Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias UNCuyo
Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, from Universidad Nacional del Cuyo, publishes original, peer-reviewed articles in English from all over the world. Scope: Agronomy, Food science and Renewable resources. Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias adheres to the Budapest Open Access Initiative (BOAI): http://www.soros.org/openaccess/ Publishing institution: Universidad Nacional de Cuyo | Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias | Centro de ediciones Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias. Periodicity: One volume is published per year, two issues (June and December). Beginning of activities: June 9, 1949 Online ISSN: 1853-8665
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Impact of intra-vineyard soil heterogeneity on Malbec. Vine growth, yield and wine elemental composition and sensory profile
In Mendoza, viticulture is increasingly expanding into mountainous regions, taking advantage of cooler temperatures. High-altitude vineyards, characterized by greater soil heterogeneity, can significantly impact grapevine growth, development, elemental uptake, and wine sensory attributes. Despite its relevance, the effects of intra-vineyard variability on wine organoleptic quality and elemental composition remain underexplored in the existing literature. This study investigated a high-altitude vineyard planted with Vitis vinifera L. cv. "Malbec", focusing on two contrasting soil depth profiles: shallow soil (SS) and deep soil (DS). The DS exhibited a finer texture, higher water retention and greater cation exchange capacity than the SS. Additionally, DS contained higher concentrations of Mn, while SS was richer in Ca. Vegetative growth and yield varied according to soil type and vintage. Wines from DS showed higher [Mn], consistent with the soil, and increased [Fe] and [Cu] compared to SS wines, possibly due to indirect effects. Significant differences were observed in wine organoleptic properties, with SS wines exhibiting greater color intensity, astringency, and structure. Certain aromas, such as cherry and plum were negatively correlated with [Mn]. These findings highlight the influence of vineyard soils on the elemental composition and sensory profiles of wines, providing valuable insights into terroir characteristics for management strategies. Highlights: Intra-vineyard soil heterogeneity significantly affects vegetative growth, elemental composition, and the sensory profile of Malbec wine. Vines in deep soils exhibited greater vigor and produced more clusters per plant than those in shallow soils. Deep soils retain more water, have higher clay and silt content, and produce wines with higher Mn. In contrast, shallow soils are sandier and rockier, with lower water retention, leading to wines with greater color intensity, astringency, and structure.
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Influence of Apis mellifera in-hive conditions on germination capacity of rapeseed pollen (Brassica napus)
Brassica napus L. (rapeseed, canola) ranks third in worldwide importance among oilseeds. The production of hybrid rapeseed seed requires an androsterile female parent; therefore, fertilization is possible through pollinators carrying viable pollen from an androfertile line. To ensure high pollinator populations, hives are used. However, little is known about the risk of transporting viable pollen into hives. The in vitro germinability of pollen exposed to in-hive conditions was evaluated. Samples of rapeseed pollen obtained from potted plants were placed in four hives of Apis mellifera L. In-hive conditions are unfavorable for rapeseed pollen germinability. Brood areas with the highest temperatures showed no germinated pollen grains within 24 h. Starting at 48 h, germinability decreased significantly, with germinated grains showing atrophied tubes. At 72 h, pollen placed away from brood areas lost germinability. Highlights: Pollen grains in the brood area lost their germination capacity after 24 h of exposure to in-hive conditions, markedly reducing the risk of contaminating new seed production plots. In the honey areas, pollen germinability decreased substantially after 48 h of exposure to in-hive conditions and germination capacity was completely lost after 72 h. The highest germination percentages were obtained with freshly collected pollen (control treatment). Fresh pollen had the thickest and most developed pollen tubes. After 24 h in the hive, pollen grains had thinner, shorter, and convoluted pollen tubes. After 48 h, pollen tubes were atrophied.
Remaining in rural areas: towards a rural entrepreneur’s analysis framework
This research employs an empirical approach to understand aspects defining why young people remain in their rural territories. Utilising a rural region of Caldas, Colombia as a case study and based on an agricultural education program for entrepreneurship, information from 368 rural young people was obtained. The study explored a conceptual model shaped by four dimensions and 34 variables. Using a Probit method, we identify significant variables regarding permanence in rural areas. We identify 11 key variables that determine the categories of socio-demographic profile, profile of entrepreneur characteristics, and category of motivations and territory. Our study contributes to literature on rural entrepreneurship from an empirical approach. Additionally, we propose a new analytical framework to address major problems in agriculture and rural territories, particularly in developing countries, such as Latin America. Highlights: This paper proposes an analysis model of the rural entrepreneur, which seeks to understand the aspects that determine the interest of rural young people wanting to stay within their own rural territories. The categories and variables determining the permanence of rural youth in their territory based on entrepreneurship can be divided into an internal environment such as the dimensions of the profile and skills for entrepreneurship, as well as an external environment based on what determines the territory as a motivational factor. The model shows the relevance of the interrelation of dimensions and environments, as even when rural young people have entrepreneurial skills, there are other aspects that promote permanence in the territories.
