Wheat Production Research Articles

A generalized model for accurate wheat spike detection and counting in complex scenarios

Wheat is a crucial crop worldwide, and accurate detection and counting of wheat spikes are vital for yield estimation and breeding. However, these tasks are daunting in complex field environments. To tackle this, we introduce RIA-SpikeNet, a model designed to detect and count wheat spikes in such conditions. First, we introduce an Implicit Decoupling Detection Head to incorporate more implicit knowledge, enabling the model to better distinguish visually similar wheat spikes. Second, Asymmetric Loss is employed as the confidence loss function, enhancing the learning weights of positive and hard samples, thus improving performance in complex scenes. Lastly, the backbone network is modified through reparameterization and the use of larger convolutional kernels, expanding the effective receptive field and improving shape information extraction. These enhancements significantly improve the model’s ability to detect and count wheat spikes accurately. RIA-SpikeNet outperforms the state-of-the-art YOLOv8 detection model, achieving a competitive 81.54% mAP and 90.29% R2. The model demonstrates superior performance in challenging scenarios, providing an effective tool for wheat spike yield estimation in field environments and valuable support for wheat production and breeding efforts.

Influence of Artemisia dubia Wall and Pig Manual Digestate on Winter Wheat Productivity and Grain Quality

Sustainable agriculture aims to use biological resources to improve crop quality and productivity. This approach promotes alternatives, such as replacing synthetic pesticides with biological ones and substituting mineral fertilizers with organic fertilizers. Field trials were conducted using two different factors: fertilizer treatments (ammonium nitrate and pig manure digestate) and plant protection treatments (pesticides, Artemisia dubia Wall biomass mulch, and strips). After harvesting the winter wheat, the productivity and quality (weight of 1000 grains, protein, gluten, starch, sedimentation of grains) were evaluated. The two-year studies showed that pig manure digestate positively affected winter wheat grain quality. Mugwort biomass outperformed other plant protection options in three key grain quality indicators (protein, gluten, and sedimentation). Furthermore, in 2023, the highest grain yield of 5798 ± 125 kg ha−1 was observed in the pesticides and pig manure digestate treatment. The quick impact and mode of action of vegetation pesticides were more easily felt over the two years of study, leading to the highest yield of wheat grains compared to other plant management measures. This study shows that mugwort biomass can positively influence wheat grain quality, a significant milestone in utilizing nonfood crops as alternatives for agricultural productivity.

Allelochemicals Released from Rice Straw Inhibit Wheat Seed Germination and Seedling Growth

Recently, returning rice straw to soil has become a common problem in wheat production because it causes decreased wheat seedling emergence. Allelopathy is an important factor affecting seed germination. However, the effects of rice straw extracts on wheat seed germination and seedling growth remain unclear. Wheat seeds and seedlings were treated with 30 g L−1 of rice leaf extracts (L1), 60 g L−1 of rice leaf extracts (L2), 30 g L−1 of rice stem extracts (S1), 60 g L−1 of rice stem extracts (S2) and sterile water (CK) to study the allelopathic effects of rice straw extracts on wheat seed germination and seedling growth. The α-amylase and antioxidant enzyme activities in wheat seeds; the agronomic traits, photosynthetic indicators, and nutrient contents of wheat seedlings; and the phenolic acids in rice stem extracts were determined. Common allelochemicals, including 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, hydrocinnamic acid, trans-cinnamic acid, vanillic acid, benzoic acid, protocatechualdehyde, caffeic acid, syringic acid, sinapic acid, and salicylic acid, were detected in rice stem extracts. Low-concentration rice leaf and stem extracts (30 g L−1) had no effect on the germination rate of wheat seeds. High-concentration (60 g L−1) rice stem and leaf extracts decreased the seed germination rate by 11.00% and 12.02%. Rice stem extract (60 g L−1) decreased the α-amylase activity, and gibberellin content of wheat seeds but increased superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase activities and malondialdehyde content in wheat seeds. Allelochemicals entered the internal tissues of wheat seeds, where they decreased the gibberellin content and α-amylase activity and increased the antioxidant enzyme activity, ultimately leading to an inhibitory effect on seed germination. Rice stem and leaf extracts decreased the SPAD value and photosynthetic indicators of wheat seedlings. Rice stem extract (60 g L−1) decreased the fresh weight and root length of wheat seedlings by 31.37% and 45.46%. Low-concentration rice leaf and stem extract (30 g L−1) had no effect on the nutrient contents of wheat seedlings. Rice leaf and stem extracts (60 g L−1) decreased the nitrogen and potassium contents of wheat seedlings. These results indicated that low-concentration rice leaf and stem extract (30 g L−1) had no effect on wheat seed germination and the high-concentration rice stem extract (60 g L−1) released allelochemicals and inhibited wheat seed germination and seedling growth. These findings provide a basis for the improvement of straw return techniques.

