Search Results (366)

Swietenia macrophylla King, commonly known as Brazilian mahogany, is a high-value neotropical tree species currently threatened due to intensive logging in previous decades. Technologies aimed at clonal production are essential for this species’ conservation and sustainable use at times of climate change and increasing demand for ecological restoration. The aim of the present study is to develop a low-cost protocol for mahogany clonal propagation through mini-cutting by assessing clonal mini-hedge nutrition, vegetative propagule type and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) application effects on rooting and early clone growth. The experiment was conducted in nursery under controlled conditions based on using basal and apical mini-cuttings rooted in a low-cost mini-greenhouse subjected to three nutrient solution concentrations (50%, 100%, and 200%) and five IBA doses (0–8000 ppm). The mini-cutting technique proved efficient and led to over 90% survival after the hardening phase. The 200% nutrient solution concentration allowed balanced performance between cutting types and optimized clonal yield. IBA concentration at 4000 ppm accounted for higher root percentages at the bottom of the tube and the trend towards higher dry biomass production at 160 days. The results highlighted mini-cutting’s potential as a viable mahogany conservation and sustainable production technique. It also supported tropical forestry sector adaptation to challenges posed by climate change. Full article

With the growth of the plant-based food sector, increasing amounts of by-products are generated. Sea buckthorn pomace (SBP), a by-product of juice and other manufacturing products, is rich in bioactive compounds such as phenolics, oligosaccharides, proteins, and dietary fiber. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of modification methods, such as enzymatic hydrolysis and supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SFE-CO₂), on the chemical composition and technological properties of SBP. SBP and SBP obtained after SFE-CO₂ (SBP-CO₂) were enzymatically modified using Pectinex^® Ultra Tropical, Viscozyme^® L, and Celluclast^® 1.5 L (Novozyme A/S, Bagsværd, Denmark). The SBP’s main constituent was insoluble dietary fiber (IDF), followed by crude proteins and lipids (respectively, 58.7, 21.1 and 12.6 g/100 in d.m.). SFE-CO₂ reduced the lipid content (by 85.7%) in the pomace while increasing protein and TDF content. Enzymatic hydrolysis decreased the content of both soluble dietary fiber (SDF) and IDF, and increased the content of mono- and oligosaccharides as well as free phenolics, depending on the commercial enzyme preparation used in SBP and SBP-CO₂ samples. Celluclast^® 1.5 L was the most effective in hydrolyzing IDF, while Viscozyme^® L and Pectinex^® Ultra Tropical were the most effective in degrading SDF. Enzymatic treatment improved water swelling capacity, water retention capacity, water solubility index, oil retention capacity of SBP and SBP-CO₂; however, it did not have a significant effect on the stability of the emulsions. Modification of SBP by SFE-CO₂ effectively increased WSC and WSI, however it reduced WRC. These findings highlight the potential of targeted modifications to enhance the nutritional and technological properties of SBP for functional food applications. Full article

Lychee (Lychee chinensis Sonn.) is a tropical fruit highly appreciated for its vivid red color, sweet flavor, and nutritional properties. However, it is highly perishable, with postharvest losses often due to oxidative browning and dehydration. This study evaluated the organic olive oil coating (OC), a natural lipidic system with the potential to act as a precursor for organogel development, combined with polyamide/polyethylene (PA/PE) packaging under passive modified atmosphere. Fruits were harvested at commercial maturity and divided into two groups: OC-treated and untreated control (CTR). Both groups were stored at 5 ± 1 °C and 90 ± 5% relative humidity and analyzed on days 0, 3, 6, and 9. The OC-treated fruits showed significantly better retention of physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory qualities. The coating reduced oxidative stress and enzymatic browning, preserving color and firmness. The PA/PE packaging regulated gas exchange, lowering oxygen levels and delaying respiration and ripening. As a result, OC fruits had lower weight loss, a slower increase in browning index and maturity index, and better visual and sensory scores than the CTR group. This dual strategy proved effective in extending shelf life while maintaining the fruit’s appearance, flavor, and nutritional value. It represents a sustainable and natural approach to enhancing the postharvest stability of lychee. Full article