Water quality assessment of streams and rivers for irrigation in Southern Continental Patagonia
This work aimed to analyze and classify the suitability of freshwater sources for irrigation in three large hydrographic regions of Southern Continental Patagonia: Coyle, Serrano, and Gallegos. In these regions, there is a lack of information on the irrigation suitability of surface waters. For this, 74 surface water locations were sampled from 42 watercourses in Santa Cruz province and Magallanes region in Argentina and Chile, during dry and wet seasons between 2017 and 2019. The concentration of ions of agricultural interest was evaluated in the laboratory. The pH ranged between 6.1-9.5 with little seasonal variability. The prevailing ions were Ca2+ Mg2+ and HCO3-, while the lower cation concentration was K+. The Sodium Adsorption Ratio was 0.58 ± 0.21 during winter and 0.46 ± 0.15 in summer. Most waters in the region have electrical conductivity values below 250 µS/cm and may be categorized as low-salinity waters. We determined no significant hazards for crops, vegetables, and pasture production in terms of the combined salinity and sodicity indicators. However, a potential negative impact on soil structural stability mainly due to Na+ concentration must be considered for the implementation of suitable irrigation projects. Highlights: Assessment of freshwater quality for irrigation in arid and semiarid environments of Southern Patagonia. Comparative interpretation of salinity and alkali hazards for crops and pasture irrigation and soil stability. The concentration of sodium in freshwater, although low, represents a significant risk for soil stability. Most rivers and streams have optimal quality for crops and pastures irrigation.
Methodological analyses for determining thermal requirements of grape varieties in Tandil, Argentina
This study evaluated the thermal demand of different grapevine varieties (Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Semillón, and Tannat) in Don Bosco, Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Phenology was evaluated during four productive cycles, identifying periods from budburst to flowering onset (BB-FO), flowering onset to veraison onset (FO-VO), and veraison onset to maturity (VO-M). The National Meteorological Service of Argentina provided daily maximum and minimum air temperatures. Six thermal sum methods were used: methods 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3 depended on base temperature for vine development (10°C); methods 2.1 and 2.2, considered base temperature and optimum temperature (25°C); and method 3, considered base, optimum, and threshold temperature (35°C). These methods were evaluated using the standard error of the thermal sum. Methods 2.2 and 3 best fit all four varieties, allowing adequate estimates of cumulative daily heat summation. Highlights: The thermal requirements of four grapevine varieties (Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Semillón, and Tannat) were evaluated in Tandil, Argentina, using different thermal accumulation methods. Methods that consider optimal temperatures and thresholds (methods 2.2 and 3) showed greater accuracy in estimating phenological stages. Tandil’s climate proved suitable for cultivating red grape varieties, highlighting the region’s viticultural potential. The study highlights the need for precise thermal models to optimize grape management under changing climate conditions.
