Durum Research Articles

Nitrogen status of durum wheat derived from Sentinel-2 satellite data in Central Italy

In agriculture, nitrogen (N) is a key element in plant nutrition that affects, both positively and negatively, the productive and qualitative results of the crop. Accurate quantification of nitrogen levels is crucial for devising effective plant nutrition strategies. The objective of this study was to validate a novel method to estimate the N content at different phenological stages of durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf. cv. Iride) under different N management strategies (chemical synthetic fertilizer - SYN and organic fertilizer - ORG) in Italy, using the Nitrogen Nutrition Index (NNI)as a diagnostic tool for improving nitrogen fertilization timing and doses. The NNI is the ratio between the actual crop nitrogen content (Na) and the optimal level (Nc) required for ideal growth conditions.On ground level, Leaf Area Index (LAI) , Canopy reflectance, leaf chlorophyll content (LCC) and N concentration in leaves were measured. At landscape level, LAI and Canopy Chlorophyll Indices (CIs) were derived from Sentinel 2 (S2) multispectral images captured on the same days as the ground measurements: Chlorophyll Indexes were used for estimating the canopy chlorophyll content, CCC. Na in leaves and canopy were calculated from LCC and CCC respectively.In the study area, Nc is Nc=4.65LAI–0.35, R2=0.92. Among the tested Chlorophyll Indices (CIs) regression models, the linear regression was the more accurate to predict Na content, even though most of the tested Chlorophyll Indices (CIs) showed an R2 > 0.8,a. The best-performing spectral index in both calibration and validation steps resulted from the IRECI, with R2=0.90 and RMSE=0.31. The developed NNI well-captured the seasonal N dynamic for durum wheat, under different N management and meteorological conditions. The NNI calculated from S2 data for crop N status assessment, showed to be an accurate estimation of the Nitrogen Nutrition Index and can be used for the fertilization plans without costly on ground measurements.

Application of univariate, multivariate, and mixed models to the stability analysis of Ethiopian tetraploid wheat cultivars under irrigation condition

AbstractThe testing of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum subsp. durum) varieties in different irrigated environments is critical for determining the stability of their performance and adaptation. In this study, 12 popular and newly developed durum wheat varieties were examined in eight irrigated locations with the purpose of investigating genotype–environment interaction and their effect on Ethiopian tetraploid wheat yield stability across diverse environments. The field experiment has two replications with a randomized complete block design. Multivariate (analysis of variance, additive main effect and multiplicative interaction [AMMI], and genetics, genetics × environment [GGE] biplot) and univariate (bi [regression coefficient], S2d [deviation from regression], σi2 [Shukla's stability variance], Wi2 [Wricke's ecovalence], YSi [yield stability statistic], and CVi [coefficient of variance]) analysis methods were used to identify stable varieties. The AMMI analysis showed that the genetic × environmental interaction was highly significant (p > 0.01), while the genotype and environment variation were not significant. The first two principal component axes (IPCA1 and IPCA2) were highly significant (p > 0.01) and contributed 79% of the total GE interaction. Univariate statistical models indicate that Bulala is a stable, high‐yielding variety that can adapt to various environments. GGE biplot analysis revealed that the eight test environments were clustered into three mega‐environments, ranked Bulala as the most stable variety across diverse environments. The results of the combined mean analysis, multivariate and univariate models revealed that Bulala is a high yielder (3.46 tons ha−1) and stable variety across all test environments, while Mukiye variety has a high yield (3.43 tons ha−1) but is not as stable or adaptive to multiple locations. As a result, Bulala was recommended for further demonstration and popularization in test locations and places with similar agroecologies under irrigation.

QTaHa-5DL: another major QTL regulating wheat grain hardness

Grain hardness has important effects on grain quality and the end-use of wheat. In this study, a collection of 103 common wheat germplasms and a DH population of 194 lines were used to identify new quantitative trait loci (QTL) for grain hardness. Two stable genetic loci on chromosome 5D were detected under different locations and years with one of them being the Ha locus on 5DS where the major gene Puroindolines for wheat grain hardness is located. Another locus of qTaHa-5DL also showed a significant impact on grain hardness index (HI) with HI increasing from ~ 20 to ~ 45 and hardness type changing from soft to mixed when Puroindolines are wild type. A kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) marker for qTaHa-5DL was developed and the effectiveness of the QTL was confirmed in 184 breeding lines with the marker K-Ha5DL dividing wheat into two distinct categories. This new QTL can be effectively used to select soft or medium hard wheat.

