Deep Root Research Articles

IGT/LAZY genes are differentially influenced by light and required for light-induced change to organ angle

BackgroundPlants adjust their growth orientations primarily in response to light and gravity signals. Considering that the gravity vector is fixed and the angle of light incidence is constantly changing, plants must somehow integrate these signals to establish organ orientation, commonly referred to as gravitropic set-point angle (GSA). The IGT gene family contains known regulators of GSA, including the gene clades LAZY, DEEPER ROOTING (DRO), and TILLER ANGLE CONTROL (TAC).ResultsHere, we investigated the influence of light on different aspects of GSA phenotypes in LAZY and DRO mutants, as well as the influence of known light signaling pathways on IGT gene expression. Phenotypic analysis revealed that LAZY and DRO genes are collectively required for changes in the angle of shoot branch tip and root growth in response to light. Single lazy1 mutant branch tips turn upward in the absence of light and in low light, similar to wild-type, and mimic triple and quadruple IGT mutants in constant light and high-light conditions, while triple and quadruple IGT/LAZY mutants show little to no response to changing light regimes. Further, the expression of IGT/LAZY genes is differentially influenced by daylength, circadian clock, and light signaling.ConclusionsCollectively, the data show that differential expression of LAZY and DRO genes are required to enable plants to alter organ angles in response to light-mediated signals.

Irrigation Scheduling and Cultivar Management for Increasing Water Productivity under Dryland Condition: A Review

In Dryland environments with limited water resources, irrigation scheduling and cultivar management are play pivotal roles in enhancing water productivity. Effective irrigation scheduling involves the judicious timing and amount of water application, considering factors such as soil moisture levels and crop growth stages. Utilizing advanced technologies, such as soil moisture sensors and remote sensing, facilitates precise irrigation management. This approach not only conserves water but also prevents waterlogging and salinity issues, promoting optimal plant growth. Cultivar selection is another critical aspect, focusing on identifying and cultivating crops that are well-adapted to arid conditions. Drought-resistant cultivars with traits like deep root systems and efficient water use contribute significantly to water productivity. Integrating modern breeding techniques and genetic engineering enhances the development of cultivars with improved drought tolerance, ensuring resilience in dryland agriculture. Furthermore, the implementation of agro ecological practices, such as conservation tillage and organic farming, complements irrigation scheduling and cultivar management. These practices enhance soil structure, water retention, and overall ecosystem health, fostering a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system. Adopting a comprehensive approach that combines precise irrigation scheduling, resilient cultivar selection and agro ecological practices holds great potential for increasing water productivity in dryland conditions. This integrated strategy not only addresses the challenges posed by water scarcity but also contributes to the long-term viability of agriculture in arid regions.

Enhancing wheat yield and nitrogen use efficiency in the Huang‐Huai‐Hai region of China: Insights from root biomass and nitrogen application responses

AbstractWheat yield and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) have improved simultaneously with the genetic development of wheat varieties. However, wheat selection is carried out routinely in N‐rich field conditions, with breeding progress limited under low soil available nitrogen. Thus, we performed a 2‐year field investigation using eight milestone winter wheat varieties released between 1947 and 2017 in the Huang‐Huai‐Hai region of China with two N applications—normal (CK; 220 kg N ha−1) and reduced (RN; 110 kg N ha−1)—in Shaanxi, China, to examine changes in wheat yield, NUE, water use efficiency (WUE) and root biomass. Our findings revealed average annual yield increases of 49.615 kg ha−1 and 36.905 kg ha−1 under CK and RN, respectively. Notably, the NUE trend mirrored yield, increasing with the release year of wheat varieties, with average annual increases in NUE of 0.192 and 0.336 kg kg−1 under CK and RN, respectively. In the RN treatment, N uptake efficiency (UPE) increased with year of release, while N utilization efficiency (UTE) had no significant relationship. In the CK treatment, UTE increased with year of release, while UPE had no significant relationship. Across the 2‐year experiment, surface root biomass (0–20 cm layer) increased with year of release under CK but had no relationship under RN, while deep root biomass (20–200 cm layer) decreased with year of release under CK and increased under RN. The roots of modern wheat varieties responded better to soil nitrogen levels and produced higher yields, NUE and WUE than earlier varieties by adjusting root biomass distribution in soil.

