Root Weight Research Articles

Synergistic application of Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense and Trichoderma species improves tolerance of cowpea to aluminum stress by enhancing the antioxidant defense system

The positive effects of Trichoderma on the antioxidant responses of nodulated cowpea plants under aluminum (Al) stress are not well documented. This study aims to evaluate the effects of different microbial consortia of Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense (bradyrhizobia) and Trichoderma species (T. asperelloides T02, T. asperellum T77, or T. harzianum T78) on the growth and antioxidant responses of cowpea under Al stress. Coinoculation with Bradyrhizobia and Trichoderma resulted in greater growth (plant height and root length) and biomass (dry weight of shoots and roots) compared to single inoculations. The dual application of bradyrhizobia and T. asperellum T77 to Al-treated plants increased chlorophyll-a (36 %), chlorophyll-b (210 %), and carotenoid (92 %) contents. Under Al stress, plants inoculated with bradyrhizobia exhibited a 53 % increase in anthocyanin content compared to the unstressed control. The highest levels of reduced ascorbate and ascorbate redox state were observed in plants coinoculated with bradyrhizobia and Trichoderma, whereas oxidized ascorbate accumulated more in plants with single inoculations (bradyrhizobia or Trichoderma). Lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide levels were 50 % lower in plants coinoculated with bradyrhizobia and Trichoderma. Additionally, these plants showed increased activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and peroxidases under Al stress, particularly in those coinoculated with bradyrhizobia and T. asperelloides T02 and T. harzianum T78. Our results confirm that the presence of bradyrhizobia and Trichoderma in the cowpea rhizosphere mitigates oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species under Al stress and positively influences cowpea growth and development under stressful conditions.

Exploring morphological diversity in carrot (Daucus carota l.) germplasm: A multivariate analysis approach

This study looks at how quantitative parameter variation changes over two years in different carrot accessions and the genetic diversity that exists in a group of accessions that come from different parts of the world. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to assess the significance of different factors, including the block effect, treatment effect, and check effect. The result indicated a significant mean sum of squares across various sources of variation. Both adjusted and unadjusted block and treatment effects were significant for all traits, while the check effect was significant for more. During both years, there was moderate to high variation in quantitative parameters for numerous quantitative traits among carrot accessions. Mature leaf length showed the highest variation, followed by mature leaf width, leaf area, root weight, leaf weight, and plant biomass. Principal component analysis revealed distinct patterns in the contributions of parameters during both years. Plotting carrot accessions on the scatter plot using the first three principal components also revealed an informative spread of accessions. A notable increase in variation during the second year was observed. Moreover, accessions from different continents displayed varying degrees of genetic diversity, with Asian accessions exhibiting the highest levels. These findings underscore the importance of global germplasm collection in breeding programs aimed at enhancing crop resilience and productivity. Leveraging this genetic diversity through advanced breeding strategies holds promise for developing cultivars capable of adapting to changing environmental conditions and meeting the demands of sustainable agriculture.

Foliar-applied melatonin and titanium nanoparticles modulate cadmium (Cd) toxicity through minimizing Cd accumulation and optimizing physiological and biochemical properties in sage (Salvia officinalis L.).

Notwithstanding the fact that melatonin (MT) and titanium nanoparticles (Ti NPs) alone have been widely used recently to modulate cadmium (Cd) stress in plants, there is a gap in the comparative impacts of these materials on lowering Cd toxicity in sage plants. The objective of this study was to determine how foliar application of MT and Ti NPs affected the growth, Cd accumulation, photosynthesis, water content, lipid peroxidation, and essential oil (EO) quality and quantity of sage plants in Cd-contaminated soils. A factorial experiment was conducted using MT at 100 and 200μM and Ti NPs at 50 and 100mg L-1 topically, together with Cd toxicity at 10 and 20mg Cd kg-1 soil. The results showed that Cd toxicity decreased plant growth and enhanced lipid peroxidation. The Cd stress at 20mgkg-1 soil resulted in increases in Cd root (693%), Cd shoot (429%), electrolyte leakage (EL, 29%), malondialdehyde (MDA, 72%), shoot weight (31%), root weight (27%), chlorophyll (Chl) a + b (26%), relative water content (RWC, 23%), and EO yield (30%). The application of MT and Ti NPs controlled drought stress by reducing MDA and EL, enhancing plant weight, Chl, RWC, and EO production, and minimizing Cd accumulation in plant tissues. The predominant compounds in the EO were α-thujone, 1,8-cineole, β-thujone, camphor, and α-humulene. MT and Ti NPs caused α-thujone to rise, whereas Cd stress caused it to fall. Based on heat map analysis, MDA was the trait that was most sensitive to treatments. In summary, the research emphasizes the possibility of MT and Ti NPs, particularly MT at 200μM, to mitigate Cd toxicity in sage plants and enhance their biochemical reactions.

