Food Plants Research Articles

Challenges in the popularization of wild food plants in Brazil: An examination from the perspectives of consumer science

When associated with sustainable management strategies, wild food plants (WFP) have great potential to increase the income of local populations and diversify food systems. However, in the urban Brazilian context, most of these plants are still unknown or underutilized. This research aimed to identify biases in the acceptance of WFP-based food products. For this purpose, we conducted two experiments on expectation and acceptability evaluation. In the first, we prepared juices and sweet coconut (cocadas) from both WFPs and conventional plant products and tested whether the mixture of WFP + conventional plant creates greater expectation and acceptance by the consumers than products made only with WFP. We also identified the socioeconomic factors that influence expectation and acceptance. In the second experiment, we prepared juices with wild plants (cambuí and araçá) and conventional plants (acerola and guava) and tested whether the terminological association of WFP with conventional plants and terminological clues about forest origin influence the expectation and acceptance of the products. Our results indicate that gastronomic mixtures act as a barrier breaker for food neophobia and provide consumers with greater familiarity with the food, increasing the chances of incorporating WFP into the human diet. In general, older individuals, those with higher education and income, and non-neophobic individuals gave better ratings for appropriateness expectation, and all these variables, including male gender, gave better ratings for acceptance of WFP-based foods. The terminological association with a conventional plant did not influence the expectation and acceptability of the products. The terminological association with forest origin did not interfere with expectation and acceptance, but there was a negative influence of the indication of forest origin on flavor expectation for the neophobic group.

Network structure and taxonomic composition of tritrophic communities of Fagaceae, cynipid gallwasps and parasitoids in Sichuan, China

Abstract A key question in insect community ecology is whether parasitoid assemblages are structured by the food plants of their herbivore hosts. Tritrophic communities centred on oak‐feeding cynipid gallwasps are one of the best‐studied tritrophic insect communities. Previous work suggests that host plant identity is a much stronger predictor of oak–cynipid interactions than of cynipid–parasitoid interactions. However, these relationships have not been formally quantified. We reason that the potential for ‘bottom‐up’ effects should increase with host plant phylogenetic diversity. We, therefore, generated quantified interaction network data for previously unstudied tritrophic cynipid communities in Sichuan, China, where, in addition to Quercus, cynipid host plants include Castanea, Castanopsis and Lithocarpus. We characterise these communities taxonomically and compare the extent to which host plant taxonomy predicts plant–herbivore and plant–parasitoid associations. We sampled 42,620 cynipid galls of 176 morphotypes from 23 host plant species, yielding over 4500 specimens of 64 parasitoid morphospecies. Many parasitoids were identifiable to chalcidoid taxa present in other Holarctic oak cynipid communities, with the addition of Cynipencyrtus (Cynipencyrtidae). As elsewhere, Sichuan parasitoid assemblages were dominated by generalists. Gallwasp–plant interaction networks were significantly more modular than parasitoid–plant association networks. Gallwasps were significantly more specialised to host plants (i.e. had higher mean d' values) than parasitoids. Parasitoid assemblages nevertheless showed significant plant‐associated beta diversity, with a dominant turnover component. We summarise parallels between our study and other Fagaceae‐associated cynipid communities and discuss our findings in light of the processes thought to structure tritrophic interactions centred on endophytic insect herbivores.

Monitoring the Mineral Content of Plant Foods in Food Composition Databases

Declines in the mineral content of food have been reported in several countries. This study monitored reported changes in the mineral content of plant foods in Australian food composition databases between 1991 and 2022. Commonly consumed plant foods (n = 130), grouped as fruit, vegetables, legumes, grains, and nuts in raw unprocessed form, were matched between three reference databases from 1991, 2010, and 2022. Absolute and percentage differences in mineral content (iron, zinc, calcium, and magnesium) were calculated. During this 30-year period, 62 matched foods had updated mineral content. Iron content decreased significantly for fruit (48%) and vegetables (20%), although absolute differences were small (0.09–0.14 mg/100 g). Zinc content declined by 15% for fruit (<0.1 mg/100 g, absolute difference 0.03 mg/100 g), but no differences were observed for calcium and magnesium content. Potential reasons for any reported differences could not be explored using food composition data alone, likely due to biological, agricultural, and/or analytical factors. Nutritionally, these small differences are unlikely to have a major impact on the population’s nutritional status, although efforts to improve fruit and vegetable consumption are encouraged to meet recommendations.

