Irrigation Conditions Research Articles

Innovative multi-trial breeding and genotype screening in triticale (x Triticosecale Wittmack) for enhanced stability under drought stress.

Triticale is a man-made crop produced by crossing wheat (Triticum aestivum) and rye (Secal cereal) with the aim of increasing the adaptability and potential production of its parental line (wheat) under environmental stresses and harsh conditions. Accordingly, the objectives of this study are as follow, a: compare different stability measurement methods regarding their suitability, b: identify most stable genotypes for cultivar release, and c: provide a freely available package in R programming language (named 'Stbidx') capable of exploiting all stability methods for similar studies. Accordingly, 30 triticale genotypes were evaluated for their stability and adaptability to changing environments during four consecutive years from 2016 to 2020 in different locations in Iran (one year in Zarghan, two years in Ghorveh, one year in Sanandaj) and under two different irrigation regimes (normal irrigation and water deficit stress conditions). All 30 triticale genotypes were cultivated in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications in each environment (12 environments: 6 trials in 2 conditions). Grain yield of triticale genotypes was measured and it applied to calculate all known stability indices (univariate methods) along with the meta-analysis models were evaluated in this study. Additionally, two novel techniques (Stability ID: SID and AMMI PC Value: APCV) were introduced and successfully tested for screening stable genotypes. These methods were introduced to improve and resolve the limitation of the previous stability methods. Meanwhile, heatmap analysis, as a proper data-mining technique, has been successfully applied for the first time to find stable genotypes in different environments in this study. The results clearly indicated a higher suitability of our introduced methods over previous multi-trials screening methods. Based on our methods and considering all environments, triticale genotypes ELTTCL21 (SID = 8.00; APCV = 28.12), ELTTCL25‌ (SID = 8.14; APCV = 30.02), ELTTCL30 (SID = 8.43; APCV = 17.00), ET-90-8 (SID = 14.00; APCV = 42.05), and Sanabad (SID = 10.57; APCV = 12.44) were among stable genotypes and they can be nominated as new cultivars. Additionally, for stress condition genotypes ELTTCL30 (stress: 380.6g/m2) and ELTTCL18 (stress: 360.79g/m2) and for normal condition genotypes ET-90-4 (normal: 849.4g/m2) and ELTTCL20 (normal:845g/m2) were respectively the most proper genotypes with the highest production to be considered for each condition separately.

Mitochondrial AOX1a and an H2O2 feed-forward signalling loop regulate flooding tolerance in rice.

Flooding is a widespread natural disaster that causes tremendous yield losses of global food production. Rice is the only cereal capable of growing in aquatic environments. Direct seeding by which seedlings grow underwater is an important cultivation method for reducing rice production cost. Hypoxic germination tolerance and root growth in waterlogged soil are key traits for rice adaptability to flooded environments. Alternative oxidase (AOX) is a non-ATP-producing terminal oxidase in the plant mitochondrial electron transport chain, but its role in hypoxia tolerance had been unclear. We have discovered that AOX1a is necessary and sufficient to promote germination/coleoptile elongation and root development in rice under flooding/hypoxia. Hypoxia enhances endogenous H2O2 accumulation, and H2O2 in turn activates an ensemble of regulatory genes including AOX1a to facilitate the conversion of deleterious reactive oxygen species to H2O2 in rice under hypoxia. We show that AOX1a and H2O2 act interdependently to coordinate three key downstream events, that is, glycolysis/fermentation for minimal ATP production, root aerenchyma development and lateral root emergence under hypoxia. Moreover, we reveal that ectopic AOX1a expression promotes vigorous root and plant growth, and increases grain yield under regular irrigation conditions. Our discoveries provide new insights into a unique sensor-second messenger pair in which AOX1a acts as the sensor perceiving low oxygen tension, while H2O2 accumulation serves as the second messenger triggering downstream root development in rice against hypoxia stress. This work also reveals AOX1a genetic manipulation and H2O2 pretreatment as potential targets for improving flooding tolerance in rice and other crops.

