Understanding soil water availability is critical for sustainable land management in tropical agricultural systems, particularly in Inceptisols that often exhibit inherent physical constraints. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of soil physical properties and organic matter on available water under different land uses. The study was conducted in a representative Inceptisol landscape in Beji District, Pasuruan, Indonesia. Soil samples were collected from four land use types at two depths (0–30 cm and 30–60 cm), and key properties including bulk density, porosity, texture, and soil organic matter were analyzed along with soil water retention characteristics. The results showed that available water content was consistently low across all land uses, with values generally below 10%, and no significant differences were observed among land use types (p > 0.05). In contrast, soil properties exhibited significant relationships with available water. Soil organic matter and porosity were positively associated with water availability, whereas bulk density showed a negative relationship. Multiple regression analysis indicated that these variables jointly explained a substantial proportion of the variation in available water. These findings suggest that intrinsic soil properties, particularly soil physical characteristics and organic matter, play a more dominant role than land use in regulating water availability in Inceptisols. Improving soil organic matter may be more effective for enhancing soil water availability than changing land use.
Limited understanding of genotype-dependent responses to nutrient enrichment remains a key constraint in optimizing melon production under dynamic root floating hydroponic systems. This study evaluated genotype-dependent growth and fruit quality responses of melon (Cucumis melo L.) to potassium nitrate (KNO₃) supplementation under a dynamic root floating technique (DRFT) hydroponic system. A two-factor split-plot design with three replications was used, consisting of four KNO₃ doses (0, 2, 4, and 6 g plant⁻¹) and three melon varieties. KNO₃ supplementation significantly affected plant growth, fruit weight, flesh thickness, and sugar content, with the optimal response generally observed at 4 g plant⁻¹. At this level, fruit weight and flesh thickness reached their highest values, while sugar content was maximized in specific varieties, indicating differential genotype performance. Among the tested varieties, Kinanti exhibited superior sugar content, whereas Kirani produced higher fruit weight and flesh thickness. Regression analysis further confirmed an optimal KNO₃ level of approximately 4.25 g plant⁻¹, although the strength of the response varied among parameters. These findings demonstrate that potassium nitrate plays a critical role in enhancing melon productivity under hydroponic conditions, with growth and quality responses strongly influenced by genotype-specific characteristics.
Marigold (Tagetes erecta) is an important ornamental plant valued for its diverse flower colors and morphological variation. Enhancing the genetic variability of this species can be achieved through biotechnological approaches, particularly genetic transformation mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. This study aimed to evaluate an integrated transformation strategy that combines in planta infection with in vitro selection and regeneration in T. erecta. Gene transfer was initiated through in planta infection, followed by hygromycin-based selection and shoot regeneration under in vitro conditions. This approach resulted in a transformation efficiency of 20.93% and a regeneration efficiency of 2.32%, calculated based on the number of hygromycin-resistant explants and regenerated shoots relative to the total number of treated seeds. PCR-based molecular analysis detected the presence of the target gene fragment in putative transformants, suggesting that gene transfer events may have occurred during the transformation process. However, PCR detection alone cannot confirm stable genomic integration or inheritance of the introduced gene. Despite the relatively low regeneration efficiency, the integration of in planta transformation with in vitro selection demonstrates potential as a preliminary strategy for further optimization of transformation protocols in T. erecta, and may support the development of more practical transformation approaches in ornamental plant breeding.
Sweet potato plays an important role in supporting food security, nutrition, and livelihoods in smallholder farming systems across sub-Saharan Africa. Despite its agronomic resilience and socio-economic potential, sweet potato often remains marginalised within local and regional agrifood systems. This article presents a perspective on sweet potato value chains in smallholder contexts, using Zimbabwe as an illustrative setting. Rather than reporting empirical findings, the paper reflects on structural and institutional challenges that constrain value chain performance, particularly weak coordination among actors, limited value addition, and the dominance of informal market arrangements. Drawing on practice-informed insights and existing literature, this perspective argues that conventional value chain interventions that prioritise production gains alone are insufficient. Greater attention is required to address coordination gaps, stakeholder linkages, and enabling environments that shape how value is created and distributed. The article concludes by outlining key considerations for rethinking value chain strategies aimed at enhancing the inclusiveness, resilience, and sustainability of sweet potato-based smallholder systems.