Interactive effects of ammonium sulfate and lead on alfalfa in rare earth tailings: Physiological responses and toxicity thresholds

Ion-adsorption rare earth ore contains significant levels of leaching agents and heavy metals, leading to substantial co-contamination. This presents significant challenges for ecological rehabilitation, yet there is limited understanding of the toxicity thresholds associated with the co-contamination of ammonium sulfate (AS) and lead (Pb) on pioneer plants. Here, we investigated the toxicity thresholds of various aspects of alfalfa, including growth, ultrastructural changes, metabolism, antioxidant system response, and Pb accumulation. The results indicated that the co-contamination of AS-Pb decreased the dry weight of shoot and root by 26 %–77 % and 18 %–92 %, respectively, leading to irregular root cell morphology and nucleus disintegration. The high concentration and combined exposures to AS and Pb induced oxidative stress on alfalfa, which stimulated the defense of the antioxidative system and resulted in an increase in proline levels and a decrease in soluble sugars. Structural equation modeling analysis and integrated biomarker response elucidated that the soluble sugars, proline, and POD were the key physiological indicators of alfalfa under stresses and indicated that co-exposure induced more severe oxidative stress in alfalfa. The toxicity thresholds under single exposure were 496 (EC5), 566 (EC10), 719 (EC25), 940 (EC50) mg kg−1 for AS and 505 (EC5), 539 (EC10), 605 (EC25), 678 (EC50) mg kg−1 for Pb. This study showed that AS-Pb pollution notably influenced plant growth performance and had negative impacts on the growth processes, metabolite levels, and the antioxidant system in plants. Our findings contribute to a theoretical foundation and research necessity for evaluating ecological risks in mining areas and assessing the suitability of ecological restoration strategies.

Assessing the effect of Lake Erie dredged sediment on soil properties and specialty crops development

AbstractTo maintain harbour navigability, significant quantities of sediments are annually dredged and disposed of in the vicinities of Lake Erie. This study aimed to assess the impact of Lake Erie sediment on the productivity of tomatoes, lettuce, and carrots. Using a greenhouse setting, this experiment evaluates different sediment‐farm soil ratios: 100% farm soil (Farm Soil), 100% lake sediment (Sediment), and a blend of 10% dredge sediment and 90% farm soil (Mixture). We evaluated the chemical and physical composition of the treatments and the development of the roots, leaves, and fruit production for each crop. Additionally, Total Organic Carbon (TOC), Total Nitrogen (TN), and Total Phosphorus (TP) were assessed post‐harvest for each crop's roots, leaves, and fruit biomass. The Sediment treatment showed higher pH, Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), Calcium, and TOC but lower magnesium, phosphate, and potassium compared to Farm Soil. The Sediment and Mixture treatments exhibited higher root and leaf dry weights for lettuce compared to Farm Soil, with the Sediment treatment showing the longest roots. Sediment and Mixture treatments in carrots led to greater root weight and length. Tomatoes submitted to the Sediment treatment excelled in all variables except stem diameter. Lettuce and carrot biomass analysis revealed no statistical differences in TOC and TN among the treatments. Tomato biomass analysis showed no differences among the three treatments. The use of Lake Erie dredged sediment led to increased crop biomass in the greenhouse production of tomatoes, carrots, and lettuce.

A QTL on Maize Chromosome 5 is Associated with Root-Knot Nematode Resistance.