Evaluation of Rabi Maize-based Intercropping System for Augmenting the Productivity and Profitability of Rabi Maize under Irrigated Conditions of Bihar

Background: A combination of maize and legume, cabbage and potato in intercropping benefits the agricultural production system due to different peak period of growth and synergistic effects, which reflected into yield advantage. In order to reduce nutritional competition and the yield gaps between actual production and production potential for both crops in the intercropping system, more information is required for the optimization of maize-based intercropping systems. So, keeping above fact in mind, the present study was undertaken to find out the suitable rabi maize based intercropping system for augmenting productivity and profitability of maize. Methods: A field experiment was conducted on the farmer’s field of selected villages of KVK Bhagalpur (on-farm trials) during the winter (rabi) season of 2020-21 and 2021-22 on rabi maize to validate, refine and popularize the technology developed at Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur (Bihar) and ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR), Ludhiana, for enhancing the productivity and profitability of rabi maize. The experiment, comprising four treatments, viz., sole rabi maize (farmer’s practice), maize + potato (1:1 row ratio), maize + vegetable pea (1:2 row ratio) and maize + cabbage (1:1 row ratio), was arranged in a randomized block design (RBD) with five replications. All five farmers selected for experimentation were treated as replications. Result: Experimental results revealed that all three intercropping associations of maize + vegetable pea (1:2 row ratio), maize + potato (1:1 row ratio), maize + vegetable pea (1:2 row ratio) and maize + cabbage (1:1 row ratio) produced significantly higher maize equivalent yields than the sole crop of rabi maize. However, among the intercropping systems, maize + vegetable pea (1:2 row ratio) produced the highest maize equivalent yield (241.0 q/ha) and significantly incurred the highest net return (322093 ₹ /ha), as well as a higher B: C ratio (6.04) than the rest of the intercropping systems as well as sole crop of rabi maize.

Response of Long-Term Water and Phosphorus of Wheat to Soil Microorganisms

Phosphorus deficiency critically constrains crop growth. Soil microbial diversity, which is crucial for maintaining terrestrial ecosystem integrity, plays a key role in promoting soil P cycling. Therefore, it is imperative to understand the survival strategies of microorganisms under P-limited conditions and explore their roles in community regulation. We initiated a comprehensive, long-term, in situ wheat field experiment to measure soil physicochemical properties, focusing on the different forms of soil inorganic P. Subsequently, 16S rRNA and ITS marker sequencing was employed to study changes in soil microbial abundance and community structure and predict functional alterations. The results showed that soil water and P deficiencies significantly affected wheat growth and development, soil physicochemical properties, and microbial diversity and function. Prolonged P deficiency lowered soil pH, significantly increasing phosphatase content (58%) under W1 (normal irrigation) conditions. Divalent calcium phosphate decreased significantly under W0 (lack of irrigation) and W1 conditions, and the most stable ten-valent calcium phosphate began to transform under W0 conditions. Soil microbial diversity increased (e.g., Proteobacteria and Vicinamibacterales) and enhanced the transport capacity of bacteria. P deficiency affected the coexistence networks between bacteria and fungi, and SEM (structural equation modeling) analysis revealed a stronger correlation in bacteria (r2 = 0.234) than in fungi (r2 = 0.172). In soils deprived of P for 7 years, the soil P content and forms were coupled with microbial changes. Microorganisms exhibited community and functional changes in response to low-phosphorus soil, concurrently influencing soil P status. This study enhances our understanding of rhizospheric processes in soil P cycling under microbial feedback, particularly the impact of microbial interactions on changes in soil P forms under P-limited conditions.

Molecular Mechanisms of Poplar Adaptation to Water–Fertilizer Coupling: Insights from Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses

The aim of this paper was to investigate the transcriptomic and metabolomic differences in Populus cathayana × canadasis ‘Xinlin1’ (P. cathayana × canadasis ‘Xinlin 1’) under varying irrigation and fertilization conditions. Ten-year-old P. cathayana × canadasis ‘Xinlin 1’ was selected as the test subject in this study; different irrigation and fertilization treatments were set up, and DEGs and DAMs in response to water and fertilizer regulation were identified. Transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles were analyzed from both leaves and roots. A total of 22,870 DEGs were identified in response to water and fertilizer treatments, predominantly belonging to 48 transcription factor families, including MYB, ERF, and MYB-related ones. Additionally, 2432 DAMs were detected and categorized into 18 metabolite classes, with flavonoids being the most abundant (342 metabolites), followed by terpenoids, lipids, and others. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that DEGs and DAMs were significantly associated with pathways such as plant hormone signal transduction and starch and sucrose metabolism pathways. The levels of ABA exhibited an initial decrease followed by an increase, with several key genes, including PYR/PYL, PP2C, SnRK2, and ABF, also differentially expressed in the plant hormone signal transduction pathway. In the starch and sucrose metabolic pathways, sucrose was more hydrolyzed into D-fructose, which gradually translocated from roots to leaves. DEGs were significantly involved in sucrose synthesis and decomposition into D-fructose and 1,3-β-glucose, as well as starch synthesis and starch decomposition into cellulose dextrin, which underwent complete hydrolysis to glucose. In the starch hydrolysis process, 29 DEGs were involved, with 12 down-regulated and 17 up-regulated.

