Showing papers in "Advances in Plants and Agriculture Research in 2015"
TL;DR: Whitehead formation is most severe in seasons with a wet start and dry climates, pinkish fungal growth may form on lower nodes especially during moist weather (Figure 1).
Abstract: Crown rot (FCR) caused by many kinds of Fusarium spp as F. pseudograminearum and F. culmorum is a common pathogen to FCR while F. grarnineurm group I, F. crookwellense, F. avenaceum and F. nivale [3-6]. FCR disease infect the stem base of wheat and barley causing necrosis and dry rot of the crown bases always brown, often extending up 2-4 nodes, basal stem and root tissue commonly known as crown rot [7]. Whitehead formation is most severe in seasons with a wet start and dry climates, pinkish fungal growth may form on lower nodes especially during moist weather (Figure 1).
65 citations
TL;DR: Research efforts into perfecting alternative uses for camelina oil and meal such as using camelina as a drop-in product for adhesives, films, coatings, packing materials and plastics will expand the market beyond biodiesel.
Abstract: Identifying crops that are adapted to semi-arid environments of the central and northern Great Plains (GP) has been a major challenge. An alternative crop with potential for semi-arid crop production in the GP is camelina (Camelina sativa L. Crantz). Compared to other oilseed crops, research has shown spring camelina to be cold and drought tolerant requires relatively low agricultural inputs and well adapted to semi-arid regions. Because of these agronomic attributes, camelina has been promoted as a low-input biofuel crop for the drier regions of the GP. Camelina seed has higher oil content (> 35%) with unique properties for industrial and nutritional applications. For example, a blend of camelina-based jet fuel tested in commercial and military flights in the US met all aviation fuel specifications and performance. The oil contains 40% ?-linolenic acid (18:3n-6) an omega-3 fatty acid which has important implication in human and animal diets. Thus camelina has potential for commercial biofuel production and other industrial uses. However, there are limited production recommendations for camelina and the benefits and challenges of adopting camelina in cereal-based crop production systems in the GP have not been sufficiently explored. In addition, the lack of a reliable market outlet and low profitability when compared to other oilseeds are presently hampering camelina adoption by growers. Agronomic research to identify suitable camelina genotypes, seeding dates and soil fertility requirements are needed to develop site-specific production recommendations for camelina in the GP. Plant breeding efforts to develop desirable varieties with improved seed yield, oil content and fatty acids composition and tolerance to heat stress needs to be explored. Research efforts into perfecting alternative uses for camelina oil and meal such as using camelina as a drop-in product for adhesives, films, coatings, packing materials and plastics will expand the market beyond biodiesel. An expanded niche market will enhance the economic viability of camelina as a commercial oilseed in the GP.
65 citations
TL;DR: Azotobacter is a free-living N 2 - fixer diazotroph that has several beneficial effects on the crop growth and yield and helps in synthesis of growth regulating substances like auxins, cytokinin and Giberellic Acid (GA).
Abstract: In the preset context, the best alternative of chemical fertilizer is necessary because of its adverse effects on the soil health. There are several alternatives available to enhance the soil fertility one of them is Azotobacter. It is a free-living N 2 - fixer diazotroph that has several beneficial effects on the crop growth and yield. It helps in synthesis of growth regulating substances like auxins, cytokinin and Giberellic Acid (GA). In addition, it stimulates rhizospheric microbes, protects the plants from phyto-pathogens, improves nutrient uptake and ultimately boost up biological nitrogen fixation. The abundance of these bacteria in soil is related to many factors, mostly soil pH and fertility.
56 citations
TL;DR: This report gives an overview of the recent literature on the plants resistance limitation, physiological mechanism and symptoms of nutrient elements, salinity, drought and biotic stresses and identifies several prospects for future researches aiming to improve the product resistance to the stress conditions.
Abstract: Considering increasing world population plants cultivation expanded in many poor areas. One of the most popular stress in soils is nutrient element depression. Moreover salinity and drought stress nowadays increased in the world. In order to improve plants tolerance to these conditions it necessary to realize plant mechanism under abiotic and biotic stresses. Plant tolerance to these stresses is dependent to their genetics, environmental situation and the combination of these two elements. This report gives an overview of the recent literature on the plants resistance limitation, physiological mechanism and symptoms of nutrient elements, salinity, drought and biotic stresses. The review will conclude by identifying several prospects for future researches aiming to improve the product resistance to the stress conditions.
47 citations
TL;DR: In Ethiopia, lentil has received little attention in research, development and external fund attraction, so it is essential to work with federal and regional seed enterprises, farmers’ cooperatives, unions, and seed producing farmers in a coordinated manner to ensure adequate supply of locally certified seeds.