Tall fescue tiller survival over summer in a subtropical environment: The role of the size and depth of root systems

AbstractPasture persistence is a key determinant of the economic and environmental performance of pastoral animal production systems. Large and deep root systems that help resist summer water stress have been proposed as a relevant trait for vegetative persistence of perennial temperate forage species growing in subtropical climates or under future climatically challenging scenarios. In a previous study [Jauregui et al., 2017. Persistence of tall fescue in a subtropical environment: Tiller survival over summer in response to flowering control and nitrogen supply. Grass and Forage Science 72, 454–466] we have shown that nitrogen fertilization and grazing management aimed at ‘control flowering’ increased the survival of tall fescue tillers during harsh summers in Uruguay (lat. 32°S). Here we assessed: (i) to what extent tiller survival is mediated by root system size in spring and (ii) what consequences tiller survival entails for root mass, depth and morphology the following autumn. In two field experiments, significant increases in tiller survival in response to nitrogen fertilization and grazing management (+60% and +80% in 2011/12 and 2012/13, respectively) were not related to concomitant effects on the size or depth of the root system in spring (p > .10). Even when six‐fold within‐treatment variation in root mass was observed, within‐treatment variation in summer tiller survival was little affected (<15%, p = .08). In turn, differences in tiller survival over summer affected little root system characteristics the following autumn. Therefore, we found scant support for the hypothesis that large and deep root systems contribute to survival of tall fescue tillers in this subtropical humid climate. Except for soils with less than 30 mm of plant available water holding capacity, summer water deficits did not induce severe tiller mortality in tall fescue in this climate.

Peach LAZY1 and DRO1 protein-protein interactions and co-expression with PRAF/RLD family support conserved gravity-related protein interactions across plants.

IGT/LAZY proteins play a central role in determining gravitropic set point angle and orientation of lateral organs across plant species. Recent work in model systems has demonstrated that interactions between IGT/LAZY proteins and BREVIS RADIX (BRX)-domain containing proteins, such as PH, RCC1, AND FYVE/RCC1-LIKE DOMAIN (PRAF/RLD), and BREVIS RADIX LIKE (BRXL) family members, are mechanistically important for setting gravitropic set point angle. Here, we identified peach PRAF/RLD proteins as interactors of the peach IGT/LAZY proteins PpeLAZY1 and DEEPER ROOTING 1 (PpeDRO1) from a yeast-two-hybrid screen. We also show that the BRX domains of these interacting proteins have high sequence similarity with PRAF/RLD and BRX family proteins from rice and Arabidopsis. Further, PpeLAZY1 and the peach PRAF/RLD interactors are all expressed at relatively high levels in leaf, meristem, and shoot tip tissues. Together, this evidence supports the importance and conservation of IGT/LAZY-BRX-domain interactions, which underlie setting gravitropic set point angle across angiosperms.

Autumn Cover Crops Increase Deep Root Growth of Soybean in no-Tillage System

Autumn Cover Crops Increase Deep Root Growth of Soybean in no-Tillage System

Improving the BRIS Soil management and practices for growing roselle (Hibiscus sabradiffa L.)

Beach ridges with interspersed swales (BRIS), commonly referred to as BRIS soil or sandy soil, are extensively distributed along the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Despite the challenging nature of the lowland agricultural soil, characterised by its sandy texture and sterility, agricultural activities on BRIS soils have experienced an upward trend in recent times. The objective of this study was to conduct a literature review on the challenges and possibilities of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) growth in the BRIS soil environment. Soil concerns can be classified into three categories: physical, chemical, and biological. The soil in BRIS is characterised by its acidic nature and low CEC values, with sand content occasionally reaching as high as 95 percent. Significant challenges associated with sandy soil conditions encompass soil water repellency (SWR), soil compaction, surface crust formation, soil erosion, low fertility, and Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) value, as well as nutrient leaching into the groundwater, leading to pollution. The roselle plant is currently being commercially cultivated in the state of Terengganu as a substitute for tobacco in BRIS soil. This is due to the plant's exceptional aeration and deep root zone. However, owing to its diminished fertility, its output is restricted. This book concentrates on the challenges related to BRIS soil and environmental concerns, including issues such as inadequate nutrient levels, weak soil structure, and excessive drainage. This review comprehensively elucidates the management strategies for sandy soil in the context of agricultural operations and evolving climatic conditions, thereby contributing to the advancement of research on the prospective cultivation of roselle.

