High Macronutrient Concentrations Research Articles

Asian dust-deposition flux to the subarctic Pacific estimated using single quartz particles

Iron availability limits marine ecosystem activities in large areas of the ocean. However, the sources and seasonal supply of iron, critically important for controlling surface ocean biogeochemistry and carbon cycling, are poorly understood. The western subarctic Pacific is a high-nutrient and low-chlorophyll region, and despite high concentrations of macronutrients, iron limits phytoplankton production in summer. Here, we determine the seasonal deposition flux of Asian dust using scanning electron microscope–cathodoluminescence analysis of single quartz particles derived from the western subarctic Pacific during 2003–2022 to trace provenance. We found a high (up to 6.9 mg m−2 day−1) deposition flux of Asian dust in May, June, and early July, with an annual average of 1.0 ± 0.2 mg m−2 day−1. The supply of dissolved-iron flux calculated from Asian dust was 0.9 ± 0.3 µg m−2 day−1 during the high productivity season (April–July), which is approximately half that from the deeper part of the ocean, calculated from vertical profiles of dissolved iron. Our study provides a reliable approach for estimating iron supply from dust to the surface ocean that may be critical for sustaining biological productivity under future ocean stratification, which suppresses nutrient supply from the subsurface ocean.

Spatiotemporal variability of dissolved inorganic macronutrients along the northern Antarctic Peninsula (1996–2019)

AbstractThe northern Antarctic Peninsula is a key region of the Southern Ocean due to its complex ocean dynamics, distinct water mass sources, and the climate‐driven changes taking place in the region. Despite the importance of macronutrients in supporting strong biological carbon uptake and storage, little is known about their spatiotemporal variability along the northern Antarctic Peninsula. Hence, we explored for the first time a 24‐year time series (1996–2019) in this region to understand the processes involved in the spatial and interannual variability of macronutrients. We found high macronutrient concentrations, even in surface waters and during strong phytoplankton blooms. Minimum concentrations of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN; 16 μmol kg−1), phosphate (0.7 μmol kg−1), and silicic acid (40 μmol kg−1) in surface waters are higher than those recorded in surrounding regions. The main source of macronutrients is the intrusions of Circumpolar Deep Water and its modified variety, while local sources (organic matter remineralization, water mass mixing, and mesoscale structures) can enhance their spatiotemporal variability. However, we identified a depletion in silicic acid due to the influence of Dense Shelf Water from the Weddell Sea. Macronutrient concentrations show substantial interannual variability driven by the balance between the intrusions of modified Circumpolar Deep Water and advection of Dense Shelf Water, which is largely modulated by the Southern Annular Mode (SAM) and to some extent by El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO). These findings are critical to improving our understanding of the natural variability of this Southern Ocean ecosystem and how it is responding to climate changes.

In vitro spore germination and gametophyte development of two Cyathea species of South America in response to nutrient media

Abstract Cyathea corcovadensis and Cyathea phalerata are tree ferns native to Brazil, endangered in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Spore germination and gametophyte development in media with different nutrient formulations and activated charcoal were evaluated, aiming to develop a process for obtaining plants of the two species. Spores were sown in four semi-solid culture media: Meyer, Dyer, MS with 50% and MS with 25% of the original macronutrient concentration. For each medium, 10 replicates were carried out (flasks with 5 mg of spores/30 mL of medium), with and without 1% activated charcoal, respectively. Spore germination and gametophytic development (laminar and cordate stages) were quantified at 30, 60 and 90 days of culture. Cyathea corcovadensis and C. phalerata germinated and developed gametophytes in all media. For both species, the highest percentages of germination and cordate gametophytes (more advanced development stage) were recorded in Meyer medium without activated charcoal, which has higher concentrations of macronutrients and no micronutrients compared to the other evaluated media. We recommend cultivating the plants in Meyer medium for greater gametophytic development and subsequent sporophyte obtention, as a biotechnological tool for C. corcovadensis and C. phalerata conservation and for environmental restoration and enrichment using these tree ferns.