Abstract: Lentil is among the oldest domesticated crop in the world. It is a cool season food legume playing a significant role in human and animal nutrition as well as soil fertility maintenance. It can be grown in rotation to cereal crops which promote sustainable cereal-based production systems with a potential of fixing free nitrogen reached up to 107 kg ha-1. It is the most important crop because of its high protein content and fast cooking characteristic. The major lentilgrowing countries are Canada, India, Turkey, Australia, USA, Nepal, China, and Ethiopia. Lentils have an indeterminate growth habit and flowering begins from the lowest branches, gradually moving up the plant and continuing until harvest. It is well adapted to various soil types and also considered as drought-resistant crop. But it is susceptible to excessive water stress. World lentil production has been increasing in recent years with most of the production coming from North American and Asian countries. Productivity of lentil in Ethiopia varies from region to region due to variation in environment and biotic factors. Currently, lentil is considered as a cash crop that fetches higher price compared to most of the cereals and pulses grown in Ethiopia. It is often claimed that, the internal (local) market seriously competes with the external market. Lentil has huge potential of reducing poverty and contributes to sustainable economic development in Ethiopia. Despite the country’s potential and sustained development efforts to get the pulse sub-sector moving, the competitiveness of lentil and hence its contribution to economic development is threatened by low productivity and inconsistent supply of products that does not met both export quality and quantity. On the other hand, the ever increasing population and ever changing client demand of lentil is the good opportunity for boosting production at farm level. In Ethiopia, lentil has received little attention in research, development and external fund attraction. Thus, it is essential to work with federal and regional seed enterprises, farmers’ cooperatives, unions, and seed producing farmers with involvement of private sectors in a coordinated manner to ensure adequate supply of locally certified seeds. It is also necessary to develop recommendations for organic and inorganic fertilizers that are most suitable for lentil production. These recommendations will depend on soil maps and controlled trials of blended fertilizers to determine the optimal balance of macro- and micronutrients. Providing of effective extension service is inevitable to break the existing resistance by awareness creation through demonstration at farmers training centers. Complementary lentil technologies including tillage frequency, seed treatment, planting techniques, genetically improve seed, pests and weed management practices have to be provide to boost production. Indeterminate growth habits of lentil makes not to mature at the same time and brought sever shattering problems before harvest. Harvesting while it is still green is recommended as one option to reduce shattering. Research on the development and promotion of tools (harvester) that would enable farmers to harvest lentil on time is important. Increasing farmers’ access to price information, increase the transparency of the market and would enable farmers make better selling decisions and provide increased bargaining power. The establishment of strong linkage among producers, suppliers, consumers, processors, whole sellers, and retailers is inevitable to begin value chain. A review has been made for boosting production and creating the demand for the use of improved technology keeping in view the enormous contribution of lentil for food and nutritional security.
44 citations
TL;DR: This review is focused on recent studies that have described the role, distribution and structure of PR-10 genes in plant genomes and the possibility to use this knowledge for genetic improvement of plant resistance to pathogens through classical breeding approach or transgenic technology is discussed.
Abstract: One of the most represented group of Pathogenesis Related (PR) genes are those of the PR-10 class. PR-10 proteins are members of multi genic family, and they often occur in clusters at specific loci following gene duplication and amplification events. To date, large number of PR-10 genes have been cloned and characterized in different species in response to abiotic and biotic stress. This review is focused on recent studies that have described the role, distribution and structure of PR-10 genes in plant genomes. Recent findings have provided insights into the functional roles of PR-10 proteins as ribonuclease, as cytokinin-specific binding proteins, a mammalian lipid transport and plant abscisic acid (ABA) receptor proteins, or as enzyme, (S)-norco claurine synthase. PR-10 proteins are differentially expressed in the presence of different signaling molecules, biotic stresses such as fungal, viral and bacterial pathogens and a number of abiotic stresses. The possibility to use this knowledge for genetic improvement of plant resistance to pathogens through classical breeding approach or transgenic technology is discussed.
35 citations
TL;DR: By exploiting available genetic information and continuously improving techniques and strategies, integrated functional genomics alongside bioinformatics will provide a foundation for further in-depth functional studies of stress tolerance in plants.
Abstract: Abiotic stresses, such as drought, temperature extremes and salinity, are the major constraints on crop yield and quality in fields. Transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics have been employed to improve understanding of the biological processes and molecular/cellular mechanisms involved in plant stress responses. Over the last several decades, in the light of research carried out using different omics approaches, various stress related mechanisms have been proposed for the development of tolerant varieties. Integrated use of functional genomics helps in understanding the relationship between an organism’s genome and their phenotype under different environmental conditions. By exploiting available genetic information and continuously improving techniques and strategies, integrated functional genomics alongside bioinformatics will provide a foundation for further in-depth functional studies of stress tolerance in plants.
25 citations
TL;DR: An overall summary of benefits seen in the cultivation of rice, sugarcane and various vegetables using cartridges containing pellets of heated ground volcanic rocks is provided.
