Extensive Root Research Articles

Ecological Consequences of Invasive Weeds: Zimbabwean Experience: A Review

Invasive weeds may be defined as troublesome or unsightly plants growing in abundance in both upland and aquatic situations where they are not wanted. The establishment of invasive species cause elevated destruction of waterways, disrupted fire regimes, and the loss of biodiversity in many natural and agrarian ecosystems. <i>Tithonia diversifolia</i> is one of the largest, aggressive colonizers especially in sun-exposed abandoned sites. The impact of this weed result in economic loss through controlling and abandonment of agrarian land. The menace of <i>Tithonia diversifolia</i> is reaching alarming proportions in many parts of the world, especially in Zimbabwe where they have led to serious ecological and economic losses. Invasion of both upland and aquatic ecosystem by weeds, has undergone serious ecological changes including over-exploitation of its natural resources and land degradation of both agrarian and natural ecosystem, and invasion by <i>Tithonia diversifolia</i> among others. <i>Tithonia diversifolia</i> The presence of the invasive weed was viewed as a universal threat to crop farming and ranching enterprises because invasive weeds alter forage quantity or quality for livestock and therefore reduce net revenue. The invasive nature of <i>T diversifolia</i>, its ability to produce a large biomass and possession of an extensive root system has made it a good candidate for remediation of polluted environments. This invasive weed has been implicated in allelopathy as it produces a myriad of phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, tannins and terpenoids there by creating its novel niche. <i>Tithonia diversifolia</i> after Invasive weeds have the potential for exploitation animal feed, human food, soil additives, fuel production, wastewater treatment, source of raw materials and habitat to many organisms. This paper reviews the ecological consequences of invasive weeds with examples from some selected fields and special reference to <i>Tithonia diversifolia</i>.

Transcriptional Profiling Analysis Providing Insights into the Harsh Environments Tolerance Mechanisms of Krascheninnikovia arborescens.

Krascheninnikovia arborescens, an endemic shrub in China, thrives in desertification-prone environments due to its robust biomass, hairy leaves, and extensive root system. It is vital for ecological restoration and serves as a valuable forage plant. This study explored the molecular mechanisms underlying K. arborescens' adaptation to desert conditions, focusing on its physiological, biochemical, and transcriptomic responses to drought, salt, and alkali stresses. The results revealed that the three stresses have significant impacts on the photosynthetic, antioxidant, and ion balance systems of the plants, with the alkali stress inducing the most pronounced changes and differential gene expression. The clustering and functional enrichment analyses of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) highlighted the enrichment of the induced genes in pathways related to plant hormone signaling, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and transcription factors following stress treatments. In these pathways, the synthesis and signal transduction of abscisic acid (ABA) and ethylene, as well as the flavonoid and lignin synthesis pathways, and transcription factors such as MYB, AP2/ERF, bHLH, NAC, and WRKY responded actively to the stress and played pivotal roles. Through the WGCNA analysis, 10 key modules were identified, with the yellow module demonstrating a high correlation with the ABA and anthocyanin contents, while the turquoise module was enriched in the majority of genes related to hormone and phenylpropanoid pathways. The analysis of hub genes in these modules highlighted the significant roles of the bHLH and MYB transcription factors. These findings could offer new insights into the molecular mechanisms that enable the adaptation of K. arborescens to desert environments, enhancing our understanding of how other desert plants adapt to harsh conditions. These insights are crucial for exploring and utilizing high-quality forage plant germplasm resources and ecological development, with the identified candidate genes serving as valuable targets for further research on stress-resistant genes.

The golden batch-driven root cause analysis for anomalies in bioreactor fermentation process

Bioreactors are essential for the production of biopharmaceuticals and bioproducts, requiring continuous monitoring to ensure quality assurance. Manual processes in manufacturing plants often lead to anomalies such as out-of-trend and out-of-spec incidents, necessitating extensive root cause analysis that typically takes 2–8 weeks. This paper introduces an innovative methodology that uses the golden batch profile as a benchmark to identify deviations and root causes in subsequent industrial batches. The methodology involves normalizing the data and calculating the variances of a specified batch from the golden batch profile. By examining the contribution of each critical process parameter to these variances, the study highlights their importance in root cause analysis. The application of this methodology to the IndPenSim dataset demonstrated its effectiveness by significantly reducing false positives and negatives compared to traditional PCA-based methods. Emphasis on the deviations of critical quality attributes and critical process parameters from the specified batch compared to the golden batch profile offers valuable insights into industrial process analysis. This approach not only enhances anomaly detection accuracy but also improves the efficiency and reliability of biopharmaceutical and bioproduct manufacturing processes.