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum L.) is a strategic spice commodity that plays an important role in both domestic consumption and export markets in Indonesia. Despite its high economic value, clove production in Solok Regency has experienced considerable fluctuations in recent years, indicating the presence of production risks that have not been comprehensively identified. This study aims to identify the root causes of production risk in clove farming using a qualitative exploratory approach based on fishbone diagram analysis. The study was conducted in Gunung Talang District, a major clove-producing area in Solok Regency. Primary data were collected through structured surveys and field observations involving 30 purposively selected clove farmers. The results indicate that clove farming serves as a primary livelihood activity and is exposed to multiple interconnected risk factors. A total of 14 sources of production risk were identified and classified into four main categories: natural disasters, human resources, pest and disease attacks, and production facilities and infrastructure. These findings demonstrate that production risks in clove farming are multidimensional and interrelated rather than driven by single factors. This study provides empirical and conceptual insights by developing a root cause–based production risk analysis framework that can support more targeted, contextual, and sustainable risk management strategies for clove farming.
Pineapple peel is an abundant agro-industrial residue with considerable potential for conversion into value-added products within a sustainable waste management framework. This study investigated the production of nata de pina from pineapple peel and evaluated its physicochemical characteristics and economic performance. Pineapple peel extract was inoculated with Acetobacter xylinum and fermented for 14–15 days under controlled laboratory conditions. The resulting nata contained 95.06% moisture, 0.05% ash, 1.56% fat, 0.47% protein, 0.56% crude fiber, and 8.91 mg/100 g reducing sugars. Most physicochemical parameters complied with Indonesian National Standards (SNI); however, the moisture content exceeded the maximum allowable limit (80%), indicating the need for improved post-fermentation handling to enhance product stability, safety, and shelf life. Economic evaluation per production cycle revealed an added value of Rp265,600 with a value-added ratio of 98.37%, while total production costs of Rp390,500 generated a profit of Rp267,000 per cycle. These results demonstrate that pineapple peel is a technically feasible and economically efficient substrate for nata production, supporting its potential application in sustainable, community-based agro-industrial development.
Fusarium spp. are among the most destructive soil-borne fungal pathogens affecting chilli production and remain difficult to control using conventional approaches. This study reports a preliminary in vitro observation of the inhibitory activity of a combined acetogenin–curcumin extract against Fusarium spp. Acetogenin was obtained from soursop leaves (Annona muricata L.), while curcumin was derived from turmeric (Curcuma longa L.). The study involved extract preparation, fungal isolation, functional group identification, and antifungal assays using different extract ratios. Morphological observations confirmed that the isolated pathogen was consistent with Fusarium spp. Among the tested formulations, the extract combination containing 60% acetogenin and 40% curcumin showed the highest inhibitory activity, reducing fungal colony growth by up to 84% compared to the control. These findings provide an initial indication that a combined acetogenin–curcumin extract may enhance in vitro inhibition of Fusarium spp. and support further investigation using replicated assays and extended evaluations.
Bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum remains a major constraint in emprit ginger cultivation, while conventional control strategies are often ineffective and limited by the narrow genetic variability of vegetatively propagated planting materials. This study aimed to induce putative polyploid lines in emprit ginger using colchicine and evaluate the resulting plants’ morphological, physiological, and disease response traits. A factorial randomized block design was employed with six colchicine concentrations (10–100 ppm) and two soaking durations (12 and 36 h). Morphological traits, pigment content, shoot development, germination, and disease response indicators (AUDPC, disease severity, and progression rates) were evaluated. Colchicine treatment significantly enhanced leaf area, plant height, and shoot number, while delaying germination in a dose-dependent manner. Colchicine-treated putative polyploid lines exhibited reduced disease severity and slower progression of bacterial wilt, particularly at moderate colchicine concentrations (10–20 ppm). Although ploidy level was not cytologically confirmed, the observed phenotypic responses are consistent with traits commonly associated with polyploid induction. The results suggest that colchicine-induced putative polyploid lines could offer a practical preliminary approach for improving growth and suppressing bacterial wilt in emprit ginger, thereby supporting the development of more resilient planting materials.