Влияние приемов орошения на структуру почвы и продуктивность посевов яровой пшеницы в сухостепном Поволжье

Irrigation plays a key role in preserving land fertility and ensuring the growth of crop yields in the arid conditions of the dry-steppe zone of the Volga region. This factor primarily limits the volume and stability of crop production. The article presents the results of studies on the study of various irrigation techniques - watering along the strips and irrigation by sprinkling. An analysis was carried out on the effect of the applied irrigation methods on the soil structure and productivity of spring wheat crops. It was found that irrigation methods had different effects on the factors of changing the water-physical properties of the soil and the spring wheat crop. The most effective in terms of productivity of spring wheat grain - a yield of 1.74 t/ha was detected during irrigation with sprinkling using wide-grip sprinklers. Irrigation in strips is less expensive, but the productivity of spring wheat is less with this type of irrigation - 1.16 t/ha. When watering along the strips immediately after the first watering, the overall duty cycle decreases. When watering by sprinkling, water-resistant units pass into the category of sprayed only by the end of the vegetation of spring wheat. Thus, strip watering had the most negative impact on the structure of dark chestnut soil under spring wheat crops. With this version of irrigation, erosion processes begin to develop to a greater extent.

Evaluation of Wheat Genotypes for Growth and Yield Performance under Rainfed Conditions

This research evaluated the growth and yield potential of five wheat genotypes viz., UJ-2021, Sindh-2023, Punjab-2024, NWFP-2022 and Balochistan-2020 under rainfed environment at National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad during 2024. The major aim was to establish optimal and drought-tolerant genotypes in low water supply conditions. Having laid down three replications per genotype according to a randomized complete block design, the work concentrated on plant population, plant height, and number of tillers, 1000-grain weight, grain yield and biomass yield. Punjab-2024 genotype showed better performance than other genotypes in all parameters though variations were observed in plant population (210 plants/m²), plant height (112 cm), number of tillers (8. 2 per plant), 1000-grain weight (48 g), grain yield (520 g/m²), and biomass production (1. 50 kg/m²). On the other hand Balochistan-2020 had the lowest yield potential attributed to lower adaptability and productivity under rainfed environment. The current research is paramount in understanding ways of selecting better genotypes in order to increase the production of wheat under water deficit conditions. The results of Punjab-2024 indicate its enhanced yield and resource use efficiency in rainfed situation thus signifying its potential. The results are important for maintenance and improvement of high yielding and resistant wheat genotypes which would help in food security and sustainable farming. Future work should be aimed more at improving the low performing genotypes of Punjab-2024 and identify the underlying genetics for the said advantageous traits.

Unraveling the Secrets of Early-Maturity and Short-Duration Bread Wheat in Unpredictable Environments.

In response to the escalating challenges posed by unpredictable environmental conditions, the pursuit of early maturation in bread wheat has emerged as a paramount research endeavor. This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted landscape of strategies and implications surrounding the unlocking of early maturation in bread wheat varieties. Drawing upon a synthesis of cutting-edge research in genetics, physiology, and environmental science, this review elucidates the intricate mechanisms underlying early maturation and its potential ramifications for wheat cultivation in dynamic environments. By meticulously analyzing the genetic determinants, physiological processes, and environmental interactions shaping early maturation, this review offers valuable insights into the complexities of this trait and its relevance in contemporary wheat breeding programs. Furthermore, this review critically evaluates the trade-offs inherent in pursuing early maturation, navigating the delicate balance between accelerated development and optimal yield potential. Through a meticulous examination of both challenges and opportunities, this review provides a comprehensive framework for researchers, breeders, and agricultural stakeholders to advance our understanding and utilization of early maturation in bread wheat cultivars, ultimately fostering resilience and sustainability in wheat production systems worldwide.

