Volume 24, No. 2 (June, 2023)
1. AZHARGUL IRKITBAY*, ZAGIPA SAPAHKOVA, NATALIIA DIDENKO, AIGUL MADENOVA, GALYMBEK KANAT AND KHANDAKAR RAFIQ ISLAM [Evaluating salicylic and oxalic acid on the enzyme activities, yield and stress tolerance in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 219-228 (2023). Kazakh National Agrarian Research University, Almaty, Khazakhstan *(e-mail: Ahzhan247@gmail.com)
ABSTRACT
Wheat is an important global food security commodity; however, its production is affected by abiotic and biotic stresses associated with climate change. Therefore, a study was conducted during 2019-21 at Kazakh Research Institute of Agriculture and Crop Production, Almaty, Kazakhstan to evaluate the effects of salicylic and oxalic acid on the stress tolerance and yield of wheat (cv. Arai). The three-factorial field study was laid out in RBD comprising of different rates of salicylic acid (0, 0.25 and 0.50 mM), and oxalic acid (0, 0.10, and 0.20 mM) which were applied via foliar and seed treatments. Both salicylic and oxalic acid exerted significant main effects on wheat without any interactions. While polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase activities increased by salicylic acid, polyphenol oxidase activity decreased (by 16%) by oxalic acid. Foliar treatment of both salicylic and oxalic acids increased enzyme activities than the seed treatment. Wheat spikelet (by 14-8%) and grain yield (by 5-8%) were increased by 0.25 and 0.50 mM salicylic acid, compared to the control. Likewise, grain yield significantly increased by 9-19% with 0.10 and 0.20 mM oxalic acid, respectively. Oxalic acid significantly improved the wheat stress tolerance than that of the salicylic acid. Results suggested that 0.50 mM salicylic acid or 0.20 mM oxalic acid, or in combination, can be applied to improve wheat stress tolerance and grain yield.
2. Tatyana Ivanchenko* [Ways to increase the yield of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Kamyshanka 5 in the conditions of the Lower Volga Region]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 229-235 (2023). Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology, Complex Melioration and Protective Afforestation of the Russian Academy of Sciences” (Federal Research Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences) 97 Universitetskiy Prospekt, 400062, Volgograd, Russia *(e-mail: tvivanchenko@bk.ru)
ABSTRACT
In recent years, the catalog of applied chemicalization agents has been replenished with a new generation of preparations, which are a complex of compounds containing various bioactive substances, macro- and micro compounds. After treatment of seeds with these biopreparations the time between sowing and sprouting is accelerated, plants build up a strong vegetative mass, the yield and quality of grain as well as resistance to diseases and pests is increased. The aim of our research was to study the effect of complex preparations on the yield and quality of winter wheat. This study conducted in the arid zone of the Lower Volga region in the experimental field of the Federal Research Center of Agroecology RAN from 2018 to 2020 (Russia, Volgograd) the results of the effect of pre-sowing seed treatment with chemical, biological protectants and physiologically active substances and foliar fungicide treatments on winter wheat crops were presented. The objects of research in field experiments were chemical seed dresser (Inshur Perform) and fungicide (Azorro), biological fungicide (BSKa-3), growth regulators (Extrasol and Bio-Don) and organic fertilizer (Potassium Humate). During the research, soil samples of light chestnut heavy loam soil and plant samples of winter wheat by phase of development were taken. The results showed that the use of biologically active compounds contributed to the strengthening of growth and development of winter wheat. The maximum number of productive stems–345 pcs/m2, 35.7 grains per ear, weight of a grain per ear 1.10 g, weight of 1000 grains–31.38 g formed plants at plots where only new generation biological preparations were used. Compared with the yield on the variants without treatment (control), the yield at plots with the use of biological preparations was 1.14 t/ha higher.