Pakchoi (Brassica rapa L.) is a fast-growing leafy vegetable with high nutritional value, making it an important crop for sustainable vegetable production. However, its cultivation often relies on chemical fertilizers, which are costly and environmentally detrimental. Bio-slurry liquid organic fertilizer (LOF), a nutrient-rich by-product of biogas production, offers a sustainable alternative. This study aimed to evaluate the growth response of pakchoi to different application intervals of bio-slurry LOF to identify the most effective schedule for improving plant performance. A non-factorial completely randomized design was employed with four treatments: P0 (control), P1 (application of 100 ml LOF every 7 days), P2 (every 9 days), and P3 (every 11 days), each replicated six times. Growth parameters, including plant height, leaf number, leaf length, leaf width, and fresh weight, were measured and analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by DMRT at the 5% significance level. Results showed that fertilization every 9 days (P2) produced the highest plant height, leaf number, and fresh weight compared to other treatments. These findings highlight the potential of bio-slurry LOF to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers while enhancing pakchoi growth, thereby supporting sustainable vegetable farming practices.
Soil fertility degradation and limited access to sustainable inputs pose major constraints in marginal agricultural lands. Organic waste leachate, although rich in nutrients, often contains phytotoxic compounds that limit its direct application as fertilizer. This study evaluated the effect of leachate-based liquid organic fertilizer (LOF) on soil fertility and the growth response of chili pepper (Capsicum frutescens) in marginal soils amended with biochar. Four treatments were tested: no LOF, 20% LOF, 40% LOF, and 60% LOF. Soil analysis showed that LOF application improved pH, organic carbon, and macronutrient content (N, P,K), with the highest pH in the 20% LOF treatment and the highest C-organic in the 60% LOF treatment. However, the best plant growth was observed in the control treatment, possibly indicating inhibitory effects of phytotoxic compounds such as phenols and organic acids present in the LOF. Although 20% LOF resulted in the highest fruit weight, differences among treatments were not statistically significant. These results suggest that while leachate-based LOF enhances soil quality, its high concentration may hinder plant growth. The findings support the potential use of leachate as a low-cost nutrient source for sustainable agriculture, provided that proper detoxification and formulation strategies are applied.
Banana (Musa spp.) is a vital agricultural commodity in Indonesia. In Pidie Regency, Aceh, Indonesia, production declined significantly by 46% between 2021 and 2023, partly due to infestations by plant-parasitic nematodes. This study aimed to identify the dominant genera of parasitic nematodes in the kepok banana (Musa acuminata × balbisiana) cultivar grown in Padang Tiji District, Pidie, Indonesia, using soil samples collected from three villages. Four nematode genera were identified: Pratylenchus, Helicotylenchus, Meloidogyne, and Xiphinema. Pratylenchus was dominant in Tunong Tanjong and Keupula Tanjong fields, while Helicotylenchus predominated in Tuha Peudaya. The highest nematode abundance was recorded in the Tunong Tanjong field, averaging 33,973.4 individuals per 10 g of soil. These findings provide valuable baseline data for nematode pest management and support the development of targeted control strategies to enhance sustainable banana cultivation in the region.
Fermentation can be an effective step in addressing postharvest handling challenges and enhancing nutritional value through the conversion of perishable crops into more stable products. One of the traditional fermented foods originating from Kuantan Singingi Regency, Riau Province, Indonesia, is cangkuok semaung (CS). This food is prepared by fermenting all fruit components of the semaung (Pangium edule). This research aimed to isolate and identify lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from CS and investigate their antimicrobial properties. The bacteria were isolated from the food, purified using the quadrant streak method on the De Man–Rogosa–Sharpe agar, and continued with morphological analysis and antimicrobial activities evaluation. The findings of this study revealed that 45 isolates were gram-positive bacteria identified as Lactobacillus sp. Among the LAB isolates, the highest antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Klebsiella pneumoniae were shown by isolates of S12, S14, S27, and S24, respectively. These results suggest that LAB from CS, especially isolates S12 and S14, have promising antimicrobial properties and show potential as probiotic candidates that merit further investigation into possible applications in food and health sectors.