An Overview on Bioeconomy in Agricultural Sector, Biomass Production, Recycling Methods, and Circular Economy Considerations

This review examines the essential components of a circular economy (CE) in relation to the agricultural sector. The bioeconomy and circular economy are crucial for sustainable global industrial growth, focusing on closed-loop systems. The sustainability debate centers on intergenerational equity and natural capital. The CE requires new environmental technologies and global coordination in order to combat climate change and biodiversity loss. In addition, efficient food production and waste reduction are essential due to population growth. However, biomass is vital for a bio-based economy, impacting food waste and climate change. Grasslands support sustainable dairy production and carbon sequestration. Thus, effective waste and wastewater management are critical, with biomass energy providing renewable alternatives. Nonetheless, biofuels remain key for sustainability, focusing on pollution control and Green Chemistry. It is well known that sustainable transportation relies on bioenergy, with ongoing research improving processes and discovering new fuels. One notable challenge is managing heavy metals in biofuel production, and this underscores the need for eco-friendly energy solutions. The main purpose for this review paper is to create a connection between circular economy aspects and the agricultural system, with focus on the following: bioeconomy research, biomass utilities, and biofuel production. Extensive research was performed on the specialized literature by putting in common the main problems. Key subjects in this paper include the use of biomass in agriculture, the problems of plastic recycling, and the function of the CE in mitigating climate change and biodiversity loss. Efficient food production and waste minimization are highlighted due to their relevance in a growing population. The study’s detailed research and discussion aim to give important insights into how these practices might promote economic development and sustainability. Furthermore, the study covers important waste management issues such as food waste, plant composting, and chemical waste neutralization. These topics are critical to understanding the circular economy’s broader implications for minimizing environmental damage and implementing sustainable waste management strategies.

Comparative Analysis of Gut Microbiota between Captive and Wild Long-Tailed Gorals for Ex Situ Conservation.

The long-tailed goral is close to extinction, and ex situ conservation is essential to prevent this phenomenon. Studies on the gut microbiome of the long-tailed goral are important for understanding the ecology of this species. We amplified DNA from the 16S rRNA regions and compared the microbiomes of wild long-tailed gorals and two types of captive long-tailed gorals. Our findings revealed that the gut microbiome diversity of wild long-tailed gorals is greatly reduced when they are reared in captivity. A comparison of the two types of captive long-tailed gorals confirmed that animals with a more diverse diet exhibit greater gut microbiome diversity. Redundancy analysis confirmed that wild long-tailed gorals are distributed throughout the highlands, midlands, and lowlands. For the first time, it was revealed that the long-tailed goral are divided into three groups depending on the height of their habitat, and that the gut bacterial community changes significantly when long-tailed gorals are raised through ex situ conservation. This provides for the first time a perspective on the diversity of food plants associated with mountain height that will be available to long-tailed goral in the future.

Knowledge in motion: temporal dynamics of wild food plant use in the Polish-Lithuanian-Belarusian border region

BackgroundUnderstanding how Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) evolves over time is crucial for fostering social and environmental responsibility. This study aims to develop a conceptual model of plant knowledge circulation, providing insights into the temporal dynamics of LEK in the Polish-Lithuanian-Belarusian border region. It explores the key patterns and driving forces behind changes in the use of wild plants for food.MethodsField research was conducted in 60 rural settlements across Podlasie Voivodeship (Poland), Vilnius Region (Lithuania), and Hrodna Region (Belarus). This included 200 semi-structured interviews and participant observation among two local communities, Lithuanians and Poles. To assess the temporal dynamics of wild food use, we performed a cross-ethnic, cross-border analysis over time, dividing the data into three major temporal dimensions: past, continuous, and recently acquired uses.ResultsOf the 72 wild plant taxa reported by Poles or Lithuanians in the Polish-Lithuanian-Belarusian borderland, 47 were continuously used for food, 58 were utilised in the past, and 41 were recently acquired. Cross-country trends were similar, with Poland showing more past uses. Diachronic comparisons between Poles and Lithuanians in each studied country revealed no significant differences. Recently acquired taxa overlapped considerably with those used continuously and in the past. The most diversely utilised taxa showed the greatest overlaps. By observing the movement of specific plant taxa within various time dimensions, we distinguished overlapping flow variations: retention (3 taxa), decay (11), invention (8), stagnation (17), revitalisation (6), re-invention (3), and knowledge in motion (24). Shifts in the use of wild food plants were influenced by changes in environmental conditions, governmental policies, cultural practices, and economic factors.ConclusionThe findings of this study have important implications for improving methods of tracking changes in LEK and enhancing our understanding of the relationship between people and nature. Our results underscore the importance of considering knowledge circulation over time in different directions. Recognising the various stages of knowledge circulation might help in pursuing sustainable solutions that balance the needs of human communities with environmental protection.

