Root Weight Research Articles

Pigeonpea cyst nematode (Heteroderacajani Koshy) pathogenicity in black gram (Vigna mungo L.): Quantitative and qualitative yield losses, and bio- organic management

The pigeonpea cyst nematode (PCN) Heterodera cajani Koshy infects black gram (Vigna mungo L.), causing significant yield losses. However, there is a lack of systematic information on PCN pathogenicity, as well as quantitative and qualitative yield losses in black gram under various inoculum levels and soil conditions. Therefore, we have assessed the threshold inoculum level(s), estimated the yield and protein losses caused by PCN, and evaluated eco-friendly management option(s) with botanicals (neem cake, neem seed powder) and a microbial agent (Trichoderma harzianum). The results revealed a gradual and significant decline in crop growth parameters as the inoculum levels increased from 0 to 3000 juveniles (J2s)(2 kg soils). The severity of PCN infestation was notably higher in alluvial soils compared to lighter soils, exhibiting higher cyst counts (+63%) in plant roots. The threshold inoculum level(s) causing a 25% reduction in various agronomic parameters was significantly lower in alluvial soil(176–1262 J2s; mean = 921) compared to light soil (720–1444 J2s, mean = 1308), indicating that alluvial soil conditions favored increased PCN infestation over light soils, leading to more substantial growth inhibition. Strong positive correlations were found between initial inoculum levels and final populations of PCN. Inoculum levels ranging from 90 to 120 thousand J2s (representing 45–60 J2s per 100 cc soils) resulted in yield losses of 26–78% (p < 0.001). Additionally, there was a corresponding decrease in grain protein content by 9–22% (p < 0.01), subsequently reducing protein productivity by 11–83% (p < 0.001). In the PCN management experiment, among the different bio-organic components, neem cake at 1.0 t ha−1 exhibited the highest efficacy against PCN at crop harvest stage, leading to significant improvements in both dry shoot weight (4.3 g) and dry root weight (1.0 g)/plant compared to the inoculated check. Also, neem seed powder (at 0.1 t ha−1) and T. harzianum + farmyard manure (1 kg in 100 kg farmyard manure ha−1) showed increased effectiveness against the nematode. This study emphasizes the substantial influence of nematode infection on crop performance, particularly in alluvial soils, resulting in significant losses in both yield and protein content. Neem cake emerges as a promising eco-friendly management for managing the PCN in black gram.

Genome-Wide Association Studies Reveal That the Abietane Diterpene Isopimaric Acid Promotes Rice Growth through Inhibition of Defense Pathways.

Plants are an important source for the discovery of novel natural growth regulators. We used activity screening to demonstrate that treatment of Nipponbare seeds with 25 μg/mL isopimaric acid significantly increased the resulting shoot length, root length, and shoot weight of rice seedlings by 11.37 ± 5.05%, 12.96 ± 7.63%, and 27.98 ± 10.88% and that it has a higher activity than Gibberellin A3 (GA3) at the same concentration. A total of 213 inbred lines of different rice lineages were screened, and we found that isopimaric acid had different growth promotional activities on rice seedlings of different varieties. After induction with 25 μg/mL isopimaric acid, 15.02% of the rice varieties tested showed increased growth, while 15.96% of the varieties showed decreased growth; the growth of the remaining 69.02% did not show any significant change from the control. In the rice varieties showing an increase in growth, the shoot length and shoot weight significantly increased, accounting for 21.88% and 31.25%. The root length and weight significantly increased, accounting for 6.25% and 3.13%. Using genome-wide association studies (GWASs), linkage disequilibrium block, and gene haplotype significance analysis, we identified single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) signals that were significantly associated with the length and weight of shoots on chromosomes 2 and 8, respectively. After that, we obtained 17 candidate genes related to the length of shoots and 4 candidate genes related to the weight of shoots. Finally, from the gene annotation data and gene tissue-specific expression; two genes related to this isopimaric acid regulation phenotype were identified as OsASC1 (LOC_Os02g37080) on chromosome 2 and OsBUD13 (LOC_Os08g08080) on chromosome 8. Subcellular localization analysis indicated that OsASC1 was expressed in the plasma membrane and the nuclear membrane, while OsBUD13 was expressed in the nucleus. Further RT-qPCR analysis showed that the relative expression levels of the resistance gene OsASC1 and the antibody protein gene OsBUD13 decreased significantly following treatment with 25 μg/mL isopimaric acid. These results suggest that isopimaric acid may inhibit defense pathways in order to promote the growth of rice seedlings.

