2025, Vol. 23, Special Issue 2

Selle kollektsiooni püsiv URIhttp://hdl.handle.net/10492/10188

Sirvi

Nüüd näidatakse 1 - 20 26

Experimental investigation of corona discharge as a green technology for improving sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench seed germination
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Bardadi Bendaha, M.; Benmimoun, Y.; Bekkouche, B.; Kherbouche, F.; Miloudi, K.
Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench is a vital cereal crop widely cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions due to its notable drought tolerance and adaptability. Enhancing germination efficiency is crucial for improving crop establishment and overall productivity. This study explores the effects of negative DC corona discharge treatment (a non-thermal plasma-based seed priming method) on the germination. Sorghum seeds were exposed to voltages of 14, 18, 22, and 26 kV for durations of 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes, with germination monitored over five days. After 24 hours, treatment at 22 kV for 15 minutes resulted in a 500% increase in germinated seeds compared to the control (18 vs. 3). By 48 hours, 18 kV for 15 minutes led to 40 germinated seeds versus 15 in the control group, marking a 166.7% improvement. The trend continued at 72 hours, with 44 seeds germinated under 22 kV for 15 minutes compared to 25 in untreated samples (76% increase). The 96-hour observation showed 44 germinated seeds at 22 kV for 5 minutes versus 28 in control (57.1% increase), while by 120 hours, 14 kV for 15 minutes produced 48 seeds compared to 32 in the control (50% increase). These results demonstrate that corona discharge treatment effectively accelerates early germination and enhances seed vigor, particularly under moderate voltage (14–22 kV) and exposure durations of 10–15 minutes, highlighting its potential as an eco-friendly strategy to boost sorghum crop performance.
Spatio-temporal analysis of water productivity of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under different bioclimatic stages
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Amirouche, M.; Smadhi, D.; Degui, N.
Water scarcity is a major problem in Algeria. This shortage is set to worsen in the coming years as a result of both climate change and the growth in socio-economic activities, leading to an increasing demand for water. Market gardening, in particular potato cultivation - the second most important crop after cereals - is booming throughout the country, year-round. The aim of this study is to assess the water productivity of strategic potato crops in the regions of Algiers, Tiaret and El Oued, which have temperate, semi-arid and desert climates, respectively. The approach is based on calculating the water requirements of the potato crop (Solanum tuberosum L.), using the CropWat model (V 8.0) and the yields recorded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Sustainable Development, over a 23-year study period (2000–2022). The results obtained showed that the values of irrigation water requirements for potato cultivation in the three regions studied are 542.3 mm, 452.7 mm and 712.5 mm, respectively. On the other hand, the water productivity figures are around 6.1, 5.8 and 4.2 kg m-3. This analysis could be further used by irrigation system managers and potato growers, to help them use water resources efficiently.
Evaluating the STICS Soil-Crop Model on durum wheatchickpea intercropping system under the semi-arid conditions of Southern Tunisia
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Attallah, A.; Hamdi, W.; Van den Meersche, K.; Souid, A.; Kucher, D.E.; Zakharova, O.A.; Farissi, M.; L’taief, B.; Messiga, J.A.; Jellali, S.; Rebouh, N.Y.
Soil-crop models provide critical insights for designing and assessing innovative cropping systems, particularly for improving sustainability in water-limited regions. However, accurately modeling intercropping systems particularly those involving grains and legumes continues to pose a significant challenge in agricultural research. This study focuses on the initial calibration and evaluation of the STICS soil-crop model for a durum wheat-chickpea intercropping system in Mediterranean semi-arid conditions. Field experiments were conducted during 2020–2021 and 2021–2022 cropping seasons in the Medenine region, Tunisia, with comparison between the intercropping and monoculture systems. The Model performance was evaluated using Aboveground Plant Nitrogen (AGPN) as an indicator of nitrogen uptake. The STICS model demonstrated satisfactory predictive capacity across most simulations, with efficiency (EFF) values ranging from 0.56 to 0.80. Grain yield predictions were reasonably accurate, as indicated by a normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) of ≤ 37%, particularly for durum wheat (EFF ≥ 0.55). The model effectively simulated the soil water content, achieving an efficiency (EFF) of ≥ 0.51 and an NRMSE of ≤ 25%, especially in the chickpea plots. However, the predictions of the soil nitrogen stock were less accurate in the chickpea monocultures, with efficiency values ≤ 0.38 and NRMSE ≥ 44%. The intercropping simulations showed moderate accuracy, with efficiency values up to 0.41. These findings highlight the potential complementary interactions between durum wheat and chickpeas in using nitrogen and carbon resources. This study contributes to the development of sustainable agricultural practices tailored to Mediterranean climates, supporting climate adaptation and resource efficiency.
