Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias UNCuyo
La Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias de la Universidad Nacional del Cuyo publica artículos originales e inéditos, escritos en inglés, cuya temática está relacionada con la ingenieria agronómica, ciencias de los alimentos y los recursos naturales renovables. El material que se publica pertenece tanto a investigadores de la propia institución así como de otras facultades y centros de investigación del país y del extranjero. La inserción de los artículos está sometida a las normas internacionales vigentes, con referato por parte de especialistas en cada disciplina. La Revista adhiere a la definición de "acceso abierto" de la Budapest Open Access Initiative (BOAI): http://www.soros.org/openaccess/ Institución editorial: Universidad Nacional de Cuyo | Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias | Centro de ediciones Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias. Periodicidad: semestral. Se publican dos tomos por año (junio y diciembre). Inicio de actividades: 9 de junio de 1949 ISSN en línea: 1853-8665
Aquellos autores/as que tengan publicaciones con esta revista, aceptan las Políticas Editoriales.
Essential Oils and Extracts from Argentinian Northwest Plants as Potential Biofungicides for Olive and Grapevine Pathogens: in vitro Studies
This work studies the effect of 12 botanical products from Argentinian northwest plants on spores and mycelium of Verticillium dahliae and Phaeoacremonium parasiticum, two pathogens of agronomic importance for the region. The fungi were exposed to essential oils (EOs) or ethanolic extracts (EEs), determining the percentage of germinated spores and mycelial growth. All tested EOs and EEs showed varying degrees of antifungal activity, dependent on plant species, extract type, pathogen, and targeted fungal structures. V. dahliae germination was completely inhibited by Zuccagnia punctata and Clinopodium gilliesii EOs. In experiments with EEs, Z. punctata EE was the most effective in suppressing spore germination of both fungi. The C. gilliesii EE also controlled V. dahliae germination. The EEs of Z. punctata, C. gilliesii and Lippia turbinata were the most active against mycelial growth. These three EEs had a fungistatic effect on P. parasiticum while Z. punctata and L. turbinata EEs showed a fungicidal effect on V. dahliae. The products obtained from Z. punctata, C. gilliesii and L. turbinata have potential as biocontrollers against V. dahliae and P. parasiticum. This is encouraging since no effective treatments are available for the diseases involving these pathogens. Highlights: Antifungal activity of plant-derived products varied depending on plant species, extract type, pathogen, and targeted fungal structures. Ethanolic extracts (EEs) showed higher antifungal activity than Essential oils (EOs). V. dahliae was more sensitive to plant product activity than P. parasiticum. The studied botanical products offer promising eco-friendly alternatives for integrated disease management in regional crops.
Derechos de autor 2018 Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias UNCuyo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/deed.es
Fungicide Management of Late Leaf Spot and Peanut Smut
Late leaf spot (LLS), caused by Nothopassalora personata, is the most devastating peanut disease in the world. In Argentina, peanut smut (Thecaphora frezii) has increased significantly in recent decades. LLS is mainly managed through chemical fungicides, however, peanut smut is not effectively controlled, except for some resistant peanut genotypes. This study evaluated the effects of widely used fungicides for LLS control on both diseases and crop yield. Field trials were conducted over three consecutive years in two locations, with different fungicide doses and number of applications. Disease intensities were significantly higher in General Cabrera (GC) than in Vicuña Mackenna (VM) resulting in higher yields in VM. This could be due to the longer history of peanut cultivation in GC, where fungicide applications reduced LLS intensity. Among fungicides, chlorothalonil showed the best performance. However, these treatments were ineffective against peanut smut, likely due to difficulties reaching the infection site. Considering fungicides are one major management tool, further study of different active ingredients against both diseases should also consider sustainable integrated management. Highlights: The intensity of late leaf spot and peanut smut was strongly associated with location. The use of chemical treatments proved effective in controlling late leaf spot. Peanut smut was not managed thought fungicides. It is possible to manage peanut late leaf spot using fungicides with a lower environmental impact.