Sugar production in Indonesia has declined in recent years, primarily due to climate change, extreme weather conditions, and the limited availability of high-yielding varieties. This study aimed to evaluate the productivity and genetic variation of seven elite sugarcane clones and two commercial varieties cultivated under dryland grumusol soil conditions. The research was conducted at PT Perkebunan Nusantara X, Sidoarjo, Indonesia, using a randomized block design (RBD) with nine treatments and three replications. Agronomic and yield-related parameters such as plant height, number of stalks, internodes, stalk weight, Brix value, sugar content, and crystal yield were measured. Data were analyzed using ANOVA followed by a 5% LSD test, and correlation analysis was conducted to assess inter-variable relationships. Results showed significant differences among clones in all measured traits. JW01 UMG NX exhibited the highest Brix value (24%), stem weight (106.4 tons/ha), and crystal yield (9.66 tons/ha), while SB20 UMG NX recorded the highest sugar content (9.46%). Positive correlations were observed between stalk weight and Crystal yield, while Brix values were negatively correlated with plant height. These findings indicate that the selected clones possess valuable agronomic traits and adaptability to dryland grumusol soil, making them strong candidates for future variety development
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight can cause skin damage, including premature aging, sunburn, and increased risk of skin cancer. While synthetic sunscreen agents are widely used, concerns over their long-term safety have driven interest in natural alternatives. In this study, curcumin was extracted from turmeric rhizomes (Curcuma longa) using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) as a potential natural sunscreen. The highest yield was obtained using ethanol as solvent (5.5%), 100 watts of microwave power (5.7%), and solvent temperature of 50 °C (7.8%). Curcumin presence was confirmed by thin layer chromatography (TLC), with Rf values from 0.63 (methanol) to 0.82 (ethanol). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy showed functional groups including O–H, C–H, C=C, C=O, and C–O, along with trans-C–H benzoate vibrations. ¹H-NMR spectra supported its presence, with chemical shifts at 3.80–3.92, 6.54–7.18, and 7.31–7.49 ppm. UV-Vis analysis revealed strong absorption in the UV-A region (320–420 nm), and DFT-based computational modelling showed peaks at 276 and 405 nm. These results highlight curcumin’s potential as a photoprotective agent, supporting safer, plant-based sunscreen formulations and offering a sustainable alternative for the cosmetic industry.
Smallholder quail farms often face limitations in providing high-quality feed that can improve both productivity and nutritional quality of eggs, particularly in enhancing essential fatty acids such as omega-3. Bali sardinella (Sardinella lemuru) fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and holds potential as a dietary supplement to enhance egg nutritional value. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of S. lemuru fish oil supplementation in feed on egg production and fatty acid profile of laying quails under smallholder farming conditions. A randomized block design was applied with four treatments: T0 (0% LFO), T1 (2% LFO), T2 (4% LFO), and T3 (6% LFO), each with two replications and 50 adult female quails per unit. The results showed that S. lemuru fish oil supplementation had no significant effect on egg weight, egg length, viscosity, yolk diameter and height, or other physical egg parameters. However, T3 significantly reduced egg production. The 2% LFO treatment (T1) resulted in the highest crude protein content in the feed and relatively better performance and physical egg quality. The fatty acid profile of eggs was dominated by oleic, palmitic, and linoleic acids, with omega-3 levels increasing in line with higher LFO doses. These findings suggest that 2% S. lemuru fish oil supplementation is suitable for smallholder quail farming to improve egg quality without significantly increasing production costs.
Heavy metal contamination in urban coastal areas poses a serious environmental threat, with lead (Pb) being one of the most persistent and hazardous pollutants. Mangrove forests, which act as natural buffers between land and sea, have the potential to mitigate heavy metal pollution through phytoremediation. This study evaluates the phytoremediation potential of three mangrove species—Avicennia marina, Rhizophora mucronata, and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza—in lead-contaminated coastal areas of Wonorejo and Gunung Anyar, Surabaya, Indonesia. Sediment, root, and leaf samples were collected using a survey method and purposive random sampling. Physiochemical analysis included soil texture, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and Pb concentration. Pb levels in Gunung Anyar sediments reached 12.0 ppm, higher than Wonorejo’s 4.05 ppm. A. marina exhibited the highest Pb accumulation, with a bioconcentration factor (BCF) of 8.85 in roots and 6.97 in leaves. R. mucronata had a BCF of 5.75 in roots and 2.09 in leaves, while B. gymnorrhiza demonstrated a root BCF of 28.8 and leaf BCF of 28.4. Translocation factor (TF) analysis revealed that A. marina had the highest TF (1.27), indicating phytostabilization as its primary mechanism. Meanwhile, R. mucronata and B. gymnorrhiza exhibited phytoextraction characteristics due to higher metal translocation efficiency. These findings highlight the distinct phytoremediation strategies among species.