Forage potential of six sugarcane cultivars for feeding ruminants
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Santos, D.C.; Pires, A.J.V.; Ribeiro, A.S.; Andrade, W.R.; Nogueira, M.S.; Dutra, I.C.; Oliveira, G.R.S.; Sousa, M.P.; Santos, W.B.S.; Paixão, T.R.; Silva, H.S.; Amorim, S.S.
The study evaluated the productive, morphometric, and bromatological characteristics of six sugarcane cultivars (Regional, RB 865536, RB 867515, CTC2, CTC9001, and CTC9004M). The experiment began at UESB and continued at Fazenda Bela Vista, with evaluations conducted 3 to 18 months after planting. A randomized complete block design was used, with six cultivars per cultivar and four replicates. The cultivar CTC2 presented higher levels of lignin and indigestible neutral detergent fiber, while RB 865536 stood out for its hemicellulose content. The average contents of dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, non-fibrous carbohydrates, and corrected neutral detergent fiber did not differ between cultivars, but there was variation in carbohydrate fractions. CTC9001 presented the highest value for fraction A (68.6%), while cultivar Regional and CTC9004M stood out in fraction B1+B2, and CTC2 and CTC9004M in fractions B3 and C, respectively. In the productive characteristics, CTC9004M presented the highest values of natural matter, dry matter, soluble carbohydrates, production and juice efficiency, standing out in yield. Regarding morphometric characteristics, CTC9001 showed advantages in leaf length and diameter, stem diameter, and leaf area, although there were no significant differences in plant height, tiller number, or leaf number. The cultivars have similar chemical and bromatological composition, agronomic characteristics, and growth behavior. CTC9004M demonstrated superior production efficiency, making it the most suitable option for forage use in semiarid conditions. Future studies should evaluate animal performance directly using these cultivars in feeding trials.
The quality and fermentation of the total diet containing BRS capiaçu or sugarcane with or without urea
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Silva, N.V.; Pires, A.J.V.; Dutra, I.C.; Silva, H.S.; Santos, B.E.F.; Nogueira, M.S.; Cruz, N.T.; Silva, A.P.G.; Teixeira, L.S.; Oliveira, G.R.S.; Dutra, G.C.; Teixeira, L.S.
The objective of this study was to evaluate total diet silages in PVC silos, containing BRS Capiaçu or sugarcane with or without urea. The experimental design was completely randomized with a 2x2 factorial arrangement with ten replicates, with one of the roughages (sugarcane or Capiaçu) being with or without urea (2% urea on a dry matter basis). No interaction was observed between the bulk and urea factors for the variables analyzed. Diets containing sugarcane presented greater gas losses and lower pH. In contrast, effluent losses and dry matter recovery were higher in diets containing BRS Capiaçu. Ammonia nitrogen levels were influenced by both the type of roughage and the addition of urea, being higher in diets with urea and those containing BRS Capiaçu. Diets with BRS Capiaçu also resulted in higher levels of ash, NDF, ADF, hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin. The addition of urea, in turn, reduced lignin levels. The levels of ADIN and NDIN were higher in diets with BRS Capiaçu and lower in those with sugarcane, while urea reduced ADIN. For NFC, there was an effect of roughage and urea, with higher values observed in diets with sugarcane and with the addition of urea. The highest iNDF levels were found in diets with BRS Capiaçu and without urea. Protein fractionation showed that the addition of urea increased fraction A and reduced fractions B1+B2 and C. Fraction B3 was higher in diets with sugarcane. Fraction C showed higher levels with BRS Capiaçu and when urea was not added. Sugarcane resulted in higher levels of fractions A+B1 and lower levels of B2 and C, a pattern opposite to that observed with BRS Capiaçu. Similarly, urea increased fractions A+B1 and decreased fractions B2 and C. The addition of urea to the diets promoted changes in the carbohydrate and protein fractions, improving the composition. Regarding the roughage used, sugarcane presented better fermentation parameters when purchased from Capiaçu.