Deltamethrin's Effect on Nitrogen-Fixing Nodules in Medicago truncatula.

Deltamethrin is used against plant pests (e.g., mites and ants) and, in farm animals, against biting insects because of its acaricidal and repellent effects against ticks, thus protecting the sheep and cattle from the transmission of pathogens. However, its impact on the environment still needs to be fully evaluated. This study evaluates the impact of this pyrethroid on the nitrogen-fixing nodules in Medicago truncatula, a model legume. This research compares nodular biomass and root weight between a deltamethrin-treated section and an untreated control section of this legume. Our results indicate a significant reduction in the biomass of nitrogen-fixing nodules in the treated grove, suggesting that deltamethrin negatively affects the symbiotic relationship between M. truncatula and nitrogen-fixing bacteria. This reduction in nodule formation can impair soil fertility and plant growth, highlighting an ecological risk associated with pyrethroid's use in livestock farming. These findings underscore the need for a shift towards Green Veterinary Pharmacology (GVP), which promotes environmentally sustainable practices in managing livestock health. By minimizing our reliance on harmful chemical treatments, GVP offers viable solutions to protect and enhance ecosystem services such as biological nitrogen fixation that are essential for maintaining soil health and agricultural productivity.

MicroRNAs Participate in Morphological Acclimation of Sugar Beet Roots to Nitrogen Deficiency.

Nitrogen (N) is essential for sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.), a highly N-demanding sugar crop. This study investigated the morphological, subcellular, and microRNA-regulated responses of sugar beet roots to low N (LN) stress (0.5 mmol/L N) to better understand the N perception, uptake, and utilization in this species. The results showed that LN led to decreased dry weight of roots, N accumulation, and N dry matter production efficiency, along with damage to cell walls and membranes and a reduction in organelle numbers (particularly mitochondria). Meanwhile, there was an increase in root length (7.2%) and branch numbers (29.2%) and a decrease in root surface area (6.14%) and root volume (6.23%) in sugar beet after 7 d of LN exposure compared to the control (5 mmol/L N). Transcriptomics analysis was confirmed by qRT-PCR for 6 randomly selected microRNAs, and we identified 22 differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs) in beet root under LN treatment. They were primarily enriched in functions related to binding (1125), ion binding (641), intracellular (437) and intracellular parts (428), and organelles (350) and associated with starch and sucrose metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, and isoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis, as indicated by the GO and KEGG analyses. Among them, the upregulated miR156a, with conserved sequences, was identified as a key DEM that potentially targets and regulates squamosa promoter-binding-like proteins (SPLs, 104889216 and 104897537) through the microRNA-mRNA network. Overexpression of miR156a (MIR) promoted root growth in transgenic Arabidopsis, increasing the length, surface area, and volume. In contrast, silencing miR156a (STTM) had the opposite effect. Notably, the fresh root weight decreased by 45.6% in STTM lines, while it increased by 27.4% in MIR lines, compared to the wild type (WT). It can be inferred that microRNAs, especially miR156, play crucial roles in sugar beet root's development and acclimation to LN conditions. They likely facilitate active responses to N deficiency through network regulation, enabling beet roots to take up nutrients from the environment and sustain their vital life processes.

Enhancing chromium resistance and bulb quality in onion (Allium cepa L.) through copper nanoparticles and possible health risk

Chromium (Cr) is a toxic metal in soil–plant system, hence causing possible health risks prominently in the areas with forgoing industrial activities. Copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) have been reported as an excellent adsorbent for pollutants. Therefore, this study investigates how copper nanoparticles enhance onion growth while decreasing chromium uptake in onion plants. Additionally, it examines the potential health risks of consuming onion plants with elevated chromium levels. The results demonstrated that the addition of CuNPs at 15 mg kg−1 significantly improved the plant height (48%), leaf length (37%), fresh weight of root (61%), root dry weight (70%), fresh weight of bulb (52%), bulb dry weight (59%), leaves fresh weight (52%) and dry weight of leaves (59%), leaf area (72%), number of onion leaves per plant (60%), Chl. a (42%), chl. b (36%), carotenoids (40%), total chlorophyll (40%), chlorophyll contents SPAD value (56%), relative water contents (35%), membrane stability index (16%), total sugars (25%), crude protein (21%), ascorbic acid (19%) and ash contents (64%) at 10 mg kg−1 Cr. Whereas, maximum decline of Cr by 46% in roots, 68% in leaves and 92% in bulb was found with application of 15 mg kg−1 of Cu NPs in onion plants under 10 mg kg−1 Cr toxicity. The health risk assessment parameters of onion plants showed minimum values 0.0028 for average daily intake (ADI), 0.001911 for Non-cancer risk (NCR), and 0.001433 for cancer risk (CR) in plants treated with Cu NPs at 15 mg kg−1 concentration grown in soil spiked with 10 mg kg−1 chromium. It is concluded that Cu NPs at 15 mg kg−1 concentration improved growth of plants in control as well as Cr contaminated soil. Therefore, use of Cu NPs at 15 mg kg−1 concentration is recommended for improving growth of plants under normal and metal contaminated soils.

