Amount Of Fruit Research Articles

Biostimulant-Based Molecular Priming Improves Crop Quality and Enhances Yield of Raspberry and Strawberry Fruits.

The biostimulant SuperFifty, produced from the brown algae Ascophyllum nodosum, can improve crop quality and yield and mitigate stress tolerance in model and crop plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana, pepper, and tomato. However, the effect of SuperFifty on raspberries and strawberries has not been well studied, especially in terms of nutritional properties and yield. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of SuperFifty on the quality and quantity of raspberry and strawberry fruits, with a focus on metabolic composition and essential elements, which together determine the nutritional properties and total yield of these two crops. Metabolome analysis was performed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis (LC-MS), and essential elements analysis was performed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Here, we demonstrate that SuperFifty increases the fruit size of both raspberries and strawberries and enhances the yield in these two berry crops by 42.1% (raspberry) and 33.9% (strawberry) while preserving the nutritional properties of the fruits. Metabolome analysis of 100 metabolites revealed that antioxidants, essential amino acids, organic acids, sugars, and vitamins, such as glutathione, alanine, asparagine, histidine, threonine, serine, tryptophan, sucrose, citric acid, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), as well as other primary metabolites, remain the same in the SuperFifty-primed fruits. Secondary metabolites, such as caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, kaempferol, and quercetin, also maintained their levels in the SuperFifty-primed fruits. Analysis of essential elements demonstrated that elements important for human health, such as Zn, Mn, Fe, B, Cu, K, and Ca, maintain the same levels in the raspberry and strawberry fruits obtained from the biostimulant-primed plants. Magnesium, an important element known as a co-factor in many enzymatic reactions related to both plant physiology and human health, increased in both raspberry and strawberry fruits primed with SuperFifty. Finally, we discuss the potential financial and health benefits of the SuperFifty-induced priming for both growers and consumers. We demonstrate that SuperFifty significantly enhances the yield of both raspberries and strawberries, improves the marketable grade of the fruits (larger and heavier fruits), and enhances the nutritional properties by elevating Mg content in the fruits. Altogether, this biostimulant-induced molecular priming offers an environmentally friendly, efficient, and sustainable way to enhance the yield and quality of berry crops, with clear benefits to both berry producers and customers.

Examination of the Effectiveness of Fruit Thinning in the Case of Idaho and Gala Must Early Apple Varieties

Abstract Apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) is the most important fruit in the EU. The total yield is more than 11 million tons.year-1, 15% of which is that of the early apple varieties. Several papers have already been published on the efficacy of crown and fruit thinning in the 20th century. Nowadays, hybrid varieties and intensive crown types are used in modernized systems. Our research was carried out in a Hungarian orchard during two cultivation periods. We studied two early apple varieties (Idaho, Gala Must) to determine how fruit thinning affected the quantity and quality of fruits. We found that the effectiveness of non-thinned technology is similar or slightly better compared to fruit thinning, after the second harvest. The average yield of Idaho apples per tree per harvest was 35.9 vs. 24.8 kg, while that of Gala Must was 50.8 vs. 59.2 kg (with thinning vs. without thinning). To assess quality, we measured water-soluble sugars, NO3 -, NO2 and vitamin C content. Immediately, after the harvest, a surprisingly high vitamin C content was found in the fruits (4.4 mg.100 g-1 on average), which, however, decomposed after 3 months of storage. We also determined the pathway of the decomposition of vitamin C.

Effects of salt stress on the fruit and yield quality of some selected tomato (<i>Lycopersicum esculentum</i> L.) varieties.