The Management of Fungal Diseases in Organic Production Systems Through a Mixture of Durum Wheat Varieties

Fungal diseases are a yield-limiting factor for wheat. Their management in organic production systems is one of the prevailing challenges because it must be based mainly on indirect measures through agricultural practices. Variety mixtures are one of these practices, a concept that has been demonstrated to improve several factors affecting yield. Recently, it has become a practice that enables sustainability in agriculture. Our research aim is to evaluate the capacity of this practice to control three fungal diseases (foliar and ear) on durum wheat. This study was conducted over two consecutive years (2019 and 2020) at two locations: a certified organic farm in the Benslimane region (2019) and the National School of Agriculture farm in Meknes (2020). Four durum wheat varieties (Isly, Tarek, Karim, and Nassira) were used to create the mixture. The parameters that were monitored were the disease severity, the grain yield, and its components. The analysis of variance for the three fungal diseases’ severity was significant. The variety that showed resistance to all diseases was the Isly variety, and the most susceptible variety was the Nassira variety. The resistance of the other varieties to the diseases was variable from one year to the other. The mixture showed average severity values. It allowed a reduction in the severity of leaf rust of 47% during the first year and 30% during the second year compared to the most susceptible variety (Nassira). In the case of HLB (helminthosporiosis leaf blight), it reduced the disease by 47% during the first year and 34% during the 2020 season. For ear disease, Fusarium head blight (FHB), the reduction was 68% during the year 2019 and 49% during 2020. The mixture also ensured yield stability between the two trial years (1.66 t ha−1 and 1.54 t ha−1).

Unlocking the Potential of Teff for Sustainable, Gluten-Free Diets and Unravelling Its Production Challenges to Address Global Food and Nutrition Security: A Review

Sustainable diets, as defined by the Food and Agriculture Organisation, aim to be nutritionally adequate, safe, and healthy, while optimising natural and human resources. Teff (Eragrostis tef), a gluten-free grain primarily grown in Ethiopia, has emerged as a key contender in this context. Widely regarded as a “supergrain”, teff offers an outstanding nutrition profile, making it an excellent choice for people with gluten-related disorders. Rich with protein, essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fats, and fibre, and abundant in minerals like calcium and iron, teff rivals other popular grains like quinoa and durum wheat in promoting human health. Beyond its nutritional benefits, teff is a hardy crop that thrives in diverse climates, tolerating both drought and waterlogged conditions. Due to its resilience and rich nutrient content, teff holds the potential to address nine of the 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 2 (zero hunger), and SDG 3 (good health and wellbeing), which are tied to improving food and nutrition security. However, teff production in Ethiopia faces significant issues. Traditional farming practices, insufficient storage infrastructure, and food safety challenges, including adulteration, hinder teff’s full potential. This review explores teff’s dual role as a nutritious, sustainable food source and outlines the key challenges in its production to conclude on what needs to be done for its adoption as a golden crop to address global food and nutrition security.

Resistance of spring durum wheat varieties to stem rust on the background of natural infection

The scientific study presents the results and indicators of the cultivation of spring durum wheat in the world, the main varieties of spring durum wheat in the south-east of Kazakhstan, the development of stem rust on durum wheat varieties (Triticum durum Desf.), data on the stability of varieties in grain-bearing regions of the republic. Field experiments were conducted in the conditions of the foothill zone of the Almaty region in 2022. The object of research was 15 varieties of spring durum wheat of various origins: Gordeiforme 254, Nauryz 2, Nauryz 6, Seymour 17, Milana, Salauat, Zhakut 20 (Kazakh Research Institute of Agriculture and Plant Growing), Altyn dala, Asangali 20, Sharifa (Karabalyk Agricultural Station), Damsinskaya jubileinaya (A.I. Barayev Research and Production Centre for Grain Farming), Bezenchukskaya 182, Kanysh (Russia), Berillo (Italy), Kamillaroi (Australia).Under natural conditions, the manifestation of stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) on spring durum wheat varieties was late, in the phase of flowering and filling of plant grains. In the experience, many varieties of Kazakh and foreign breeding have shown moderate resistance and susceptibility to the disease. In the varieties Salauat and Zhakut 20, the initial and subsequent development of the disease did not exceed 20%, which is a sign of Slow rust development. With a strong lesion of the Nauryz 2 variety (60%), Gordeyforme 254, Milana, Nauryz 6, Damsinskaya jubileinaya, Altyn Dala, Asangali 20, Berillo and Kamillaroi were moderately susceptible. The Seymour 17, Sharifa and Kanysh varieties showed moderate resistance to stem rust.