Growth Promotion and In vitro Seed Germination of Lycium barbarum L. (Red Goji) Using Different Types of Cytokinins.

Lycium barbarum L., commonly known as red goji berry, is a widely recognized plant-based medicinal herb with nutritional and therapeutic properties. In this study, the effects of various cytokinins on the germination of L. barbarum seeds and the growth of seedlings were investigated under in vitro conditions. The berries were first surface sterilized and dissected, and the seeds were then cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with different concentrations (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mg/L) of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), thidiazuron (TDZ), and kinetin (KIN) for 10 weeks at 25±2ºC with a photoperiod of 16 hours and a light intensity of 1000 lux. Upon observation after 10 weeks of culture, all cytokinin-treated cultures produced 100% seed germination as early as 7 days. KIN at 0.5 mg/L produced plantlets with the greatest height (8.40 ± 0.97 cm) with extensive rooting and the greatest total chlorophyll production. Besides, KIN at 1.5 mg/L resulted in the highest number of leaves per plantlet (6.90 ± 0.72), while 1.0 mg/L of TDZ led to the greatest biomass, i.e., fresh weight (FW) of 0.328 ± 0.05 gram and dry weight (DW) of 0.023 ± 0.003 gram. All cytokinins used in this experiment (BAP, TDZ, and KIN) promoted different in vitro growth promotion responses in L. barbarum. The effects of different types and concentrations of cytokinin on the height of plantlets, number of leaves per plantlet, fresh and dry weight, the extent of rooting, and the chlorophyll content were demonstrated to be statistically significant. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing in vitro cultivation techniques for goji berry propagation, which could contribute to developing superior cultivars and increased production of this superfruit in the future. For future perspectives, extended research in elucidating the underlying mechanism associated with cytokinin supplementation is imperative to understanding the roles of cytokinins and optimizing their effects on plant growth promotion.

Econometric Analysis and Intercropping Nutri-Cereals with Legumes (Urad Bean, Arhar) on Climate Resilience in North Eastern Zone of Tamil Nadu

Background: Nutri cereal - Legume intercrop systems are particularly beneficial in North Eastern Zone of Tamil Nadu, which are characterized by high levels of malnutrition, resource limitation and rainfall variability. These conditions are further exacerbated by climate-related risks and uncertainty. Apart from enhancing water and nutrient use efficiency, improving soil fertility and financial gains, Millet-legume intercrop systems have become a better bet for increased food and nutrition security in marginal farming communities. Methods: A study conducted during the year of 2022 to 2024 at the Center of Excellence in Millet, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Athiyandal, Tamil Nadu. The study evaluated various intercropping ratios of finger millet with black gram and red gram across seven treatments, focusing on productivity, compatibility and economic viability. Result: Results indicated that intercropping finger millet with black gram at a 4:1 ratio produced taller plants (92.7 cm), more protective tillers (5.7 per plant), extensive root systems (19.9 cm), and higher chlorophyll content (3.67 mg/g). This combination resulted in the highest equivalent grain yield (2895 kg/ha) and demonstrated a favourable benefit-to-cost ratio (2.84), highlighting its potential for improving profitability and soil fertility. Conversely, intercropping with red gram yielded lower finger millet yields and less favourable economic returns, underscoring the importance of selecting suitable intercrops to maximize agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Aortic Homografts in Surgical Management of Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis: A Case Series from Greece.