Effect of bio-fertilizers and seaweed extract on growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under different irrigation regimes: Two-year field study

Wheat productivity is constrained by genetic, agronomic, and climate factors, though it is an important crop for food production worldwide. The present study evaluated the effect of bio-fertilizer consortia and seaweed extracts on the growth and yield of two wheat varieties under different irrigation regimes in a field study. This experiment was conducted in a split-split plot based on a randomized complete block design with four replications in 2018 and 2019. Irrigation treatments were the main factor, wheat variety (Sardari and Sirvan) the sub-factor, and bio-fertilizers the sub-sub-factors. The results showed that irrigation regimes significantly improved leaf width, number of leaves, fresh weight of roots and shoots, osmotic potential, leaf water content, and number of stomata respectively by 57.53, 38.59, 106.65, 135.29, 87.92, 14.22 and 13.77, 88.02 and 96.11 percent compared to dry-land conditions. Applying one- and two-times irrigation increased grain yield by 51% and 79%, respectively, and the response varied in wheat varieties. Sardari variety due to having smaller leaf dimensions (Leaf length and width) and lower fresh and dry weight of roots and shoots, as well as lower leaf and tissue water content, had lower grain yield than the Sirvan variety. All the bio-fertilizers positively impacted the growth and yield of both varieties. However, the highest average grain yield in the first and second years of the experiment (with an average of 5226.25 and 4923.33 kg/ha, respectively) were found under the combined application of Mycorrhiza + Nitrozist and Phosphozist + Seaweed extract. The results of the present study underscore the importance of irrigation regimes and consortia of bio-fertilizers for improving grain yield. This study also highlighted the resilience of the studied wheat varieties and bio-fertilizers to projected climate changes. These findings could provide insights into adaptive strategies for mitigating the impact of climate change on wheat production.

Enhancing growth and phytoremediation efficiency of Pennisetum purpureum cv. Mahasarakham in weathered PAH-contaminated soil through thidiazuron application

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are phytotoxic, which can limit their phytoremediation. When the ability of plants to phytoremediation PAHs is compromised, the application of plant growth regulators can enhance the growth of the plants. This study aimed to determine the best plant growth regulator (1-naphthalene acetic acid, 6-benzyladenine, or thidiazuron) to enhance the phytoremediation ability of sweet grass (Pennisetum purpureum cv. Mahasarakham) when grown in weather PAH-contaminated soil. In a greenhouse study, 0.01 mg/l thidiazuron resulted in the highest growth of sweet grass when compared to the other tested plant growth regulators (dry shoot weight 24.11 ± 1.28 g and dry root weight 0.70 ± 0.02 g). Sweet grass was grown in soil contaminated with PAH, which demonstrated the toxicity to sweet grass by reducing the total chlorophyll (1.01 µg/g fresh weight) and carotenoid (0.28 µg/g fresh weight) contents with proline increased (6.63 µg/g fresh weight). Meanwhile, total chlorophyll, carotenoid, and proline content in leaves of sweet grass grown in non-contaminated soil were 1.68, 0.44, and 5.23 µg/g fresh weight, respectively. When sweet grass was used to phytoremediate PAHs, there were reductions in acenaphthylene (4.69 ± 0.50%), acenaphthene (10.69 ± 1.47%), and phenanthrene (3.61 ± 0.07%), which compared to levels of over 30% in non-planted soil. For the three PAHs, the bioconcentration factors were 1.6 to 2.4, but the translocation factors were below 1, showing limited movement to the aerial parts of the plant, thereby suggesting that the main mechanism is rhizoremediation. Sweet grass is an excellent candidate for PAH remediation, especially when thidiazuron is applied to relieve plant stress.