Comprehensive evaluation of fertilizer treatments on biometric traits and marketable tuber weight across diverse potato varieties

IntroductionThe efficiency of potato production depends to a large extent on the production of quality seeds that meet the requirements of the growing region. The main component of this production includes breeding, which creates the genetic basis of seeds. The process of establishing patterns between the amount of fertilizer application (“Aquarin 12,” “Bona Forte,” “Osmocote Exact High K”), their type, and biometric characteristics of potato plants of the studied varieties “Guliver,” “Beauty of Meshchera,” and “Grand” was explored.MethodsDuring the experimental studies, the methods of variation statistics, the technique of field experiment with the corresponding transformations to achieve normal distribution, and subsequent dispersion analysis were used.ResultsThe results of the research on the evaluation of potato structural elements depending on the plant nutrition system of the studied varieties testify to the expediency of using nutrient solutions in potato cultivation irrespective of their type. In addition, it has been established that increasing the concentration of the nutrient base solution from 75 to 125% of the nutrient formula improves the quality indicators of minitubers, namely the content of starch, sugars, dry matter, crude protein, phosphorus, specific gravity, and ash content, which can contribute to obtaining high-quality potatoes.DiscussionThus, the use of morphological and physiological tools in closed ecosystems is informative for predicting key agricultural characteristics of potato plants. Additionally, integrating organic amendments and biofertilizers, as supported by other studies, could further enhance nutrient uptake and plant health, especially under conditions of low irrigation.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Insecticide on the Management of Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci, Lindemann) in Northwestern Zone of Tigray

Ethiopia has enormous potential to produce the onions throughout the year both for domestic use and export market. It is also the most cultivated and high market value of vegetable crops in Tigray Northern Ethiopia. However, the productivity of onion is highly constrained such as insect pests, diseases, lack of improved verities, lack of improved management practices etc. The major insect pest of onion is Onion thrips and important pests especially in areas where onions are grown under irrigation. The purpose of this study was to test the insecticide chemicals application and application frequency on the Onion production technologies. Therefore, field experiment was conducted to evaluate the insecticide chemical applications with frequency application in 2017 and 2018 under irrigation conditions. Thirteen treatments were used three different insecticide types namely Karatae 5% EC, Dimethote 40%EC, Profit72%EC with four different spraying frequency and untreated (control) laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The current findings showed that the profitable yield was obtained Karatae 5% EC (1st spray) (14.25 t ha-1) followed by Profit72%EC (4th spray) that is (20.25 t ha-1) and the obtained profit was 128053 &181788 birr per ha with the maximum Marginal Rate of Return of 3025 & 2417% respectively in Tselemti woreda. In Medebaayzana woreda also, the profitable yield was obtained Karatae 5% EC (1st spray) (25.79 t ha-1) followed by Karatae 5% EC (4st spray) at (27.75 t ha-1) & Dimethote 40% EC (3rd spray) at (25.78 t ha-1) and 231976, 249463 & 231544 birr per ha obtained profit with the maximum Marginal Rate of Return of 2634, 2395 & 2311 % respectively. Therefore, Karatae 5% EC (1st spray) in Tselemti & Medebayzana woreda & Profit72%EC (4th spray) in Tselemti woreda and Dimethote 40% EC (3rd spray) in Medebayzana woreda was profitable preventive Onion Thrips for Onion production in the studies area.

Water Use Efficiency Characteristics and Their Contributions to Yield in Diverse Sugarcane Genotypes with Varying Drought Resistance Levels Under Different Field Irrigation Conditions

Drought is the major abiotic constraint affecting sugarcane productivity and quality worldwide. This obstacle may be alleviated through sugarcane genotypes demonstrating good water use efficiency (WUE) performance. This study aims to investigate the WUE characteristics of various sugarcane genotypes under different soil water availability levels. Plant and ratoon field experiments were conducted using a split-plot randomized complete block design with three replications. The main plots were assigned three types of irrigation: (1) rainfed conditions (RF), (2) field capacity conditions (FC), and (3) half-available water (½ AW). The subplots consisted of six sugarcane genotypes with varying levels of drought resistance, i.e., KK3, UT13, Kps01-12, KKU99-03, KKU99-02, and UT12. Data on yield, stalk numbers, stalk diameter, height, and WUE were collected throughout the crop cycle for both plant and ratoon crops. For the plant crop, the net photosynthesis rate, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, and leaf area index (LAI) were recorded during the crop period. In both plant and ratoon crops, the WUE in the RF treatment was lower than in the FC and ½ AW treatments during the drought stress period 4 months after planting (MAP). In the recovery phase, the WUE in the ½ AW treatment fell between the FC and RF treatments. The RF treatment exhibited the lowest WUE compared to the other two water regime treatments at the maturity stage. The drought-resistant genotypes KK3 and UT13 maintained high WUE values throughout both the drought and recovery periods and exhibited outstanding LAIs at 4 and 6 MAP. A significant relationship existed between WUE and LAI during these periods. Moreover, WUE was positively correlated with cane yields and yield components, such as stalk weight, shoot diameter, and height, during recovery and tiller number and height during ripening. Therefore, WUE and LAI are efficient parameters for supporting and maintaining growth and yield during water deficit and recovery phases under rainfed conditions.