3. JAMAL WALEED MAHMOOD* AND MOHAMMED FAWZI HAMZA AL-HASSAN [Effect of hierarchy of the production of tillers in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivar (KM5180) under the influence of planting dates]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 236-240 (2023). College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad, Iraq *(e-mail: jamal.waleed@coagri.uobaghdad.edu.iq)
ABSTRACT
Sowing dates are an important factor in determining grain yield as they fall within the climatic changes, as the temperature plays an important role in increasing the yield. For the purpose of evaluating the planting dates during the winter season, a field experiment was conducted at Experiments Station, affiliated to the Department of Field Crops/College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad during 2020-21. The aim was to study the effect of planting dates on soft wheat cultivar (KM5180). A randomized complete block design (R. C. B. D.) was used with three replications. Sowing dates were used as main parameters viz., November 22nd (D1), December 6th (D2) and December 20th (D3). The results showed the superiority of the sowing date (D1) by giving the highest average grain yield of 5.740 t/ha as a result of the superiority of the plants of this date in the number of spikes/m2 (441.7), the biological yield (17.896 t/ha), the harvest index (32.09%) and the plant height (101.387 cm) and the weight of 1000 grains/g was 39.97 g, significantly superior to dates (D2) and (D3), which gave an average of 4.423 and 2.428 t/ha, 358.3 and 331.7 spikes/m2, 14.556 and 11.353 t/ha, 30.38 and 21.39%, 89.033 and 85.387 cm and 39.11 and 28.28 cm, respectively, The reason for the superiority was due to the appropriate environmental conditions accompanying during the growth period, including the appropriate temperature that gave the products of photosynthesis sufficient to meet the requirements to complete the stages of its growth and form the initiators of its organs in an optimal form, which was positively reflected on the components of the appointment (D1). As for the delay in the dates D2 and D3, the high temperatures coincided with the critical growth stages of plant growth, which reflected negatively on some traits. 7. Sequentially a grain/spike and (11.43, 11.54 and 11.29 cm, respectively. While date D3 was significantly superior in terms of the number of spikelets/spike with an average of (16,800) spikelets/spike over dates D2 and D1, and they gave an average of (16,300 and 16,200) spikelets/spike, respectively. In the light of the obtained results, we conclude that the shares of the total dates (D2) and (D3) reached 54% higher than the contribution of the sowing date (D1), which amounted to 46%, while the late sowing date (D3) achieved half of the share of the share in the grain yield.
4. A. S. MUKHOMEDYAROVA, A. K. KUSHENBEKOVA, M. M. ELEKESHEVA, ZH. M. GUMAROVA* AND A. A. BULEKOVA [Influence of nitrogen mineral fertilizer application methods on the preservation and yield of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum)]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 241-249 (2023). Zhangir Khan West Kazakhstan Agrarian Technical University 51 Zhangir khan str., Uralsk, 090009, Republic of Kazakhstan *(e-mail: aina_zhg@mail.ru)
ABSTRACT
The Republic of Kazakhstan, like other nations in the globe that produce grains is currently faced with the challenge of boosting grain production and shelf life. Wheat grain yield and preservation are significantly influenced by different fertilization techniques as well as the soil’s moisture level. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the optimal method of applying nitrogen mineral fertilizers during the entire growing season in the conditions of dark chestnut soils of the dry steppe zone of the Urals when growing winter wheat crops (the Zhemchuzhina Povolzhya variety). The study was conducted on the territory of the Ural Agricultural Experimental Station in the West Kazakhstan region in the Republic of Kazakhstan during 2019-22. In the experiment consisted of five variants: without the use of fertilizers (control group), root fertilization in spring during wheat regrowth (N30 in the tillering phase), foliar fertilization in the earing phase (N30 in the earing phase), a combination of root and foliar fertilization (N15 in the tillering phase+N15 in the earing phase) and a combination of root and foliar fertilization (N30 in the tillering phase+N30 in the earing phase). The results of the study revealed that the greatest impact on the preservation of plants was provided by fertilization at a dose of N30 in the tillering phase and N30 in the tillering phase+N30 in the earing phase (grain filling), and the highest grain yield was obtained with the fertilization at a dose of N30 in the tillering phase and N30 in the tillering phase+N30 in the earing phase, which provided an increase in yield of 2.2-2.3 q/ha. The authors concluded that the problem of weather conditions could be compensated with the use of the identified effective ways of applying nitrogen mineral fertilizers and the most effective for the specific area fertilizer.