World practice of wheat flour classification

The paper presents a review of wheat classification accepted in various countries — producers of wheat and products of its processing (USA, Canada, Italy, France, Germany, China and others). Much attention is given to differences in the classification systems. Criteria for assigning wheat to certain classes based on physical and chemical properties of grain are examined. Differences in wheat classification by types, including morphological features and merits of grain such as size, color and gluten content, are highlighted. The authors discuss specific requirements and norms of wheat quality dictated by the regulatory authorities and requirements of the market of each country such as the mass fraction of moisture, content of impurities, density of grain and others. Based on the analysis of wheat classification in various world countries, it has been concluded that it is necessary to establish unified and generally accepted systems of wheat classification. This will allow simplifying international grain trade, make the market more transparent, strengthen trust between exporting and importing countries and will also facilitate the development of the international cooperation in the sphere of production and processing of wheat flour. Despite the wide assortment of flour confectionery products on the Russian market, baker’s flour of general purpose is mainly produced in the country. Its specific feature is a high content of flour from hard wheat varieties that are distinguished by higher protein content, strong gluten and large particle size. By its properties, this flour is not suitable for production of most flour confectionery products. Flour confectionery products produced from it are significantly inferior to import analogues in terms of their quality characteristics, which reduces their competitiveness. This dictates the need for the development of a standard for flour intended for production of confectionery products, which will include physico-chemical indicators for various flour types with consideration for their purpose.

Development of gluten-free pasta with chickpeas as a wheat flour substitute and fortified with carob, beetroot, and spinach

The study aimed to develop pasta dough using chickpeas as a substitute for wheat flour and fortified with carob, beetroot, and spinach. Three formulations of gluten-free pasta were prepared: F1 (chickpea flour 97% + carob powder 2% + CMC1%), F2 (chickpea flour 87% + carob powder 2% + beetroot powder 10% + CMC1%) and F3 (chickpea flour 87% + carob powder 2% + spinach powder 10% + CMC1%). Physical, chemical, rheological, and sensory characteristics of chickpea pasta were evaluated and compared to semolina flour (CS) as a control. In comparison with conventional wheat pasta, chickpea pasta has a higher content of protein, fiber, and polyphenolic compounds. The results indicated that the incorporation of chickpea as a main ingredient significantly increased the content of protein in the formulations of gluten-free pasta (17.50, 15.05 and 14.88% in F1, F3, and F2, respectively) compared to CS (12.10%). A similar trend was observed for the fiber content (0.45, 1.89, 2.16, and 2.29 in CS, F1, F2, and F3, respectively) and polyphenolic compounds (109.14, 112.14, 141.89, and 178.96 in CS, F1, F2, and F3, respectively). Chickpea pasta demonstrated strong acceptance across all sensory criteria, including texture, odor, shape, and taste. Therefore, this study suggests that chickpeas can serve as an effective substitute for wheat, thereby increasing the availability of healthy options for everyone, particularly for those with celiac disease, obesity, or diabetes.

Insights into the influence of intercropping and arbuscular mycorrhizal inoculation on two modern durum wheat cultivars and their associated microbiota

Insights into the influence of intercropping and arbuscular mycorrhizal inoculation on two modern durum wheat cultivars and their associated microbiota

Durum wheat oil oleogels: A study on rheological, thermal, and microstructural properties

Durum wheat oil (WO) is a by-product obtained during wheat milling process characterized by higher amount of bioactive compounds. In recent years, oleogelification, a novel technique to structure oils was developed to replace saturated and trans fats. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performances of WO to obtain stable oleogels using two natural waxes (beeswax BW and carnauba wax CW) at different ratio (4, 7 and 8 %, w/w) respect to sunflower oil (SO) used as control. Oleogels were analyzed for fundamental rheological properties, microstructure and oil loss. Results showed as a concentration below 7 %, weak networks were observed for all samples because the predominance of viscous moduli (G’’) over elastic ones (G’) and high oil loss. Nevertheless at 8 % of waxes, stability in terms of all analyzed parameters was highlighted for all samples (WO_BW showed the lowest). Moreover, WO samples with 7 % and 8 % of CW displayed very high stability in terms of all considered parameters, also at high temperatures, showing strong networks and reaching the optimum solid-like gel without significant differences respect to SO one. Obtained results highlighted the WO ability to be employed, as alternative to SO to develop oleogels with optimal performances and stability.