Abstract: This paper describes practical applications of a new paradigm regarding benefits of using specifically activated water in agriculture. As explained elsewhere, certain water activating processes result in the loosening of intermolecular hydrogen bonding of water molecules that is seemingly mediated by an environmental force, tentatively termed KELEA (Kinetic Energy Limiting Electrostatic Attraction). While regular water does not directly absorb KELEA from the environment, the energy force can be transferred into nearby water by certain dipolar compounds, as well as by other methods. Once the water is sufficiently activated, its separated charges can directly absorb KELEA from the environment, leading to further activation. The activation can progressively extend to added water, which when utilized in agriculture can lead to improved quantity, quality and disease resistance of crops. These benefits occur through an enhanced alternative cellular energy (ACE) pathway. The use of activated water also reduces the requirements for fertilizers and pesticides. This article provides an overall summary of benefits seen in the cultivation of rice, sugarcane and various vegetables using cartridges containing pellets of heated ground volcanic rocks. The preliminary data are presented in support of further studies towards the eventual widespread beneficial use of activated water in agriculture.
19 citations
TL;DR: The overall response of less efficient maize genotype Harsha with elevated CO 2 concentration was found to be significantly high especially the grain yield and its components, indicating that influence of elevated CO2 was there on partitioning of biomass of this C 4 crop.
Abstract: Three contrasting maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes- DHM-117 (single cross hybrid), Varun (synthetic) and Harsha (composite) with different yield potentials were selected to assess their growth and yield performance at ambient (390ppm) and elevated (550ppm) CO2 condition in Open Top Chamber (OTC) facility. The phenology, biomass accumulation, grain yield and HI was quantified of these three maize genotypes at both CO 2 levels. The phenology of flowering was early by 1.5 to 2 days, while the anthesis silking interval (ASI) was not influenced by elevated CO 2 in DHM-117 and Varun, where as it was reduced by two days in Harsha. Response of selected three maize genotypes was different to elevated CO 2 (550ppm) condition in terms of biomass, grain yield and HI. The improvement in biomass ranged from 32% to 47%, grain yield 46% to 127% with 550ppm CO2 as compared with ambient control. The improvement in grain yield was due to increased grain number (25-72%) as well as improved test weight (8-60%). The overall response of less efficient maize genotype Harsha with elevated CO 2 concentration was found to be significantly high especially the grain yield and its components. Elevated CO 2 also improved the maize HI (11% to 68%) indicating that influence of elevated CO2 was there on partitioning of biomass of this C 4 crop.
19 citations
TL;DR: The results showed that south and southwestern areas were highly suitable and moderately suitable for wheat cultivation and these zones had enough rainfall (>400 mm) and high fertility.
Abstract: In the recent study, ecological zoning of wheat has been determined using Geographic Information System (GIS) and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methods in Golestan province located in north of Iran. At first, agro ecological requirements of crop was identified from scientific resources then classified and required thematic maps were provided. In this study environmental components were including: average, minimum and maximum temperatures, precipitation, slope, slope aspects, elevation and soil characteristics such as organic matter, pH, EC, texture, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, iron and zinc. The AHP was used to determine the weight of criteria. The digital environmental layers overlaid and integrated in GIS media then zoning of lands was done in 4 classes, including highly suitable, moderately suitable, less suitable and not-suitable. The results showed that south and southwestern areas were highly suitable and moderately suitable for wheat cultivation. These zones had enough rainfall (>400 mm) and high fertility. The less suitable and non-suitable regions are located in the north and northeast parts of Golestan province. In these areas the limitation factors were including: high EC, low precipitation and deficient of nutrition elements.
14 citations
TL;DR: The results of the study revealed that the physical and chemical properties of the soils are highly variable to each other which disagrees the blanket rate of fertilizer recommendation throughout the country.
Abstract: A fresh soil profile pit was opened and representative soil samples were collected from the profile and surface (0-15 cm) soil of the experimental area to characterize the fertility status of the soils of the study area on the base of selected physicochemical properties. The soil textural class of the surface layer (0-25 cm) of the profile and the mean composite surface (0-15 cm) soil samples of the experimental field was clay loam while it was clay for the subsurface (25-150+ cm) layers of the profile. The bulk density values of the layers in the profile varied consistently with depth ranging from 1.18 g cm-3 at the surface layer to 1.32 g cm-3 at the bottom layer while the average bulk densities of experimental field. The bulk and particle density values increased consistently with depth of the profile ranging from 1.18 to 1.32 and 2.51 to 2.85 g cm-3, respectively. The organic matter (0.05 to 4.39%), available P (0.86 to 22.50 mg kg-1) and total N (0.03 to 0.23%) of the soil profile decreased consistently with depth. Both the profile and the composite surface soil sample indicated that the soil of the site was slightly acidic to moderately alkaline in reaction (6.5 to 8.20). The soil exchange complex was mainly dominated by Ca and Mg where the order of occurrence was Ca > Mg >K > Na. The CEC values were very high ranging from 41.42 to 50.37 c mol (+) kg-1. The results of the study revealed that the physical and chemical properties of the soils are highly variable to each other which disagrees the blanket rate of fertilizer recommendation throughout the country. The turning point to solve the problems should be restoring, maintaining and increasing the fertility status of the soils. These phenomena necessitate soil-crop specific fertilizer recommendation. Therefore, the existing soil fertility problems should be addressed sooner by introducing/developing resistant crop varieties, applying organic and inorganic fertilizers, and other soil fertility management options.