The decline in sugarcane productivity and the imbalance between sugar production and national consumption are largely attributed to the genetic degradation of long-cultivated commercial varieties and suboptimal ratoon management. This study evaluates the agronomic performance and sugar yield potential of seven promising sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) clones in their second ratoon cycle. The research was conducted at the Sugarcane Research and Development Center (P3T) in collaboration with PG Krembung, PT Perkebunan Nusantara X (PTPN X), in Watesari Village, Sidoarjo, Indonesia. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) with one factor and nine treatments was employed. Statistical analysis comprised ANOVA at a 5% significance level, Least Significant Difference (LSD) test, genetic diversity analysis, and heritability estimation. The results revealed significant differences among the clones in stalk diameter, brix, stalk weight, yield, and sugar content. The JW01 UMG NX clone exhibited the highest stalk diameter (33.31 mm) and sugar recovery (11.64%), while the SB19 UMG NX clone demonstrated the highest stalk weight (165.28 tons/ha), brix (23.78 °Bx), and yield (18.79 tons/ha). Genetic diversity was low across all measured traits, but heritability values were high, suggesting a strong genetic influence. These findings indicate that JW01 UMG NX and SB19 UMG NX are highly productive and hold strong potential as candidates for new superior varieties (VUB) to support national sugar self-sufficiency.
Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) is a major fungal pathogen responsible for Fusarium wilt disease in banana plants, significantly reducing productivity and leading to substantial economic losses. This study aimed to evaluate the biocontrol potential of endophytic bacteria isolated from Mimosa pudica L. against Foc through an in vitro assay. A completely randomized design (CRD) with four treatments was employed, including a negative control (CP0), a positive control (CPF0), and two endophytic bacterial isolates from Mimosa pudica L. (BEP8 and BEP15), each with four replications. The antagonistic activity of these isolates was assessed using the dual culture method. The results demonstrated that BEP8 and BEP15 significantly inhibited Foc growth from 1 to 5 days after inoculation (DAI), with maximum inhibition rates observed on day 4, reaching 36.60% and 37.52%, respectively. These findings suggest that endophytic bacteria from Mimosa pudica possess potential as biocontrol agents against Foc. However, further molecular identification and greenhouse trials are necessary to confirm their efficacy in real-world applications.
Synthetic preservatives in food products pose potential health risks and environmental concerns, leading to an increasing demand for natural alternatives. This study evaluates the physicochemical properties of liquid smoke derived from coconut shells and its potential as a natural preservative for fish balls. The production of liquid smoke involved torrefaction at 250°C, followed by purification through distillation and adsorption with activated carbon. The liquid smoke was characterized by a pH of 2.86, a density of 1.058 g/mL, and a total titratable acidity of 8.95%, meeting the Indonesian National Standard for Crude Lignocellulose Liquid Smoke (SNI 8985:2021). GC-MS analysis revealed that acetic acid (80.87%) and phenol (8.90%) were the predominant compounds, contributing to its antimicrobial properties. The efficacy of liquid smoke as a preservative was tested on fish balls at concentrations of 3%, 5%, and 7%. The best preservation effect was observed at 7% concentration, which resulted in the lowest total plate count (2.35 × 10⁶ CFU/g) after one day of storage at room temperature. These findings suggest that coconut shell-derived liquid smoke exhibits promising physicochemical characteristics and antimicrobial properties, making it a potential natural alternative to synthetic preservatives for food preservation.
Avocado seeds (Persea americana Mill.) are an underutilized agricultural byproduct with significant starch content, making them a potential raw material for flour production. Roasting is a key processing method that enhances drying efficiency and improves sensory attributes. This study investigates the impact of roasting temperature (120°C, 130°C, 140°C, and 150°C) on the chemical composition and quality of avocado seed flour (ASF). The experiment was conducted using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications. Proximate analysis and tannin content were determined through standard laboratory methods. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test. The results indicate that the optimal roasting temperature for ASF is 150°C, yielding the following composition: moisture content (5.47±0.76%), tannin content (0.0723±0.0004%), protein content (1.66±0.033%), carbohydrate content (86.45±0.91%), fat content (2.08±0.23%), and ash content (4.34±0.03%). Higher roasting temperatures resulted in lower moisture and tannin levels, which are beneficial for improving ASF quality. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing roasting conditions for ASF production, enhancing its potential application in food processing.
