Stem Length Research Articles

Morphological Differentiation, Yield, and Cutting Time of Lolium multiflorum L. under Acid Soil Conditions in Highlands.

Livestock production in the basins of the northern macro-region of Peru has as its primary source pastures of Lolium multiflorum L. 'Cajamarquino ecotype' (ryegrass CE) in monoculture, or in association with white clover Ladino variety, for feeding. The objective of this research work was the morphological characterisation, yield evaluation, and cutting time evaluation of two local genotypes (LM-58 and LM-43) of Lolium multiflorum L. in six locations. An ANOVA was performed to compare fixed effects and interaction. It was determined that the LM-58 genotype is intermediate, growing semi-erect, with a dark green colouring and 0.8 cm broadleaf, and can reach an average stem length of 46 cm, up to 1.6 cm. day-1, achieving fourth-leaf growth at 28 days under appropriate management conditions. Despite the differentiated characteristics, according to BLASTn evaluation, the ITS1 sequences showed a greater than 99.9% similar identification to Lolium multiflorum L., characterising it as such. It was determined that the LM-58 genotype outperforms LM-43, achieving a forage yield of 4.49 Mg. ha-1, a seed production of 259.23 kg. ha-1, and an average of 13.48% crude protein (CP). The best biomass yield (49.10 Mg. ha-1.yr-1) is reached at 60 days; however, at 30 days, there is a high level of CP (14.84%) and there are no differences in the annual protein production at the cutting age of 60 and 45 days. With the results of the present study, LM-58 from a selection and crossbreeding of 680 ryegrass EC accessions emerges as an elite genotype adapted to the conditions of the northern high Andean zone of Peru.

Morphological characterization, seed production, and oil content of several lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (D.C.) Stapf.) Line

Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as lemongrass, is a perennial herb widely cultivated for its culinary, medicinal, and aromatic industries. This research investigates the morphological characterization and potential yield of different lemongrass lines. The study involved the collection of diverse lemongrass genotypes from various geographic regions in Indonesia. The research was conducted using a randomized block design with three replications. Morphological character observations encompass both quantitative and qualitative characters of plants. Morphological characteristics such as plant height, leaf length and width, stem diameter, and number of tillers were measured to assess the variations among the genotypes. The results revealed considerable variability in the morphological traits among the lemongrass. Plant height ranged from 102.28 to 158.96 cm, while stem length and diameter varied between 26.11 to 42.61 cm and 8.99 to 19.68 cm, respectively. The number of tillers per plant ranged from 7.59 to 49.41. Moreover, the essential oil content varied from 0.07% to 0.26% (v/w). According to correlation analysis, the stem's diameter and the leaf's width positively correlate with the essential oil content. As a result, we can continue to develop the Sukabumi local line to maximize biomass and essential oil yields.

Evaluation of Nitrogen and Potassium Fertilization on Vegetative Parameters of Acroclinium (Helipterum roseum)

The present investigation entitled “Effect of N and K fertilization on vegetative growth of Acroclinium (Helipterum roseum)” was carried out at the laboratory of floriculture and experimental farm of Mata Gujri college, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with twelve treatments and three replications. The treatments were T1 i.e., 125 kg/acre urea + 60 kg/acre MOP, T2 i.e., 175 kg/acre urea + 60 kg/acre MOP, T3 i.e., 225 kg/acre urea + 60 kg/acre MOP, T4 i.e., 125 kg/acre urea + 80 kg/acre MOP, T5 i.e., 175 kg/acre urea + 80 kg/acre MOP, T6 i.e., 225 kg/acre urea + 80 kg/acre MOP, T7 i.e., 125 kg/acre urea + 0 kg/acre MOP, T8 i.e., 175 kg/acre urea + 0 kg/acre MOP, T9 i.e., 225 kg/acre urea + 0 kg/acre MOP, T10 i.e., 0 kg/acre urea + 80 kg/acre MOP, T11 i.e., 0 kg/acre urea + 60 kg/acre MOP and T12 i.e., control. Observations were recorded for vegetative, flowering and seed yield parameters. Among all treatments maximum plant height (44.86 cm and 59.91 cm ), leaf length (5.01 cm and 5.33 cm), plant spread (17.68 cm2 and 32.37 cm2) and diameter of main stem (6.13 mm and 10.77 mm) were found maximum in T3 i.e., 225 kg/acre urea + 60 kg/acre MOP and maximum number of leaves per stem (37.28 and 54.98) and number of leaves per plant (645.67 and 1055.13) was observed in T9 i.e., 225 kg/acre urea + 0 kg/acre MOP at 45 and 90 days respectively. Best vegetative parameters were recorded in 225 kg/acre urea + 60 kg/acre MOP and 225 kg/acre urea + 0 kg/acre MOP are best dosage for Acroclinium flower.

