Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The mobilization of reserves determines the formation of seedlings during germination, being influenced by seed vigor and adverse stress conditions. Seeds with higher vigor have greater potential for mobilization of reserves, and it can favor performance under conditions of salt stress. The objective of this study was to identify how the mobilization of reserves stored in common bean seeds contributes to the overcoming of salt stress, seeking to identify the difference in hydrolysis and mobilization of reserves among seeds with superior vigor. Seeds from two genotypes contrasting in vigor (BAF44 and BAF55) were used. Salt stress was simulated using sodium chloride, and evaluations were performed at one, three, five and seven days of germination. The variables analyzed in seedling was length, dry mass, and metabolic expenditure, while biochemical analyses of total starch, total protein, total soluble sugars, total soluble proteins, and alpha-amylase activity were evaluated in the embryonic axis and/or cotyledons. The salt stress condition negatively affected the performance of the seedlings, resulting in a decrease in length, mass accumulation, and reduced use of seed reserves, associated with a lower hydrolysis of starch and proteins. Seeds with higher vigor showed higher dry mass and seedling length even when subjected to salt stress conditions, because of greater hydrolysis capacity and use of soluble proteins and soluble sugars, which result in seedlings with better performance under control and salt stress conditions.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT In the soybean crop, seed treatment is widespread, often with the use of several products. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of phytosanitary and functional products used in such treatments on the quality of stored soybean seeds. The seeds were treated with combinations of fungicide, insecticide, polymer, finishing powder, graphite, cobalt-molybdenum (CM), and inoculant. Quality evaluations were made at 0, 15, 30, 60, and 90 days of storage after the treatment by means of the following tests: germination, seedling emergence, modified accelerated aging in substrate, primary root length, as well as quantification of dust-off of the seeds. A completely randomized experimental design was used in a 10 × 5 factorial arrangement, involving 10 seed treatment compositions and five storage periods. To avoid harmful effects on physiological quality, CM and graphite added to the phytosanitary products should be used nearer to sowing, in a period of less than 15 days. Seeds with the basic industrial seed treatment used as a technological package in most seed production companies (fungicide, insecticides, and polymer) maintained physiological quality up to 60 days of storage. An excessive number of products use as seed treatment in this study, consisting of more than five, can negatively affect seed quality, even in a short storage period of 15 days. The composition of the treatment directly affects the dust-off of the seeds, especially combinations that include finishing powder and graphite.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT This study aimed at establishing the ideal sample size for evaluating the maturation cycle in Coffea arabica, and investigating the errors associated with different sample sizes, in addition to verifying the possibility of using the clustering method to separate genotypes according to the maturation stage. Two experiments were analyzed: one with F2:3 progenies using visual maturation assessment through fruit counting, and another with cultivars using image processing for maturation assessment. To determine the ideal sample size for this trait, we used the estimation of the errors associated with maturation, using the bootstrap technique. Subsequently, the K-means algorithm was tested as an alternative for clustering genotypes into maturation classes. The application of the bootstrap technique in order to estimate the error associated with maturation revealed that the adoption of a 450-mL sample size resulted in an associated error of approximately 5%, indicating that it is an adequate size for character assessment. The implementation of K-means as a clustering tool offers a promising perspective for Arabica coffee plant breeding programs. A more comprehensive analysis, which not only assesses the proportion of ripe fruits, but also considers the distribution of different maturation stages, provides a more accurate understanding of the maturation process. This allows a more precise identification of genotypes with the most suitable performance for different growing conditions, as well as enabling adjustments in harvest management and post-harvest processing, optimizing coffee quality.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Breeding of new cultivars of sugarcane uses several species belonging to the Saccharum complex genus. In this study, a set of 20 genotypes from the Saccharum complex was assessed for their growth promotion during germination using a mixed inoculant containing five selected diazotrophs and their resistance to short heat treatment (52°C / 30 min). The percentage of germination was evaluated, leading to the identification of three response groups. Saccharum officinarum (group I) showed the highest germination percentage, succeeded by Erianthus arundinaceus genotypes (group II) and the other genotypes (group III). The mean germination time (MGT) varied among the genotypes and segregated the growth response into two groups. Saccharum officinarum only required less than 15 days to reach the MGT, whereas the other genera required more than two or three days during the initial growth process. Bacterial counting also differed between the groups, being effective for S. officinarum and other genotypes, improving the colonization of the plants 100–1,000 times higher than the control and heat treatments. Further comparison was made among eight genotypes, including one Saccharum spontaneum(US72-1319), one S. officinarum (IN845), and six E. arundinaceus. This comparison measured biomass accumulation and root parameters. The E. arundinaceus group demonstrated less susceptibility to the heat treatment, resulting in stimulation of the root dry mass of IJ76-381 and root parameters of this genotype, as well as IJ76-364, although not associated to the inoculation treatment. Inoculation applied to US72-1319 and IN845 enhanced only the Shoot/Root ratio.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Beginning with anthesis, this study aimed to evaluate the growth evolution of fruits of nine genotypes of Conilon coffee with an early cycle of maturation that were cultivated at a transitional altitude. The experiment was conducted in a competition field with Coffea canephora genotypes at a 647-m altitude, following a randomized block design with nine treatments, four replicates, and the genotypes making up the cultivar “Diamante ES8112” (101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, and 109). From the anthesis day, evaluations were made every 28 days, ending with the harvest, at which time the characteristics of growth and biomass accumulation of flowers and fruits of each genotype were evaluated. All analyzed characteristics of the flowers and fruits cultivated at a transitional altitude showed differentiation between the nine early-maturing Conilon genotypes. Altitude cultivation increased the duration of fruit development phases, averaging from 252 to 308 days among genotypes, from anthesis to harvest. Genotype 106 stood out for the fewest flowers and fruits per reproductive node and lowest fruit holding rates and dry biomass, whereas genotype 108 stood out for the most flowers and fruits per reproductive node, largest flower diameter, highest fruit holding rate, and greatest dry biomass.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT While drought negatively affects plant production, vermicompost and grafted seedlings offer a promising strategy to reduce these effects. This study, conducted in Ankara (greenhouse) and Antalya (field) provinces in 2020–2021, investigated the effects of grafting and vermicompost on morphophysiological traits, yield, and water efficiency of eggplant under drought stress. The greenhouse experiment was conducted in a factorial design (n = 3), and the field experiment was conducted using a split-split plot design (n = 3). In the greenhouse, grafted and non-grafted plants were subjected to three irrigation levels—100%, 70%: moderate stress (MS), 30%: severe stress (SS)—and vermicompost doses (0, 1, 2, 3%). Under MS conditions, grafted plants supplemented with 2% vermicompost showed significant improvements: shoot fresh weight increased by 48.81%, dry weight by 42.92%, shoot length by 49.52%, and stomatal conductance by 88.89%, while yield losses were reduced by 96% and irrigation water productivity improved by 62.79%. Field experiments applied the same irrigation levels (SS = 0.30 Epan, MS = 0.70 Epan, control = 1.00 Epan), and the optimal vermicompost dose (2%) identified in the greenhouse trials. Under MS, shoot fresh and dry weights increased by 121.20 and 162.18%, respectively, with total productivity rising by 101.13%. The innovative contribution of this study lies in its synergistic integration of grafting and vermicompost, two sustainable practices previously untested in eggplant cultivation to mitigate drought effects across both fields. The results demonstrated that this strategy reduces yield losses by 96% under severe stress and doubles productivity under moderate drought, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for water-limited agriculture.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Mapping resistant populations makes it possible to identify the evolution and dispersal of resistance cases, providing important information for control-related decision making. This study aimed to identify and map herbicide-resistant sourgrass (Digitaria insularis) populations in Brazilian regions. The results showed no glufosinate resistance, with 485 samples (96.6%) classified as putative resistant to glyphosate, while nine (1.8%) and five (1%) were considered putative resistant to haloxyfop and clethodim, respectively. Two samples were deemed putative resistant to three herbicides (glyphosate, haloxyfop, and clethodim). One of the samples characterized as a control failure for all three herbicides was used on the dose-response curve. This biotype was identified as glyphosate-resistant, with low-level resistance to clethodim and haloxyfop. Based on C50, resistance factors of 10.96, 3.26, and 3.15 were identified for glyphosate, clethodim, and haloxyfop, respectively. Mapping sourgrass resistance is vital to understand and ensure the early identification and quantification of the frequency of these plants.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The present study investigated the impact of different concentrations of Trichoderma harzianum on the growth variables of tomato plants infected with both root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita) and the bacterial wilt pathogen (Ralstonia solanacearum). Application of T. harzianum significantly improved growth variables such as shoot and root lengths and shoot weight (p 0.001), with the highest growth observed at the concentration of 1×104 spores/mL. Lower concentrations (8×103 and 2×103 spores/mL) also enhanced growth, but to a lesser extent. Notably, root weight decreased, indicating reduced gall formation, a positive outcome against nematode infestation. The study revealed that T. harzianum significantly reduced the number of galls, eggmasses, and nematode reproduction factors (p 0.001). The highest concentration (1×104 spores/mL) was most effective, followed by 8×103 spores/mL, demonstrating a dose-responsive reduction in these parameters. Regression analysis showed positive correlations between decreased gall numbers and increased shoot and root lengths and weights, as well as between reduced eggmasses and improved growth variables. Regarding disease severity, increasing concentrations of T. harzianum notably decreased the severity of both root-knot nematodes and bacterial wilt compared to the control. The control treatment exhibited a 72.5% severity, whereas treatments with T. harzianum reduced severity to 51–55.5%, and the highest concentration reduced it to 2.5%. This trend was consistent for bacterial wilt severity. The results indicate that T. harzianum effectively colonizes tomato roots, inhibiting pathogen entry and reducing disease severity more effectively at higher concentrations.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The herbicides glyphosate and 2,4-D are widely used to control weeds in various crops. The rubber tree crop is exposed to these molecules, which can interfere with its establishment. This study aimed to assess the effects caused by the drift of glyphosate, 2,4-D, and the combination of both, in different proportions corresponding to 0, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64% of the recommended dose (1,440 and 804 g a·e·ha-1 of glyphosate and 2,4-D, respectively). The characteristic symptoms when 2,4-D was present in the drift began with wilting and shriveling of young leaves and, at the highest doses, quickly progressed to chlorosis, shoot epinasty, and edge necrosis, while mature leaves showed a brown color, culminating in a high rate of fall. The effects of glyphosate were intensified after leaf flushing, which occurred 120 days after its application and resulted in long, narrow, twisted leaves in a spiral shape and deformed shoots. Drift above 32% from the combination of glyphosate and 2,4-D resulted in a high mortality rate, while 16% damaged growth and resulted in the death of some plants. The results indicate that drift from the combination of glyphosate and 2,4-D intensifies the symptoms of phytotoxicity in rubber trees, with drift above 8% being harmful. For the herbicides applied alone, there was full recovery of the plants in the drift of up to 16%, so it is important to avoid the drift of these herbicides in the management of weeds in the rubber tree crop.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Although plant breeding and chemical approaches contribute to disease control, they are not able to completely contain it, due to the ability of the pathogen to resist against the fungicides and may overcome the resistance offered by plants of certain genotypes. Endophytic Penicillium citrinum strains GP1 and GP3, inoculated on seeds before sowing or sprayed on leaves, reduced the severity of rice blast while improving the growth of rice plants from cultivar BRSMG Caçula. Rice seed treatment with conidia of P. citrinum GP3, prior to seeding, led to a 58% reduction of blast severity. An association of GP1 and GP3 applied via seed treatment or foliar spray decreased blast severity by 33 and 37%, respectively. The area under the disease progress curve of the treatment of seeds (T5) with GP3 was lower than other treatments. For plant growth promotion, the association of GP1 and GP3 significantly enhanced the number of tillers per plant with 11 as compared to control, 10. Microscopic analysis revealed the endophytic colonization of rice root tissues by Penicillium GP1 and GP3. The P. citrinum reduced blast in rice plants while improving their fitness.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The São Francisco Submedium Valley in Brazil is the country’s most important table grape exportation region. In 2015, a new pest was reported in the area, the American grapevine moth Lasiothyris luminosa (Razowski & Becker) (Tortricidae), causing significant damage from the bud flowers until the grape berries in the harvesting period. The present work aimed to evaluate artificial diets to guarantee the rearing of L. luminosa in laboratory conditions. Two artificial diets used to rear Anticarsia gemmatalis Hübner and Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) were compared to the species’ natural host (grape berries). It was evaluated the larva, pupal, and larval-pupal period, longevity, fecundity, larval and pupal viability, and sex ratio. L. luminosa completed its cycle in both artificial diets, making it possible to use both to maintain the species in the laboratory. The larval and larval-adult period were shorter for the treatment with A. gemmatalis artificial diet. Also, this diet provided greater pupal viability and higher fecundity. Thus, the A. gemmatalis diet is more indicated to rear L. luminosa in the laboratory than the H. zea diet and grape berries.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Root-knot, caused by Meloidogyne javanica, is a serious disease on tomato. This study aimed to investigate the potential of using Lentinula edodes and Pleurotus eryngii to boost the resistance of tomato roots against infection by M. javanica. Tomato plants were grown in different conditions: substrate made of a mixture of soil with sand (SS) and infested with M. javanica; substrate made of a mixture of SS with mushroom (SSM) and colonized by L. edodes; SSM colonized by L. edodes and infested with M. javanica; SSM colonized by P. eryngii; and SSM colonized by P. eryngii and infested with M. javanica. Root samples were examined at 0, 4, 10, and 20 days after growing the tomato plants to determine the fresh weight of roots, activities of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), chitinase (CHI), and β-1,3-glucanase (GLU), as well as the concentration of phenolics. There was no significant difference in PAL activity nor in the concentration of phenolics regardless of treatments and sampling time. Activities of CHI and GLU were greater for plants grown on SSM colonized by either L. edodes or P. eryngii regardless of the presence of M. javanica. Mushroom substrates enhance tomato plant defenses against root-knot nematodes by increasing CHI and GLU activities, suggesting potential for both direct antagonistic effects and indirect stimulation of plant resistance mechanisms.