Unearthing the Nutritional and Agricultural Value through Scientific Innovation in the Natural Gene Pool of Millets

This delves into the exploration of millets' natural gene pool, highlighting the pivotal role of scientific innovation in unlocking their nutritional and agricultural value. Millets, often overlooked, have demonstrated remarkable resilience to adverse environmental conditions, making them essential crops for ensuring food security in a changing climate. Their adaptability, deep root systems, and drought tolerance position millets as reliable sources of sustenance in water-stressed regions. Moreover, millets are nutritional powerhouses, offering essential nutrients such as protein, dietary fiber, B-complex vitamins, iron, and zinc. Their gluten-free nature enhances their accessibility and inclusivity in diverse dietary regimes. Millet farming practices align with sustainability goals by promoting biodiversity conservation, reducing chemical inputs, and fostering economic development for smallholder farmers. Governments worldwide are recognizing the potential of millets, implementing policies and initiatives to support their production and market development. As the global community seeks solutions to nutritional security and hidden hunger, millets emerge as a resilient and nourishing ally. The integration of millets into food systems, driven by research, investment, and policy support, offers a pathway to a sustainable, nourished, and equitable future.

New and previously described species of Ameloblastella (Monogenoidea: Dactylogyridae) parasitizing Hypophthalmus marginatus and Pimelodina flavipinnis (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae) from the Tocantins River, Maranhão State, Brazil.

A new and two previously described species of Ameloblastella Kritsky, Mendoza-Franco & Scholz, 2000 were found in the gills of two pimelodid catfishes from the Tocantins River, Maranhão State, Brazil: Ameloblastella prima n. sp. from Pimelodina flavipinnis Steindachner, and A. edentensis Mendoza-Franco, Mendoza-Palmero & Scholz, 2016 and A. peruensis Mendoza-Franco, Mendoza-Palmero & Scholz, 2016 from Hypophthalmus marginatus Valenciennes. The new species differs from its congeners by having an accessory piece tubular, covered by a delicate membranous cap at 2/3 of the length, by the shape of the ventral and dorsal anchors, in which the ventral anchor is represented by a curved shaft in a position of 80° degrees, with delicate ornamentations located at the superficial and deep root areas, and the dorsal anchor with a long, well-developed and convex superficial root and short deep root, also presenting delicate ornamentations at the superficial and deep root areas. The present study provides new biogeographical data on the two previously described species of Ameloblastella and improves the knowledge on the species of Monogenoidea from the Neotropical Region, increasing to 14 the number of known species of Ameloblastella for this region.

Opening up the subsoil: Subsoiling and bio-subsoilers to remediate subsoil compaction in three fodder crop rotations on a sandy loam soil