What features of stem increase the risk of intraoperative femoral fracture during cementless primary hip arthroplasty?

Cementless fixation has become increasingly popular in hip arthroplasty due to its shorter operation time, easier technique, biologic fixation, and avoidance of bone cement implantation syndrome compared to cemented fixation. However, intraoperative periprosthetic femoral fracture (IOPFx) is a disconcerting complication during cementless hip arthroplasty. Our purpose was to identify the features of cementless stem that increase the risk of IOPFx during primary hip arthroplasty. We retrospectively reviewed all 4806 hip arthroplasties that was performed in a single institution from May 2003 to December 2020. Age at the index arthroplasty, sex, body mass index, physical status, ambulatory function, side of the operation, operational history, cause of the index arthroplasty, type of arthroplasty, surgical approach, surgeon, implant information, and events during the operation were investigated. The shoulder geometry and length of stem were also reviewed. The event of interest was narrowed down to IOPFx among various records of intraoperative events. We found IOPFx of 2.6% among all the hips operated with cementless stem. In the multivariable analysis, female (OR = 1.52), childhood hip disease (OR = 2.30), stove-pipe femur (OR = 2.43), combined approach (OR = 2.60), and standard length of stem (OR = 1.59) were found to be significant risk factors of IOPFx. In conclusion, a stem with a standard length is significantly associated with risk of IOPFx compared to a shortened stem. These findings highlight the importance of careful consideration in terms of the risk of IOPFx when standard length cementless stem is chosen.

Young dove trees tend to invest more biomass in vegetative and reproductive organs than old trees at the twig level

Research on the functional traits of twigs is of great significance to clarify the plant life-history strategies, especially for endangered plants. However, little attention has been given to the environmental adaptation strategy of different age twigs. The dove tree (Davidia involucrata Baill.), a relict and critically endangered Chinese species, was employed as a model species. Total lamina mass and area, stem mass and length, total bract mass and area, and total petiole mass were measured for 100 current-year terminal twigs (50 per age group) from old and young dove trees in Pingwu County, Sichuan, southwest China. Then, the scaling relationships within the twig were determined using the standardized major axis (SMA) regression method. Our results showed that the significantly positive correlations among traits of D. involucrata twigs, and scaling relationships between these traits are different between the two age groups. At the twig level, isometric scaling relationships exist between stem mass and lamina size (or bract size) and between total lamina mass and total lamina area (or total petiole mass). In contrast, allometric scaling relationships exist between lamina size (total mass and area) and stem length (with a common slope > 1), and between total lamina mass and total petiole mass (with a common slope < 1). For a given stem mass, stem length and bract area, young trees have larger total lamina mass and total bract mass, larger total lamina mass and area, and larger total bract mass than old trees, respectively. The results suggest that young trees tend to have more vegetative and reproductive organ mass per unit of supporting organ mass than old trees to meet their rapid growth needs.

Stem to prevent periprosthetic fracture after notching in total knee arthroplasty.