Effect of foliar mineral fertilizer and plant growth regulator application on seed yield and yield components of soybean (Glycine max) cultivars

Soybean is known for its high protein content, which is the reason why it is widely used as one of the main food sources for humans and animals. In order to increase soybean yield, farmers tend to use foliar mineral fertilizer and plant growth regulator to this crop. Furthermore, a starter fertilizer application into the soil without foliar application may cause low yield contents of soybean. The aim of this investigation was to estimate the effects of different foliar mineral fertilizers (MF) and plant growth regulator (RGR) application on quantitative traits (plant height (PH), lower pods attachment height (LPH), number of seed pods per plant (NSPP), number of seeds per plant (NSP), weight of seeds per plant (WSP) and 1000-seed weight (TSW) and soybean grain yield (SGY)) in three soybean cultivars (Lastochka, Akku and Galina) in Shymkent of the Turkestan region, Kazakhstan. Four treatments of fertilization were tested: control (starter fertilizer, Р60К45), Р60К45 + Mo+B, Р60К45 + Epin and Р60К45 +Vuksal. Mo+ B, Epin and Vuksal were foliar applied one-two times at growth stage. The field experiments were carried out in South-Western Research Institute of Animal Husbandry and Plant Growing, during the years 2019, 2020 and 2021. In both research years, Akku had higher values for all investigated traits than Lastochka and Galina. Results showed that foliar MF and PGR application significantly increased the values for PH, LPH, NSPP, NSP, WSP, TSW and SGY. Vuksal is more effective than Epin and Mo,B in soybean cultivars because Vuksal is a liquid fertilizer that contains has higher concentration of macronutrients (16%N, 16%P2O5, 12%K2O+me, w/v). Generally, cultivar Akku and treatment starter fertilizer (Р60К45) + Vuksal (2,5 L/ha) may be recommended in soybean production in localities with similar agro-ecological conditions.

Physical and chemical characterization of sediments from an Andean river exposed to mining and agricultural activities: The Moquegua River, Peru

This study presents an analysis of sediments in an Andean river impacted by both natural conditions and anthropogenic activities. Fifty samples were collected from selected sites throughout the Moquegua River drainage basin, and Tambo River headwaters at Pasto Grande, in Peru, and analysed with X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Si, Ca, Al, Fe, and O, common constituents of soils, were dominant, along with K, N, and P. The latter originating as primary macronutrients or chemical residuals from fertilizers used in agriculture. Higher concentrations of macronutrients and organic components were found in agricultural and urban areas, respectively. Arsenic minerals were also detected, which occur naturally, but possibly at levels augmented by anthropogenic activity. The application of cluster analysis revealed clustering between arsenic, arsenolite, and potassium but no significant geospatial correlation between sample sites in the drainage basin.

Assessment of Multi-Nutrients and Heavy Metals in Inorganic Fertilizers Widely Used by Indonesian Farmers Using NAA

This research aims to determine the concentration of multi-nutrients and heavy metals and investigate the correlation among them in the seven inorganic fertilizers in Indonesia. Sample analysis was carried out using the NAA method. The highest concentrations of macro-nutrients were K (36.54 %) and Cl (18.09%) found in the KCl sample, while Ca (23.01%) was observed in the TSP sample. In the case of micro-nutrients, the highest concentrations of Se (0.36 mg/kg), Ti (597 mg/kg), Br (1.84%), and Ni (2.46 mg/kg) detected in the NPK sample. Meanwhile, the highest concentrations of Co (19.57 mg/kg) and Na (1.40%) were measured in the ZA sample, while Mg, with the highest concentration of 1.78%, was found in the KMgS sample. The micro-nutrients with the highest concentration detected in the TSP sample were Cr (45.96 mg/kg), Zn (342.6 mg/kg), and Mn (1331 mg/kg). Non-essential elements such as U, V, La, Sb, Sm, Th, Hf, Sr, Cs, Tb, Sc, Rb, Ta, and Eu were also detected in the fertilizer samples with the highest concentrations in the TSP sample. Statistical tests of multi-nutrient and heavy metals concentrations indicated that multi-nutrient and heavy metals in fertilizers are complex.