This study provides the first report of a quantitative trait locus (QTL) in maize (Zea mays) for resistance to the southern root-knot nematode (SRKN) (Meloidogyne incognita). The SRKN can feed on the roots of maize in the U.S. Southern Coastal Plain region and can cause yield losses of 30% or greater in heavily infested fields. Increases in SRKN density in the soil may reduce the yield for subsequently planted susceptible crops. The use of maize hybrids with resistance to SRKN could prevent an increase in SRKN density, yet no genetic regions have been identified that confer host resistance. In this study, a B73 (susceptible) x Ky21 (resistant) S5 recombinant inbred line (RIL) population was phenotyped for total number of eggs (TE) and root weight. This population has been previously genotyped using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). By utilizing the SNP data with the phenotype data, a single QTL was identified on chromosome 5 that explained 15% of the phenotypic variation (PV) for the number of eggs and 11% of the PV for the number of eggs per g of root (EGR). Plants that were homozygous for the Ky21 allele for the most associated marker PZA03172.3 had fewer eggs and fewer EGR than the plants that were homozygous or heterozygous for the B73 allele. Thus, the first QTL for SRKN resistance in maize has been identified and could be incorporated into maize hybrids.

Unveiling the salinity tolerance potential of Armenian Dandur (Portulaca oleracea L.) genotypes: Enhancing sustainable agriculture and food security

This study examines the adaptation of an undocumented halophyte, Dandur, to salt stress in different soil mediums. The Dandur plant physiological, morphological, and biochemical analyses show that it can withstand salinity stress. Dandur plants grown in clay and clay loam soil experienced significant decreases in height and stem diameter under extreme salinity conditions compared to non-saline soil. The fresh weight of root and shoot decreased by 70.4% and 84.8%, respectively, and dry weight by 48.5% and 79.7%. These findings underscore the importance of maintaining saline soil conditions for plant growth. Dandur unique ability to avoid dehydration and maintain growth traits, particularly in clay soil, holds promise for further exploration in agricultural research and food security-related issues caused by climate change in saline areas of Armenia and other European countries.

Effect of Nutrient Solution Flow on Lettuce Root Morphology in Hydroponics: A Multi-Omics Analysis of Hormone Synthesis and Signal Transduction.

This study examined how the nutrient flow environment affects lettuce root morphology in hydroponics using multi-omics analysis. The results indicate that increasing the nutrient flow rate initially increased indicators such as fresh root weight, root length, surface area, volume, and average diameter before declining, which mirrors the trend observed for shoot fresh weight. Furthermore, a high-flow environment significantly increased root tissue density. Further analysis using Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) and Weighted Protein Co-expression Network Analysis (WPCNA) identified modules that were highly correlated with phenotypes and hormones. The analysis revealed a significant enrichment of hormone signal transduction pathways. Differences in the expression of genes and proteins related to hormone synthesis and transduction pathways were observed among the different flow conditions. These findings suggest that nutrient flow may regulate hormone levels and signal transmission by modulating the genes and proteins associated with hormone biosynthesis and signaling pathways, thereby influencing root morphology. These findings should support the development of effective methods for regulating the flow of nutrients in hydroponic contexts.

Response Phaseolus vulgaris L. Plant to Glomus mosseae and Azotobacter chroococcum

An experiment was performed to study the impact of Mycorrhizal fungus (Glomus mosseae) and Azotobacter chroococcum on the growth parameters of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) plant. The experimental methodology employed in this study was a factorial design, specifically a randomized complete block design (RCBD), with three replications. The treatments consisted of four different biological fertilizers, namely: none-inoculated, inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), inoculated with Azotobacter, and a mixture of both (AMF+Azotobacter). The use of biofertilizers, whether used singly or in combination, resulted in improved germination rates, plant height, number of root nodes, as well as fresh and dry weights of both shoots and roots particularly (AMF + Azoto) treatment (96.33±1.52, 37.33±2.08, 50.00±2.00, 8.83±0.40, 3.90±0.20, 6.53±0.23, 2.30±0.20) respectively, compared to plants that were not infected. In addition, the dual treatment of the fungus AMF and the bacteria A. chroococcum was recorded a maximum mycorrhizal infection percentage of 90% compared with the control which recorded 20%. The results of this study suggest the existence of an additive or a synergistic relationship between Glomus mosseae and A.chroococcum.

