Use Of Chemical Pesticides Research Articles

α-Solanine and α-Tomatine Affect the Retrocerebral Complexes of Tenebrio molitor and Zophobas atratus Beetles.

Presently, the European Commission is moving forward with a plan to reduce the use of chemical pesticides and increase the percentage of organic farming by 2030; this plan demands increased availability of biopesticides for organic farming. Glycoalkaloids are a class of molecules found in certain plants, including tomatoes and potatoes, which contain sugar and an alkaloid group. These compounds are known to have insecticidal properties, as they can act as natural defenses against insect pests. This study examined how a biological substance, glycoalkaloids, affects mortality and the retrocerebral complex of two beetle species, Tenebrio molitor and Zophobas atratus. More specifically, we focused on two glycoalkaloids, α-solanine and α-tomatine. Although these two insects belong to the same taxonomic family, they were not equally susceptible to these substances. In the mortality test, we observed that the T. molitor beetle seemed more susceptible, whereas the changes in the retrocerebral complex were more significant in the case of Z. atratus. In general, the effects vary between substances and insects, and changes in the retrocerebral complex may impair the reproduction of insects.

Bacillus thuringiensis strains with high insecticidal activity against insect larvae of the orders Coleoptera and Lepidoptera

Abstract The concept of sustainable agricultural development is aimed at reducing the use of chemical pest control agents. Since the use of chemical pesticides poses a significant environmental threat, one of the possible solutions to overcome this problem is the study of biological approaches, in particular, the use of entomopathogenic microorganisms as biological pest control agents. Insecticidal activity of over 220 strains of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and Lysinibacillus sphaericus from the collection of the Laboratory of Spore-Forming Microorganisms of the Microbial Depository Center of the Scientific and Production Center “Armbiotechnology” and 15 strains isolated from samples of dead insects (imago) of representatives of various genera of the Coleoptera order was studied. The pathogenic effect of the strains was assessed in relation to the insect species Tenebrio molitor, Zophobas morio, Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say and Pieris brassicae, belonging to the Coleoptera and Lepidoptera orders. Among the test objects, the representative of Lepidoptera Pieris brassicae demonstrated the highest degree of sensitivity to B. thuringiensis strains up to 100%, with some Bt strains causing 60–100% mortality of Tenebrio molitor and Zophobas morio larvae of different ages. The larvae of the beetle Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say were also partially susceptible, presenting mortality levels of between 31 and 60%. The article is devoted to the study of Bt bacterial strains that have pronounced insecticidal activity against insect larvae of the orders Coleoptera and Lepidoptera.

Antioxidant cysteine and methionine derivatives show trachea disruption in insects.

To prevent the deterioration of the global environment, the reduction of chemical pesticide use and the development of eco-friendly pest control technologies are urgent issues. Our recent study revealed that the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by dual oxidase (Duox) plays a pivotal role in stabilizing the tracheal network by intermediating the tyrosine cross-linking of proteins that constitute trachea. Notably, the formation of dityrosine bonds by ROS can be inhibited by the intake of an antioxidant cysteine derivative N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), which can suppress insect respiration. In this study, we screened for the derivatives showing insecticidal activity and tracheal formation inhibition. As a result of investigating the soybean pest bug Riptortus pedestris, cysteine and methionine derivatives showed respiratory formation inhibition and high insecticidal activity. In particular, NAC had a slow-acting insecticidal effect, while L-cysteine methyl ester (L-CME) showed relatively fast-acting insecticidal activity. Furthermore, the insecticidal activity of these derivatives was also detected in Drosophila, mealworms, cockroaches, termites, and plant bugs. Our results suggest that some antioxidant compounds have specific tracheal inhibitory activity in different insect species and they may be used as novel pest control agents upon further characterization.

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MZ895491: an endophytic bacterium as potential biocontrol agent in integrated pest management of fall armyworm in maize