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The genus Metarhizium is extremely diverse, with 66 species described worldwide, among which 60 are entomopathogenic. Despite the diversity of 14 species found in Brazil, Metarhizium anisopliae is the fungal species with the highest number of registered products. It is an active ingredient in 100 products, while Metarhizium rileyi is in only four. This was the first on-farm-produced fungus in Brazil by sugarcane mills in the 1960s to control sugarcane leafhoppers. Currently, more than 50 on-farm biofactories produce this fungus for application on more than 2 million hectares, making it the largest microbial control program in the world. Brazilian producers have often used fungi in a mixture with synthetic chemical insecticides, aiming at shock action by the chemical and the residual action of the biological (55% of producers use biocontrol agents in a mixture with chemicals for pest control). The impact of M. anisopliae as a mycoinsecticide has recently been enhanced by the discovery that it colonizes plant roots, which can exploit its ability to control disease, promote plant growth, and as a bioprotectant. This systematic review demonstrates that Metarhizium is a versatile fungus adaptable to diverse environments and has remarkable genetic, physiological, and ecological flexibility, making it the most widely used fungus for pest control. In addition, the prospects for future studies and increasing the use of this fungus to mitigate the damage caused by pests in Brazilian crops are discussed.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Bacillus subtilis has been recognized as an efficient biological controller against Meloidogyne spp. in roots of annual crops, but its efficiency in fruit tree roots remains poorly known. This study assessed the effect of the new B. subtilis strain (PRBS-1) on the suppression of Meloidogyne spp. in the soil and roots of banana, guava, and fig in field conditions naturally infested with the nematode. Thus, B. subtilis suspension was inoculated directly to the soil surface around the stem of these fruit trees at the dose of 1 L·ha-1 (100 L of water), while plants not treated were used as control. The number of Meloidogyne spp. in the soil and roots was assessed before and after (three months) the application. The samples were collected from the central plants of the plot, at 20 cm from the stem and 5–30 cm soil layer of depth. B. subtilis promoted a decrease in the population of Meloidogyne spp. in soil and roots of fruit trees after three months of application, being more effective in decreasing Meloidogyne spp. in roots than soil. The decrease in Meloidogyne spp. in roots with the application of B. subtilis ranged from 70.1 to 86.3% in the roots of guava and fig, respectively. In the soil, the application B. subtilis decreased from 29.8 to 73.4% of the population of Meloidogyne spp. Therefore, this study showed that B. subtilis has potential as a biological control agent against Meloidogyne spp., in banana, guava, and fig roots.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Meloidogyne paranaensis is one of the most damaging species of root-knot nematode to coffee trees. The development of resistant cultivars is crucial to the continuity of cultivation in infested areas. Thus, the aims of this study were to assess the performance of F6:7 progenies derived from the Amphillo germplasm in an infested area and to validate the new Coffea arabica MGS Vereda and MGS Guaiçara cultivars. The Catuaí Amarelo IAC 62 cultivar was used as the susceptible standard, and IPR 100 as the resistance standard. The experiment was conducted in 2018 using a randomized complete block design with four replications and 15 plants per plot. Resistance related and agronomic traits were assessed over four years. The lowest population of M. paranaensis was observed in progenies 88, 44B, and 105 from MGS Guaiçara, MGS Vereda, and IPR 100 cultivars, respectively. The progenies with the lowest population of M. paranaensis, although resistant, were not productive. The new MGS Vereda cultivar stood out in terms of yield and early fruit ripening, with the highest proportion of cherry fruit at harvest and a low incidence of peaberry grain. The results suggest MGS Vereda cultivar’s potential for the renewal of coffee cultivations occurs in a rainfed system according to the environmental conditions of the experiment.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Papaya sticky disease is one of the main diseases of agricultural crops in Brazil. It is characterized by the spontaneous exudation of latex in the fruits, which oxidizes, giving the fruit a sticky appearance. These symptoms are associated with a mixed infection formed by the papaya meleira virus and the newly discovered papaya meleira virus 2 (PMeV2). This work aimed to molecularly characterize the first PMeV2 isolate from northeastern Brazil; to estimate the phylogenetic relationships of this isolate with the other viruses of the Tombusviridae family; and in addition, to estimate the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships between PMeV2 isolates. The obtained sequence was named PMeV2-RN, which has 4,435 nucleotides and showed 94% identity with the isolate PMeV2-ES from Espírito Santo, Brazil. The sequence contains two predicted open reading frames (ORFs) in different reading phases. ORF1 encodes a 238 amino acid polypeptide that has 88% identity with the corresponding PMeV2-ES protein. ORF2 encodes a protein of 473 amino acids that presents 100% identity with the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) protein of PMeV2-ES. Phylogenetic analyses showed a greater proximity between isolate PMeV2-ES and isolates papaya virus Q (PpVQ) and PMeV-Mx than with PMeV2-RN, which seems to belong to a distinct lineage of this virus in Brazil. The comparative analysis of the nucleotide sequences among the isolates obtained in different producing regions of the northeast region of Brazil indicated a high degree of similarity between the sequences. It showed a high degree of conservation among the isolates, which did not form geographically structured groups.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Aphelenchoides besseyi sensu lato is an emerging nematode that causes green stem and foliar retention syndrome in soybeans and cotton. As sustainable agriculture gains importance, biological control agents (BCAs) have become a key strategy for pest management. However, the influence of A. besseyi s. l. mycophagous behavior on fungal BCAs remains unclear. This study examined its feeding and reproductive abilities of eight fungal isolates commonly used in disease biological control: Trichoderma afroharzianum (T10), Pochonia chlamydosporia (PC10), Pochonia boninensis (PC17), Clonostachys pseudochroleuca (C05), Clonostachys chloroleuca (C17), Clonostachys farinosa (C35), Clonostachys rogersoniana (C101), and Clonostachys rosea (C133). The isolates were cultured on oatmeal agar (OA) and potato dextrose agar (PDA) and inoculated with A. besseyi s. l. The nematode fed and reproduced on T10, PC10, PC17, and C35 across both media. On C101 and C05, reproduction occurred only on PDA and OA, respectively, with mortality observed on C05 in OA. Feeding or reproduction was absent on C17 and C133, highlighting their potential as BCAs against A. besseyi s. l. These findings emphasize A. besseyi s. l.’s capacity to exploit fungal BCAs in vitro, which may undermine fungal disease control in infested areas.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT When implementing path analysis between technological and nutritional traits in common bean without considering the degree of multicollinearity, it is important to assess whether there will be errors in indirect selection. This study proposed: to assess path analysis under different degrees of multicollinearity for technological and nutritional traits in common bean; and to recognize the degree of multicollinearity that allows an accurate interpretation of direct and indirect effects of these traits for the indirect selection of fast-cooking. Then, 10 technological traits and seven nutritional traits were measured in 25 common bean cultivars obtained across four experiments. Path analysis was carried out using different degrees of multicollinearity: severe (including all traits), moderate to strong (excluding three traits), and weak (excluding four traits). The magnitude and algebraic sign of direct and indirect effects between technological and nutritional traits varied when path analysis was performed using different degrees of multicollinearity. With severe multicollinearity (condition number = 6,798.28), regression coefficient values were excessively high and in an unfavorable direction for selection. Under weak multicollinearity (condition number = 66.21), the value and sign of the generated correlation coefficients were more in line with the biological phenomenon studied, allowing for an accurate interpretation of the direct and indirect effects of technological and nutritional traits on cooking time. Indirect selection based on the lowest values of mass of 100 grains and calcium concentration is recommended in this study for the selection of fast-cooking common bean cultivars.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Herrania umbratica, a native species of South America, is used as a wild cacao source parallelly with Theobroma cacao. Despite its importance, its genomic information are not well presented and available. The gene models and proteins of H. umbratica with T. cacao, three Malvaceae species and three model plants were compared. H. umbratica shared the most proteins and genes with T. cacao, with more than 96% of similarity. The next close species to H. umbratica was Durio zibethinus followed by Gossypium raimondii and Corchorus capsularis. Species-specific genes of H. umbratica like Glu S. griseus protease inhibitor, WRKY34, disease resistance protein At4g27190, RPP13, and CEP are involved in disease response, stress adaptation, and growth and development. Five copies of theobromine synthase genes were revealed for H. umbratica and 10 for T. cacao. By blastn, blastp and blastx respectively, 2,179 gene models, 2,488 proteins and 2,722 gene models distributed in 58 transcription factors families were disclosed for H. umbratica. C2H2 with 739 members, WD40-like with 404, and MYB-HB-like with 311 were the top transcription factors. Simple sequence repeat species-specific markers were one deca-nucleotide unit (TTATTAAATG)3 and five nona-nucleotide units including (AAAAACAAA)3, (CAACAGCAG)3, (GACGATGAC)3, (GACGATGAC)3, and (TGGCGGTGG)3. This study disclosed that H. umbratica is a natural wild genetic resource for cacao breeding and can be used as a reliable gene pool to ameliorate cacao vegetation form, production, disease resistance, and stress adaptation.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT This study investigated the response of arabica coffee plants to the pathogen Pseudomonas coronafaciens pv. garcae using RNA-seq technology. Susceptible and resistant coffee plants were inoculated with the bacteria, and leaf samples were collected at different time points for RNA sequencing. Seven genes related to different defense pathways were chosen for expression quantification in time-course experiments using infected leaves from resistant and susceptible plants, as well as non-infiltrated and water-infiltrated leaves as controls. The results obtained revealed that response mechanisms differ between genotypes and provide insights into the genetic basis of early defense in coffee plants against P. coronafaciens pv. garcae, offering potential strategies for genetic breeding.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Common bacterial blight (CBB), caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli, is the main bacterial disease affecting the production of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), with significant impacts on Brazilian agriculture. The search for resistant genotypes is a fundamental strategy, given the prevalence and persistence of the pathogen in tropical conditions. Therefore, this study aimed to identify candidate genes for resistance to CBB through association mapping studies, using 126 Middle-American bean genotypes from the germplasm bank of the Instituto de Desenvolvimento Rural do Paraná. A randomized block design with four replications was used. The inoculation method was by cutting the leaves with scissors, using the isolate Xap-139y at a concentration of 107 CFU·mL-1, and the variables final score and area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) were evaluated. The expected performance of the means and the genetic parameters were estimated using the Selegen software. The GEN203 genotype was considered resistant for AUDPC and final score. Using multi-locus models (FASTmrMLM, ISIS-EM-BLASSO, mrMLM, pLARmEB), we identified 11 quantitative trait nucleotides associated with CBB resistance and 48 candidate genes in the resistance response. These genes act in several metabolic pathways, suggesting a complex polygenic inheritance. This work contributes significantly to understanding the genetic basis of resistance to CBB and the development of bean cultivars with better adaptability and productivity in regions affected by the disease.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Melon (Cucumis melo L.) is cultivated worldwide, with prominence in the Northeast region of Brazil, due to its favorable soil and climate conditions. However, over the years, the genotype × environment (GxE) interaction phenomenon has been occurred, which can complicate the selection process depending on its extent (whether it is a simple or complex interaction). In this context, melon breeding programs aim to identify adaptable and stable genotypes, capable of reaching their maximum potential. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to investigate GxE interactions and identify cultivars with greater adaptability and phenotypic stability using various methods for comparison. Thirteen melon hybrids were assessed in four municipalities in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, across two planting dates, totaling eight distinct environments. The experiments were conducted in randomized complete blocks with three replications. The traits evaluated included the number of fruits per plant and total soluble solids. Several adaptability and stability methods were employed and compared including Wricke, Eberhart and Russell, Lin and Binns, Annicchiarico, GGE Biplot, and Resende (harmonic mean of relative performance of genotypic values). Significant GxE interaction for the number of fruits per plant was found to be simple, whereas for soluble solids, it was crossed. The methods of Linn and Binns, Annicchiarico, and Resende showed strong correlations among them and were all correlated with the trait mean. The HA-08 hybrid emerged as the most promising, exhibiting high number of fruits per plant, high soluble solids content, and exceptional adaptability and stability.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Jambu is important nationally and internationally for its dietary and medicinal use, notably for espilanthol. Despite its versatility, breeding work is scarce. This study aimed to evaluate aerial traits and estimate genetic parameters in jambu accesses to support a breeding program. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse at the Universidade Federal da Amazônia, Capitão Poço campus. The treatments included 172 genotype clones from seven municipalities in the Northeast mesoregion, obtained from a farmer’s market. Seedlings were cloned and transplanted after three weeks. The design was completely randomized with three replications and 20 cm × 20 cm spacing. At harvest, genotypes were manually removed and taken to the Campus Agricultural Engineering Laboratory to measure 17 aerial part traits. Variance components, genotypic values, and genetic parameters were estimated using REML/BLUP methodology. Genetic and phenotypic correlation matrices and selection gains of 75, 50, and 25% of the genotypes were calculated. Significant genetic variance and high heritability were observed for traits such as plant fresh mass, leaf fresh mass, and stem fresh mass, which are favorable for selection. Indirect selection can enhance leaf and capitula mass without significantly increasing stem diameter. Selecting 50% of the population yields good selection gains without compromising genetic variability.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT This study sought to identify superior genotypes of Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora suitable for agroforestry systems. The experiment took place in two distinct environments: monoculture and an agroforestry system featuring rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis). Employing a randomized complete block design with four replications, the plants were spaced 3 m apart between rows and 1 m between plants in monoculture. In the agroforestry system, the spacing widened to 8 m between rows and 1 m between plants. The evaluation encompassed 11 genotypes, with 10 plants per plot in monoculture and 18 in the agroforestry system. Thirteen morpho-agronomic characteristics, spanning plant shape, uniformity of maturation, fruit size, vigor, pest and disease resistance, and production, were assessed. Employing the restricted maximum likelihood method and the best unbiased linear prediction method in the Selegen software facilitated data analysis, and selection was executed through the Mulamba-Rank index. Comparative analysis revealed that mean values for the evaluated characteristics were consistently higher in the agroforestry system compared to monoculture. Notably, clones A1, 5V, 308 and LB1 (C. canephora) emerged as the most promising genotypes in agroforestry system. Consequently, these clones stand out as robust candidates for inclusion in the composition of varieties tailored for agroforestry systems. This research offers valuable insights into optimizing coffee cultivation in the context of sustainable agroforestry practices.