Effects of different water stresses under subsurface infiltration irrigation on eggplant growth and water productivity

Soil moisture deficiency limits eggplant growth and affects the yield and quality. Identifying an appropriate deficit irrigation strategy to enhance irrigation water productivity is an urgent task. Additionally, the dynamic response of eggplants to water stress at various phenological stages needs further clarification. In this study, eggplants were used as experimental materials, with field capacity (FC) (Senyigit et al.) serving as the irrigation standard. Two levels of deficit irrigation treatments (60 % FC and 50 % FC) were applied at three key phenological stages of eggplant (seedling stage, flowering and fruiting, and prime fruit stage). A randomized block design was used with non-deficit irrigation (80 % FC) during the phenological stages as the control (W1), resulting in seven treatments, each with three replicates. The results showed that at the same phenological stage, plant height, stem diameter, leaf area index (LAI), dry matter accumulation, total fresh root weight, total root length, total root surface area, and total root volume decreased as the irrigation threshold was lowered. The content of vitamin C, soluble sugars, souble proteins, and crude fiber increased as the irrigation threshold decreased. Leaf photosynthetic parameters (photosynthetic rate (Pn), transpiration rate (Tr), stomatal conductance (Gs), and intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci)) were positively correlated with the irrigation threshold. The W1 treatment had the highest yield (89.1 t·ha−1 in 2018; 88.8 t·ha−1 in 2019), followed by the W2 treatment (86.1 t·ha−1 in 2018; 85.6 t·ha−1 in 2019). Water deficit during the prime fruit stage (W6, W7) had the most significant impact on yield. W1 had the highest water productivity (19.4 kg·m−3 in 2018; 19.2 kg·m−3 in 2019), with no significant difference from W2 (19.4 kg·m−3 in 2018; 19.0 kg·m−3 in 2019). Using the Jensen function, the water sensitivity of eggplants at different phenological stages was ranked as follows:prime fruit stage > flowering and fruiting stage > seedling stage. Path analysis indicated that dry matter accumulation, single fruit weight, and single plant yield were important indicators affecting yield. Considering irrigation amount, eggplant growth, fruit yield and quality, and water productivity, the optimal deficit irrigation thresholds for eggplants in arid regions are determined to be 60 % FC during the seedling stage, 60 % FC during the flowering and fruiting stage, and 80 % FC during the prime fruit stage. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for precision agricultural irrigation practices.

Efficacy of Fe-BC in enhancing growth, photosynthesis, nutrition, and alleviating the toxicity of Cd and Cr in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.): A tool for managing the environment and attaining sustainable agriculture

Soil contamination with cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr) pose serious threats to food safety and ecosystem stability. In current study, pristine biochar (BC) and iron-modified biochar (Fe-BC) were prepared, and the potential of BC and Fe-BC to reduce the bioavailability of Cd and Cr in soil, their uptake, toxicity in rapeseed (Brassica napus L) and the mechanisms involved were examined. In a pot experiment varying levels of BC and Fe-BC were applied to Cd and Cr-contaminated soil. The results indicated that soil supplementation with the highest level of Fe-BC (2 %) incremented the dry weights of roots, shoots, and seeds by 65 %, 33 %, and 149 %, respectively. Additionally, Fe-BC (2 %) treated rapeseed plants showed highest increase in photosynthesis, transpiration, stomatal conductance, intercellular CO2 emissions, and chlorophyll contents by 43.2 %, 39.5 %, 33.5, 36.9 % and 28 %, respectively. Plants treated with Fe-BC (2 %) showed amplified superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities. The results regarding saturated and unsaturated fatty acid contents of seeds showed that Fe-BC (2 %) treatment exhibited the greatest increase in linolenic acid, oleic acid, erucic acid, and linoleic acid contents, increasing these acids by 21 %, 6.5 %, 53 %, and 14.5 %, respectively. Moreover, Fe-BC (2 %) treated seeds depicted increased oil and protein contents by 14 % and 29 %, respectively. Soil application of Fe-BC (2 %) dramatically decreased Cd and Cr levels in the roots, shoots, and seeds by 21 %, 44 %, 88 %, 16 %, 38 %, and 57 %, respectively. The addition of Fe-BC significantly lowered the concentration of exchangeable (Exc) and bound to carbonate (B-C) fractions of Cd and Cr in the soil, while increasing that of iron-manganese (B-Fe-Mn) bounded and residual (Res) fractions. In conclusion, soil application of the Fe-BC amendment could be used as a sustainable approach to reduce the ecological and environmental risks associated with soils contaminated with Cd and Cr, and ensure safer crop production.

