Food waste wastewater (FWW), defined in this study as the aqueous supernatant obtained after hydrothermal treatment and solid–liquid separation of food waste, is rich in soluble organic matter and nutrients and has considerable potential as a low-cost substrate for microbial cultivation. This study investigated the feasibility of using FWW to produce a liquid nitrogen-fixing bacterial (NFB) fertilizer. Five NFB strains were isolated from wheat rhizosphere soil, among which strain N4, identified as Arthrobacter pascens, exhibited the highest nitrogen-fixation capacity and was selected for fertilizer preparation. FWW produced at 120 °C provided the most suitable culture medium. Under the optimized conditions (100 rpm, 25 °C, pH 6, and 1% inoculum), the total bacterial count reached 1.38 × 1013 CFU mL-1. In a 35-day soybean seedling pot experiment, application of the FWW-derived NFB fertilizer increased the fresh weight of soybean plants by 73.6% compared with the CK treatment and was accompanied by increased soil available nitrogen and enzyme activities. The treatment was also associated with shifts in rhizosphere bacterial community composition.
Zinc (Zn) deficiency constitutes a significant global human health challenge. Application of Zn fertilizers to crops, such as oats, offers a rapid solution to the problem. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of oat biofortification through Zn fertilization, without causing Zn phytotoxicity to the crop. A field experiment was performed in Valdivia, southern Chile, in which oat (Avena sativa L.) grown in a Duric Hapludand soil was fertilized with zinc sulfate (ZnSO4 · 7H2O) with the following application rates: 0, 14, 43, and 85 kg Zn ha-1, equivalent to 0, 8, 24, and 47 mg Zn kg-1. The application of Zn at treatment rates had no significant effect on grain yield. The application of Zn at the study rates increased DTPA-Zn concentration considerably from 1.3 to 29 mg kg-1 and Zn concentration in oat grain from 22 to 45 mg kg-1. This study suggests that Andisols can be fertilized with Zn at the rate of up to 85 kg ha-1 without a risk of causing Zn phytotoxicity to agricultural crops. This study has practical agronomical implications by demonstrating that DTPA-Zn content of about 20 mg kg-1 is the optimal for increasing grain Zn content in oats grown in Andisols. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating the feasibility to biofortify with Zn crops grown in Andisols and one of few studies on Zn biofortification of Zn in oat.
Root-knot nematodes, particularly Meloidogyne ethiopica, represent a major constraint to crop production in Chile. While plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and entomopathogenic nematode symbionts are known sources of nematicidal metabolites, their combined activity against plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) has received little attention. In this study, the nematicidal activity of crude extracts obtained from plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (Bacillus mycoides FB25M and Peribacillus frigoritolerans FB37BR) and symbiotic bacteria associated with and Photorhabdus antumapuensis UCH-873) was evaluated. Extracts were tested individually and in mixtures against second-stage juveniles (J2) and eggs of M. ethiopica in vitro, followed by a preliminary greenhouse assay. In vitro assays revealed that crude extracts significantly increased J2 mortality at both tested concentrations (25% and 50%), with high mortality after 72 h (p<0.001). No recovery occurred after transfer to water, indicating a nematicidal effect. Compared with that of the control, egg hatching strongly decreased during early incubation, with a reduction of up to 95%. However, the observed inhibitory effects diminished over time, likely because of the progressive depletion of eggs in the control. In contrast, the crude extracts did not significantly reduce the nematode infection parameters under greenhouse conditions, and these differences were attributable only to the chemical control. These results highlight the nematicidal potential of metabolites from rhizobacteria and entomopathogenic nematode symbionts against M. ethiopica. Further research is required to understand the stability and persistence of these bacterial metabolites in soil and to develop formulation strategies that enhance their efficacy.
