemical or nutritional characterization of these Comorian coffees had previously been conducted. This study therefore aimed to provide the first integrated biochemical and nutritional characterization of both varieties and to evaluate the influence of the islands’ specific edaphoclimatic conditions on their chemical composition. Methods: An integrated analytical approach was employed, combining UV-Vis spectrophotometry, HPLC, ionomics, and FTIR-ATR spectroscopy to quantify polyphenols, flavonoids, caffeine, soluble sugars, antioxidant activity, mineral profiles, and macromolecular composition of green coffee beans from both species. Results: Robusta exhibited significantly higher levels of total polyphenols (121.79 ± 2.73 mg GAE/g), total flavonoids (29.43 ± 2.20 mg QE/g), caffeine (1.52% w/w), total soluble sugars (60.47 ± 3.37 mg GE/g), and antioxidant activity (64.97 ± 6.25 mM Trolox eq/g). Conversely, excelsa demonstrated a distinct mineral profile, with significantly higher concentrations of magnesium, calcium, sodium, zinc, and copper. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed distinct vibrational fingerprints between the two species, particularly in lipid and carbohydrate signatures. Conclusions: These findings position Comorian robusta as a potent source of antioxidants and stimulants, while excelsa offers a nutritionally balanced profile with nutraceutical potential, providing a scientific basis for valorizing both varieties as high-value niche products and contributing to the preservation of coffee agro-biodiversity. Full article

The use of fresh and dried figs has increased markedly in Tunisia in recent years, leading to a rise in public subsidies to support the further development of fig cultivation, especially in well-adapted production areas and with the adoption of innovative agronomic practices. This study aimed to carry out a comprehensive morphological and genetic characterization of fig germplasm from the Kesra region in north-western Tunisia, which is widely recognized for its long-standing tradition of fig production, in particular of the ‘Zidi’ cultivar. Field surveys and prospections enabled the identification of 26 distinct local fig cultivars, which were morphologically characterized and genotyped using 12 microsatellite (SSR) markers. All cultivars showed a specific allelic profile, including ‘Zidi’. The results provided valuable information for the conservation and management of Tunisian fig genetic resources. Moreover, the data will support the valorization of local fig production in the area through the establishment of the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) ‘Fig of Kesra’, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of traditional orchards and the preservation of local agrobiodiversity. Full article

While silage maize (Zea mays L.) remains the dominant biogas feedstock crop in Germany, concerns about landscape homogenization and ecological risks have stimulated the search for more diverse energy crops. This study evaluated twelve amaranth genotypes (GT01–12; Amaranthus spp.) in southwest Germany using field experiments combined with biomass composition analysis and laboratory batch biogas assays. In contrast to earlier studies focusing primarily on the cultivar ‘Baernkraft’ (GT04), a broader set of genetic material was examined. Significant differences among GTs were observed for plant density, dry matter yield (DMY), dry matter content (DMC), and biomass composition. The most productive genotypes (GT09 and GT11) exceeded 10 Mg ha⁻¹ DMY, clearly outperforming Baernkraft. However, even these GTs did not reach the ≈28% DMC threshold considered necessary for reliable ensiling. Lignin concentrations ranged from 4.7% to 7.2% of dry matter. Methane concentrations remained relatively stable (54–55%), resulting in an average methane yield of 1788 ± 441 m³ CH₄ ha⁻¹ (maximum: 2677.8 m³ CH₄ ha⁻¹) across all genotypes and harvest dates. These findings indicate that amaranth may contribute to diversification of biogas cropping systems, although its agronomic and substrate-related performance remains inferior to that of maize under the conditions studied. Full article

