University of Córdoba (Spain)

About: University of Córdoba (Spain) is a education organization based out in Cordova, Spain. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Catalysis. The organization has 12006 authors who have published 22998 publications receiving 537842 citations. The organization is also known as: University of Córdoba (Spain) & Universidad de Córdoba.

Agri-Food systems and territorial development: innovations, new dynamics and changing governance mechanisms

Abstract: The chapter explores the linkages between farming systems and agri-food chains in a territorial development context. Lock-in effects within the current agri-food system are analysed through a socio-historical analysis. Then the experiences of emergent, still relatively small-scale, alternative food networks are assessed in terms of their transformative potential to enable sustainable food systems at a larger scale. Finally, the analysis focuses on the transition processes of agri-food systems at the territorial scale and considers the changes needed in governance modes. The chapter underlines the interdependencies and possible complementarities between the various actors of agri-food systems from production to consumption, including intermediaries as well as public policies and civil society. It emphasizes the transition and governance aspects involved.

Field performance of Pinus halepensis planted in Mediterranean arid conditions: relative influence of seedling morphology and mineral nutrition

Abstract: In Mediterranean arid regions, relatively small planting stock has traditionally been used in an attempt to reduce drought susceptibility, though few studies have examined influences of initial seedling morphology and nutrition on long-term plantation establishment. We fertilized Pinus halepensis Mill. seedlings in the nursery with controlled release fertilizer (CRF) varying in formulations and rates; 9-13-18 and 17-10-10 (N-P-K) formulations at 3, 5 and 7 g l−1 substrate plus an unfertilized control and we evaluated growth and survival 7 years after planting in arid conditions in Almeria province, southeast Spain. Interactions between initial height and fertilizer treatments occurred during the first 3 years; initial size advantages of specific fertilizer treatments (7 g l−1 of 9-13-18 and 17-10-10 at 3 g l−1) persisted after 7 years. The largest and most nutrient-rich seedlings from 9-13-18 at 7 g l−1 (41.0 cm tall, 4.4 mg of P per g of root tissue at time of planting) exhibited the highest survival after 7 years (79%), while survival declined to 42% for non-fertilized plants (12.9 cm tall and 0.6 mg of P per g of root tissue). Initial seedling morphological parameters were most consistently correlated with field performance. Root P concentration was the nutrient variable most closely related to survival. Our data emphasizes importance of longer-term experiments to accurately assess influences of nursery treatments on field responses, particularly in arid areas. We suggest that larger seedlings with greater nutrient reserves than are currently being used should be incorporated into Mediterranean plantations.