TL;DR: Optimization and standardization of protocol for induction of callus and regeneration of whole plantlets was established through in vitro culture of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) by using shoot tip as an explant and the multiple shoot regeneration at various frequencies was observed.
Abstract: Saccharum officinarum is an important sugarcane variety in Tamil Nadu. In our present study to optimization and standardization of protocol for induction of callus and regeneration of whole plantlets was established through in vitro culture of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) by using shoot tip as an explant. The multiple shoot regeneration at various frequencies was observed by using different concentration and combination of growth regulators containing MS medium. The highest percentage of callus induction was observed in MS medium supplemented with 2.5 mg/L, 2-4 D. The best response in terms of multiple shoot induction was observed on MS medium supplemented with BAP 2.0 mg/L + IBA 0.5 mg/L. When in vitro shoot lets were inoculated on to the half-strength semi solid MS medium supplemented with 2.5 mg/L NAA, rooting was more profuse. Rooted shoots were transplanted in the green house for hardening and their survival rate was 85% in the field condition.
TL;DR: The present paper provides a brief overview of the medicinal benefits of some important endemic herbal plants of Iran that contain powerful active components that might be effective for increasing human health.
Abstract: Bioactive compounds of medicinal herbs have possible health benefits with antioxidative, anticarcinogenic, antihypertensive, antimutagenic and antimicrobial activities. Iranian folk medicine is rich of various herbs which have been employed as drug for treatment of various diseases and disorders since ancient times. The present paper provides a brief overview of the medicinal benefits of some important endemic herbal plants of Iran. Studies on these herbs have revealed that they contain powerful active components that might be effective for increasing human health. The main results of the most important recently researches on the medicinal properties of these plants also mentioned in this review paper.
TL;DR: It is expressed the opinion that the medicinal properties of plants such as Moringa oleifera are mediated in large part by their capacity to capture KELEA from the environment and transfer the absorbed energy to water.
Abstract: Throughout history certain plants have been identified as having rather remarkable medical benefits often covering a wide range of illnesses. A prominent example is the Moringa oleifera tree. Consumption of the leaves of this tree is stated to reduce the severity of over one hundred different diseases. While undoubtedly a rich source of nutrients, the observed clinical benefits cannot easily be explained in terms of regular cellular biochemistry. An alternative cellular energy (ACE) pathway has been differentiated from the photosynthetic process of plants (and certain bacteria) and from the cellular energy obtained from food metabolism. The ACE pathway is envisioned as an inducible dynamic quality of the body’s fluids resulting from the absorption of an environmental force termed KELEA (kinetic energy limiting electrostatic attraction). This paper expresses the opinion that the medicinal properties of plants such as Moringa oleifera are mediated in large part by their capacity to capture KELEA from the environment and transfer the absorbed energy to water. This explanation is consistent with the planned productive use of extracts of Moringa oleifera leaves and seeds in agriculture.
TL;DR: The aim of this study was to develop an EC test protocol to determine vigour of maize seeds by analysing the results of several studies related to those factors which affect the test results.
Abstract: the EC test results such as differences in the amount of electrolyte leakage in different species. In this context, several studies have been reported related to those factors which affect the test results such as test period,3 temperature4 seed moisture content,5 seed size,6 seed amounts per sample and rinsing requirements.7 Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop an EC test protocol to determine vigour of maize seeds.
TL;DR: Biocontrol potential of entomopathogenic fungi Nomuraea Rileyi F Samson against groundnut defoliator Spodoptera litura Fab lepidoptera Noctuidae was investigated and N rileyi SSK isolate was isolated from local groundnut field soil adopting soil dilution method.
Abstract: Biopesticides based on bacteria viruses entomopathogenic fungi and nematodes are often considerable scope as plant protection agents against several insects Use of entomopathogenic fungi as biological control agents for insect species has increased the global attention during the last few decades in the present study biocontrol potential of entomopathogenic fungi Nomuraea Rileyi F Samson against groundnut defoliator Spodoptera litura Fab lepidoptera Noctuidae was investigated Nomuraea Rileyi SSK isolate was isolated from local groundnut field soil adopting soil dilution method and the isolate was identified based on the cultural and morphological characteristics Effect of N rileyi on the cumulative larval mortality lethal concentration LC lethal time LT total larval and pupal period pupal adult emergence and adult longevity were studied All the life stages of S litura were susceptible to N rileyi In general the concentration duration and life stage dependent mortality could be observed The LC and LT values were increased as the larvae grew older As the instars advanced a decrease in mortality and an increase in time for the mortality were recorded Distinct effect on the development revealed short larval and pupal period Adult emergence and adult longevity was highly influenced
TL;DR: It is indicated that intercropping system and lower plant density up to 30 000 plants ha-1 of maize had the potential of improving crop productivity and soil fertility status depending on the climate and available N in the soil.