Zinc (Zn) deficiency constitutes a health challenge particularly in South and Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Application of Zn fertilizers to crops, such as oat, offers a rapid solution to the problem. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of oat biofortification through Zn fertilization, without causing Zn phytotoxicity to the crop. A field experiment was performed in Valdivia, southern Chile, in which oat (Avena sativa L.) grown in a Duric Hapludand soil was fertilized with zinc sulfate (ZnSO4 & centerdot;7 H2O) with the following application rates: 0, 14, 43, and 85 kg Zn ha-1, equivalent to 0, 8, 24, and 47 mg Zn kg-1 soil. Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) solution was used to extract and measure the availability of Zn. The application of Zn at increased DTPA-Zn concentration considerably from 1.3 to 29 mg kg-1 soil and Zn concentration in oat grains from 22 to 45 mg kg-1. The application of Zn had no significant effect on grain yield. This study has practical agronomical implications by demonstrating that DTPA-Zn content of about 20 mg kg-1 is optimal for increasing Zn content in oat grains grown in Andisols. This study demonstrates the technical feasibility of biofortifying crops with Zn grown in Andisols.
The genus Nolana (Solanaceae) comprises numerous species endemic to arid and semi-arid environments of the coastal areas of Chile and Peru and is characterized by a pentacarpellate ovary that develops into fibrous fruits knows as mericarps. This study aimed to comparatively analyse the anatomy and morphology of mericarps in 12 Chilean Nolana species, representing four phylogenetic clades, in order to identify interspecific patterns relevant to taxonomy and to discuss their ecological implications in terms of persistence, dispersal, and germination. Mericarps were analysed using light and scanning electron microscopy, as well as stereomicroscopy. In all species, the pericarp consisted of three main tissues: a single-layered exocarp, a mesocarp of variable thickness exhibiting the greatest interspecific variation, and a dense endocarp composed of a single layer of sclereids. Based on mesocarp structure, species could be grouped into three anatomical types, although these patterns did not correspond clearly with phylogenetic clades. Differences in mericarp size, shape, number of embryonic chambers, and tissue composition suggest functional links with dispersal modes and longevity in the soil seed bank. Although mericarp anatomy and morphology alone are insufficient for species-level identification, the characters described here provide complementary traits that may support taxonomic studies and improve understanding of adaptive strategies in arid environments.
Spectroscopy approaches showed promising results for the precise quantitative and qualitative assessment of plants and plant-based products which are characterized by complex microstructures and chemical compositions. Presently, the new generation of cutting-edge spectroscopic techniques such as visible-infrared (VIS-NIR), Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), spectral imaging, etc. are emerging as rapid, non-destructive, largely reproducible, easy to use and cost-effective which aligns with the practical requirements of plant research. However, their performance can be influenced by factors including spectral interference, matrix complexity, instrumental variability, and calibration robustness—challenges that may affect sensitivity and reproducibility. These spectroscopic techniques have been employed in various aspects of plant sciences, including compositional analysis, nutritional profiling, and the detection of contaminants, adulterants, environmental monitoring, and stress markers. Moreover, they contribute to genetic and metabolic profiling, supporting advancements in plant breeding and biotechnology. This paper provides an objective and comprehensive overview of the current applications of spectroscopic analyses based on the state-of-the-art literature written in English and published in peer-reviewed journals from 2000 to 2024, aimed to elucidate the varied applications of spectroscopy in plant sciences, highlighting its indispensable role in addressing upcoming challenges in the plant and plant-based food industry and promoting sustainable practices. Spectroscopy, in its ever-evolving form, will play a main role in the future of smart agriculture, sustaining plant and plant-based foods amidst climate change.
R. D. D. G. de Albuquerque, M. L. Ganoza-Yupanqui1, F. R. Le & oacute;n-Vargas, Y. Ramos-Rivas, D. Carrasco-Monta & ntilde;ez, and S. C & oacute;rdova-Horna. 2025. UPLC-MS/MS analysis and phenolic/flavonoid content of Phlebodium decumanum (Willd.) J. Sm. rhizomes, an ethnomedicinal resource from American Rain Forests. Int. J. Agric. Nat. Resour. 163-170. Phlebodium decumanum is an ethnomedicinal resource in several native communities of America. However, little chemical information has been reported for its rhizomes, which are also used for medicinal purposes. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical profile of the hydroalcoholic extract of P. decumanum rhizomes through identification by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) as well as the analysis of its phenolic and flavonoid contents. Twenty-two substances were identified, with a focus on phenolic acids, flavonoids and hispidin, which have biological activities that can explain the ethnomedicinal use of this natural resource.