Liquid fertilization and conventional fertilization on soil fertility and agronomic and morphophysiological characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Braúna grass
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Muricy, J.F.; Silva, F.F.; Dutra, G.C.; Neto, T.M.; Dutra, I.C.; Santos, C.J.; Silva, R.R.; Hermógenes, R.S.; Cerqueira, F.F.; Pires, A.J.V.; Silva, N.V.; Santos, B.E.F.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of liquid and conventional fertilization on soil fertility, assessed by regrowth, and on the morphophysiological characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Braúna. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse at the State University of Southwest Bahia, in Itapetinga-BA, from December 2018 to April 2019. The experimental design adopted was completely randomized, with four replicates, totaling 24 experimental units, in a 2×3 factorial scheme, comprising two types of fertilization (liquid and conventional) and three regrowths, with cutting intervals of 21 days. The results revealed that conventional fertilization promoted an increase in the levels of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) in the soil, which, in turn, positively impacted the sum of bases and base saturation, reaching values of 5.6 cmolc dm-3 and 54%, respectively, in the first regrowth. The dry mass production of the aerial part was influenced by both regrowth and the type of fertilization. A 27% reduction in dry mass production was observed from the first to the second regrowth, and a 16% reduction from the second to the third. On the other hand, conventional fertilization provided a 20% increase in dry mass production. The morphological variables of the plant were influenced by regrowth, with the exception of the leaf appearance rate (LAR), which did not present significant variations. A reduction in the other morphological variables was observed with each regrowth. Fertilization, in turn, influenced only the length of the flagellum leaf (LFL) and the total length of the tiller (TTL). The interaction between regrowth and fertilization was significant for leaf area, specific leaf area, leaf area index and leaf area ratio. The SPAD index, chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll contents were influenced by regrowth, with a progressive increase with each regrowth. Conventional fertilization promoted an increase in the SPAD index, with a value of 35.53, compared to 33.51 for liquid fertilization. The interaction between regrowth and fertilization was significant for the chlorophyll a:b ratio and carotenoids. The chlorophyll a:b ratio decreased with each regrowth. Conventional fertilization resulted in a 1.04% increase in crude protein content compared to liquid fertilization. Dry matter (DM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and ash contents were influenced by regrowth, with a progressive increase with each regrowth, except for ash, which showed a reduction. Regrowth demonstrated greater influence on the productive and morphophysiological characteristics of braúna grass. Conventional fertilization is recommended to promote improvements in soil fertility and increase the crude protein content of signal grass Brachiaria brizantha cv. Braúna.
Genotypic variation in rice tolerance to iron toxicity: insights from Bangladesh
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Islam, M.R.; Akter, N.; Ahmed, S.F.; Rupok, R.B.; Akter, M.
Iron (Fe) toxicity is a major abiotic stress affecting rice production, particularly in acidic soils. Although not well-documented in Bangladesh, Fe toxicity is becoming a significant agronomic concern due to rising concentrations in irrigated soils. This study aimed to assess the tolerance of 18 rice genotypes to Fe toxicity stress based on morphophysiological and yield-related traits. A pot experiment was conducted at Gazipur Agricultural University, Gazipur, using a completely randomized design with three Fe levels: control (0 mg L⁻¹), Fe1 (600 mg L⁻¹), and Fe2 (1,200 mg L⁻¹). Results showed that increasing Fe2+ concentrations significantly affected plant height, tillering ability, chlorophyll content, and grain yield. At Fe2, total tillers per hill declined by 65.8%, and effective tillers reduced by 35.5% compared to the control. Panicle length and the number of filled grains decreased, while unfilled grains increased, indicating reproductive stage Fe stress. The SPAD chlorophyll index declined by 21.3% under Fe2, reflecting Fe-induced chlorosis. Grain yield exhibited a sharp reduction of 46.3% under Fe2, highlighting the detrimental impact of Fe toxicity on productivity. Genotypic variations were observed, with BU line 5 exhibiting the highest grain yield (0.92), effective tillers hill-1 (0.89), and lowest unfilled grains per panicle (1.26), suggesting superior tolerance. Multivariate analysis grouped genotypes based on the stress response, identifying BU line 5, BU line 13, and BRRI Dhan 28 as promising Fe-tolerant candidates. These findings highlight the critical need to breed Fe-tolerant rice varieties to mitigate yield losses in Fe-affected soils. Further research on the genetic and molecular mechanisms of Fe toxicity tolerance will facilitate breeding programs for stress-resilient rice varieties, ensuring food security in regions prone to Fe toxicity stress.