Abstract: Field experiments were carried out at three localities in North West and Limpopo provinces at South Africa to assess the effects of planting density and planting patterns and their interaction effects on residual soil nutrient contents in maize/ cowpea (M/C) sole and intercropped systems. The trial consisted of four planting densities (10000; 20000; 30000 and 40000 plants ha -1 ) and six planting patterns (1 rowM:1rowC; 1rowM:2rowsC; 2rowsM:2rowsC; 2rowM:4rowC; sole maize and sole cowpeas) at three sites. The experiment was a split-plot incorporated in randomized complete block design with four replications where maize plant density was the main factor and subplot factor was the planting pattern. The obtained results were as following: 1) Maize N, P, K, Ca and Mg concentration level showed a decreased pattern as the planting density increased at both trial sites. 2) Maize N content in planting density ranged from 1.28 to 1.65% at both locations. 3) Plant density of 10 000 plants ha -1 had higher N yield of maize by 22 and 11% relative to 40 000 plants ha-1 at Potchefstroom and Taung, respectively. However, N concentration in maize was significant at Taung, the 2rowsM:4rowsC pattern had higher N concentration and was 1.75% compared to all other intercropping planting patterns and sole maize. 4) The interaction of all intercropping planting patterns and plant density of 10 000 plants ha -1 gave higher nutrient concentration level than at higher plant density. 5) Sole cowpea had higher residual soil N-NO3- yield of 1.92, 1.66 and 1.23 mgkg -1 , whereas residual soil N-NH +4 was 3.28, 3.44 and 3.34 mgkg -1 at Syferkuil, Potchefstroom and Taung, respectively, compared to all intercropping planting patterns and sole maize. 6) Cowpea has the ability to fix atmospheric N into the soil for subsequent crop use. and 7) The study indicates that intercropping system and lower plant density up to 30 000 plants ha-1 of maize had the potential of improving crop productivity and soil fertility status depending on the climate and available N in the soil.
TL;DR: Indian Valerian (Valeriana jatamansi Jones), newly introduced endangered medicinal plant in North Eastern Himalayan region to the hilly region of West Bengal was conserved in field gene banks in Kalimpong regional research station for its highly active medicinal properties.
Abstract: Indian Valerian (Valeriana jatamansi Jones), newly introduced endangered medicinal plant in North Eastern Himalayan region to the hilly region of West Bengal (Kalimpong 27.06°N 88.47°E) was conserved in field gene banks in Kalimpong regional research station for its highly active medicinal properties. The plant is known to be short medicinal herb and has distinct dimorphism in the floral biology and gynodioecious character. The plants were found to have flowering period in between January to April which was otherwise found in North Western Himalayas as per reports. The plants were found to have major active phytochemicals in the roots and rhizomes responsible for preventing epilepsy, snake and scorpion bite, cholera, dementia, nerve diseases of human beings. Conservation of this plant should be carefully taken in order to avoid the genetic drift and depletion of genetic base in any ex situ conservation worldwide.
TL;DR: The antimicrobial potential of eight selected medicinal plants was evaluated against medically important thirteen pathogenic bacteria and three pathogenic fungi by using disc diffusion method and the free radical scavenging activity was investigated for the development of anti-aging ingredient as a raw product for the cosmetic and other industries.
Abstract: The antimicrobial potential of eight selected medicinal plants was evaluated against medically important thirteen pathogenic bacteria and three pathogenic fungi by using disc diffusion method. Moreover, the free radical scavenging activity was investigated for the development of anti-aging ingredient as a raw product for the cosmetic and other industries. Petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, methanol, butanol, n-hexane water extracts of medicinal plants were used for antimicrobial and anti-oxidant investigation. The rapid evaluation of antioxidant activity of different crude extracts of Pouzolzia zeylanica, Equisetum debile, Memecylon umbellatum, Datura metel, Cauroupeta guianensis, Andrographis paniculata were determined by using DPPH free radical method. The microbial inhibition zone ranged from 7-15 mm for different extracts of Andrographis paniculata where ethyl acetate extract showed highest microbial inhibition. The petroleum ether extract of D. metel gave 9-10 mm microbial inhibition except Pseudomonas aureus. Aloe vera gave 7-9 mm inhibition against microorganism by ethyl acetate extract. The methanol extract of A. paniculata showed inhibition only against two gram-positive and five gram-negative bacteria. The methanol extract of P. zeylanica, M. umbellatum and butanol (n-BuOH) extract of A. vasica also showed different range of antimicrobial activity. The N-hexane extract of A. vera and A. vasica and methanol extract of Equisetum debile did not show any antimicrobial activity. These extracts resulted in a rapid increase and decrease of the absorbance and showed different hydrogen-donating capacity towards the 2, 2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical. A lot of differences found and showing anti-oxidant activity of different solvent extracts of different plant species. Among the species, ethyl acetate extract of E. debile, M. umbellatum, methanol extract of M. umbellatum, C. guianensis and n-BuOH extract of M. umbellatum, C. guianensis showed the maximum scavenging capacity of over 80.
TL;DR: Beneficial bacteria are a plausible alternative for a sustainable disease control in cotton due to reports of efficacy loss or activity on nontarget microorganisms.