BACKGROUND Infective endocarditis (IE) is a severe, life-threatening, and relatively common complication after valve replacement operations, with incidence rates varying between 1.8% and 5.8%, with an in-hospital mortality rate of up to 20%. Common microorganisms are (listed by decreasing incidence) Streptococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococci, bacteria of the HACEK group, and fungi. Treatment of IE is complex, typically involving prolonged courses of antibiotics. However, in cases of aortic prosthetic valve endocarditis, root abscess formation with involvement of the aorto-mitral skeleton is not uncommon and complex surgical intervention is required. One of the notable advancements in surgical management is the use of homografts for aortic root endocarditis. CASE REPORT We report the first case series of 8 patients successfully operated on for prosthetic valve endocarditis with extensive aortic root abscess formation in Greece at Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center with the use of aortic homograft. All cases were redo surgeries and had good outcomes. Interestingly, one of the cases had extensive aortic root involvement with abscess formation extending to the aorto-mitral fibrous skeleton, requiring aortic root replacement with homograft, aorto-mitral skeleton reconstruction with bovine pericardium and mitral valve replacement with a mechanical prosthesis. Two other patients required concomitant coronary bypass grafting of the right coronary artery with reversed saphenous vein grafts. CONCLUSIONS Aortic root replacement with aortic homograft is the preferred choice for prosthetic valve endocarditis with aortic root abscess formation. Despite the technical complexity needed for implantation, this option offers a second chance for survival in patients with this challenging condition.

Assessment of urbanization impacts on soil erosion and groundwater recharge in Enugu, Southeastern Nigeria

The study of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) in Enugu, southeastern Nigeria, is crucial for understanding its effects on erosion and groundwater recharge. Different LULC types, coupled with varying slope gradients and soil types, create a complex interaction that influences soil stability and water infiltration in the region. This research aims to assess the distribution of LULC types, slope gradients, and soil types in Enugu, and to evaluate their impacts on erosion rates and groundwater recharge potential. Data for LULC, slope gradients, and soil types were collected and analyzed to determine their spatial distribution and characteristics. The study employed GIS techniques to map these variables and assess their interactions. Erosion potential and groundwater recharge capacity were evaluated based on the characteristics of the LULC types, slopes, and soils. The analysis revealed that trees cover the largest area (3709.74 km²), playing a significant role in stabilizing the soil and reducing erosion through their extensive root systems and canopy cover. Rangeland (2631.81 km²) also contributes to soil stability, although less effectively than forested areas. Crops (192.40 km²) have mixed impacts on erosion depending on agricultural practices. Built areas (1162.69 km²) present challenges due to impervious surfaces, which increase surface runoff and reduce groundwater recharge. Slope gradients were found to correlate with erosion processes and groundwater dynamics. Gentle slopes (0 - 1.81 degrees) cover 1870.15 km² and facilitate infiltration, enhancing groundwater recharge. Moderate slopes (1.81 - 4.06 degrees), covering 3275.46 km², are more prone to erosion, while steeper slopes (4.06 - 11.73 degrees) covering 2176.54 km² experience accelerated runoff and increased erosion rates. The steepest slopes (11.73 - 44.06 degrees) are the most erosion-prone areas, requiring significant intervention. The soil analysis showed that Dystric Nitosols (4052.80 km²) with the lowest K-factor (0.0178) are least prone to erosion and have high infiltration capacity, making them beneficial for groundwater recharge. Plinthic Acrisols (2732.53 km²) and Ferric Acrisols (102.36 km²) exhibit moderate erosion susceptibility. Dystric Fluvisols (793.92 km²) with the highest K-factor (0.0223) are highly erosion-prone. Gleysols (20.69 km²) have low to moderate erosion susceptibility. The interplay between LULC types, slope gradients, and soil types significantly influences erosion and groundwater recharge in Enugu. The study highlights the need for targeted land management practices, such as afforestation, contour farming, terracing, and the use of cover crops to mitigate erosion and enhance groundwater recharge. This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the relationships between LULC, slope gradients, and soil types in Enugu, offering valuable insights for developing effective land management strategies to address erosion and groundwater recharge challenges.

