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16 pages, 2609 KiB  
Article
Comparative Life Cycle and Techno-Economic Assessment of Constructed Wetland, Microbial Fuel Cell, and Their Integration for Wastewater Treatment
by Nicholas Miwornunyuie, Samuel O. Alamu, Guozhu Mao, Nihed Benani, James Hunter and Gbekeloluwa Oguntimein
Clean Technol. 2025, 7(3), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/cleantechnol7030057 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 420
Abstract
This study systematically compares the environmental and economic performance of three wastewater treatment systems: constructed wetlands (CWs), microbial fuel cells (MFCs), and their integration (CW–MFC). Lab-scale units of each system were constructed using a multi-media matrix (gravel, zeolite, and granular activated carbon), composite [...] Read more.
This study systematically compares the environmental and economic performance of three wastewater treatment systems: constructed wetlands (CWs), microbial fuel cells (MFCs), and their integration (CW–MFC). Lab-scale units of each system were constructed using a multi-media matrix (gravel, zeolite, and granular activated carbon), composite native wetland species (Juncus effusus, Iris sp., and Typha angustifolia), carbon-based electrodes (graphite), and standard inoculum for CW and CW–MFC. The MFC system employed carbon-based electrodes and proton-exchange membrane. The experimental design included a parallel operation of all systems treating domestic wastewater under identical hydraulic and organic loading rates. Environmental impacts were quantified across construction and operational phases using life cycle assessment (LCA) with GaBi software 9.2, employing TRACI 2021 and ReCiPe 2016 methods, while techno-economic analysis (TEA) evaluated capital and operational costs. The key results indicate that CW demonstrates the lowest global warming potential (142.26 kg CO2-eq) due to its reliance on natural biological processes. The integrated CW–MFC system achieved enhanced pollutant removal (82.8%, 87.13%, 78.13%, and 90.3% for COD, NO3, TN, and TP) and bioenergy generation of 2.68 kWh, balancing environmental benefits with superior treatment efficiency. In contrast, the stand-alone MFC shows higher environmental burdens, primarily due to energy-intensive material requirements and fabrication processes. TEA results highlight CW as the most cost-effective solution (USD 627/m3), with CW–MFC emerging as a competitive alternative when considering environmental benefits and operational efficiencies (USD 718/m3). This study highlights the potential of hybrid systems, such as CW–MFC, to advance sustainable wastewater treatment technologies by minimizing environmental impacts and enhancing resource recovery, supporting their broader adoption in future water management strategies. Future research should focus on optimizing materials and energy use to improve scalability and feasibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Water and Wastewater Treatment Technologies)
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15 pages, 5847 KiB  
Article
Integrative Analysis Provides Insights into Genes Encoding LEA_5 Domain-Containing Proteins in Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus L.)
by Zhi Zou, Xiaowen Fu, Xiaoping Yi, Chunqiang Li, Jiaquan Huang and Yongguo Zhao
Plants 2025, 14(5), 762; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14050762 - 1 Mar 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 932
Abstract
LEA_5 domain-containing proteins constitute a small family of late embryogenesis-abundant proteins that are essential for seed desiccation tolerance and dormancy. However, their roles in non-seed storage organs such as underground tubers are largely unknown. This study presents the first genome-scale analysis of the [...] Read more.
