Fruit Quality Research Articles

Effects of drone-assisted artificial pollination on fruit set and characteristics in Asian pear

ABSTRACT The ‘Niitaka’ pear relies heavily on artificial pollination, owing to its lack of viable pollen; however, drone-based approaches remain underexplored. This study compared drone-assisted pollen dusting and suspension methods with conventional artificial and natural pollination, aiming to evaluate their effects on fruit set rate, pollen adhesion, and fruit quality. Initial trials revealed that although pollen dusting (17.6%) outperformed suspension pollination (9.5%) in fruit set, both methods were inferior to artificial (37.7%) and natural pollination (27.5%). Notably, sugar content was the highest in drone-treated fruits. In a follow-up trial, a lightweight drone equipped with a precision nozzle and internal compressor achieved a higher fruit set rate (21.0%) than that of the previous system, while using only 8 g of pear pollen (one-fourth the initial amount per unit area). Therefore, even minor design improvements can significantly enhance pollination efficiency, highlighting the potential of drone-assisted pollination as a sustainable alternative for pear cultivation.

Differences in Vegetative, Productive, and Physiological Behaviors in Actinidia chinensis Plants, cv. Gold 3, as A Function of Cane Type

This study investigated the influence of cane diameter on vegetative, productive, and physiological behaviors in Actinidia chinensis, cv. Gold 3. Conducted over two years (2021–2022), the experiment compared canes with larger (HD) and smaller (LD) proximal diameters. This research focused on parameters such as shoot morphology, leaf gas exchange, fruit quality, and hydraulic resistance. The results revealed that HD canes promoted more vigorous growth, with a higher proportion of long and medium shoots, whereas LD canes resulted in shorter shoots. Additionally, the HD canes demonstrated a higher leaf area and more extensive leaf coverage, contributing to enhanced photosynthetic activity, as evidenced by enhanced gas exchange, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rates. This higher photosynthetic efficiency in HD canes resulted in more rapid fruit growth, with a larger fruit size and weight, particularly in fruits from non-terminate shoots. By contrast, fruits on LD canes exhibited slower growth, particularly in terms of fresh weight and dry matter accumulation. Despite these differences, maturation indices, including soluble solids and acidity levels, were not significantly affected by cane type. The findings suggest that selecting HD canes during winter pruning could lead to earlier harvests, with improved fruit quality and productivity, making this practice beneficial for optimizing vineyard management in Actinidia chinensis.

Estimation of Tomato Quality During Storage by Means of Image Analysis, Instrumental Analytical Methods, and Statistical Approaches

The quality and freshness of fruits and vegetables are critical factors in consumer acceptance and are significantly affected during transport and storage. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of greenhouse-grown tomatoes stored for 24 days by combining non-destructive image analysis, spectrophotometric assays (including total phenolic content and antioxidant and antiradical activity assessments), and attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. Additionally, water activity, moisture content, total soluble solids, texture, and color were evaluated. Most physicochemical changes occurred between days 14 and 17, without major impact on overall fruit quality. A progressive transition in peel hue from orange to dark orange, and increased surface irregularity of their textural image were noted. Moreover, the combined use of instrumental and image analyses results via multivariate analysis allowed the clear discrimination of tomatoes according to storage days. In this sense, tomato samples were effectively classified by ATR-FTIR spectral bands, linked to carotenoids, phenolics, and polysaccharides. Machine learning (ML) models, including Random Forest and Gradient Boosting, were trained on image-derived features and accurately predicted shelf life and quality traits, achieving R2 values exceeding 0.9. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of combining imaging, spectroscopy, and ML for non-invasive tomato quality monitoring and support the development of predictive tools to improve postharvest handling and reduce food waste.