Temporal Analysis of Northern Corn Leaf Blight (Exserohilum turcicum Pass. Leonard & Suggs) Epidemics
Field trials were conducted in six locations in central-northern Córdoba, Argentina, using four maize hybrids with varying resistance to northern corn leaf blight (NCLB), caused by Exserohilum turcicum. Naturally occurring NCLB epidemics were evaluated. We analyzed disease severity (S%), disease progress curve (DPC), area under the disease progress curve, final severity (FS%) and apparent infection rate (r). Disease progress curves were simultaneously analyzed by fitting nonlinear epidemiological models (Gompertz and Logistic). Ballesteros and Villa María were the localities with the highest FS in susceptible hybrids (45% and 37.5%, respectively). Levels of FS were below 5% in Jesús María, Río Segundo and Freyre, and under 1% in El Tío. The highest AUDPC values were also observed in Ballesteros and Villa María (2150.1 and 1335.7, respectively). In the other locations, AUDPC values remained under 320, with statistically significant differences in all cases (p< 0.05). The resistant hybrid exhibited the lowest apparent infection rate compared to the other genotypes. Epidemic progress displayed, to varying degrees, sigmoid-shaped curves characteristic polycyclic diseases. On average, the Gompertz model best fitted disease progress data across all evaluated genotypes with an R² of 0.909 and an adjusted coefficient (R2*) of 0.849. The temporal analysis provided key epidemiological insights into the maize-NCLB pathosystem, supporting the development of effective management strategies. Highlights: Temporal analysis differentiated maize hybrids by resistance levels to NCLB. Gompertz model provided the best fit for NCLB epidemics. Final severity, AUDPC, and infection rates confirmed differences in hybrid resistance to NCLB. Understanding NCLB temporal dynamics supports the development of hybrid selection and integrated management strategies. Epidemiological tools enhance disease progress prediction and optimize NCLB control timing.
First Report of the Black Soybean Weevil Rhyssomatus subtilis Fiedler (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in Córdoba, Argentina. Crop Damage Estimation
The black soybean weevil is an endemic pest in northwestern and northeastern Argentina, causing significant damage. The objective of this study was to confirm the presence of this species in Córdoba, describe symptomatology and evaluate the potential impact on the crop. Surveys were conducted in plots located in the north-central part of the province. Individuals were collected and a quantitative assessment of symptoms and damage was conducted. Twenty compound samples were taken from sectors showing different physiological appearances (green vs. yellowish). In each group, total pod number and damaged pod number allowed calculating damage percentage. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Fisher's test (α = 0.05). All collected individuals matched the morphological descriptions reported in the literature for the species Rhyssomatus subtilis Fiedler. Green plants had a higher proportion of damaged pods (0.89) and fewer pods (31.85) compared to yellowish plants (0.53 and 46.65, respectively). This relationship suggests a direct effect on biomass partitioning. Our finding remaps the pest’s distribution range, warning areas of high agricultural production in Córdoba and raising the need to link public-private actions to minimize its spread. Highlights: First record of Rhyssomatus subtilis in soybean fields in Córdoba Province, Argentina. The black soybean weevil was detected in five sites in the central-northern region, where no previous records existed. Detection was triggered by reports of pod damage. Identification was based on characteristic injury and the collection of larvae and adults, confirmed with expert input and literature. Damage assessment revealed physiological differences in affected plants. Severely damaged plants showed delayed senescence and symptoms consistent with green stem disorder. Pod injury by subtilis significantly reduced pod set. Statistical analysis showed marked differences in the number of pods between high- and low-damage areas.