Comparison of Festuca glauca 'Uchte' and Festuca amethystina 'Walberla' Varieties in a Simulated Extensive Roof Garden Environment.

One of the most effective means of increasing urban green areas is the establishment of roof gardens. They have many positive properties and ecological functions, such as filling empty spaces with plants, protecting buildings, dust retention and air cleaning. In the case of extensive constructions, mostly Sedum species are used, planted as carpet-like "grass" sods or by installing modular units as plugs; however, with the use of other plant genera, the efficiency of ecological services could be increased by expanding the diversity. Festuca taxa have good drought resistance, and these plants tolerate temperature alterations well. Their application would increase the biodiversity, quality and decorative value of roof gardens. Experiments were carried out on nursery benches imitating a roof garden, with the use of modular elements intended for Sedum species, which facilitate the establishment of green roofs. In our trial, varieties of two European native species, Festuca glauca Vill. 'Uchte' and F. amethystina L. 'Walberla', were investigated. In order to find and determine the differences between the cultivars and the effects of the media (leaf mold and rhyolite tuff), we drew inferences after morphological (height, circumference, root weight, fresh and dry weight) and physiological tests (peroxidase and proline enzyme activity). We concluded that F. glauca 'Uchte' is recommended for roof garden conditions, planted in modular elements. Although the specimens were smaller in the medium containing fewer organic components than in the version with larger amounts, they were less exposed to the effects of drought stress. This can be a key factor for survival in extreme roof gardens or even urban conditions for all plants.

Effects of climate change and deep fertilization on the growth and yield of winter wheat in the Loess Plateau of China.

Global temperature is projected to rise continuously under climate change, negatively impacting the growth and yield of winter wheat. Optimizing traditional agricultural measures is necessary to mitigate potential winter wheat yield losses caused by future climate change. This study aims to explore the variations in winter wheat growth and yield on the Loess Plateau of China under future climate change, identify the key meteorological factors affecting winter wheat growth and yield, and analyze the differences in winter wheat yield and root characteristics under different fertilization depths. Meteorological data from 20 General Circulation Models were applied to drive the Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer model, simulating the future growth characteristics of winter wheat under various fertilization depths. The Random Forest model was used to determine the relative importance of meteorological factors influencing winter wheat yield, root length density and leaf area index. The results showed that temperature and high emission concentration were primary factors influencing crop yield under future climate change. The temperature increase projected from 2021 to 2100 would be anticipated to shorten the phenology period of winter wheat by 2-16 days and reduce grain yield by 2.9-12.7% compared to the period from 1981 to 2020. Conversely, the root length density and root weight of winter wheat would increase by 1.2-10.9% and 0.2-24.1%, respectively, in the future, and excessive allocation of root system resources was identified as a key factor contributing to the reduction in winter wheat yield. Compared with the shallow fertilization treatment (N5), the deep fertilization treatments (N15 and N25) increased the proportion of roots in the deep soil layer (30-60 cm) by 2.7-10.2%. Because of the improvement in root structure, the decline in winter wheat yield under deep fertilization treatments in the future is expected to be reduced by 1.2% to 6.5%, whereas water use efficiency increases by 1.1% to 2.4% compared to the shallow fertilization treatment. The deep fertilization treatment can enhance the root structure of winter wheat and increase the proportion of roots in the deep soil layer, thereby effectively mitigating the decline in winter wheat yield under future climate change. Overall, optimizing fertilization depth effectively addresses the reduced winter wheat yield risks and agricultural production challenges under future climate change. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Efficacy of nano-silicon extracted from rice husk to modulate the physio-biochemical constituents of wheat for ameliorating drought tolerance without causing cytotoxicity