Light Down-Conversion Technology Improves Vegetative Growth, Berry Production, and Postharvest Quality in Tunnel-Cultivated Blueberry

This study examined three innovative ‘light-converting films’ that convert green light (−23%) into red light (+8%; Red film), ultraviolet light (−80%) into blue light (+9%; Blue film), and green light (−5.7%) into red light (+4%; Pink film) but also ultraviolet light (−76%) into blue light (+5.6%; Pink film). These films were used for growing blueberry plants under cover under controlled tunnel conditions (27.3 ± 11.7 °C, 51.9 ± 21.6% RH). The use of Red film led to increases in the total plant biomass (+54.2%), and Red and Pink films enhanced the leaf thickness (+17.1% and +14.4%, respectively) as compared to the control (a transparent polyethylene film). No differences in the photosynthetic rate (Pn) were observed at the flowering stage, but a decrease (−25.9%) was observed in plants grown under the Pink film during the green fruit stage. The plants grown under Blue film boosted flower production, leading to +86.8% increase in the total yield. The Blue film improved the total phenolic content (+15.2%) in the fruit, and a +25.3% greater total antioxidant capacity was observed in fruit grown under Pink film. Freshly harvested blueberries were subjected to postharvest experiments (4 °C; in dark conditions; 90–95% RH). The results suggest the importance of Red film in enhancing plant biomass and Red and Blue films in improving fruit yield and maintaining nutraceutical postharvest quality in blueberry fruit.

The CsMYB36-CsSWEET17 module mediates the calcium-induced sucrose accumulation in citrus

Abstract Sugar content serves as a crucial determinant of fruit flavor quality and nutritional value. Calcium plays extensive regulatory roles in fruit development and quality formation, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying calcium-mediated sugar accumulation remain poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrate that calcium treatment enhances sugar accumulation in both citrus fruits and calli, concomitant with upregulated expression of the sucrose transporter gene CsSWEET17. Functional characterization revealed that the membrane-localized CsSWEET17 protein exhibits sucrose transport activity. Transgenic overexpression of CsSWEET17 in citrus juice sacs, calli, and heterologous tomato systems consistently elevated sucrose levels. Conversely, suppression of CsSWEET17 expression through either virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) or RNA interference (RNAi) significantly reduced sucrose content in citrus. Further investigation identified CsMYB36 as a calcium-responsive transcription factor that directly activates CsSWEET17 expression. Transgenic validation demonstrated that both calcium signaling and CsMYB36-mediated sucrose accumulation strictly depend on CsSWEET17 transcriptional regulation. Our findings elucidate a novel calcium-MYB36-SWEET17 regulatory module controlling sucrose accumulation, providing molecular insights for calcium-based strategies in citrus quality improvement and informing fundamental mechanisms of sugar transporter regulation in fruit crops.

First interspecific multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) population in Capsicum peppers: development, phenotypic evaluation, genomic analysis, and prospects

Abstract This work presents the first eight-way multi-parental advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) population in pepper. This interspecific MAGIC population was built with six Capsicum annuum accessions and two C. chinense accessions, selected for encompassing a representative and wide genetic diversity, and being complementary for morphological, agronomic, and fruit quality traits. The population in its third selfing generation has been phenotyped with reliable descriptors and genotyped using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) to assess its overall diversity, homozygosity, parental contributions, and genetic structure. A great variability was found in the phenotyping study, showing many forms of recombination of all the founder lines. Even more, new phenotypic combinations were found, as well as transgressive inheritance in quantitative traits. The S3-generation contained a balanced distribution of the parental genomes and each S3-individual seemed to contain a unique genomic combination of the founder lines reaching a high homozygosity. In this regard, a preliminary genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed for highly heritable traits to evaluate the potential of this population for future breeding prospects. Strong associations were found for most traits analysed, like stem pubescence and fruit colour at maturity stage, with associated genes related to response to stress and defence functions; or fruit wall consistency, with associated genes related to lipid metabolism. Our results show that this first Capsicum MAGIC population is a valuable genetic resource for research and breeding purposes in peppers, by identifying genomic regions associated to traits of interest and its potential for future GWAS in more complex agronomical and fruit quality traits.

EFECTO DE FERTILIZANTES ÓRGANO-MINERALES Y LOMBRICOMPOSTA SOBRE PARÁMETROS MORFOFISIOLÓGICOS Y CAPSAICINOIDES EN Capsicum chinense Jacq.