Genotype Responses of Barley for Crop Adaptability, Yield Variations and Quality Traits under Terminal Heat Stress Conditions. Int. J. Agric. Nat. Resour. 148-163. Barley, a vital crop globally, faces increasing threats from rising temperatures and climate variability. The physiological and morphological characteristics of ten advanced barley lines and two cultivars were assessed in this study over a two-year period under rain-fed conditions. This research revealed significant variations in genotype performance under terminal heat stress. The results highlight that temperature stress exceeded critical thresholds during critical growth stages, impacting grain yield and quality. Genotypes such as 'IBON HI 16-12' displayed consistently high yields, whereas 'Kendal' showed adaptability across varying conditions. The leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD) and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) varied among the genotypes, and a high NDVI did not consistently lead to higher yields under heat stress conditions. Quality traits, including protein content, test weight, and thousand-kernel weight, fluctuated independently of yield. Canopeo measurements highlight rapid ground cover growth, emphasizing its importance for plant productivity. Genotypes with delayed heading and prolonged physiological maturity presented high yields under heat stress. Leaf area index (LAI) measurements may aid in the selection of heat-tolerant genotypes. Alternatively, Canopeo measurements at 85-95% coverage provide valuable data for assessing genotype performance. This study enhances our understanding of barley's response to heat stress, emphasizing genotype adaptability and the need for further research to address temperature-related yield variations.
A. Dzankovic, C. Fikar, and B. M & uuml;ller. 2025. Determinants of Productivity and Economic Performance of Smallholder Tomato Farmers in Ethiopia: A Comparative Gross Margin Analysis. Int. J. Agric. Nat. Resour. 115-137. This study analyzes the economic performance and factors influencing gross margins among 291 smallholder tomato farmers across three Ethiopian regions: Oromia, Amhara and Sidama. Vegetable production is a significant incomegenerating activity for smallholder farmers in Ethiopia; however, productivity remains low compared to neighboring countries. Using cluster analysis methods and data envelopment analysis, farmers were compared based on production intensity and profitability. The findings reveal significant disparities between the clusters, with high-performing farmers achieving a gross margin of 138,434 ETB/ha (approximate to 2,621 USD), compared to 113,753 ETB ha-1 (approximate to 2,153 USD) for low-performing farmers. Key determinants of productivity include the use of improved seed varieties, irrigation, mineral fertilizers and staking practices. While 90% of high-performing farmers used improved seeds, only 21% of the low-performing group adopted this practice. Furthermore, the study identifies limited access to quality inputs and small production areas as major barriers to productivity. These results highlight the need for targeted policy interventions to enhance input availability and support the adoption of advanced farming techniques. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers aiming to boost agricultural productivity and improve the economic well-being of smallholder farmers in Ethiopia.
Parasites are among the most widespread health threats affecting a wide range of organisms. Hymenolepis nana is a common intestinal tapeworm that infects rodents such as Mus musculus and Rattus norvegicus, posing potential complications in laboratory research where animal health is crucial for obtaining reliable results. This study aimed to investigate the ovicidal effect of Laurus nobilis leaf extract on H. nana eggs. Eggs were divided into six groups, each containing 500 eggs. Groups 2 to 5 were treated with L. nobilis extract at concentrations of 25, 50, 100, and 200 mu g ml(-1), respectively, while group 6 received Albendazole at 100 mg ml(-1) as a reference drug. A control group was maintained without treatment. All groups were incubated at 28 degrees C and examined after 12, 24, 36, and 48 hours. Following incubation, a mixture of the egg suspension and 0.1% eosin dye was prepared to assess egg viability under a light microscope. Results showed that the highest concentration of L. nobilis (200 mu g ml(-1)) killed 89% of the eggs, while Albendazole (100 mg ml(-1)) achieved a 93% mortality rate. Non-viable (dead) eggs absorbed the red dye, while viable eggs remained unstained. Statistically significant differences (P <= 0.01) were observed between treated groups and the control, as well as among the different extract concentrations. These findings demonstrate the potent ovicidal activity of L. nobilis, highlighting its potential as a natural antiparasitic agent and a promising candidate for the development of plant-based anthelmintic drugs.