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) is a globally important legume valued for the high protein, oil, and carbohydrate content of its seeds. However, it is difficult to simultaneously optimize the content of these three macronutrients due to their negatively correlated metabolic pathways and complex quantitative inheritance patterns. In this study, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was conducted to elucidate the genetic architecture underlying the seed protein, oil, and carbohydrate content in 328 soybean accessions evaluated over two years using near-infrared spectroscopy. Significant negative correlations (r = −0.323 to −0.656, p < 0.001) were observed between the three traits, confirming the trade-off in carbon partitioning during seed development. The GWAS identified nine significant loci distributed across chromosomes 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 16, and 18 as stable quantitative trait loci (QTLs) regulating the three traits. Of these, three pleiotropic loci (qProOil.4, qProOil.16, and qOilCarb.6) were found to be associated with multiple seed compositional traits. Haplotype analysis revealed seven haplotype blocks with distinct phenotypic variation, indicating that they have the potential for use as trait-specific markers in marker-assisted selection. Functional annotation of the stable QTL regions identified 22 putative genes, among which five candidate genes, Glyma.06g201700, Glyma.08g281900, Glyma.09g164900, Glyma.13g155600, and Glyma.16g209800 were likely to be involved in carbon allocation, protein biosynthesis, lipid metabolism, and carbohydrate modification pathways based on their relative expression levels. Overall, this study enhances the understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanism controlling the composition of soybean seed and identifies promising genomic targets for precision breeding programs aimed at improving nutritional quality. Full article

Intraspecific phenotypic diversity in clonally propagated crops is frequently constrained by narrow domestication histories and the widespread use of a limited number of elite cultivars. In Stevia rebaudiana, commercial production has largely centred on cv. ‘Morita II’, raising concerns about reduced diversity and adaptive potential. This study characterised and structured phenotypic diversity within a segregating population derived from ‘Morita II’ under tropical field conditions. Eighty-six progeny-derived genotypes (clonally propagated) plus the commercial control (87 genotypes total) were evaluated using 25 agromorphological descriptors (qualitative and quantitative). Quantitative traits showed broad variation, including plant height (28.26–119.50 cm) and dry yield rate (0.94–28.55 g plant⁻¹). Multivariate analyses of mixed descriptors (PCA and hierarchical clustering based on Gower distance) identified plant architecture, vegetative growth, and phenology as the main sources of differentiation. The first two principal components explained 19.65% and 12.58% of total phenotypic variance, respectively (32.23% cumulative). Hierarchical clustering (UPGMA; dissimilarity cut-off = 0.25) resolved four phenotypic groups (GI–GIV) with sizes n = 3, 1, 66, and 17, respectively, enabling the definition of contrasting ideotype candidates based on recurrent trait combinations. These results provide a quantitative baseline for phenotypic structuring, prioritization of materials for further evaluation, and management of clonal stevia collections in tropical production systems. These ideotype candidates should be considered preliminary until validated across environments and linked to chemical quality traits. Full article

Agroecosystems comprise various components, including weeds, insects, and microorganisms, which interact with one another and play distinct roles in achieving sustainable agriculture. This balance is essential for both agricultural productivity and environmental preservation. This study explores the relationship between diversity and ecological functions of weed species and the entomofauna present in a pasture under rotational grazing and organic management in Otavalo, Ecuador. Sampling was conducted over an area of 2.5 hectares. We identified and counted weeds using 65 quadrats, each measuring 4 m². To capture insects, we employed chromatic traps, pitfall traps, and entomological nets. The results indicated a medium level of biodiversity, as shown by the Margalef index (4.85) and the Shannon–Wiener index (2.23), which also suggested a medium to dispersed evenness (Pielou_J = 0.23). Additionally, the ecosystem exhibited low species dominance, indicated by the Simpson index (D = 0.20). In total, we recorded 55 species belonging to 24 different botanical families. The most abundant families were Fabaceae (39%), Poaceae (21%), and Plantaginaceae (14.6%). For the entomofauna, a rich community was identified, comprising twelve orders and fifty families, with the order Diptera being predominant. Crucially, these findings demonstrate that agroecological practices foster a significant presence and diversity of both weed plants and associated insects, contributing to the agroecosystem’s resilience. We emphasize the role of diverse weed flora as refuges and resource providers for beneficial insects, such as those from the highly abundant Tachinidae family (Diptera), which are key natural regulators. This research highlights the importance of integrating weed conservation into pasture management for enhancing biodiversity, natural pest regulation, and promoting sustainable local transformation in highland agricultural landscapes. Full article