Improper osteotomy during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can lead to anterior femoral notching, which increases the risk of periprosthetic fractures due to stress concentration. One potential solution is the addition of an intramedullary stem to the femoral component. However, the optimal stem length remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to determine the optimal stem length using finite element models. Finite element models of femurs were developed with unstemmed prostheses and prostheses with stem lengths of 50, 75, and 100 mm. Under squat loading conditions, the von Mises stress at the notch and stress distribution on four transversal sections of the femur were analyzed. Additionally, micromotion of the prosthesis-bone interface was evaluated to assess initial stability. The unstemmed prosthesis exhibited a von Mises stress of 191.8 MPa at the notch, which decreased to 43.1, 8.8, and 23.5 MPa for stem lengths of 50, 75, and 100 mm, respectively. The stress reduction on four selected femoral transversal sections compared with the unstemmed prosthesis was 40.0%, 84.4%, and 67.1% for stem lengths of 50, 75, and 100 mm, respectively. Micromotion analysis showed a maximum of 118.8 μm for the unstemmed prosthesis, which decreased significantly with the application of stems, particularly at the anterior flange. Intramedullary stems effectively reduced stress concentration at the femoral notch. The 50-mm stem length provided the optimal combination of reduced notch stress, minimized stress-shielding effect, and decreased micromotion at the anterior flange.

Variability of morphological and phenological traits in &lt;i&gt;Vigna unguiculata&lt;/i&gt; (L.) Walp. accessions contrasting by growth type in different ecological and geographical conditions

Background. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is a thermophilic crop that occupies the third place in the world in terms of cultivation area among leguminous crops. Vegetable cowpea cultivars are successfully cultivated in the open ground in Russia, in its southern regions and the south of the Far East. The creation of new cultivars adapted to cultivation in different regions and suitable for widespread industrial production, is extremely relevant. Materials and methods. The variability of 20 morphological and 3 phenological traits of six cowpea accessions with different growth habit types and architectonics was assessed in various ecological and geographical conditions at VIR experiment stations (in Astrakhan Province, Primorye Territory and Krasnodar Territory) in 2019-2022. The variability and interrelationships of the traits were estimated using basic and multivariate statistical methods. Results. The analysis revealed a significant influence of the factor complex (genotype/accession, research location) on the variability of traits. Phenological traits, the length of internodes and leaflets, depended most strongly on the research location. The range of variation in the number of nodes, branches, peduncles and beans per plant, stem thickness and bean size were determined by the genotype to a larger extent. The range of stem length variability was significantly influenced by the research location and the genotype, though the genotype had a stronger influence. The genotypes responded differently to changes in growing conditions. For the most of the studied accessions, an increase in the main stem length was noted in the monsoon climate conditions of the Primorye Territory, for some of them the type of growth habit changed from determinate to indeterminate. In our research, the plant length was positively correlated with the amount of precipitation and with the average relative air humidity. Excessive humidity and precipitation had minimal effect only on cv. ʻLyanchiheʼ, whose plants retained dwarfness and compact architectonics. Factor analysis (principal factors analysis) revealed 4 factors responsible for the main part of the variance of the analyzed traits. The characteristics of the leaf were combined in the first factor, those of architectonics and time of plant development in the second, features of the seedling and the juvenile stage in the third, and those of the bean in the fourth factor. These complexes of traits (factors) determined the variability of cowpea in our research. Conclusion. The performed analysis of morphological and phenological traits revealed a significant increase of stem length and changes in plant architectonics under conditions of high relative humidity and a large amount of precipitation. In some cases, even the type of growth habit was changed. The further research on the studied characters variability involving more accessions and the determination of molecular mechanisms that control stability of the growth habit type and length of the stem will allow us to proceed to a more efficient and rapid creation of new cultivars suitable for mechanized cultivation. This is extremely important for the development of new areas by cultivating species, the demand in which as a source of food and feed is increasing in the Russian Federation.

