Fresh Matter Research Articles

Inoculation and concentration of Bacillus subtilis and Azospirillum brasilense to nitrogen metabolism, leaf gas exchange and plant growth in hydroponic lettuce

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effect of three concentrations of Bacillus subtilis and Azospirillum brasilense on plant growth, leaf gas exchange, leaf nitrate reductase activity, and nitrate accumulation in hydroponic lettuce. The treatments were arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial scheme, two inoculants (B. subtilis and A. brasilense), and three concentrations of inoculants, 1.6 x 104 ;(low) and 6.4x104 CFU mL−1; (high). Inoculation with a low concentration of B. subtilis provided greater shoot N accumulation, total amino acid contents, intercellular CO2 concentration, net photosynthesis rate, water use efficiency, root fresh matter, and shoot dry matter. Both low and high concentrations of B. subtilis led to greater chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, chlorophyll total, carotenoids, total carbohydrate content, transpiration, and leaf nitrate reductase. Inoculation with high concentration of A. brasilense provided greater shoot nitrogen and ammonium accumulation, total amino acids and carbohydrates, nitrate reductase activity, root fresh matter, and shoot dry matter, and low concentration of A. brasilense provided greater chlorophyll pigments, conductance stomatic, transpiration, net photosynthesis rate, water use efficiency and root length. The inoculation with B. subtilis and A. brasilense in two concentrations, 1.6x104 and 6.4x104 CFU mL−1, provided lower shoot nitrate accumulation and greater plant growth, photosynthetic efficiency, nitrogen accumulation, nitrate reductase activity, and concentration of total amino acids and carbohydrates in the leaves.

Genetic parameters, repeatability, and multiple-trait selection in Paspalum notatum Flügge genotypes

ABSTRACT The genetic improvement of Paspalum notatum aims to develop superior genotypes with high forage yield, persistence, and adaptability. The objective of this study was to evaluate genetic parameters and the repeatability of agronomic traits in genotypes of the specie, and to apply selection methods based on multiple traits to identify genotypes with high forage performance potential. The experiment was conducted in the south of Brazil, over three years. Variance component analysis using restricted/residual maximum likelihood/best linear unbiased prediction (REML/BLUP) revealed significant genetic variability for most traits, with high heritability estimates for plant diameter (0.40), fresh matter (0.36), leaf dry matter (0.34), and total dry matter (0.32). The genotype × harvest interaction was significant, reinforcing the importance of evaluating selection strategies over multiple years. The repeatability coefficients indicated moderate stability across harvests, suggesting consistent genotypic expression and potential genetic gains over successive selection cycles. Multi-trait selection via the multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI index) identified ten superior genotypes with higher forage potential, and other favourable traits. These findings reinforce the potential of multi-trait selection to optimise breeding strategies in P. notatum, accelerating genetic gains and supporting the development of improved forage cultivars adapted to diverse environmental conditions.

Effects of Pineapple Peel on the Nutritional and Microbial Profiles of Napier Grass–Sugarcane Top Silage

Agricultural byproducts, including pineapple peel (PP), are valuable feed additives which support the livestock industry. However, conflicting evidence exists regarding the optimal amount of PP required to achieve optimal fermentation in silage. This study examines the impact of ensiling mixtures of equal proportions of fresh Napier grass (NG) and sugarcane top (ST) with varying levels of PP (0% [C], 10% [P1], 20% [P2], and 30% [P3]) on fermentation quality, microbiological profiles, and in vitro ruminal digestion. Compared to the C silage, the dry matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber contents decreased in the silage treated with increasing PP (p < 0.05). P1 exhibited lower (p > 0.05) pH, higher (p > 0.05) lactic acid content, and lower (p < 0.05) NH3-N content than other silage. The Chao 1, ACE index, and relative abundance of Lacticaseibacillus and Lactobacillales were decreased following the order of C > P1 > P2 > P3 (p < 0.05). Although there were no significant differences observed in most vitro ruminal fermentation parameters among four silages (p > 0.05), P1 exhibited higher total gas production, total volatile fatty acid, acetate acid, acetate-to-propionate ratio, and lower pH than the other silages. These results demonstrated that a NG and ST mixture co-ensiling with appropriate PP enhances the NG and ST mixture silage quality, and the optimum addition ratio for PP was 10% on a fresh matter basis.