In Planta Androgenesis (Paternal Origin) in Saacharum X Erianthus Intergeneric Hybrid

The present investigation was carried in crosses made between Saccharum species hybrid clones i.e. Co 419, Co 7201 and Co 7224 (2n = 108-112) and Erianthus arundinaceus viz. IK 76-91 (2n = 60) and IK 76-99 (2n = 60) for introducing better ratoon ability, vigour, wide ecological adaptability, extensive root system, drought and water logging resistance, high biomass and disease resistance into modern sugarcane cultivars during 2020-23 at VSI-Sugarcane Breeding Centre, Amboli. Parental apomixis (paternal origin) has been recently noticed and it is unique in Saccharum X Erianthus intergeneric cross seedlings. A total of fifty-one seedlings were obtained from above three intergeneric crosses and out of these eighteen seedlings were reported as androgenetic seedlings as the female act as a surrogate mother. At the early stages, seed germination of seedlings was found two types i.e., one type resembling Saccharum and other resembling Erianthus with deep purple coloration. Morphologically androgenetic seedlings were similar to the male parents IK 76-91 and IK 76-99 with tall large tufted grass like clumps, vegetative stem with thick reproductive buds, root zone narrow and only one row of root eyes, the lamina gradually passes into leaf sheath with no auricle and dewlaps. Cytological studies were made in these seedlings and during metaphase the somatic chromosome number was observed to be 2n = 60 rather than expected 2n = 84-90. This paternal origin may be due to the ability of Erianthus male gametes to produce an embryo within the seed tissues of Saccharum species hybrids but without genetic contribution of the seed. Thus, in planta androgenesis is achieved through the combination of embryogenic behavior of male gametes which has entered in the ovule and the ability of ovules to act as a surrogate mother. They could derive either from the fusion of two male gametes or from the early natural diplodization of the haploid embryo. Such homozygous true breeding seedlings of Saccharum X Erianthus with hybrid vigour are extremely important in crop improvement. This system provides an unparalleled opportunity to shorten the breeding cycle and fix agronomic traits in the homozygous state. These androgenetic plants with Saccharum cytoplasm and Erianthus genome are male sterile making them highly useful for further hybridization and sugarcane improvement programme.

Variation and coordination among the plant functional traits of three coexisting shrub species in arid conditions

Functional traits are critical indicators for assessing and predicting plant environmental adaptations and survival strategies. However, less attention has been paid to root functional traits due to the costly and destructive nature of field excavations. This has resulted in a poor understanding of organ trait associations and vegetation survival strategies, particularly for plants in arid environments. In this study, we investigated 11 classical plant functional traits (leaf, stem, and root) and the intact root systems of three dominant coexisting shrubs, Calligonum mongolicum, Nitraria sphaerocarpa, and Haloxylon ammodendron, in a typical oasis–desert ecotone in northwestern China. These three coexisting shrubs generally converge on conservative resource strategies with dimorphic root systems and small leaf mass fractions to cope with strong habitat filtering and survive in arid environments. However, we found significant interspecific divergences in functional traits. Specifically, C. mongolicum had the most conserved traits, the medium root depth (370 cm), and the highest root-shoot ratio (1.72). H. ammodendron had relatively conserved traits, with the most extensive root depth (420 cm, access to groundwater) and the lowest root–shoot ratio (0.45). N. sphaerocarpa had the least conservative traits, the shallowest root depth (200 cm), and the medium root–shoot ratio (1.14). These divergences promote ecological niche segregation and ensure the stable coexistence of shrubs in this resource-limited environment. In contrast to the whole-plant economics spectrum, there was limited coordination between aboveground and belowground functional traits across the three species. Therefore, it is speculated that the different organs of these three species may operate independently to manage different constraints. The deep-rooted H. ammodendron is highly dependent on groundwater; therefore, planting them extensively in the ecotone may increase local groundwater consumption, resulting in the severe degradation of these species, particularly in the context of consecutive oasis expansion and intensified climate change. These results are expected to contribute to the development of effective ecosystem restoration and afforestation practices in such oasis–desert ecotones.

Effect of Zinc on Germination, Growth Yield of (Solanum melongena L.)

Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is an economically significant crop, valued for its culinary versatility and nutritional content. Understanding the factors that influence its growth is crucial for optimizing agricultural practices and improving yield. Zinc, an essential micronutrient, plays a vital role in various physiological processes within plants, including enzyme activation, photosynthesis, and hormone regulation. This study investigated the effect of zinc supplementation on the growth parameters of eggplant. The experiment was conducted in Botany Lab of Maharishi University of Information Technology, Lucknow in earthen Pots filled with garden soil. Where eggplant seedlings were subjected to different levels of zinc supplementation. Parameters such as plant height, leaf area, root development, and biomass accumulation were measured at regular intervals over the growth period. Results indicated a significant positive correlation between zinc concentration and various growth parameters of eggplant. Seedlings treated with higher zinc concentrations, enhanced leaf expansion, and more extensive root systems compared to those with lower or no zinc supplementation. Furthermore, zinc-treated eggplants displayed improved resistance to certain environmental stressors, suggesting a potential role of zinc in enhancing plant resilience. These findings underscore the importance of adequate zinc supply in promoting the growth and development of eggplant crops, thereby contributing to higher yields and improved agricultural sustainability. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of zinc-mediated growth enhancement in eggplant and optimize zinc application strategies for maximum benefit.

Soil Microbial Community Structures under Annual and Perennial Crops Treated with Different Nitrogen Fertilization Rates

Perennial bioenergy crops may enhance microbial community structures due to their extensive root system compared to annual crops. However, the long-term effect of perennial bioenergy crops receiving different N fertilization rates on microbial community structures is not well defined. We evaluated the 11-year effect of perennial bioenergy crops with various N fertilization rates as well as an annual crop with the recommended N rate on soil microbial properties in 2019 and 2020 in the US northern Great Plains. Perennial grasses were intermediate wheatgrass, IWG (Thinopyrum intermedium [Host] Barkworth and Dewey), and switchgrass, SG (Panicum virgatum L.), with N fertilization rates of 0, 28, 56, and 84 kg N ha−1, and the annual crop was spring wheat, WH (Triticum aestivum, L.) with 80 kg N ha−1. The total fungal phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) proportion and fungal/bacterial ratio were significantly lower under annual spring wheat than perennial grass (SG). Increased N fertilization rate linearly increased Gram-positive bacterial PLFA proportions and the Gram-positive/Gram-negative bacterial ratio for IWG in 2020 but decreased the PLFA proportions of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) for both perennial bioenergy crops in all years. The proportions of AMF neutral lipid fatty acid and Gram-negative bacterial PLFA were greater for SG (0.432 and 0.271, respectively) than IWG (0.339 and 0.258, respectively), but actinomycetes and the Gram-positive/Gram-negative bacterial ratio were greater for IWG (0.160 and 1.532, respectively) compared to SG (0.152 and 1.437, respectively). Microbial community structures varied with perennial bioenergy crops, N fertilization rates, and perennial vs. annual crops. This study showed how perennial crops favored fungal growth and how annual crops enhanced bacterial growth impacting soil biological health.

Nematode community structure suggests perennial grain cropping cultivation as a nature‐based solution for resilient agriculture

AbstractIntroductionConventional agricultural land‐use may negatively impact biodiversity and the environment due to the increased disturbances to the soil ecosystem by tillage, for example. Cultivation of the perennial grain intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium, IWG, Kernza®) is a nature‐based solution for sustainable agriculture, improving nutrient retention mainly through its extensive root system. Nematodes serve as sensitive bioindicators, detecting early changes in the soil food web, reflecting in changes in their community structure.Materials and MethodsIWG and annual wheat sites in South France, Belgium and South Sweden were investigated in April 2022 for two depths (5–15 cm; 25–35 cm) to evaluate the difference in nematode community structure among the cropping systems.ResultsSites with IWG cultivation held an accumulation of structure indicators (c‐p 3–5 nematodes) compared to sites with annual wheat cultivation. A generalised linear mixed model revealed significantly more root feeders, especially for the subsoil, under IWG as a result of the perennial cultivation. The maturity index, plant‐parasitic index, channel index and structure index were greater for IWG sites. The enrichment index was greater for annual wheat sites due to the dominance of bacterivores and enrichment indicators (c‐p 1 nematodes). The nematode community structure (weighted faunal profile analysis) indicates IWG sites as being a generally undisturbed system with efficient nutrient cycling and balanced distribution of feeding types, as well as higher metabolic footprint values for root feeders (including plant‐parasitic nematodes) and fungivores. Annual wheat sites, on the other hand, held indicators of a disturbed system with increased occurrence of opportunistic species and a more bacterial driven pathway. The topsoil had an increased occurrence of structure indicators in both cropping systems.ConclusionIWG creates favourable conditions for a diverse food web, including improved nutrient cycling and a heterogeneous resource environment, regardless of climatic conditions, establishing it as a stable and resilient agricultural management system.