Reference genome sequence and population genomic analysis of peas provide insights into the genetic basis of Mendelian and other agronomic traits.

Peas are essential for human nutrition and played a crucial role in the discovery of Mendelian laws of inheritance. In this study, we assembled the genome of the elite vegetable pea cultivar 'Zhewan No. 1' at the chromosome level and analyzed resequencing data from 314 accessions, creating a comprehensive map of genetic variation in peas. We identified 235 candidate loci associated with 57 important agronomic traits through genome-wide association studies. Notably, we pinpointed the causal gene haplotypes responsible for four Mendelian traits: stem length (Le/le), flower color (A/a), cotyledon color (I/i) and seed shape (R/r). Additionally, we discovered the genes controlling pod form (Mendelian P/p) and hilum color. Our study also involved constructing a gene expression atlas across 22 tissues, highlighting key gene modules related to pod and seed development. These findings provide valuable pea genomic information and will facilitate the future genome-informed improvement of pea crops.

A comprehensive morphometric analysis of superior and inferior mesenteric arteries using cadaveric dissection and MDCT angiography

BackgroundSuperior mesenteric artery (SMA) and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) are vital vascular structures supplying the majority of the intestinal tract. Despite their clinical significance, comprehensive morphometric studies combining traditional cadaveric dissection with modern imaging techniques are scarce in literature. This study aimed to provide a detailed morphometric analysis of the SMA and IMA using both cadaveric dissection and multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography. MethodsThe study utilized a dual approach, combining cadaveric dissection (30 formalin-fixed cadavers) and MDCT angiography (images from 50 patients). Measurements including stem lengths, diameters at origin, and distances from the aortic bifurcation were taken, along with assessment of vertebral levels of origin and branching patterns. Data from both components were analyzed using descriptive statistics. ResultsKey findings for SMA include: Mean stem length: 3.19 ± 0.72 cm (cadaveric) vs. 2.53 ± 0.53 cm (MDCT); Mean diameter at origin: 0.93 ± 0.22 cm (cadaveric) vs. 0.57 ± 0.10 cm (MDCT); Most common vertebral level of origin: Upper border of L1 (78 % of cases); Branching pattern variations observed in 23.3 % of cadaveric specimens, which included the origin of the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery from the first jejunal artery, a common trunk for right colic and ileocolic arteries, and absence of middle colic artery. For IMA: Mean stem length: 3.61 ± 1.29 cm (cadaveric) vs. 3.41 ± 0.69 cm (MDCT); Mean diameter at origin: 0.50 ± 0.11 cm (cadaveric) vs. 0.26 ± 0.05 cm (MDCT); Most common vertebral level of origin: Upper border of L3 (40 % of cases). No variations observed in branching pattern. ConclusionsThe detailed measurements, frequency of variations, and comparison between traditional and modern assessment techniques offer a nuanced understanding of mesenteric vascular anatomy. This study bridges the gap between classical anatomical knowledge and contemporary imaging capabilities, potentially improving surgical planning, interventional procedures, and radiological interpretation.

Biostimulant effect of green soil microalgae Chlorella vulgaris suspensions on germination and growth of wheat (Triticum aestivum var. Achtar) and soil fertility