The intensification of modern arable farming has brought on a steady increase of the risk of soil compaction, while simultaneously pushing the impact deeper into the soil profile. In the subsoil, outside the reach of regular tillage operation, it can become exceedingly difficult to deal with compacted layers. Commonly, farmers turn towards mechanical remediation strategies, like subsoiling, to deal with this issue. However, the numerous drawbacks that come with these operations have prompted the search for more sustainable alternatives, like bio-subsoilers, which are deep-rooting plant species with the capacity to penetrate compacted subsoil layers. This study aimed at investigating both mechanical and biological remediation strategies in a side-by-side comparison. The effectiveness of subsoiling and the use of two deep rooting (cover) crops (i.e. alfalfa and fodder radish) as remediation measures to alleviate subsoil compaction was assessed in terms of soil quality indicators, like penetration resistance, bulk density, porosity, plant available water capacity, air capacity and air permeability at 35 and 45 cm depth, and the above- and belowground growth of the main crop. In addition, a combination of both subsoiling and use of deep rooting (cover) crops was included to evaluate the potential role of the latter in protecting the mechanically loosened subsoil from recompaction. This complex comparison was done in three distinct maize-based fodder crop rotations (rotation 1: maize monoculture; rotation 2: maize/winter cereal rotation with fodder radish as cover crop after winter cereal; rotation 3: maize/winter cereal/alfalfa rotation). The study field (sandy loam soil) was selected based on the presence of a highly compacted layer at the interface between topsoil and subsoil (30–50 cm). The experiment demonstrated that subsoiling is an effective remediation measure to disrupt heavily compacted layers in the upper-subsoil, at least in the short-term. The crop response was however highly variable and only positive when the opportunity of reaching the subsoil proved to be advantageous for the crop (i.e. dry season). Besides its high degree of variability between years, the effects also proved to be very short-lived under a standard arable fodder crop rotation. Including deep rooting (cover) crops, like fodder radish and alfalfa, and limiting the initial subsoil disruption helped to partially stabilize the disrupted subsoil and reduce recompaction. Fodder radish and alfalfa penetrated the compacted subsoil without previous disruption by subsoiling. However, this did not lead to a significant improvement of the measured soil physical parameters.

LEADER (Leaf Element Accumulation from DEep Roots): A nondestructive phenotyping platform to estimate rooting depth in the field

AbstractDeeper rooted crops are an avenue to increase plant water and nitrogen uptake under limiting conditions and increase long‐term soil carbon storage. Measuring rooting depth, however, is challenging due to the destructive, laborious, or imprecise methods that are currently available. Here, we present LEADER (Leaf Element Accumulation from DEep Roots) as a method to estimate in‐field root depth of maize plants. We use both X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy and ICP‐OES (inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy) to measure leaf elemental content and relate this to metrics of root depth. Principal components of leaf elemental content correlate with measures of root length in four genotypes (R2 = 0.8 for total root length), and we use linear discriminant analysis to classify plants as having different metrics related to root depth across four field sites in the United States. We can correctly classify the plots with the longest root length at depth (deeper than 30 or 40 cm) with high accuracy (accuracy >0.6) at two of our field sites (Hancock, WI and Rock Spring, PA). We also use strontium (Sr) as a tracer element in both greenhouse and field studies, showing that elemental accumulation of Sr in leaf tissue can be measured with XRF and can estimate root depth. We propose the adoption of LEADER as a tool for measuring root depth in different plant species and soils. LEADER is faster and easier than any other methods that currently exist and could allow for extensive study and understanding of deep rooting.

Enhancing Nutritional Security and Combating Hidden Hunger with Climate-Resilient Millets

Hidden hunger, characterized by a deficiency in essential micronutrients, persists as a critical global issue, undermining human health and well-being. Despite advancements in food production, millions suffer from the consequences of inadequate access to vital nutrients. To address this multifaceted challenge and fortify nutritional security, millets have emerged as a compelling solution. These small-seeded grains, known for their climate resilience, offer a potent means to mitigate hidden hunger while ensuring sustainable food systems. Millets have garnered attention for their exceptional adaptability to adverse environmental conditions, including drought and high temperatures. Their deep root systems enable them to thrive even in water-stressed regions, making them a reliable source of sustenance in a changing climate. As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the ability of millets to maintain food production under challenging conditions is of paramount importance. Beyond their adaptability, millets are nutritional powerhouses. They are replete with essential nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, B-complex vitamins, and crucial minerals such as iron and zinc. This nutritional profile positions millets as a valuable resource in addressing malnutrition and hidden hunger, which plague populations across the globe. Moreover, millets are gluten-free, offering an inclusive dietary option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. This aspect contributes to their accessibility and relevance in diverse dietary regimes, aligning with the principles of equitable food security. The cultivation of millets is also aligned with broader sustainability goals. Millet farming practices encourage biodiversity conservation, reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, and protect fragile ecosystems. Additionally, the economic and social benefits of millet production are significant, providing diversified income sources for smallholder farmers and rejuvenating rural communities. Governments and policymakers worldwide are increasingly recognizing the potential of millets in sustainable agriculture. Policies, subsidies, and initiatives are being introduced to support millet production, market development, and nutritional programs, fostering food security, climate resilience, and improved livelihoods. As the global community seeks sustainable solutions to hidden hunger and nutritional insecurity, millets stand as a resilient and nourishing ally. Harnessing their potential, along with continued research, investment, policy support, and heightened consumer awareness, is pivotal to securing a sustainable, nourished, and equitable future for all. In conclusion, the integration of millets into global food systems offers a pathway to enhance nutritional security, combat hidden hunger, and advance broader sustainability objectives.