Responses of Azospirillum brasilense on Brachiaria brizantha under different soil amendments
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Publio, P.P.P.; Pires, A.J.V.; Dutra, I.C.; Sousa, M.P.; Figueiredo, G.C.; Nogueira, M.S.; Oliveira, G.R.S.; Ferreira, E.P.L.; Santos, A.F.; Ribeiro, A.S.; Cardoso, P.H.S.; Soares, W.N.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the responses of Brachiaria brizantha to inoculation with Azospirillum brasilense in different soil amendments. Four soil amendment treatments were evaluated (Control, liming, combination of NPK fertilizers and liming + combination of NPK fertilizers), associated or not with the inoculant Azospirillum, in a completely randomized design, with five replicates per treatment. The experimental units consisted of plastic pots with a capacity of 12 liters, which were filled with 10 dm³ of sandy clayey loam soil. For soil correction, higher productions were found for the variables SPAD indexes, chlorophyll b content, carotenoids and chlorophyll a/b ratio. The soil correction factor provided greater production of green matter, dry matter, and leaf area index when using liming with NPK when compared to the control treatment. There was an increase in root volume and weight for the type of soil correction. The use of liming and combination of NPK fertilizers promoted greater development of plant height, tiller density, stem and leaf elongation, quantity and average final leaf size. The use of Azospirillum brasilense inoculation associated with soil correction is recommended, as it provides positive responses on the production of the aerial part and roots of Brachiaria brizantha.
Seed priming with polyethylene glycol improved drought tolerance of late sown wheat by enhanced gas exchange attributes
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Bani Khalaf, Y.; Aldahadha, A.; Migdadi, O.; Alkaabnh, A.
Late sowing, especially in regions prone to drought, significantly hampers crop growth and yield. To address this, field experiments were conducted during the winter of 2021–2022 at Maru and Mushaqar in Jordan to evaluate the effects of seed priming agents as seed priming with water (hydropriming), polyethylene glycol (osmopriming), calcium chloride (osmopriming), and a control (unprimed) on physiological, phenological and yield traits of durum wheat (umqais variety) under normal and late sowing conditions. Results showed that Maru exhibited superior performance in physiology, growth, and yield attributes compared to Mushaqar. While late sown wheat demonstrated better water use efficiency, normal sowing conditions generally favored other yield components. Seed priming by polyethylene glycol (PEG) improved relative water content, stomatal conductance, and grain yield compared to other treatments. Mushaqar recorded higher grain spike-1 and spike m-2 under normal sowing, while PEG-primed seeds produced significantly higher 1,000-grain weight and harvest index. Notably, PEG-primed seeds improved grain yield and 1,000-grain weight, suggesting enhanced drought resilience under late sowing conditions. The study concludes that seed priming, especially with PEG, effectively improves drought tolerance in late sown wheat by enhancing photosynthetic activity, chlorophyll content (SPAD), and water retention. The findings indicate that PEG seed priming can effectively mitigate the negative impacts of late sowing, supporting its use as a practical strategy for improving wheat performance in semi-arid environments.
Ammoniated sugarcane bagasse associated with cottonseed in sheep diets
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Publio, P.P.P.; Pires, A.J.V.; Dutra, I.C.; Sousa, M.P.; Figueiredo, G.C.; Santos, H.O.; Oliveira, G.R.S.; Ferreira, E.P.L.; Santos, A.F.; Cardoso, P.H.S.; Teixeira, F.A; Albuquerque, M.L.P.
The experiment was carried out in the goat farming sector and forage laboratory at UESB, with the objective of evaluating the association of ammoniated sugarcane bagasse with cottonseed in sheep diets. The experimental period was 21 days, with 17 days for animal adaptation and 4 days for data collection. The test was conducted in a double 4×4 Latin square, in a 2×2 factorial scheme, with the factors being ammoniated sugarcane bagasse at 30 or 50% and cottonseed at 0 or 20% inclusion, in the dry matter of the total diet. The digestibility test took place between the 18th and 21st days of each period. For this purpose, leftovers and feces from each animal were quantified and collected during this period. The interaction was not significant in any of the variables studied for sugarcane bagasse and cottonseed, nor was there any effect for the addition of cottonseed to the diets, for dry matter intake kg day-1, %PC and g per kg0.75. The nitrogen balance was positive, as the nitrogen ingested was greater than the nitrogen excreted in urine and feces, indicating that the animal retained protein, meeting its protein requirements. The inclusion of cottonseed resulted in lower digestibility averages. This reduction can be attributed to the lignin content present in the diets studied, since cottonseed has a higher lignin concentration than the other foods analyzed. The use of cottonseed and the increase in the inclusion level of sugarcane bagasse by 50% resulted in an increase in the time spent by animals in feeding, ruminating and chewing activities. Furthermore, a reduction in consumption and rumination efficiency was observed, which correlated with a decrease in dry matter intake. The level of 30% sugar cane bagasse associated with 20% cotton seed promoted greater consumption of dry matter.