Isolation of Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA)-Producing Azotobacter spp. from Crop Rhizospheres Located in Lima, Peru
PHAs are polyesters found as internal granules in several microorganisms. Azotobacter is known for its ability to produce PHA. This study aimed to isolate Azotobacter from the rhizosphere of selected crops located in Lima and evaluate their PHA-producing potential. Nile Red medium was used for PHA detection, and Sudan Black B staining allowed microscopic observation. Biopolymer production and quantification were carried out in Burk’s medium, PHA minimal medium (PHAMM), and modified PHAMM. In Nile Red medium, 68.2% of strains produced PHA, with Azotobacter AzoLur20 exhibiting the highest production, 2.1 g/L of PHA at 96 hours in PHAMM. However, strain AzoLur19 showed higher productivity and stability, achieving 0.06 g/L*h of PHA. Additionally, Sudan Black B staining in Burk’s medium revealed larger Azotobacter cells with more defined granules. AzoLur19 was classified as Azotobacter chroococcum. In conclusion, Azotobacter species isolated from crops located in Lima can produce PHA with high yields, with A. chroococcum as the predominant species. Highlights: A total of 22 Azotobacter strains were isolated, with A. chroococcum AzoLur19 identified as a promising PHA producer. PHA accumulation was successfully screened using Nile Red and Sudan Black B staining methods. AzoLur20 and AzoLur23 achieved high PHA yields, with up to 87.67% accumulation in Burk medium. AzoLur19 strain reached the highest productivity (0.06 g/L·h) in both PHAMM and modified PHAMM media. Modified PHAMM medium showed potential as an alternative for efficient PHA biosynthesis.
Data-driven Method for the Delimitation of Viticultural Zones: Application in the Mendoza River Oasis, Argentina
In viticulture, understanding the spatial variability of natural factors influencing vineyard potential is essential for terroir characterization. In the present study, we present a data-driven protocol that integrates climate, geomorphology, and soil data to delineate viticultural zones. The method combines spatial layers with statistical tools to partition a region into areas with similar characteristics. The protocol comprises: 1) rescaling multiple spatial data layers, 2) applying spatial multivariate analysis to group spatial units, and 3) using machine-learning algorithms to identify key zoning drivers. The approach was applied to the Mendoza River oasis in Argentina. Climate and geomorphology layers were used first, as they varied at a broader spatial scale than soil data. Two climatic zones were identified, mainly differentiated by elevation and thermal indices. Subsequent soil-based zoning within each climatic zone revealed five distinct edaphoclimatic zones. These zones showed statistically significant differences in environmental variables and exhibited spatial coherence aligned with landscape features. Results showed that this protocol facilitates the integration of diverse data sources and supports a deeper understanding of the uniqueness of vineyard zones in wine-producing regions. Highlights: A data-driven protocol integrates climate, soil, and geomorphology for vineyard zoning. Spatial principal components and clustering ensure geographically coherent zones. Nested zoning distinguishes broad climatic patterns and finer edaphic variability. Random Forest identifies key environmental drivers defining each viticultural zone. The method supports terroir analysis, vineyard management, and regional planning.
Variations of Atmospheric Emissions in the Biomass Burning of Tree Species as an Environmental Indicator
Biomass burning (BB) serves as both an energy source and an environmental indicator. This study examined how CO₂ and fine particle emissions vary during the combustion of biomass from three tree species to determine their contribution to environmental pollution. Leave and stem samples were taken from A. farnesiana (huizache) tree, S. molle (pirul), and P. laevigata (mesquite). The dry biomass was thermally processed in a muffle furnace at temperatures ranging from 50°C to 450°C. Emissions of CO₂, particles smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5), particles smaller than 10 microns (PM10), and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) were measured. The highest emission levels occurred during the pyrolysis process between 250°C and 450°C in both leaves and stems. Among the leaves, the highest emissions of PM2.5 and PM10 were found in huizache, while the highest values were found in mesquite stems. In terms of leaves, mesquite had the highest CO₂ emissions, followed by huizache and pirul. Regarding the stems, pirul had the highest atmospheric emissions of CO₂, followed by huizache and mesquite. In all cases, emission levels exceeded the limits established by Mexican and international environmental regulations, indicating a significant risk to the environment and public health. Highlights: Biomass burning (BB) is the combustion of plant materials, which are widely used for energy production This study experimentally verified the environmental impacts of biomass burning for three tree species under a laboratory pyrolysis process. The highest PM5 and PM10 emissions occurred in A. farnesiana leaves and in P. laevigata stems. The order of highest CO₂ emissions in leaves was laevigata > A. farnesiana > S. molle; in stems, it was S. molle > A. farnesiana > P. laevigata. Further comparisons across biomass burning sources and processes should strengthen evaluations of environmental impact considering air pollution.