5. E. V. Seminchenko*, A. V. Guzenko And A. V. Solonkin [Testing of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties of ASC “Donskoy” on chestnut soils of the Volgograd region]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 250-255 (2023). Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology, Integrated Land Reclamation and Protective Afforestation of the Russian Academy of Sciences” (FRC of Agroecology of the RAS), University Avenue, 97, 400062, Volgograd, Russia *(e-mail: eseminchenko@mail.ru)
ABSTRACT
In Russia, the main food culture is wheat. Its cultivation is a guarantor of stability and efficiency of the economy. A significant role of breeding work is in increasing its productivity. Therefore, this research was conducted during 2020-22 at the Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Kamyshinsky district for testing winter wheat varieties. These varieties were selected as the most stress- and drought-resistant in their breeding characteristics. The location and laying of the experimental plot were selected so that the characteristics of the varieties corresponded to climatic indicators, field records of the yield structure were conducted according to the methodology of B. A. Dospekhov and the state variety testing. The Pearson coefficient (r-Pearson) was used for the correlation analysis. The significance of the differences was assessed by the smallest significant difference at the significance level of 5% (HCP05). According to the totality of the variety’s reactions to the complex of prevailing soil and climatic conditions, it is possible to distinguish the varieties Razdolye and Premier. The highest yields were shown by Lilit, Don’s Niva, Premier and Don’s Ruby varieties, from 2.50 to 2.66 t/ha. The analysis of winter wheat grain for the content of raw gluten and protein allowed us to identify the highest quality varieties: Dione and Onyx–24.1-25.6% and from 13%, respectively. Lilit, Don’s Niva, Don’s Ruby and Premiere varieties showed great profitability. Statistical processing showed that the grain yield of the studied winter wheat varieties in the steppe zone was reliably associated with field germination (r=0.5-0.7), grain weight in the ear (r=0.7), weight of 1000 grains (r=0.53) and the number of grains in the ear (r=0.68). Thus, in the conditions of the Lower Volga region, the quantitative values of weather factors were identified that determine the formation of high yields of varieties: Expanse, Premiere.
6. A. V. GUZENKO* AND A. YU. GUZENKO [Investigation of the dependence of various backgrounds of modern fertilizers and Triticum aestivum (L.) yields in the Southern Federal District of Russia]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 256-262 (2023). Federal State Budgetary Institution “Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology, Complex Land Reclamation and Protective Afforestation of the Russian Academy of Sciences” Volgograd, Russia *(e-mail: andrey-guzenko@yandex.ru)
ABSTRACT
Despite the large areas occupied by the wheat, still an increase in its productivity is in need, especially in years with difficult climatic conditions. The task of raising the yield of winter wheat is not new and can be accomplished in a number of ways, with new crop types and current technologies based on the use of fertilizers being the most important. However, the influence of various fertilizers on the productivity of different varieties under certain conditions of crop growth in most cases remains open. Therefore, a study was conducted in the conditions of the dry-steppe zone of light chestnut soils of the Samara region on the predecessor –Hordeum sativum J.– on 16 varieties of two breeding centers. The field experience was laid at the experimental site of the Federal Research Center for Agroecology, Russian Federation during 2020-22. The studied varieties showed significant differences in productive stem and productivity. The background of nutrition, as well as the forms and doses of the studied complexes ammonium nitrate + biologics (Active ingredient amino acids) provided a significant increase in the gluten content in winter wheat grain compared to the natural background (without treatment). The presented results require further study, but already now we can talk about the positive effect of additional nutrition on increasing the productivity of Triticum aestivum L.