Varietal Differences in the Root Systems of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Drip Irrigation with Plastic Film Mulch

With the escalating water scarcity in agriculture, a novel water-saving technique has emerged: drip irrigation with plastic film mulch (DI). Root function is crucial for sustaining rice production, and understanding its response to DI is essential. However, few studies have evaluated root systems in rice varietals and examined which kind of root system contributes to improving rice grain yield and water productivity in DI. If varietal differences of root reactions for water regimes were made clear, it might be more effective to find suitable varieties for DI and to improve grain yield in the DI system. To fill this knowledge gap, we conducted a two-year field experiment comparing two irrigation systems: continuous flooding (CF) and DI. We analyzed their effectiveness with four rice cultivars, including upland, F1 lowland, animal feed lowland, and lowland cultivars. Vertical root distribution, root bleeding rate, photosynthetic-associated parameters, water productivity, and yield performance were analyzed. In our study, the average grain yield of cultivars in the DI system (6.4 t/ha) was equivalent to those in the CF system (6.6 t/ha). The average water productivity under DI (0.34–0.75 kg m−3) demonstrated significant water-saving potential, saving approximately 35% of the total water supplied, resulting in higher water productivity compared to CF (0.27–0.51 kg m−3). Among the cultivars, the deep root weight of the upland cultivar significantly increased by 51% under DI compared to CF. The deep root ratio was positively correlated with the transpiration rate, grain yield, and water productivity, suggesting its contribution to high transpiration, thus maintaining a high carbon assimilation rate that results in high yield and water productivity. Therefore, deep roots are a notable trait corresponding to high yield under DI, and should be considered for the development of rice growth models for DI and the breeding of aerobic-adapted cultivars.

Garnet pyroxenites explain high electrical conductivity in the East African deep lithosphere

In Tanzania, the deep lithospheric mantle (> 70 km depth) is characterized by significantly higher electrical conductivity within the cratonic root than in the Mozambique belt. Such contrasts are typically attributed to changes in volatiles and/or melt content, with changes in mineralogy deemed insufficient to impact conductivity. To test this assumption, electrical conductivity measurements were conducted at pressure-temperature conditions relevant to the Tanzanian lithosphere (1.5 and 3 GPa; from 400 to >1500 °C) on dunite (depleted) and pyroxenite (fertile) xenoliths from Engorora, Northern Tanzania. Once garnet becomes stable in the fertile mantle rock (> 60 km, 1.7 GPa), it nucleates at grain boundaries, forming the backbone of a conductive network. At 3 GPa, such garnet-rich networks increase conductivity by a factor of 100 regardless of temperature. Numerical models demonstrate that the observed low (< 10−2 S⋅m−1) and high (> 10−1 S⋅m−1) conductivity values can be explained by low and high degrees of garnet connectivity, respectively. Such high electrical conductivities in cratonic roots can be explained by the presence of connected garnet clusters or garnet pyroxenites, suggesting mantle fertilization. This new source for electromagnetic signal generation at appropriate pressures and temperatures must be factored in where interpreting magnetotelluric signals at relevant depths in the lithosphere. Plain language summaryThe deep root of the Tanzanian craton is characterized by high electrical conductivity. In this study, we reproduce this anomaly in the laboratory. We use powders of Tanzanian xenoliths, which are natural rocks similar to what is expected in the deep Tanzanian lithosphere. Two extremes of mantle composition are tested: dunite and pyroxenite, respectively typical of a depleted mantle (already produced melts) and fertile mantle (high chemical diversity). Experiments at high pressures and temperatures representative of the deep Tanzanian lithosphere reveal that the high electrical conductivity is generated by the establishment of a connected network of garnet pyroxenites. Minerals such as garnet and pyroxenes are known to conduct electricity much better than olivine – the major component of most mantle rocks – especially when they contain limited amounts of hydrogen. This “water” is incorporated in crystals and at their boundaries and promotes high-conductivity pathways. A significant increase in conductivity occurs once the pressure is high enough for garnet to become stable. These results suggest that the composition of the deep cratonic root in Tanzania is closer to a pyroxenite than a peridotite. This difference in composition compared to the average mantle is expected as an impact of the East African superplume.