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ABSTRACT The species Psidium guajava L., commonly known as guava, is distinguished in the genus Psidium for its economic importance and medicinal properties. This study aimed to assess the population structures in 247 guava genotypes, which were organized into 11 full-sib families (FSF), and to explore the differentiation of these FSF based on phenotypic traits and single nucleotide polymorphism molecular markers. The study utilized a randomized block design to evaluate 10 phenotypic variables and 7,784 polymorphic markers, derived from leaf samples through genetic sequencing using DArTseq technology. The diversity among individuals was quantified using the Mahalanobis’ generalized distance. The UPGMA clustering method identified three homogenous clusters in the families. Excoffier’s analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) demonstrated significant variability both between and in these clusters, with inter-group variability accounting for about 20% of the total variation. The genetic distance between individuals, calculated using molecular markers, was determined by the arithmetic complement of the unweighted similarity index. Ward’s method delineated five subpopulations. AMOVA further verified significant variability both between and in these subpopulations, attributing 89% of the total variation to differences between the groups formed. Eleven FSF could not be differentiated based on the analyzed data. Nevertheless, the analyses confirmed substantial genetic diversity, endorsing the continuity of the breeding program through selection and future crosses.

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ABSTRACT In upland rice breeding programs, it is crucial to develop both high-yielding and early flowering lines. A successful strategy for accumulating favorable alleles in a population and increasing selection gains is the recurrent selection. This method involves repeatedly selecting and intercrossing progenies that exhibit favorable traits, with the goal of accumulating these traits in the population and subsequently extracting superior lines. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate F2:4 and F2:5 progenies from the recurrent selection population UFLA-P1 at cycle 0 for early flowering and grain yield. The total of 152 F2:4 progenies was evaluated in 12 × 13 triple alpha-lattice design, totaling 468 plots. From this evaluation, 26 genotypes were selected to be included in the elite lines trial of the upland rice breeding program (MelhorArroz). Among these, 100 progenies were assessed: 26 F2:5 progenies from the recurrent selection program, 72 F4:6 progenies from MelhorArroz, and two commercial lines as controls. The annual gain achieved through recurrent selection for days to flowering was -3.48%. Additionally, 11 F2:5 progenies from the UFLA-P1 population demonstrated superior performance for early flowering, grain yield, and other favorable phenotypic traits. These progenies were selected for advancement, with the aim of releasing superior lines. This study demonstrates the potential to develop superior lines for early flowering and grain yield in upland rice, starting from cycle 0 in recurrent selection.