Microalgae-derived biostimulants are increasingly used as viable tools to improve growth, yield of crops, and reduce agricultural environmental footprint. However, microalgae isolated from aquatic environments are the main strains used in the production of biostimulants. This study aims to evaluate the biostimulant effect of a terrestrial Chlorella vulgaris strain isolated from arid soil on germination and growth of wheat (Triticum aestivum, var. Achtar). Different concentrations 0.2 %, 0.5 %, 25 % and 50 % (v/v) of four C. vulgaris treatments (aqueous extract, filtered culture, crude culture and sonified culture) were investigated by measuring several biometric parameters to assess wheat germination and growth performance. All C. vulgaris treatments significantly enhanced wheat germination and growth with concentration dependent effect. The crude culture and filtrate at 25 % were the most effective compared to untreated plants. They significantly improved wheat germination index by 16.86 %, germination rate coefficient by 7.87 %, germination energy by 20.40 % as well as growth parameters such as root length (62.82 % and 52.84 %), stem length (71.36 % and 59.19 %), and root (662.5 % and 391.67 %) and stem dry biomass (675 % and 370.83 %), respectively. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that crude culture and filtrate at the lowest doses of 0.5 and 25 % were closely correlated to enhanced wheat root and shoot length and dry weight. The plant nutrients, mineral elements, chlorophyll a, total proteins and carbohydrates contents were positively correlated with enhanced shoot length and dry weight. The soil physicochemical properties were significantly increased under all C. vulgaris treatments at higher dose (50 %) whereas plants N and P contents enhancement was correlated to the soil nutrients increase. Thus, the results highlighted the potential of soil microalgae as an eco-friendly biostimulant for promoting sustainable agriculture.

Changes in growth characteristics and ginsenoside contents of wild-simulated ginseng with different harvest times in South Korea

Wild-simulated ginseng (WSG, Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) is grown in mountainous forests, without the chemical treatment or installation of artificial facilities. This study aimed to investigate monthly changes in growth characteristics and ginsenoside contents in WSG to suggest the optimal harvest time. Four-year-old WSG were collected in the same area every month, and their growth characteristics and ginsenoside contents were measured. The growth characteristics of aerial and root parts were measured from May to July and from March to December, respectively. For the aerial part, most growth characteristics of WSG decreased over time, except for stem length. For the root part, rhizome length increased over time except for September, while the root diameter and weight of root part were mostly consistent. The root length increased by September, while the number of rootlets was the highest at May. At July, the total ginsenoside content of WSG was significantly the highest, while the total ginsenoside content at October was the lowest. This result was believed to be due to the F2, Rd, and Rg1 contents of the aerial part, rather than the root part. Also, based on these growths and the ginsenoside contents of WSG, the optimal harvest time for WSG is considered to be late spring–summer (May–July) when the aerial part can be identified.

Effect of Fertilizer With Potassium Humate and the Method of Addition to the Growth and Yield of Red Cabbage

Background: The application of potassium humate has been recognized for its potential to enhance plant growth and yield due to its nutrient enrichment properties. Specific Background: Despite extensive research on various fertilizers, the specific effects of potassium humate on red cabbage (Ruby King cultivar) growth and yield, especially concerning the method of application, remain underexplored. Knowledge Gap: Limited studies have addressed the comparative impact of foliar spraying versus soil addition of potassium humate on cabbage vegetative growth and yield characteristics. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of potassium humate (0, 50, 100, 150 g.l-1) and application methods (foliar spraying and soil addition) on the growth and yield of red cabbage. Results: A randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications was implemented during the 2022-2023 agricultural season. Significant improvements in vegetative growth and yield were observed with the highest concentration (150 g.l-1) of foliar spraying. Key vegetative and yield parameters, such as plant height, stem length, number of leaves, leaf chlorophyll content, average head weight, and total yield, were positively influenced. Novelty: This study uniquely highlights the superior efficacy of foliar spraying with potassium humate at 150 g.l-1 over soil addition, providing insights into optimizing fertilization strategies for red cabbage. Implications: The findings advocate for the use of potassium humate, particularly via foliar spraying, as a beneficial organic fertilizer to enhance red cabbage growth and yield. This practice could lead to improved agricultural productivity and better tolerance of plants to environmental stresses, supporting sustainable agriculture initiatives. Highlights: Superior Growth: Foliar spraying with 150 g.l-1 potassium humate boosts growth. Yield Increase: Highest humate concentration yields maximum red cabbage. Effective Strategy: Foliar spraying outperforms soil addition for fertilization. Keywords: Potassium humate, foliar spraying, red cabbage, vegetative growth, yield enhancement