VETIVER (VETIVERIA ZIZANIOIDES L.) ECOTYPES ASSESSMENT FOR SALINITY TOLERANCE

Vetiver is one of the essential oil-producing plants, commonly called vetiver oil. With a deep, broad, and thick root system, the species is characteristically well-adapted to various environmental stresses, including salinity. The presented study strived to evaluate several vetiver ecotypes under diverse salinity stress conditions and identify the best with enhanced salinity tolerance. The said study continued in a completely randomized design (CRD) with factorial arrangement and two factors. The first factor was salinity stress comprising six varying levels, i.e., control (without salinity) and saline soils with 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 dsm-1. The second factor consisted of three vetiver ecotypes: Bogor, Bojonegoro, and Padang. The results revealed that salinity stress levels, ecotypes, and their interactions significantly affected the growth, physiological, and oil yield traits, such as plant height, leaf area, number of tillers, chlorophyll a and b, root length and volume, and oil yield. Salinity stress at 16 dsm-1 significantly impacted plant growth but enhanced chlorophyll a and b content. The ecotype Bojonegoro had better canopy growth, while the ecotype Padang had better root growth, resulting in higher oil production compared with the ecotype Bojonegoro. The ecotype Bojonegoro with 16 dsm-1 salinity stress significantly increased chlorophyll a and b content, and the ecotype Padang showed the highest oil production without salinity stress compared with salinity stress conditions.

Placing seeds with the embryo pointed down improves deep root growth in winter wheat under soil compaction stress

Placing seeds with the embryo pointed down improves deep root growth in winter wheat under soil compaction stress

Adopting normalized full gradient method for regional‐scale gravity modelling: A case study for Northwestern Iran

AbstractThe normalized full gradient was developed to determine anomalous bodies, such as oil and gas fields or simple geological structures studies. We believe that even in complicated geology, normalized full gradient is practical. We introduce data preprocessing and use step‐by‐step simple‐to‐complicated synthetic tests to develop previous researchers’ ideas for regional‐scale gravity modelling. One of the most important steps of the normalized full gradient is the determination of the N optimum value. We found that prevalent methods such as the standard spectral or maxima method are feasible in simple structures only. So, we have suggested the imaging criteria routine for complicated cases. We trace maximum normalized full gradient responses to detect the normalized full gradient responses at the increasing harmonic numbers as the transition of the extensive part of the anomaly to the sharp part of that. With imaging criteria for the determination of N optimum values, the complicated synthetic test results show the success of the normalized full gradient to understand complicated gravity signals. In the real case, we have studied the Northwestern Iran normalized full gradient model of the Bouguer ground gravity data beneath the seismic profile and prepared a P receiver function depth section to uncover the geometry of the Moho boundary and important interfaces in the crust. We suggest the inferred synthetic model from the Bouguer ground gravity anomaly and P receiver function depth section to normalized full gradient trustworthy test in real cases. According to the synthetic test results, we understand the frame of the normalized full gradient responses in the semi‐real case and truthful responses in the real case. Along with this, we study the second ground gravity profile of Northwestern Iran in a good resolution to uncover the deeper structures. The real case results show the possibility of Moho offset and thinning lithosphere beneath the North Tabriz Fault lithospheric boundary, the possible source of Sahand volcanic centre at the west side of the Moho offset beneath North Tabriz Fault, the deep root of the Sabalan volcanic centre in the lower crust and the lithospheric and asthenospheric wedge with the density contrast beneath Sahand–Sabalan volcanic centres. One of the most important results of our study is the lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary offset and stepped Moho possibility beneath the Talesh Mts next to the South Caspian Basin boundary.