<p><strong>Background:</strong> Vermicomposts and mineral organ fertilizers are used as a source of nutrients in the substrate of horticultural crops under greenhouses and promote improvements in growth, production and fruit quality. <strong>Objective:</strong> To evaluate the effect of an organo-mineral fertilizer and two vermicompost origins on morphophysiological parameters, yield and capsaicinoid contents in Super Habanero F1 chili fruits under greenhouse conditions. <strong>Methodology:</strong> A completely randomized experimental design was used with six treatments: T1 Chemical Fertilizers (CF), T2 Organo-mineral Fertilizer (FO), T3 Sheep Manure Vermicompost (L1), T4 Coffee Pulp Vermicompost (L2), T5 FO+L1 and T6 FO+L2, each with twenty replications. Plant height (cm), stem diameter (mm), number of leaves, leaf area (cm<sup>2</sup>), chlorophyll content (SPAD units), number of total flowers, number of total fruits, harvest index (%), yield per plant (g) sum of 5 harvests, fruit weight (g), equatorial and polar diameter (mm), firmness (N) and capsaicin content (mg CAP or DIH 100 g<sup>-1</sup> dry base) were evaluated. The results were analyzed using an ANOVA and contrast of Tukey's minimum significant difference (HSD) with a significant level of 5 % (α= 0.05). <strong>Results:</strong> The statistical analysis showed significant differences (<em>p≤</em>0.05) between the treatments evaluated. In fact, there was a very marked trend in all variables where FO+L2 was the best treatment for morphophysiological parameters, with yield of 989 g plant<sup>-1</sup>, fruit quality and capsaicin (983.63 mg 100 g<sup>-1</sup> db), dihydrocapsaicin (238.89 mg 100 g<sup>-1</sup> db) and capsaicinoid contents (1222.53 mg 100 g<sup>-1</sup> db). <strong>Implications:</strong> It is possible to increase the yield and improve the quality characteristics of the habanero pepper fruit, through the application of organ-mineral fertilizers and vermicomposts. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> The application of organ-mineral fertilizers plus the incorporation of vermicompost based on coffee pulp (FO+L2) increased the morphophysiology variables, fruit quality, yield per plant and the contents of capsaicinoids in Super Habanero F1 chili fruit.</p>

Enhancing productivity and quality of blackberries ‘Čačanska Bestrna’ with bioregulator Regalis application

Background Blackberry ( Rubus subg. Rubus Watson) is valued for its nutritional content, and optimizing its production is crucial in temperate regions like Serbia. Plant growth regulators (PGRs), such as Regalis (Prohexadione-Ca), have potential to enhance yield and fruit quality by modulating plant growth. This study evaluates the effects of Regalis on the ‘Čačanska Bestrna’ blackberry cultivar in Serbia. Objective This study aims to assess the impact of Regalis on vegetative growth, yield, fruit quality, and nutrient composition of blackberries. Methods The study was conducted at two locations in Western Serbia on blackberry canes foliar treated with the growth regulator Regalis and compared to untreated control bushes. Physical and chemical fruit traits were determined by validated analytical procedures. Mineral content was analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Results The results showed that Regalis significantly improved yield, fruit size, soluble solids, sugars, and micronutrient content, with effects varying by cultivation site. Conclusions Regalis is an effective tool for enhancing blackberry yield and quality, especially under specific agro-ecological conditions in Serbia. Further research on long-term effects is recommended.

Effect of Tm-2a, Sw-5 and Ty-1 Gene Introduction on the Agronomic Performance and Metabolic Profile of Traditional Muchamiel-Type Tomato Varieties