Monographs on invasive plants in Europe N°8: Cortaderia selloana (Schult. & Schult. f.) Asch. & Graebn

ABSTRACT Cortaderia selloana (Schult. & Schult. f.) Asch. & Graebn. (Pampas grass) is a perennial grass native to temperate and subtropical regions of South America. The species was introduced to western Europe for ornamental purposes during the nineteenth century, where it has become naturalized in anthropogenic and natural habitats, especially in sandy, open, and disturbed areas. Female plants of C. selloana produce thousands of seeds that are dispersed over long distances by wind and germinate readily. Its invasive success is also attributed to its ability to adapt and tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, such as high salinity levels, long droughts, and soil chemical pollution. Cortaderia selloana usually invades human-disturbed habitats where it encounters little competition with other plants and high resource availability. However, the species can invade natural habitats, especially those with high light availability, causing biodiversity loss and changes in ecosystem functioning (e.g. alteration of succession and nutrient dynamics). The species may cause negative socio-economic impacts by reducing productivity of tree plantations, causing respiratory allergies, and decreasing the recreational value of invaded areas. Control costs are high due to the extensive root system that C. selloana develops and the high resprouting ability following physical damage. Although herbicides are effective control measures, their use is not allowed or is undesirable in all situations where the plant occurs (e.g. near riverbanks, natural protected sites). No biological control agents have been released on C. selloana to date, but the planthopper Sacchasydne subandina and the gall midge Spanolepis selloanae are promising targets.

Experimental study on root-reinforced soils (R2S) and soil root (S-R) interaction in nature

ABSTRACT Biotechnical stabilization, involving vegetation such as trees and shrubs, is commonly employed to reinforce/stabilize soil masses. This research aimed to examine the interaction between soil and roots, focusing on two grass species readily found locally in Kashmir valley: a standard turf grass and a flood channel grass known for its extensive root system. Variables included root length, vegetation type, and root percentage, while strength assessments such as Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) tests and Direct Shear Tests (DST) were conducted. Three soils, including two naturally occurring and one artificially prepared in the laboratory, were examined for studies on S-R interaction. UCS values increased considerably for different soil types with the maximum enhancement seen in artificial soil wherein the UCS increased from 65 kPa to almost 400 kPa. Cohesion (c) also showed enhancement from 21 kPa in the control sample to 29 kPa for 1.0% root content and 25 mm root length. Micro-structural analysis was performed and the micrographs clearly showed signs of root surface roughness, adherence of soil particles and interlocking between the grains and root fibers. By stabilizing soil masses, roots can play an important role in slope stability, soil conservation, and other geotechnical applications.

Improving the seed yield and quality of canola by using sulfur, strigolactone, and growth promoting microorganisms

The canola needs more sulfur fertilizer than cereals to reach maximum yield. Also, strigolactones can create an extensive root system in canola in order to raise the mineral and water absorption in conditions of deficiency of these substances and strigolactones levels increased under sulfur deficiency. This study was conducted to evaluate the reaction of canola to the application of sulfur, strigolactone and growth promoting microorganisms. Results showed that sulfur application increased seed yield by 23.22% and improved seed oil content by 2.27%. The effect of microorganisms on all traits was significant, especially seed yield enhanced by 3–12%. Thiobacillus had the most positive effect on seed yield and seed quality properties. Strigolactone had no significant effect on seed yield, although it slightly improved some traits. The inoculation of canola with Thiobacillus combined with sulfur and strigolactones increased seed yield by 47% and improve seed quality traits, so it can be recommended.