The passing of Professor Francisco Meza Dabancens on 26 May 2025 left the community of Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and the national scientific community in deep sorrow. Throughout his career, Francisco left a legacy in the fields of meteorology and applied climatology, climate variability and global change, hydrometeorology, remote sensing, crop modeling, and water management. In this editorial, we honor his professional journey by revisiting his most important milestones that defined his extraordinary contributions to global climate change science, sustainability and society.
The species Phlebodium decumanum is an ethnomedicinal resource in several native communities in America. However, little chemical information is reported for the rhizomes, which are also used medicinally. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical profile of the hydroalcoholic extract of P. decumanum rhizomes through identification by UPLC-MS/MS, as well as its phenolic and flavonoid content. As a result, 22 substances were identified, with emphasis on phenolic acids, flavonoids and hispidin, which in turn, have biological activities that can explain the relationship of this natural resource with ethnomedicinal use.
A. K. Parawansa, A. Paramaswary Aslam, and P. J. McMahon. 2025. Influences of Environmental Knowledge and Gender on Sustainable Agricultural Practices among Mixed-Cropping Cacao Farmer Communities in Sulawesi. Int. J. Agric. Nat. Resour. 62-78. To develop sustainable agriculture in Indonesia, there is a need to empower smallholder farmers and promote gender equality in the agricultural sector. A study was conducted among mixed cropping cacao farming households in South, West and Central Sulawesi Provinces (n=435). The aim of the study was to elucidate the relationships between latent variables and farmer understanding of relevant Social Services, Financing, and Household and Community Challenges (SSHFCs) and the implementation of sustainable practices (such as crop diversification). Informed by the theory ofplanned behavior (TPB), 'Environmental Knowledge' (EK) was incorporated into the study, in addition to other TPB core components, Attitudes (AT) and Subjective Norms (SN). The data collected by the questionnaire reflect these latent variables. The application of a partial least squares-structural equation model (PLS-SEM) demonstrated the reliability and discriminant validity of these data. Path analysis in the model indicated that AT, SN and EK all had significant direct effects on SSHFC or farmers' understanding of available resources for sustainability outcomes. While path coefficients between variables (including indirect effects) were significant for both genders considered separately, attitudes toward sustainable practices did not differ between male and female farmers. However, the indirect effects of SN on SSHFC mediated by EK were significantly greater among men than women, whereas the direct effects of SN on SSHFC were much weaker in men. This suggests that women will seek out support services regardless of their level of environmental knowledge, while men are more likely to access such resources with the mediating effect of environmental knowledge. Nevertheless, EK also enhanced the understanding of available resources (or SSHFC) among women, demonstrating the potentially strong mediating role of EK in seeking sustainable outcomes within these farming communities.