Biochemical Analysis of Different Wheat Varieties Grown under Various Zones of India

Background: The study aimed to evaluate the flour quality of different wheat varieties (Triticum durum L.) for various end-use products such as chapati, bread, biscuits and pasta. The focus was on identifying varieties with superior nutritional and processing qualities by analyzing various qualitative parameters. Methods: The study assessed multiple wheat varieties using a range of qualitative parameters, including moisture, ash, total soluble sugar, starch, protein, lysine, tryptophan, dry and wet gluten, gluten index, water binding capacity, β-carotene content, sedimentation value, thousand kernel weight and mineral content (Fe and Zn). The wheat varieties evaluated included A-206, GW-1, HI 8498 (Kota), PDW 291 (Hissar) and NIDW 295 (Pune). Result: The study identified A-206 and GW-1 as wheat varieties with superior protein content, gluten quality and water binding capacity, making them ideal for various end-use products. A-206 also had the highest lysine and tryptophan levels, while GW-1 and HI 8498 (Kota) had elevated ash content. PDW 291 (Hissar) was notable for its higher total soluble sugar and NIDW 295 (Pune) excelled in starch content, β-carotene and thousand kernel weight. Overall, NIDW 295 showed the most promise for pasta production due to its comprehensive quality traits.

Reconciling plant and microbial ecological strategies to elucidate cover crop effects on soil carbon and nitrogen cycling

Abstract Plant economics, the way plants allocate and utilize resources, affect multiple soil processes through interactions with root and associated microbial communities. However, the interplay between plant economics and microbial ecological strategies remains poorly understood, which is crucial for integrated manipulation of plant‐ and microbe‐mediated functions in mitigating climate change and sustaining soil health. We used a field experiment with 11 cover crop species grown monocultures in the same base soil to test whether microbial ecological strategies are associated with plant economic strategies and if their interactions are linked to soil functions. A principal component analysis (PCA) was performed on root and leaf traits to identify the loadings of cover crop species on the plant trait space. Metagenomic analysis of rhizosphere microbial communities was conducted to infer their ecological strategies based on genetically encoded community‐aggregated traits. We found a synchronous relationship between the conservation gradient of plant economic strategies and the trade‐offs in microbial ecological strategies. Conservative plant strategists, such as Lolium multiflorum, Triticum turgidum and Brassica juncea, fostered microbial communities characterized by high growth yield potentials (Y‐strategies). This included increased microbial carbon fixation pathways, citrate cycle, ribosome and valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis. As a result, microbial metabolic efficiency improved, shown by higher microbial biomass carbon content and a lower metabolic quotient (qCO2), led to enhanced soil organic carbon accumulation. In comparison, acquisitive plants like Astragalus sinicus, Vicia villosa, Trifolium incarnatum and Medicago sativa stimulated microbial resource‐acquisition strategies (A‐strategies). This included enhanced bacterial chemotaxis, secretion systems, biotin metabolism and cell motility pathways, which in turn increased soil exoenzyme activity and accelerated soil nitrogen mineralization. Consequently, these species enhanced soil nitrogen availability and had substantial feedbacks on subsequent main crop productivity. Synthesis. This study demonstrates how plant economic strategies influence the balance between different microbial ecological strategies, specifically the trade‐offs in Y‐ and A‐strategies. These interactions exert control over carbon and nitrogen dynamics in the soil ecosystem. The findings provide insights for implementing nature‐based solutions to improve agroecosystem management practices.