Erratum: Valorizing staple Native American food plants as a food resilience resource

Erratum: Valorizing staple Native American food plants as a food resilience resource

Stephen Facciola

Readers may remember that we reviewed the first edition of Cornucopia, the comprehensive and up to date catalogue of food plants written and produced by Stephen Facciola, in PPC 39. Ever since then, we have been looking forward to the revised edition which we knew was in gestation. Now we have it, and it's great. In his introduction to the new edition, Alan Davidson wrote: 'Let the new version of his work be acclaimed as the uniquely rich resource and dazzling achievement which it is.' David Karp, a world authority on fruits and an enthusiastic user of Facciola's book, had an interview with him recently for the Los Angeles Times, where it was first published. He has kindly allowed us to reprint his piece, which has the merit of telling our readers about the author as well as the great book he has created.

Food source diversity and honey production in stingless bee meliponiculture, Ogan Komering Ulu Timur, South Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract. Rahmad B, Damiri N, Hanafiah Z, Adriani D, Hanum L. 2024. Food source diversity and honey production in stingless bee meliponiculture, Ogan Komering Ulu Timur, South Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2747-2756. This research, conducted with meticulous care, aims to collect data on the diversity of food source plants and analyze vegetation, honey production, and quality in stingless bee cultivation (Meliponiculture) in East Ogan Komering Ulu District (OKUT), South Sumatra Province, Indonesia. The research was carried out using a comprehensive survey method with a qualitative and quantitative approach. The qualitative methods record the type of stingless bee food sources, while qualitative methods are used for honey quality. Direct observation, questionnaires, and in-depth interviews with beekeepers were carried out to collect data on honey production. The investigation involved observing food-supply plants in the meliponiculture area designated as the research site. Meliponiculture area location is the presence of beekeepers actively engaged in producing honey. The results of the inventory of food plant types at the meliponiculture location showed that the composition of food source plants consisted of six species of forestry plants, three species of plantation plants, seven species of MPTs, one species of crop plant, eight species of home garden and four species of shrubs. The planting pattern of plantation and forestry possesses the highest honey yield, which is 360 kg per year. Cultivated honey products have good quality and comply with Indonesian National Standards (SNI), which include organoleptic tests and laboratory tests, with results: Water content 27.14% w/w, reducing sugar content 62.05% w/w, degree of acidity 101.64 ml NaOH Kg, Total solids insoluble in water 0,066% w/w, Ash Content 0.24% w/w, and acidity degree (pH) 3.25.

Micro-botanical evidence of plant food sources and stone tool functions at the Sujiacun site from the Longshan period in southeastern Shandong Province, China

During the early and middle periods of the Longshan culture (4600–4200 cal BP), early states developed around the Liangchengzhen and Yaowangcheng sites along the coastal areas of southeastern Shandong. Intensive agriculture and the specialised production of stone tools symbolised the advanced development of Longshan society. However, previous archaeological research in this area has focused mainly on the central settlements of the Longshan culture. As small and medium-sized rural settlements have not been sufficiently explored, their subsistence economy and stone tool functions remain unclear. Starch grains and phytolith assemblages in the residues on stone tool surfaces provide direct tangible evidence of the functions of these tools and offer a new perspective on the characteristics of plant resource use at archaeological sites. The Sujiacun site in Rizhao was a Longshan-period rural settlement in coastal southeastern Shandong. This study conducted starch grain and phytolith analyses of the residues on the surfaces of 17 stone tools from the Sujiacun site. Starch grains of foxtail millet (Setaria italica), broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum), rice (Oryza sativa), roots and tubers, and plants of the Hordeum genus were identified, as well as phytoliths of broomcorn millet and rice and those commonly found in grass stems and leaves. This micro-botanical data together with other archaeological evidence suggest that foxtail millet, broomcorn millet, and rice were the main plant foods and that mixed farming of millet and rice was the main subsistence economy at the Sujiacun site. Knives and sickles were mainly used for harvesting crops and sometimes for peeling, slicing, and chopping roots and tubers. The stone muller was used for grinding rather than dehusking grain, and the grinding stone was used not only for polishing stone tools but also for grinding plants. Our findings provide new insights into the methods of plant use and subsistence practices of the Longshan complex society on the east coast of China.