Abstract: Under conventional seed treatment, reports of efficacy loss or activity on nontarget microorganisms foster the search for sustainable disease management alternatives. Biological seed treatment has been meeting these requirements and exerts benefits that go beyond plant health. Looking for those alternatives, 368 Endospore-forming bacterial strains were screened for the control of bacterial blight and damping-off, caused by Xanhomonas axonopodis pv. malvacearum and Colletotrichum gossypii var. cephalosporioides, respectively. From the sampled sites, the strains with the highest bacterial blight and damping-off control were obtained from Primavera do Leste and Campo Verde (MT), respectively. Those had the potential to control both diseases were obtained from Primavera do Leste. Consistent disease control with seed treatment was found with two strains: Bacillus subtilis UFLA285 and Paenibacillus lentimorbus MEN2 with disease symptoms reduced by 45 and 56%, respectively for damping-off and 26 and 76%, respectively for bacterial blight. Therefore beneficial bacteria are a plausible alternative for a sustainable disease control in cotton.
TL;DR: The idea behind this was to improve agriculture production and productivity by increasing the adoption rates of technologies for underutilised crops that are otherwise important for climate change adaptation and food security as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Since the establishment of the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute (ZARI) in 1953 formerly called Soils and Crops Research Branch (SCRB), the Sorghum and Millets Improvement Programme (SMIP) at ZARI has been utilizing conventional breeding methodologies to disseminate agricultural technologies. The introduction of the Cytoplasmic Male Sterility (CMS) in the early 80s as a way to accelerate seed production of new plant varieties was full of optimism. When the CMS system was first introduced, hopes were very high for rapid progress in hybrid seed production and so were the hopes for high technology adoption rates of new varieties. However, despite the breeding efforts, the adoption rates of new plant varieties have been modest especially for hybrids. Some of the failures have been attributed to the top down approach, where the development of a variety starts with a breeder and then ends up in the hands of a farmer. In certain instances this methodology has worked perfectly as is the case for maize, if supported by the policy frame works. In order to encourage utilisation of proven technologies from agricultural research, innovative methods have had to be adopted since 2007 using a concept called Participatory Pre-Breeding and Variety Selection. This is a borrowed concept from social scientists on participatory rural appraisal to bring about rural agriculture development. The idea behind this was to improve agriculture production and productivity by increasing the adoption rates of technologies for underutilised crops that are otherwise important for climate change adaptation and food security. This was done by evolving major stakeholders in the developmental and dissemination process. The selection process of promising varieties started in farmers’ fields, if at all they saw the need for the technology. Sometimes the technology adoption process was driven by the demand for a particular variety of sorghum by companies requiring malting. This way, farmers had an incentive to adopt a variety easily because there was a market for it. This process was then facilitated by all stakeholders to make sure that is the technologies desired on the market or by the farmers were delivered. This approach lead to the release of a red sorghum variety (ZSV-36R) that was otherwise underutilised before this approach was implemented.
TL;DR: The analysis of Pratylenchus zeae which in Europe was only reported in Bulgaria and most recently in Slovenia, Austria, Croatia and Turkey, shows that the pest can become established upon introduction through plant and plant materials moving in trade in Belgium and not in the Netherlands although its effect on crop yield maybe low due to cooler climates obtainable in this areas.
Abstract: A pest risk assessment (PRA) was carried out on Pratylenchus zeae on maize as host in Belgium and the Netherlands as the pest risk assessment areas where the organism is yet to be reported owing to potential phytosanitary concerns that its introduction to this areas might cause economically. To assess the potential geographic distribution of the pest in the study areas and other areas in Europe out of its current areas of occurrence, two tools were used for the study; CLIMEX, a computer simulation model and the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization PRA guidelines to see if the pests can be introduced and established in the pest risk assessment areas. Geographic distribution data for P. zeae in its current locations were used to fit parameter values in the CLIMEX program. The CLIMEX analysis suggests that P. zeae can potentially become introduced in one of the study area and other parts of Europe and other climatically suitable regions of the world. The conclusion from the study was based on the combination of the results from both CLIMEX and the PRA guidelines since the use of only one may not give very reliable results. CLIMEX works mainly with climatological data while the PRA guidelines involve the use of biological data for which most are not available for the organisms. The analysis of Pratylenchus zeae which in Europe was only reported in Bulgaria and most recently in Slovenia, Austria, Croatia and Turkey, shows that the pest can become established upon introduction through plant and plant materials moving in trade in Belgium and not in the Netherlands although its effect on crop yield maybe low due to cooler climates obtainable in this areas. Because of its very low impact after introduction, the pest does not have the characteristics of a quarantine organism.
TL;DR: Further research on selected sweet potato varieties and optimum N fertilization was conducted in Field 2 of University Putra Malaysia that specifically determining tuber yield and its nutritive quality (carbohydrate, total sugar, and β-carotene) and its selected plant parameters.