BackgroundAbiotic stresses, like drought, are the major cause of shrinking plant, growth crop yields and quality. Nanotechnology has provided a significant improvement in increasing plant growth and yield of crops under stress conditions. This work assessed the potential of silicon for mitigating the negative effects of drought against wheat. In completely randomized design with three replicates, wheat seedlings grown under three watering levels (100, 60 and 40% of water holding capacity) were treated by silicon dioxide (SiO2) as a normal or bulk form (Si) and SiO2 nanoparticles (SiNPs) with concentrations of 100 and 200 mg L−1. SiNPs was extracted from rice husk.ResultsSi and SiNPs treatments are shown to improve the growth of plants and increase the shoots and root weight, relative water content, photosynthetic pigments, and proline in wheat. SiO2 either normal or nanoparticles at 100 mg L−1 decreased lipid peroxidation as malondialdehyde was reduced. Also, nano-silicon increased free amino acids, antioxidant enzymes while decreased soluble sugars. Cytotoxicity assay proved the safety of nano-silicon usage.ConclusionsIn conclusion, the present study documented the significance of rice husk-extracted nano-silicon at rate of 100 mg L−1 for improving growth and increasing tolerance to drought in wheat grown under water deficit.

Reproductive strategies in the persistence of polymorph clover, an amphicarpic species

Amphicarpic plants produce aerial and subterranean fruits on the same plant. Trifolium polymorphum Poir. is an amphicarpic legume that also reproduces vegetatively by regrowing storage roots. Because of this, resource allocation information for different reproductive strategies is of great interest. In this study, the production of aerial and subterranean seeds and storage roots was evaluated in populations of T. polymorphum. The Pinheiro Machado and Eldorado do Sul populations produced on average the highest (165.50) and lowest (61.87) number of inflorescences per plant, respectively. Total aerial seed production did not differ between populations. Aerial flowers produced more seeds than subterranean flowers. There were positive correlations between number of inflorescences and total aerial seeds (r = 0.73), the number of subterranean legumes and total subterranean seeds (0.94) and between number and weight of storage roots (r = 0.83). Amphicarpy associated with vegetative reproduction is an important strategy for the persistence and increase frequency of T. polymorphum in the natural pastures of the Rio Grande do Sul, where intense grazing and trampling can destroy periodically the aerial part of the plants.

Moderate Drought Stress Interferes with the Physiological State and Promotes the Accumulation of Isoflavone in Reproductive Iris domestica Rhizomes

Drought stress is one of the main factors affecting the growth and secondary metabolism of plants. Iris domestica, rich in isoflavones, is a common herbal medicine in China. In this study, the effects of drought stress and rehydration on resistance physiological characteristics and the secondary metabolism of two-year-old I. domestica during the vegetative and reproductive growth period were investigated. The results showed that the dry weight and fresh weight of rhizomes and roots under severe drought stress were significantly decreased, while those under moderate drought stress were not significantly changed. Meanwhile, the SOD activities, POD activities, MDA content and Pro content increased to resist drought at D1 and D2. In the vegetative growth period, the changes in isoflavone concentration and the expression levels of genes in isoflavone synthesis were more dramatic. Isoflavone accumulation was promoted, to some extent, in the reproductive growth period under the D1 drought treatment. In the actual production process, different measures, namely short-term stress regulation in the vegetative growth period and moderate drought stress (13.44% &lt; soil water content ≤ 16.8%) in the reproductive growth period, need to be adopted to regulate isoflavone biosynthesis.

Host status of cover crops for the management of Meloidogyne izalcoensis in coffee orchards infested with root-knot nematodes

Summary The root-knot nematode Meloidogyne izalcoensis was described parasitising coffee trees and causing damage in the Izalco volcano region, Sonsonate, El Salvador. In Brazil, it was detected in coffee roots in the municipality of Indianópolis, Minas Gerais state (MG). Intercropping cover crops is a traditional practice in Brazilian coffee orchards, and the use of plants that are non-hosts or antagonistic to the nematodes is a very promising strategy for coffee in infested areas. Due to the scarce information on the host status of M. izalcoensis, the aim of this study was to evaluate 24 plants of different species of cover crops and select the non-hosts or poor hosts. Two assays were conducted at different times, and all plants were inoculated with 10 000 eggs. After 90 days, the following parameters were determined: fresh root weight, reproduction factor (RF) and final reaction. Plants with RF &lt; 1.0 were classified as non-hosts (NH), those with RF &gt; 1.0 were classified as hosts and using statistical analyses as: good host (GH), intermediate host (IH) and poor host (PH). Most of the botanical species tested were classified as NH or PH to M. izalcoensis: cotton, rice, white oat, black oat, ryegrass, corn, three species of grass, two cultivars of millet, two wheat cultivars, Crotalaria breviflora, C. ochroleuca, C. spectabilis, jack bean, gray mucuna bean and two species of rice grass. Only tomato and bean were classified as GH, and C. juncea and soybean were classified as IH. The plants identified as non-hosts or poor hosts can be recommended for intercropping or for crop rotation in Brazilian coffee orchards in regions infested by M. izalcoensis.