The introduction of virus resistance genes into traditional tomato varieties offers a strategy to preserve genetic diversity and enhance commercial viability. However, the homozygous presence of these genes has been associated with negative effects on yield and fruit quality. This two-year study evaluated the impact of introducing the Tm-2a, Sw-5 and Ty-1 genes, which are associated with resistance to ToMV, TSWV and TYLCV, respectively, on the agronomic yield, fruit characteristics and metabolic profile of Muchamiel-type cultivars. Four hybrids were obtained by crossing two breeding lines carrying the resistance genes in homozygosis (UMH1139 and UMH1200) with two traditional susceptible varieties (MC1 and MC2). Hybrids matched or exceeded the agronomic performance of their parents. Fruit morphology of the hybrids was similar to traditional parents. The presence of Ty-1 correlated with reduced organic acid concentration, though hybrids exhibited higher levels than the homozygous line, UMH1200. No negative effects on soluble sugars or secondary metabolites were observed. Genotypes carrying resistance genes, breeding lines and hybrids exhibited higher flavonoid contents, suggesting a potential role in virus response. Hybrids maintained or improved the bioactive profile of traditional varieties. These findings support the development of Muchamiel-type hybrids that combine the presence of virus resistance genes in heterozygosity with the desirable traits of traditional tomatoes.

Tomato in the spotlight: Light regulation of whole-plant physiology in tomato.

The introduction of LED light in plant research and controlled environment agriculture has given a boost to understanding how light regulates tomato physiology. This paper reviews the regulation of whole-plant physiological processes in tomato by light. Emphasis is on morphogenesis, light interception, photosynthesis, source/sink interactions, assimilate partitioning, fruit set, fruit development, plant-water relations and how this controls plant growth and fruit quality. Five key aspects of light determine the ultimate plant response, i.e. intensity, photoperiod, spectrum, directionality, and energy. Tomato possesses five phytochromes, four cryptochromes, two phototropins, one zeitlupe, and one UV-B photoreceptor. Via spectral sensing and photosynthesis, light affects plant morphology, which in turn affects the light interception and consequently whole-plant carbon assimilation. Photosynthesis and carbon partitioning are dynamic processes affected by light. Furthermore, light plays a pivotal role in regulating plant-water-nutrient dynamics by influencing transpiration, stomatal conductance, hydraulic conductance, and cell wall properties. Changes in light intensity and spectrum may also increase contents of ascorbate, carotenoids, sugars and volatiles improving fruit quality. The complex physiological responses of tomato plants to the five aspects of light and their interaction, render endless opportunities for future scientific research with the aim of improving light-use efficiency, yield, and quality.

Improving the Surface Color and Delaying Softening of Peach by Minimizing the Harmful Effects of Ethylene in the Package

Peach is a typical ethylene-sensitive fruit, and low levels of ethylene can accelerate softening during storage. In this study, we used an ethylene absorbent (EA) and 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) to minimize the detrimental impact of ethylene on the quality of peaches in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), and analyzed fruit firmness, color change, anthocyanin content, and the expression patterns of cell wall metabolism-related genes and anthocyanin synthesis-related genes during storage. The results showed that ethylene in the MAP package decreased the firmness and total anthocyanin content of the peaches, while MAP combined with EA (MAP+EA) treatment effectively maintained the firmness of the peaches and counteracted the inhibition of anthocyanin accumulation in the peach skin by ethylene. In addition, the peaches treated with MAP+EA exhibited higher a* values, lower weight loss, and lower activities of cell-wall-modifying enzymes. Meanwhile, MAP+EA treatment also significantly increased the expression of color-related genes such as flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase gene (F3′H), dihydroflavonol 4-reductase (DFR), anthocyanidin synthase (ANS), and UDP-flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase (UFGT). Furthermore, a good synergistic effect was observed between 1-MCP and EA in delaying softening and promoting coloring of peach fruit in the MAP package. The combination of 1-MCP and EA treatment may have the potential to alleviate softening and improve the color and quality of post-harvest fruit during storage.

Optimizing Dragon Fruit Quality and Maturity Classification Through Deep Learning Techniques

Optimizing Dragon Fruit Quality and Maturity Classification Through Deep Learning Techniques

A shade-hyposensitive tomato line shows altered auxin homeostasis and higher fruit yield under high-density field conditions.