Dry mass production, nutrient accumulation and decomposition rate of cover crops intercropped with a Theobroma cacao full-sun system
Cover crops play a crucial role in promoting soil protection, enhancing organic matter content, facilitating nutrient cycling, and improving overall soil quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biomass production, nutrient accumulation, and decomposition rate of cover crops intercropped with Theobroma cacao trees in a full-sun system. The research was conducted in Ilhéus, Bahia state, Brazil. The experimental design employed randomized blocks with three treatments, four decomposition times, and four replications. The treatments consisted of three cover crops: 1) pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan); 2) brachiaria (Urochloa decumbens); and 3) spontaneous vegetation. Decomposition rates were evaluated using litter bags at specific intervals: 0, 47, 94, 116, and 136 days after field deposition. Dry biomass production and nutrient accumulation by the cover crops were also measured. Spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria treatments exhibited the highest potassium accumulation, while no significant differences were observed among the treatments for the other evaluated nutrients. Moreover, spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria demonstrated higher decomposition rates, with 16.7% and 26.7% of the deposited material remaining at the end of the 136-day study period, respectively. In contrast, the decomposition rate of pigeon pea proved to be slower, with a remaining dry mass of 38.3%, indicating longer persistence in the soil, and consequently a greater half-life time. The cover crops investigated in this study are regarded as promising options for intercropping with cocoa, as they exhibit an average dry mass production of 10 Mg ha-1. This value falls within the desired range for conservationist systems. When selecting species for intercropping, it is crucial to consider the decomposition rates these plants. This consideration ensures that the soil surface remains covered for an extended duration, leading to enhanced conservation and improvement of the soil’s physical, chemical, and biological properties. Soil conservation can be effectively achieved by choosing cover crop species with slower decomposition rates, thereby contributing to the overall health and quality of the soil. Highlights: This study evaluated biomass production, nutrient accumulation, and decomposition rate of cover crops intercropped with Theobroma cocoa trees in a full-sun system. The cover crops investigated exhibit an average dry mass production of 10 Mg ha-1. Spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria treatments exhibited the highest potassium accumulation. Pigeon pea proved to be slower decomposition rate and largest remaining dry masso on the soil. In contrast, Spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria demonstrated higher decomposition rates, consequently less remaining dry mass.
Patrícia Anjos Bittencourt Barreto-Garcia
Challenges in germination of Neltuma caldenia in semi-arid regions: optimization of germination protocols, influence of saline stress and seed quality
Global climate change presents challenges to arid and semi-arid ecosystems, impacting native species such as Neltuma caldenia, endemic to Argentina. This underscores the importance of understanding germination processes for both conservation programs and the restoration of degraded areas. We aimed to evaluate the germination rate of N. caldenia seeds from the south Espinal, using various scarification methods (chemical, mechanical and physical), and temperatures (25-30°C). Additionally, we investigate the effects of accelerated aging (0-96 h at 45°C and 100 relative humidity) and different saline solution concentrations during germination (0-0.6 M NaCl). Our results show that all scarification treatments effectively break seed dormancy while temperature significantly affects germination rates. Prolonged storage (0 to 96h) decreased seed viability. Moderate NaCl levels (0-0.2 M) did not affect germination, but higher concentrations inhibited it completely, with a threshold of -1.81 MPa osmotic potential. Understanding the impact of environmental stressors on seed germination can inform the development of effective conservation strategies among these climate change pressures. Highlights: Shorter duration chemical scarification method (10 minutes) and mechanical scarification were statistically more efficient than the other treatments. Temperature significantly influences germination capacity, with optimal rates achieved at 30–35°C, aligning with the precipitation patterns of the region. caldenia seeds may demonstrate greater resilience to high-temperature and humidity conditions, probably due to higher vigor. Salinity tolerance during germination extends up to -0.90 MPa, highlighting adaptability to saline environments of caldenia compared to other Neltuma species.
Acceptability of bonbons made with camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia L)
The aim of this study was to formulate and evaluate different formulations of camu-camu bonbons, verifying which formulations obtained greater acceptability and maintenance of their nutraceutical potential. The bonbons were made of 2 chocolate-based toppings (white chocolate and milk chocolate), with three types of camu-camu-based fillings (candy, candy + jelly and candy + syrup). A sensory analysis was performed using a questionnaire and a hedonic scale ranging from 9 to 1 to evaluate appearance, colour, taste and texture. The hedonic scale used to assess purchase intentions ranged from 5 to 1. The physicochemical characteristics and bioactive compounds of the bonbons were evaluated. Bonbons had excellent acceptability rates, where consumers would definitely buy bonbons: white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy+camu-camu syrup (F3) and milk chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F4). Consumers would ‘probably buy’ white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F1) based on its texture and high levels of vitamin C (VitC), antioxidant activity (FRAP) and (DPPH), phenolic compounds (Phen), and flavonoids (Flavon). Milk chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F4), white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy+camu-camu syrup (F3), and white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F1) have excellent purchase percentages and levels of VitC, FRAP and DPPH, Phen, and Flavon, and especially titratable low acidity; these formulations are highlighted among consumers. Highlights: Camu-camu bonbons have bioactive compounds and high nutraceutical potential. Different bonbon formulations affect the profile of bioactive compounds in bonbons. The different parts of the camu-camu fruit used in the bonbon’s formulation influence the nutraceutical potential of the products.
Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the woody endocarp of native and commercial walnuts from Argentina
Juglans australis is a tree from the Juglandaceae family found in the southernmost region of America. Its small edible nuts are not commercialized, and their bioactive characteristics are unknown. This study first reports the antioxidant, antiradical, and antibacterial activity of extracts from this native walnut against phytopathogenic bacteria and compared with its commercial counterpart, J. regia L. Different extracts from the woody endocarp (shells) were obtained using methanol and ethyl acetate. Methanolic extracts significantly inhibited phytopathogenic growth at all concentrations tested (0.1, 1, and 10 mg/mL). The best activity was reported against Xanthomonas. Highest total phenolics and the most significant antioxidant activity were determined in methanolic extracts (TPC: 121 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g of dried peel, FRAP: 58.6 mmol Trolox/100 g of peel dried and 9.7 mM Trolox/100 g of dried peel). Extracts from both species demonstrated congruent patterns. Gallic acid was the most abundant compound in the methanolic extract. However, extracts demonstrated superior efficiency, suggesting a potential synergistic effect among their components. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of methanolic extracts against Xanthomonas make them potential control agents. Highlights: First report of antioxidant and antibacterial properties in Juglans australis nuts. Methanolic extracts from walnut shells significantly inhibit Xanthomonas. High phenolic content and antioxidant activity highlight Juglans australis'. Galic acid is the dominant bioactive in methanolic extracts with synergistic effects. Native walnut extracts offer sustainable phytopathogen control alternatives.
Obtaining a lipid extract from peach palm (Bactris gasipaes Kunth) epicarp. Quantification of carotenoid content and application as a food additive
The agro-industrial assessment of fruit by-products as food additives would allow compliance with Sustainable Development Goals. This research aimed at the homogenizer-assisted extraction of total carotenoids from peach palm (Bactris gasipaes) peel (epicarp) with sunflower oil. We also studied its application as a natural additive in white corn flour food. The response surface methodology and the rotational composite central design quantified the extraction process. The studied factors were extraction speed, temperature, time, and liquid-solid ratio. Total carotenoid content in the extract (336.06 µg/g dried epicarp) was optimized at 50°C, with 76 seconds, extraction speed of 19200 rpm, and liquid-solid ratio of 48.75 mL/g. The green extract obtained from homogenizer-assisted extraction constitutes a natural additive with agro-industrial potential for use in roasted corn cake, increasing carotenoid (30.60 µg/g of β-carotene), provitamin A (4.14 µg/g) and antioxidant activity (11.57 % DPPH). Highlights: Homogenizer-assisted extraction (HAE) is adequate for carotenoid extraction in peach palm epicarp. The lipid extract from the peach palm epicarp is a source of provitamin A. Lipid extract obtained is a natural additive with potential for use in corn griddle cakes.
Feeding strategies for Holando Argentino steers aimed at different markets
The objective was to evaluate the performance and meat quality of Holando Argentino (HA) steers under different feeding strategies. One hundred twenty-eight HA steers (181.4 ± 25.5 kg of live weight [LW]) were allocated to four treatments: FL: feedlot finishing during 98 days; Gr1.25: grazing with 1.25% LW/day maize grain supplementation during 235 days; Gr0.70: grazing with 0.70% LW/day maize grain supplementation during 331 days; and GrFL: 287 days grazing background and 116 days feedlot finishing. Average daily gains (ADG) were 1.14, 1.02, 0.82, and 0.81 kg/day for FL, Gr1.25, Gr0.70, and GrFL, respectively (p<0.01). Adjusted productivity ranged between 710 and 741 kg LW/ha (p>0.05). GrFL and Gr0.70 presented the highest carcass weight (CW; 288.3 ± 5.0 and 267.8 ± 12.2 kg, respectively, p<0.001). Gr0.70 presented the lowest longissimus thoracis (LT) L* (p<0.01) and the highest a* (p<0.05). Intramuscular fat was the highest for GrFL (4.86 ± 0.93%, p<0.05). In all strategies, LT shear force presented values of tender meat (29.9 ± 3.4 N, p=0.60). HA steers have the flexibility to produce tender meat under different, high-productivity strategies. Highlights: Holando Argentino steers produced tender meat under contrasting feeding strategies with high productivity. Intramuscular fat content was mainly determined by total grain intake. Grains can be used at different phases to manage live weight gains, as well as subcutaneous and intramuscular fat endpoints. Average daily gains, fat thickness, and carcass weight influenced meat color.