LEA_5 domain-containing proteins constitute a small family of late embryogenesis-abundant proteins that are essential for seed desiccation tolerance and dormancy. However, their roles in non-seed storage organs such as underground tubers are largely unknown. This study presents the first genome-scale analysis of the LEA_5 family in tigernut (Cyperus esculentus L.), a Cyperaceae plant producing desiccation-tolerant tubers. Four LEA_5 genes identified from the tigernut genome are twice of two present in model plants Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa. A comparison of 86 members from 34 representative plant species revealed the monogenic origin and lineage-specific family evolution in Poales, which includes the Cyperaceae family. CeLEA5 genes belong to four out of five orthogroups identified in this study, i.e., LEA5a, LEA5b, LEA5c, and LEA5d. Whereas LEA5e is specific to eudicots, LEA5b and LEA5d appear to be Poales-specific and LEA5c is confined to families Cyperaceae and Juncaceae. Though no syntenic relationship was observed between CeLEA5 genes, comparative genomics analyses indicated that LEA5b and LEA5c are more likely to arise from LEA5a via whole-genome duplication. Additionally, local duplication, especially tandem duplication, also played a role in the family expansion in Juncus effuses, Joinvillea ascendens, and most Poaceae plants examined in this study. Structural variation (e.g., fragment insertion) and expression divergence of LEA_5 genes were also observed. Whereas LEA_5 genes in A. thaliana, O. sativa, and Zea mays were shown to be preferentially expressed in seeds/embryos, CeLEA5 genes have evolved to be predominantly expressed in tubers, exhibiting seed desiccation-like accumulation during tuber maturation. Moreover, CeLEA5 orthologs in C. rotundus showed weak expression in various stages of tuber development, which may explain the difference in tuber desiccation tolerance between these two close species. These findings highlight the lineage-specific evolution of the LEA_5 family, which facilitates further functional analysis and genetic improvement in tigernut and other species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tempo and Mode of Diversification in Plant Evolution)
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21 pages, 2663 KiB  
Article
The Phytoremediation of Arsenic-Contaminated Waste by Poa labillardieri, Juncus pauciflorus, and Rytidosperma caespitosum
by Feizia Huslina, Leadin S. Khudur, Julie A. Besedin, Kamrun Nahar, Kalpit Shah, Aravind Surapaneni, Pacian Netherway and Andrew S. Ball
Environments 2025, 12(2), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12020060 - 10 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 954
Abstract
Phytoremediation represents a potentially effective and environmentally friendly technology to remediate arsenic (As) in mine waste soils. However, soil amendments are often required to improve phytoremediation due to depleted nutrients in mine waste. This study aims to assess the effect of biosolids biochar, [...] Read more.
Phytoremediation represents a potentially effective and environmentally friendly technology to remediate arsenic (As) in mine waste soils. However, soil amendments are often required to improve phytoremediation due to depleted nutrients in mine waste. This study aims to assess the effect of biosolids biochar, applied at different rates (0%, 5%, and 10%) on As phytoremediation using three plant species: Poa labillardieri, Rytidosperma caespitosum, and Juncus pauciflorus. This study was conducted in a replicated greenhouse pot study using soil from an abandoned mine site. Dry plant biomass, As concentration in plants and soil, and soil microbial abundance were investigated. Juncus pauciflorus produced eight times more root and shoot biomass than R. caespitosum in soils amended with 10% biochar. The highest As uptake was also observed in J. pauciflorus grown in soils amended with 10% biochar (7.10 mg/plant), while R. caespitosum had the lowest As uptake in soils without biochar (0.16 mg/plant). In soils amended with 10% biochar, the total bacterial community decreased to approximately 8.50 log10 copies/g, compared to the initial soil (9.05 log10 copies/g), while the number of gene copies of the nifH gene increased, suggesting the importance of nitrogen-fixing bacteria to promote plant growth. Taguchi analysis confirmed that plant species was the key factor for As phytoremediation, followed by biochar application dose. This study showed that J. pauciflorus and the addition of 10% biochar was the best treatment for remediating As-contaminated mine waste, offering the potential for use commercially. Moreover, the utilisation of biochar derived from biosolids as a soil amendment for enhancing phytoremediation represents good circular economy practice to manage excessive biosolids production. Full article
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37 pages, 2893 KiB  
Systematic Review
Planting for the Urban Rain—Vegetation in Urban Bioretention Systems for Stormwater Management under Temperate Climate Conditions—A Systematic Review
by Daniela Corduan and Norbert Kühn
Sustainability 2024, 16(20), 8861; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16208861 - 13 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2083
Abstract
Weather extremes such as heavy rainfall and long periods of drought brought about by climate change put a strain on the environment and people. Cities can counter these weather extremes with blue-green infrastructure, usually focusing on plant-based solutions. The ecosystem services of plants [...] Read more.