Wild edible fruit plants are integral to the cultural, nutritional, medicinal, and economic practices of Indigenous Isan communities in Roi Et Province, northeastern Thailand, a region characterized by plateau and lowland topography and a tropical monsoon climate. This study aimed to document the diversity, traditional uses, phenology, and conservation status of these species to inform sustainable management and conservation efforts. Field surveys and ethnobotanical interviews with 200 informants (100 men, 100 women; random ages) were conducted across 20 local communities to identify species diversity and usage patterns, while phenological observations and conservation assessments were performed to understand reproductive cycles and species vulnerability between January and December 2023. A total of 68 species from 32 families were recorded, with peak flowering in March–April and fruiting in May–June. Analyses of Species Use Value (0.19–0.48) and Relative Frequency of Citation (0.15–0.44) identified key species with significant roles in food security and traditional medicine. Uvaria rufa had the highest SUV (0.48) and RFC (0.44). Informant consensus on medicinal applications was strong for ailments such as gastrointestinal and lymphatic disorders. Economically important species were also identified, with some contributing notable income through local trade. Conservation proposed one species as Critically Endangered and several others as Vulnerable. The results highlight the need for integrated conservation strategies, including community-based initiatives and recognition of Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs), to ensure the preservation of biodiversity, traditional knowledge, and local livelihoods. Full article

Dialium guineense (velvet tamarind), Parkia biglobosa Jacq. (African locust bean) and Adanosonia digitata L. (baobab) are fruits from African plants whose nutritional potential remains poorly characterised. As such, their pulps and seeds were analysed for colour (CIELab system), moisture, ash, protein, fat, soluble and insoluble dietary fibre, free sugars (HPLC-RI), organic acids (HPLC-PDA), macro and microelements (XRF analyser) and amygdalin (HPLC-PDA). The colours of their pulps differed considerable (ΔE > 38 between the velvet tamarind and African locust bean) and the moisture content was lower in seeds (about 7%) compared to pulps (9–13%). Seeds were more concentrated in protein (20–28%) and fat (5–22%), whereas pulps were richer in sugar (1–12%). African locust bean pulp was the sweetest (39% total sugar), while baobab pulp contained the highest soluble fibre (>30%) and citric acid (3.2%), and velvet tamarind pulp was distinguished by its tartaric acid content (3.4%). Seeds of the African fruits presented higher Ca, P, S and Fe contents, whereas pulps had higher K content. No amygdalin (<6.34 mg per 100 g of dry weight) or toxic heavy metal contents were detected. The PCA segregated samples by pulp and seed and the PC1 explains the sugar and moisture of the pulps, while protein, fat and minerals are associated with the seeds. These data confirm that African fruit pulps and seeds have distinct functional profiles, are safe for food use and can be consumed, which is important for efforts to promote the conservation of these tropical plant species. Full article