Effects of maturity stage and mancozeb on phyllosphere microbial communities and the plant health potential of silage maize

Mancozeb is often used to supplement the nutritional requirements of maize for elements such as manganese and zinc, as well as for the control of diseases such as large blotches and stripe blotches. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of different concentrations of mancozeb on phyllosphere microbial diversity and plant health in silage maize. The experimental treatments comprised three maturity stages (big trumpet, milk, and dough) and four mancozeb concentrations (control: CK, equal amounts of distilled water; low concentration, 1500-fold dilution; medium concentration, 1000-fold dilution; and high concentration, 500-fold dilution). The fresh matter yield of silage maize increased by 36.6% and 9.07% in the low and high treatments than in the CK, respectively. Compared with the CK, the application of mancozeb slightly improved the photosynthetic properties of the silage maize. Specifically, compared with CK, the net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, and intercellular CO2 concentration in the low-concentration treatment increased by 10.4%, 50.2%, and 28.5%, respectively. Compared to the dough stage, the net photosynthetic rates increased by 64.8% and 93.2%in the big trumpet and milk stages, respectively, and transpiration rates increased by 66.4% and 155%, respectively. Total phenols, proline, reducing sugars, vitamin C, free amino acids, and inorganic phosphorus contents were the highest (P < 0.05) in the leaves at the dough stage. The low and medium treatments reduced the relative abundance of the harmful fungus Epicoccum compared to CK (high > CK > low > medium), and compared to CK, the low treatment increased Pantoea, Chryseobacterium, Microbacterium, Massilia, Filobasidium, Papiliotrema and other beneficial microorganisms in relative abundance. The relative abundance of Parasola was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of the CK at low and medium treatments. At the genus level, the fungal community with the highest relative abundance was Symmetrospora (high > low > CK > medium). Based on the yield and utilization of silage maize and considering the changes in the diversity of microorganisms attached to the surface of silage maize leaves, this study recommends the use of low concentrations of mancozeb and harvesting at the milk stage.

Importance of ice algae versus phytoplankton in the diet of megabenthic organisms under contrasting sea ice conditions (Canadian Arctic): a dual biochemical approach (SIA and HBIs)

The effects of global warming are most pronounced at high latitudes and are a threat to primary productivity patterns and, in particular, to sea ice algae. Here, we investigated the importance of ice algae in the diet of megabenthic organisms belonging to several feeding guilds across several locations in the Canadian Arctic characterised by different sea ice conditions using two biochemical approaches i.e., stable isotope and highly branched isoprenoid (HBI) lipids analysis. In addition, the short-term ingestion (gut contents) versus mid to long-term assimilation (tissues) of carbon were investigated to depict momentary condition in the present and the recent past. Our results show firstly that, as soon as the ice breaks up, ice algae accounts for a high proportion of the organic matter deposited to the seafloor and can provide a substantial carbon input to benthic communities for a long period of time (up to 79 days after sea ice break up in our case). Overall, organisms responded rapidly and efficiently to this pulse of fresh organic matter but trends in resource utilisation (quality and quantity) were observed based on feeding strategy. Deposit feeders (except those from lasting sea ice cover) and predators/scavengers showed a dominance of ice algae feeding, while suspension feeder showed a stronger reliance on phytoplankton. Finally, the spatial variability in resource utilisation by ophiuroids is likely related to area’s specificities (e.g., primary production, ice break-up timing, grazer abundance) and highlighted their ability to adapt to available food by switching their feeding types. Our data show that sympagic (ice-associated) carbon represents a significant proportion of the carbon ingested by the megabenthic organisms in the Canadian Arctic during spring/summer but appears to be highly variable depending on sea ice conditions and availability (e.g., patchiness, depth) on the seafloor. Overall, the ongoing decline in seasonal sea ice could alter the functioning and dynamic of the benthic food web in the Canadian Arctic if certain feeding types (e.g., deposit feeders) are unable to adapt to a change in primary productivity patterns.