Weather extremes such as heavy rainfall and long periods of drought brought about by climate change put a strain on the environment and people. Cities can counter these weather extremes with blue-green infrastructure, usually focusing on plant-based solutions. The ecosystem services of plants offer added value to these systems. Bioretention systems are a central element of rainwater management, and pioneering research into the role of vegetation in bioretention systems has taken place in the USA and Australia. There are comparatively few publications from Europe. A systematic literature search was carried out in Web of Science using the PRISMA model. A search was made for articles that investigated the use of plants in bioretention systems in order to obtain information on practices and their use in the temperate climate of Central Europe. A strength of this review is the compilation of all species used and their reported vitality. A total of 391 taxa were described in the journals. For almost all plant species, their vitality, performance, or function in bioretention systems was only documented once. Only Carex appressa, Juncus effusus, and Panicum virgatum were examined multiple times. Of particular importance are the functional characteristics observed, which determine the survival of the plants and their ecosystem services for this application. An understanding of functional traits can be of particular assistance in selecting the right plants to optimize stormwater management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Urban Green Infrastructure for Climate-Proof and Healthy Cities)
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20 pages, 4125 KiB  
Article
Investigation of Juncus and Iris Plant Potential—Two Native Serbian Species for Utilization in Nature-Based Solutions towards Improving the Quality of Water Contaminated with Zinc and Supporting Biodiversity
by Amela Greksa, Ivana Mihajlović, Mirjana Ljubojević, Boško Blagojević, Mirjana I. Vijuk, Sanja Podunavac-Kuzmanović, Strahinja Kovačević and Mirna P. Štrbac
Sustainability 2024, 16(15), 6467; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156467 - 28 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2270
Abstract
The benefits of nature-based solutions to address the climate and biodiversity challenges have become widely acknowledged. In numerous ways, nature-based solutions align with the Sustainable Development Goals. Serbia, like many other countries, faces many negative impacts of climate change crises. In order to [...] Read more.
The benefits of nature-based solutions to address the climate and biodiversity challenges have become widely acknowledged. In numerous ways, nature-based solutions align with the Sustainable Development Goals. Serbia, like many other countries, faces many negative impacts of climate change crises. In order to meet sustainable development goals linked to water pollution and biodiversity, we investigated the potential of two plants, namely, Iris pseudocorus L. and Juncus effusus L., and tested for zinc reduction, previously found as an emerging contaminant of urban waters in Serbia. We focused on the investigation of native Serbian plants, that are reported as highly valuable and endangered. Results confirmed that both plant species have high accumulation capacity for Zn uptake, whereas growth and resistance were higher for Juncus effusus L. plants. While the concentration of zinc in Iris plants ranged from 45.85 mg/L to 193.05 mg/L, the concentration found in Juncus plants ranged from 36.2 mg/L to 264.59 mg/L for leaves and 53.20 mg/L for roots. This study contributes to the support for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Serbia within biodiversity conservation and sustainable water management, by providing information of plant species that can be included in future sustainable nature-based solutions projects, like bioretention systems and constructed wetlands. Full article
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17 pages, 320 KiB  
Review
Neuroprotective and Mental Health Benefits of Salt-Tolerant Plants: A Comprehensive Review of Traditional Uses and Biological Properties
by Maria João Rodrigues, Catarina Guerreiro Pereira and Luísa Custódio
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5534; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135534 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 2488
Abstract
This study undertakes a thorough review of the ethnomedicinal properties of salt-tolerant plants and their potential to treat neurological disorders and enhance mental health. Aimed at bridging the gap between historical knowledge and contemporary scientific validation, our research meticulously evaluates both the traditional [...] Read more.