Effect of Bio-Herbicide Application on Durum Wheat Quality: From Grain to Bread Passing through Wholemeal Flour

Using plant extracts to replace traditional chemical herbicides plays an essential role in sustainable agriculture. The present work evaluated the quality of durum wheat cv Valbelice in two years (2014 and 2016) using plant aqueous extracts of sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) and mugwort (Artemisia arborescens L.) as bio-herbicides on the main quality characteristics of durum wheat. The untreated, water-treated, and chemically treated durum wheat products were also analyzed as controls. Following the official methodologies, grain commercial analyses and defects of the kernels were determined. The main chemical and technological features were determined on the wholemeal flour: proteins, dry matter, dry gluten, gluten index, colorimetric parameters, mixograph, falling number, and sedimentation test in SDS. An experimental bread-making test was performed, and the main parameters were detected on the breads: bread volume, weight, moisture, porosity, hardness, and colorimetric parameters on crumb and crust. Within the two years, grain commercial analyses of the total five treatments showed no statistically significant differences concerning test weight (range 75.47–84.33 kg/hL) and thousand kernel weight (range 26.58–35.36 kg/hL). Differently, significant differences were observed in terms of kernel defects, particularly starchy kernels, black pointed kernels, and shrunken kernels, mainly due to the year factor. Analyses on the whole-grain flours showed significant differences. This affected dry gluten content (7.35% to 16.40%) and gluten quality (gluten index from 6.44 to 45.81). Mixograph results for mixing time ranged from 1.90 min to 3.15 min, whilst a peak dough ranged from 6.83 mm to 9.85 mm, showing, in both cases, statistically significant differences between treatments. The falling number showed lower values during the first year (on average 305 s) and then increased in the second year (on average 407 s). The sedimentation test showed no statistically significant differences, ranging from 27.75 mm to 34.00 mm. Regarding the bread produced, statistically significant year-related differences were observed for the parameters loaf volume during the first year (on average 298.75 cm3) and then increased in the second year (on average 417.33 cm3). Weight range 136.85 g to 145.18 g and moisture range 32.50 g/100 g to 39.51 g/100 g. Hardness range 8.65 N to 12.75 N and porosity (range 5.00 to 8.00) were closely related to the type of treatment. Finally, the color of flour and bread appeared to be not statistically significantly affected by treatment type. From a perspective of environmental and economic sustainability, the use of plant extracts with a bio-herbicidal function could replace traditional chemical herbicides.

Stress-Responsive Gene Expression, Metabolic, Physiological, and Agronomic Responses by Consortium Nano-Silica with Trichoderma against Drought Stress in Bread Wheat

The exploitation of drought is a critical worldwide challenge that influences wheat growth and productivity. This study aimed to investigate a synergistic amendment strategy for drought using the single and combined application of plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM) (Trichoderma harzianum) and biogenic silica nanoparticles (SiO2NPs) from rice husk ash (RHA) on Saudi Arabia’s Spring wheat Summit cultivar (Triticum aestivum L.) for 102 DAS (days after sowing). The significant improvement was due to the application of 600 ppm SiO2NPs and T. harzianum + 600 ppm SiO2NPs, which enhanced the physiological properties of chlorophyll a, carotenoids, total pigments, osmolytes, and antioxidant contents of drought-stressed wheat plants as adaptive strategies. The results suggest that the expression of the studied genes (TaP5CS1, TaZFP34, TaWRKY1, TaMPK3, TaLEA, and the wheat housekeeping gene TaActin) in wheat remarkably enhanced wheat tolerance to drought stress. We discovered that the genes and metabolites involved significantly contributed to defense responses, making them potential targets for assessing drought tolerance levels. The drought tolerance indices of wheat were revealed by the mean productivity (MP), stress sensitivity index (SSI), yield stability index (YSI), and stress tolerance index (STI). We employed four databases, such as BAR, InterPro, phytozome, and the KEGG pathway, to predict and decipher the putative domains in prior gene sequencing. As a result, we discovered that these genes may be involved in a range of important biological functions in specific tissues at different developmental stages, including response to drought stress, proline accumulation, plant growth and development, and defense response. In conclusion, the sole and/or dual T. harzianum application to the wheat cultivar improved drought tolerance strength. These findings could be insightful data for wheat production in Saudi Arabia under various water regimes.