Beetroot peel flour: Characterization, betalains profile, in silico ADMET properties and in vitro biological activity.

Beetroot peel flour: Characterization, betalains profile, in silico ADMET properties and in vitro biological activity.

Mycorrhizal influence on growth, metabolites and mineral nutrition in garlic (Allium sativum L.) plant

Mycorrhizae are fungal symbionts forming mutualistic relationship with plant. The present work has been envisioned with an aim to provide some insight into the influence of AMF on underground stem propagated garlic plant. In the present study bulbils sowed earthen pots were inoculated by sterilized spores of AMF along with sterilized inoculated maize-root fragments, while the rest half of the Bulbils filled pots, without any inoculation depicting control but were provided with non-inoculated maize root fragments. The inoculation was performed twice; first inoculation was done 3 days prior to sowing of garlic Bulbils and second after 03 days of bulbil sowing. Sampling of the inoculated as well as of control plants was performed at 30-day intervals till 90 days after seedling emergence. The AMF adds to more fresh and dry matter amounts at each stage of growth in comparison to their respective non AMF plants. However it was observed that mixed inoculum showed better growth, metabolites and nutrients in garlic than individual species. Except for reducing sugar fractions which are lower due to AMF association, other metabolites like of total sugars, proteins and phenolics show a significant additional contents at each stage of growth with AMF association than in the absence of AMF. AMF also adds increased contents in macro elements of NPK respectively which keep increasing with growth of the plant and its underground bulb. This study demonstrates that AMF inoculation has a great potential in increasing growth parameters and also enriching storage metabolites and nutrients in garlic plant in low yielding soils.

Cottonseed cake and Weissella cibaria as additives for sugarcane silage

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the fermentative and microbial profiles, chemical composition, aerobic stability, and dry matter losses in sugarcane silages supplemented with cottonseed cake (CSC) and Weissella cibaria (WC). The experiment was designed as a completely randomised design in a 4 × 2 factorial scheme with four replications. The treatments included: (1) sugarcane silage (control), (2) S + 20% CSC (on a fresh matter basis), (3) S + WC, and (4) Combo (S + CSC + WC), evaluated at two opening times (60 and 240 days). An interaction between the additives and opening time was observed for pH, with higher values recorded in S + CSC and Combo silages (P < 0.05). Ethanol content was significantly lower in S + CSC silages (P < 0.05). Yeast activity was higher in S + WC silages compared to the other treatments (P < 0.05). Dry matter recovery was highest in S + CSC and Combo silages (920 g/kg), followed by S + WC (850 g/kg) and the control silage (630 g/kg) (P < 0.05). The inclusion of CSC increased dry matter recovery, and improved nutritive value of silages.

Advancing the comprehensive understanding of soil organic carbon priming effect: definitions, mechanisms, influencing factors, and future perspectives.

The soil carbon (C) priming effect (PE), an important phenomenon in soil C cycle research, has garnered extensive attention in recent years. Soil C PE refers to the stimulation or inhibition of the original soil organic C (SOC) decomposition rate by newly added organic matter in the soil. Its mechanism of action involves the activity of soil microorganisms. Fresh organic matter input provides an additional source of energy and nutrients for soil microorganisms, prompting changes in microbial community structure and activity, which in turn affects SOC decomposition. Easily decomposable organic matter may stimulate rapid microbial growth and metabolic activity of microorganisms, thereby the decomposition accelerating of original SOC and producing a positive PE, whereas recalcitrant organic matter may lead microorganisms to preferentially utilise the newly added C source, thereby inhibiting original SOC decomposition and producing a negative PE. There are numerous factors influencing soil C PE, including organic matter properties such as chemical composition, C:N ratio, and lignin content; soil environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and pH value; and land-use patterns and vegetation types. Research on soil C PE is crucial for an in-depth understanding of the soil C cycle, the accurate assessment of dynamic changes in the soil C pool, and the development of sustainable soil management strategies. This study introduces the definition, change mechanism, influencing factors, and research methods of soil C PE and elaborates on the status and deficiencies of PE research, which is helpful for predicting soil C responses to global climate change and provides a scientific basis for improving soil fertility and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Optimizing Protein-Rich Young Vegetative Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) Growth: Effects of Inter-Row Spacing and Genotype in Mediterranean Summer Cultivation