Adding Phyto-LED Spectrum to White-LED Light Increases the Productivity of Lettuce Plants

The effect of light of various spectral compositions on the complex morphophysiological parameters of lettuce plants in hydroponic was studied. The light sources had the following light spectra: warm white light—2700 K, cold white light—6500 K, and Phyto-LED light, as well as 2700 K + Phyto-LED and 6500 K + Phyto-LED. The dry and fresh biomass, leaf area, stem length, photosynthetic pigment content, photosynthesis and transpiration rates, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and percentage of plants that passed into the generative stage of development were studied. The results showed that partial and complete replacement of white LEDs by Phyto-LEDs with lower green light content and greater amounts of far-red light in the radiation spectrum caused an increase in plant productivity of 37%, average leaf area, and transpiration rate in the treatments but also promoted an earlier transition of plants to flowering under light treatment, Phyto-LEDs, and Phyto-LEDs + white LEDs. The 2700 K + Phyto-LED treatment had one of the highest productivities, as did the Phyto-LED and 6500 K + Phyto-LED treatments, but this lighting treatment provoked less flowering on the 60th day of the growing period.

A deep learning-based method for estimating the main stem length of sweet potato seedlings

The length of sweet potato seedling main stems is critical for harvest decisions, but accurately measuring it is challenging due to leaf occlusion and self-curvature. This study proposes a method for stem reconstruction and length estimation using a two-stage classifier, feature extraction, and semantic segmentation to obtain stem masks. Image processing separates clustered skeletons into singular lines for detailed analysis. Object detection identifies roots, stem-leaf intersections, and establishes a search relationship among segments. Stems are reconstructed based on directional, distance, and curvature constraints, then divided into four parts for length estimation using stereo depth information. Experimental results demonstrate effectiveness under various conditions: un-occluded, partially occluded, curved stems, and low-density clusters. Median length estimation error is 1.7 cm, with maximum and minimum errors of 3.2 cm and 0.3 cm respectively. This automated method provides a reliable solution for sweet potato seedling harvest and grading.

Influence of Certain Biostimulants on the Vegetative Growth of Annual Moringa (Moringa oleifera. Lam)

Due to the importance of moringa leaves which can help improve the dietary diversity and quality of households that need to improve their nutritional intake, being a potential alternate source of protein, and for the sake of increasing its growth and yield, this study is determine the effect of some biofertilizers, amino acids and seaweed extract on vegetative growth of moringa seedlings As well as, to find out the best fertilization treatment to improve the vegetative growth of Moringa and reducing the intensive use of chemical fertilizers. This study was conducted in the Experimental Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture (Saba-Basha), Alexandria University, Egypt, during two consecutive seasons of 2020 and 2021, to study the effect of biofertilizers, amino acids, and seaweed extract and its combinations on the growth of Moringa (Moringa oleifera, L.). The experiment was designed as split-split plot design it included 27 treatments with three replicates. The results revealed that the highest significant values of vegetative growth as plant height (171.8 cm), stem length (87.30 cm), stem diameter (3.49 cm), leaves fresh weight (70.61 g), leaves dry weight (13.35g), number of leaves per plant (72.03), and number of leaves per shoot (54.41) were achieved when the trees were soil bio-fertilized and sprayed with the investigated amino acid 700 mg/l + seaweed extract 700 mg/l + cerealine (T26) for both seasons of study. While the number of branches per plant (15.28), shoot fresh weight (138.1g), and shoot dry weight (24.07g) were concerned, the highest values were obtained when the plants were treated with soil bio-fertilization (Phosphorine), sprayed with amino acids, and seaweed extract, as the abovementioned treatments, amino acid 700 mg/l + seaweed extract 700 mg/l + Phosphorine (T25), for both seasons of study compared to the other treatments and control.

Predicting the Threat Status of Mosses Using Functional Traits.