Plants detect the presence of nearby vegetation as a reduced ratio of red to far-red light (low R : FR). This proximity shade signal can be simulated in the lab by supplementing white light (W) with FR (W + FR). While shade avoidance strategies are considered undesirable in agricultural crops, FR supplementation enhances plant growth and fruit quality in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Here we compared the response of different tomato genotypes to W + FR in the lab and identified one Solanum pennellii introgression line (IL2-2) with a shade-tolerant phenotype at the seedling stage. Compared to the shade-avoider parental genotype M82, IL2-2 plants showed reduced elongation upon W + FR exposure and a disrupted expression of auxin-related genes both under W and W + FR. At harvest, W + FR treatment improved M82 fruit quality by increasing °Brix, ascorbic acid, and carotenoids, and these quality traits remained virtually unchanged in IL2-2. Under high density (HD) conditions, fruit quality traits were hardly impacted by planting density or genotype, but IL2-2 showed improved fruit yield. Our findings suggest that IL2-2 could serve as a valuable genotype for high-density or intercropping agrosystems.

Comparative Transcriptome Analysis in Tomato Fruit Reveals Genes, Pathways, and Processes Affected by the LEC1-LIKE4 Transcription Factor

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a globally important crop, and enhancing its fruit quality and phenotypic traits is a key objective in modern breeding. This study investigates the role of the LEAFY-COTYLEDON1-LIKE4 (L1L4), an NF-YB subunit of the nuclear factor Y (NF-Y) transcription factor, in tomato fruit development using RNA-sequencing data from zinc-finger nuclease (ZFN)-targeted disruption lines. Differential gene expression (DEG) analyses of two independent l1l4 mutant lines compared to the wild-type line revealed significant alterations in key metabolic pathways and regulatory networks that are implicated in fruit ripening. Specifically, L1L4 disruption impacted the genes and pathways related to the fruit’s color development (carotenoid and flavonoids), texture (cell wall modification), flavor (sugar and volatile organic compound metabolism), and ripening-related hormone signaling. The analyses also revealed multiple differentially expressed histones, histone modifiers, and transcription factors (ERFs, MYBs, bHLHs, WRKYs, C2H2s, NACs, GRAS, MADs, and bZIPs), indicating that L1L4 participates in a complex regulatory network. These findings provide valuable insights into the role of L1L4 in orchestrating tomato fruit development and highlight it as a potential target for genetically improving the fruit quality.

EFECTO DEL TIPO DE LIXIVIADO DE LOMBRICOMPOSTA SOBRE EL CRECIMIENTO, RENDIMIENTO Y CALIDAD DE MAÍZ

<p><strong>Background.</strong> Vermicompost leachate enhances soil quality and promotes sustainable agricultural production. However, the characteristics and effects of vermicompost leachate on crops depend on the type of waste and the proportion in which the materials are mixed during their preparation. <strong>Objective.</strong> To evaluate the effect of different types of vermicompost leachate on the morphological parameters, yield, and fruit quality of corn (hybrid AN-447). <strong>Methodology.</strong> Eighteen vermicompost leachates were evaluated, obtained from vermicomposting various mixtures of three types of manure (bovine [V], equine [E], and goat [C]), two plant residues (vegetables [H] and corn stover [R]), and three manure-to-plant residue ratios (50:50, 60:40, and 70:30%, v:v), along with one commercial vermicompost leachate (LC), and a control. A randomized complete block design with four replications was used. Leachates were drench-applied at 10% every 15 days starting from corn emergence. <strong>Results.</strong> The results showed that the leachates had a significant effect on morphological parameters and ear characteristics, though they were not statistically superior to the control. On the other hand, corn grain yield varied according to the type of vermicompost leachate applied, with most leachates showing a notable increase in yield, on average 61% higher than the control. Additionally, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, vitamin C content, and fruit firmness fluctuated depending on the leachate type; however, only total soluble solids and titratable acidity were improved with the application of leachates E70-H30 and C60-R40. <strong>Implications.</strong> The study suggests that careful selection of both the type of leachate and the proportion of waste materials used in its production is essential to maximize its benefits in agricultural production. <strong>Conclusion.</strong> The type of vermicompost leachate applied to corn crops affects morphological traits, yield, and fruit quality in different ways.</p>