Polyphenols in Cereals: State of the Art of Available Information and Its Potential Use in Epidemiological Studies.

Cereals are the basis of much of the world's daily diet. Recently, there has been considerable interest in the beneficial properties of wholegrains due to their content of phytochemicals, particularly polyphenols. Despite this, the existing data on polyphenolic composition of cereal-based foods reported in the most comprehensive databases are still not updated. Many cereal-based foods and phenolic compounds are missing, including pigmented ones. Observational epidemiological studies reporting the intake of polyphenols from cereals are limited and inconsistent, although experimental studies suggest a protective role for dietary polyphenols against cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Estimating polyphenol intake is complex because of the large number of compounds present in foods and the many factors that affect their levels, such as plant variety, harvest season, food processing and cooking, making it difficult matching consumption data with data on food composition. Further, it should be taken into account that food composition tables and consumed foods are categorized in different ways. The present work provides an overview of the available data on polyphenols content reported in several existing databases, in terms of presence, missing and no data, and discusses the strengths and weaknesses of methods for assessing cereal polyphenol consumption. Furthermore, this review suggests a greater need for the inclusion of most up-to-date cereal food composition data and for the harmonization of standardized procedures in collecting cereal-based food data and adequate assessment tools for dietary intake.

Effect of cold plasma treatment on the quality and nutritional value of plant materials. Scoping review

Cold plasma treatment is a new technology for non-thermal processing of food products, which helps to increase the expiration date of plant foods without adversely affecting their nutritional value and organoleptic parameters. The work was aimed at analyzing studies into the effect of cold plasma treatment of plant materials on their chemical composition and secondary plant metabolites, as well as organoleptic parameters. The review includes articles published in English in 2015–2023. The search for scientific literature on this topic was conducted across Scopus and Web of Science using keywords. The studies show that the effect of cold plasma treatment on proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and organoleptic parameters of plant materials depended primarily on the exposure time, intensity, power, frequency, gas flow rate, as well as the amount and type of processed plant materials. Due to the high oxidation potential and antimicrobial activity, cold plasma technology can provide an effective way to increase the shelf life and expiration date of plant materials without adversely affecting the organoleptic parameters, physicochemical parameters, and nutritional value of the product. However, limitations exist for its widespread industrial implementation. Further studies are required to determine specific treatment parameters for different types of materials and to confirm the safety and possible toxicity of cold plasma-treated food products.

Effects of increased nitrate intake from beetroot juice on blood markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in older adults with hypertension

BackgroundVascular oxidative stress and low-grade inflammation are important in the pathology of cardiovascular disorders, including hypertension. Cell culture and animal studies suggest that inorganic dietary nitrate may attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation through nitric oxide (NO), and there is a need to investigate whether this translates to humans. AimIn this randomised, placebo-controlled crossover study, by measuring a combination of multiple blood biomarkers, we evaluated whether previously reported benefits of dietary nitrate translate to a reduced oxidative stress and an improved inflammation status in 15 men and women (age range: 56–71 years) with treated hypertension. MethodsWe investigated the effects of a single ∼400 mg-dose of nitrate at 3 h post-ingestion (3H POST) and the daily consumption of 2 × ∼400 mg of nitrate over 4 weeks (4WK POST), through nitrate-rich versus nitrate-depleted (placebo) beetroot juice. Measurements included plasma nitrate and nitrite (NOx), oxidised low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), F2-isoprostanes, protein carbonyls, oxidised (GSSG) and reduced glutathione (GSH); and serum high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), chemokines, cytokines, and adhesion molecules. Flow cytometry was used to assess the relative proportion of blood monocyte subsets. ResultsAt 4WK POST nitrate intervention, the oxLDL/NOx ratio decreased (mainly due to increases in plasma nitrate and nitrite) and the GSH/GSSG ratio (a sensitive biomarker for alterations in the redox status) increased, compared with placebo (for both ratios P < 0.01). The relative proportion of classical (CD14+CD16−) monocytes decreased at 4WK POST for placebo compared to nitrate intervention (P < 0.05). Other oxidative stress and inflammatory markers were not altered by increased nitrate intake relative to placebo. ConclusionsThe data from this study point toward a subtle alteration in the redox balance toward a less pro-oxidative profile by a regular intake of inorganic nitrate from plant foods. Clinical trial registry numberNCT04584372 (ClinicialTrials.gov).