Effects of Gibberellic Acid on Flowering Reduction, Fruit Quality and Yield of ‘d’Agen’ Plum (Prunus domestica L.) in Mendoza, Argentina
In Mendoza, the primary industrial plum-producing region in Argentina, the ‘d’Agen’ cultivar represents approximately 90% of the cultivated area. The limited implementation of fruit thinning has a detrimental effect on final fruit size. The objective of this study was to determine the timing of flower induction in ’d’Agen’ plum and to evaluate the response to gibberellic acid (GA) application to reduce flower density and improve fruit size. Over three growing seasons in San Rafael (Mendoza), experiments were conducted on plants grafted onto ‘Marianna 2624’, spaced at 5x3 m and drip irrigated. GA (100 ppm) was applied at four distinct phenological stages: fruit set, young fruit, fruit near final size, postharvest, and a control with no GA application. In the first two seasons, the H phenological stage (fruit set, Baggiolini scale) was identified as the optimum time for reducing flowering via GA application. In the third season, increasing GA concentrations (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 ppm) were evaluated. All concentrations reduced floral density compared to the control. However, fruit set was negatively affected by the 75 and 100 ppm treatments. The decline in flowering (between 60% and 90%) was incompatible with commercial yields. It was concluded that the optimal time for GA application to reduce floral density in ‘d’Agen’ plum was during phenological stage H. Further research is required to determine the most effective dose below 25 ppm. Highlights: Flower induction in ‘d’Agen’ plum occurs at phenological stage H (fruit set). Gibberellic acid (GA) application at stage H reduced flower density up to 90%. High GA concentrations (75-100 ppm) decreased both flowering and fruit set (%). GA treatments improved fruit size but caused excessive yield reduction. Doses below 25 ppm should be evaluated to balance fruit size and yield.
The Native Dryland PGPR ‘Pseudomonas 42P4’ Promotes Adventitious Rooting in Woody Cuttings of Vitis spp.
This study evaluated the effect of two native PGPR strains from an arid region (Mendoza, Argentina) on the rooting of woody cuttings of Vitis spp. These strains are known for their growth-promoting capacity, including auxin production. Dormant V. vinifera cv. Malbec cuttings were grafted onto four rootstocks - 1103 Paulsen, 110 Richter, 101-14 MGt and SO4. Then, basal ends of these grafted cuttings and own rooted controls were incubated for 12 h in solutions of (1) Pseudomonas 42P4 at 107 CFU mL-1, (2) Enterobacter 64S1 at 107 CFU mL-1, (3) autoclaved LB medium, (4) water, and (5) a quick-dip immersion of Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). After treatment, the cuttings were placed in a forcing chamber at 28°C and relative humidity ~100% for 21 days. Rooting parameters and scion-rootstock union percentages were recorded. Pseudomonas 42P4 significantly promoted rooting in Malbec own-rooted cuttings. However, Enterobacter 64S1 had negative or null effects. Furthermore, Pseudomonas 42P4 enhanced rooting in Malbec grafted onto 1103 Paulsen, but not on 101-14 MGt, 110 Richter or SO4. This strain also improved graft union success on SO4, but did not affect the other rootstocks. These results suggest that a dryland native strain such as Pseudomonas 42P4 could sustainably enhance the quality of both own-rooted and grafted grapevine plants in commercial nurseries. Highlights: Pseudomonas 42P4, a native PGPR strain from arid soils, has genotype-specific effects during grapevine propagation. Pseudomonas 42P4 promotes rooting in own-rooted Malbec woody cuttings and in Malbec grafted onto 1103 Paulsen. Pseudomonas 42P4 might be a sustainable alternative to synthetic auxins in commercial nurseries.
Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica L.) Performance under Irrigation. Sowing Dates and Cultivars in the Northern Oasis of Mendoza
Foxtail millet is a short-season, summer annual forage crop primarily used for haymaking in Argentina. Valued for its efficient water use, it provides effective fiber for various milk and meat production systems. This trial evaluated two sowing dates (mid-November and mid-December) for the three commercially available foxtail millet cultivars in Argentina (Yaguané Plus INTA, Carapé Plus INTA, and Nará INTA) across two production cycles (2022/2023 and 2023/2024). The experiment was conducted at the Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, in Mendoza (33°00’38” S and 68°52’28” W). Yields of up to 14,000 kg DM/ha were obtained in the northern oasis of Mendoza. Significant differences in yield were observed between sowing dates, with December sowing yielding more than November. Additionally, Nará INTA was the highest-yielding cultivar. Highlights: High yields of foxtail millet can be obtained in the northern oasis of Mendoza. Sowing in December produce more forage than in November for three foxtail millet cultivars tested.
Derechos de autor 2025 Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias UNCuyo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/deed.es
Compensatory Growth in Pinus ponderosa (Dougl Ex Laws) Plantations Under Early Silvicultural Treatments
Early pruning and thinning in Pinus ponderosa, plantations in Andean Patagonia triggered compensatory growth, characterized by greater trunk growth and structural adjustments. We used a factorial design and mixed-effects models to evaluate stem growth, crown light dynamics, tracheid length (TL), foliar biomass (FB), wood density (WD), and Huber values (Hv) five years after treatment. Trees under combined pruning and thinning (PT) showed the greatest basal area increment, indicating resource reallocation to supportive structures despite early foliage loss. Pruned trees maintained higher Hv and achieved partial recovery of FB. Tracheid elongation was greatest in treated trees, suggesting accelerated xylem maturation, while WD remained unchanged. These results demonstrate the structural plasticity of P. ponderosa, which maintains hydraulic function and growth after canopy disturbance. Our findings provide useful guidance for silvicultural planning in temperate plantations. Highlights: Early pruning and thinning triggered compensatory stem growth through hydraulic and structural adjustments, guiding adaptive management in Andean Pinus ponderosa plantations. The Huber value (Hv) captured the balance between conductive tissue and leaf biomass, revealing hydraulic rebalancing after canopy modification in young plantations. Tracheid elongation indicated accelerated xylem maturation in treated trees without affecting wood density. Findings highlight the potential of early canopy interventions to enhance productivity and hydraulic resilience in managed temperate conifer plantations.
Comparison of fatty acid profiles of sacha inchi oil (Plukenetia huayllabambana), sesame oil (Sesamum indicum), and peanut oil (Arachis hypogaea) using two extraction methods for food purposes
Vegetable oil consumption has increased in recent decades due to the high content of monounsaturated (Omega 9) and polyunsaturated (Omega 3 and 6) fatty acids. For this reason, this research compared the fatty acid profile of sacha inchi, sesame and peanut oils under two extraction methods for food purposes. A completely randomized experimental design considered an A*B factorial arrangement with 3 repetitions. Factor A corresponds to oilseed type and Factor B is extraction method. The results showed that both factors significantly influenced (p<0.05) bromatological characteristics (pH, acidity, peroxide value, relative density and ash). The lowest concentration of saturated fatty acids was obtained in sacha inchi oil + cold pressing (6.80 g/100 g), while monounsaturated fatty acids increased in peanut oil + hot pressing (51.51 g/100 g). Sacha inchi oil + cold pressing had the highest content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (84.36 g/100 g). Highlights: Comparison of lipid profiles in sacha inchi, sesame, and peanut oils. Cold extraction preserves quality, hot extraction increases yield. Cold-pressed sacha inchi contains more polyunsaturated fatty acids. Hot-pressed peanut is more stable and has lower acidity. Sacha inchi provides omega-3, while peanut and sesame are more oxidation-stable.