Saline Water Irrigation Changed the Stability of Soil Aggregates and Crop Yields in a Winter Wheat–Summer Maize Rotation System

Irrigation using saline water is extensively used in areas of agricultural production where freshwater is scarce. However, saline water irrigation adversely impacts soil’s physicochemical characteristics and crop productivity. In this study, we established irrigation water with five salinity levels (ECiw, 1.3, 3.4, 7.1, 10.6, 14.1 dS·m−1) to investigate how these salinity levels influenced grain yields as well as soil salinity, alkalinity, sodicity, and aggregate stability in the 0~20 cm soil layer of a wheat and maize rotation field (in 2022–2023). Tukey’s test, entropy-weighted TOPSIS, and the least squares method were used to analyze the significance analysis, comprehensively evaluate the soil aggregate stability and soil index comprehensive score (SICS), and achieve linear fitting, respectively. The results showed that when ECiw > 3.4 dS·m−1, there was a significant increase in the soil salinity, pH, and sodium adsorption ratio. When ECiw > 7.1 dS·m−1, a significant reduction in soil aggregate stability was observed. When ECiw ≤ 3.4 dS·m−1, there was no significant reduction in the grain yields of wheat and maize. Furthermore, the annual grain yields of wheat and maize decreased by 5% and 10%, respectively, resulting in a change in ECiw values from 2.98 to 4.24 dS·m−1, based on the linear regression analysis of SICS and ECiw, as well as the annual grain yields and SICS. Under uniform irrigation conditions, the soil salinity, alkalinity, and sodicity were lower, and soil aggregate indexes were more stable at the maturity stage of maize.

Analysis of Physicochemical Properties, Enzyme Activity, Microbial Diversity in Rhizosphere Soil of Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) Under Organic and Chemical Fertilizers, Irrigation Conditions

The application of chemical fertilizers and organic fertilizers, as well as irrigation, is an important agricultural practice that can increase crop yields and affect soil biogeochemical cycles. This study conducted coconut field experiments to investigate the effects of conventional fertilization (NCF), optimized fertilization (MCF), conventional fertilization + organic fertilizer (NOF), optimized fertilization + organic fertilizer (MOF), conventional fertilization + organic fertilizer + irrigation (NOFW), and optimized fertilization + organic fertilizer + irrigation (MOFW) treatments on soil physicochemical properties, soil enzyme activity, bacterial and fungal community structure and diversity, and compared the controls (CK, non-fertilizer and non-irrigation). The results showed that MOFW significantly increased soil electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter (OM), alkaline nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), available calcium (ACa), and available magnesium (AMg) levels. At the same time, it also significantly enhanced the activities of soil catalase (CE), polyphenol oxidase (POE), sucrase (SE), urease (UE), acid protease (APE), and acid phosphatase (APPE) (p < 0.05). The PCA analysis of soil microorganisms in the coconut rhizosphere soil showed indicated significant changes in bacteria and fungi community structure under fertilization treatments. The fertilization application leaded to an increase in the relative abundance and diversity of bacteria, but a decrease in fungi. Acidobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacterota were the dominant bacterial phyla, and Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Rozellomycota, and Mortierellomycota were the significant fungal phyla. Compared with CK, MOFW significantly increased the abundance of Acidobacteriota, Proteobacteria, Basidiomycota, and Mortierellomycota. Redundancy analysis (CCA) and Mantel test further revealed that pH, EC, OM, and AP were the main soil fertility factors driving changes in microbial communities. CE, SE, UE, APE, APPE were significantly correlated with microbial communities. Compared with NOFW, MOFW has a lower proportion of N, P, and K fertilizers in its fertilizer composition. The results indicated that MOFW can better improve the nutrient and enzyme status of the soil, which is a promising method for maintaining the balance of soil microorganisms in coconut orchards, and accordingly, reducing chemical fertilizers within a certain range can not only ensure consistency with conventional fertilizers, but also effectively improve soil conditions.