ABSTRACT The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda is a major pest of maize crops and necessitates effective control measures. Excessive use of chemical pesticides often results in the development of resistant insect populations and environmental contamination, highlighting the need for environmentally friendly substitutes. This research aimed to estimate the potential of maize (COH6) apoplastic fluid bacterium Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (MZ895491), as a biocontrol agent against second instar S. frugiperda larvae under laboratory and pot culture conditions. The results suggest that the presence of B. amyloliquefaciens in the artificial diet could reduce the growth and development of S. frugiperda larvae. Metabolic profiling of extracellular components of B. amyloliquefaciens revealed the presence of numerous defensive and anti-feeding metabolites. A study conducted in pots demonstrated that foliar application of B. amyloliquefaciens to 5 d old maize resulted in a significant increase in antioxidant activity (83.3%), chlorophyll content (63.3%) and phenolic content (81.3%) in the leaves of 35 d old maize after 24 h of S. frugiperda infestation. Feeding bioassay further indicated significant reduction in the feeding capacity of S. frugiperda larvae on maize inoculated with B. amyloliquefaciens. The study observed that a metabolic modification in maize leaves likely led to reduced growth in larvae during the whole plant bioassay. This suggests that foliar application of B. amyloliquefaciens may effectively serve as one of the biocontrol agents against Spodoptera frugiperda. The application appears to alter the feeding behaviour of the larvae and modify maize leaf metabolism.

Sustainable Pest Management: As an Alternative to Chemical Pesticides

It is critically necessary to make a major transition to a whole system approach for crop protection in order to address the growing environmental and economic effects of managing agricultural pests. The use of chemical pesticides, which can kill non-target species, pollute water supplies, and destroy ecosystems, is lessened through the use of sustainable pest management (SPM). SPM reduces ecological disturbance by utilising biological controls, natural predators, and other eco-friendly techniques. SPM encourages crop diversification, the application of natural enemies, and ecological farming methods that increase biodiversity. As a result, insect outbreaks are decreased and ecosystem resilience is increased.

Influence of Cooperatives' Socialized Services on Agricultural Households' Chemical Fertilizer and Pesticide Use Intensity —Based on the Evidence from Two Counties, Hubei, China

Influence of Cooperatives' Socialized Services on Agricultural Households' Chemical Fertilizer and Pesticide Use Intensity —Based on the Evidence from Two Counties, Hubei, China

Spatial variation in physicochemical water quality parameters associated with Rice farming in the Dakalt Branch Canal, Kafrelsheikh governorate, Egypt

AbstractThe inappropriate use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in rice farming has been identified as a significant source of pollution in the aquatic environments. The declining water quality has been a cause of concern for the riparian communities owing to ill health associated with the usage of contaminated water from lotic systems draining such rice‐growing areas and its potential to cause lethal and sublethal effects on aquatic organisms. The spatial variation of selected water quality parameters was assessed using multivariate techniques. Data from three sampling stations, collected in triplicates, were analyzed to understand the effects of rice farming practices on the Dakalt Branch Canal's water quality. Eleven physicochemical parameters were measured in situ with a portable multimeter, while nutrients and other chemical parameters were determined following the standard procedures outlined in the American Public Health Association using the UV/Visible spectrophotometer. One‐way ANOVA was used to establish whether or not there were significant differences among means of various parameters. The findings revealed considerable spatial variability in the means for nearly all water quality parameters (p < 0.05). The Water Quality Index revealed that all the sampling stations were polluted with indices of more than 100. We conclude that poor rice management practices are responsible for the observed pollution of the River Nile and potentially lethal and sublethal effects on aquatic organisms and human health. We therefore recommend regular monitoring of the water quality of the Dakalt Branch Canal and that the relevant stakeholders, including farmers, embrace Best Management Practices, especially when applying pesticides and fertilizers.

Evaluating the Bio-Efficacy of Pesticide Combinations on Natural Enemies in Rice Cultivation

Rice cultivation is frequently threatened by pests, leading to the widespread use of chemical pesticides including organophosphates, carbamates, and synthetic pyrethroids. This study evaluates the bio-efficacy of various pesticide combinations in rice fields and their effects on natural enemies like spiders and coccinellids. Pesticides such as chlorantraniliprole, flubendiamide, Azoxystrobin, Tebuconazole, Difenconazole and cartap hydrochloride used alone or in combination were tested for their compatibility and safety. Results showed that these combinations do not significantly suppress natural enemies, making them suitable for Integrated pest management due to often carefully selected to target pests without affecting beneficial organisms. It supports the development of sustainable pest management strategies that minimize harm to beneficial organisms.

Antibiotic-producing plant-associated bacteria, anti-virulence therapy and microbiome engineering: Integrated approaches in sustainable agriculture.