Green Synthesis and Foliar Application of Copper Nanoparticles in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) to Improve Physiological Parameters and Yield
Nanotechnology holds significant interest across various domains, including agriculture. The green synthesis of nanoparticles offers environmentally friendly solutions. This study aimed to synthesize copper nanoparticles (NPs) using Aloe vera extracts and evaluate their foliar application on two sunflower hybrids, Chané (Ch) and Calchaquí (Ca). The two types of Aloe Vera extracts used to produce nanoparticles were characterized by UV-vis spectral analysis and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The Np particles synthesized with Aloe vera Home (Np1) measured 242.8 nm (62.6%) and 74.87 nm (37.4%), while Aloe vera Commercial (Np2) resulted in sizes of 339.6 nm (90.7%) and 66.07 nm (9.3%). Two different doses of Np (150 ppm and 300 ppm) were applied to sunflower plants. We measured germination power (GP), plant height (PH), leaf number (LN), leaf area (LA), dry weight accumulation and achene yield. Chané’s parameters improved at both nanoparticle doses, while Calchaquí only improved with the 300 ppm treatment. This research highlights the potential use of green nanotechnology to improve growth and yield in sunflower. Highlights: Nanoparticles, with unique physicochemical properties, have garnered significant attention in crop management strategies Aloe vera, popular for its medicinal and bioactive properties, is a compelling candidate for synthesizing copper nanoparticles, aligning with sustainable practices and offering biocompatible and eco-friendly nanomaterials for agriculture. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is an emblematic oilseed crop known for its adaptability to various environments and the capacity to provide oil, seeds, and biomass. This research aims to describe the mechanisms underlying nanoparticle-plant interactions, and how Aloe Vera-based copper nanoparticles affect growth, biomass accumulation and partitioning in two sunflower hybrids. The Np particles synthesized with Aloe vera Home (Np1) measured 242.8 nm (62.6%) and 74.87 nm (37.4%), while Aloe vera Commercial (Np2) resulted in sizes of 339.6 nm (90.7%) and 66.07 nm (9.3%). Chané's parameters improved at both nanoparticle doses (150 ppm and 300 ppm), while Calchaquí showed only improved with the 300 ppm treatment.
Impact of Ozone-Based Postharvest Treatment on the Quality and Shelf Life of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) Microgreens
Microgreens are young vegetable seedlings that have garnered significant attention due to their high concentrations of health-promoting phytochemicals. However, their highly perishable nature presents a significant challenge for postharvest storage. Among the various preservation technologies available, ozone treatment applied to microgreens-an innovative and environmentally sustainable method-has not been extensively studied. This study evaluated the effect of ozone-based sanitization on the shelf life and quality of radish microgreens. Conventional washing treatments using chlorinated water and tap water were compared to ozonated water. During refrigerated storage, key quality parameters were systematically monitored, including fresh weight loss, electrolyte leakage, color changes, and microbial counts. Ozonated water effectively reduced the initial aerobic mesophilic bacterial populations, with no statistically significant differences compared to conventional chlorine treatment. Furthermore, ozone treatment had minimal impact on color, and the weight loss remained below 1%. Although tissue wilting was observed, it was significantly less severe than that associated with chlorine treatment. These findings suggest that ozonated water is a promising alternative to conventional postharvest treatments for enhancing the shelf life and microbiological safety of ready-to-eat microgreens. Highlights: Addressing the issue of limited shelf life of microgreens. Innovative and sustainable ozone technology applied to the postharvest of microgreens. Ozone as an alternative to chlorine for sanitation of ready-to-eat microgreens. Aqueous ozone for initial control of aerobic mesophilic bacteria in microgreens. Minimal weight loss and no color change in ozone-washed microgreens.
Strategic Pathways for the Olive Oil Chain in Argentina: Profitability, Sustainability and Oleo tourism
The olive oil agri-food chain in Argentina is strategically relevant for rural development, employment, exports and tourism. Despite quality production and industrial capacity, the sector faces structural problems: high labour and energy costs, limited domestic consumption, and dependence on subsidized international competitors. This study analyses the chain using multicriteria programming across five dimensions: productive, economic-financial, commercial, environmental and tourism-territorial. The baseline was built from data collected between 2018 and 2024 (Agricultural Census 2018, official reports and international benchmarks), covering the country’s most representative producing regions (Catamarca, La Rioja, San Juan and Mendoza), which together account for over 90% of national output. Results from scenario simulations reveal trade-offs: export-oriented strategies maximize profit but increase vulnerability to global prices; internal consumption growth strengthens resilience yet moderates revenues; environmental sustainability improves efficiency through lower water use; and balanced development with olive oil tourism achieves robust outcomes across all dimensions. A novel contribution is the quantitative inclusion of tourism, showing its potential to generate rural employment and enhance brand value. The findings support forward-looking strategies that combine technological reconversion, market diversification, efficient resource use and tourism integration, offering policy guidelines for sustainable territorial development. Highlights: Multicriteria programming applied to the Argentine olive oil value chain. Integrated analysis of five dimensions: economic, productive, environmental, commercial, tourism. Scenarios reveal optimal strategies combining competitiveness and sustainability. Oleotourism emerges as a driver for regional value creation and diversification. Model supports bioeconomy-based policies for the olive oil sector’s future.