Productivity and economics of carrot (Daucus carota) as influenced by interactive effect of potassium and micronutrients

Deficiency and insufficient nutrients application are the major factor responsible to reduced carrot root yield. Nutrients in balanced amount are critical aspect for getting optimal root yield for a particular agro-climatic condition. An appropriate nutrient management including potassium and micronutrients might rise and improve the productivity of carrot. The experiment was conducted at Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner, Jaipur, Rajasthan to study the effect of variable potassium and micronutrients formulations on performance of carrot. Results were found to be significant for the yield attributes, yield and economics of carrot. Soil application of potassium (MOP) @150 kg/ ha significantly enhanced the average root weight (189.3 g), root diameter (3.7 cm), shoot: root ratio (0.5), edible root length (23.7 cm), root yield (28.3 t/ha), net returns (₹205161/ha) and B:C ratio (2.7) of carrot. Among the micronutrients formulations, significantly higher average root weight (182.8 g), root diameter (3.7 cm), shoot: root ratio (0.5), edible root length (24.2 cm), root yield (27.8 t/ha), net returns (₹202576/ha) and B:C ratio (2.7) were noticed in foliar application of ZnSO4 @0.5%. Results of interaction shown that soil application of potassium (MOP) @150 kg/ha and ZnSO4 @0.5% significantly better in the average root weight (209.6 g), root yield (31.4 t/ha), net returns (₹2,35,918/ha) and B:C ratio (3.03).

Genetic variability and divergence studies to identify and isolate superior genotypes from European radish (Raphanus sativus) germplasm

The present study was carried during the winter (rabi) seasons of 2019–20 and 2020–21 at Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh to identify and isolate superior genotypes from European radish (Raphanus sativus L.) germplasm. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) comprising of 25 genotypes with three replications. These genotypes were evaluated for various horticultural and yield contributing traits, using the popular check cultivar Pusa Himani as a reference. The combined data from two years revealed significant differences among all the genotypes for the studied traits. Notably, genotypes UHF-SOL-RAD-3, UHF-SOL-RAD-1 and RKR-Sel-III exhibited higher yields compared to the check variety and performed well across most traits. The root top ratio demonstrated the highest phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variability (34.79% and 34.64%, respectively). Traits such as total soluble solids (TSS), average root weight, root yield, gross plant weight, root top ratio (length basis), and root length exhibited moderate to high heritability along with moderate genetic advances. Based on Mahalanobis D2 statistics, five clusters were identified, with a majority of genotypes falling into cluster II. Cluster III displayed the highest intra-cluster similarity (51.18%), while clusters I, III, and V demonstrated greater diversity, thereby increasing the likelihood of obtaining favourable transgressive segregants through hybridization between genotypes in these clusters.

Co-application of titanium dioxide and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles modulated chromium and salinity stress via modifying physio-biochemical attributes in Solidago canadensis L.

Climate change and human activity have led to an increase in salinity levels and the toxicity of chromium (Cr). One promising approach to modifying these stressors in plants is to use effective nanoparticles (NPs). While titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) and hydroxyapatite (HAP NPs) have been demonstrated to increase plant tolerance to abiotic stress by enhancing antioxidant capacity, lipid peroxidation, and secondary metabolites, it is unknown how these two compounds can work together in situations when salt and Cr toxicity are present. The objective of the current study was to determine the effects of foliar-applied TiO2 NPs (15mgL-1) and HAP NPs (250mgL-1) separately and in combination on growth, chlorophyll (Chl), water content, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant capacity, phenolic content, and essential oils (EOs) of Solidago canadensis L. under salinity (100mM NaCl) and Cr toxicity (100mgkg-1 soil). Salinity was more deleterious than Cr by decreasing plant weight, Chl a + b, relative water content (RWC), EO yield, and increasing malondialdehyde (MDA), electrolyte leakage (EL), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and catalase (CAT) activity. The co-application of TiO2 and HAP NPs proved to be more successful. This was evidenced by the increased shoot weight (36%), root weight (29%), Chl a + b (23%), RWC (15%), total phenolic content (TPC, 34%), total flavonoid content (TFC, 28%), and EO yield (56%), but decreased MDA (21%), EL (11%), SOD (22%) and CAT activity (38%) in salt-exposed plants. The study demonstrated the effective strategy of co-applying these NPs to modify abiotic stress by enhancing phenolic compounds and EO yield as key results.