A dataset of biomass production of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook) plantation (2007–2020)

Chinese fir plantation is the largest and most abundantly stocked plantation in China. Based on the long-time biomass production observation on the Chinese fir plantation comprehensive observation field at Huitong National Forest Ecosystem Research Station, Hunan (Huitong Station), this dataset collects the annual biomass production of the Chinese fir plantation at Huitong Station from 2007 to 2020, covering dry weight of trunk, branches, leaves, fruits (flowers), bark and aerial roots. In this dataset, biomass is calculated based on field survey data combined with biomass modeling. The field survey was collaboratively carried out in strict accordance with CERN specifications, and the quality control and evaluation of the data was carried out by the station monitors, data managers, and quality control personnel of the sub-centers. The establishment and sharing of this dataset mainly provide data support for the biomass production research of Chinese fir plantation under the background of global change. This is of great significance for deeply understanding the structural and functional characteristics of Chinese fir plantation ecosystem and formulating reasonable management measures for Chinese fir plantation.

INFLUENCE OF DROUGHT STRESS ON THE FRUIT AND YIELD QUALITY OF THREE DIFFERENT VARIETIES OF TOMATO (Lycopersicum esculentum L.)

Drought impacts various physiological processes in plants, ultimately affecting yield. The study aimed to determine the influence of drought stress on the fruit and yield quality of three different varieties of tomato namely; Rio, Dan Syria and UTC. The plants were subjected to four treatments which were subjected to 80-85% WHC (water holding capacity) (control, T1), 55-60% WHC (light drought stress, T2), 40-45% WHC (moderate drought stress, T3) and 30-35% WHC (severe drought stress, T4) and each replicated three times. The data generated were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). According to the findings, Rio outperformed the other varieties in terms of fresh fruit weight (21.59g), fruit pericarp thickness (3.96mm) and drought tolerance index (56.17%) under severe drought conditions. However, under severe drought conditions, the highest average number of fruits (2.33) was produced by the UTC, closely followed by Dan Syria (2). The results also showed that under severe drought stress, Rio outperformed the other varieties in terms of fresh and dry weight of shoot, as well as fresh and dry weight of root (18.82g, 3.47g and 3.34g, 1.29g) closely followed by Dan Syria measuring 12.47g, 1.66g, 3.10g, and 0.62g respectively. Under conditions of severe drought stress, Rio, UTC, and Dan Syria exhibit drought tolerance indices of 56.17%, 37.49%, and 20.44% respectively. These suggest that Rio is the most resilient to drought compared to the other varieties. Therefore, farmers should consider using Rio, which has a high level of drought resistance, as a means to mitigate the impact of drought.

Salt-induced changes in morpho-physiological and biochemical properties in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) seedlings

Salinity is one of the most severe abiotic stresses for crop production. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of NaCl on growth and some biochemical parameters in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) seedlings. Chickpeas were grown hydroponically for 14 days and then treated with 0 mM and 200 mM NaCl. Plants were harvested for the experiment 7 days after salt treatment. Salinity showed marked changes in growth parameters (fresh and dry weight of roots and shoots) and the amount of photosynthetic pigments. The study revealed that the activity of photosystems (PS I and PS II) under salt stress is lower than that of plants growing under normal conditions. The spectral characteristics of the chloroplasts isolated from chickpea leaves were studied by the fluorescence method at liquid nitrogen temperature (77K). Under salt stress, the chloroplast fluorescence emission spectrum decreased in the parts of the spectrum characterizing the PSII (maxima at 686 nm and 695 nm) and PSI complexes (maxima at 735 nm). Keywords: Photosynthetic pigments, chloroplasts, photosystems, fluorescence, chickpea

Poultry Litter Compost and NPK fertilizers Induced Growth and Yield Performance of Boro Rice at Rooftop Farming