Milk Production, Age at First Calving, and Calving-to-Conception Interval in Holstein, Brown Swiss, and Holstein x Brown Swiss Cows
The objective of this study was to evaluate milk production, age at first calving, and calving to conception interval in Holstein, Brown Swiss, and Holstein x Brown Swiss crossbred cows within a pasture-based dairy system in Argentina. The increasing global demand for more resilient and locally adapted dairy systems has led to a renewed interest in crossbreeding to enhance both reproductive and productive efficiency through heterosis. We analyzed data collected over 10 years (2014-2023) from 647 first-lactation cows, including Holstein, Brown Swiss, and Holstein x Brown Swiss crossbred cows. Data were examined using a mixed-effects linear model with breed, season, and their interactions as fixed effect and year as random effect. The results showed no significant differences in milk production between breeds or seasons. However, a significant interaction between breed and season was observed for the calving-to-conception interval, with a shorter interval for crossbred cows during spring-summer (102 days), compared to Holstein cows (156 days). This finding highlights a potential advantage of crossbreeding in reducing open days during the warmest months, thereby enhancing reproductive efficiency in pasture-based systems. This study suggests that crossbreeding can be a viable strategy for improving reproductive performance of dairy systems while maintaining similar milk yield compared to the other breeds, particularly in grazing systems. Highlights: Crossbreeding is increasingly considered in Argentina to improve resilience and efficiency in pasture-based dairy systems. Milk yield, age at first calving, and calving-to-conception interval in 647 first-lactation cows over a ten-year period were evaluated. No significant differences were found among breeds (Holstein, Brown Swiss cows and their cross) for milk yield or age at first calving. A significant interaction between breed and season was detected for calving-to-conception interval. Crossbred cows showed a shorter calving-to-conception interval than Holstein cows during spring and summer (102 versus 156 days).
Long-term Supplementation Affects the Production, Composition and Lactation Curve of Local Grazing Goats
Twenty-four local goats were divided into two treatments: 1) control group fed only on grazing, and 2) supplemented group, which received supplemental feeding before parturition and during lactation. The highest values of milk production per goat, total milk production, days in milk production fat, protein and lactose yield per day were observed in goats of the supplemented treatment. No treatment effect was found for peak lactation production, persistence of peak production, duration of peak lactation production phase, total yield and fat, protein and lactose concentration, nor for milk production per goat, total milk production and days in milk production by type of calving (single or double). Wood’s curve parameters had the lowest standard error of the estimator in control group, but the highest values of the estimator in supplemented group. We concluded that long-term dietary supplementation of local goats in northern Mexico increases milk production and milk protein, fat and lactose. In addition, it positively influences the estimation of lactation curve parameters. Highlights: The utilization of totally mixed diets as a supplementation strategy in grazing goats has been demonstrated to enhance milk production. Long-term supplementation has been shown to exert a beneficial influence on the estimation of lactation curve parameters. Furthermore, long-term supplementation has been observed to elevate productivity in Criollo goats from northern Mexico.