Effects of seeding methods and nutrient management practices on growth and yield of organic wheat (Triticum aestivum)

An experiment was conducted out during winter (rabi) seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23 at the Research Farm of Maharana Pratap Univesity of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan to study the effect of nutrient management practices and sowing methods on the development and production of organic wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment was conducted in a split plot design (SPD) with 4 replications. The experiment consisted of 3 sowing methods in main plots, viz. Flat row sowing; FIRB (Furrow Irrigated Raised Bed) sowing; and zero tillage sowing and 8 nutrient management practices, viz. 100% RDN through FYM as basal; RDN through FYM as basal + 50% RDN with first irrigation; 75% RDN through FYM as basal + 25% RDN with first irrigation; 50% RDN through FYM as basal + 25% RDN with first irrigation + 25% RDN with second irrigation; 100% RDN through FYM as basal + jeevamrit @500 litre/ha at sowing and first irrigation + panchagavya @5% at booting stage; 50% RDN through FYM as basal + 50% RDN with first irrigation + jeevamrit @500 litre/ha at sowing and first irrigation + panchagavya @5% at booting stage; 75% RDN through FYM as basal + 25% RDN with first irrigation + jeevamrit @500 litre/ha at sowing and first irrigation + panchagavya @5% at booting stage; 50% RDN through FYM as basal + 25% RDN with first irrigation + 25% RDN with second irrigation + jeevamrit @500 litre/ha at sowing and first irrigation + panchagavya @5% at booting stage in sub plots. The experimental results revealed that the FIRB sowing method recorded significantly higher plant height at 45 DAS (42.56 and 42.66 cm) during both the years of study over zero tillage sowing method and remain at par with flat row sowing method, respectively. The same sowing method resulted into statistically higher grain yield (42.88 and 43.87 q/ha) and biological yield (106.89 and 108.48 q/ha) compared to flat row sowing and zero tillage sowing methods during both the years, respectively. During the second year of study (2023) significantly highest crop growth rate (CGR) (1.1240 g/m2/day) and relative growth rate (RGR) (0.0083 g/g/day) between 90 DAS to harvest were recorded with flat row sowing over zero tillage sowing and remain at par with FIRB sowing method. Regarding the nutrient management practices the highest plant height (43.43 and 44.51 cm), grain yield (44.52 and 44.84 q/ha) and biological yield (110.35 and 110.58 q/ha) were recorded with 75% RDN through FYM as basal + 25% RDN with first irrigation + jeevamrit @500 litre/ha at sowing and first irrigation + panchagavya @5% at booting stage.

The role of salicylic acid in modulating phenotyping in spring wheat varieties for mitigating drought stress