Earthworm communities and their relation to above‐ground organic residues and water infiltration in perennial cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum) and annual silage maize (Zea mays) energy plants

AbstractPerennial energy cropping systems are hailed as a sustainable way of mitigating and potentially adapting to climate change. As a result of the absence of tillage, soils cropped with perennials like cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum) promote abundant and functionally diverse earthworm communities. Hence, ecosystem service provision because of earthworm activity and functional redundancy, for example, litter decomposition, water infiltration and nutrient turnover, is considerably enhanced in perennial cropping systems. We studied the abundance and functional role of earthworms in non‐tilled perennial systems and reduced‐tilled annual systems to assess their relationship with the respective above‐ground organic residues and their implications for the soil water dynamic. We sampled earthworms and simultaneously measured the saturated infiltration rate for two consecutive years in cup plant and maize (Zea mays) fields. Furthermore, we sampled above‐ground litter each trimester in both systems and analysed the total C and N content and CN ratios. Our field investigations revealed significantly higher earthworm abundance, species diversity and richness in cup plant systems likely because of the absence of tillage and the formation of a litter layer. High abundances of juveniles in both maize and cup plant systems pointed to harsh habitat conditions likely because of temperature variations, waterlogging and bulk density. The respective field litter was of minor importance as a food source in both systems because of poor quality, but may positively affect the soil water balance in cup plant systems. Earthworm populations in maize may have been supported by organic fertilizer while earthworm populations in cup plants may have additionally benefitted from the extensive root network and a higher on‐site plant diversity. Reduced tillage regimes in maize systems may have enhanced saturated infiltration rates. A direct link between earthworms and infiltration was not validated, but may not be excluded in the future, as earthworm populations may develop slowly because of adverse habitat conditions. Our results show that perennials support abundant and diverse earthworm populations and indicate the importance of functional redundancy and the diversity of food sources. The combination of both earthworm abundance and perennial cropping systems is capable of increasing on‐site ecosystem stability and supporting adaptation to climate change by increasing functional redundancy and, ultimately, providing ecosystem services. The noticeable occurrence of the latter, however, may be delayed because of the slow establishment of earthworm communities and delayed build‐up of ecosystems stability. Hence, a transitional phase is inevitable to reap the benefits of perennial energy cropping systems and must be accounted for.

The effects of dune plant roots on loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) nest success.

Sand dunes are supported by the extensive root systems of dune plants that anchor the dune and protect it from erosion. While all plants that grow on the dunes support their structure, invasive plants can outcompete the native and non-native dune plants for resources such as nutrients, sunlight, and space to grow. During the summer, sea turtles lay nests on beaches and near dunes; however, their eggs and hatchlings are at risk of destruction and entrapment by dune plant root penetration. Dune plant roots can penetrate sea turtle nest cavities, thus decreasing hatch success of the eggs and emergence success of the hatchlings. We aimed to determine how plant roots impact threatened loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) nests on Casey Key, Sarasota County, Florida, USA and to assess the factors affecting plant root invasion. Specifically, we determined the effect of plant roots on loggerhead sea turtle nest success, the extent of the impact of invasive plants over non-invasive plants on nests, and if the distance from the dune (barrier) affects whether roots will penetrate the nest. From July to August 2022, we excavated 93 nests to determine the extent of root penetration and identify associated plant species. This field campaign was supported by a long-term dataset (1987-2022) on loggerhead sea turtle nesting across the region. We found that root presence decreased hatch success by 21% and emergence success by 18%, compared to nests that lacked roots within the nest chamber. Nests closer to the dune were more likely to have a higher proportion of root damage and lower hatch and emergence success. This study helps advance understanding of how native and non-native plants affect sea turtle reproductive success and helps inform coastal management aimed at conserving threatened loggerhead populations.

CmoPIP1-4 confers drought tolerance in pumpkin by altering hydrogen sulfide signaling