Cold storage is widely used for the postharvest preservation of fruits and vegetables; however, okra, as a tropical vegetable, is susceptible to chilling injury under low-temperature storage conditions, leading to quality deterioration, reduced nutritional value, and significant economic losses. Nitric oxide (NO), as an important signaling molecule, plays a crucial role in the postharvest preservation of fruits and vegetables. To investigate the effects of different concentrations of nitric oxide on the postharvest quality of okra under cold storage, fresh okra pods were treated with sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a commonly used NO donor, at concentrations of 0 (control), 0.5 (T1), 1.0 (T2), 1.5 (T3), and 2.0 mmol·L⁻¹ (T4). The results showed that low-concentration NO treatment (T1) significantly reduced weight loss, improved texture attributes including hardness, springiness, chewiness, resilience, and cohesiveness, and suppressed the increase in adhesiveness. T1 treatment also effectively inhibited excessive accumulation of cellulose and lignin, thereby maintaining tissue palatability and structural integrity. Additionally, T1 significantly delayed chlorophyll degradation, preserved higher levels of soluble sugars and proteins, and enhanced the activities of key antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT), contributing to improved oxidative stress resistance and membrane stability. In contrast, high-concentration NO treatments (T3 and T4) led to pronounced quality deterioration, characterized by accelerated membrane lipid peroxidation as evidenced by increased malondialdehyde (MDA) content and relative conductivity, and impaired antioxidant defense, resulting in rapid texture degradation, chlorophyll loss, nutrient depletion, and oxidative damage. These findings provide theoretical insights and practical guidance for the precise application of NO in extending shelf life and maintaining the postharvest quality of okra fruits. Full article

Inselbergs are rocky outcrops with specialized vegetation, including woody species growing in poorly developed soils. We investigated whether populations of the lithophytic tree Pseudobombax petropolitanum A. Robyns (Malvaceae), a key species endemic to Atlantic Forest inselbergs, have convergent or divergent patterns of functional traits related to leaf chemistry. This study was carried out on three inselbergs located in southeastern Brazil. Green and senescent leaves from nine healthy trees and soil samples were collected in each inselberg. The carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium concentrations, and the natural abundances of δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N, were measured in leaves and soil, and the C/N, C/P, and N/P ratios were calculated. The specific leaf area (SLA) was measured, and the nutrient retranslocation rate between green and senescent leaves was estimated. Divergences between populations were observed in the concentrations of potassium and magnesium in the green and senescent leaves, as well as in the C/P and N/P ratios in senescent leaves. Our results suggest that nutrient and water dynamics may differ in some inselbergs due to specific nutrients or their relationships, even though there were convergences in most functional traits related to leaf chemistry among the Pseudobombax populations. The divergences among the populations could have important implications for species selection in the ecological restoration context. Full article

Dragon fruit or pitaya (Hylocereus sp.) is an exotic tropical plant gaining popularity in the United States as it is a nutrient-rich fruit with mildly sweet flavor and a good source of fiber. Although high tunnels are being used to produce specialized crops, little is known about how pitaya growth, physiology and nutrient uptake change throughout the production period. This study aims to evaluate the impact of high tunnels and varying rates of vermicompost on three varieties of pitaya, White Pitaya (WP), Yellow Pitaya (YP), and Red Pitaya (RP), to assess the soil and plant nutrient dynamics, spectral reflectance changes and plant growth. Plants were assessed at 120 and 365 DAP (Days After Plantation). YP thrived in a high tunnel compared to an open environment in terms of survival before 120 DAP, with no diseased incidence and higher nutrient retention. The nutrient accumulation in the RP, WP, and YP shoot samples 120 DAP were ranked in the following order, K > N > Ca > Mg > P > Fe > Zn > B > Mn, while 365 DAP, they were ranked as K > Ca > N > Mg > P > S > Fe > Zn > B > Mn. The nutrient accumulation in the RP, WP, and YP, soil samples 120 and 365 DAP were ranked in the following order: N > Ca > Mg > P > K > Na > Zn. Soil nutrients showed a higher concentration of Na and K grown inside the high tunnels in all three pitaya species due to the increased concentration of soluble salts. Spectral reflectance analysis showed that RP and WP had higher reflectance in the visible and NIR region compared to YP due to their higher plant biomass and canopy cover. This study emphasizes the importance of environmental conditions, nutrition strategies, and plant physiology in the different pitaya plant species. The results suggest that high tunnels with appropriate vermicompost can enhance pitaya growth and development. Full article