Young vegetative quinoa (YVQ) has gained attention as a high-protein leafy crop for human consumption with potential for cultivation in Mediterranean and semiarid regions. We investigated the effects of inter-row spacing and genotype on YVQ fresh and dry matter (DM) yield, protein content (PC), and protein yield during summer cultivation in northern Israel in two separate, independent, randomized field experiments over two consecutive years (2020–2021). We hypothesized that row spacing and genotypic differences would significantly impact yield and PC. Inter-row spacing significantly affected plant density, ranging from 55 to 366 plants m−2. Fresh and DM yields ranged from 4957 to 28,469 kg ha−1 and 661 to 3737 kg DM ha−1, respectively. PC ranged from 20.5 to 26.6% and was not significantly influenced by row spacing. Total protein yield ranged from 147 to 884 kg ha−1. Among the five tested genotypes, no significant differences were observed in fresh (7477–17,776 kg ha−1) or dry (1122–2199 kg DM ha−1) biomass, PC (21.2–26.5%), or protein yield (260–579 kg ha−1), suggesting limited genetic differentiation under the specific environmental and agronomic conditions tested. Amino acid analysis confirmed the presence of all nine essential amino acids, fulfilling over 30% of the recommended daily intake per 100 g DM. These findings highlight YVQ as a promising, sustainable, and protein-rich leafy crop for Mediterranean agriculture. Further research should explore multi-harvest potential, mechanical weeding, and optimized agronomic practices for commercial-scale production.

Physicochemical Properties of Forest Wood Biomass for Bioenergy Application: A Review

Forest wood biomass is a key renewable resource for advancing energy transition and mitigating climate change. This review analyzes the physicochemical properties of forest biomass from major European tree species to assess their suitability for bioenergy applications. This study encompasses key parameters, such as moisture content, ash content, volatile matter, fixed carbon, elemental composition, bulk density, and energy content (HHV and LHV). This review analyzed data from 43 publications and extracted 140 records concerning the physicochemical properties of the most common European forest species used for bioenergy. The most commonly represented species were Quercus robur, Eucalyptus spp., and Fagus sylvatica. Moisture content, referring to fresh matter, ranged from 5% to 65%; ash content, referring to a dry basis, ranged from 0.2% to 3.5%; and higher heating value (HHV), referring to dry matter, ranged from 17 to 21 MJ kg−1. This study highlights variability among species and underscores the importance of standardizing biomass characterization methods and the scarcity of data on bulk density and other key logistical parameters. These findings emphasize the need for consistent methodologies and species-specific selection strategies to optimize sustainability and efficiency in forest biomass utilization for bioenergy.

Effect of different mycobionts on growth parameters of Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don) Soo: implications on conservation strategies

Dactylorhiza hatagirea maintain a symbiotic relationship with rhizospheric fungi in their lifecycle. Rhizospheric fungi have different roles during its growth and development. Although various rhizospheric fungi have been isolated from D. hatagirea, little is known about their specific effects on its growth and development. To understand the role of fungal species on growth parameters of D. hatagirea, we compared the effect of eight fungal species on growth parameters of D. hatagirea. viz. Trichoderma asperellum, Talaromyces falvus, Aspergillus candidus, Circinella muscae, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Cephalosporium acremonium and Trichoderma harzianum in the form of three treatments. Treatment (T1) comprised the combined application of Trichoderma asperellum, Talaromyces falvus, Aspergillus candidus and Circinella muscae. Treatment (T2) comprised the combined application of Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Cephalosporium acremonium and Trichoderma harzianum. Another treatment (T3) comprised the combined application of T1 and T2. A separate set of plants which were un-treated with any fungal isolated served as control. Our results revealed that the tubers inoculated with T3 conferred the highest shoot length, tuber length, optimal fresh and dry matter yield, and greatly enhanced other growth parameters, length of inflorescence, number of flowers and specific leaf area. Treatment (T3) has a discernible impact on plant growth compared to the T1, T2 and control. The results revealed that these fungal species we used in the presented study of tested plant D. hatagirea promoted growth with different efficiencies. Our results also revealed that rhizospheric fungal associations with D. hatagirea showed development-dependent preference and hence may provide the basic knowledge for use of different fungal species in conservation of D. hatagirea at different elevations.