Fermentation of orange pomace: Impact on essential oil composition and antimicrobial activity

Since fermentation has been shown to be a valid approach to improve the antimicrobial activity of plant materials and food by-products, the present work aims to investigate the effect of this bioprocess on the composition of orange essential oils and their antimicrobial activity against food-related microorganisms. Fermentation with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum resulted in an increase in α-terpineol in the extracted essential oil, which is strongly correlated with the increase in the antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica. The increase in α-terpineol (about 27% in the oil recovered from fermented orange pomace and 0.13% in the unfermented control) was accompanied by a decrease in limonene (about 66% and 95% in the oils obtained from fermented and unfermented orange pomace, respectively), suggesting its metabolism during fermentation. To the best of our knowledge, no study has previously investigated the effect of orange pomace fermentation on the essential oil composition and antimicrobial activity, however, from these preliminary results, the application of fermentation prior to essential oil extraction seems to be a valid strategy for obtaining essential oils with enhanced antimicrobial activity.

Influence of habitat on fine-scale space use by brown lemmings (Lemmus trimucronatus) in the High Arctic.

Space use by small mammals should mirror their immediate needs for food and predator shelters but can also be influenced by seasonal changes in biotic and abiotic factors. Lemmings are keystone species of the tundra food web, but information on their spatial distribution in relation to habitat heterogeneity is still scant, especially at a fine scale. In this study, we used spatially explicit capture-recapture methods to determine how topography, hydrology, vegetation, and soil characteristics influence the fine-scale spatial variations in summer density of brown lemmings (Lemmus trimucronatus). Lemmings were monitored throughout the summer in wet and mesic tundra habitats and in a predator exclusion grid, which was also located in mesic tundra. We found that in wet tundra, lemming densities were higher at sites with a rugged topography dominated by hummocks, but only during snow melt. In both mesic tundra sites, lemming densities were higher in sites with poor drainage and low aspect throughout the summer. We found no clear association between lemming densities and any tested vegetation or soil variables. Overall, hydrology and topography appear to play a dominant role in small-scale space use of brown lemmings with a secondary role for predator avoidance and food plant abundance.

Techno-economic and environmental assessment of dietary fibre extraction from soybean hulls

This research evaluates the economic and environmental feasibility of extracting dietary fibre (DF) from a by-product such as soybean hulls. Techno-economic (TEA) and life cycle assessment (LCA) were carried out to identify the critical factors that may limit the implementation of a potential biorefinery plant. The modelling of the process was carried out on the basis of mass and energy balances, as well as the characteristics of the required equipment. TEA indicators such as minimum selling price (MSP), fixed capital investment, manufacturing costs were evaluated. A cradle-to-gate LCA approach and a functional unit (FU) of 1 kg of product (85% DF content) were considered. Impact categories such as global warming (GW), eutrophication, eco-toxicity, among others, were analysed. The results indicate that the production capacity achieves the plateau at about 56 kt y−1, with an MSP value of 2.6 $·kg−1. Furthermore, the GW profile was 8.76 kg CO2eq per FU, and the main hotspot is the alkaline digestion stage due to the use of potassium hydroxide (KOH). Nevertheless, the management of the hulls from multi-product food plants and switching KOH production to renewable sources may reduce the profile in almost all categories analysed.

Adsorption rate of uranium and thorium isotopes in soil and plants grown in a high background radiation area

ABSTRACT An important method for measuring radionuclide activity is alpha spectrometry. Ten soil samples were collected from the studied area. The activity concentrations of 238U and 234U in the collected soil samples ranged between 135 and 218 Bq kg–1 and between 117 and 183 Bq kg–1, respectively. 232Th, 230Th and 228Th activity concentrations ranged between 101 and 339, between 122 and 234 and between 106 and 385 Bq kg–1, respectively. When calculating the amount of radionuclide transport across the food chain, assessment models usually employ a transfer factor. Through root uptake, U and Th are transferred from the soil to food plants. To monitor the movement of radionuclides from the uranium series in diverse environments, it may be possible to use the ratios of uranium and thorium isotopes. Uranium mobility in soil depends on different physicochemical, organic and enzymatic factors and mechanisms. The high mobility of uranium is the main reason for the accumulation of uranium in the soil at root level and the possibility of its transfer to plants. A group of plants were selected that are grown in this area and the population relies on them mainly to meet their food needs. The concentration and transfer factor values of uranium isotopes were the highest in roots as compared with leaves and stems. Uranium in plants accumulates in roots and is then transferred to leaves. The mobility of uranium in plant tissues is constrained because it frequently adsorbs cell wall components. As a result, concentrations are frequently higher in tissues located in lower parts of the plant, with root surfaces having the highest concentrations.