Exploring seed characteristics and performance through advanced physico-chemical techniques

Simple physico-chemical techniques can be used to evaluate the composition, structure, and characteristics of plant seeds to determine their viability, quality, and possible uses in agriculture. Advanced analytical techniques, including thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), provide completely new insights and more precise information. They can be integrated to build up seed quality profiles, with great advantage to assess water content, organic compounds, and inorganic metals without the need to carry out many extraction procedures, as requested by more conventional methods. In this study, seed lots from three different plant species such as Triticum turgidum L. subsp. durum (wheat), Trigonella foenum graecum L. (trigonella or fenugreek), and Atriplex halimus L. (saltbush or sea orach) have been used to test the potential of TGA, EPR, and HPLC to discriminate between seed-specific features. A key finding of this study is that HPLC is essential in Principal Component Analysis (PCA) because various seeds (from the same species or other species) may contain compounds with varying polarity groups. The reported data confirm the efficacy of this approach. These data, fully available for other users, are coherently constructed and provide a proof of concept for future seed quality control studies.

Comparative Environmental Impact Assessment of Resistant Starch-Rich Pastas Produced from High-Amylose Soft Wheat or Malted Bean Flour

Flours rich in resistant starch (RS) are crucial for producing low glycemic index foods, as per Commission Regulation (EU) No. 432/2012. This study assessed the environmental profiles of two high-RS fresh pasta variants: one from malted and decorticated Gradoli Purgatory beans, and another from amylose-rich soft wheat flour, using the Product Environmental Footprint standard method. Both pastas had similar carbon footprints, but the overall weighted score of malted bean pasta was 38% higher than that of the high-amylose wheat pasta, making the latter more economically and environmentally viable. Climate change and water use were major contributors to their environmental footprints, influenced by cultivation practices. Mitigation strategies, such as cultivating drought-resistant beans, are recommended. Although greenhouse gas emissions per gram of protein or RS were similar, overall scores varied, emphasizing the need for sustainable crop selection. Consumer preferences may favor high-amylose wheat for glucose metabolism, while gluten-free, protein-rich needs can be met with malted bean flour, despite its higher environmental impact.

The first assessment of grain yield and associated traits in durum wheat across a decade in Nepal.

Rapid urbanization and evolving dietary preferences have heightened the demand for durum wheat and its derivatives in developing nations like Nepal. This study represents the first comprehensive exploration and evaluation of durum wheat genotypes in Nepal, addressing the escalating need for high-yielding varieties. The primary objective was to identify stable and prolific durum wheat lines for release, enhancing Nepal's durum wheat breeding program. Utilizing genotypes from CIMMYT's disease screening and yield nurseries from 2011/12 to 2020/21, a total of 132 genotypes, including international checks, underwent evaluation over ten years under the Alpha Lattice design. Results revealed significant variation among genotypes for grain yield and other traits, identifying high-yielding and stable lines suitable for Nepal. Heritability analysis highlighted moderate heritability for grain number per spike, thousand-grain weight, and grain yield. Cluster analysis identified distinct clusters with high grain yield and desirable agronomic traits. Disease incidence facilitated the selection of resistant lines, with DWK38 emerging as the highest grain yielder (4416.04 kg/ha). Overall, durum wheat lines from CIMMYT exhibited robust performance in Nepal, enabling the identification of superior lines with potential benefits for farmers and consumers. The study's implications include developing and releasing superior durum lines in Nepal, providing farmers with profitable alternatives amidst evolving food habits. In conclusion, the findings from this study provide a valuable foundation for future durum wheat breeding efforts in Nepal, guiding the selection of genotypes that are well-suited to the diverse environmental challenges of the region.

Study of the varietal behavior of 07 durum wheat varieties (Triticum durum Desf.) in the Oued Righ Valley (ITDAS Station)

Cereal production in the Oued Righ Valley is limited by several factors, including high temperatures and the salinity of irrigation water. These constraints cause significant variations in crop behavior and yield. This study aims to evaluate the performance of seven durum wheat varieties at the El Arfiane demonstration and seed production farm (ITDAS) in the Oued Righ Valley in the south East of Algeria. The evaluation focuses on morphological parameters and yield components To identify the variety or varieties that demonstrate favorable performance and yield, thus encouraging local farmers to cultivate them. The results of this study indicate significant differences in morphological parameters such as plant height, spike length, number of spikes per square meter, and number of grains per spike. However, other measured parameters, such as the number of tillers per plant, thousand-grain weight TGW, grain yield, and harvest index, The methodology employed in this study follows a completely randomized block design with three replications. The experimental design includes a set of experimental units arranged in blocks, with treatments randomly assigned within each block, hence the term "completely randomized block." Each treatment appears only once in each block. The blocks are typically placed contiguously to facilitate observations and task execution. This design is widely used in agronomy as it simplifies task execution and the comparison of treatments. Despite an acceptable thousand-grain weight this year, ranging from 37.06g for variety T4 to 27.6g for variety T1, the yields were low. The highest biological yield was 33.11 quintals per hectare for variety T5, while the lowest yield was 11.39 (T2) quintals per hectare. Several factors, including pigeon attacks and harvest losses, contributed to the reduced real yield.