Nutritional and morpho-anatomical characterization of Phyllostachys aurea (Poaceae, Bambusoideae, Bambuseae) foliage for Argentine livestock systems
Bamboo cultivation in Argentina could represent a major economic activity if its various applications were revealed. This study characterized the anatomy and micromorphology of leaf blades by optical and scanning electron microscopes. Foliage leaves presented predominant parenchyma and scarce sclerenchyma. Foliage chemical and biological composition were analyzed in 3 populations of P. aurea sampled in two contrasting seasons of the year. The six samples evaluated showed 13% protein, adequate for ruminant feed. Neutral detergent fiber (aNDFom) was approximately 60% DM, a probable limiting factor for consumption. Significant differences in ADFom (acid detergent fiber) and ADLom (acid detergent lignin) favored spring results, with lower values than winter results. The presence of silica in different cell types could limit digestion. Fermentation kinetics indicated that dry matter digestibility is close to 50%, and higher in spring given lower amounts of indigestible components. In addition, all samples analyzed had a low content of immediately soluble material and a high content of potentially fermentable insoluble material. Anatomy and chemical-nutritional characterization allow P. aurea foliage to be considered in ruminant feeding. Highlights: Nutritional and morpho-anatomical studies are complementary in the evaluation of forages for ruminants. Anatomy and chemical-nutritional characterization allow aurea foliage to be considered in ruminant feeding. Silica in epidermis, trichomes, cell walls or lumen of grasses acts as structural inhibitor of microbial digestion leading to lower acceptability and DMD. The high silica content accounts for 82% of the total ash, suggesting the presence of indigestible substances. Phyllostachys aurea foliage leaves showed 13% protein, adequate for ruminant feed and neutral detergent fiber was approximately 60%DM.
Characterization of the pork sector in the productive core of Argentina: a look at small producers
Pros and cons of pork production in Argentina underscore the need to have information to empower pork producers. This study characterizes three pork production strata (Small, Medium, and Large) in north Buenos Aires using surveys (n=40). We provide information on farms, management practices, infrastructure, technology and commercial activities. We found significant differences (p-value < 0.05) between strata in the use of artificial insemination and effluent treatment (mainly through lagoons and soil application) regarding infrastructure and technology. Additionally, there was a trend towards breeding in confined systems as the size of the production increased. Furthermore, despite 72.50% of surveyed producers having reported access to professional veterinary advice, we found a significant difference (p-value = 0.0167) in access between the Small (45.45%) and Large (100%) strata. Regarding commercialization, data indicated piglet sales as the predominant activity, with pig farming serving as a supplementary source of income for most producers. These findings show the need for professional intervention in smaller-scale pig farms to overcome structural barriers and access to the production chain. Highlights: The majority of surveyed pork producers (82.05%) relied on natural mating for breeding, with significantly greater access to artificial insemination in the Large stratum. For the first time, information is presented on effluent disposal and/or treatment processes to reduce contaminants, along with workforce size, within the study area. A Significant proportion of surveyed swine producers (72.50%) received veterinary advice, though there was a statistically difference between the Small and Large strata. Predominant proportion of producers (65%) reported primarily selling piglets, with private sales prevailing in the Small and Medium stratum.
Nutritional characterization of Larrea divaricata Cav during winter and its potential as cattle and goats feed
The ever-increasing global demand for agricultural commodities and progressive climate change factors are displacing extensive beef cattle and goat ranching from temperate humid regions to peripheral regions with semi-arid characteristics. Extensive investigation is required on native desert plants to be safely incorporated into feed programs and to maintain the biodiversity and sustainability of these fragile ecosystems. Larrea divaricata is a native plant adapted to arid and semi-arid biomes of South and Western-South America. This research evaluates the nutritional composition of the browsing available canopy parts of Larrea divaricata during the winter season in a semi-arid region of Argentina. Its crude protein content resulted in 11.20% of dried matter and its soluble protein content resulted in nearly 80% of the crude protein. Acid detergent fiber fraction, ash-corrected neutral detergent fiber fraction, lignin, ash content, fat-like compounds, and non-fibrous carbohydrates resulted in 17.42, 35.51, 12.09, 9.96, 5.92 and 3.82% of dried matter, respectively. Essential bioelements Ca, Mg and K resulted within standard forage requirements. Total polyphenols and flavonoids resulted in 430 mg/g and 140 mg/g, respectively. These results demonstrate that Larrea divaricata can be an effective complement for winter-feeding beef cattle and goats in arid and semi-arid regions. Highlights: Larrea divaricatacan be an effective complement for winter-feeding beef cattle and goats in arid and semi-arid regions. Crude protein and carbohydrates resulted in 11.20% and 9.74% of dried matter, respectively. Essential bioelements resulted within standard forage requirements.