Effects of combined application of Se and ammonium fertilizers on the growth and nutritional quality of maize in Hg-polluted soil under two irrigation conditions and its health risk assessment

The interactive effects of Se (Na2SeO3) and ammonium fertilizers ((NH4)2SO4 and NH4Cl) on the growth and quality of maize (Zea mays L.) in mercury (Hg)-contaminated soil were studied under different water conditions. This study determined how two nutrient sources (Se and NH4+-N) interacted to improve the yield, quality, and safety of maize to ensure food security and quality assurance under the stress of heavy metal Hg. The experiment was conducted under two irrigation conditions: W1 (complete irrigation condition, 60-70% of water-holding capacity) and W2 (restricted irrigation condition, 40-50% of water-holding capacity). The combined treatment of Se and ammonium fertilizers significantly improved the growth of maize and the quality of grain in Hg-polluted soil. When Na2SeO3 and (NH4)2SO4 were combined, the growth and quality of maize increased the highest among all treatments. The interaction between Na2SeO3 and ammonium fertilizers significantly affected the available Hg/methylmercury (MeHg) content in soil and the Hg/MeHg concentration in maize. NH4Cl significantly increased the content of available Hg/MeHg in soil and increased the accumulation of Hg/MeHg in maize tissues due to Cl-. However, the treatments containing Na2SeO3 or (NH4)2SO4 significantly reduced the content of available Hg/MeHg in soil, reduced the accumulation of Hg/MeHg in maize tissues, and significantly reduced the possible health risks to human beings. The treatments containing Na2SeO3 or (NH4)2SO4 promoted maize growth by increasing the Se content in maize tissues and reducing the Hg/MeHg content, relieving the stress induced by Hg, and increasing the nutrient content. The combined treatment of Na2SeO3 and (NH4)2SO4 had the best effect in this experiment. This study also showed that this strategy is helpful in reducing the opportunities for consumers to accumulate Hg/MeHg by eating maize and its derivatives, thus ensuring food safety. Se and ammonium fertilizer can be used together to increase maize yield and develop agricultural production in Hg-polluted areas, which may have a significant impact on global food production. In addition, this simple method can help farmers manage soil affected by heavy metal pollution.

Application of univariate, multivariate, and mixed models to the stability analysis of Ethiopian tetraploid wheat cultivars under irrigation condition

AbstractThe testing of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum subsp. durum) varieties in different irrigated environments is critical for determining the stability of their performance and adaptation. In this study, 12 popular and newly developed durum wheat varieties were examined in eight irrigated locations with the purpose of investigating genotype–environment interaction and their effect on Ethiopian tetraploid wheat yield stability across diverse environments. The field experiment has two replications with a randomized complete block design. Multivariate (analysis of variance, additive main effect and multiplicative interaction [AMMI], and genetics, genetics × environment [GGE] biplot) and univariate (bi [regression coefficient], S2d [deviation from regression], σi2 [Shukla's stability variance], Wi2 [Wricke's ecovalence], YSi [yield stability statistic], and CVi [coefficient of variance]) analysis methods were used to identify stable varieties. The AMMI analysis showed that the genetic × environmental interaction was highly significant (p > 0.01), while the genotype and environment variation were not significant. The first two principal component axes (IPCA1 and IPCA2) were highly significant (p > 0.01) and contributed 79% of the total GE interaction. Univariate statistical models indicate that Bulala is a stable, high‐yielding variety that can adapt to various environments. GGE biplot analysis revealed that the eight test environments were clustered into three mega‐environments, ranked Bulala as the most stable variety across diverse environments. The results of the combined mean analysis, multivariate and univariate models revealed that Bulala is a high yielder (3.46 tons ha−1) and stable variety across all test environments, while Mukiye variety has a high yield (3.43 tons ha−1) but is not as stable or adaptive to multiple locations. As a result, Bulala was recommended for further demonstration and popularization in test locations and places with similar agroecologies under irrigation.