Nutrient stock in the forest component in a crop-livestock-forest integration system in Central Brazil

Integrated systems are sustainable alternatives, where agricultural, forestry, and/or livestock components occupy a given area through consortium, rotation, or succession. Considering this importance, this work had as objective to quantify the stock of above-ground biomass (wood, leaves, bark, and branches) of 6 years Eucalyptus urograndis in a crop-livestock-forest integration system (CLFS). It also involved calculation of the nutrient utilization in biomass conversion through the Biological Utilization Coefficient (BUC) and design of different export scenarios of these nutrients through the harvest in order to calculate the reduction in the demand for inputs. Nutrient stock was determined from the biomass sampled in the field and from the plant tissue analysis. It is verified that the highest concentrations of macronutrients are present in wood component, except for Ca. The concentration gradient of micronutrients was: Leaves> Fe> Mn> B> Cu> Zn; Branches and Bark: Fe> Mn > B> Zn> Cu; and wood: Mn > Fe > Zn > Cu > B. Considering BUC conversion rate decline, it presented the following order: S> P> Mg> Ca> N> K for macronutrients and B> Cu> Zn> Fe> Mn for micronutrients. The most appropriate export scenario was to harvest only timber component to minimize the nutritional export. The nutritional dynamics within the eucalyptus are altered according to the diametric structure of the trees. The nutritional elements are concentrated in different compartments according to the availability and need of the plants.

Time-Dependent Changes in the Physico-Chemical Parameters and Growth Responses of Sedum acre (L.) to Waste-Based Growing Substrates in Simulation Extensive Green Roof Experiment

Over the last decade, an increase in the use of locally available, recycled, and waste materials as growing media components have occurred in various regions of the world in extensive green roof technology. For eco-concept reasons, such a strategy appears to be appropriate, but can be problematic due to difficulties in obtaining proper parameters of growing substrate. The growing media should be properly engineered in order to enable the proper functioning of green roofs and provide suitable environment for ideal root growth. The aim of the study was to assess the utility of locally occurring waste materials for growing media composition and estimate plant- and time-dependent changes in the physico-chemical parameters of waste-based substrates in a simulated extensive green roof system during a two-year Sedum acre L. cultivation. Five different substrate compositions were prepared using silica waste, crushed brick, Ca- and Zn-aggregates, melaphyre, tuff, sand, muck soil, urban compost, spent mushroom, and coconut fibres. Optimal water capacity, particle-size distribution, pH and salts concentration were found in all substrates. A higher concentration of macronutrients (N, P, K, Mg) and trace elements (B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Ni, Pb, and Cr) was found in waste-based substrates than in the commercial medium. In comparison to the parameters determined before establish the experiment, bulk density of tested growing media decreased, except for the substrates where the source of organic matter was the rapidly mineralising spent mushroom. The organic matter content in substrates after the two-year vegetation increased in relation to the ready-made substrate, with the exception of the composition with spent mushroom. After two years of the experiment, all available macronutrients and trace elements (with the exception of mineral N, K, SO4-S, and B) concentration were higher than in 2014, while pH, salt concentration was lower. In general, plants grown in waste substrates had lower dry matter content and higher biomass. A significantly higher biomass of S. acre L. was found in the first year of the experiment. In the second year of the research, the plants grown in the commercial medium, the substrate with silica waste, and the substrate with spent mushroom produced higher biomass than in the first year. No symptoms of abnormal growth were observed, despite the higher trace element concentrations in plants collected from waste-based substrate. Waste-based growing media can be considered as a valuable root environment for S. acre L. in an extensive green roof system.