Climate change-related droughts that recur frequently are one of the biggest obstacles to wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) productivity. Worldwide, attempts are being done to establish drought-resistant cultivars. However, progress is slow since drought tolerance is a complex trait controlled by numerous genes, and its expression is influenced by the environment. Phenotypic, biochemical physiological, and genotyping approaches are highlighted as critical research components for leveraging genetic variation in eight wheat genotypes. Treatments included eight spring wheat genotypes (IPK_040, IPK_046, IPK_050, IPK_071, IPK_105, WAS_007, WAS_024 and WAS_031), normal irrigation (NI), drought stress (D) (30% field capacity (FC)), normal irrigation with 0.5 mM SA (NSA), and drought treated with SA (DSA). The results revealed that there was a reduction in relative water content, an increase membrane leakage, and leaf chlorophyll content under drought stress. SA induced the defense responses against drought by increasing the osmolytes and the antioxidative enzymes activities. Compared to the NI group, the DSA treatment improved the water regulation, antioxidant capacity, and drought stress resistance. SA significantly reduced the deleterious effects of water stress on phenotyping more in WAS_ 024 and IPK_ 105 genotypes. The most responsive genotypes to salicylic acid were IPK_ 046 among the IPK genotypes, whereas WAS_031 genotype was amongst WAS genotypes based on the morpho-physiological traits. The findings of this study give a solid foundation for assessing drought resistance in T. aestivum and developing cultivation-specific water management methods.Graphical

Adaptive mechanisms of wheat cultivars to lead toxicity through enhanced oxidative defense, ionomic redistribution, and anatomical modifications

Lead (Pb) contamination is a critical environmental issue that poses a substantial threat to agricultural sustainability and crop productivity, particularly for staple crops like wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). This study investigates the differential physiological, biochemical, and anatomical responses of two wheat cultivars, SKD-1 and Borlaug-16, under Pb stress (100 mg/kg Pb for 21 days). Borlaug-16 displayed a notable tolerance to Pb toxicity, evidenced by a significant increase in total biomass, including a 41.22% rise in shoot turgid weight and a 23.37% increase in root turgid weight, alongside a 57.72% enhancement in root cortex thickness. This cultivar also showed increased antioxidant enzyme activities, such as catalase and peroxidase, and a better ionomic balance, maintaining higher levels of essential minerals like Ca in leaf tissues while effectively accumulating Pb and other trace elements in roots. In contrast, SKD-1 suffered from a more substantial reduction in essential minerals and weaker anatomical and biochemical defenses. The study's novelty lies in providing an integrated approach to understanding wheat cultivar-specific adaptations to Pb stress, suggesting Borlaug-16 as a promising candidate for cultivation in Pb-contaminated soils. These findings underscore the importance of developing Pb-tolerant cultivars to ensure sustainable wheat production in polluted environments.

Effects of NPS Fertilizer Rate on Yield and Yield Components of Bread Wheat Production in Degem District, North Shewa Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia

Productivity of wheat was low due to depleted soil fertility and the blanket use of fertilizers. Fertilizer is the most vital input, contributing significantly to final wheat yields although wheat yields have long been low due to a lack of soil test-based site-specific fertilizer recommendations. This study aimed to determine an economically appropriate rate of NPS fertilizer based on calibrated Phosphorus for bread wheat production in the Degem district. The experiments laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The treatments were based on already determined Phosphorous critical and requirement factors and consisted of 100% Pc from TSP fertilizer, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% Pc from NPS fertilizer and control (without fertilizer). The phosphorus requirement factor (Pf) (5.85), phosphorus critical (Pc) (22 ppm), and optimum nitrogen optimum nitrogen (92 kg ha<sup>-1</sup>) were used from previous studies. Improved bread wheat variety senete was used at 150 kg/ ha seeds rate. The results of a statistical analysis of variance demonstrated that NPS fertilizer rates based on calibrated phosphorus had significant effects on bread wheat production. Partial budget analysis shows the maximum net benefit (101,570.65 Birr ha<sup>-1</sup>) with an acceptable marginal rate of return (MRR) (932’52 %) through the application of 75% of Pc from NPS with optimum nitrogen fertilizer use. Consequently, 75% Pc from NPS should be used in the Degem district for bread wheat production, with the optimum nitrogen. Thus, further scaled-up and demonstration of the technologies for bread wheat production in the Degem district.