Bionanocomposite Coating Film Technologies for Disease Management in Fruits and Vegetables

Fruit and vegetable production is often impacted by microbial pathogens that compromise the quality of produce and lead to significant economic losses at the postharvest stages. Due to their efficacy, agrochemicals are widely applied in disease management; nevertheless, this practice has led to the appearance of microbial strains resistant to these types of agrochemicals. Additionally, there is growing concern among consumers about the presence of these chemical residues in fruits and the negative impacts they cause on multiple ecosystems. In response, there is a growing need for safe, effective, green, and sustainable disease control technologies. Bionanocomposites, with their unique ability to combine nanomaterials and biopolymers that have attractive properties, represents a promising alternative for postharvest disease control. These technologies allow for the development of functional coatings and films with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and barrier properties, which are critical for extending shelf life and preserving fruit quality. Recent advances have demonstrated that integrating nanoparticles, such as ZnO, TiO2, Ag, and chitosan-based nanosystems, into biopolymeric matrices, like alginate, pectin, starch, or cellulose, can enhance mechanical strength, regulate gas exchange, and control the release of active agents. This review presents systematized information that is focused on the creation of coatings and films based on bionanocomposites for the management of disease in fruits and vegetables. It also discusses the use of diverse biopolymers and nanomaterials and their impact on the quality and shelf life of fruits and vegetables.

Pomological and Biochemical Properties of Blackberry (Rubus fruticocus) Genotypes

ABSTRACTThe aim of this study was to examine the genotypes of wild blackberries growing naturally in Tunceli province in terms of fruit characteristics and to determine the ones with superior characteristics. Nine different genotypes were determined by population screening and 100 fruits were collected from each genotype. The physical properties such as fruit weight, length, width, as well as color, chemical content, and antioxidant properties were examined. Statistically significant differences were found among the genotypes; fruit weight, length, and width varied between 0.71 and 1.19 g, 10.08 and 12.63 mm, and 12.25 and 14.33 mm, respectively. The G9 genotype had the largest fruits, and the G6 genotype had the smallest fruits. In fruit color analyses, significant differences were observed among the genotypes, and the G2 genotype stood out with the highest L* value (20.05), but G9 had the lowest a* value (0.92). Total soluble solids (TSS) content varied between 11.95% in G2 and 21.10% in G7. Vitamin C content was highest in the G6 genotype (54.46 mg 100 g−1), while G9 had the lowest vitamin C content (22.66 mg 100 g−1). Significant differences were also observed among the genotypes in terms of phenolic content, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity. As a result, in this study, significant differences in organic acid contents were determined among wild blackberry genotypes in Tunceli province. The G1 genotype was the richest in malic acid, while the G6 was the genotype with the highest ascorbic acid level. Various differences were also found among the genotypes in terms of oxalic acid, citric acid, and other organic acid contents. These findings may constitute an important resource in determining the commercial production and potential health benefits of wild blackberries. In the selection of blackberry genotypes, consideration of these organic acid contents is important, especially in terms of taste and nutritional value.

Using Calibration Transfer Strategy to Update Hyperspectral Model for Quantitating Soluble Solid Content of Blueberry Across Different Batches

Model updating is a challenging task with regard to maintaining the performance of non-destructive detection models while using hyperspectral imaging techniques for detecting the internal quality of fresh fruits like blueberries. Different sample batches and differences in hyperspectral image acquisition environments may lead to a significant decline in the performance of hyperspectral detection models. This study investigated the transferability of a hyperspectral model for the quantitating soluble solid content of blueberries across different batches for two harvest years. Hyperspectral images and SSC values of blueberries were collected from two batches, including 364 samples from 2024 and 175 samples from 2025. The differences between SSC measurements and spectral data across these two batches were analyzed. Based on the sample dataset of the year 2024, a high-performance quantitative model for detecting SSC values was established by combining it with partial least squares regression (PLSR) and competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS). This high-performance model could achieve a high determination coefficient (RP2) of 0.8965 and a low root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.3707 °Brix. Using the sample dataset for the year 2025, the hyperspectral model was updated by the semi-supervised parameter-free calibration enhancement (SS-PFCE) algorithm. The updated model performed better than those established using individual datasets from 2024 and 2025, and obtained an RP2 of 0.8347 and an RMSEP of 0.4930 °Brix. This indicates that the calibration transfer strategy is superior in improving hyperspectral model performance. This study demonstrated that the SS-PFCE algorithm, as a calibration transfer strategy, could effectively improve the transferability of the established model for detecting the SSC of blueberries across different sample batches.