The Effect Of Casgot Fertilizer On The Growth Of Cucumber Plants

Regular use of organic fertilizer can improve soil health, reduce erosion, and increase agricultural sustainability by reducing dependence on synthetic chemicals. Kasgot fertilizer or used maggot fertilizer is a type of organic fertilizer produced from maggot droppings (larva lalat Black Soldier Fly) after they decompose organic waste. This fertilizer is rich in essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, and contains various beneficial microorganisms that help increase soil fertility. This research aims to determine the effect of cassava fertilizer on the growth of cucumber plants (Cucumis sativus L.).This study used non-factorial RAK with 4 administration dose levels, namely: M0= 0 grams/planting hole, M1= 5 grams/planting hole, M2= 10 grams/planting hole and M3= 20 grams/planting hole. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance tests on the parameters of plant height, number of leaves and root weight. The results of the research showed that the parameters of plant height and number of leaves showed significant differences between plants aged 2 WAP and 4 WAP, while root weight did not have a significant difference between treatments and each replication. Additional doses or other organic materials are needed to increase the macro nutrients available in the soil.

Production and evaluation of new microbic strains on zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) plants and control of Powdery mildew and Cladosporiosis

Research objective: The main objective of this article is to report the results obtained from the use of new microbial strains on vegetable plants. In particular, the article will deal with two important topics: i) the study of the effect of microorganisms on the biomass of vegetable plants; ii) the possible control of mortality due to diseases such as powdery mildew and Cladosporiosis. The information reported in this research work can support the design of cropping systems in which agricultural sustainability is fundamental due to the presence of microorganisms with biostimulating activity and as a possible alternative to synthetic plant protection products. Materials and Methods: The plants were grown in pots under controlled conditions; 30 seedlings per thesis, divided into 3 replications of 10 plants each, were planted in early February 2024. The plants used in the trial were Cucurbita pepo L.. The six experimental groups in cultivation were: i) group without microorganisms, irrigated with water and previously fertilised substrate; ii) group with Paecilomyces lilacinus, irrigated with water and previously fertilised substrate, (4.5 x 106 spores/ml), 5ml of product sprayed per kg of substrate; iii) group with Azospirillum sp., irrigated with water and previously fertilised substrate, (4 x 108 spores/g), 1g of mixed product per kg of substrate; iv) group with Glomus sp., irrigated with water and previously fertilised substrate, (3 x 109 spores/g), 1g of mixed product per kg of substrate; v) group with Trichoderma viride, irrigated with water and previously fertilised substrate, (3.6 x 108 spores/ml), 5ml of product sprayed per kg of substrate; vi) group with mix Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas sp. and Trichoderma viride, irrigated with water and previously fertilised substrate, (2.3 x 108 spores/ml) 5 ml of product sprayed per kg of substrate. On 5 June 2024, plant height, number of leaves, total leaf area per plant (mm2), primary root length (mm), biomass of the aerial and root system, number and weight of fruits, flowers number and the number of plants dead from powdery mildew and cladosporiosis attacks were recorded. Results and Discussion: The experiment showed that the use of of different types of probiotic and plant defence microorganisms can indeed significantly improve the vegetative and root growth of Cucurbita pepo L.. All treatments showed a significant improvement over the untreated control for the agronomic parameters analysed. The Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas sp. and Trichoderma viride treatment with a mix of microorganisms was significantly the best in terms of increasing vegetative and root biomass. Improvements were also found in plant height, number of leaves, leaf area and root length. In addition, significant effects were found on the number of flowers and fruits as well as fruit weight. The trial also revealed the significant effect of the products on the control of powdery mildew and Cladosporiosis, in which case the product PL (Paecilomyces lilacinus) was the best on the two diseases. Conclusions: Experiments have shown that the use of microorganisms can significantly improve the growth, vegetative and root biomass of Cucurbita pepo L.. The treatment also offers increased resistance to mortality that can occur in nursery cultivation. A variety of horticultural and ornamental species have already been tested with microorganisms in previous trials, which highlight other interesting and innovative aspects of the use of microorganisms. Due to the importance of using microbial inoculums in plants, the new agricultural experiments are extremely important as they may allow the development of new products for organic and sustainable farming systems and lead to better results.