Alkaline Dehydration of Human Urine Collected in Source-Separated Sanitation Systems Using Magnesium Oxide

Fresh human urine, after it is alkalized to prevent the enzymatic hydrolysis of urea, can be dehydrated to reduce its volume and to produce a solid fertilizer. In this study, we investigated the suitability of MgO to alkalize and dehydrate urine. We selected MgO due to its low solubility (<2 g·L−1) and relatively high saturation pH (9.9 ± 0.2) in urine. Using a laboratory-scale setup, we dehydrated urine added to pure MgO and MgO mixed with co-substrates (biochar, wheat bran, or calcium hydroxide) at a temperature of 50°C. We found that, dehydrating urine added to a mixture of MgO (25% w/w), biochar, and wheat bran resulted in a mass reduction of >90% and N recovery of 80%, and yielded products with high concentrations of macronutrients (7.8% N, 0.7% P and 3.9% K). By modeling the chemical speciation in urine, we also showed that ammonia stripping rather than urea hydrolysis limited the N recovery, since the urine used in our study was partially hydrolyzed. To maximize the recovery of N during alkaline urine dehydration using MgO, we recommend treating fresh/un-hydrolysed urine a temperature <40°C, tailoring the drying substrate to capture NH4+ as struvite, and using co-substrates to limit the molecular diffusion of ammonia. Treating fresh urine by alkaline dehydration requires only 3.6 kg MgO cap−1y−1 and a cost of US$ 1.1 cap−1y−1. Therefore, the use of sparingly soluble alkaline compounds like MgO in urine-diverting sanitation systems holds much promise.

On the Use of Multivariate Analysis and Land Evaluation for Potential Agricultural Development of the Northwestern Coast of Egypt

The development of the agricultural sector is considered the backbone of sustainable development in Egypt. While the developing countries of the world face many challenges regarding food security due to rapid population growth and limited agricultural resources, this study aimed to assess the soils of Sidi Barrani and Salloum using multivariate analysis to determine the land capability and crop suitability for potential alternative crop uses, based on using principal component analysis (PCA), agglomerative hierarchical cluster analysis (AHC) and the Almagra model of MicroLEIS. In total, 24 soil profiles were dug, to represent the geomorphic units of the study area, and the soil physicochemical parameters were analyzed in laboratory. The land capability assessment was classified into five significant classes (C1 to C5) based on AHC and PCA analyses. The class C1 represents the highest capable class while C5 is assigned to lowest class. The results indicated that about 7% of the total area was classified as highly capable land (C1), which is area characterized by high concentrations of macronutrients (N, P, K) and low soil salinity value. However, about 52% of the total area was assigned to moderately high class (C2), and 29% was allocated in moderate class (C3), whilst the remaining area (12%) was classified as the low (C4) and not capable (C5) classes, due to soil limitations such as shallow soil depth, high salinity, and increased erosion susceptibility. Moreover, the results of the Almagra soil suitability model for ten crops were described into four suitability classes, while about 37% of the study area was allocated in the highly suitable class (S2) for wheat, olive, alfalfa, sugar beet and fig. Furthermore, 13% of the area was categorized as highly suitable soil (S2) for citrus and peach. On the other hand, about 50% of the total area was assigned to the marginal class (S4) for most of the selected crops. Hence, the use of multivariate analysis, mapping land capability and modeling the soil suitability for diverse crops help the decision makers with regard to potential agricultural development.

Controls on Primary Productivity in the Eastern Equatorial Pacific, East of the Galapagos Islands, During the Penultimate Deglaciation

AbstractModern biogeochemical conditions of the Eastern Equatorial Pacific (EEP) region are characterized by high macronutrient concentrations but low phytoplankton abundance due to both iron and silicic acid limitation. Since primary producers significantly impact the global carbon cycle, paleoproductivity in relation to climate change and nutrient availability in this region has been a topic of a number of studies. However, the complex dynamics of this region, especially east of the Galapagos Islands, has led to some discrepancies when linking reconstructed paleoproductivity with potential mechanisms for higher primary productivity. Here we focus on reconstructing primary productivity of haptophyte algae and diatoms, as well as continental material input, sea surface salinity, and sea surface temperature, and compare these reconstructions with existing records for the period comprised between 150 and 110 ka (the penultimate deglaciation period) with the aim to understand the mechanisms that most significantly influence phytoplankton growth over the EEP region east of the Galapagos Islands. Our results suggest enhanced upwelling in the EEP system during the penultimate deglaciation and increased phytoplankton abundance mainly as the result of both the increasing influence of nutrient‐rich Southern Ocean sourced waters through the Equatorial Undercurrent and a higher input of iron through atmospheric deposition. The highest phytoplankton abundances recorded at the study site during the penultimate deglaciation also suggest that maximum input of nutrients might have occurred during the millennial‐scale event Heinrich Event 11 in the North Atlantic as a result of global atmospheric and oceanic reorganizations.