Productivity of Wheat Landraces in Rainfed and Irrigated Conditions under Conventional and Organic Input in a Semiarid Mediterranean Environment

Wheat landraces are locally adapted populations that are suitable for low-input agronomic management and constraining pedo-climatic conditions. The productivity of landraces under high-input and optimal conditions is usually lower than modern wheat varieties. The present study compared the response of Sicilian wheat landraces and modern varieties to organic management, including organic fertilization, and conventional management, including mineral fertilization and chemical weed control, under rainfed condition and supplementary irrigation in a field trial conducted on a xerofluvent soil in a semiarid Mediterranean climate. Modern varieties were on average more productive than landraces, although certain landraces achieved comparable yields, in particular under organic management. The increase in grain yield under conventional management in comparison with the organic management was higher for modern varieties than landraces. The loss of productivity in rainfed conditions was lower for landraces compared to modern varieties. The grain quality traits were similar between landraces and modern varieties and in both cases the conventional management led to an improvement of the traits. These findings highlight the resilience and adaptability of traditional wheat landraces to low-input agricultural systems and offer valuable insights into improving the sustainability and productivity of wheat production in Mediterranean environments.

Assessing the impact of various irrigation technologies on agricultural production: A water-energy‑carbon nexus perspective

Effective coordination of water, energy, and carbon is vital for the sustainable development of irrigated agriculture. However, limited research has been conducted on the impact of irrigation technology on the coupling and coordination relationship of these elements, especially on the North China Plain (NCP) where irrigation is applied extensively. This study establishes a water-energy‑carbon (WEC) nexus framework based on footprint theory and energy analysis. Water utilization, energy consumption, and carbon emissions in a wheat production system under conventional irrigation (CI), sprinkler irrigation (SI), and drip irrigation (DI) technology on the NCP from 2000 to 2019 were quantified. Subsequently, the coupling coordination degree (CCD) model is used to analyze the interactions and correlations of the WEC nexus. Results indicated that SI and CI effectively reduced water consumption and mitigated water degradation, but this came at the expense of increased energy consumption and carbon emissions. The irrigation process represented the predominant share of energy consumption, representing 40.54 % and 37.64 % of the production-based energy consumption under SI and DI, respectively. The primary contributors to the production-based carbon footprint under CI, SI, and DI were N fertilizer (23.67 %), pipeline production (59.10 %), and irrigation electricity (21.85 %), respectively. The CCD range of WEC systems under the three irrigation technologies varied from 0.35 to 0.50 on the NCP during the investigation period. There were some slight differences in the average annual CCD between each irrigation technology, with DI (0.43) > SI (0.40) > CI (0.39). SI and DI was in basic coordination, while CI was in imbalanced type. Meanwhile, the spatial heterogeneity of CCD was fully reflected over time. Promoting water-saving irrigation technologies, developing clean energy, controlling the expansion of irrigation areas, and strengthening the connections among various subsystems are crucial measure to achieve regional WEC nexus coupling coordination.

Downy brome (Bromus tectorum) management and herbicide resistance in dryland wheat production across northeastern Oregon

Abstract Downy brome (Bromus tectorum L.) is a difficult species to control in the dryland wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production areas of northeastern Oregon. The selection of herbicide-resistant B. tectorum populations has further complicated B. tectorum management. A survey of wheat growers was conducted in 2021 and 2022 to understand B. tectorum management practices. The survey included four questions based on the growing seasons from 2017 to 2022 related to crop rotation, tillage versus no-tillage, irrigation versus dryland, and herbicide programs. To determine the extent of herbicide resistance, seeds were collected from 49 B. tectorum populations in wheat fields in northeastern Oregon and tested for resistance. Herbicides tested were clethodim, glyphosate, imazamox, mesosulfuron, metribuzin, propoxycarbazone, pyroxasulfone, pyroxsulam, quizalofop, and sulfosulfuron. Winter wheat–summer fallow rotation was the most predominant cropping system in the region. Most of the fields were in no-tillage systems, and none were irrigated. Pyroxasulfone applied preemergence and acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitors applied postemergence were the most often used herbicides for B. tectorum control in winter wheat. Glyphosate was the most frequently used herbicide for B. tectorum control in summer fallow. Resistance screenings confirmed that 46 of the 49 B. tectorum populations were resistant to ALS inhibitors with different cross-resistance patterns. Two populations were resistant to metribuzin and exhibited multiple resistance to ALS inhibitors. All populations were susceptible to clethodim, glyphosate, pyroxasulfone, and quizalofop. The widespread occurrence of ALS inhibitor–resistant B. tectorum populations limits effective postemergence herbicide options in winter wheat.