Abstract: Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L) Lam) that able to thrive in the tropical harsh condition is one of the vital commodities to small scale farmers. With more than 6,500 wild, traditional and improved varieties globally and the importance of nitrogen (N) fertilization in producing high yield of quality tuber in the tropical region, further research on selected sweet potato varieties and optimum N fertilization was conducted in Field 2 of University Putra Malaysia (UPM) that specifically determining tuber yield and its nutritive quality (carbohydrate, total sugar, and β-carotene) and its selected plant parameters. Five varieties (labeled as A, B, C, D, and E for accessions E10073, E10236, E10136, E10173, and E10051, respectively) at four N application rates (0, 17, 34, and 68 kg ha -1 ) were used in the 2-factorial experiment with a split plot design. With generally of no N*varieties interaction effect on all parameters, the N rate for optimum yield determined by regression method was 45 kg N ha -1 . At this N rate, the resulted high yielder varieties were E and D with estimated yields of 15.1 and 14.5 t ha -1 respectively. The medium yielders were A (13.1 t ha -1 ) and C (12.7 t ha -1 ), while the low yielder was B (11.6 t ha -1 ). The LAI and photosynthetic rate for obtaining higher yield at the N rate were > 1.6 units and > 37 u moles m -2 s -1 respectively. Much higher leaves relative to stem did not cause the Peru originated variety (C) had higher yield than those of the high yielder Malaysian varieties. The high yielder E (E 10051) had carbohydrate, total sugar and β-carotene of 22.4%, 8.3%, 9248 ug g -1 , respectively, while the respective values for the medium yielder B (E 10236 ) were 24.1%, 8.0% and 7448 ug g -1 . Other varieties had minimal β-carotene of < 16 ug g -1
TL;DR: Noticeable, additional reduction caused in nitrate concentrations, soluble and insoluble oxalates, highest concentrations of vitamins C and B9 as well as minerals contents in leaves by conjunction mixture with nitrification inhibitor (nitrapyrin).
Abstract: Vegetables spinach (Spinaciaoleracea L.), represents good sources of vitamins B and C as well as minerals such as iron, calcium and magnesium, besides the dietary fibers, nitrate and oxalate, which usually affected by both N rate and form. Therefore, pot experiments were carried out in green house of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine Experiment Station, Qassim University to find ways to prevent undesirably high nitrate and oxalate contents. However, increasing useful compounds such as vitamins and minerals were also considered. The treatments included two nitrogen sources viz., recommended dose (100%) of nitrate (NO 3 -) and ammonia (NH 4 +), 50% of each sole or in combination with or without nitrification inhibitor (2-chloro-6-trichloro-methyl-pyridine-nitrapyrin). Results were noticed that nitrate and oxalate concentrations in spinach leaves were reduced by application 50% /50% N mixture compared with higher rates of each. Noticeable, additional reduction caused in nitrate concentrations, soluble and insoluble oxalates, highest concentrations of vitamins C and B9 as well as minerals contents (Ca, K and Fe) in leaves by conjunction mixture with nitrification inhibitor (nitrapyrin). Although highlight results obtained herein, more studies are needed to find out the recommendation can followed by farmers.
TL;DR: Results indicated that the cultivars Sunrise, Capricorn, Bilstar, Virgo and Taurus were the most adapted cultivars for high potential environments.
Abstract: Flax (Linum ustatissimum L.) is a multipurpose crop cultivated for both the fibre in the stem (fibre flax) or for its oil pressed from the seed (linseed). The natural qualities of flax make it a desirable commodity for manufacturers seeking alternative solutions to chemical and plastic-based products. As there is no production of flax in South Africa, ten linseed cultivars were imported from the Netherlands and the United Kingdom and evaluated for their adaptability under South African conditions. These cultivars were planted during the 2005 to 2009 season at six different localities (environments) in the Western Cape Province under rain fed conditions. The localities were, Bredasdorp, Caledon, Elsenburg, Koringberg, Langgewens and Napier. The Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) statistical method as well as the PCA (Principal Component Analysis) model were used to describe cultivar environment interaction on grain yield. Results indicated that the cultivars Sunrise, Capricorn, Bilstar, Virgo and Taurus were the most adapted cultivars for high potential environments.
TL;DR: The extract of the marigold plant has the active ingredient ‘Alpha-terthienyl’ that plays important role in reducing nematodes and production of healthy plants.
Abstract: Root-knot nematodes, ring nematodes, lesion nematodes are the major limiting factor in grapevine and vegetable production in many regions of the world. These nematodes cause significant economic damaged to wide variety of crops. Infected crops showed decrease in yield and quality either directly from root deformation caused by nematodes feeding or indirectly from predisposition to infections by other pathogens that results from nematode penetration into the roots. For the management of these nematodes, botanical plant species of Marigold (Tagetes minuta) was assessed under the field assay and pot assay. The extract of this marigold plant was applied in different concentrations as soil drench in the pots. The different concentrations added in the pots as soil drench were 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%. The extract of the marigold plant has the active ingredient ‘Alpha-terthienyl’ that plays important role in reducing nematodes and production of healthy plants.