This study undertakes a thorough review of the ethnomedicinal properties of salt-tolerant plants and their potential to treat neurological disorders and enhance mental health. Aimed at bridging the gap between historical knowledge and contemporary scientific validation, our research meticulously evaluates both the traditional uses and the existing scientific evidence supporting the neuroprotective effects of these plants, leveraging in vitro and in vivo experimental findings. Through a comprehensive search of articles from 2001 to December 2023 across scientific databases, we identified sixteen species across nine plant families with demonstrated in vitro neuroprotective properties. Among these, the Chenopodiaceae and Juncaceae families emerged as the most represented, including plants such as Salicornia sp., Juncus sp., and Limonium sp., primarily recognized for their cholinesterase inhibitory activity. However, a notable disparity exists between traditional applications and scientific examination, with only six species undergoing in vivo testing. This discrepancy underscores the imperative for future research to delve deeper into validating traditional uses and elucidating the mechanisms underlying neuroprotection. Our findings highlight the need for research on salt-tolerant plants traditionally used for neurological benefits. Key steps include systematic screening, identification of active compounds through bioassay-guided fractionation, and in vivo testing. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern pharmacology, while emphasizing sustainable and ethical approaches, is essential for advancing neuroprotective drug discovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Sources and Applications)
18 pages, 1747 KiB  
Article
Low Resource Competition, Availability of Nutrients and Water Level Fluctuations Facilitate Invasions of Australian Swamp Stonecrop (Crassula helmsii)
by Hein H. van Kleef, Janneke M. M. van der Loop and Laura S. van Veenhuisen
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030172 - 7 Mar 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1674
Abstract
Australian swamp stonecrop (Crassula helmsii (Kirk) Cockayne) is invasive in Western Europe. Its small size and high potential for regeneration make it difficult to eliminate. Short-term experiments have demonstrated that the growth of C. helmsii depends on nutrient availability and resource competition. [...] Read more.
Australian swamp stonecrop (Crassula helmsii (Kirk) Cockayne) is invasive in Western Europe. Its small size and high potential for regeneration make it difficult to eliminate. Short-term experiments have demonstrated that the growth of C. helmsii depends on nutrient availability and resource competition. In order to confirm those mechanisms in the field, we studied the abundance of C. helmsii in Northern Europe over a longer period of time in relation to nutrient availability and co-occurring plant communities and plant species. C. helmsii impacted native species mainly by limiting their abundance. The native plant species present indicated that previous or periodic elevated nutrient availability were likely responsible for the proliferation of C. helmsii. When growing in submerged conditions, the dominance of C. helmsii depended on a high availability of CO2. A series of exceptionally dry summers allowed C. helmsii to increase in cover due to weakened biotic resistance and a loss of carbon limitation. Only Littorella uniflora (L.) Asch. and Juncus effusus L. were able to remain dominant and continue to provide biotic resistance. Based on our findings, minimizing nutrient (C and N) availability and optimizing hydrology provides native species with stable growth conditions. This optimizes resource competition and may prevent the proliferation of C. helmsii. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Alien Species and Their Invasion Processes)
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18 pages, 583 KiB  
Article
Screening of Phytochemical, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant Properties of Juncus acutus from Northeastern Morocco
by Yousra Hammouti, Amine Elbouzidi, Mohamed Taibi, Reda Bellaouchi, El Hassania Loukili, Mohamed Bouhrim, Omar M. Noman, Ramzi A. Mothana, Mansour N. Ibrahim, Abdeslam Asehraou, Bouchra El Guerrouj and Mohamed Addi
Life 2023, 13(11), 2135; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13112135 - 29 Oct 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2410
Abstract
Juncus acutus, acknowledged through its indigenous nomenclature “samar”, is part of the Juncaceae taxonomic lineage, bearing considerable import as a botanical reservoir harboring conceivable therapeutic attributes. Its historical precedence in traditional curative methodologies for the alleviation of infections and inflammatory conditions is [...] Read more.