Liquid lime and conventional agricultural lime in soil acidity correction and characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Braúna
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Santos, W.B.S.; Silva, F.F.; Neto, T.M.; Dutra, I.C.; Muricy, J.F.; Santos, C.J.; Pires, A.J.V.; Dutra, G.C.; Nogueira, M.S.; Oliveira, G.R.S.; Mendes, R.B.; Jesus, D.C.
The effect of applying liquid limestone and conventional limestone together with regrowth in correcting soil acidity and characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Braúna was evaluated. The treatments were randomly distributed in a 3×3 factorial scheme, with three soil corrections: 1) control; 2) conventional limestone; 3) liquid limestone and three regrowths with a cutting interval of 21 days at 10 cm from the soil, with 4 replicates. The soil pH and base saturation were evaluated in each regrowth in the 0 to 20 cm layer, in addition to the production and bromatological characteristics of Braúna grass. Conventional limestone was efficient in increasing the pH, saturation and production of root dry matter. There was a regrowth effect, where there was an increase in the levels of dry matter, NDF, ADF, hemicellulose and cellulose, and a reduction in the levels of crude protein. The use of conventional limestone is recommended to correct acidity and increase base saturation, as there is greater root development. Brachiaria brizantha cv. Braúna is influenced by regrowth at successive cutting intervals of 21 days, with reduced productivity at each cut and reduced crude protein content.
Drought stress and selective manure on the growth and yield of Chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius) in a tropical climate
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Gustiar, F.; Susilawati; Pratama, F.; Widjajanto, D.W.; Ria, R.P.; Muda, S.A.; Setyawan, L.A.P.
Chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius) is a nutrient-dense, perennial leafy vegetable with great potential to support food security, especially in tropical regions. As a drought-tolerant plant, chaya is suitable for cultivation under changing climate conditions, including prolonged dry seasons. However, limited research has examined its specific response to varying levels of drought stress and organic fertilizer application. This study aimed to assess the growth and yield response of chaya under different irrigation volumes and manure types. The experiment was conducted from June to September 2024 in the greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, Sriwijaya University, using a factorial randomized block design with two factors: irrigation volume (250 mL, 500 mL, 750 mL per two days) and manure type (no manure, chicken manure, and goat manure). Each treatment combination was replicated three times. Results showed that severe drought stress (250 mL) significantly inhibited plant growth, particularly in terms of shoot length and leaf area. Chicken manure improved soil moisture retention, maintaining levels up to 25% under drought conditions. In contrast, goat manure was more effective in supporting plant growth and yield under limited water availability. These findings suggest that combining appropriate organic amendments with optimized irrigation can enhance the resilience of chaya cultivation in tropical dryland environments.
Effect of different fertilization protocols and cutting intensity on marandu grass
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Ribeiro, A.S.; Pires, A.J.V.; Fries, D.D.; Santos, D.C.; Dutra, I.C.; Oliveira, G.R.S.; Sousa, M.P.; Públio, P.P.P.; Silva, H.S.; Santos, A.P.S.; Amorim, S.S.
The present study aimed to investigate the effects of different cutting intensities, combined with different fertilizations, on the productive characteristics, carbohydrate concentration and photosynthetic pigments of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu. It was carried out in a completely randomized design in which five fertilization treatments were evaluated: a control treatment without fertilizers and four fertilizer combinations (PK; NP; NK; NPK). The cutting intensities tested were 10 and 20 cm in height. There were four replicates per treatment. Plastic pots of 12 liters were used as experimental units, which were filled with 10 dm³ of soil with a clayey-sandy loam texture. Seeds of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu, with 80% of cultural value, were used. There was a significant difference for fertilization with NP and NPK, which resulted in higher production of shoot dry mass (PMSPA), residue dry mass (PMSRE) and root dry mass (PMSRA)in addition to higher concentrations of total soluble sugars in the shoot, residue and root. At a cutting intensity of 20 cm, NK and NPK fertilizations provided the highest levels of chlorophyll a. On the other hand, when analysing chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll at an intensity of 10 cm, NK fertilization presented the highest levels. However, at an intensity of 20 cm, NPK fertilization presented the highest levels of chlorophyll b, carotenoids and total chlorophyll. Regarding starch content, the PK and NPK treatments presented lower values at an intensity of 10 cm, while, at an intensity of 20 cm, NK fertilization resulted in the lowest starch content. Given the results presented, it is concluded that the use of NP fertilization at an intensity of 20 cm is recommended because it provides better indices on photosynthetic pigments, productive characteristics and total soluble sugar contents of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu.