The growth, production, and nutritional characteristics of crops are impacted by abiotic factors such as salinity stress. The study aimed to assess the impact of salt stress on the fruit and yield characteristics of three distinct tomato cultivars, namely Rio, Dan syria, and UTC. Salt solutions with varying concentrations of NaCl were created by dissolving NaCl in deionized water. Four treatments were established, consisting of solutions with salt concentrations of 0g/L (control, without salt), 0.5g/L, 1.0g/L, and 1.5g/L. Each treatment was reproduced three times. The NaCl solutions were administered with a frequency of 7 days. The data in the study underwent Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Rio outperformed the other varieties in terms of fruit quantity, fresh fruit weight, and fruit pericarp thickness under high salt stress, closely followed by UTC variety. The study also found that Dan syria performed better than the other varieties in terms of fresh and dry weight of shoot, as well as fresh weight of root, under mild and extreme salinity stress. However, Rio performed better than the other varieties in terms of dry weight of root under both mild and extreme salinity stress. The salt tolerance index of the Rio, UTC, and Dan Syria varieties under extreme salinity stress are 46.79%, 20.64%, and 34.70% respectively. This indicated that the Rio variety is the most salt-tolerant of the three types, with Dan Syria variety coming close.

The Longitudinal Evidence on Social Ties and Fruit and Vegetable Intake among Aging Adults: A Systematic Review.

Social ties are associated with the mortality and morbidity of aging populations; however, the role of social ties in healthy eating practices or gender differences in this link is less understood. The objective of this study was to examine the longitudinal evidence for the impact of changes in social ties on fruit and vegetable (FV) intakes among aging adults, with attention to gender differences. Medline, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and ProQuest databases were searched until December 2022. Longitudinal studies evaluating changes in living arrangement, marital status, social network, or social participation and changes in FV intake among middle- and older-age adults were included. Data from the included studies were extracted using a standardized template and analyzed using a narrative approach. A total of 4956 titles were eligible after deduplication, and 75 full texts were screened. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria, and all examined marital transitions only. Five marital transitions were assessed: staying married, becoming widowed, becoming divorced, remaining unmarried, and becoming married. Both the quantity and variety of fruit and/or vegetables eaten were studied. Three of the included studies had only male or only female populations. The studies found that marital dissolution (divorce or widowhood), and remaining unmarried, were associated with reduced FV intakes in older women or men, compared with staying married. The associations were stronger in men than in women. Two studies showed that becoming married was associated with increased vegetable intakes, but 3 reported null results. The included studies were of medium quality. There is a paucity of longitudinal research on whether changes in social ties are associated with changes in FV intakes among aging adults. This review showed that specific marital transitions may influence healthy eating habits, especially in older men. No evidence exists on whether changes in other social ties might alter healthy eating. PROSPERO registration No. CRD42022365795.

Long-term effects of silver nanoparticles and mineral nutrition components on the photosynthetic processes, chloroplast ultrastructure and productivity of Solanum lycopersicum plants

The effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), both alone and in combination with mineral nutrients, on the growth and photosynthesis of Solanum lycopersicum plants during ontogeny were studied. The experiment involved weekly applications of 10 μmol of AgNPs for 15 weeks in a greenhouse over a summer period. A comprehensive characterization of the AgNPs was performed via TEM, ESI/EELS, and zeta potential measurements before and throughout the experiment. The activity of PSII, stomatal conductivity, photosynthesis, transpiration and respiration rates were measured, and the photosynthetic pigments, chloroplast ultrastructure, and dry and fresh masses of leaves, roots, and fruits were assessed. The results indicated that combining AgNPs with mineral nutrients increased PSII activity and the photosynthesis rate and altered the chloroplast ultrastructure. However, the use of mineral nutrients or AgNPs alone did not induce these changes. Atomic absorption spectrometry detected AgNPs in all the plant organs except the fruits. The highest fruit yield was associated with Veni Prisma®, a commercial product containing colloidal silver, which also caused desynchronized fruit maturation. This study hypothesizes that the synergistic effect of AgNPs and mineral nutrients enhances silver accumulation in chloroplasts, improving light utilization and photosynthetic efficiency, particularly under low light, thus increasing fruit quantity and dry mass. Conversely, long-term use of AgNPs alone was accompanied by silver accumulation outside the chloroplasts and did not lead to increased photosynthesis or an increase in fresh fruit mass.