Drought is a major limiting factor for the growth and development of pumpkins. Plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIPs) are major water channels that play a crucial role in the regulation of cellular water status and solute trafficking during drought conditions. CmoPIP1-4 is a plasma membrane-localized protein that is significantly upregulated in roots and leaves under drought-stress conditions. In this study, the overexpression of CmoPIP1-4 enhances drought resistance in yeast. In contrast, CRISPR-mediated CmoPIP1-4 knockout in pumpkin roots increased drought sensitivity. This increased drought sensitivity of CmoPIP1-4 knockout plants is associated with a decline in the levels of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and abscisic acid (ABA), accompanied by an increase in water loss caused by greater levels of transpiration and stomatal conductance. In addition, the sensitivity of CmoPIP1-4 CRISPR plants is further aggravated by reduced antioxidative enzyme activity, decreased proline and sugar contents, and extensive root damage. Furthermore, expression profiles of genes such as CmoHSP70s, CmoNCED3, CmoNCED4, and others involved in metabolic activities were markedly reduced in CmoPIP1-4 CRISPR plants. Moreover, we also discovered an interaction between the drought-responsive gene CmoDCD and CmoPIP1-4, indicating their potential role in activating H2S-mediated signaling in pumpkin, which could confer drought tolerance. The findings of our study collectively demonstrate CmoPIP1-4 plays a crucial role in the regulation of H2S-mediated signaling, influencing stomatal density and aperture in pumpkin plants, and thereby enhancing their drought tolerance.

Survival, growth, and functional traits of tropical wet forest tree seedlings across an experimental soil moisture gradient in Puerto Rico.

Droughts are predicted to become more frequent and intense in many tropical regions, which may cause shifts in plant community composition. Especially in diverse tropical communities, understanding how traits mediate demographic responses to drought can help provide insight into the effects of climate change on these ecosystems. To understand tropical tree responses to reduced soil moisture, we grew seedlings of eight species across an experimental soil moisture gradient at the Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico. We quantified survival and growth over an 8-month period and characterized demographic responses in terms of tolerance to low soil moisture-defined as survival and growth rates under low soil moisture conditions-and sensitivity to variation in soil moisture-defined as more pronounced changes in demographic rates across the observed range of soil moisture. We then compared demographic responses with interspecific variation in a suite of 11 (root, stem, and leaf) functional traits, measured on individuals that survived the experiment. Lower soil moisture was associated with reduced survival and growth but traits mediated species-specific responses. Species with relatively conservative traits (e.g., high leaf mass per area), had higher survival at low soil moisture whereas species with more extensive root systems were more sensitive to soil moisture, in that they exhibited more pronounced changes in growth across the experimental soil moisture gradient. Our results suggest that increasing drought will favor species with more conservative traits that confer greater survival in low soil moisture conditions.

Identification and molecular mapping of a major gene conferring resistance to Phytophthora sansomeana in soybean 'Colfax'.

The first single dominant resistance gene contributing major resistance to the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora sansomeana was identified and mapped from soybean 'Colfax'. Phytophthora root rot (PRR) is one of the most important diseases in soybean (Glycine max). PRR is well known to be caused by Phytophthora sojae, but recent studies showed that P. sansomeana also causes extensive root rotof soybean. Depending upon the isolate, it might produce aggressive symptoms, especially in seeds and seedlings. Unlike P. sojae which can be effectively managed by Rps genes, no known majorresistance genes have yet been reported for P. sansomeana. Our previous study screened 470 soybean germplasm lines for resistance to P. sansomeana and found that soybean 'Colfax' (PI 573008) carries major resistance to the pathogen. In this study, we crossed 'Colfax' with a susceptible parent, 'Senaki', and developed three mapping populations with a total of 234 F2:3 families. Inheritance pattern analysis indicated a 1:2:1 ratio for resistant: segregating: susceptible lines among all the three populations, indicating a single dominant gene conferring the resistance in 'Colfax' (designatedas Rpsan1). Linkage analysis using extreme phenotypes anchored Rpsan1 to a 30Mb region on chromosome 3. By selecting nine polymorphic SNP markers within the region, Rpsan1 was genetically delimited into a 21.3cM region between Gm03_4487138_A_C and Gm03_5451606_A_C, which corresponds to a 1.06Mb genomic region containing nine NBS-LRR genes based on Gmax2.0 assembly. The mapping results were then validated using two breeding populations derived from 'E12076T-03' × 'Colfax' and 'E16099' × 'Colfax'. Marker-assisted resistance spectrum analyses with 9 additional isolates of P. sansomeana indicated that Rpsan1 may be effective towards a broader range of P. sansomeana isolates and has strong merit in protecting soybean to this pathogen in the future.