Agronomic and bromatological characteristics of Cassava cultivars
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Silveira, R.B.; Pires, A.J.V.; Dutra, I.C.; Nogueira, M.S.; Andrade, W.R.; Jesus, M.R.; Oliveira, G.R.S.; Oliveira, E.J.; Silva, N.V.; Santos, B.E.F.; Sousa, M.P.; Públio, P.P.P.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of the aerial part of cassava, analyzing its development and nutritional value, in addition to the production of biomass at different times and with different management. A randomized complete block design was used, with six cassava varieties (BRS Formosa, BRS Mulatinha, Eucalyptus, BRS White Pot, BRS Kiriris and BRS New Horizon) and five replicates, harvested six and twelve months after planting, with and without pruning. To evaluate the amount of biomass produced by the aerial part of cassava and the production of roots, a 6×2 factorial scheme in randomized complete blocks design was conducted. Six cassava varieties were tested, each with five replicates. The plants were harvested at two different times: with pruning (harvesting at six and twelve months after planting) and without pruning (single harvest at twelve months). There was an effect for the characteristics plant height, stem diameter, number of stems, number of leaves, lobe length, lobe width and petiole length, however when they were evaluated at twelve months, there was no effect, only for the characteristics lobe length and petiole length. It was found that there was an effect for dry matter, ether extract, hemicellulose and ADF. The BRS White Pot variety presented a higher concentration of non-fibrous carbohydrates. Differences were observed for neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein and lignin. For the values of total digestible nutrients, the cultivars BRS White Pot, BRS New Horizon and BRS Formosa stood out in relation to the others. There was a difference in the protein fractionation of the different cassava cultivars for total nitrogen fraction, fraction A and fraction C when they were harvested six months after planting. However, when they were evaluated at twelve months, there was only an effect for fraction C. There was an effect for CT, fraction A+B1, fraction B2 and fraction C when they were evaluated six months after planting. However, when they were evaluated twelve months after planting there was no difference for total carbohydrates and fraction B2. The interaction was not significant between the different cultivars and pruning management for the production of green matter, dry matter, crude protein, total digestible nutrients of the aerial part and green matter and dry matter of the roots. In management without pruning, there was an increase in the variables PGMPA, PDMPA, PCPPA and PTDNPA. The cultivars BRS Mulatinha and BRS New Horizon are recommended as they present greater leaf retention and number of stems, providing greater biomass production when managed without pruning.
Evaluation of salt tolerance in sugarcane mutant clone M4 through the application of a rhizobacterial consortium
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Hartatik, S.; Wildana, F.; Gusti, A.A.H.; Aurela, R.D.; Setiyono; Avivi, S.; Kim, K.M.; Ubaidillah, M.
Sugarcane is one of the most important commodities in the world, with average global production reaching 1.9 billion tonnes in 2022. However, the availability of productive land does not meet the high production demand. This encourages farmers to utilize suboptimal land to meet global sugar cane needs. The aim of this study was to utilise a rhizobacterial consortium to identify the sugarcane mutant clone M4's salt tolerance, which was compared to the widely used Bululawang variety. The experiment was conducted using a hydroponic system with salt treatment (150 mM NaCl) and varying concentrations of the rhizobacterial consortium (2, 4, and 6 mL). Morphological and physiological parameters were measured to assess the response to salt stress. The findings showed that the M4 clone significantly improved plant height, root length, and total chlorophyll content compared to Bululawang. The application of the rhizobacterial consortium significantly enhanced salt tolerance in both genotypes, with the M4 clone showing a stronger response. Overall, the M4 clone displayed greater potential for cultivation in high-salinity soils, particularly when supported by the application of a rhizobacterial consortium. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of sugarcane varieties with enhanced tolerance to abiotic stress, potentially improving agricultural productivity in suboptimal lands.
Comparison of in vitro regeneration and transformation efficiency among five vietnamese indica rice cultivars
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Cao, L.Q.; Nguyen, P.D.; Pham, X.H.; La, V.H.; Nguyen, X.V.; Nguyen, T.D.