Analysis of Genetic Variability, Heritability, and Genetic Advance for Yield-Associated Traits under High Temperature Stress in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

The objective of this study was to examine the genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advancement in tomato plants (both parents and hybrids) in terms of their tolerance to high temperatures. The research was conducted at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (ICAR-IIVR) in Varanasi during the summer season of 2024 (February-May). In this study, a total of 23 tomato genotypes comprising 8 parent varieties and 15 hybrid crosses were cultivated using a completely randomized block design (CRBD). The ANOVA analysis indicated a notable level of genetic variability present in the genotypes for the traits under investigation. Both the phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation showed a higher PCV for all traits examined in relation to their respective GCV, highlighting the significant impact of environmental factors on the results. Significant heritability and genetic advance were noted for various traits, including average fruit weight, fruit quantity per plant, fruit setting, plant yield, anther tip burning, plant height, seed count per fruit, stigma exertion, crop duration, and pollen viability, underscoring their potential for genetic improvement in future research endeavors. Our research findings indicate that these characters are influenced by the cumulative effects of genes, highlighting the potential effectiveness of employing a selection method to enhance their tolerance to high temperatures in tomato plants.

FRUIT CONSUMPTION AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THE DEGREE OF INSULIN RESISTANCE

Fruit is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that can have beneficial health effects. Its consumption is recommended for the primary prevention of many chronic diseases, but opinions are divided regarding its preventive role in the development of hyperinsulinemia and diabetes. The purpose of this research is to assess the influence of the frequency and quantity of fruit consumed on the degree of insulin resistance (expressed through HOMA-IR), in people who have hyperinsulinemia and increased body mass. Through a survey questionnaire, 104 women and 71 men answered questions related to the representation of fruit in their diet. All 175 subjects were older than 25 years, had an increased body mass index (BMI>25 kg/m2), and diagnosed hyperinsulinemia. Most of the respondents, 95 (55.23%) consume fruit in a quantity less than 250g, the most common frequency of intake in 57 (32.57%) is from three to five times a week. There is a statistical dependence between the HOMA - IR index and the frequency of eating fruit every week, among respondents aged between 41 and 55. Women consume a larger quantity of fruit every week, and it was notable that those with a lower HOMA - IR index consume a smaller amount than those with a higher value on this index. Fruit is recommended as part of the diet for people with insulin resistance, but it should be represented in adequate quantities, to take advantage of its benefits.

Effect of potassium on the agronomic traits and fruit quality of Goji (Lycium barbarum L.)

To investgate the effects of potassium (K) application on the agronomic traits and fruit quality of Lycium barbarum L. (Goji), three levels of K fertilizer, namely LK (25 g/plant), CK (50 g/plant), and HK (75 g/plant), were applied to plants in phytotron for observing and measuring relevant indicators. The investigation involved seven agronomic traits: plant height, plant stem diameter, new branch increment, yield of fresh fruits per plant, dry fruit quantity within 50 g, ratio of different grade fruits, and ratio of longitudinal diameter to transverse diameter of Goji fruits. The results showed that K application level had significant effect on ratio of the longitudinal diameter to the transverse diameter of fresh Goji fruits, and that the influence on other agronomic traits was slight. In the meanwhile, the concentrations of amino acids, betaine, polysaccharides and flavonoids of Goji fruits in different levels of K fertilizer were tested. The K treatment increased the content of glutamic acid, and decreased that of flavonoids (P < 0.05), whereas the content of other amino acids, polysaccharides and betaine were unaffected. A total of 132 flavonoid metabolites was identified. Among them, K treatment up-regulated 36 metabolites and down-regulated 30 metabolites (P < 0.05). The results provided a basis for balanced K supply to regulate the agronomic traits and nutrients of Goji fruits.

Seasonal climate forecasts show skill in predicting winter chill for specialty crops in California

Many fruits and nuts crops in California require sufficient winter chill to break dormancy, and insufficient chill can harm fruit quantity and quality. Early information on winter chill forecast can help growers prepare for a low chill year. Here we evaluate use of dynamic climate models for chill accumulation forecast in California. Using temperature forecasts from seasonal prediction systems, we found that the multimodel forecasts can predict chill. This is evident from the anomaly correlation coefficients exceeding 0.5 between the model-predicted and reference chill values for most California regions. The forecasts correctly identified chill categories in over 50% instances in more than 40% of the Central Valley and southern parts of California. The forecasts also demonstrated skill in capturing the interannual variability of chill, especially during years with substantial decrease in chill. Additionally, the seasonal forecast can provide potentially useful crop specific chill sufficiency prediction. However, forecasts beyond a one-month lead time showed reduced forecast skills.