Juncus acutus, acknowledged through its indigenous nomenclature “samar”, is part of the Juncaceae taxonomic lineage, bearing considerable import as a botanical reservoir harboring conceivable therapeutic attributes. Its historical precedence in traditional curative methodologies for the alleviation of infections and inflammatory conditions is notable. In the purview of Eastern traditional medicine, Juncus species seeds find application for their remedial efficacy in addressing diarrhea, while the botanical fruits are subjected to infusion processes targeting the attenuation of symptoms associated with cold manifestations. The primary objective of this study was to unravel the phytochemical composition of distinct constituents within J. acutus, specifically leaves (JALE) and roots (JARE), originating from the indigenous expanse of the Nador region in northeastern Morocco. The extraction of plant constituents was executed utilizing an ethanol-based extraction protocol. The subsequent elucidation of chemical constituents embedded within the extracts was accomplished employing analytical techniques based on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). For the purpose of in vitro antioxidant evaluation, a dual approach was adopted, encompassing the radical scavenging technique employing 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assay. The acquired empirical data showcase substantial radical scavenging efficacy and pronounced relative antioxidant activity. Specifically, the DPPH and TAC methods yielded values of 483.45 ± 4.07 µg/mL and 54.59 ± 2.44 µg of ascorbic acid (AA)/mL, respectively, for the leaf extracts. Correspondingly, the root extracts demonstrated values of 297.03 ± 43.3 µg/mL and 65.615 ± 0.54 µg of AA/mL for the DPPH and TAC methods. In the realm of antimicrobial evaluation, the assessment of effects was undertaken through the agar well diffusion technique. The minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration, and minimum fungicidal concentration were determined for each extract. The inhibitory influence of the ethanol extracts was observed across bacterial strains including Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with the notable exception of Escherichia coli. However, fungal strains such as Candida glabrata and Rhodotorula glutinis exhibited comparatively lower resistance, whereas Aspergillus niger and Penicillium digitatum exhibited heightened resistance, evincing negligible antifungal activity. An anticipatory computational assessment of pharmacokinetic parameters was conducted, complemented by the application of the Pro-tox II web tool to delineate the potential toxicity profile of compounds intrinsic to the studied extracts. The culmination of these endeavors underpins the conceivable prospects of the investigated extracts as promising candidates for oral medicinal applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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15 pages, 3506 KiB  
Article
Relationship among Plant Functional Groups, Soil, and Moisture as Basis for Wetland Conservation
by Fevziye Aslan, Ricardo Mata-González, David Eduardo Prado-Tarango, Matthew Hovland, Jenessa Stemke and Carlos G. Ochoa
Sustainability 2023, 15(19), 14377; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914377 - 29 Sep 2023
Viewed by 1908
Abstract
This study characterized the relationship between plant species, soil, and moisture dynamics in the Willamette Valley (Oregon, USA) to obtain a base framework for wetland conservation and restoration. We identified 24 dominant plant species, including the exotic invasive Dipsacus fullonum, distributed throughout [...] Read more.
This study characterized the relationship between plant species, soil, and moisture dynamics in the Willamette Valley (Oregon, USA) to obtain a base framework for wetland conservation and restoration. We identified 24 dominant plant species, including the exotic invasive Dipsacus fullonum, distributed throughout the wetland. Plant community analysis indicated that (1) soil moisture during the dry season (August to October) and (2) soil bulk density were the major abiotic drivers of plant community structure. Water potential measurements confirmed the community analysis. Juncus (rush) species appeared to be more tolerant to drought than other typical wetland species. Therefore, dryer conditions due to climate change or water diversion may favor rushes’ persistence. We also found that the dominance of D. fullonum may also negatively affect the native plant species’ survival, which highlights the need for proper management practices. To prevent further vegetation deterioration in sensitive wetland areas, we recommend avoiding hydric diversions to maintain the water supply, exploring manners of controlling invasive species, and preventing livestock grazing. The results of this study contribute to foundational and practical knowledge concerning the influence of soil conditions and moisture availability on the physiological response and distribution of wetland plant species that is required for conservation and management. Full article
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20 pages, 3230 KiB  