Application of Perennial Sweet Pea in Soil and Water Conservation

To address the issue of soil erosion and limited economically valuable vegetation resources, perennial sweet peas were introduced to Hebei Province, China, and showed favorable biological attributes. Nevertheless, its specific efficacy within soil and water conservation endeavors requires further examination. This study selected four trial sites within Hebei Province to assess four-year-old perennial sweet peas’ soil and water conservation functionality. The findings underscored that cultivating perennial sweet pea plots on 9° disturbed slopes notably outperformed bare ground (CK) in their rainwater absorption capacity. Specifically, in the 0–20 cm soil layer, moisture increased from 10.51% to 17.39%, in the 20–40 cm layer from 10.63% to 17.25%, and in the 40–60 cm layer from 10.09% to 16.04%. The dense canopy formed by perennial sweet peas effectively intercepted 25–32% of precipitation. Fallen organic matter also demonstrated commendable water absorption features. During severe rain, the perennial sweet pea showcased a 90.4% runoff reduction and a notable sediment interception. Their deep and well-developed root system enhanced soil structure and infiltration. The outcomes of this study highlight the perennial sweet peas’ potential in soil erosion mitigation, rainwater retention, and soil improvement, which carries substantial implications for sustainable land management and ecosystem restoration initiatives. Furthermore, the successful introduction of perennial sweet peas could serve as a model for analogous ecological interventions in regions confronting similar challenges, offering holistic solutions to soil and water conservation in environmentally sensitive areas.

Potential use of wild Onobrychis species for climate change mitigation and adaptation

AbstractClimate change is threatening environmental and nutritional security. In this scenario, forage crops and their wild relatives may contribute to maintain ecosystem services and minimize the effects of global warming. We reviewed the literature regarding the ecological, agronomic, and nutraceutical values of wild Onobrychis Miller species (sainfoins, Family Fabaceae). We also discussed their application prospects and the existing problems hampering their widespread domestication. Wild species of the genus Onobrychis have some interesting agronomic and ecological features such as perenniality, deep root system, and high‐stress tolerance, which make them suitable for future cultivation under climate change. Wild Onobrychis species are multipurpose species, which can be utilized for fodder and honey production under harsh environmental conditions. In addition, wild Onobrychis species water, ethanol, and methanol extracts exhibit antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti‐inflammatory, antitumor, antimicrobial, anti‐stressor, and many other pharmacological effects. Wild Onobrychis species have not been the subject of detailed studies. Compared with the cultivated forage legumes, wild Onobrychis species are still underexploited despite their potential to alleviate forage and food insecurity, either by domestication or by providing novel alleles for breeding purposes of the cultivated species Onobrychis viciifolia. Our review aims to increase scientific awareness toward exploring the potential uses of wild Onobrychis species to tackle current climate change.

Exploring the Potential of Sunflowers: Agronomy, Applications, and Opportunities within Bio-Circular-Green Economy

The present review article is intended to provide comprehensive insights into the techniques of sunflower cultivation, methods of processing, and opportunities for value addition through a variety of applications. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is an economically valuable crop, admired for its vibrant yellow flowers and seeds rich in high-quality oil. The oil derived from sunflower seeds is nutritionally valued for its high content of unsaturated fatty acids, such as linolenic and linoleic acids, which help to reduce cholesterol levels and prevent arterial fat clots. Moreover, it contains essential vitamins A, D, E, and K. Sunflower cultivation primarily occurs in warm regions, aligning with the plant’s climatic preferences. As a short-lived plant, sunflowers demonstrate drought resilience due to their deep root system. In recent years, the use of sunflowers has significantly expanded, driving economic growth. The demand for products derived from sunflowers, including sprouts, roasted seeds, seed oil, and even sunflower-based agricultural tourism, has increased exponentially. Notably, sunflower seeds and their oil hold particular importance as they form the basis for integrated production systems, contributing to the creation of various food and non-food products. By presenting this information, we aim to provide a comprehensive guide for those interested in enhancing the utilization of sunflowers across various sectors.