Exploring Bioactive Compounds in Underutilized Fruit Crops of Arid and Semi-Arid Regions: A Comprehensive Review

Exploring the bioactive compounds in underutilized fruit crops of arid regions reveals a wealth of phytochemicals, including polyphenols, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, amino acids, and carotenoids. These compounds exhibit significant health benefits, evidenced through both in vitro and in vivo studies, demonstrating antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hypolipidemic and neuroactive properties. This review delves into the bioactive compounds found in fruits of arid and semi-arid regions, highlighting their phytochemical compositions and their potential in preventing chronic diseases, thereby enhancing human health. Underutilized fruit crops, typically grown and consumed locally rather than being commercially cultivated or widely traded, offer several advantages. They are easier to grow, more resilient to climate change, and exceptionally rich in phytochemicals with medicinal properties. These fruits, such as Indian jujube, Indian gooseberry, bael, and tamarind, among others, are valuable for their high nutritional content and potential to meet the dietary needs of rural populations in arid regions. Local knowledge attests to their nutritional and medicinal benefits, necessitating rigorous study for conservation and nutritional characterization to broaden future food options and enhance functional and nutritional values. This review outlines the ethnobotany, medicinal and nutritional values, biodiversity conservation, and utilization strategies for significant underutilized fruit crops from arid and semi-arid regions. These fruits are rich in diverse phytochemical compounds like flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, glycosides, and alkaloids, which are utilized to treat various health conditions in humans and livestock. Their extracts demonstrate a range of activities, including antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiplasmodial and antinociceptive effects. Highlighting the current research on the nutritional profiling, chemical composition, and potential applications of these fruits, this chapter addresses the knowledge gap concerning the health benefits of consuming arid and semi-arid fruits. This is particularly relevant given the growing interest in "superfoods" and the need for evidence-based public health guidelines to inform consumers about the benefits of polyphenol-rich plant foods in preventing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Differences in foraging behaviour between Wiseana copularis (Meyrick) and W. cervinata (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae) in exotic pastures

ABSTRACT Porina (Wiseana spp.) are endemic to New Zealand with some species adapting to exotic pastures, where they cause significant damage. Porina larvae cannot be identified to species level in the field so the relative impact of each porina species is not known. Greater knowledge of foraging behaviour by different porina species will help to determine species-specific impacts. The nocturnal foraging behaviours of W. cervinata and W. copularis larvae were investigated in the laboratory using videos recorded under infrared conditions. Foraging behaviours were characterised, and videos analysed using BORIS software found species differences in the number of burrows constructed and in foraging choices. Behavioural sequences were similar for both porina species, with W. cervinata larvae foraging exclusively on white clover while W. copularis foraged on white clover and ryegrass. W. cervinata larvae constructed one horizontal burrow whereas W. copularis constructed 2–3 horizontal burrows to reach their food plants. By constructing several horizontal burrows, W. copularis larvae have access to more plants without exposing themselves above ground to adverse weather conditions or predators. This may be an advantageous strategy for W. copularis larvae, particularly at high population densities when food becomes scarce, and may increase the degree of pasture damage caused by this species relative to other Wiseana spp. Porina management should target the most damaging species within the complex and this study provides further evidence that W. copularis is more likely to cause pasture damage.

Food and beverage rituals at the period of birth, marriage, and death in Shamanist Turks and its modern reflections

It is known that the Turks have adopted many religions in history. Shamanism is also among the ancient beliefs of the Turks. Shamanism; Tengrism is also known by names such as the religion of the Sky God. This study examines the food and drink habits of Turks who believe in Shamanism during the mythological rituals they perform on the occasions of birth, marriage, and death. It also investigates how food and beverages were consumed during these occasions in Turkish mythology. The study emphasizes the reflections of the eating and drinking rituals in Turkish mythology to the present day. . In this context, a compilation article was made by using the literature review method, one of the qualitative research methods, by making use of secondary data sources. Various Turkic peoples and Turkic tribes were examined by scanning the relevant academic literature, and a conceptual framework was tried to be created. The research shows that Turks often use plant foods (barley, wheat, and oats) grown in their geographical area and horse meat in their rituals because it has an essential function in their lives. In addition, milk has an important place and is often consumed.