Potential Mechanisms of Hexaconazole Resistance in Fusarium graminearum.

Fusarium head blight (FHB) caused by Fusarium graminearum is a serious fungal disease that can dramatically impact wheat production. At present, disease control is mainly achieved by the use of chemical fungicides. Hexaconazole (IUPAC name: 2(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-1-(1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)hexan-2-ol) is a widely used triazole fungicide, but the sensitivity of F. graminearum to this compound has yet to be established. The current study found that the EC50 values of 83 field isolates of F. graminearum ranged between 0.06 and 4.33 μg/ml, with an average EC50 value of 0.78 μg/ml. Assessment of four hexaconazole-resistant laboratory mutants of F. graminearum revealed that their mycelial growth and pathogenicity were reduced compared with their parental isolates and that asexual reproduction was reduced by resistance to hexaconazole. Meanwhile, the mutants appeared to be more sensitive to abiotic stress associated with SDS and H2O2, while their tolerance to high concentrations of Congo red, and Na+ and K+ increased. Molecular analysis revealed numerous point mutations in the FgCYP51 target genes that resulted in amino acid substitutions, including L92P and N123S in FgCYP51A, as well as M331V, F62L, Q252R, A412V, and V488A in FgCYP51B, and S28L, S256A, V307A, D287G, and R515I in FgCYP51C, three of which (S28L, S256A, and V307A) were conserved in all of the resistant mutants. Furthermore, the expression of the FgCYP51 genes in resistant strains was found to be significantly (P < 0.05) reduced compared with their sensitive parental isolates. Positive cross-resistance was found between hexaconazole and metconazole and flutriafol, as well as with the diarylamine fungicide fluazinam, but not with propiconazole, and the phenylpyrrole fungicide fludioxonil, or with tebuconazole, which actually exhibited negative cross-resistance. These results provide valuable insight into resistant mechanisms to triazole fungicides in F. graminearum, as well as the appropriate selection of fungicide combinations for the control of FHB to ensure optimal wheat production.

Phenotypic Selection of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Elite Lines for Diseases Resistance and Yield Potential

Wheat diseases and pests globally threaten wheat production. Wheat rust diseases are the most distractive biotic constraint of wheat in Ethiopia. Therefore, this experiment aimed to select and develop wheat rust resistance bread wheat varieties for the farmers. The result of the study revealed highly significant variation existed among tested genotypes for Plant Height (PHT), Days to Heading (DTH), Days to Maturity (DTM), Thousand Kernel Weight (TKW), Hectoliter Weight (HLW), and Yield (YLD) at (P&lt; 0.001). Out the forty-nine introduced genotypes, five genotypes: EBW222153, EBW222159, EBW222160, EBW222162, and EBW222164, showed resistance to moderately resistance for both yellow rust and stem rust diseases across the two test locations. Also, they delivered high average yield: 5.9 tha-1, 4.46 tha-1, 5.17tha-1,4.15 tha-1, and 4.79tha-1 respectively. Furthermore, all the above-mentioned genotypes, except EBW222162, showed significantly higher yield at (P&lt;0.05) than the check variety, Shaki. Furthermore, EBW222153, EBW222159, EBW222160, EBW222162, EBW222164, and EBW222178 would resistance to moderately resistance for stem rust at Melkasa. Thus, the selection of these genotypes and advancing to the next stage of breeding pipelines enables to release noble bread wheat varieties for the farmers.

Strategic lead compound design and development utilizing computer-aided drug discovery (CADD) to address herbicide-resistant Phalaris minor in wheat fields.