Synergistic effects of Fe nanocomplex and nitrophenolate-based biostimulant on growth and physiological performance of tomato seedlings

This study examines the dose-dependent synergistic effect of foliar-sprayed iron nanocomplex (Fe NC; 0%, 0.2%, 0.4% w/v) and the nitrophenolate biostimulant Atonik (0, 125, 250 ppm) on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) seedlings under controlled greenhouse conditions. This novel approach integrates nanotechnology and green biostimulants to enhance plant growth and physiological performance, marking a new direction of interest compared to conventional farming. At 30 days post-treatment, the optimum blend (0.4% Fe NC + 250 ppm Atonik) significantly enhanced growth indicators compared to the control: stem length (+ 84.2%), root length (+ 179.9%), leaf number (+ 190.8%), stem girth (+ 124.1%), and dry weight (+ 173.6%). Physiological improvements included net photosynthesis (Pn: +44.2%), stomatal conductance (Gs: +257.1%), and intercellular CO₂ (Ci: +264.1%), and lower stomatal limitation (Ls: -72.6%). Biochemical estimation showed high concentrations of chlorophyll a (+ 48.7%), chlorophyll b (+ 79.0%), carotenoids (+ 122.2%), soluble proteins (+ 42.2%), and carbohydrates (+ 133.3%). Hormonal regulation showed enhanced gibberellic acid (GA: +60.5%) and auxin (IAA: +74.4%) but decreased abscisic acid (ABA: -38.1% in leaves). Stem nutrient loading was improved by N (+ 75.2%), P (+ 54.6%), K (+ 48.2%), Ca (+ 40.2%), Mg (+ 32.5%), and Fe (+ 93.3%). The aim of this study was to investigate the synergistic action of FeNC and nitrophenolate biostimulant (Atonik) on improving the performance of tomato seedling through combined physiological, biochemical and molecular mechanisms, and formulating an effective nano-biofertilizer mixture for sustainable agricultur. On the basis of these findings, future research would need to investigate the long-term effects of Fe NC and Atonik on fruit production and quality, and their use in various crop species for maximizing agricultural sustainability.

Research on RBF-PID hybrid drive control models for drone pesticide applications in tropical orchards

ABSTRACT Durian is an important economic crop in Southeast Asia; it is susceptible to various pests and diseases, which affects its fruit quality and yield. Traditional manual and mechanical spraying methods have many shortcomings in spraying durian blind spots (such as tall and dense durian canopies). Drones can fly over these blind spots and carry out all-around pesticide spraying. How to combine artificial intelligence and automatic control to realize the spraying of pesticides by drones in the blind spots of durian trees has become a key research issue. Therefore, this study proposes an IM-PID (Improved Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control algorithm to improve the accuracy of drone pesticide spraying in the blind areas of durian tree pests and diseases. It introduces the RBF (Radial Basis Function) neural network to adjust the proportion, integral, and differential of incremental PID controller, which adjusts spraying parameters in real time to improve the accuracy of pesticide spraying. The experimental results show that the IM-PID control algorithm is superior to the traditional PID, fuzzy logic and sliding mode control algorithms regarding the spray flow accuracy, droplet distribution uniformity, and dynamic adjustment capabilities. It can significantly improve the efficiency of pesticide spraying in durian orchards and solve the problem of traditional spraying methods in blind areas, which controls pests and diseases and ensures the high quality and yield of durian fruits. It also reduces the environmental impact of excessive pesticide spraying and improves the economic benefits of durian cultivation.