TL;DR: Investigation of tillage practices in this agricultural region suggests that high density crops like winter wheat, spring barley and oilseed rape are relatively suitable crops for growing under reduced tillage systems.
Abstract: Within soil degradation processes soil erosion is on the first place, as consequence of improper land man-agement, first of all soil tillage system and practices. Results of 10 years (1995-2004) of our investigation (investigation endure now 21st year) show guidelines in tillage practices. At first; traditional tillage practiced in this agricultural region up/down the slope on Stagnogley on slopes of 9 % and more is unsustainable in growing of row crops-maize and soybean, because of disastrous or extreme soil erosion. But, in growing of crops of high density, like wheat this practice is sustainable. On the other side, No-tillage and contour tillage resulted in much lower water erosion in comparison with up/down the slope tillage. At the beginning of experiment in the first two years No-tillage as system was not sustainable. Stabilization of yields of growing crops on the level which is statistically the same or higher than on other tillage treatments on notillage plot started after ten years of no-tillage practice. These investigations suggest the conclusion that high density crops like winter wheat, spring barley and oilseed rape are relatively suitable crops for growing under reduced tillage systems. Soybean tolerates no-till practices in climatically favourable years, but with higher risk in dry years. Maize was shown as a very risky crop without tillage even in climatically average years. We agree with assertion of Solbrig [1] that no tillage is a process, a new philosophy and way of thinking in arable farming of Europe, and not a technology.
TL;DR: Reinforcement of their domestication through standardization of cultivation practices, facilitation for supply of planting material and increasing the demands for the produce by exploring their uses, creation of awareness among consumers and establishing a good distribution network are crucial for attaining sustainability.
Abstract: India, the centre of origin for many tropical fruit tree species, most of which are not commercially cultivated but provides significant source of livelihood support for many rural communities. The tribal inhabitants of Western Ghats, Maharashtra and North Eastern States of India were traditionally reliant on non-timber forest products and favoured local fruit species like tamarind (Tamarindusindica),jackfruit(Artocarpusheterophyllus), Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis), ber (Zizyphus mauritiana), etc., instead of arable food crops apart from mango and cashew, for establishing agri-horti-forestry for their livelihoods. Innumerable wild species of Citrus, Musa, Pyrusand Maluswere also prevalent in the North Eastern regions. Conversely, most of these species are in a state of neglect, while a trivial number of them are under cultivation in their native tracts by local communities for specific household uses only. These species were rendered “Underutilized” by the fact that even though they are locally abundant, they are restricted to their geographical location with dearth of scientific knowledge about them, and their current use is linked to their economic potential. These species were immensely constructive by surviving harsh agro-climatic conditions, and can be established on degraded lands, which are presently being underutilized either due to poor soil fertility or moisture scarcity. Due to unsustainable market pressures and rapid urbanization, majority of these species have come to near extinction. A holistic approach is hence proposed which includes both in-situ and ex-situ conservation strategies, as well as re-governance of the market chain. Reinforcement of their domestication through standardization of cultivation practices, facilitation for supply of planting material and increasing the demands for the produce by exploring their uses, creation of awareness among consumers and establishing a good distribution network are also crucial for attaining sustainability.
TL;DR: Through implementing EBCSTS, it is possible to protect and maintain soil qualities for sustainable soil management and cropping practices in the area and improvement in the soil quality was due to the presence of less soil disturbance coupled with higher addition of organic matter (SOM) in the land.
Abstract: With the objectives of assessing the variation of soil quality indicators; two land use types: Enset based conservation tillage system (EBCSTS) and Cereal based conventional tillage system (CBCVTS) were selected in Gedeo zone, Bule woreda, Southern Ethiopia. A total of 48 composite and undisturbed (for bulk density determination) soil samples (2 land use types_4 blocks_3 replication_2 soil depth: 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm) were collected for laboratory analysis. The result showed that soil textural fractions (sand, p<0.001; silt, p = 0.003 and clay = p = 0.001) and soil pH (p<0.001) significantly varied with land use types. Moreover, soil moisture content (p<0.001), bulk density (p = 0.016, p = 0.002), SOC (p<0.001), TN (p<0.001) and CEC (p<0.001, p = 0.001) have shown significant variation with land use types and soil depth respectively. Sand and clay were higher in EBCSTS and CBCVTS, respectively. Higher amount of sand fraction was observed under 0-15 cm on EBCSTS and 15-30 cm on CBCVTS land use types. Lower soil bulk density (g cm -3 ) and higher amount of SOC (%), TN (%), soil pH, CEC (meq/100g soil) and SMC (%) were observed at 0–15 cm soil layer under the EBCSTS. Soil bulk density (g cm -3 ), soil pH and SMC (%) increased while SOC (%), CEC (meq/100g soil) and TN (%) decreased with soil depth in both land use types. Improvement in the soil quality under EBCSTS was due to the presence of less soil disturbance coupled with higher addition of organic matter (SOM) in the soil. Thus, through implementing EBCSTS, it is possible to protect and maintain soil qualities for sustainable soil management and cropping practices in the area.