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is a vital cereal crop and a staple food source worldwide. However, wheat grain productivity has significantly declined as a consequence of infestations by Phalaris minor. Traditional weed control methods have proven inadequate owing to the physiological similarities between P. minor and wheat during early growth stages. Consequently, farmers have turned to herbicides, targeting acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase), acetolactate synthase (ALS) and photosystem II (PSII). Isoproturon targeting PSII was introduced in mid-1970s, to manage P. minor infestations. Despite their effectiveness, the repetitive use of these herbicides has led to the development of herbicide-resistant P. minor biotypes, posing a significant challenge to wheat productivity. To address this issue, there is a pressing need for innovative weed management strategies and the discovery of novel herbicide molecules. The integration of computer-aided drug discovery (CADD) techniques has emerged as a promising approach in herbicide research, that facilitates the identification of herbicide targets and enables the screening of large chemical libraries for potential herbicide-like molecules. By employing techniques such as homology modelling, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation and pharmacophore modelling, CADD has become a rapid and cost-effective medium to accelerate the herbicide discovery process significantly. This approach not only reduces the dependency on traditional experimental methods, but also enhances the precision and efficacy of herbicide development. This article underscores the critical role of bioinformatics and CADD in developing next-generation herbicides, offering new hope for sustainable weed management and improved wheat cultivation practices. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Geochemical Interaction and Bioavailability of Zinc in Soil Under Long‐Term Integrated Nutrient Management in Pearl Millet–Wheat System

ABSTRACTThe degree and severity of zinc (Zn) deficiency in soil reduced the agricultural yield and quality, thus encouraging malnutrition in humans worldwide. The study was hypothesized to increase the bioavailability and release of Zn in soil and Zn biofortification in wheat grains under integrated nutrient management (INM). The long‐term (54 years) experiment laid out in a split‐plot design comprising single (W) and dual (PW) applications of farmyard manure (FYM) (0, 5, 10, and 15 Mg ha−1) and nitrogen (0, 60, and 120 kg ha−1) was studied to understand the distribution of different Zn fractions in soil and their relationship to wheat grain yield and Zn uptake. A laboratory incubation study was performed on surface soils to evaluate the release kinetics of native Zn at field capacity. The different fractions of Zn in soil increased with increasing frequency and levels of FYM application. Residual Zn constituted the maximum proportion (89.03%) of total soil Zn. A high positive correlation (p &lt; 0.01) of diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA)‐extractable Zn and total grain Zn content were observed with different Zn fractions. The release kinetics of native soil Zn increased up to 10 days and became almost constant, indicating the establishment of chemical equilibria between the soil solid and solution phase. Thus, long‐term INM ensured higher wheat production (6.08 Mg ha−1) and Zn biofortification (38.95 mg kg−1) to combat Zn malnutrition and achieve the United Nations’ sustainable development goals on “zero hunger” and “good health and well‐being.”

Assessing the population structure and genetic diversity of wheat germplasm with the iPBS-retrotransposons marker system

Context Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an important crop that provides food to millions of people all over the world. Currently, wheat production is limited due to various biotic and abiotic stresses resulting from uneven patterns of climate change. Therefore, it is very important to develop climate-resilient wheat cultivars. Crop genetic diversity allows the scientific community to identify genetic variations that can be utilised in the development of improved cultivars. Aims This study planned to characterise the wheat germplasm with the iPBS-retrotransposons marker system. Methods A total of 30 iPBS-retrotransposons markers were screened and among these, the 12 most polymorphic markers were selected for further analysis. Key results Molecular characterisation yielded a total of 170 bands, of which 143 were polymorphic. A substantial level of genetic diversity was observed (mean effective number of alleles: 1.37, Shannon’s information index: 0.23, gene diversity: 0.35). Maximum genetic distance was observed in G9 and G60 genotypes. Analysis of molecular variance revealed that most genetic variation (95%) occurred within the populations. The model-based structure algorithm divided the studied germplasm into three populations based on their collection regions. Similarly, the neighbour-joining analysis also divided 70 tested wheat genotypes into three populations, whereas principal coordinate analysis divided the evaluated germplasm into four populations. Conclusions This study confirms the iPBS-retrotransposons as an ideal marker for the genetic diversity assessment studies for any crop, especially for wheat. Implications The results presented here will be helpful for the scientific community in the marker-assisted breeding of wheat.