This study optimized the in vitro regeneration and transformation processes for five popular indica rice cultivars in Vietnam named as BC15, Bac Thom 7 (BT7), Khang Dan 18 (KD18), OM5451, and TBR225. The highest callus induction rates (83–93.67%) were achieved on a medium containing 2.5 mgL-l 2,4-D, supplemented with 500 mg L-l each of L-proline, L-glutamine, and casein. Higher or lower concentrations of 2,4-D resulted in reduced callus induction. Among tested cultivars, BT7 exhibited the highest callus induction rate of 93.67%. Shoot regeneration was optimized on a medium with a combination of 0.5 mg L-l kinetin, 2.0 mg L-l BAP, and 0.5 mg L-l NAA, resulting in regeneration rates ranging from 80.23% to 90.77% across cultivars, with BT7 exhibiting the highest regeneration rate (90.77%). Hygromycin at 20 mg L-l was optimal for selecting transgenic calli, with BT7 showing the highest transformation efficiency opdetermined to be optimal for selecting transgenic calli, with BT7 achieving the highest transformation efficiency (44% hygromycin-resistant callus and 29% GUS expression). PCR analysis confirmed a high proportion (87.5%) of transgenic plants in the BT7 cultivar. These findings indicate that the BT7 is the most suitable cultivar for genetic transformation and gene editing applications.
Bolstering household resilience to food insecurity in protracted crisis: the Case of Upper-Nile State, South Sudan
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Bisetsa, E.; Burny, P.; Bititi, G.; Mumararungu, I.; Rwirahira, J.; Rutabagaya, E.
This study assessed food insecurity in four counties of Upper Nile State using the Food Consumption Score (FCS) and Household Hunger Scale (HHS). It also ascertained the coping mechanisms adopted by households in response to food insecurity using the Reduced Coping Strategy Index (rCSI), it also formulated recommendations to bolster the ability of households to withstand food insecurity. Quantitative data were collected through a structured household survey of 440 randomly selected respondents from 21 payams using two-stage cluster sampling with probability proportionate to size. Qualitative data were gathered via focus group discussions and interviews with community leaders. The findings reveal alarming food insecurity levels. Over half (55%) of households fall into the poor FCS category, characterized by minimal dietary diversity and insufficient protein, fruits, and vegetables, while 34.3% are borderline, and only 10.7% achieve acceptable dietary standards. The HHS shows 76.1% of households experience moderate hunger, reflecting significant health and well-being challenges. Coping mechanisms reveal further distress, with Baliet County reporting the highest mean rCSI (21.5), followed by Ulang (20.7), Melut (19.3), and Nasir (18.9). These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions. Recommendations include promoting resilience through diversified livelihood activities such as small-scale agriculture, poultry, and goat-rearing, coupled with training and resource provision. Investments in drought-resistant seeds, improved farming techniques, and market access initiatives are essential. Additionally, community-based projects to rehabilitate irrigation systems and provide agricultural extension services could help sustain food security. The FCS, HHS, and rCSI metrics offer crucial insights into the extent and nature of food insecurity, guiding efforts to support the most vulnerable populations in Upper Nile State.
Gender and intersectional analysis of agricultural value chains for youth engagement in Rwanda
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Rutabagaya, E.; Burny, P.; Ya-Bititi, G.M.; Bisetsa, E.; Mumararungu, I.; Rwirahira, J.
Youth engagement in agriculture is recognized as a quick and effective way to address problems of rural unemployment, poverty and food insecurity. This paper explores factors influencing youth engagement in agricultural value chains across nine districts in Rwanda, focusing on five major crops in Rwanda: maize, Irish potatoes, beans, chilies, and avocados. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods, including a survey of 635 youth engaged in selected value chains across nine districts in Rwanda, supplemented by key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Results from this study revealed a segmentation of youth engagement in value chains along gender lines, both in the selection of value chains and accross different segments. The study identified differences in the prioritization of needs among different youth social identities in agricultural, along with gender disparities in the ownership and control of productive resources. The study further noted that young women encounter particular barriers limiting their participation in leadership roles in agricultural organizations, including limited skills, restricted mobility, low education, and heavy domestic responsibilities. The study recommends deliberate measures to address these challenges, entailing the introduction of financial solutions to improve youth access to productive resources, affirmative actions to enhance young women’s inclusion in lucrative value chain segments, and awareness interventions to address social norms. Likewise, strengthening governance structures of farmer cooperatives for youth engagement will unlock employment opportunities for young people in agriculture.