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ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity among 49 maize cultivars, including 43 popcorn cultivars, two common maize, two sweet maize, and two hominy maize, using multivariate statistical techniques to identify genetic groups and their implications for breeding. The experiment was conducted by a complete block design with randomized treatments and three replications. Agronomic, chemical, and physical traits were assessed, and statistical analyses included the Mahalanobis distance, multivariate analysis of variance, clustering methods such as unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic mean, modified Tocher, k-means, and Kohonen self-organizing maps, alongside Bayesian hierarchical clustering. Significant genetic variability (p 0.05) was observed, with Viçosa and Dow2B433PW showing the greatest divergence (910.60), while Xuxu Viçosa and Beija-Flor exhibited the closest genetic similarity (18.26). The trait pericarp thermal diffusivity contributed most to differentiation (24.36%), demonstrating its relevance for popcorn expansion capacity. The clustering methodologies efficiently classified genetic diversity, allowing the identification of promising genotypes for crosses. This study highlights the effectiveness of integrating traditional multivariate analyses with advanced artificial intelligence approaches, such as Kohonen maps and Bayesian clustering, for genetic diversity studies. Selecting genetically distant genotypes, such as Viçosa and Dow2B433PW, offers potential for heterotic gains, while closer genotypes like Xuxu Viçosa and Beija-Flor are valuable for preserving specific traits. These findings emphasize the importance of combining different statistical techniques to refine breeding strategies, optimize productivity, and enhance the adaptability and quality of maize cultivars under various conditions.

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ABSTRACT The analysis of genetic variability in germplasm banks is essential for the success of breeding programs. However, such analyses traditionally require time, labor, and high financial resources. With the growing accessibility of equipment and decreasing costs of image acquisition and processing, image phenotyping emerges as a promising tool for carrying out fast, precise, and highly accurate assessments. This study aimed to assess the efficiency of digital image-based phenotyping in characterizing the genetic diversity of Butia capitata genotypes contributing to breeding and conservation strategies. Digital image analysis was applied to assess fruits from 59 genotypes, estimating the following parameters: area, perimeter, average, minimum and maximum radius, largest diameter, eccentricity, and colorimetric indices (L, a*, and b*) – L* represents luminosity, and a* and b* indicate chromaticity. The regression analysis between measurements obtained with a digital caliper and those generated by image processing resulted in a high coefficient of determination (r2 = 0.861), confirming the methodology’s practicality and accuracy. The significant genetic diversity observed among genotypes highlights their potential for targeted selection in breeding programs. Genotypes GN55, GN3, GN25, GN1, GN10, GN59, GN43, GN18, and GN13 stood out for producing larger fruits.