The effects of inorganic fertilizers and decomposed poultry litter on the growth and yield performance of boro rice (Oryza sativa L.) were assessed by conducting a pot experiment on the rooftop of a building in Charfasson town, Bhola. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD), having eight treatments with three replications each. Different agronomic parameters were measured at 30-day intervals after sowing of seeds and yield parameters after harvesting. The highest height (82.67 cm) at 90d, number of leaf (37.67) at 120d, longest leaf ( 39.67 cm) at 90d, and length of panicle (27.17 cm), number of grains/panicle (153.33), weight of grain/panicle (3.74 g), fresh weight of grains (62.35 g/pot), dry weight of grain (51.53 g/pot), dry weight of root (13.43 g/pot), rice yield (51.53 g/pot) or (5.67 t ha-1), highest B:C ratio (4.51), respectively, were found in the treatment T7: (3.0 t PL ha-1 + N100P25K90 kg ha-1). The results of treatments T7 and T8 are statistically identical. The overall best growth performance and yield of boro rice were achieved in T7: (3.0 t PL ha-1 + N100P25K90 kg ha-1) treatment on a rooftop farming system on the south coast of Bangladesh. Biodivers. Conserv. Bioresour. Manag. 2024, 10(1): 99-108

Growth response of tissue culture-derived bamboo (Bambusa tulda Roxb.) Plantlets to sources and levels of inorganic nitrogen

Information on nitrogen nutrition of bamboo plants during the nursery stage is very limited. The study was conducted to generate more information regarding the nitrogen nutrition of bamboo (Bambusa tulda Roxb.) specifically to evaluate the effect of forms and levels of N on the early growth stage performance of tissue culture-derived bamboo plantlets and identify the best form and optimum level of nitrogen for bamboo plants during the nursery stage. The acclimatized tissue culture-derived bamboo (Bambusa tulda Roxb.) plantlets were grown in black polyethylene bags measuring 24x15cm containing potting medium composed of 1:1v/v mixture of garden soil and rice hull charcoal. These were applied with two forms of nitrogen (N1-nitrate-N and N2-ammonium-N) which served as the factor A and 3 levels of nitrogen (L1-0g N plant-1, L2-0.25g N plant-1, and L3-0.50g N plant-1 which was the factor B of a 2×3 factorial RCBD experiment. The effects of the treatments on the performance of the bamboo plantlets were evaluated by gathering growth parameters such as height, number of leaves and culms and leaf size, and dry weights of leaf, stem, root, and total biomass weight. The form of N applied did not significantly influenced the size of bamboo plants but significantly affected the plant dry weight. Plants fertilized with ammonium-N produced heavier biomass weight than those applied with nitrate-N. The levels of N-application significantly influenced both the plant size and weight. Application of 0.25g N and 0.5g N plant-1 significantly increased the number of culms and leaves and total plant biomass dry weight. Based on the effect on the size and weight of plants, application of 0.25g N plant-1 was already optimum for bamboo plants during the nursery stage. For bamboo plants at the nursery stage, ammonium-N was better than nitrate-N with 0.25g N plant-1 as the optimum level of application.

Growth and Yield Response of Detam 4 Soybean Variety on Single P Fertilizer and Vermicompost Application in Coastal Land

This research was conducted from July to November 2020 in the coastal lands of Ratu Agung District, Lempuing Village, Kuala Alam, Bengkulu City, at an elevation of 5 meters above sea level. The study aimed to investigate the interaction between vermicompost and single phosphorus (P) fertilizer on the growth and yield of Detam 4 soybean plants in coastal lands, focusing on determining the optimal doses for both inputs. The experiment was designed as a two-factor study using a factorial Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The first factor was vermicompost application at four levels: 0 tons ha-1, 5 tons ha-1, 10 tons ha-1, and 15 tons ha-1. The second factor was phosphorus application at three levels: 0 kg ha-1, 50 kg ha-1, and 100 kg ha-1. Observed variables included plant height, number of leaves, flowering age, number of productive branches, number of pods per plant, pod weight per plant, pod weight per plot, seed weight, and root weight. Data were analyzed using ANOVA at the 5% significance level, with a subsequent 5% LSD test if significant effects were found. The application of vermicompost at a dose of 10 tons ha-1 without the addition of single P fertilizer results in the best growth of the soybean variety Detam 4, characterized by the highest average shoot dry weight of 41.133 g, the fastest flowering age, and the greatest number of productive branches. The best yield of the Detam 4 soybean variety is achieved with the application of vermicompost at a dose of 15 tons ha-1, indicated by the highest number of productive branches and seed weight per plant. The independent application of single P fertilizer does not significantly enhance the growth and yield of the Detam 4 soybean variety in coastal land conditions.