Plant health is crucial for maintaining the well-being of humans, animals and the environment. Plant pathogens pose significant challenges to agricultural production, global food security and ecosystem biodiversity. This problem is exacerbated by the impact of climate change, which is expected to alter the emergence and evolution of plant pathogens and their interaction with their plant hosts. Traditional approaches to managing phytopathogens involved the use of chemical pesticides, but alternative strategies are needed to address their ongoing decline in performance as well as their negative impact on the environment and public health. Here, we highlight the advancement and effectiveness of biocontrol strategies based on the use of antimicrobial-producing plant-associated bacteria, anti-virulence therapy (e.g. quorum quenching) and microbiome engineering as sustainable biotechnological approaches to promote plant health and foster sustainable agriculture. Notably, Enterobacterales are emerging as important biocontrol agents and as a source of new antimicrobials for potential agricultural use. We analysed here the genomes of over 250 plant-associated enterobacteria to examine their potential to synthesize secondary metabolites. Exploration of the plant microbiome is of major interest in the search for eco-friendly alternatives for reducing the use of chemical pesticides.

Utilisation of Cow Faeces as a Base Material to Making Bokashi Fertiliser to Increase Farmers Income in Balai Hamlet, Taram Village, Harau District

The application of technology in agriculture aims to increase food production through the substitution of traditional farming systems with modern farming systems by utilising more advanced technology. This has an impact on the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, which can cause environmental damage and ultimately reduce agricultural productivity. Processing cow dung into organic fertiliser for crops is an applied technology in the framework of implementing zero waste farming technology. One of the benefits that can be obtained is increased income by reducing the cost of artificial fertiliser needs. Cow faeces as cattle farming waste has not been optimally utilised. Cow faeces are usually piled up by farmers behind or near the cowshed, causing a strong smell (air pollution). The results of the activity of making cow feces bokashi organic fertiliser are very beneficial for farmers as a substitute for inorganic fertiliser; The creation of clean cowshed conditions, and environmentally friendly rice fields.

ANTHROPOGENIC PRESSURE IN RURAL AREAS: DIAGNOSIS AND MAPPING OF POTENTIAL POLLUTION SOURCES AFFECTING WATER RESOURCESIN THE WATERSHED HEADS OF THE OUEME AND PENDJARI RIVERS IN THE COMMUNE OF COPARGO (NORTH-WEST BENIN)

Critical in assessing the quality and quantity of watercourses, headwaters of watersheds have been under anthropogenic pressure for several years, which has had negative impacts on water resources and soils. This study aims to assess the state of anthropogenic activities within the headwaters of the Copargo watersheds, followed by identifying and mapping potential sources of pollution to the water resources of the Oueme and Pendjari river headwaters in the Copargo municipality. To achieve this, data were collected through surveys, interviews, direct field observations, and remote sensing using Google Earth Engine. The results indicate that agriculture is the main activity, practiced by 90.84% of the population. Livestock farming (8.9%) and wood exploitation (7.2%) follow. The surveys reveal that the land is rarely left fallow, indicating overexploitation. The average duration of land cultivation during an agricultural season is 7.77 months. The agricultural inputs used include chemical fertilizers (NPK fertilizers and urea) and pesticides (herbicides and insecticides). On average, 120.5 kg of NPK fertilizer, 63 kg of urea, and 6.99 liters of pesticides are used per season per farmer. 2% of the producers attribute soil depletion to the use of agricultural inputs. The results of this study show that the potential sources of pollution in the study area remain anthropogenic activities, particularly agriculture, through the increased use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides (herbicides, insecticides). The absence of industrial units in the study area eliminates any risk of pollution from factories. Given the activities carried out in the area, this study will be followed by a physicochemical characterization of water resources and soils to evaluate their physicochemical and chemical quality.

Response to Addition of Lighting Duration and Electrical Induction in Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) Plant on the Uptake of Nitrogen, Phosphors, Potassium and Yield

Background: The impact of excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides causes problems of land degradation, low fertility levels and reduced cation exchange capacity. To increase nutrient uptake and yield of lettuce plants, cultivation techniques using induction and additional lighting are needed. The aim is to increase nutrient absorption and plant yields. Methods: The research design used a split plot with Factorial Randomized Groups. Factor 1 Lighting duration (P) for 4 and 8 hours per day and Factor 2, induction with DC (Direct Current) current (S). Induction 1 time per day (S1); The treatment in this study was repeated 4 times. Induction 2 times per day (S2) and Induction 3 times per day (S3). Result: The combination P2S2 showed good results regarding the uptake of Nitrogen (20.1 Kg.Ha-1), Phosphorus (2.71 Kg.Ha-1) and Potassium (67.23 Kg.Ha-1) in plant leaves. The P1S2 treatment showed a leaf area of (1652.19 cm2). The adding 4 hours of light and an induction interval of 2 times per day gave good results on the uptake of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium in the leaf of lettuce plants.