Effect of Bio-Herbicide Application on Durum Wheat Quality: From Grain to Bread Passing through Wholemeal Flour

Using plant extracts to replace traditional chemical herbicides plays an essential role in sustainable agriculture. The present work evaluated the quality of durum wheat cv Valbelice in two years (2014 and 2016) using plant aqueous extracts of sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) and mugwort (Artemisia arborescens L.) as bio-herbicides on the main quality characteristics of durum wheat. The untreated, water-treated, and chemically treated durum wheat products were also analyzed as controls. Following the official methodologies, grain commercial analyses and defects of the kernels were determined. The main chemical and technological features were determined on the wholemeal flour: proteins, dry matter, dry gluten, gluten index, colorimetric parameters, mixograph, falling number, and sedimentation test in SDS. An experimental bread-making test was performed, and the main parameters were detected on the breads: bread volume, weight, moisture, porosity, hardness, and colorimetric parameters on crumb and crust. Within the two years, grain commercial analyses of the total five treatments showed no statistically significant differences concerning test weight (range 75.47–84.33 kg/hL) and thousand kernel weight (range 26.58–35.36 kg/hL). Differently, significant differences were observed in terms of kernel defects, particularly starchy kernels, black pointed kernels, and shrunken kernels, mainly due to the year factor. Analyses on the whole-grain flours showed significant differences. This affected dry gluten content (7.35% to 16.40%) and gluten quality (gluten index from 6.44 to 45.81). Mixograph results for mixing time ranged from 1.90 min to 3.15 min, whilst a peak dough ranged from 6.83 mm to 9.85 mm, showing, in both cases, statistically significant differences between treatments. The falling number showed lower values during the first year (on average 305 s) and then increased in the second year (on average 407 s). The sedimentation test showed no statistically significant differences, ranging from 27.75 mm to 34.00 mm. Regarding the bread produced, statistically significant year-related differences were observed for the parameters loaf volume during the first year (on average 298.75 cm3) and then increased in the second year (on average 417.33 cm3). Weight range 136.85 g to 145.18 g and moisture range 32.50 g/100 g to 39.51 g/100 g. Hardness range 8.65 N to 12.75 N and porosity (range 5.00 to 8.00) were closely related to the type of treatment. Finally, the color of flour and bread appeared to be not statistically significantly affected by treatment type. From a perspective of environmental and economic sustainability, the use of plant extracts with a bio-herbicidal function could replace traditional chemical herbicides.

Effect of orange-fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas)-Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) composite flour on quality properties of pasta.

Non-wheat flours are gaining attention as substitutes for wheat flour, offering the potential to optimize local resource utilization and alleviate the demand for wheat. The study investigates the use of non-wheat flours, particularly a blend of orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) (Ipomoea batatas) and Bambara groundnut (BG) (Vigna subterranean), as a partial replacement for wheat flour in pasta production. The aim is to improve the utilization of local resources, reduce the reliance on wheat, and enhance the nutritional quality of pasta. The production of OFSP and BG flour took place at Agricultural Research Council Roodeplaat Campus. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance, and significant means were separated using the Duncan multiple range test. The research found that pasta made from composite flour significantly influenced its composition and cooking characteristics when compared to 100% wheat pasta. The most nutritionally enriched pasta was achieved with a blend of 50% wheat, 25% OFSP, and 25% BG, featuring higher protein, ash, and fiber content. Consumers preferred pasta made from a composite flour of 70% wheat, 15% OFSP, and 15% BG. This research suggests the potential for producing pasta using OFSP and BG composite flour as a viable option. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The practical application of the research on orange-fleshed sweet potatoes-Bambara groundnut-based pasta has the potential to improve nutrition, stimulate local economies, enhance agricultural sustainability, and promote food security in regions where vitamin A deficiency is a concern and wheat importation is high.