Mosses are an early lineage of the plant kingdom, with around 13,000 species. Although an important part of biodiversity, providing crucial ecosystem services, many species are threatened with extinction. However, only circa 300 species have so far had their extinction risk evaluated globally for the IUCN Red List. Functional traits are known to help predict the extinction risk of species in other plant groups. In this study, a matrix of 15 functional traits was produced for 723 moss species from around the world to evaluate the potential of such predictability. Binary generalized linear models showed that monoicous species were more likely to be threatened than dioicous species, and the presence of a sporophyte (sexual reproduction), vegetative reproduction and an erect (straight) capsule instead of a pendent (immersed) one lowers the risk of species extinction. A longer capsule, seta and stem length, as well as broader substrate breadth, are indicative of species with a lower risk of extinction. The best-performing models fitted with few traits were able to predict extinction risks of species with good accuracy. These models applied to Data Deficient (DD) species proved how useful they may be to speed up the IUCN Red List assessment process while reducing the number of listed DD species, by selecting species most in need of a full, detailed assessment. Some traits tested in this study are a novelty in conservation research on mosses, opening new possibilities for future studies. The traits studied and the models presented here are a significant contribution to the knowledge of mosses at risk of extinction and will help to improve conservation efforts.

Functional traits and ecological niches as correlates of the interspecific growth–mortality trade‐off among seedlings of 14 tropical tree species

Abstract The interspecific trade‐off between growth versus mortality rates of tree species is thought to be driven by functional biology and to contribute to species ecological niche differentiation. Yet, functional trait variation is often not strongly correlated with growth and mortality, and few studies have investigated the relationships of both traits and niches, specifically encompassing above and belowground resources, to the trade‐off itself. These relationships are particularly relevant for seedlings, which must often survive resource limitation to reach larger size classes. We investigated the functional basis of the interspecific growth–mortality trade‐off and its relationship with ecological niches for seedlings of 14 tree species in a tropical forest in southwest China. We found evidence for an interspecific growth–mortality trade‐off at the seedling stage using 15 functional traits and 15 ecological niche variables. None of the organ‐level traits correlated with growth, mortality, nor the trade‐off, whereas specific stem length (SSL), a biomass allocation trait, was the only trait to have a significant correlation (positive). Moreover, light‐defined niches were not correlated with growth, mortality or the trade‐off, but soil‐defined niches did. Species at the faster growth/higher mortality end of the trade‐off were associated with higher fertility defined by lower soil bulk density and slope, and higher soil organic matter concentration and soil total nitrogen. Our findings indicate the importance of stem elongation and soil fertility for growth, mortality and their trade‐off at the seedling stage in this Asian tropical forest. Our findings contrast with analogous studies in neotropical forests showing the importance of photosynthesis‐related leaf traits related to insolation. Therefore, the functional drivers of demographic rates and trade‐offs, as well as their consequences for ecological niches, can vary among forests, likely owing to differences in biogeography, canopy disturbance rates, topography and soil properties. Moreover, the effects of functional trait variation on demographic rates and trade‐offs may be better revealed when biomass allocation is accounted for in a whole‐plant context. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi affect early phenological stages of three secondary vegetation species in a temperate forest

The relationship between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and secondary vegetation (SV) species at early phenological stages is critical for the successful establishment of these plants on disturbance sites in temperate forests. The main objective of this research is to evaluate the effect of AMF colonization on the early phenological stages (germination and early growth) of three shrub species present in the SV of a temperate forest in central Mexico. We collected soil from different sites in the Abies religiosa forest in central Mexico. We collected seeds of Acaena elongata, Ageratina glabrata, and Solanum pubigerum. We used a controlled experimental design with pasteurized soil (-AMF treatments) and unpasteurized soil (+ AMF treatments). We monitored germination percentage, growth (shoot and root weight and total biomass), AMF root colonization, and the mycorrhizal response index (MRI) for each plant species. All three species tested benefited by AMF, showing higher germination rates. Shoot and root weight and total biomass were significantly higher in the + AMF treatment. Solanum pubigerum showed greater stem length and Ageratina glabrata showed greater root development due to AMF. Ageratina glabrata and Acaena elongata were the most responsive to AMF as indicated by MRI. This research underscores the critical role of AMF in the early phenological stages of SV and highlights the potential ecological benefits of AMF in supporting plant germination and plant growth. These results suggest that AMF enhance germination and early growth of secondary vegetation species, which can be considered in management plans for forest ecosystems.