Article
Luteolin Isolated from Juncus acutus L., a Potential Remedy for Human Coronavirus 229E
by Asma Hakem, Lowiese Desmarets, Ramla Sahli, Rawen Ben Malek, Charline Camuzet, Nathan François, Gabriel Lefèvre, Jennifer Samaillie, Sophie Moureu, Sevser Sahpaz, Sandrine Belouzard, Riadh Ksouri, Karin Séron and Céline Rivière
Molecules 2023, 28(11), 4263; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28114263 - 23 May 2023
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2840
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, addressed the lack of specific antiviral drugs against coronaviruses. In this study, bioguided fractionation performed on both ethyl acetate and aqueous sub-extracts of Juncus acutus stems led to identifying luteolin as a highly active antiviral molecule against [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, addressed the lack of specific antiviral drugs against coronaviruses. In this study, bioguided fractionation performed on both ethyl acetate and aqueous sub-extracts of Juncus acutus stems led to identifying luteolin as a highly active antiviral molecule against human coronavirus HCoV-229E. The apolar sub-extract (CH2Cl2) containing phenanthrene derivatives did not show antiviral activity against this coronavirus. Infection tests on Huh-7 cells, expressing or not the cellular protease TMPRSS2, using luciferase reporter virus HCoV-229E-Luc showed that luteolin exhibited a dose-dependent inhibition of infection. Respective IC50 values of 1.77 µM and 1.95 µM were determined. Under its glycosylated form (luteolin-7-O-glucoside), luteolin was inactive against HCoV-229E. Time of addition assay showed that utmost anti-HCoV-229E activity of luteolin was achieved when added at the post-inoculation step, indicating that luteolin acts as an inhibitor of the replication step of HCoV-229E. Unfortunately, no obvious antiviral activity for luteolin was found against SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV in this study. In conclusion, luteolin isolated from Juncus acutus is a new inhibitor of alphacoronavirus HCoV-229E. Full article
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20 pages, 2768 KiB  
Article
New Data on Native and Alien Vascular Flora of Sicily (Italy): New Findings and Updates
by Salvatore Cambria, Dario Azzaro, Orazio Caldarella, Michele Aleo, Giuseppe Bazan, Riccardo Guarino, Giancarlo Torre, Antonia Egidia Cristaudo, Vincenzo Ilardi, Alfonso La Rosa, Valentina Lucia Astrid Laface, Fabio Luchino, Francesco Mascia, Pietro Minissale, Saverio Sciandrello, Luca Tosetto and Gianmarco Tavilla
Plants 2023, 12(9), 1743; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12091743 - 23 Apr 2023
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3696
Abstract
In this paper, based on fieldwork and herbaria surveys, new data concerning the presence of 32 native and alien vascular species for Sicily (Italy) are provided. Among the native species, the occurrence of the following taxa is reported for the first time or [...] Read more.
In this paper, based on fieldwork and herbaria surveys, new data concerning the presence of 32 native and alien vascular species for Sicily (Italy) are provided. Among the native species, the occurrence of the following taxa is reported for the first time or confirmed after many decades of non-observation: Aira multiculmis, Arum maculatum, Carex flacca subsp. flacca, Mentha longifolia, Oxybasis chenopodioides, Najas minor and Xiphion junceum. Furthermore, we document the presence of three native species (Cornus mas, Juncus foliosus and Limonium avei) that, despite being repeatedly observed in Sicily and reported in the literature, are inexplicably omitted by the most recent authoritative checklists regarding the flora of Italy. Finally, fifteen alien species new to Sicily (including one new to Europe, i.e., Pyrus betulifolia) are reported and seven poorly documented allochthonous taxa are confirmed for the island, and for two of them, a status change is proposed. These new or confirmed records allow us to better define the European and national distribution of the targeted taxa and offer new insights on the native and alien flora of Sicily. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Management of Invasive Plants)
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34 pages, 2361 KiB  
Article
Response to Hypersalinity of Four Halophytes Growing in Hydroponic Floating Systems: Prospects in the Phytomanagement of High Saline Wastewaters and Extreme Environments
by Meri Barbafieri, Francesca Bretzel, Andrea Scartazza, Daniela Di Baccio, Irene Rosellini, Martina Grifoni, Roberto Pini, Alice Clementi and Elisabetta Franchi
Plants 2023, 12(9), 1737; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12091737 - 22 Apr 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2338
Abstract
Hypersaline environments occur naturally worldwide in arid and semiarid regions or in artificial areas where the discharge of highly saline wastewaters, such as produced water (PW) from oil and gas industrial setups, has concentrated salt (NaCl). Halophytes can tolerate high NaCl concentrations by [...] Read more.