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ABSTRACT Huanglongbing (HLB) is a severe disease affecting citrus worldwide, caused by Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas). Transgenic plants overexpressing genes that confer resistance to CLas could serve as an effective strategy for controlling HLB. Transgenic citrus plants were previously developed to overexpress the Citrus sinensis (CsICS) (isochorismate synthase) gene, which is involved in salicylic acid (SA) biosynthesis and may activate systemic acquired resistance (SAR) to bacterial infection. This study evaluated the response of these plants to CLas infection. Transgenic sweet orange plants cv. Hamlin were challenged against CLas by grafting infected citrus buds, and infection was firstly detected at six months post-inoculation via quantitative polymerase chain reaction. From six to 30 months post-inoculation (mpi), CLas titer, symptom expression, and disease severity were assessed. Gene expression analysis was performed for C. sinensis, nonexpressor of PR genes 1 (CsPR1) and salicylic acid carboxyl methyltransferase (CsSAMT), which are associated with SAR and SA production. Plants of the events CsICS 4-4 and 6-11 exhibited infection rates of 7.7 and 6.6%, respectively, while CsICS 4-19 showed 28% infection, compared to 64% in wild-type plants. The CsICS 4-4 event demonstrated increased resistance and significantly lower bacterial concentrations (7.15 × 103 CLas per gram of tissue) compared to the wild type (1.77 × 106 CLas per gram of tissue) at 12 mpi. Notably, CsICS 4-4 plants lacked characteristic HLB symptoms. Gene expression analysis confirmed that CsICS gene expression was upregulated in transgenic plants regardless CLas infection. The transgenic events showed a significant response to CLas, with reduced symptom severity and fewer infected plants, highlighting their potential for HLB management.

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ABSTRACT Colletotrichum graminicola (Ces.) G. W. Wilson is the causal agent of anthracnose stalk rot (ASR), an important disease in maize (Zea mays L.). This pathogen colonizes and degrades the vascular tissues of the stalk, resulting in premature plant death and significant yield losses. Genetic control of resistance is determined by a few genes, with additive effects being the predominant mode of inheritance. This study examined the expression of genes related with maize defense against C. graminicola, using contrasting inbred lines for resistance to ASR in tropical germplasm, through reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Gene expression analysis was conducted on eight occasions post-inoculation for eight genes involved in the defense response, including those encoding pathogenesis-related proteins, secondary metabolites, and phytohormones. We observed difference in the expression of defense genes between the resistant (L04-2) and susceptible (L99-4) lines. L04-2 line exhibited a rapid and intense defense response, characterized by the early induction and sustained expression of defense genes. Results indicate that the resistance of L04-2 is primarily associated with the early and significant induction of the LOX5 gene, which encodes for lipoxygenases, enzymes that catalyze the oxygenation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, leading to the formation of oxylipins. These molecules regulate the biosynthesis of jasmonic acid, a phytohormone that is directly involved in the activation of various defense genes. The scientific findings can help in the development of maize cultivars with higher resistance to ASR.

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ABSTRACT Enhancing wheat’s ability to withstand waterlogging stress is critical for improving productivity. Transcription factors, particularly the NF-Y family, play key roles in plant growth, development, and abiotic stress responses. The NF-Y family in plants is composed of three subunits: NF-YA, NF-YB, and NF-YC, which are involved in regulating growth and stress adaptation. In wheat, several NF-Y genes have been identified for their roles in stress response, though their expression patterns under waterlogging stress remain unclear. In this study, RNA-Seq data (PRJNA943453) were analyzed to investigate the expression of TaNF-YA, TaNF-YB, and TaNF-YC genes in waterlogged wheat roots. Results revealed that a subset of TaNF-Y genes, including TaNF-YB2, TaNF-YB3, TaNF-YB5, TaNF-YB11, and TaNF-YC7 were significantly up-regulated in response to waterlogging. These findings suggested that TaNF-Y transcription factors play an important role in wheat’s adaptation to waterlogging stress. The upregulation of these genes under waterlogging conditions indicates their potential for enhancing wheat’s tolerance to transient low oxygen environments. This study provides valuable insights into the role of TaNF-Y genes in stress response, offering potential strategies for improving wheat resilience under waterlogging conditions.

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ABSTRACT Climatic variation between grape-producing regions exposes plants to different environmental conditions capable of influencing their phenology. In this scenario, studies on the climatic potential of growing areas, as well as the phenology and thermal needs of vine cultivars in different growing seasons, are important tools for implementing new orchards. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the climatic potential, phenology, and thermal needs of vines cultivated at different times in the semi-arid region of Piauí, Brazil. The experiment was conducted in a trellis system, spaced 3 × 1.5 m, during four growing seasons (2020-2021). The thermal conditions available in the region were expressed in degree days (DD) correlated with the phenological assessments, considering the basal temperature 10°C. Plant phenology was evaluated, regarding the duration of the phenological stages, according to the BBCH scale. The average phenological cycle of the cultivars was 2,133.33 (120 days) and 2,141.02 DD (128 days) for ‘BRS Magna’ and ‘BRS Violeta’, respectively. The cultivars studied produced bunches with morphological parameters suitable for commercialization, with emphasis on ‘BRS Magna’, which presented the largest number and length of bunches. From the results obtained, we concluded that the Bom Jesus region, Piauí, has climatic potential for vine cultivation. The vine’s growth potential is greater in times of warmer weather, requiring lower thermal sums to complete the growth cycle. ‘BRS Magna’ proved to be the most promising cultivation method in the region.

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ABSTRACT Producing grapes for juice has been gaining prominence in the Northeast region of Brazil with diversification of grape cultivars for juice production over the past decade. The aim of this study was to estimate the effect of different vine training systems and rootstocks on the vigor, yield, and morpho-agronomic traits of ‘BRS Cora’ grapes over six production cycles. The experiment was conducted in Petrolina, PE, Brazil, from 2017 to 2020. A randomized block experimental design was used with four replications in split-split plots in time, with evaluation of the espalier, pergola, and lyre training systems combined with the rootstocks IAC 572 and IAC 766. The variables studied were the following: bud fertility index; yield per plant; number of clusters per plant; weight, width and length of cluster and berry; soluble solids (SS); titratable acidity (TA); and ratio SS/TA. The response of the ‘BRS Cora’ vines were different depending on the training system, rootstock, production cycle, or interaction among them. The bud fertility index varied only as a result of the production cycle. The pergola training system increased yield in relation to espalier and lyre systems, also favoring a larger number and size of clusters. The IAC 766 rootstock increased berry size and TA, whereas IAC 572 favored higher sugar/SS content and SS/TA ratio. The fourth production cycle (harvest on 9 May 2019) led to the best agronomic performance of ‘BRS Cora’ grapevines under the conditions of the Submédio do Vale do São Francisco region.

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ABSTRACT The rootstock Poncirus trifoliata var. monstrosa flying dragon (FD) induces dwarfism to citrus trees. Dwarfism provides several positive aspects: allows dense planting, reduces the pruning frequency, improves productivity efficiency, and makes cultural practices easier. Evaluating the compatibility of the rootstock with different scion varieties is crucial for recommending this rootstock and requires many years of field observations. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the vigor and graft compatibility of Citrus × sinensis L. Osbeck and Citrus × latifolia Tanaka grafted onto FD. The experimental was a randomized block design, with five treatments, four replications, and each plot consisting of one tree. The cultivar Tahiti acid lime IAC-5 and Seleta, Lima, Bahia, and Folha Murcha oranges were the evaluated plants. Biometric measurements of canopy and graft incompatibility were assessed, and viables spacing were estimated. No signs of incompatibility were observed in any graft combination. After 12.5 years, FD induced dwarfism in all evaluated cultivars, but not to Tahiti acid lime. In the edaphoclimatic conditions of North Fluminense, we suggest planting densities of 511, 1,387, 1,486, 792 and 1,644 plants.ha-1 to Tahiti, Seleta, Lima, Bahia, and Folha Murcha oranges trees, respectively, when these are grafted onto the FD.

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ABSTRACT ‘BRS Vitória’ is the leading seedless table grape cultivar in tropical regions of Brazil, but there is a lack of information regarding suitable rootstocks for subtropical cultivation. This study aimed to evaluate the productive performance and nutrient cycling of ‘BRS Vitória’ grapevines grafted onto rootstocks ‘IAC 572’, ‘IAC 766’, and ‘1103P’ under subtropical climate conditions. Crop yield, nutrient content, and weight of shoots and bunches were assessed over two growing seasons, along with nutrient removal via pruning and harvest and nutrient utilization efficiency. The ‘IAC 572’ rootstock promoted greater shoot biomass accumulation and crop yield compared to ‘IAC 766’ and ‘1103P’. Both nutrient content and nutrient accumulation were also higher in grapevines grafted onto the ‘IAC 572’ rootstock. Nevertheless, the amount of nutrients transported to the bunch was comparatively lower than in ‘IAC 766’ and ‘1103P’. Given its superior productivity, nutrient accumulation capacity, and nutrient utilization efficiency, the ‘IAC 572’ rootstock is more suitable for ‘BRS Vitória’ grapevines in subtropical regions.