Examining the relationship between health literacy and pesticide protective behaviors among farmers in Thailand

Background The use of chemical pesticides without proper health literacy (HL) and necessary pesticide protective behaviors (PPB) can result in adverse effects on human health. Methods This study aims to determine if there is a correlation between HL and PPB among farmers in the Nakhon Ratchasima province, using a random sample of 464 farmers. Structured interviews consisted of three parts: 1. General information, 2. Health literacy (including knowledge, understanding, and other sub-aspects), and 3. Protective behaviors against chemical exposure. Each part of the questionnaire had a reliability index of 0.60 or higher. The reliability of the 2nd and 3rd parts of the questionnaire were as follows: sub-sections of part 2 had a Kuder-Richardson (KR-20) coefficient of 0.79 and Cronbach’s alpha (α) coefficient of 0.85-0.86, while part 3 had an α of 0.88. Risk of chemical exposure was assessed using a Cholinesterase Reactive Paper test administered by a finger-prick blood test. Data was analyzed using the Spearman correlation and binary logistic regression. The study was reviewed by the Human Research Ethics Committee with the approval date: August 9, 2021, and expiry date: August 9, 2022. Results Most participants had moderate levels of overall HL (48.8%) and PPB (44.6%). There was a statistically significant positive correlation between HL and PPB (rs(478) = 0.70, p<.005). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that HL had a statistically significant positive association with PPB (p<.001, OR = 6.57, 95% CI 3.95, 10.94) and was associated with blood cholinesterase levels. Conclusions These findings highlight the need for increased health literacy among farmers in Thailand to ensure correct protective behaviors against chemical exposure and reduce the adverse effects of pesticide exposure on human health.

Salicylic acid functionalized chitosan nanocomposite increases bioactive components and insect resistance of Agastache rugosa

The abundance of monoterpenoids and phenolic compounds determines the medicinal quality and anti-insect properties of Agastache rugosa, which can be compromised by biotic stress such as herbivore attacks. The traditional use of chemical pesticides to mitigate herbivore interference is increasingly incompatible with sustainable agriculture. In response, nanotechnology-based biostimulants, which can activate metabolic processes to enhance plant growth and stress resistance, offer a more cost-effective and environmentally-friendly alternative. However, to date, it remains unknown how nano-biostimulants improve the therapeutic value and insect resistance of medicinal plants simultaneously. This study investigates the effect of 0–1000 mg/L of a nano-biostimulant salicylic acid functionalized chitosan nanocomposite (SCN) on the pharmacological and anti-herbivore properties of medicinal plant A. rugosa. Results showed that 100 mg/L SCN significantly inhibited Spodoptera litura growth by 62.9 %, and increased plant shoot and root biomass by 107.2 % and 77.6 %, respectively. Moreover, 100 mg/L SCN significantly upregulated the expression of the key genes (e.g., LS, L3OH, and CHS) involved in monoterpene and phenolic compounds biosynthesis by 1.4–10.1 folds, thus boosting the production of active compounds such as pulegone, β-myrcene, and chlorogenic acid by 1.5–24.4 folds. These enhancements were superior to salicylic acid or chitosan alone. Altogether, our findings promote the sustainable and eco-friendly application of nano-biostimulant in improving the quality of medicinal plants and green pest control in agroecosystems.

Recent Advances in Biopesticide Formulations for Targeted Insect Pest Management: A Review

The increasing environmental and health concerns associated with the use of synthetic chemical pesticides have driven the need for alternative, eco-friendly pest management solutions. Biopesticides, derived from natural sources such as plants and microorganisms, offer a promising solution, as they are less toxic, decompose quickly, and target specific pests with minimal impact on non-target organisms. Recent advancements in biopesticide formulations, including nano pesticides, controlled release formulations (CRFs), hydrogels, polymer-coated granules, and tablets, are enhancing the effectiveness, stability, and environmental safety of these products. The integration of nanotechnology and controlled release systems in biopesticides is opening new avenues for sustainable agriculture. This review discusses the various biopesticide formulation technologies, highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and future prospects.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles reduce cadmium accumulation in hydroponic lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) by increasing photosynthetic capacity and regulating phenylpropane metabolism