Ecotoxicological research often relies predominantly on artificially contaminated soils, with studies on real-world contaminated soils remaining scarce. This study focuses on the Kargaly site in the Orenburg region of Russia, a rare instance of monometallic soil pollution by copper (Cu). The similarity of other elements in the soil samples to background levels highlights the uniqueness of this monometallic contamination. We established Cu toxicity thresholds for soil microorganisms and earthworms using soils collected along a Cu toxicity gradient in a chernozem (Mollisol) agricultural field. The total soil Cu predicted earthworm responses as effectively as did 0.01 M CaCl2-extractable Cu. While total soil Cu strongly predicted microbiological responses, 0.01 M CaCl2-extractable Cu was a poor predictor for microorganisms. The effective concentrations of total soil Cu for earthworms at 25% (EC25) and 50% (EC50) were 480 and 1005 mg kg-1, respectively, compared to 4,570 and 7,797 mg kg-1 for microorganisms, respectively. Similarly, the EC25 and EC50 of 0.01 M CaCl2-extractable Cu were 14 and 46 mu g L-1 for earthworms, respectively, although 0.01 M CaCl2-extractable Cu did not predict microbial toxicity well. Overall, earthworms were more sensitive to Cu than were microorganisms. This study is among the few that estimate Cu toxicity thresholds in real-world contaminated soils rather than artificially spiked soils.
The objective of this study was to determine the variations in the mineral profile of the micellar and water-soluble fractions of goat milk between the first and second lactations. Twenty Saanen dairy goats in their first (n=10) or second lactation (n=10) were randomly selected for this trial. Milk samples were obtained monthly from all the animals for seven months. The concentrations of sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), phosphorous (P), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), and arsenic (As) in both the water-soluble and micellar fractions were analyzed. Na, Mg, Zn, K, and As were positively correlated with both total milk production and lactation days in the first-lactation dairy goats (r>0.9; p<0.05). For the second-lactation goats, Ca, Se, and P had negative correlation coefficients with days in lactation (r<-0.75; p<0.05). Overall, the mineral contents in the micellar and water-soluble fractions of first- and second-lactation goats varied throughout lactation. The concentrations of essential elements in the milk of goats from the first and second births did not significantly differ. The distribution of essential and toxic minerals in the micellar and aqueous fractions found in goat milk is important for identifying the fraction with the highest percentage of recorded concentration of a particular mineral, especially toxic ones. For example, the content of arsenic in goat milk was above the international standard allowed for drinking water (10 µg L-1), which is important for monitoring the quality and safety of goat milk.
W. Chan-Cupul, J. M. Palma-Garcia, E. Ruiz-S & aacute;nchez, and E. Cruz-Crespo. 2025. Assessment of the effects of inoculation with entomopathogenic fungi on the vegetative growth and yield of Capsicum chinense under water stress conditions. Int. J. Agric. and gastronomic value. The cultivation of C. chinense is increasingly challenged by global warming and droughts, which impact both plant health and market stability. Climate change affects agriculture by altering temperature and precipitation patterns, leading to soil moisture loss, drought, phenological damage, and increased pest and disease incidence. The use of bioinoculants, including entomopathogenic fungi (EFs), may be a strategy to mitigate drought in C. chinense production. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of Beauveria brongniartii and Purpureocillium lilacinum inoculation on the vegetative growth and yield of C. chinense var. "Chichen Itza" under two water stress conditions. Experiments were conducted in a gothic greenhouse, and C. chinense seedlings were transplanted into growth bags [coconut fiber (70%) and dust (30%)] with controlled irrigation at 75% and 100% levels. The EFs were applied weekly for the first month (50 mL at 1x107 conidia mL-1). Agronomic parameters, including plant height, stem diameter, chlorophyll index, leaf area, fruit quality, and yield, were measured. The results indicated that both B. brongniartii and P. lilacinum significantly increased plant height and stem diameter in the early stages of growth under water stress conditions. B. brongniartii notably increased plant growth and maintained fruit yield even under reduced irrigation. However, no significant differences were observed in the chlorophyll index or overall fruit yield among the treatments. The results of this study suggest that B. brongniartii and P. lilacinum can improve C. chinense resilience to water stress, suggesting potential applications in sustainable agriculture amidst climate change.