Improving maize yield and drought tolerance in field conditions through activated biochar application

Amidst depleting water resources, rising crop water needs, changing climates, and soil fertility decline from inorganic modifications of soil, the need for sustainable agricultural solutions has been more pressing. The experimental work aimed to inspect the potential of organically activated biochar in improving soil physicochemical and nutrient status as well as improving biochemical and physiological processes, and optimizing yield-related attributes under optimal and deficit irrigation conditions. Biochar enhances soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability, while improving plant nutrient uptake and drought resilience. The field experiment with maize crop was conducted in Hardaas Pur (32°38.37’N, 74°9.00’E), Gujrat, Pakistan. The experiment involved the use of DK-9108, DK-6321, and Sarhaab maize hybrid seeds, with five moisture levels of evapotranspiration (100% ETC, 80% ETC, 70% ETC, 60% ETC, and 50% ETC) maintained throughout the crop seasons. Furthermore, activated biochar was applied at three levels: 0 tons/ha (no biochar), 5 tons per hectare, and 10 tons per hectare. The study’s findings revealed significant improvements in soil organic matter, bulk density, nutrient profile and total porosity with biochar supplementation in soil. Maize plants grown under lower levels of ETC in biochar supplemented soil had enhanced membrane stability index (1.6 times higher) increased protein content (1.4 times higher), reduced malondialdehyde levels (0.7 times lower), improved antioxidant enzyme activity (1.3 times more SOD and POD activity, and 1.2 times more CAT activity), improved relative growth (1.05 times more) and enhanced yield parameters (26% more grain and stover yield, 16% more 1000-seed weight, 29% more total seed weight, 33% more apparent water productivity) than control. Additionally, among the two biochar application levels tested, the 5 tons/ha dose demonstrated superior efficiency compared to the 10 tons/ha biochar dose.

Improving Yield and Quality of ‘Balady’ Mandarin Trees by Using Shading Techniques and Reflective Materials in Response to Climate Change Under Flood Irrigation Conditions

Considering climate change predictions, it is logical to anticipate detrimental effects on the mandarin tree, an essential citrus crop. Therefore, scientists should promptly focus on developing methods to enhance its resistance to climatic stress effects such as sunscald. This study assesses the strategies employed in ‘Balady’ mandarin trees when covered by shading nets of varying colors and percentages (white 50%, green 50% or 63%, black 50% or 63%), as well as the application of reflective materials (kaolin at 4% and CaCO3 at 3%) on the micro-climate of orchards, leaf, and fruit surface temperatures, fruit sunburn%, productivity, and fruit quality. The results indicated that shade nets effectively reduced temperature and enhanced humidity, especially during the period from June to September, when compared to open-field treatments. Black shade nets, particularly those with a shading level of 63%, demonstrated the most notable decrease in canopy temperature and an elevation in humidity, surpassing the performance of green and white shade nets. The present study found that shade nets and reflecting materials like kaolin and calcium carbonate significantly reduced fruit sunburn. Trees without shade had a sunburn rate of 8.74%, while those with shade treatments suffered no sunburn. Kaolin foliar spray at a concentration of 4% and calcium carbonate at a concentration of 3% reduced sunburn incidence to 3.64% and 7.32%, respectively. These treatments also reduced the intensity of sunburn. All treatments increased fruit yield % compared to the control and yield efficiency (kg/m2), especially the trees covered with white shade net of a 50% shading rate provided the highest values (43.70 and 40.17%) and (5.24 and 5.47 kg/m2) compared to other treatments in both seasons, respectively. Trees covered with a white shade net of a 50% shading rate, followed by a green shade net of 50% and a 63% shading rate, as well as a black shade net of 50% and a 63% shading rate, tended to improve the physical and chemical fruit properties. Therefore, it could be recommended that trees be covered with a white shade net of a 50% shading rate or a green shade net of a 50 and 63% shading rate in summer months due to its beneficial impact on mitigating fruit sunburn damage and enhancing the productivity and quality of ‘‘Balady’’ mandarin trees. Hence, shade nets can be a beneficial technology to protect citrus fruits from sunburn without affecting fruit quality in commercial citrus farms.

Studying the Transmission of Height Traits in Second Generation Reciprocal Wheat Hybrids