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ABSTRACT The Pera sweet orange tree is the most cultivated scion variety in Brazil, mainly grafted onto Rangpur lime rootstock. Despite its drought tolerance, Rangpur lime is susceptible to various citrus diseases. More recently, trifoliate orange and its hybrids have been used as alternative rootstocks, but most genotypes are graft-incompatible with Pera. In this study, we assessed the long-term performance of Pera IAC sweet orange, which is a pre-immunized clone against citrus tristeza virus, grafted onto 11 trifoliate orange-derived rootstocks, one somatic hybrid and the standard Rangpur lime. The experiment was installed in Bebedouro, SP, Brazil, in February 2011, in a rainfed regime. The design was completely randomized with 13 treatments, 10 replications and one tree in the plot. Changsha × English Large (IAC 1711) citrandarin rootstock conjugated the tallest trees, high cumulative yield, and good drought tolerance up to 2020, followed by Rangpur lime and tetraploid citranges. The Flying Dragon trifoliate orange and tetraploid Carrizo citrange (IAC 387) rootstocks induced the highest content of soluble solids and acidity in Pera oranges. At 9 years old, four citrandarins, a citradia and one somatic hybrid rootstocks were graft-incompatible with Pera IAC sweet orange. All scion/rootstocks’ combinations were affected by huanglongbing. The IAC 1711 citrandarin, tetraploids Troyer (IAC 385) and Carrizo (IAC 387) citranges and Flying Dragon trifoliate orange have potential as graft-compatible rootstocks of Pera IAC, but evaluations should continue in the long term. In addition, the later rootstock must be evaluated in irrigated high-density orchards aiming at competitive yields.

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ABSTRACT Red cabbage microgreens, with high nutraceutical value and peculiar sensory characteristics, has been one of the most studied microgreens for cultivation in plant factories, especially under red and blue light irradiance. However, under white light, it is necessary to know the effect of sowing density on their physiology, yield, and quality, which is the objective of the present study. Five sowing densities (60, 120, 180, 240, and 300 g·m–2) were evaluated in an indoor environment under photosynthetic photon flux density of 250 μmol·m–2·s–1 of white light + 20 μmol·m–2·s–1 of red light, and photoperiod of 20 h. Increase in sowing density caused greater competition among seedlings, which increased hypocotyl length and reduced cotyledon area and shoot dry mass of the microgreens. However, the perceived decreases in the individual plant mass were offset by an increase in the number of plants, which resulted in higher yields as sowing density increased. Efficiency of photosystem II, initial fluorescence, and maximum fluorescence were not influenced by sowing density. As for the quality of microgreens, increasing the sowing density resulted in an effect contrary to that observed for yield and reduced contents of calcium, iron, pigments, and ascorbic acid.

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ABSTRACT Sesame plants are highly resistant. However, mechanical damage from hail, pest, and disease attacks, or machinery traffic, can cause a loss in leaf area, characterizing defoliation. In intensified production systems, where leaf area reduction may occur, the effects of defoliation are known for different crop species. For sesame, there are no studies on the response of these plants to defoliation in initial development stages. Thus, the objective of this research was to analyze the growth, photosynthetic efficiency (chlorophyll a fluorescence), root morphology, and grain yield of sesame subjected to defoliation. The experiment was carried out in 20-L pots, and the plants were subjected to two treatments: control (without defoliation) and defoliation. Defoliation was imposed 22 days after sowing. Plant height, stem diameter, and chlorophyll fluorescence were evaluated throughout the plant development. At physiological maturity, root morphology, and yield components were evaluated. Sesame plants under defoliation showed rapid recovery in diameter and height (34 and 50 days after defoliation, respectively). Although leaf area was reduced by defoliation, there were no changes in photosynthetic efficiency between treatments. The damage caused by defoliation caused an increase in root length and surface area and favored the increase in very thin and thin roots. Sesame plants subjected to defoliation resulted in shoot dry mass, grain yield, and harvest index similar to plants without mechanical damage. Early defoliation does not cause damage to sesame under the study conditions, generating possibilities for the future use of this crop in intensified production systems with this type of stress.

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ABSTRACT The cycle inversion technique enhances the maturation and health of grapes by shifting the harvest to months with milder temperatures and lower precipitation. This study aimed to characterize the ‘Cabernet Franc’ and ‘Malbec’, managed using this technique in São Roque, São Paulo, Brazil, focusing on productive parameters, the relationship between vegetative growth and fruit yield, and the evolution of technological and phenolic maturation of the berries. The experiment was conducted in a non-irrigated commercial vineyard, using a vertical trellis system and trained with bilateral spur cordon, over the 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 growing seasons. The results indicated that ‘Cabernet Franc’ produced an average yield of 1.71 kg per plant, with looser clusters averaging 64.2 g. On the other hand, ‘Malbec’ yielded an average of 3.12 kg per plant, with denser and heavier clusters averaging 114.3 g. Both cultivars exhibited a Ravaz index (RI) below the recommended threshold, with values of 1.9 for ‘Cabernet Franc’ and 3.6 for ‘Malbec’. Technological maturation followed a similar progression for both cultivars, with only minor differences. Total soluble solids accumulated to levels above 21 °Brix, and total acidity remained below the 5-6 g·L-1 range. Phenolic maturation, particularly in total polyphenols (TP) and total anthocyanins (TA), demonstrated a consistent accumulation trend throughout the maturation process. The ‘Cabernet Fran’ averaged 415.28 mgGAE·100 g-1 for TP and 279.67 mg·100 g-1 for TA, while the ‘Malbec’ showed significantly higher levels of 1,371.06 mgGAE·100 g-1 for TP and 726.18 mg·100 g-1 for TA.

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ABSTRACT Agronomic biofortification, a promising solution for enriching foods with micronutrients, e.g., selenium, holds great potential for improving human health. This study focused on the potential of edible parts of nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus L.) for biofortification with selenium, offering an optimistic outlook for the nutritional value of this non-conventional food. The treatments consisted of increasing concentrations of selenium (0, 2, 4, 8, and 16 μmol·L-1) applied through nutrient solutions in a semi-hydroponic system. Firstly, seeds germinated in a commercial substrate for seedling production. After selection for vigor, seedlings were standardized and grouped into morphological types. The analysis of the interaction between selenium concentrations and different morphological types revealed a significant effect on plant height but not on the parameters of leaf number and diameter. High selenium concentrations compromise plant growth, suggesting toxic effects manifested by developmental inhibition. Selenium exposure adversely affected floral production, with control plants exhibiting greater prolificacy. Floral diameter varied depending on both morphotype and selenium concentration. These results underscore the importance of calibrating selenium dosage to optimize its beneficial effects and mitigate toxicity in nasturtium, highlighting the differential response of the examined foliar and floral morphometric characteristics to selenium concentration. Furthermore, the results of this study may address the use of selenium as a micronutrient for plants and its relevance to biofortification, given its essential role in human health.

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ABSTRACT Olive oil has excellent chemical and nutraceutical properties. In the tropics, there are not climatic conditions for the large-scale production of oil. An alternative option is the production of avocado oil, which has properties similar to those of olive oil. The ‘Hass’ and ‘Fuerte’ avocado are the most used for oil extraction. As the climate affects the chemical characteristics of the fruit, it is possible that other cultivars may also produce quality oil. This study aimed to evaluate the productive performance and oil quality of different avocado cultivars in a high-altitude subtropical region. In two cycles, the productive performances of the cultivars ‘Breda’, ‘Fortuna’, ‘Margarida’, and ‘Quintal’, at 5 and 6 years old, were evaluated. In the second production cycle, the longitudinal and transverse diameters of the fruits and the percentage of pulp, peel, and core in relation to the total mass of the fruits, in addition to the percentage of moisture in the pulp, dry mass, and oil (total lipids), were determined. The acidity level, peroxide index, specific extinction in the ultraviolet spectrum, and the composition of fatty acids were determined from the oil extracted. The cultivars showed good productive performance in the high-altitude subtropical region. ‘Fortuna’ and ‘Margarida’ were the most productive ones. The ‘Breda’, ‘Fortuna’, and ‘Quintal’ avocado oils had the highest proportions of oleic acid, and the ‘Margarida’ oil had a higher proportion of palmitic linoleic acid. The percentages of oleic acid in the oils of the four cultivars studied, originating from a high-altitude subtropical region, were high.