Biodiversity of phytoplankton (non-diatoms) as bio- indicators in assessing the water quality and trophic status of the Euphrates river between Al- Baghdadi and Al-Ramadi Cities, Western Iraq
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Al-Tamimi, Abdul-Nasir A.M.; Al-Obeidi, Nawras A.S.
Given the global climate changes, especially the drought conditions that Iraq's climate has been suffering from in recent years, along with the stifling water scarcity, the current study aimed to focus on developing quantitative and qualitative tools and strategies for phytoplankton (non-diatoms) as vital indicators in order to protect ecosystems, enhance their resilience, and promote sustainability. Four sites were chosen for the most prominent cities. The main site within the river basin for the period from July 2022 to April 2023 to collect water samples and phytoplankton cells (non-diatoms). The current study showed that the water of the Euphrates River at the current study sites is warm, pH neutral, with high basicity and medium hardness, with EC, TDS and turbidity, and the BOD is high, exceeding permissible limits, with good ventilation. Cl and Na salts, nutrients as NO3, were available in normal proportions, with PO4 concentrations exceeding the permissible limits due to the river water’s impact on agricultural lands around the river basin. During the study, 137 species belonging to five main classes were identified. Chlorophyceae were dominant at a rate of 55%, followed by Cyanophyceae at a rate of 34%, then Euglenophyceae at a rate of 4%, then Pyrrophyceae at a rate of 4%, and Chrysophyceae at a rate of 1%, where the highest density was recorded. For phytoplankton cells (non-diatoms) in site 1 (Al-Baghdadi) 2,438.8 cells L-1, while the lowest density was recorded in site 4 (Al-Ramadi Dam) 1,761.2 cells L-1. The results of biodiversity indices showed that the waters of the Euphrates River have low to moderate biological diversity, little to moderate pollution, and moderate species richness, with high homogeneity in their distribution between sites. The predominant groups of species during the study period were Oscillatoria formosa, Pediastrum simplex, p. duplex, Scenedesmus alternate, S. dimorphus, S. quadricauda, S. artcuatus var. platydiscus, microporium crassior, Pediastrium boryanum, Coeloastrum microporium, Chrococcus limeticus, C. minor.
Efficiency of seed priming and co-treatment strategies in salt effect mitigation using Nicotiana glauca leaf extract on tomato seedlings (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Maaroufi-Dguimi, H.; Gamal Mohammed, S.; Nasraoui Hajaji, A.; Abdalgadir, H.
The Al-Baha region suffers from soil salinity, negatively impacting agriculture. Current study examined aqueous extracts from Nicotiana glauca as plant-based biostimulants to alleviate salinity's effects and reduce chemical fertilizer use. An aqueous extract of N. glauca, applied in ascending doses of 20%, 50%, and 100%, was being used. This biostimulant was applied using two methods: seed priming and co-treatment on the seeds of Solanum lycopersicum L. Results indicated that all tested doses, whether applied through seed priming or co-treatment, enhanced the final germination percentage (FGP) and reduced the mean germination time (MGT) under saline conditions. With priming, the 20% dose was most effective in reducing salt treatment effects on FGP, improving it by 5% compared to untreated salt-stressed seeds. In co-treatment, the 100% dose showed a 4.5% reduction in FGP decline referring to untreated and stressed seeds. For priming treatments, the 20% dose reduced MGT by 22%, while the 50% dose in co-treatment reduced it by 28% compared to untreated and stressed seeds. The priming strategy used in this study did not result in significant enhancements in growth parameters, particularly in the fresh weight (FW) and dry weight (DW) of the epicotyls. As priming, the 20% dose had the most significant mitigation effect on epicotyl FW, DW and chlorophyll (Chl) content by 15%, 10% and 30% referring to untreated and stressed seedlings, respectively. However, all tested biostimulant doses used as co-treatment proved effective in mitigating the negative effects of salt on epicotyl and root FW, DW, and Chl content. Seedlings treated with various strategies and doses showed a smaller increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) and proline (Pro) levels under salinity stress. As stress indicators, both Pro and MDA levels were significantly reduced when a co-treatment strategy was applied. Furthermore, the results indicated that the effectiveness of the N. glauca aqueous extract in alleviating salt stress could be attributed to its content of several phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins, which possess antioxidant properties that enhance the plant's tolerance against salt-induced oxidative stress.

Sirvi

Viimati lisatud