Hypersaline environments occur naturally worldwide in arid and semiarid regions or in artificial areas where the discharge of highly saline wastewaters, such as produced water (PW) from oil and gas industrial setups, has concentrated salt (NaCl). Halophytes can tolerate high NaCl concentrations by adopting ion extrusion and inclusion mechanisms at cell, tissue, and organ levels; however, there is still much that is not clear in the response of these plants to salinity and completely unknown issues in hypersaline conditions. Mechanisms of tolerance to saline and hypersaline conditions of four different halophytes (Suaeda fruticosa (L.) Forssk, Halocnemum strobilaceum (Pall.) M. Bieb., Juncus maritimus Lam. and Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steudel) were assessed by analysing growth, chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthetic pigment parameters, nutrients, and sodium (Na) uptake and distribution in different organs. Plants were exposed to high saline (257 mM or 15 g L−1 NaCl) and extremely high or hypersaline (514, 856, and 1712 mM or 30, 50, and 100 g L−1 NaCl) salt concentrations in a hydroponic floating culture system for 28 days. The two dicotyledonous S. fruticosa and H. strobilaceum resulted in greater tolerance to hypersaline concentrations than the two monocotyledonous species J. maritimus and P. australis. Plant biomass and major cation (K, Ca, and Mg) distributions among above- and below-ground organs evidenced the osmoprotectant roles of K in the leaves of S. fruticosa, and of Ca and Mg in the leaves and stem of H. strobilaceum. In J. maritimus and P. australis the rhizome modulated the reduced uptake and translocation of nutrients and Na to shoot with increasing salinity levels. S. fruticosa and H. strobilaceum absorbed and accumulated elevated Na amounts in the aerial parts at all the NaCl doses tested, with high bioaccumulation (from 0.5 to 8.3) and translocation (1.7–16.2) factors. In the two monocotyledons, Na increased in the root and rhizome with the increasing concentration of external NaCl, dramatically reducing the growth in J. maritimus at both 50 and 100 g L−1 NaCl and compromising the survival of P. australis at 30 g L−1 NaCl and over after two weeks of treatment. Full article
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13 pages, 2793 KiB  
Article
The Role of Estuarine Wetlands (Saltmarshes) in Sediment Microplastics Retention
by C. Marisa R. Almeida, Iraide Sáez-Zamacona, Diogo M. Silva, Sabrina M. Rodrigues, Rúben Pereira and Sandra Ramos
Water 2023, 15(7), 1382; https://doi.org/10.3390/w15071382 - 3 Apr 2023
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 4133
Abstract
Concerns regarding plastic pollution, especially microplastics, have increased, as they can be present in different environmental compartments, including estuarine areas and saltmarshes. Although saltmarshes are highly vulnerable to different human activities and pressures, they have the ability to trap/retain contaminants in their vegetated [...] Read more.
Concerns regarding plastic pollution, especially microplastics, have increased, as they can be present in different environmental compartments, including estuarine areas and saltmarshes. Although saltmarshes are highly vulnerable to different human activities and pressures, they have the ability to trap/retain contaminants in their vegetated sediments. However, there is still little information regarding the role of saltmarshes in microplastic retention. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the capability of an estuarine saltmarsh to trap microplastics by comparing microplastic concentrations in vegetated (saltmarsh) and non-vegetated sediments. Microplastic content from sediment (vegetated and non-vegetated) samples collected at different sampling sites in Lima River estuary was estimated using previously optimised extraction protocols, and the observed particles were then characterised accordingly to their size, colour, shape, and polymer (by FTIR). Water samples were also collected and analysed for their microplastics content to complement MPs characterisation within the estuarine area. Microplastics were detected in all sediment samples, with fibres being the most common type of microplastic found, followed by fragments/particles. Overall, vegetated sediments, especially those of saltmarsh species Juncus maritimus, presented a higher number of plastic items. These results indicated that microplastics tend to be trapped in vegetated sediments, supporting the fact that saltmarshes have a significant influence on the transport, distribution, and accumulation of MPs in estuarine areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microplastics in Wetlands: Occurrence, Fate and Interactions)
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17 pages, 1223 KiB  
Article
Seed Size, Not Dispersal Syndrome, Determines Potential for Spread of Ricefield Weeds by Gulls
by Juan Manuel Peralta-Sánchez, Albán Ansotegui, Francisco Hortas, Stella Redón, Víctor Martín-Vélez, Andy J. Green, María J. Navarro-Ramos, Adam Lovas-Kiss and Marta I. Sánchez
Plants 2023, 12(7), 1470; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12071470 - 27 Mar 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3535
Abstract
Recent field data suggest that migratory gulls disperse many rice field weeds by gut passage (endozoochory), most of which are dry fruited and widely assumed to have no long-distance dispersal mechanisms, except via human activity. We investigated this mechanism with a feeding experiment, [...] Read more.