Due to the continuous production of industrial wastes and the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, severe cadmium (Cd) pollution in soil has occurred globally. This study investigated the impacts of incorporating zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) into hydroponically grown lettuce (Lactuca sativa) under cadmium stress conditions, to seek effective methods to minimize Cd buildup in green leafy vegetables. The results showed that 1 mg/L of Cd significantly inhibited lettuce growth, decreasing in leaves (29 %) and roots (33 %) biomass. However, when lettuce was exposed to 2.5 mg/L ZnONPs under cadmium stress, the growth, chlorophyll content, net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), actual photochemical efficiency of PSII (φPSII), and activity of key enzymes in photosynthesis were all significantly enhanced. Furthermore, ZnONPs significantly decreased the accumulation of Cd in lettuce leaves (36 %) and roots (13 %). They altered the subcellular distribution and chemical morphology of Cd in lettuce by modifying the composition of cell walls (such as pectin content) and the levels of phenolic compounds, resulting in a reduction of 27 % in Cd translocation from roots to leaves. RNA sequencing yielded 45.9 × 107 and 53.4 × 107 clean reads from plant leaves and roots in control (T0), Cd (T1), Cd+ZnONPs (T2), and ZnONPs (T3) treatment groups respectively, and 3614 and 1873 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis identified photosynthesis, carbon fixation, and phenylpropanoid metabolism as the main causes of ZnONPs-mediated alleviation of Cd stress in lettuce. Specifically, the DEGs identified included 12 associated with photosystem I, 13 with photosystem II and 23 DEGs with the carbon fixation pathway of photosynthesis. Additionally, DEGs related to phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, caffeoyl CoA 3-O-methyltransferase, peroxidase, 4-coumarate-CoA ligase, hydroxycinnamoyl transferase, and cytochrome P450 proteins were also identified. Therefore, further research is recommended to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which ZnONPs reduce Cd absorption in lettuce through phenolic acid components in the phenylpropanoid metabolism pathway. Overall, treatments with ZnONPs are recommended to effectively reduce Cd accumulation in the edible portion of lettuce.

ALIH USAHATANI PADI SAWAH KE TANAMAN JERUK NIPIS (Citrus auratifolia) DI DESA TRIDANA MULYA KECAMATAN LANDONO KABUPATEN KONAWE SELATAN

The objective of this study is to ascertain the underlying factors that precipitate the transition from wet-rice farming to lime farming, as well as to examine the impact of such farming conversions among farmers in Tridana Mulya Village. The study population was comprised of two groups: a group of 31 lime farmers and a group of seven rice farmers. The sampling technique employed was the census method, which entailed the inclusion of the entire population, resulting in a research sample of 38 individuals (31 lime farmers and 7 rice paddy farmers). Data were collected through the use of interview techniques, observation, and documentation of media sources in the form of questionnaires. The variables under investigation are the factors that influence the transfer of farming and the impact of such transfer. The data were analyzed using a descriptive method and an income formula. The results demonstrated that the factors that precipitated the transition from paddy rice farming to lime farming were attributable to a confluence of production, economic, and cultivation-related considerations. The production yield factor of lime farming has demonstrated an increase in production compared to paddy rice farming in Tridana Mulya Village. In terms of economic factors, lime farming has been shown to yield higher profits for farmers than paddy rice farming. Additionally, the cultivation factors associated with lime farming are considerably more straightforward, as the land only requires processing once, due to the fact that lime is a long-term crop, in contrast to paddy rice farming, which is dependent on seasonal conditions. The impact of switching farms includes both economic and environmental consequences. From an economic standpoint, farmers' income may change after switching from paddy rice farming to lime crops. This is because lime crops may yield higher profits than paddy rice, depending on various factors. From an environmental standpoint, the lack of use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides in lime farming may reduce the impact on the environment. This is in contrast to the opposite condition observed in paddy rice farming.