The presented article presents the results of a study of height inheritance in reciprocal hybrid combinations of the second generation (F2) of common wheat. The research was carried out in the 2020–2021 growing season at the experimental site of the experimental base at the Scientific Research Institute of Agriculture of Azerbaijan under irrigation conditions. In the year of research, the heights of 9 local varieties (Azeri, Gobustan, Fatima, Gyrmyzy gul-1, Murov-2, Askeran, Matin, Onur and Mirbashir-128) of soft wheat were studied, which were used as the parent form and 32 reciprocal combinations of the second generation. The degree and frequency of transgression was determined. During the growing season, agrotechnical work was carried out in accordance with the accepted methodology. In terms of height, the studied samples belonged to semi-dwarf (51.0-80.0 cm) and medium-sized (81.0-110.0 cm) varieties and combinations. Plant height in parental forms ranged from 70.0-97.0 cm. In hybrid combinations, plant height ranged from 60.0-95.0 cm. 71.9% of combinations (23 pcs.) were semi-dwarf and 28.1% combinations (9 pcs.) an average increase was observed. Transgressive variability in plant height was calculated using the method of G. S. Voskresensky and V. I. Spot. According to the results of the study, negative transgression was observed in hybrid combinations of the second generation (F2), which were characterized by low dominance and heterosis in the first generation (F1). As a result of the study, it can be concluded that short-growing hybrids can be obtained by involving varieties of the same height in hybridization, and taller forms can be obtained by using short-growing varieties in hybridization. The reciprocal hybrids Askeran × Gobustan and Askeran × Murov-2 showed a negative level of transgression when using the Askeran variety as the maternal form.

Influence of Storage Conditions on Four Chipping Potato Cultivars Developed in North Dakota

Cold temperature storage (lower than 10 °C) has been used as a management strategy to extend marketability and reduce potato storage losses. However, cold temperatures may result in dark-colored chips through a process known as cold-induced sweetening (CIS). ‘Dakota Crisp’ and ‘Dakota Diamond’ are two North Dakota State University potato breeding program cultivar releases selected for cold-chipping ability with high tuber yield potential. Two-year storage trials were conducted to examine sugar development and tuber processing quality of four cultivars grown at three nitrogen rates under irrigated and non-irrigated field conditions. The two-way interaction between storage period and storage temperature was significant for sucrose content, glucose content, visual chip color, and Agtron values, indicating a difference in sugar development for each storage temperature profile. Among the four cultivars evaluated under both irrigated and non-irrigated production conditions, ‘Dakota Pearl’ accumulated significantly less sucrose and glucose compared to other cultivars under the same storage conditions. ‘Dakota Crisp’ produced acceptable chip color from 8.9 °C after long term storage, while ‘Dakota Diamond’ produced acceptable chip color from 8.9 °C for up to 6 months of storage. These results emphasize the importance of developing cultivar-specific management profiles including storage and the informational need for producers and processors in determining the best practices for individual cultivars.

Screening of drought tolerance indices for selection of resistance wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) landraces under drought stress conditions

Abstract During the cropping season 2016-2017, an experiment was conducted in a split plot design to study the response of 25 wheat genotypes to drought stress under irrigated and minimal irrigation conditions. Different drought tolerance indices for 25 bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes were evaluated. The calculation drought tolerance indices was based on the grain yield of wheat under irrigated and water stress conditions. The result indicated a significant effect of drought stress on the yield of different wheat genotypes based on mean values of different drought tolerance indices. Among the studied different indices, mean productivity (MP), stress tolerance index (STI), and geometric mean productivity (GMP) were more efficient to discriminate between drought sensitive and drought tolerant genotypes based on the calculation of correlation coefficient and multivariate analysis. Twenty-five genotypes were classified into tolerant and susceptible groups through drought tolerance indices using cluster analysis. Among the genotypes, C-306, WH 1236, WH 1235, and GW 477 having higher yields under drought conditions which showing their stability under stress conditions. The most yield stable genotypes under adverse environment were identified by multivariate analysis of drought tolerance indices individually or in combination. From the result, we concluded that GMP, MP and STI are more efficient drought tolerance indices among other indices to identify stable genotypes under stress conditions.

The role of the application of nanosilver and humic acid on the physiological and yield traits of corn (Zea Mays L.) under deficit irrigation conditions

Water deficit is the most common abiotic stress and at least 75% of corn fields in Iran are exposed to drought stress during different stages of growth. humic acid (HA) and nanosilver (NS) can help mitigate abiotic stresses in plants; especially drought stress. A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of humic acid and nanosilver on the physiological traits and yield of corn during two crop years. Experimental treatments were including deficit irrigation (100%, 80%, 60% of crop water requirement (CWR)) and nanosilver (0 (NS0), 60 (NS60), 80 (NS80) and 100 (NS100) microliters/liter/ha) and humic acid (control (HA0), 500 (HA500) and 1000 (HA1000) g/ha). The highest amount of chlorophyll a, b and total in 100% CWR+NS60+HA1000 was obtained. The highest amount of proline in 60% CWR + NS60 +HA1000 as well as treatment NS0 +HA1000 were observed. In all irrigation levels, the application of NS100 has reduced chlorophyll a and total. The yield components were affected by HA and nanosilver foliar spraying. The highest grain yield was observed in 100% CWR with the application of NS60 +HA500 at the rate of 10,582 kg/ha. In conditions of 100% CWR, nanosilver concentrations had a positive effect on plant growth and yield, and with increasing stress, high concentrations of nanosilver had a negative effect on growth and yield, but with the combined application of nanosilver and HA, the effect of drought stress decreased, which indicates the positive effect of HA in improving plant growth and yield.