Gliricidia Hay Replacing Ground Corn and Cottonseed Cake in Total Mixed Rations Silages Based on Spineless Cactus

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of including gliricidia hay (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20% fresh matter—FM), replacing ground corn and cottonseed cake, on the quality of total mixed rations silages based on spineless cactus. Twenty-five experimental silos were distributed in a completely randomized design experiment (five treatments—five replications). Ash, neutral and acid detergent fiber, and hemicellulose contents increased linearly, whereas the non-fibrous and total carbohydrates decreased (p &lt; 0.05). Crude protein and ether extract contents were quadratically influenced (p &lt; 0.05). The pH values and acetic acid concentrations increased, whereas the lactic acid concentration decreased linearly (p &lt; 0.05). Ammoniacal concentration was influenced quadratically (p &lt; 0.05). Decreasing linear effects were observed on the maximum and minimum temperatures and thermal amplitude (p &lt; 0.05). A quadratic effect was observed on forage losses (p &lt; 0.05). Effluent losses decreased, and dry matter recovery was influenced quadratically (p &lt; 0.05). The inclusion of up to 15.1% gliricidia hay in the production of total mixed ration silages based on spineless cactus preserves adequate standards of chemical composition (15.6% crude protein) and fermentation profile, while decreasing forage losses (7.3% FM) without compromising dry matter recovery and aerobic stability.

Influence of plasma activated water on the growth and vitality of radish (Raphanus sativus L.)

Abstract In this study, plasma activated water (PAW) was prepared by a pin-hole discharge, generating plasma directly in liquids with air flowing into the discharge. Radish (Raphanus sativus) plants were grown in pots filled with soil for 30 d. Pots were divided to 4 variants based on the PAW application: PAW prepared from distilled water (PAW DW), PAW prepared from tap water (PAW TW), foliar application of PAW on leaves and irrigated by TW (TW/PAW DW) and control group irrigated by TW. Results have indicated enhancement of the growth of the plant fresh matter in all variants treated by PAW. Vitality of the plants was determined by chlorophyll fluorescence. Fluorescence measurement results have shown inhibition of photosynthesis activity in case of plants treated with PAW compared to control group (TW), which means the treatment of plants with PAW lowers the overall vitality. Elemental analysis results showed that the PAW treatment of plants increased the content of nitrogen in the root part of the radish plants. The sensory evaluation showed that the PAW treatment influenced a certain taste and aesthetic characteristics of R. sativus. Overall, the foliar application of PAW seems to be more convenient option as a plant fertilizer compared to the soil irrigation.

Lettuce production in a DWC aquaponic system with and without bioflocs compared to a hydroponic system in southern Brazil

Three recirculation systems – aquaponics (Aqua), aquaponics with bioflocs (AquaFloc), and hydroponics (Hydro) – were established to evaluate lettuce production (floating) over 45 days. Juveniles of hybrid tambacus kept in aquaponic tanks were fed commercial feed. Water quality was monitored and vegetable growth was assessed. Metrics of lettuce, such as head diameter, height, fresh matter, dry matter, number of leaves, and chlorophyll concentration, were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the Hydro system than in the AquaFloc system even after 60 days. The AquaFloc system exhibited 62% fish survival, significantly lower (p < 0.05) ammonia and nitrite concentrations than Hydro, and an absence of nitrate. Electrical conductivity and total dissolved solids concentration were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in AquaFloc than in Hydro, while pH levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in both Aqua and AquaFloc, resulting in reduced nutrient availability for plant growth. The Aqua system showed no lettuce growth and experienced complete fish mortality. The fish-to-vegetable ratio used did not meet the nutritional demands of lettuce. Further studies are needed to determine an appropriate fish-to-vegetable ratio that provides sufficient nutrients to plants in aquaponics, along with the maintenance of optimal pH control.