Влияние применения различных гуминовых препаратов на формирование урожая и качество зернофуражного ячменя

The results of studies on the effectiveness of seed treatment and plant spraying with various humic preparations on spring grain feed barley are presented. The objectives of the research included assessing the effect of various humic preparations on productivity, disease resistance and grain quality of spring barley under various methods of their application (seed treatment, plant spraying, seed treatment + plant spraying). The objects of research were spring two-row barley of the Raushan variety. Humic preparations Bigus and Gumat +7 were used. The research was carried out in 2022-2023 on gray forest, medium loamy soil. In 2022, moisture conditions during the growing season were favorable; in 2023, periodic severe drought events were observed. The use of humic preparations led to a decrease in the development of both leaf diseases (dark brown spot) and root rot. The drug Bigus Extra had a more pronounced effect on reducing the damage to plants by root rot. The use of humic preparations had a positive effect on the length of the stem and ear of barley. The maximum values of the stem length were when using seed treatment and spraying crops with Bigus Extra, and the greatest length of the ear was when using Gumi+7. The use of humic preparations increases the yield of spring barley from 11 to 27.8%. When using only seed treatment or only spraying of crops, Bigus Extra had an advantage in yield, and when using a combination – seed treatment + plant treatment Humat +7. The highest yield of spring barley (27.8% more than in the control) was obtained using a scheme in which seeds and plants were treated with Humate +7. The use of seed treatment followed by spraying of plants led to an increase in the protein content of barley grain. The use of humic preparations in which they are used for pre-sowing seed treatment and subsequently for spraying crops (twice) was optimal for spring barley.

Effect of organic fertilizer and amino acids on the vegetative growth of young pomegranate trees Punica granatum L. c.v. “Wonderful”

The experiment was conducted on a pomegranate field located in a deciduous fruit orchard at the Agricultural Research and Experimentation Station, which is associated with the College of Agriculture at the University of Kirkuk in the Republic of Iraq. The experiment took place during the 2023 season. The study incorporated 2 variables. The experiment consisted of 2 factors: the first factor included 5 levels of organic fertilization (0, 250 and 500 g tree-1 of residue poultry and 15 and 30 g tree-1 of humic acid) and the second factor involved spraying with 3 concentrations of amino acids (0-, 5- and 10- mL L-1). The experimental design used was a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) within factorial experiments, with 2 factors and 3 replicates. The study involved a total of 90 young pomegranate trees, with 2 trees assigned to each experimental unit. The data were analyzed using Duncan's multinomial test at a significance level of 0.05. Applying 500 g of chicken waste per tree resulted in a notable enhancement in vegetative development, namely in stem length. The leaf area and dry weight of the leaves were measured at 6.45 cm2 and 54.67 % respectively. The level of 30 g tree-1 of humic acid resulted in a significant increase in the stem diameter, branch length and branch diameter, which was recorded at 23.16 mm, 39.98 cm and 6.30 mm respectively, compared to the control treatment. The application of a 10 mL L-1 concentration of amino acids led to a notable enhancement in the observed traits (stem length and branches, their diameters, leaf area and dry weight of leaves) in comparison to the control treatment. The mutual influence of organic fertilizer and spraying with amino acids resulted in a noticeable and statistically significant effect. This effect was particularly evident when using a level of 500 g tree-1 of chicken waste for fertilization and a concentration of 10 mL L-1 of amino acids for spraying, as it positively impacted most parameters.