A Study of Growth and Yield of Four Peanut Varieties with Rhizobia Inoculation under Field Conditions

The symbiotic nitrogen fixation between rhizobia and peanuts offers an advantage in reducing nitrogen fertilizer inputs, decreasing the incidence rate of peanuts, and enhancing soil fertility. Inoculating rhizobia agent is an effective pathway to improve both the quality and yield of peanuts, contributing to food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This study conducted a one-year field experiment in a subtropical humid monsoon climate area in Southeast China to investigate the effects of rhizobia agents on the growth and crop yield of four peanut varieties (i.e., Taihua No.4, No.6, No.8, and No.10). Our research showed that inoculation with rhizobia agent can increase the plant height, lateral branch length, fresh root weight, and leaf area of the four peanut varieties. Meanwhile, inoculation with a rhizobia agent can significantly (p < 0.05) increase the ~50% number of root nodules. Especially for the early-maturing and drought-resistant variety, Taihua No.4 exhibited the highest number of nodules and peanut fruits per plant in the pod-setting stage after inoculation with rhizobia agent, i.e., 24.5 and 18.0, respectively. Under the conventional fertilization conditions (N-P2O5-K2O 15-15-15, 450 kg/hm2), Taihua No.4 and No.6 inoculated with rhizobia agent achieved higher yield increase rates of 11.0% and 11.6% compared to other peanut varieties. This study indicated that the Taihua No.4 and No.6 are the most suitable peanut varieties for rhizobia inoculation and promotion, with enormous potential for yield increase. Meanwhile, optimizing rhizobia inoculation techniques and evaluating soil health status, economic benefits of peanuts, and applicable regions should be explored in the future.

Effect of Harvest Time on Growth and Bioactive Compounds in Salvia miltiorrhiza.

Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) is a perennial medicinal plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is adapted to a wide range of soil pH with the potential to serve as an alternative crop in the United States. To enhance its cultivation and economic viability, it is crucial to develop production practices that maximize bioactive compound yields for danshen. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different harvest times on plant growth and subsequent yields of bioactive components of danshen. Three harvest times were selected (60, 120, or 180 days after transplanting [DAT]). In general, plants harvested at 180 DAT had higher plant growth index (PGI), shoot number, shoot weight, root number, maximum root length, maximum root diameter, and root weight compared to plants harvested at 60 or 120 DAT. However, plants harvested at 60 or 120 DAT had higher SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development) values. Plants harvested at 120 or 180 DAT had a higher content of tanshinone I, tanshinone IIA, cryptotanshinone, and salvianolic acid B compared to those harvested at 60 DAT. This study provides insights for optimizing the time of harvest of danshen to maximize plant growth and bioactive compound production.

Differential responses of Meloidogyne spp. to Pasteuria isolates over crop cycles

In the present study examining the interaction between Meloidogyne spp. and Pasteuria isolates over three crop cycles, significant differences were observed in eggmass production, root galling, plant root weight, endospore production, and parasitism rates. Higher eggmass production was noted in the Meloidogyne blend treatment, whereas M. incognita showed a marked decline after the third cycle. Root galling varied significantly with nematode populations and Pasteuria isolates, showing notable interaction effects (P0.01). The Meloidogyne blend treatment exhibited the highest gall rating, while M. javanica and M. incognita treatments with Pp3 and PpEcu isolates resulted in lower galling. Fresh root weights of tomato plants differed significantly in the presence of Meloidogyne spp. and Pasteuria isolates, with significant interactions observed (P0.05). Greater root weights were recorded in M. javanica and M. incognita treatments with Pp3 and PpEcu isolates. The production of Pasteuria endospores in Meloidogyne females also showed significant variability across crop cycles (P0.01), with M. incognita and PpEcu treatments yielding the highest endospore numbers. Moreover, parasitism of Meloidogyne females by Pasteuria was significantly influenced by nematode population and isolate presence (P0.01). Higher numbers of infected M. incognita females were found in PpEcu treatments. Final female populations of Meloidogyne spp. varied significantly under Pasteuria influence, with the Meloidogyne blend treatment showing the highest population and M. incognita under PpEcu the lowest. The results highlight the complex interactions between nematodes and the bacteria, emphasizing the potential of Pasteuria isolates to influence various aspects of Meloidogyne spp. development.