Orchids and other flowering plants offer a wide range of floral traits. Within the Orchidaceae family, the Vanilla genus is one of the most valued plants in the commercial flavor industry. In vitro biotechnological approaches to Vanilla, such as germplasm conservation, massive propagation, and genetic engineering, have played a key role in breeding programs. There are, however, few studies that elucidate the physiological, molecular, and genetic aspects of vanilla orchid flowering and in vitro induction. This review’s main objective is to provide updated and complete data on in vitro floral induction and flowering of tropical and vanilla orchid species. A bibliographic search was carried out for scientific reports in academic databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect), and a total of 39 documents from 2014 and 2025 were analyzed. This review discusses the most important factors that affect in vitro flowering in Vanilla, including the monopodial genotypes, photoperiod, irradiance, temperature, nutrition, plant growth regulators, explant types, and culture methods. Consequently, this revision incorporates a number of studies on orchid in vitro flowering, with a focus on vanilla species. In conclusion, there still exists limited progress in Vanilla compared to other orchid species; however, the use of biotechnological techniques like in vitro flowering offers a fundamental framework for orchid breeding. Full article

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of three commercial diets for ornamental fish (BIOMAA Spiruflake^® (T1), Tetra TetraMin Tropical Flakes^® (T2), LOMAS tropical fish flakes^® (T3)) compared to a balanced feed for trout (Silver Cup TM (T4)) on the growth, survival, digestive enzyme activity, and intestinal and liver morphology of guppy (Poecilia reticulata) fry after 31 days of feeding. The highest growth was in T2 (0.101 ± 0.004 g) and T4 (0.084 ± 0.008 g) (p < 0.05). Fish fed with T1, T2, and T4 presented the greatest total length. T4 (98 ± 2.828%) and T1 (96 ± 5.656%) had the highest survival. Fish fed with T2 and T4 showed the best growth index values (AWG, SGR, FCR). T4 showed greater alkaline protease, trypsin, and chymotrypsin activity and better in vitro digestibility. The fish fed the T4 diet had the lowest intestinal fold height and the smallest hepatocyte diameter. A cheaper aquaculture diet (T4) significantly improved guppy juvenile nutrition compared to ornamental feeds. Further research should focus on developing species-specific ornamental diets for enhanced fish welfare. Full article

Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is a vital tropical staple crop with expanding relevance beyond food security, particularly in developing functional beverages and nutraceutical products. This review discusses the implications of selected chemicals in cassava roots for beverage production, notably cyanogenic glycosides and phenolic compounds. We further highlight the role of cassava as a substrate for beverage production, the nutritional significance of cassava-based beverages, and the health benefits and functional potential of cassava as a key ingredient in beverage production. We also discuss the probiotic and prebiotic properties and the antioxidant activity of chemicals in cassava-based beverages for health benefits. Additionally, we review the challenges, opportunities, and innovations regarding commercialization. Full article

Three experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of narasin inclusion on the growth performance of grazing beef cattle under similar forage availability and quality. All three experiments were arranged in a randomized complete block design according to the initial BW. Exp 1: 200 Nellore calves (initial BW = 177 ± 15 kg) were randomly allocated in three treatments for 84 d during the rainy season: (1) CONT: mineral supplement; (2) 1400 N: 1400 mg of narasin/kg of supplement; and (3) 2100 N: 2100 mg of narasin/kg of supplement. Narasin inclusion increased (p ≤ 0.01) ADG by 0.077 kg/d and final BW by 6.7 kg, with no differences (p ≥ 0.50) between narasin doses. Exp 2: 240 Nellore calves (initial BW = 195 ± 19 kg) were allocated to CONT or N1400 for 112 d during the rainy season. Narasin inclusion increased (p ≤ 0.01) ADG by 0.082 kg/d and final BW by 9.1 kg. Exp 3: 150 Nellore yearlings (initial BW = 332 ± 22 kg) were allocated for 112 d during the dry season: (1) PROT: protein supplement and (2) PROT250: inclusion of 250 mg of narasin/kg of supplement. Narasin inclusion increased (p ≤ 0.04) ADG by 0.048 kg and final BW by 5.3 kg. For all experiments, narasin inclusion did not impact (p ≥ 0.25) supplement intake. Hence, inclusion of narasin in mineral and protein supplements consistently enhances growth performance of grazing beef cattle across different seasons and production stages, without impacting supplement intake, providing an effective nutritional strategy to enhance productivity on tropical pastures. Full article