Impact of Cry1Ac soybean (Glicine max) on biological and reproductive cycles and herbivory capacity of Spodoptera cosmioides and Spodoptera eridania (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Increasing populations of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker) and Spodoptera eridania (Stoll) have recently been detected in soybean crops in central Argentina. Besides being polyphagous, these species tolerate the Cry1Ac insecticidal toxin, expressed by genetically modified Bt soybean (MON89788 x MON87701). Consequently, when facing big populations, farmers often apply insecticides. This study aimed to determine the effects of Bt soybean on the consumption, biological cycle, and reproduction of both Spodoptera species. Larval feeding on Bt soybean led to a shorter pupal period (23% less than control) and a decreased leaf-area consumption for S. cosmioides (14% less than the non-Bt soybean). In S. eridania, the larval stage, adult longevity, larva-to-adult, and oviposition periods were reduced (11, 23, 13, and 30% shorter than control, respectively). Despite these reductions, both Lepidoptera species completed their reproductive cycles. These valuable findings help us understand the biology of these potential pests in Bt soybean crops in Argentina. Highlights: We studied the effect of the insecticidal toxin Cry1Ac expressed by genetically modified Bt soybean on the biological and reproductive cycle and foliar consumption of cosmioides and S. eridania. Spodoptera cosmioides registred a shorter duration of the pupal period. In eridania shorter duration of the larval and adult stages, larva-to-adult period and oviposition period were observed. Leaf-area consumption by cosmioides decreased in Bt soybean.
Preventive and curative effects of native yeasts on different Botrytis cinerea strains in “Superior Seedless” (Vitis vinifera L.) table grape cultured in Argentina
The fermenting grape must is a dynamic, stressful, and selective habitat where many yeast species compete. Specific yeasts isolated from this habitat can play a fundamental role in table grape biocontrol of fungal diseases. The present study evaluated 225 grapevine yeasts against four Botrytis cinerea strains isolated from “Superior Seedless” grapes, considering the possible antifungal action mechanisms. Eighteen enological yeasts (13 Saccharomyces and 5 non- Saccharomyces) showed preventive antifungal activity against the four native B. cinerea strains, with disease severity varying between 0 and 49.91%. These 18 strains also presented curative activity against at least one of the B. cinerea strains assayed (severity values between 0 and 45.99%). Considering action mechanisms, thirteen yeast strains inhibited mycelial growth of at least one B. cinerea strain during dual plating (antibiosis), “killer” activity, and volatile antifungal assays. Our results showed that 7 yeast strains affected conidial germination (CG) and germinal tube length (GTL) of at least one B. cinerea isolate. Two yeast strains occupied the same niche as 4 B. cinerea strains (NOI values > 0.90). All yeast strains exhibited at least two inhibitory action mechanisms against gray rot, except for BSc140 with one mechanism. The possibility of more than one mechanism per yeast strain makes biocontrol an effective tool to prevent and cure gray rot in table grapes. Highlights: We evaluated 225 native grapevine yeasts against four Botrytis cinereastrains isolated from “Superior Seedless” grapes, considering the possible antifungal action mechanisms. Saccharomyces (13) and 5 non- Saccharomyces(5) strains showed preventive antifungal activity against native cinerea strains (4). Some grapevine yeasts (10 Saccharomycesy 4 non- Saccharomyces) presented curative activity against cinerea strains. Grapevine yeasts, with preventive and curative activity, presented different antifungal mechanisms against cinerea.