Genetic Variability and Character Association in F3 Generation of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Rainfed and Irrigated Conditions

The goal of the current study was to analyze the genetic variability and character association in F3 generations of chickpea under rainfed and irrigated conditions to finalize appropriate selection criteria for improvement of seed yield in chickpea under irrigated and rainfed conditions. Five F3 generations of chickpea crosses were evaluated in compact family block design with three replications at Research Farm, ARSS, Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, India. In analysis of variance, mean sum of squares indicated significant differences among the generations for all the characters under both conditions. The highest range of variation was observed for seed yield per plant followed by fruiting branches per plant, pods per plant, 100 seed weight and seeds per pod in irrigated condition, whereas in rainfed condition the highest range of variation was registered by seed yield per plant followed by biological yield per plant, 100 seed weight and pods per plant. The RSG-895 x RSG-888 showed high GCV and PCV for fruiting branches per plant, pods per plant, biological yield per plant, and seed yield per plant in both conditions, as well as for seeds per pod under irrigated condition. Under irrigated condition high value of GCV and PCV were noted in IPC-94-94 x RSG-888 for harvest and in CSJD-901 x RSG-931 for pods per plant, seeds per pod and seed yield per plant. Under rainfed high GCV and PCV were observed in cross RSG-888 x ICC-4958 for seeds per pod. This indicates the existence of wide variability for these traits in the progenies of particular crosses and scope of improvement through simple selection. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean (GAM) was noted in RSG-888 x ICC-4958 for pod per plant under both conditions. Under irrigated condition, the cross CSJD-901 x RSG-931 for pods per plant, RSG-895 x RSG-888 for seed yield per plant, RSG-888 x ICC-4958 for harvest index, RSG-888 x ICC-4958 and CSJD-901 x RSG-931 for 100-seed weight showed high heritability along with high GAM. Whereas under rainfed, the crosses RSG-895 x RSG-888 and IPC-94-94 x RSG-888 for pods per plant, BG-362 x RSG-931 for seed yield per plant, and IPC-94-94 x RSG-888 for harvest index, demonstrated high heritability along with high GAM. This result indicates the importance of additive gene action in inheritance of these characters, hence simple selection can be used to improve seed yield. Seed yield per plant exhibited positive and significant correlation with fruiting branches per plant, pods per plant, biological yield per plant, harvest index and 100-seed weight under both irrigated and rainfed conditions. In irrigated condition seed yield per plant had significant and positive correlation with days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and plant height, whereas in rainfed condition it had significant and positive association with protein content. Further, inter se these characters were also significantly positively correlated. So, selection based on these characters is expected to bring improvement in the seed yield.

YIELD AND QUALITY RESPONSES OF SOYBEAN (Glycine max. L. Merr.) VARIETIES INOCULATED WITH RHIZOBIA STRAINS UNDER DROUGHT STRESS

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of nodule formation and nodulation performance of Rhizobia bacteria on yield and quality in soybean roots under limited water application conditions in soybean varieties depending on climate change. In this study, 4 different irrigation applications (limited vs irrigated: 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%), 2 soybean varieties (Cinsoy and Altınay) and 3 different Rhizobia inoculants (Control, AZOTEK-2, USDA-110) were applied for two years (2020-2021) in order to determine the yield and quality characteristics of soybean. The experiment was established according to randomized complete block split-split plots experimental design with 3 replications. In the experiment, the main factor was Rhizobia inoculant treatments, the first sub-factor was soybean varieties, and the second sub-factor was irrigation applications. Within the scope of the study, yield and quality parameters such as plant height (cm), first pod height (cm), number of pods plant-1, number of seeds pod-1, seed yield (kg ha-1), 1000 seed weight (g), leaf area (cm2 plant-1), seed crude protein (%) and oil content (%) were examined. It was concluded that irrigation and inoculant applications and combinations of these factors had significant effects on yield parameters of soybean varieties. The study revealed that there was no discernible nodulation development observed in soybean roots under both irrigated and limited irrigation conditions. It was determined that under conditions of limited irrigation combined with high temperature conditions, the growth of the soybean was significantly impacted, resulting in a notable reduction in yield and leaf area but this was not observed in the quality characteristics.