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ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two semi-mechanized pruning systems and a tree thinning method on the quality of pecan fruit grown in a mature pecan orchard at high density. The experiment was carried out in a commercial pecan orchard composed of ‘Pitol 1’ trees at the density of 204 trees per hectare. A completely randomized block design with four treatments—hedge pruning, central pruning, tree thinning, and control (neither pruning nor thinning)—was used. Variables under evaluation were fruit per kilo, fruit mass, kernel mass, shell mass, percent kernel, fruit length, kernel length, fruit diameter, kernel diameter, classification of fruit size, shell thickness, kernel color, kernel lightness (L*), and commercial kernels. Pruning and thinning treatments significantly increased pecan quality by increasing fruit and kernel size and weight. Hedge and central pruning decreased the number of fruits per kilogram by 14 and 15, respectively, while thinning reduced it by 23, by comparison with the control. Moreover, the treatments under study led to a high ratio of extra-large and oversize pecans. Semi-mechanized pruning and tree thinning are cultural practices which improve fruit quality by increasing pecan size and weight in 10–15-year-old ‘Pitol 1’ trees grown with no irrigation.

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ABSTRACT The vicinity of natural areas can enhance availability of pollinators and crop productivity. Considering the global reduction of pollinators and the global food insecurity, innovative strategies to enhance pollination and crop yield are important. Thus, we investigated the efficacy of using colored attractors of pollinators to improve okra yield. The use of pollinator attractors led to a significant increase in the length, volume, and weight of okra in comparison to plants without attractors, and notably larger when compared to plants without pollinator access. Although uncertainties remain regarding scalability and optimal implementation, our results emphasized the opportunity of the colored attractors, a low-cost intervention, to boost food productivity and alleviate food insecurity.

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ABSTRACT Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the most economically important crops in the world, with its consumption increasing annually due to its multiple uses. This increases phytosanitary problems considerably, such as the presence of pathogens like Alternaria linariae, responsible for the disease known as early blight, one of the most aggressive in this crop, resulting in the excessive consumption of fungicides. In recent years, the use of preparations with non-pathogenic fungi among other chemical products as elicitors has become an important control strategy to induce plant resistance. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the action of fungal biomass filtrates in inducing resistance in tomato plants grown in a greenhouse and inoculated with A. linariae. The treatments were: control; inoculated control; biomass filtrates of Ganoderma lucidum 20%; Pleurotus ostreatus 20%; and Trichoderma asperellum 20%. Ganoderma lucidum filtrate stood out among all treatments, demonstrating potential for inducing resistance in tomato plants by activating the enzymes superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase, components of the plant’s antioxidant system, avoiding lipid peroxidation. Such induction is related to the association between elicitors and the activation time of these routes. Further research is needed to identify the specific bioactive compounds present in fungal filtrates responsible for resistance induction and to elucidate their modes of action.

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ABSTRACT Phosphorus (P) is a limiting nutrient for coffee seedlings. To meet this requirement, coffee growers usually apply di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), which is highly sensitive to local price fluctuations. The use of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and phosphate-solubilizing fungi (PSF) has been recommended, but the results derived from their application are inconsistent and uncertain, depending on soil fertility status. The response of AMF and PSF application in the plant growth of coffee seedlings during the nursery stage was evaluated in four non-sterile soils, which represent the most abundant type of soils in the coffee regions of Colombia: Eutropept, Dystropept, Fulvudand, and Ultisol. The treatments included a commercial AMF inoculum, PSF-Phlebia subserialis-CH4, and a consortium of AMF+PSF, at four P levels (0, 0.5, 1, and 2 g.plant-1 P2O5) using DAP fertilizer. Shoot dry weight (SDW) was affected by P applications in Fulvudand. In the other soils, a P-response occurred with 0.5 g.plant-1 , whereas 1 and 2 g.plant-1 of P2O5 caused a significant reduction in SDW. AMF increased SDW by 40% in Eutropept. The negative effect of higher P amounts was mitigated (> 70%) through PSF and AMF+PSF in Ultisol and Eutropept, respectively. In plants in which microorganisms increased SDW, the P concentration was 0.17 to 0.22%. The plant growth promotion of coffee seedlings during the nursery stage with AMF and/or PSF applications varied according to soil type and P amounts applied.

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ABSTRACT The production of high-quality wheat seeds in soils with low soil organic matter (SOM) content requires the use of nitrogen (N) fertilization techniques, since different types of N fertilizers have different impacts on crop uptake and development. The present study aimed to evaluate the quality of wheat seeds from modern cultivars, grown in soils with low SOM content, under different ammoniacal and nitric N fertilization rates in Southern Brazil. Seeds were produced in three locations (Capão do Leão, Pelotas and Rio Grande, RS, Brazil), during two crop seasons (2021/22 and 2022/23), under N rates of 0, 40, 80, 120, and 160 kg·ha-1 of N, supplied with urea (46% N) and ammonium nitrate (AN) (27% N). Germination test, dry weight and length of aerial part and root of seedlings, accelerated aging test (AAT), emergence in seedbed, and electrical conductivity (EC) of seeds were evaluated. It was observed that seed germination presented acceptable values, with rates of viable seeds varying from 86 to 99%, except location 3, which presented values below 80% germination at the rate of 160 kg·ha-1 of N. A reduction in seed vigor was observed with the use of AN. Increasing N rates reduced germination in AAT and increased seed EC. EC has a negative correlation with all parameters indicating good physiological seed quality. It was concluded that excessive rates of N negatively impact the physiological potential of wheat seeds grown in soils with low SOM contents.

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ABSTRACT Improper soil management for the development of important crops worldwide can jeopardize carbon (C) storage and soil organic matter (SOM) health. It was postulated that the application of vinasse to sugarcane soil under the control of agricultural machinery could increase C stocks and improve aggregate stability index, soil porosity and density, thus ensuring better root penetration. Therefore, in this study, the management system of sugarcane based on rainfed with vinasse application (RV), irrigated (I) and irrigated with vinasse application (IV) was studied in a tropical environment to determine the C stocks and the physical and chemical properties of the soil. The experimental design was randomized blocks with five replicates, and the organic C contents and stocks, soil density, total porosity, soil resistance to root penetration, and aggregate stability index (ASI) of sugarcane within rows and between rows were analyzed at 0–10- and 10–20- cm depth. The RV and IV treatments promoted the same potassium concentrations in the row and between the rows of sugarcane cultivation. The IV exhibited the highest soil ASI (74% at 0–10- and 77% at 10–20-cm depth) and stored approximately 70% more carbon than the I management. The use of sugarcane vinasse preserved the physical conditions of the soil, particularly in the inter-row area, by reducing surface layer compaction and increasing soil moisture and porosity, thereby representing a more sustainable long-term management system.