Grapevine Pinot gris virus spreads in infected vineyards: latent infections have no direct impact on grape production

BackgroundGrapevine Pinot gris virus (GPGV) infects grapevines worldwide and causes symptoms such as chlorotic mottling and deformations on leaves, stunted shoots and short panicles, or none of these symptoms if it appears as latent infection. So far, the consequences of GPGV infections for winegrowers are difficult to assess since important information such as plant performance at different GPGV infection levels and symptom expression are not fully clarified.MethodsIn order to investigate the course of GPGV spread, annual visual evaluations and ELISA tests were conducted over 3–4 consecutive years in four GPGV-infected vineyards in southern Germany: GEM, HEC, NIM, and REI. The program PATCHY was used to analyze spatial disease patterns. Sanger sequencing was used to determine virus isolates in vines at different GPGV infection levels, to test their respective influence on symptom expression. Yield and GrapeScan (FTIR) analyses were conducted to test the impact of different GPGV infection levels and isolates on fruit quantity and quality.ResultsGPGV infections significantly increased in all four vineyards (GEM 22–32%, HEC 50–99%, NIM 83–90%, REI 56–76%) with significant spreading patterns across and along rows. Specific symptom progression patterns were not observed. According to our results, the virus isolate has an influence on whether symptoms develop during a GPGV infection. While yield analyses revealed that yield losses only occur in symptomatic vines and range from 13 to 96% depending on the severity of symptoms, latent infections have no impact on grape production. No relevant effects of GPGV infections on must quality were observed.ConclusionsSecondary spread of GPGV was observed in all vineyards monitored, indicating vector-borne transmission that is likely to be accelerated by human viticultural management. GPGV should be further monitored to prevent the accumulation of detrimental symptomatic isolates. The results of this study can be used to assess the risk of GPGV to viticulture and should be considered when developing management strategies against the virus.

Effects of Pinching on Growth, Yield, and Quality of Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Varieties in Chitwan, Nepal

An investigation was accomplished at the production farm of Nepal Agrovine Private Limited, Bharatpur-5, Chitwan, from February 2021 to May 2021. Two factorial randomized complete block designs with twelve treatment combinations and three replications were used to set up the experiment. Factor A comprised three watermelon hybrids (Augusta, Sugar Queen, and Super Queen), and factor B comprised four pinching levels treatment (no pinching, fourth node pinching, sixth node pinching, and tenth node pinching). Pinching combinations were placed in each replication. Augusta had the longest main vine and the most nodes, while Sugar Queen had the longest leaves. The number of branches, the number of leaves per vine, and the internodal distance were not significantly affected by variety. Super Queen had the most female flowers, but Sugar Queen had the highest yield characteristics, such as average fruit weight, yield, and the number of fruits collected per vine. Fruit quality parameters like rind thickness were highest in Augusta, while fruit length, pulp percentage, and total soluble solids were reported to be highest in Sugar Queen. The sixth node pinching level recorded the maximum length of the main vine, number of branches per vine, number of nodes on the main vine, and leaf length, while the fourth node pinching level reported the maximum number of leaves per vine. Days to first, 50% and 100% flowering were lowest in no pinching. In sixth-node pinching, the maximum amount of female flowers, lowest sex ratio, and minimum number of male flowers were recorded. In a similar vein, the yield, average fruit weight, and number of fruits gathered per vine were reported to be the highest in sixth-node pinching. Significantly greater leaf width was reported in Sugar Queen x sixth node pinching, maximum main vine's node count was reported in Augusta x fourth node pinching, greater internodal distance in Augusta x no pinching, Sugar Queen x no pinching, and Super Queen x no pinching. Similarly, the amount and quantity of fruits obtained from each vine were reported to be maximum in Sugar Queen x 10th node pinching. In contrast, the average fruit weight was reported to be maximum in Augusta x sixth node pinching. Thus, it can concluded that the Sugar Queen variety of watermelon can be grown in Chitwan conditions during the late winter to spring season by pinching it at the 10th node for better yield. By implementing the pinching technique at the 10th node, farmers can potentially achieve higher yields, improving overall productivity and profitability.