Role of Iron in the Marquesas Island Mass Effect

AbstractA remarkable chlorophyll‐a concentration (Chl, a proxy of phytoplankton biomass) plume can be noticed on remotely sensed ocean color observations at the boundary separating the equatorial mesotrophic from the subtropical oligotrophic waters in the central South Pacific Ocean. This prominent biological feature is known as the island mass effect of the Marquesas archipelago. Waters surrounding these islands present high macronutrient concentrations but an iron depletion. In this study, the origin of Chl enhancement is investigated using a modeling approach. Four simulations based on identical physical and biogeochemical forcings but with different iron sources are conducted and analyzed. Only simulations considering an iron input from the island sediments present similar patterns (despite being too weak) of vertical and horizontal Chl distributions as compared to biogeochemical‐Argo profiling float and satellite observations. In addition, simulations with no other iron input than the boundary forcings reveal the relative importance of remote processes in modulating the seasonal pattern of Chl around the archipelago through horizontal advection of nutrient‐rich waters from the equator toward the archipelago and vertical mixing uplifting deep nutrient‐rich waters toward the upper lit layer.

Effects of iron and light availability on phytoplankton photosynthetic properties in the Ross Sea

Waters of the Southern Ocean are characterized by high macronutrient concentrations but limited availability of trace metals and light, often making it difficult for phytoplankton to achieve maximum growth rates. One strategy employed by Southern Ocean phytoplankton in culture to cope with low light and low dissolved iron (DFe) is to enhance light absorption by increasing their antenna size rather than the number of reaction centers, thereby reducing their Fe demand. Here we provide physiological evidence that natural populations of Southern Ocean phytoplankton employ a similar photoacclimation strategy to cope with low ambient DFe concentrations. During a research cruise to the Ross Sea in 2013-2014, we conducted 4 bioassay experiments in which we manipulated light and DFe concentrations and measured changes in phytoplankton biomass, growth rate, photosynthetic parameters, fluorescence parameters, and pigment composition. Phytoplankton responded strongly to DFe additions, exhibiting significantly higher biomass, growth rates, and photosynthetic competency. At low light, the maximum photosynthetic rate (P*max) was significantly reduced and the photosynthetic efficiency (α*) was unchanged compared to the high light treatment, regardless of phytoplankton species composition or DFe concentration. Our data suggest that Southern Ocean phytoplankton have evolved an Fe-saving strategy whereby they photoacclimate to low light by increasing their photosynthetic unit size, rather than photosynthetic unit number, even when DFe is available. It appears this Fe-saving strategy is characteristic of both Phaeocystis antarctica and diatoms, suggesting that it is a common adaptation among phytoplankton taxa that grow under Fe limitation in the Southern Ocean.

Evaluation of benefits and risks associated with the agricultural use of organic wastes of pharmaceutical origin

Industrial fermentations for the production of pharmaceuticals generate large volumes of wastewater that can be biologically treated to recover plant nutrients through the application of pharmaceutical-derived wastes to the soil. Nevertheless, benefits and risks associated with their recovery are still unexplored. Thus, the aim of the present work was to characterize three potential organic residues (sludge, anaerobic digestate and compost) derived from the wastewater generated by the daptomycin production process. The main parameters evaluated were the physico-chemical properties, potential contaminants (heavy metals, pathogens and daptomycin residues), organic matter stabilization and the potential toxicity towards soil microorganisms and plants.The results showed that all the studied materials were characterized by high concentrations of plant macronutrients (N, P and K), making them suitable for agricultural reuse. Heavy metal contents and pathogens were under the limits established by European and Italian legislations, avoiding the risk of soil contamination. The compost showed the highest organic matter stabilization within the studied materials, whereas the sludge and the anaerobic digestate were characterized by large amounts of labile organic compounds. Although the pharmaceutical-derived fertilizers did not negatively affect the soil microorganisms, as demonstrated by the enzymatic activities, the sludge and the anaerobic digestate caused a moderate and strong phytotoxicity, respectively. The compost showed no toxic effect towards plant development and, moreover, it positively affected the germination and growth in lettuce and barley. The results obtained in the present study demonstrate that the valorization of pharmaceutical-derived materials through composting permits their agricultural reuse and also represents a suitable strategy to move towards a zero-waste production process for daptomycin.