Recent field data suggest that migratory gulls disperse many rice field weeds by gut passage (endozoochory), most of which are dry fruited and widely assumed to have no long-distance dispersal mechanisms, except via human activity. We investigated this mechanism with a feeding experiment, in which seeds of five common rice field weeds (in order of increasing seed size: Juncus bufonius, Cyperus difformis, Polypogon monspeliensis, Amaranthus retroflexus, and the fleshy-fruited Solanum nigrum) were fed to seven individuals of lesser black-backed gulls Larus fuscus held in captivity. We quantified seed survival after collecting faeces at intervals for 33 h after ingestion, then extracting intact seeds and running germination tests, which were also conducted for control seeds. All five species showed high seed survival after gut passage, of >70%. Gut retention times averaged 2–4 h, but maxima exceeded 23 h for all species. Germinability after gut passage was 16–54%, and gut passage accelerated germination in J. bufonius and S. nigrum, but slowed it down in the other species. All species had lower germinability after gut passage compared to control seeds (likely due to stratification prior to the experiment), but the loss of germinability was higher in smaller seeds. There was no evidence that the different dispersal syndromes assigned to the five species (endozoochory, epizoochory or barochory) had any influence on our results. In contrast, mean gut retention time was strongly and positively related to seed size, likely because small seeds pass more quickly from the gizzard into the intestines. Non-classical endozoochory of dry-fruited seeds by waterbirds is a major but overlooked mechanism for potential long-distance dispersal, and more research into this process is likely essential for effective weed management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Dispersal Ecology)
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15 pages, 2521 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Two Organic Soil Amendments, Biochar and Insect Frass Fertilizer, on Shoot Growth of Cereal Seedlings
by Aaron Carroll, Mark Fitzpatrick and Simon Hodge
Plants 2023, 12(5), 1071; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12051071 - 27 Feb 2023
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4731
Abstract
To mitigate the environmental harm associated with high-input agriculture, arable farmers are increasingly required to maintain productivity while reducing inputs of synthetic fertilizers. Thus, a diverse range of organic products are now being investigated in terms of their value as alternative fertilizers and [...] Read more.
To mitigate the environmental harm associated with high-input agriculture, arable farmers are increasingly required to maintain productivity while reducing inputs of synthetic fertilizers. Thus, a diverse range of organic products are now being investigated in terms of their value as alternative fertilizers and soil amendments. This study used a series of glasshouse trials to investigate the effects of an insect frass-based fertilizer derived from black soldier fly waste [HexaFrass™, Meath, Ireland] and biochar on four cereals grown in Ireland (barley, oats, triticale, spelt) as animal feed and for human consumption. In general, the application of low quantities of HexaFrass™ resulted in significant increases in shoot growth in all four cereal species, along with increased foliage concentrations of NPK and SPAD levels (a measure of chlorophyll density). These positive effects of HexaFrass™ on shoot growth were observed, however, only when a potting mix with low basal nutrients was used. Additionally, excessive application of HexaFrass™ resulted in reduced shoot growth and, in some cases, seedling mortality. The application of finely ground or crushed biochar produced from four different feedstocks (Ulex, Juncus, woodchip, olive stone) had no consistent positive or negative effects on cereal shoot growth. Overall, our results indicate that insect frass-based fertilizers have good potential in low-input, organic, or regenerative cereal production systems. Based on our results, biochar appears to have less potential as a plant growth promoting product, but could be used as a tool for lowering whole-farm carbon budgets by providing a simplistic means of storing carbon in farm soils. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant–Soil Interactions)
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