Allelopathic Potential of Volatile Oils from Mentha piperita and Chrysanthemum coronarium Growing in Western Algeria

Background: The allelopathic effects of the essential oils of M. piperita and C. coronarium on seed germination of two wheat species qualify them as bio-herbicides. Objective: In order to search for natural plant-based products that may have herbicidal action, we selected two plant species, M. piperita and C. coronarium, to evaluate the allelopathic potential of their essential oils on wheat seed germination of two wheat species. Methods: Aerials parts of M. piperita and C. Coronarium were subjected to hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus to extract essential oils, followed by characterization using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Bioassays were conducted with ethanol as the organic solvent, employing three concentrations (0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 μl/ml of oil/ethanol) to assess their effects on the seed and seedling growth of two wheat species. Results: Under laboratory conditions, extracts of Mentha piperita and Chrysanthemum coronarium oils at varying concentrations (0.25 μl, 0.5 μl, and 0.75 μl) were examined for their effects on two wheat species (Triticum durum L. and Triticum aestivum L.). The yields of the obtained oils were 1.19% and 0.25%, respectively. The chemical composition of the essential oils extracted from M. piperita and C. coronarium was dominated by oxygenated monoterpenes, representing 97.5% and 94.9%, respectively. The tested essential oils strongly inhibit seed germination and seedling growth (root length LR and shoot length LPA) of both wheat species studied. The inhibition increased as the oil concentration increased, although this increase differed between the two species. This study has shown that the tested essential oils possess an interesting inhibitory allelopathic potential. result: The oils extracts of M. piperita and C. coronarium at different concentrations (0.25 μl, 0.5 μl, and 0.75 μl) were tested on two varieties of wheat (Triticum durum L. and Triticum aestivum L.) under laboratory conditions. The yields of the obtained oils are 1.19% and 0.25%, respectively. The chemical composition of the essential oils (EOs) of M. piperita and C. coronarium is dominated by oxygenated monoterpenes, representing 97.5.% and 94.9%, respectively. The tested EOs strongly inhibit seed germination and seedling growth (LR and LPA) of both wheat varieties studied. The inhibition increases as the oil concentration increases, although this increase is not comparatively similar for the two species. This study has shown that the tested EOs possess an interesting inhibitory allelopathic potential. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that the tested essential oils possess promising allelopathic properties, suggesting them as natural bio-herbicides.

Genotype-Environment Interaction and Phenotypic Stability Analysis for Grain Yield of Durum Wheat in the Misurata Region

تهدف هذه الدراسة إلى تقييم التداخل بين التركيب الوراثي (GE)، والبيئة، وتحديد سلالات القمح الصلب (Triticum turgidum var. durum) المناسبة لإنتاج الحبوب في منطقة مصراتة - ليبيا. تم تقييم خمس عشرة سلالة، وصنف من القمح الصلب تحت الري التكميلي باستخدام تصميم القطاعات الكاملة العشوائية بثلاث مكررات. نفذت الدراسة لمدة 5 سنوات. وتم تحليل التداخل GE باستخدام تقنيات الانحدار الخطي. أوضحت النتائج وجود فروق معنوية عالية في صفة إنتاج الحبوب بين التراكيب الوراثية. أجري تقدير الثباتية وفقًا لتحليل الثبات باستخدام طريقة Eberhart، و Russell، كان التركيب الوراثي G9 هو الأكثر استقرارًا في صفة إنتاج محصول الحبوب. معامل الانحدار للسلالة G9 كان وحدة تقريبًا (bi = 1) وسجل أدنى انحراف عن معامل الانحدار (S2di) . في المقابل، أظهرت السلالات G10، و G3 معامل انحدار أكبر من 1.0، مما يشير إلى تأثرهما الكبير بالتغيرات البيئية لصفة محصول الحبوب. سجل أعلى محصول للسلالات G10، وG9بـ 3.65، و 3.19 طن/هكتار على التوالي متوسطا لكل البيئات. أظهرت السلالة G10 أعلى محصول للحبوب، ومعامل انحدار أكبر من الواحد، مما يشير إلى أنها حساسة للتغير البيئي، ويمكن التوصية بها تحت ظروف الزراعة المروية.