Phytochemical, antioxidant, lipid peroxidation inhibition and sensory properties of roasted coffee mixed with various quantities of pomposia fruit (Syzygium cumini L.) powder

PurposeThis study aims to find out how pomposia fruit powder (Syzygium cumini L.) mixed with roasted coffee (RCO) affected antioxidants, phytochemicals, lipid peroxidation inhibition and sensory attributes.Design/methodology/approachPomposia fruits (Syzygium cumini L.) powder (PFP) was integrated with RCO at levels of 0.0%, 5.0%, 10.0%, 15.0% and 20.0%. RCO, PFP and binary mixtures containing RCO: PFP were evaluated for their total phenolics (TP), total flavonoids (TF), anthocyanin content (AC), antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds fractionation. The oxidative indices of coffee oil samples were measured throughout different storage intervals. Additionally, sensory characteristics of RCO enriched with different PFP doses were evaluated.FindingsPFP samples exhibited the greatest TP content (1910 mg/100 g), whereas RCO samples had the lowest concentration (1090 mg/100 g). As more PFP was added, the corresponding coffee blends’ concentrations of TP, TF and AC were improved significantly. PFP possesses a radical-scavenging activity that is about 1.20 times more than RCO’s. DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical-scavenging activity jumped significantly from 74.13% in control (untreated) samples to 77.64%, 78.39% and 80.15% for samples enriched with 10.0%, 15.0% and 20% PFP, respectively. Significant increases in gallic acid, hesperidine, benzoic acid, chlorogenic acid, hispertin, catechol, quercetin, pyrogallol and rutin were detected when RCO was mixed with different quantities of PFP. At the end of storage trial, the coffee oil treated with 20% PFP had AV, PV and TBA values that were about 1.70, 1.95 and 1.66 times lower, respectively, than those of the control sample that had not had PFP addition. The RCO with 5.0% PFP achieved the greatest over acceptability grades.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study was the first study to evaluate the effect of incorporating various level of pomposia fruit powder into RCO. The findings shows that adding different concentrations of pomposia fruit powder into RCO can indeed enhance the radical-scavenging activity of the coffee and potentially extend its shelf life.

Joint Associations of Quantity and Metabolic Quality of Fruits and Vegetables With Circulating Biomarkers of Inflammation, Adipokines, Insulin Response and Lipids

Joint Associations of Quantity and Metabolic Quality of Fruits and Vegetables With Circulating Biomarkers of Inflammation, Adipokines, Insulin Response and Lipids

Quantitative Determination of Minerals and Toxic Elements Content in Tropical and Subtropical Fruits by Microwave-Assisted Digestion and ICP-OES.

In the presented study, 15 tropical and subtropical fruits were studied for their mineral composition ranging from trace to major elements by ICP-OES after microwave digestion. The moisture amounts were assigned to be between 21.90 (tamarind) and 95.66% (pepino). The differences between the macroelement quantities of the fruits were established to be statistically significant (p<0.01). P and K quantities of fruits were displayed to be between 53.40 (pepino) and 927.74 mg/kg (tamarind) to 720.27 (pepino) and 13441.12 mg/kg (tamarind), respectively. While Ca quantities of fruits vary between 123.71 (pineapple) and 1519.76 mg/kg (blood orange), Mg quantities of fruits were established to be between 78.66 (pepino) and 875.02 mg/kg (tamarind). In general, the lowest macroelement quantities were determined in pepino fruit, but the highest P and K contents were determined in Gooseberry and Tamarind fruits, respectively. The microelement amounts of the fruits were established to be at very low levels compared to the macroelement contents. In general, the most abundant element in fruits was Fe, followed by Zn, Cu, Mn and B in decreasing order. In general, heavy metal quantities of fruits were detected at very low levels (except As and Ba). As and Ba quantities of fruits were assigned to be between 0.972 μg/g (mandarin) and 5.86 (kiwi) to 0.103 (pineapple) and 4.08 (avocado), respectively. As with macro and microelements, results regarding heavy metal concentrations varied depending on fruit types.