Pesticide drift: comparing spraying systems under variable field climatic conditions
Safe pesticide application must ensure efficacy in pest control while minimizing environmental and human health risks. This study investigated pesticide potential drift by comparing ground and aerial spraying systems under different climatic conditions. The research was conducted in Rio Verde, Goiás, Brazil, using a randomized block experimental design with 10 repetitions and a 2 x 2 split-plot scheme, considering spraying systems and climatic conditions as factors. Favorable and Unfavorable conditions were determined by relative air humidity, temperature, and wind speed. Aerial spraying was performed using a Cessna aircraft, while terrestrial spraying was done using a self-propelled Montana Parruda sprayer. Variables assessed included Volumetric Median Diameter (VMD), droplet density (DEN), and target coverage. Results revealed that aerial spraying has a higher drift potential, exceeding 180 m, compared to terrestrial spraying, limited to 90 m under unfavorable conditions. Although terrestrial spraying produces larger droplets, its shorter distance to the target and reduced speed minimize lateral movement, limiting drift potential. Droplet density and non-target area coverage were low for both systems, (0.1%). Under ideal conditions, aerial spraying is more efficient, but both methods require rigorous safety measures to prevent contamination risks. This study underlines the importance of considering droplet size and specific environmental conditions when choosing a spraying system, contributing to safer and more efficient agricultural practices. Highlights: Terrestrial spraying produces larger droplets which results in limited drift potential. Aerial spraying has a higher drift potential compared to terrestrial spraying. Aerial spraying is more efficient under favorable environmental conditions. For safer and more efficient agricultural practices it is important considering droplet size and specific environmental conditions.
. Arachis genetic resources: evaluation of peanut smut resistance in wild species
Genetic resources are essential for crop improvement. Particularly, wild species related to peanuts are an important source of resistance to various factors. Thecaphora frezii, a pathogen causing peanut smut, leads to yield losses in Argentina’s peanut sector up to 35%. This study evaluated the response of 11 diploid species with A, B, F and K genomes, A. monticola (AABB), and diploid interspecific hybrids (BB), to T. frezii over two cropping seasons. Plants were grown in 20L pots (three replicates each) under field conditions and inoculated with teliospores of the pathogen (20,000 tel./g of soil). The disease was quantified through incidence (% of diseased pods) and severity (scale from 0 to 4). Among A genome species, A. duranensis exhibited the highest incidence at 15.27%; for K genome species, A. batizocoi reached 13.18%. Resistance to T. frezii was observed in the wild species A. diogoi and A. stenosperma (A genome), A. williamsii (B genome), A. trinitensis (F genome), A. cruziana (K genome), and the intragenomic hybrids, constituting new records. Our findings expand the peanut gene pool information for breeders and identify resistant genotypes, supporting the need to preserve wild peanut germplasm to ensure its availability. Highlights: Arachis species with B and F genomes displayed resistance to peanut smut, while AA and KK genome species exhibited varying susceptibility. Genotypes resistant to Tecaphora frezii were identified, expanding the peanut gene pool available for developing resistant genotypes. Wild Arachis species constitute important sources of alleles to diversify A. hypogaea genome and enhance resistance to multiple diseases, including peanut smut. Careful conservation of wild groundnut germplasm is crucial to ensure its availability for future breeding efforts.
Overview of garlic waste management, circular economy and upcycling
In the last three years, 2 billion tonnes of untreated and dismissed agricultural wastes have been accumulated without adequate management of reuse or final disposal, resulting in dumping or burning. The circular economy concept has gained increasing global recognition for addressing environmental and economic challenges. Garlic, the second most common bulb vegetable cultivated worldwide, generates significant waste during its industrial processing, including husks, stalks, straws, and leaves. These wastes, representing 3.0 to 3.7 million tonnes of residual biomass per year, are currently underutilised, with the usual treatment involving dumping in landfills or direct burning, leading to increased soil and air pollution. In this review, we aim to encourage innovation by presenting a search for state-of-the-art garlic waste management. We identified studies about garlic residual biomass valorisation as raw material for obtaining different extracts and polymers, even energy or biofuels. Finally, following circular economy principles, we propose potential uses for garlic by-products to be repurposed or upcycled as materials within agricultural or other production chains. The information above reveals an increasing demand and interest in garlic waste valorisation. Future studies are needed to exploit garlic by-products as important sources of biopolymers and phytochemicals. Highlights: Garlic Waste Generation: Garlic production generates 3.0 to 3.7 million tonnes of residual biomass annually, including husks, stalks, and leaves. Current Disposal Methods: Garlic by-products are often disposed of through landfilling or burning, causing environmental pollution and resource loss. Valorisation Potential: Garlic residual biomass can be valorised into bioactive compounds, biopolymers, biofuels, and other sustainable materials. Circular Economy Approach: By-products from garlic can be integrated into circular economy models for use in agricultural and industrial production. Future Research Directions: Further research is needed to optimize garlic by-products for biopolymer and phytochemical production, enhancing sustainability.