Ultralong‐lasting plasma‐activated water inhibits pathogens and improves plant disease resistance in soft rot‐infected hydroponic lettuce

AbstractTo address the short lifetime of plasma‐activated water (PAW), this work reports on the application of ultralong‐lasting PAW for plant disease treatment. Compared with lettuce without ultralong‐lasting PAW treatment, the treated lettuce solution showed c. 1 log10 colony forming units mL−1 decrease in pathogens, as well as improvements in leaf area, leaf weight, root length, and root weight by 75%, 20%, 108.33%, and 150%, respectively. The leaf withering/root mortality rate of PAW‐treated plants was significantly lower than those of non‐PAW‐treated plants. Besides, disease defense‐related enzymes, such as catalase and β−1,3‐glucanase, were respectively enhanced by 112.5% and 5.13% in PAW‐treated lettuce, while the plant defense‐related genes were upregulated to respond to the pathogen's invasion.

ECONOMIC AND BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF RADISH HYBRIDS FOR GROWING IN OPEN SOIL IN THE CONDITIONS OF THE CENTRAL PART OF THE RIGHT BANK FOREST-STEPPE

Radish is an early vegetable crop with a very short growing season, widely cultivated worldwide. At the same time, the extensive varietal resources of radishes and the changing environmental conditions compel agroproducers to perform more careful selection of varieties/hybrids to achieve high yields of marketable products. For this purpose, an agro-biological evaluation of eight radish hybrids of different maturity periods was conducted in open-field cultivation. Differences were found in both the duration of phenophases and the growing period of radish plants. The hybrids Stellar and Rockstar were characterized by faster entry into phenological phases, root formation, and maturation, reaching the technical maturity phase on the 25th day. In terms of biometric indicators at the technical maturity phase (BBCH 49), the hybrid Adele stood out, with plants having the highest height (18 cm), leaf rosette width (18 cm), number of leaves per plant (8 pcs), and area (17.6 thousand m2/ha). Over the years of research from 2017 to 2019, which were marked by contrasting weather conditions, the highest yield was obtained from the Adele hybrid, at 26.1–27.3 t/ha, with a 15% advantage over the control and a yield increase of 3.5 t/ha. The hybrids were ranked by yield as follows: Adele > Eliza > Stellar > Rockstar > Rosetta > Roxanne > Donar > Rolex. The highest quality indicators were found in the root crops of the Adele, Stellar, and Rockstar hybrids. Based on the visual assessment of radish root crops, analysis of their linear dimensions, and quality indicators, the hybrids were ranked as follows: Adele > Stellar > Rockstar > Eliza > Rosetta > Roxanne > Donar > Rolex. A strong direct correlation was found between yield and root weight (r=1), as well as between the developmental phases of the plants (seedling emergence, appearance of the first true leaf, growth and development of leaves and roots) and the technical maturity of the root crops (r=0.90–1.00). The number of leaves per plant correlated with plant height (0.97) and the developmental phases of the plants (0.91–0.97). The sugar content in the root crop correlated with the dry matter content and the root diameter (0.92). Based on the agro-biological evaluation of radish hybrids of different maturity groups, it was determined that the most productive hybrids with quality root crops for open-field cultivation are the early-maturing Stellar, the mid-maturing Eliza, and the late-maturing Adele, which are recommended for cultivation in farms of various ownership forms in the central part of the Right-Bank Forest-Steppe.