Research on Application of Japanese Quince (Chaenomeles L.) and Pork Collagen in Dark Chocolate-Benefits in Prevention of Inflammation In Vitro Model.

In the present study, the effect of the addition of quince and collagen type I and III to dessert chocolate on its functional properties was determined. The study evaluated the antioxidant potential of the tested formulations using the FRAP method and the linoleic acid oxidation test and beta-carotene bleaching test. The tested samples were also evaluated for inhibitory activity against enzymes important in preventive health (inflammation and neurodegenerative disorders) namely: AChE, BChE, GR, GPx, COX, and SOD. The addition of quince and collagen to the chocolate samples resulted in higher activity compared to the control sample, as indicated by the FRAP test. The experiment highlighted the impact of including quince fruit on the antioxidant activity of the chocolate samples. Interestingly, merely increasing the quince fruit amount did not consistently enhance antioxidant potential. Specifically, chocolate samples with a lower proportion of quince fruit (2 g/100 g) exhibited greater antioxidant activity when supplemented with collagen I. Conversely, in samples with higher quince percentages (3 g and 4 g), those enriched with collagen III showed higher antioxidant activity. Similar correlations were observed in the linoleic acid oxidation test. Notably, samples containing 3 g and 4 g of quince and type III collagen demonstrated statistically similar highest antioxidant properties. Regardless of the collagen type used, there was no observed increase in activity towards the tested enzymes for samples with the lowest percentage of quince fruit. Both collagen types exhibited the highest activity in the inhibition assay against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase when combined with 3 g and 4 g of quince. Overall, the experimental incorporation of both fruit and collagen enhanced the chocolates' activity. Similarly to the antioxidant activity findings, chocolates with lower quince fruit quantities showed increased activity when supplemented with collagen III, while those with higher quince content (3 g and 4 g) displayed higher activity with collagen I. Bitter chocolate by itself is an attractive food product, rich in many bioactive compounds. However, enriching it with other attractive raw materials can make its properties and taste even more attractive.

Response to Applying Vegetable Liquid Organic Fertilizer (POC) on Cucumber Plants (Cucumis sativus L.) Growth and Production

The horticultural plant Cucumis sativus L., commonly known as the cucumber plant, is highly favored and extensively grown in different regions across the globe. This study aims to establish the most effective concentration of liquid organic fertilizer for enhancing the growth and yield of cucumber crops and to offer valuable guidance for farmers seeking to enhance the efficiency and productivity of cucumber cultivation by employing liquid organic fertilizer. The study adopts a non-factorial randomized block design and includes 5 variance tests to determine whether there is a significant difference in further testing using BNT at the 5% significance level. The findings indicated that the 100-dosage treatment yielded consistently superior outcomes regarding fresh fruit weight, fruit length, and the quantity of fruit per harvest compared to alternative treatments. The administration of the 100 doses resulted in a significant increase in the fruit's fresh weight, with the most favorable outcomes observed at Harvest 3. Conversely, the 0 dose exhibited lower results across all measured parameters. The dosis 50 treatment demonstrated favorable outcomes, although not to the same extent as the Dosis 100. Conversely, the dosis 75 treatment yielded suboptimal results in enhancing fruit production.

Administrative empowerment and its role in reducing career cynicism among physical education teachers in Salah ad Din province

A recent study has shown that consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Conducted on a large group of participants over ten years, the study found that those who ate larger quantities of fruits and vegetables were less likely to suffer from heart attacks and strokes. The findings indicated that dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals in these foods play a crucial role in promoting heart health. The study emphasized the importance of consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure a wide range of essential nutrients. Additionally, the research highlighted that the health benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables also include improved digestive functions and maintaining a healthy weight. To achieve the best results, the study recommends consuming at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily, focusing on fresh and seasonal produce whenever possible. These results reinforce general health recommendations and underscore the significance of a balanced diet in preventing chronic diseases and enhancing overall quality of life.