Guava Leaf Meal (Psidium guajava L.) in Broiler Diets: Effects on Performance, Nutrient digestibilty, and Intestinal Morphology
This study investigated the effect of guava leaf meal (GLM) as a phytobiotic in broilers, focusing on its chemical properties and potential physiological benefits. 135 one-day-old male Cobb broilers were randomly allocated to five treatments (nine replicates per treatment and three birds per replicate): a basal diet with regulated commercial antibiotic (T1), without regulated commercial antibiotic or growth promoters (T2), 1% GLM (T3), 1.5% GLM (T4), and 2% GLM (T5) for 38 d. T2, T3, T4, and T5 reduced feed intake (FI) during the finishing phase (days 20–38, P < 0.0001), but there were no statistical differences in accumulated feed intake (AFI) between treatments. GLM groups had lower ADG during the starter phase (days 3-20, P < 0.05), but there were no statistical differences in accumulated gain. Accumulated feed conversión rate (FCR) was better in T2 to T5 compared to T1 (P < 0.05). GLM groups (T3, T4 and T5) showed significantly higher values of nutrient digestibility (P < 0.05). Duodenum morphology showed that number of villi (P=0.02) and the villus height (P= 0.03) increased with GLM supplementation with respect to control groups (T1 and T2). In conclusion, GLM-based diets enhanced nutrient digestibility and improved intestinal architecture, thereby supporting their inclusion in broiler chicken diets to optimize production efficiency. Highlights: Dietary inclusion of 1.5-2% Guava Leaf Meal significantly enhanced apparent nutrient digestibility in broiler chickens, particularly crude protein and phosphorus. GLM supplementation improved duodenal morphology by increasing villus height and villus number, suggesting enhanced nutrient absorption capacity. Although feed intake was reduced during the finisher phase, overall feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly improved with GLM, indicating better feed efficiency. Guava Leaf Meal demonstrated potential as a natural phytobiotic alternative to conventional antibiotics for optimizing broiler production performance and intestinal health.
Nursery Production of Neltuma Genus in Arid and Semiarid Regions of Argentine: a Review
Neltuma spp. (previously known as Prosopis spp.) are vital for ecological restoration and sustainable forestry in arid and semiarid environments. Although extensively studied, nursery techniques are still inconsistently applied, and poorly integrated. This review synthesizes recent scientific advances in seedling cultivation under controlled conditions, focusing on seed source selection, dormancy-breaking treatments, and substrate-container interactions. This review incorporates developments concerning seed source selection, plant physiology, and nursery trials to identify knowledge gaps and propose strategies for reforestation improvement. We offer actionable guidance for nursery operators, restoration professionals, and policymakers. Future research should focus on long-term field studies, genomic tools, standardization of nursery techniques, biological interactions that improve stress tolerance, and economic feasibility, especially for under-researched species. Highlights: A comprehensive review of nursery production techniques for Neltuma spp. in arid and semi-arid regions of Argentina. Genetic variation and seed provenance significantly influence seedling performance and restoration success. Species-specific pre-germinative treatments improve germination rates and uniformity in nursery settings. Container–substrate combinations strongly affect morphological traits such as height, root collar diameter, and biomass. Future research should prioritize microbial inoculants, cost–benefit analyses, and long-term field evaluations to develop scalable nursery protocols.
Agricultural Land Valuation-Hedonic Pricing and Geostatistical Advances: A State-of-the-Art Review
This review examines international research on agricultural land valuation using hedonic pricing methods and geostatistical techniques. It brings together conceptual frameworks, functional forms, spatial econometric models, and empirical findings from key regions such as the United States, Europe, China, Australia, and Latin America. The main sections of the paper present comparative tables that summarise 23 studies applying log-linear or log-log models, R² values, and estimated marginal effects of irrigation water and other attributes. The review highlights methodological advances, identifies ongoing challenges in modelling spatial dependence and heterogeneous terrains, and outlines research gaps for developing robust valuation frameworks applicable to irrigated arid zones. Highlights: This review synthesises international research that applies hedonic pricing models to agricultural land valuation, emphasising irrigation water as a key market attribute. It compiles 23 empirical studies that compare classical and spatial econometric approaches across diverse agro-ecological regions. Recent advances in geostatistics—such as kriging and spatial regression—improve predictive accuracy and effectively address spatial dependence. Irrigation water consistently exerts positive and significant marginal effects on farmland prices, confirming its dual role as both a productive input and a territorial asset. The study highlights the need for further integration of environmental and socio-political variables, along with improved data harmonisation and dynamic modelling for arid and semi-arid regions.