Tropical fruits have become increasingly popular due to their interesting nutritional composition. This rise in their consumption has resulted in more by-products generated during their production, processing, and commercialization. Papaya, for instance, is one of the leading tropical fruits produced globally due to its essential macro- and micronutrients for a healthy diet. On the other hand, dragon fruit, less known worldwide, is gaining popularity due to its nutrient and bioactive compound content. This review uses bibliometric analysis as a tool to investigate the scientific literature related to these two fruits, focusing specifically on their by-products. The objective is to identify the key authors and countries that are making substantial contributions to the research on these fruits and their by-products, such as peels and seeds. It will provide an overview of existing topics and highlight areas needing further investigation to enhance understanding and practical applications. This approach will help guide future research and innovations related to these fruits and their potential uses. Full article

The mud crab (Scylla paramamosain), also known as the mangrove crab, thrives in shallow mangrove forests, subtidal zones, and muddy intertidal habitats. It is a highly valuable species in the mangroves and estuaries of tropical regions and is in high demand in Vietnam’s coastal markets. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the key factors influencing consumer behavior and purchasing decisions regarding mud crabs in Vietnam’s three largest cities: Can Tho City, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi Capital. To achieve this, the research employs rigorous analytical methods, including Cronbach’s alpha reliability test, principal component analysis, and multivariate regression analysis, to identify the primary determinants of consumer behavior and purchasing preferences for fresh mud crabs. The multiple regression analysis reveals two key factors that significantly influence consumer choices: nutritional knowledge and convenience awareness. Most of consumers perceive fresh mud crabs as superior in quality, expecting them to offer greater freshness; higher levels of protein, amino acids, and minerals; as well as excellent flesh texture and enhanced palatability. Based on these findings, two strategic directions are proposed for the sustainable development of Vietnam’s crab industry: (1) improving the nutritional quality of crab products to align with consumer expectations for health benefits and (2) enhancing the distribution network and diversifying product offerings to improve accessibility and convenience for consumers. Full article

Food security remains one of the most critical global challenges of the 21st century. Traditional tree crops domesticated by indigenous people have the potential to increase food security and improve the livelihoods of smallholders in developing countries. However, the nut characteristics of many traditional tree crop species in the tropics are poorly understood. In particular, physical and chemical characteristics are important to explore when selecting trees to commercialise. Three species, Barringtonia procera, B. edulis, and B. nova-hiberniae, have a long history of traditional use and domestication in Pacific Island countries. The aim of this study was to explore the physical and chemical characteristics of Barringtonia spp. in three Pacific countries: Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Fiji. There were significant differences in kernel weight, oil concentration, and fatty acid concentration among the countries. The kernel weight was significantly higher in Solomon Islands compared with those in Vanuatu and Fiji (9.65 g, 7.61 g, and 5.64 g, respectively). Average kernel weight in Fiji was well above 3 g, which indicated that processing could be commercially viable. The total oil concentration was significantly higher in Vanuatu and Solomon Islands than Fiji, with average concentrations of 38.96% in Solomon Islands, 47.11% in Vanuatu, and 26.20% in Fiji. Barringtonia spp. exhibited high concentrations of unsaturated fatty acids, similar to other tropical nuts, which suggests that it may be a potential healthy oil for human consumption. Notably, kernel size, oil concentration, and fatty acid composition varied geographically, potentially due to climatic differences and historical seed transfer. Our study demonstrated the potential of Barringtonia to be commercialised to enhance food and nutrition security and provide a guide for cultivar selection. Full article