Vochysia tucanorum Mart.: an aluminum-accumulating species evidencing calcifuge behavior

Acidic soil occupies 30% of the world’s ice-free land, and exchangeable aluminum (Al) availability increases under these conditions, being toxic to many plant species. However, some plants accumulate Al without damage to their metabolism. Vochysia tucanorum is an Al-accumulating species endemic to the cerrado vegetation with acidic soils in South America. Here, we predict that it is a calcifuge species. We assessed macro and micronutrient concentrations as well as Al accumulation, plant height and root length of potted plants grown on acidic and calcareous soil for 60 days. A LC-MS-based metabolite fingerprinting of plants on both conditions was also performed. Plants grown on acidic soil showed higher biomass and Al concentration in roots and shoots than those grown on calcareous soil. Despite the higher concentration of macronutrients on plants grown on calcareous soil, micronutrients concentration was similar between plants grown on these soils. Plants grown on the calcareous soil showed necrotic leaves. The metabolite fingerprinting indicated significant changes in the metabolism of phenolics and organic acids. Due to the high Al accumulation in plants grown on acidic soil, and their inability to survive in calcareous soil, we conclude that V. tucanorum is an Al-accumulating species with calcifuge behavior.

Vigorous Root Growth Is a Better Indicator of Early Nutrient Uptake than Root Hair Traits in Spring Wheat Grown under Low Fertility.

A number of root and root hair traits have been proposed as important for nutrient acquisition. However, there is still a need for knowledge on which traits are most important in determining macro- and micronutrient uptake at low soil fertility. This study investigated the variations in root growth vigor and root hair length (RHL) and density (RHD) among spring wheat genotypes and their relationship to nutrient concentrations and uptake during early growth. Six spring wheat genotypes were grown in a soil with low nutrient availability. The root and root hair traits as well as the concentration and content of macro- and micronutrients were identified. A significant genetic variability in root and root hair traits as well as nutrient uptake was found. Fast and early root proliferation and long and dense root hairs enhanced uptake of macro- and micronutrients under low soil nutrient availability. Vigorous root growth, however, was a better indicator of early nutrient acquisition than RHL and RHD. Vigorous root growth and long and dense root hairs ensured efficient acquisition of macro- and micronutrients during early growth and a high root length to shoot dry matter ratio favored high macronutrient concentrations in the shoots, which is assumed to be important for later plant development.

Granular biochar compared with activated carbon for wastewater treatment and resource recovery

Granular wood-derived biochar (BC) was compared to granular activated carbon (GAC) for the treatment and nutrient recovery of real wastewater in both batch and column studies. Batch adsorption studies showed that BC material had a greater adsorption capacity at the high initial concentrations of total chemical oxygen demand (COD-T) (1200 mg L−1), PO4 (18 mg L−1), and NH4 (50 mg L−1) compared to GAC. Conversely the BC material showed a lower adsorption capacity for all concentrations of dissolved chemical oxygen demand (COD-D) and the lower concentrations of PO4 (5 mg L−1) and NH4 (10 mg L−1). Packed bed column studies showed similar average COD-T removal rate for BC with 0.27 ± 0.01 kg m−3 d−1 and GAC with 0.24 ± 0.01 kg m−3 d−1, but BC had nearly twice the average removal rate (0.41 ± 0.08 kg m−3 d−3) compared to GAC during high COD-T concentrations (>500 mg L−1). Elemental analysis showed that both materials accumulated phosphorous during wastewater treatment (2.6 ± 0.4 g kg−1 and 1.9 ± 0.1 g kg−1 for BC and GAC respectively). They also contained high concentrations of other macronutrients (K, Ca, and Mg) and low concentrations of metals (As, Cd, Cr, Pb, Zn, and Cu). The good performance of BC is attributed to its macroporous structure compared with the microporous GAC. These favorable treatment data for high strength wastewater, coupled with additional life-cycle benefits, helps support the use of BC in packed bed column filters for enhanced wastewater treatment and nutrient recovery.