In this study, we assembled the complete plastid genome of Strombocarpa burkartii, an endangered species inhabiting the Atacama Desert (Chile). Here, we describe the structure and phylogeny of the complete plastid genome of S. burkartii. The plastid genome consisted of 162,104 bp, with typical quadripartite structures: a large single copy (91,119 bp), a small single copy (18,643 bp), and two inverted repeats (26,171 bp). A complete plastid analysis of S. burkartii revealed 128 genes, including 83 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis of 21 complete plastid genomes confirmed the placement of S. burkartii within the genus Strombocarpa (Mimosoid clade). In the present work, we report the complete plastid genome of S. burkartii for the first time, which can be used for future studies on population genetics, evolution, and conservation.
This study investigated the effects of the addition of different additives to ensiled headless confectionary sunflower crops (HCSC) on silage quality, in vitro digestibility (IVD), and energy content. HCSC was pulled into pieces and mixed with sugar beet pulp (SBP) at ratios of 0, 10, 20, and 30%, and a bacterial inoculant+enzyme mixture (BI+E) was added to these groups at a ratio of 0 or 5 g/ton. The pH values; ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) and volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations of the silages; and raw nutrient parameters, IVD, energy content, relative feed value (RFV) and Fleig scores were subsequently determined. SBP increased the OM and CP levels and lowered the DM, CA, EE, NDF, and ADF levels of the silages. BI+E increased the OM, CP, NDF, and ADF levels (p<0.05). The effect of the SBPxBI+E interaction on nutrient contents was significant only for the CP and EE values (p<0.05). SBP supplementation increased the AA and PA values. BI+E increased the values of all the parameters except for LA (p<0.05). The effects of the SBPxBI+E interaction on fermentation values were significant except for those of PA (p<0.05). Significant changes were observed in RFV and IVD by the addition of SBP, in Fleig scores by the addition of BI+E, and in IVD, RFV and Fleig scores by the interaction of SBPxBI+E (p<0.05). In the case of adding BI+E to HCSCs, it would be more appropriate to ensile it with a carbohydrate source such as SBP, and adding SBP to this material at a ratio of up to 30% is recommended.
In the context of bean production, the insidious presence of Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. phaseolicola (Psp) and Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli (Xap) is a formidable challenge, exerting significant negative impacts in T & uuml;rkiye. This study aimed to estimate the chlorophyll carotenoid contents and phenolic compounds to determine the effects of pathogen damage on bean pigment contents. Physiological and biochemical changes were observed after bacterial pathogens attacked susceptible and resistant bean plants. Chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, and carotenoid contents were measured using a spectrophotometer 72 h after pathogen inoculation, and phenolic compounds were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) at 12 and 72 h after Xap and Psp inoculation in susceptible and resistant bean plants. Although the contents of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, and carotenoids in the leaves of cultivar Aras98 decreased after both pathogen treatments, there was no change in the leaves of the 36K genotype. HPLC revealed the presence of various amounts of phenolic compounds, namely, gallic, catechin, chlorogenic, caffeic, syringic, p-coumaric, rutin, q-coumaric, myricetin, and quercetin. In this study, the intricate ways in which pathogens influence metabolic processes within bean leaf tissue were investigated, with a focus on the resilient 36K and susceptible Aras98 genotypes. The insights obtained from our research are useful not only for our understanding of plant-pathogen interactions but also as a foundational cornerstone for future endeavors in molecular pathological breeding. These findings provide guidance, illuminating pathways for the cultivation of robust, disease-resistant bean varieties.
In the face of global warming, environmental pollution, population growth, and the degradation of biodiversity and natural resources, sustainable farming practices have become crucial and should be explored and implemented. Aquaponics is an agricultural system that integrates aquaculture and hydroponics in the application of sustainable farming technologies. The nitrogen-rich biomass produced by aquatic life is used to feed crops, while the feeding process also acts as a natural filtering system that maintains the habitat of aquatic life. This article divides the development history of aquaponics into three stages: the origin stage (before the 1960s), the initial stage (1960s), and the development stage (after the 2010s). Five typical aquaponic models are compared and analyzed. This work suggests that the basic theory of the aquaponic system should be studied thoroughly, and the intelligent and industrial development trends of the system should be explored. These studies can provide sufficient evidence and concrete references for large-scale applications of aquaponics.