Effect of Fibrolytic Enzymes and Regrowth Ages on Fermentation Profile and Nutrient Composition of Mombasa Grass and Elephant Grass Silages

ABSTRACTTwo experiments were carried out to evaluate whether the addition of cellulase and/or xylanase enzymes interacts with regrowth age (RA) in mombasa grass (Megathyrsus maximus) and elephant grass cv. BRS Capiaçu (Cenchrus purpureus) to alter nutritive composition and fermentation profile. Mombasa and elephant grass plots were mowed and harvested at two different RAs (7‐ and 11‐week for mombasa grass; 12‐ and 16‐week for elephant grass). After forages were chopped, they received one of the following additive treatments: no additive (control), xylanase enzyme (300 mg/kg DM; XYL), cellulase enzyme (1 g/kg fresh matter; CEL) and cellulase + xylanase enzymes (same dosages as before; MIX), in a factorial arrangement of 4 (additives) × 2 (regrowth ages), with three replicates. Greater lactic acid and lower acetic acid, butyric acid and NNH3 concentrations were observed for CEL in mombasa grass silage. Nevertheless, CEL decreased aerobic stability in elephant grass silages and increased effluent production in both species. For mombasa grass silages, lower fermentation loss and more extensive fermentation were observed for early harvest, while the opposite was observed for elephant grass silages. Cellulase improves the fermentation profile of Mombasa grass silage. The combined application of these enzymes does not appear to warrant recommendation. Further research is warranted to evaluate the synergetic effects of cellulase with chemical, absorbent and microbial additives.

Microencapsulated Linseed Oil Supplementation Modifies Lipid Profile and Improves Luteal Function in Dairy Sheep.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids omega 3 (PUFA-ω3) have been shown to modulate reproductive events such as ovarian follicular and luteal development, steroid and prostaglandin synthesis, and oocyte/embryo quality in different species. These effects could be exploited to support pregnancy and avoid early embryo losses that could occur in dairy sheep breeding. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplementation of microencapsulated/by-passed linseed oil (LO) on ovarian function, embryo implantation rates, and lipid profiles of Sarda ewes during their early pregnancy. Our results demonstrated that the intake of microencapsulated LO at a level of 4.0% of fresh matter increased the plasmatic concentrations of PUFASω3 (p < 0.01) and progesterone (p < 0.05), as well as cholesterol (p < 0.01), triglyceride (p < 0.001), high-density lipoprotein (p < 0.001), and non-esterified fatty acids (p < 0.05). The percentage of ewes in estrus, ovulation rate per mated ewe, number of embryos per ewe, and pregnancy rates were similar between treated and control groups. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of by-pass LO during the preimplantation period increased PUFAS-ω3 distribution at systemic and local levels. Also, this supplementation modified the ewe's lipid profile and improved luteal function with a possible positive effect on embryo-maternal crosstalk and embryo implantation rate during and after the maternal recognition of pregnancy.

Environmental Sustainability of Brewers’ Spent Grains Composting: Effect of Turning Strategies and Mixtures Composition on Greenhouse Gas Emissions