Évaluation Comparative De La Qualité Nutritionnelle Et Sanitaire Du Lait De Différentes Races De Vaches De Quelques Zones D’élevage Du Bénin

In this study, a comparative assessment of the nutritional quality and the safety of milk from cow breeds Girolando, Borgou, Borgou-Gir, and Lagunaire produced in Benin was carried out in the public breeding centers of Kpinnou, Bétécoucou, Okparaand in private farms in Adjohoun, respectively. Milk from the breed Borgou-Gir had the highest concentrations of macronutrients (protein and lactose) and minerals (magnesium: 197.556 ± 0.001 ppm, calcium: 2056.32 ± 0.000 ppm, and zinc: 5.522 ± 0.000 ppm). Analyzed milk samples were free of tuberculosis and brucellosis germs, and no mastitis prevalence was detected in milking cows. However, some milk samples had lead levels exceeding the maximum limit of 0.02 ppm prescribed by the Codex Alimentarius standard. In addition, milk from the breeds Borgou and Borgou-Gir contained pesticide residue levels, namely chlorpyrifos (0.12 ± 0.020 ppm) and cypermethrin (0.03 ± 0.020 ppm) higher than the Codex Alimentarius standard (0.01 ppm). Milk samples from Adjohoun and Kpinnou had an aflatoxin M1 level of 0.3 ± 0.000 ppb and 0,010 ppb ± 0.24, respectively and were not in agreement with the Codex Alimentarius standard (0, 05 ppb). Although rich in nutrients, analyzed cow’s milk may present health risks to consumers due to chemical contaminants.

Nutrients Drive Termite Nest Geophagy in Yellow-chevroned Parakeets (Brotogeris chiriri)

ABSTRACT We observed Yellow-chevroned Parakeets (Brotogeris chiriri) consuming soil from arboreal termite nests while excavating a nest cavity. As most observations of parrot geophagy come from clay licks, this observation prompted questions about the benefits of consuming termite nest soil rather than ground soil. We compared nutrient contents and chemical properties (organic matter, pH, cation exchange capacity, macro and micronutrients) from these two types of soil. Termite nest soil had higher concentrations of macronutrients and cation exchange capacity than ground soil, which may be related to mineral supplementation and binding of toxins present in fruits consumed by the Yellow-chevroned Parakeet.

Effect of foliar fertilization on soybean grain yield

The aim of this investigation was to estimate the effects of foliar fertilization on quantitative traits (plant height, first pod height, number of nodes per plant, number of pods per plant, number of grain per plant, grain yield per plant, 1000-grain weight and grain yield) in two soybean cultivars (Balkan and Becejka). Studied cultivars belong to different maturity groups (Balkan - I and Becejka - 0). Four treatments of fertilization were tested: control (no fertilization), Urea (46 kg N ha-1), Urea (46 kg N ha-1) + Wuxal super (5 l ha-1) and Urea (46 kg N ha-1) + Ferticare I (5 kg ha-1). Wuxal super and Ferticare I were foliar applied two times at the R2-R3 growth stage. The field experiments were carried out in dry land farming in the region of Vojvodina province at location Putinci (45? 00? N Lat., 19? 58? E Long.), during the years 2007 and 2008. In both research years, Balkan had higher values for all investigated traits than Becejka. Results showed that foliar fertilizers significantly increased the values for all quantitative traits. Ferticare I is more effective than Wuxal super in soybean because this fertilizer has higher concentration of macronutrients. Foliar fertilization of soybean reduced the negative impact of small amounts of rainfall during the summer months on grain yield.