Sustainable Paddy Farming in Edirne: Evaluating the Impacts of Excessive Fertilizer and Pesticide Use

This study examines the environmental and economic impacts of chemical fertilizer and pesticide use in paddy fields in Edirne Province, Türkiye. Chemical fertilizers, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, are crucial for boosting paddy yield and ensuring food security. However, recent trends indicate significant potassium deficiency and excessive pesticide use, leading to environmental degradation and higher production costs. Incorrect fertilization techniques and pesticide usage can lower product quality and yield, adversely affecting farmers’ incomes and the national economy. Surveying 139 paddy farmers, the research found that farmers apply the herbicidal active ingredients Tefuryltrione, Clomazone, Tembotrione, and Quinclorac at rates of 129.35%, 34.27%, 18.06%, and 155.29% above the recommended levels, respectively. The excessive use of pesticides costs each farmer an additional USD 925.67, totaling USD 5.32 million for Edirne. The majority of farmers (69.2%) do not conduct soil analysis, indicating a potential gap in adopting the best practices for soil management and fertilization. Farmers use 84% less potassium than recommended while applying nitrogen and phosphorus 13% and 14% above the recommended levels, respectively. The extra cost of fertilizer use in Edirne is calculated as USD 833,135.49. This situation harms the economy and may have adverse effects on the environment and potential health effects on consumers.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) on Soil Physico-chemical Properties in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Intercrop under Beul (Grewia optiva Drummond.) Based Agroforestry System and Open Condition

The raising human health hazards due to excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in India leads cancer patients. To overcome such problems there is need of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) in our major crop wheat and further to improve soil fertility under agroforestry system. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out to study the impact of INM on the physical and chemical properties of soil when wheat intercropped under Beul (Grewia optiva) based agroforestry system in the mid-hill region of Himachal Pradesh at Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, HP (India). INM practices were applied to evaluate their effectiveness in enhancing soil fertility, crop yield, and overall soil health. The experimental setup included various treatment combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers viz., T1: RDF, T2: FYM, T3: Vermicompost, T4: Goat manure, T5: 50% RDF+50% FYM, T6: 50% RDF+50% VC, T7: 50% RDF+50% GM, and T8: Control to determine their synergistic effects on the soil and cereal crop. These treatments were randomly assigned to plots under two planting conditions: S1 (under Beul based agroforestry system) and S2 (open condition), with three replications each, following in a factorial randomized block design (RBD). The key physical parameters such as bulk density (g/cm3), particle density (g/cm3), porosity (%), and soil moisture (%) were measured along with chemical properties of soil including soil pH, EC (dS/m1), organic carbon content (%), and nutrient availability of N, P and K in kg per hectare. The soil data of two consecutive years and pooled data were analyzed in R Statistical Software. The results demonstrated that INM significantly improved both the physical and chemical soil properties in agroforestry system as compared to control treatment i.e. open condition. The use of 100 % FYM found to be best treatment during the course of study among various treatments of INM for soil porosity, soil moisture, soil pH, available N, P and K. The soil structure and nutrient availability were increased in second year as compared to first year which will lead to improve the growth and yield of wheat crop. The study underscores the importance of adopting INM practices in agroforestry system to achieve sustainable agriculture as well as chemical free agriculture in hilly regions of Himachal Pradesh which will be helpful for human health. Thus, the use 100% FYM fertilizer is recommended for farmers in hilly area of Himachal Pradesh for sustainable agriculture and natural farming. The findings provide valuable insights for farmers and policymakers aiming to optimize crop production and maintain soil health in similar agro-ecological zones.

Biocontrol of rusted root rot in Panax ginseng by a combination of extracts from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens YY8 crude protein and Enterobacteriaceae YY115 ethyl acetate

BackgroundRusted root rot is one of the most common root diseases in Panax ginseng, and Cylindrocarpon destructans is one of the main pathogenic fungus. The objective of this study was to screen and explore the extracts of biocontrol bacteria isolated from ginseng rhizosphere soil against Cylindrocarpon destructans.ResultsBacterial strains Bacillus amyloliquefaciens YY8 and Enterobacteriacea YY115 were isolated and found to exhibit in vitro antifungal activity against C. destructans. A combination of crude protein extract from B. amyloliquefaciens YY8 and ethyl acetate extract from Enterobacteriacea YY115 in a 6:4 ratio exhibited the strongest antifungal activity against C. destructans. Measurements of electrical conductivity, protein content, and nucleic acid content in suspension cultures of C. destructans treated with a mixture extracts indicated that the extracts disrupted the cell membranes of rusted root rot mycelia, resulting in the leakage of electrolytes, proteins, and nucleic acids from the cells, and ultimately inhibiting the growth of C. destructans. The combined extracts suppressed the infection of ginseng roots discs by C. destructans effectively.ConclusionThe extracts obtained from the two bacterial strains effectively inhibited C. destructans in P. ginseng. It can provide scientific basis for the development of new biological control pesticides, reduce the use of chemical pesticides, and promote the sustainable development of agriculture.