The global production of brewers’ spent grains (BSG) is 37 million tons yearly. Composting represents an eco-friendly method to manage and valorize organic by-products in a circular economy model. This project aims to compare two BSG bin-composting mixtures (BSG and wheat straw with pig slurry solid fraction, MIX1, or sheep manure, MIX2) and approaches (manual turning, MT, and static composting, ST). The two mixtures’ physicochemical characteristics and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions were assessed during the process. The evolution of physicochemical properties is reported in detail. Headspace samples of GHG emissions were collected and analyzed with gas chromatography coupled with specific detectors. Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions were 34.3 ± 0.03 and 31.0 ± 0.06 g C kg−1 fresh matter (FM) for MIX1-MT and MIX2-MT, and 28.8 ± 0.01 and 31.2 ± 0.02 g Ckg−1 FM for MIX1-ST and MIX2-ST. Methane emissions were negligible (all conditions &lt; 0.086 ± 0.00 mg C kg−1 FM). Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from composting are affected by the substrate, bulking material, pile dimension, and manure. Particularly, the total emissions of N2O, estimated as CO2 equivalents, were 45.8 ± 0.2 and 63.0 ± 0.4 g CO2 eq kg−1 FM for MIX1-MT and MIX1-ST, respectively. In both composting approaches, MIX2 showed a low CO2 equivalent (1.8 ± 0.02 and 9.9 ± 0.05 g CO2 eq kg−1 FM for MT and ST), likely due to incomplete decomposition. The bin-composting process represents a solution for recycling and reusing organic waste and livestock manure in small to medium-sized breweries. The solid fraction of the pig slurry resulted in the most suitable manure.

Caracterización de raíces de portainjertos de cítricos desarrollados en contenedores

The objective was to evaluate the root characteristics of citrus rootstocks grown in tubes with different substrates. Planting and development of the plants was carried out in Cazones, Veracruz, Mexico, and the evaluation was carried out at the Fruit Growing Laboratory, Colegio de Postgraduados, Montecillo, State of Mexico. The rootstocks were sour orange, Citrange C-35, Rangpur lime and Volkamerian lemon, transplanted in 1 L tubes filled with sand, peat-agrolite (4:1 v/v) and vega-tepojal soil (3:1 v/v). The experimental design was a randomized complete block factorial arrangement, with four repetitions of five experimental units. Six months after establishment, three repetitions of four plants per treatment were selected, and the following were evaluated: plant height, neck diameter, weight of fresh and dry root matter, number of roots per order and root length. The data were analyzed with the statistical package SAS, an ANOVA and Tukey's comparison of means were determined (p ≤ 0.05). The variable number of roots was subjected to polynomial regression analysis. Vega-tepojal soil gave quality to aerial and radical development, being an alternative for the development of plants in the nursery, Volkamerian lemon showed greater total root length, and second, third, fourth and fifth order roots were found in all rootstocks. In the container the roots developed up to the wall, then they went to the base, where there was natural pruning. The substrate and container influenced the development and shape of the root in the four rootstocks.

Effects of molasses on the quality, aerobic stability, and ruminal degradation characteristics of mixed ensilage of seed-used zucchini peel residue and corn stalk

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to determine the optimal level of molasses required for ensiling the seed-used zucchini peel residue and corn stalks mixtures, using a 2:1 ratio of seed-used zucchini peel residue to corn stalks. The experiment included a control group (CON, with no molasses added), a 1% molasses group (M1, 10 g kg−1 fresh matter), a 2% molasses group (M2, 20 g kg−1 fresh matter), and a 3% molasses group (M3, 30 g kg−1 fresh matter). After 60 days of fermentation, samples of the silage were collected and analyzed for their chemical composition, fermentation quality, aerobic stability, and ruminal degradation characteristics.ResultCompared to the CON group, the addition of molasses significantly decreased both the pH and the ratio of ammonia nitrogen to total nitrogen (NH3-N/TN) in the ensilage mixture of seed-used zucchini peel residue and corn stalks. In the molasses-treated groups, the pH values decreased by 0.08, 0.09, and 0.13, respectively, compared to the control group. The NH3-N/TN ratios decreased by 1.52, 1.86, and 2.24, respectively, compared to the control group. Additionally, the contents of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) in the silage with molasses were significantly lower than those in the CON group. However, the addition of molasses reduced the aerobic stability of the feed, with the 3% molasses-added group showing a significant decrease in aerobic stability. Furthermore, the addition of molasses significantly improved the ruminal degradation rates of the silage, with the M3 group showing ruminal degradation rates of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and ADF at 65.49, 55.26, and 46.18%, respectively.ConclusionThe addition of molasses is beneficial for improving the quality of the ensilage mixture of seed-used zucchini peel residue and corn stalks, improving the nutritional components and increasing the ruminal degradation rate.