Assessment of Pistachio Shell-Based Biochar Application in the Sustainable Amendment of Soil and Its Performance in Enhancing Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Growth

This study aimed to (a) analyze the influence of pyrolysis temperature on pistachio shell-based biochar (PSB) properties and (b) assess the PSB effect on green bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) growth. Pyrolysis experiments were conducted at different temperatures, determining 450 °C as optimal for soil amendment. The effect of PSB addition at different mass ratios was analyzed considering the physicochemical properties of the mixtures and the agronomic parameters of green bell pepper plants and fruits under greenhouse conditions. Results demonstrated enhancements in soil properties upon biochar incorporation, including a decrease in pH by 1%, a decrease in electrical conductivity (EC) by 4–14%, and increases in cation exchange capacity (CEC) by 4–8%, organic matter (OM) and organic carbon (OC) by 100–200%, and total nitrogen (TN) by 35%, relative to unamended soil. Agronomic variables revealed improvements, particularly during the reproductive and maturity stages, with plants treated with 1% biochar (SB1) exhibiting enhanced growth and chlorophyll content, alongside increased flower and fruit yields. Notably, the 2% biochar treatment (SB2) yielded superior fruit weight and length results, suggesting the potential for biochar to enhance both the quality and quantity of green bell pepper fruits, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Site occupancy of native terrestrial mammals in oil palm landscapes is driven by the synergy of land sparing and sharing strategies

The conversion of tropical rainforests into industrial oil palm monocultures has detrimental effects of local biodiversity. Although some medium-sized mammals have demonstrated a degree of adaptability in oil palm landscapes, the factors that influence their ability to persist in such human-altered environments remain obscure. Here, we investigated the site occupancy and activity pattern of the mammals in oil palm landscapes in Peninsular Malaysia. We deployed 81 camera traps throughout six oil palm cultivation areas with two distinct management styles (three sites each in organized smallholdings and industrial plantations). Smallholdings had higher site occupancy of native animal species than industrial plantations. The site occupancy of the mammals was influenced by the proximity to continuous forest, forest patches and riparian vegetation. Landscape metrics are characteristics that affect land sparing strategy, allowing wildanimals in agricultural landscapes to thrive in their habitat despite human threats. At stand-level, the detection of animals was determined by elevation, undergrowth vegetation cover/height, canopy cover, oil palm height, quantity of oil palm fruits, and prune stack thickness. Mammal occupancy was higher in the smallholdings due to the proximity to continuous forest. We recommend improving landscape heterogeneity and connectivity in oil palm matrix to promote species mobility and diversifying oil palm management away from monoculture farming. Our findings indicate that incorporating land sharing and sparing strategies into the oil palm matrix is necessary to conserve biodiversity and maintain ecological services. This implies that industry stakeholders ought not to disregard either land sparing or land sharing.

Effect of chitosan-tripolyphosphate to suppress anthracnose (Colletotrichum spp.) in post-harvest chili

Anthracnose disease (Colletotrichum spp.) in chili can lead to low fruit quantity and quality from planting to the postharvest stage. The environmentally friendly management using chitosan (CS) is expected to suppress anthracnose disease and increase the shelf-life of chili. This study aimed to determine the effect of the chitosan-tripolyphosphate (CS-TPP) to suppress anthracnose on chili during postharvest storage through in-vitro and in-vivo assays. In the in-vitro assay, CS-TPP solution with a ratio of [5:2] and [3:1] was applied into a warm Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium. It was grown by Colletotrichum pathogen, while on in vivo assay, CS-TPP was applied to chili fruit before being inoculated by the pathogen. A control treatment was prepared without CS-TPP application. Results revealed that the CS-TPP ratios affected the growth of Colletotrichum spp. at the in-vitro assay. The CS-TPP [5:2] ratio was more effective than CS-TPP [3:1] in reducing the growth of Colletotrichum spp. with the fungal inhibition of 62,65% and 55,56%, respectively, compared to the control treatment. Moreover, it also showed anthracnose disease suppression on chili fruit of 51%, and 29%, respectively, compared to control treatment at in-vivo assay. This study showed the potential use of CS-TPP as a coating application for anthracnose disease management on storage chili, however further study such as viability and longevity of formula need to be done.