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ABSTRACT Excessive use of inorganic fertilizers to achieve high yields degrades the soil’s chemical, physical, and biological quality. An alternative method to mitigate these negative impacts is the application of rhizobacteria as a biofertilizer. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of 15 rhizobacteria isolates as biofertilizers and the effectiveness of a consortium of rhizobacteria in improving yield and nutrient use efficiency (NUE), and reducing fertilizer use on maize by comparing a Control Fertilizer (CF) rate 180 N + 45 P2O5+50 K2O kg·ha–1 and with a Recommended Fertilizer (RF) rate 180N+90P2O5+100K2O kg·ha–1. We used a consortium of seven rhizobacteria with distinct beneficial properties (isolates excelled in nitrogen fixation, solubilization, and IAA/GA3) as a biofertilizer, namely isolate B3 (Bacillus cereus IAM12605), Cs1 (Serratia marcescens subsp. KRED), Cs2 (Pseudomonas stutzeri NCTC10450), Mu1 (P. stutzeri CCUG11256), M1 (Bacillus proteolyticus MCCC1A00365), M3 (B. cereus IAM 12605) and G2 (Bacillus albus MCCC1A02146). The results showed that inoculation with a consortium of rhizobacteria was more effective than using a single isolate. The CsCs2M3+CF and Cs1Cs2G2+CF consortia yielded 9.85 and 10.02 t·ha–1, respectively. Meanwhile, CF and RF yielded 8.21 and 8.95 t·ha–1, respectively. In addition, the application of this consortium increased NUE yields by 9.11–10.06 kg·kg-1 N, 83.43–92.07 kg·kg-1 P, and 39.52–43.61 ·kg-1 K, and could reduce the use of P and K fertilizers by 50%.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Boron (B) is an important micronutrient for plant root growth and development. However, its benefits for cassava crops remain unknown. We evaluated the effects of B topdressing fertilization on the root yield, biomass, and B accumulation and distribution in five sweet cassava cultivars grown in sandy soil. A randomized block design in a 5 × 3 factorial scheme with four replicates was used. The treatments included five sweet cassava cultivars (IAC 576-70, BRS 396, BRS 399, Palito, and Precoce) and three B rates (0, 1, and 2 kg·ha-1). BRS 399 and Precoce maintained stable biomass regardless of B application. IAC 576-70 increased whole plant and storage root biomass with 2 kg·ha-1 B, while the biomass of Palito decreased at this rate. Application of 1 kg·ha-1 B improved storage root biomass of the BRS 396 cultivar. BRS 399 cultivar responded positively to topdressing B fertilization; Precoce was unaffected; and 2 kg·ha-1 B was excessive in the Palito cultivar. B fertilization increased B uptake only in the Palito and IAC 576-70 cultivars, and B removal was the highest in the BRS 399 and Palito cultivars. Therefore, for soils with limited B availability, it is recommended to fertilize Palito and BRS 396 cultivars with a maximum of 1 kg·ha-1 B, and IAC 576-70 and BRS 399 cultivars with 2 kg·ha-1 B. These findings emphasize the need for cultivar-specific B fertilization to optimize cassava root production.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Properly managed intercropping systems with green manuring and component crop population densities can promote gains in crop productivity and benefits that extend to the post-harvest quality of their products. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the post-harvest quality of the beet-cowpea intercropping at different equitable amounts of hairy woodrose (Merremia aegyptia) and roostertree (Calotropis procera) biomass in the doses of 20, 36, 52, and 68 t·ha-1, on a dry basis, and at cowpea densities of 80, 120, 160, and 200 thousand plants·ha-1, in two crops in a semiarid environment. The cultivars planted were beet ‘Early Wonder’ and cowpea ‘BRS Tumucumaque’. The highest values of the beet post-harvest indices for pH (6.41), soluble solids (10.07 ºBrix) and titratable acidity (0.14% citric acid), respectively, were achieved in the combinations of equitable amounts of M. aegyptia and C. procera biomass of 68 t·ha-1 added to the soil at population densities of 145, 110 and 200 thousand cowpea plants·ha-1, while the highest values for total soluble solids (7.32%) and betalain (55.90 mg 100 g-1), respectively, were achieved in the combinations of equitable biomass amounts of the green manures of 68.00 and 47.90 t·ha-1 added to the soil at the population density of 200,000 cowpea plants per hectare. The highest contents of bioactive compounds in immature cowpea grains were reached at the maximum cowpea population density (200,000 plants·ha-1) and at the highest biomass amount of the green manures, hairy woodrose and roostertree, of 68 t·ha-1.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The Kratky method of non-circulating hydroponics is little studied in Brazil. Our objective was to test this method to produce lettuce grown under different electrical conductivities (EC) of the nutrient solution during both winter and summer seasons. There were four EC, which comprised four treatments (0.6, 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 mS·cm-1) and 13 replications, totaling 52 plants. Throughout the experiments, maximum and minimum air temperature and humidity were monitored, as well as solution pH, EC, and temperature. After 45 days of transplanting in winter and 31 days in summer, lettuce was harvested, and agronomic variables of the aerial part and roots were measured. Data collected was subjected to polynomial regression analysis that the related variables measured to the EC evaluated according to the growing season. For winter, ideal EC ranged between 2.3 and 2.6 mS·cm-1 and, for summer, from 2.8 to 3.3 mS·cm-1. The non-circulating hydroponic cultivation system Kratky method is suitable for lettuce ‘Crespa Itapuã 401 Super’ production during both winter and summer seasons.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Improving soil moisture management can result in higher crop yields and water productivity by enhancing the benefits of organic and inorganic components found in sewage sludge. The study aimed to improve soil and crop fertility by testing different irrigation strategies with varying amounts of stabilized sewage sludge (0, 30, 60, and 90 t·ha-1 in SS0, SS1, SS2, and SS3, respectively) under reduced tillage to enhance the water productivity of silage maize. Soil moisture was adjusted to field capacity when the total estimated evapotranspiration minus effective precipitation reached 25, 50, and 75 mm in irrigation strategies W1, W2, and W3, respectively. Results from two years with three replicates showed that organic matter, macronutrients, and exchangeable cations increased significantly with higher doses of sewage sludge, while pH decreased and salinity remained low. Frequent irrigation increased organic matter mineralization, enhancing plant nitrogen uptake and improving soil fertility. This resulted in improved crop nutrient contents, chlorophyll, stomatal conductance, leaf water content, and membrane damage index. The SS3-W1 treatment produced the highest fresh biomass at 130.5 mg·ha-1, a 37.5% increase over SS0-W1, mainly due to increased leaf and stem growth. SS3-W1 also showed the highest water and irrigation water productivity at 30.3 and 40.3 kg·m-3, respectively, a 37.1% improvement over SS0-W1. The study indicates that higher water productivity can be achieved in frequently irrigated silage maize by increasing sewage sludge dose.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Kiwi orchards can be established on acidic soils with low nutrient availability, requiring amendments and fertilizers to meet the plant’s nutritional requirements. However, nutritional information requirements of the crop are scarce, which can support fertilizer recommendations. This study aimed to establish critical levels (CL), soil fertility classes (FC), and leaf sufficiency ranges (SR) of nutrients for kiwi cultivation in Southern Brazil. Diagnostic standards from commercial orchards were established using a database (fruit yield, nutrient levels in soil, and leaves). To establish CL, FC, and SR, the fruit yield was related to nutrient levels, and models were established using the boundary line (BL) method and Bayesian quantile regression models. The FC for soil available P and K levels were 30–37 and 127–135 mg·dm-3, respectively, while exchangeable Ca and Mg were 10–14 cmolc·dm-3 and 3.5–5.0 cmolc·dm-3, and V was 82–88%. In leaf tissue, the SR for N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and S were 27–31, 1.6–2.2, 18–22, 22–25, 4.2–7.5, and 2.1–4.2 g·kg-1, respectively. For micronutrients, the SR were 57–65 mg·kg-1 for Cu, 247–255 mg·kg-1 for Fe, 95–102 mg·kg-1 for Mn, 20–25 mg·kg-1 for Zn, and 10–13 mg·kg-1 for B. The diagnostic standards for soil fertility and plant nutritional status obtained in this study can be used by kiwi growers to increase fruit yield.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT A sustainable future requires efficient water use in irrigated agriculture to ensure food and water security. The crop water stress index (CWSI) is a remote sensing tool that can help achieve this goal. In typical CWSI experiments, infrared sensors focus on the canopy to measure its temperature. This study evaluated this methodology for crop beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with low canopy coverage. In this scenario, the temperature measurement is significantly affected by the presence of straw mulch. The study also proposed a procedure that uses supplementary data to estimate canopy coverage and straw mulch temperature. Then, the canopy temperature is finally estimated from the infrared sensor measurement. The procedure was successfully implemented for low canopy coverages. Without it, the baseline slope was inconsistent with the CWSI theory. This was particularly true during the earlier phenological stages. The lowest observed canopy coverage was 0.17 for the baseline and 0.26 when estimating the CWSI. The CWSI showed a clear relationship with soil water content.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The Agronomic Institute of Campinas, located in São Paulo, Brazil, is one of the country’s pioneering research centers. Since 1890, the institute has maintained daily records of air temperature and precipitation, resulting in one of the longest continuous meteorological series in South America. Based on the hypothesis that 135 years of uninterrupted meteorological data provide valuable insights into the climate evolution of this tropical region, this study aimed to detect and describe signs of climate change in the dataset and make it publicly accessible. To achieve these goals, we applied rigorous data quality assessment methods to ensure the reliability of the records, followed by parametric and nonparametric trend analyses on various climate change indices. The dataset was validated, with only a few errors identified and corrected. Trend analyses revealed a shift toward warmer conditions, while precipitation patterns showed no significant changes. However, rising air temperatures led to increased atmospheric water demand, resulting in a significant decrease in the difference between precipitation and potential evapotranspiration. This trend strongly suggests intensified regional drought conditions, linked to an extended dry season, which may elevate the risk of crop yield reductions due to heat and water stress. The complete historical dataset is now publicly available at https://rpubs.com/gabrielblain/1265900 and https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14747078, along with the statistical methods and tools for downloading the records.