7. E. V. SEMINCHENKO* AND A. YU. GUZENKO [Effect of micro fertilizers on the yield of spring barley in arid conditions of the Volgograd region]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 263-269 (2023). Federal State Budgetary Institution “Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology, Integrated Land Reclamation and Protective Afforestation of the Russian Academy of Sciences” Volgograd, Russia *(e-mail: eseminchenko@mail.ru)
ABSTRACT
Due to the changing climatic conditions in the Southern Federal District over the past 30 years, the yield of spring barley has fallen sharply due to the sharp hot and extreme temperatures. During 2020-22, on the basis of early studies and a summary of meteorological forecast data in the Volgograd region, an experiment was laid at the Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Kamyshinsky district to test spring barley varieties: Ratnik, Generous, Format and Azimuth. These varieties were selected as the most stress and drought-resistant in their breeding characteristics. The main goal was to obtain promising processing of modern varieties of spring barley for practical use in production in arid climatic conditions, as well as mathematical processing of the data obtained for the Southern Federal District of the Russian Federation. The location and laying of the experimental plot were selected so that the characteristics of the varieties corresponded to climatic indicators, and field records of the yield structure were conducted according to the methodology of B. A. Dospekhov and the state variety testing. Based on the obtained correlation parameters, a check was carried out through the degree of freedom to take into account the calculations for the adequacy of the events under consideration. Based on the processed data for 2020-22, it can be concluded that intensive processing with micro fertilizers on a leaf + ammonium nitrate 30 kg/ha+grain biostim positively affect the quality characteristics of spring barley varieties, however, everything depends on the intended purpose of the output of spring barley: for feed purposes or 0 brewing.
8. A. YU. GUZENKO* AND E. V. SEMINCHENKO [The study of the dependence of biological products and the yield of spring barley (Hordeum vulgare) variety ‘Ratnik’ in arid conditions of the Volgograd region, Russia]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 270-275 (2023). Federal State Budgetary Institution “Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology, Integrated Land Reclamation and Protective Afforestation of the Russian Academy of Sciences” Volgograd, Russia *(e-mail: guzenko.family@mail.ru)
ABSTRACT
Within two years, based on theoretical data and research by other scientists in the arid conditions of the Volgograd region, an experiment was laid on the basis of the Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences in the Kamyshinsky district in the village of Gosselek station on the influence of modern micro fertilizers on spring barley. Our goal was to obtain data on practical application, as well as to analyze and identify the dependence of various yield coefficients and preparations on climatic conditions characteristic of the region. The object was spring barley (Hordeum vulgare) and modern biological products. When conducting research in 2020-21, climatic conditions and adaptive properties of spring barley in the arid zone were taken into account. Observations were carried out according to the methodology of Dospekhov and the state variety testing. After harvesting, a structural analysis of the components of plant productivity was carried out (the number of productive stems per plant, the number of productive spikelets in the ear, the number of grains in the main ear, the number of grains in the spikelet, the number of grains from the plant and the mass of grain from the main ear, the mass of grain from the plant and the mass of 1000 grains). Processing and analysis of mathematical data were carried out in the Excel program. The significance of the difference between the analyzed indicators (NSR05) was determined with a reliable probability of 95%, the arithmetic mean (M) and standard deviation were calculated (±SD). The coefficient of paired correlation (r) between the indicators of the crop structure was calculated with a reliable probability of 95%. The significance level P < 0.05 was taken as reliable. Data analysis showed that the best indicators of the structure of the spring barley crop were obtained on variant B3. On the basis of the data obtained, regression models were constructed that revealed the relationship between yield factors. Based on the processed data for 2020-21, it can be concluded that there is a direct relationship between the yield of spring barley and the signs. The yield of spring barley can be influenced not only by the introduction of various drugs that stimulate the development of plants, but also by the soil and climatic conditions of the region.
9. MEHRNOUSH AMINISARTESHNIZI* [Phylogenetic position of Aporcella simplex (Nematoda: Dorylaimida) associated with maize using 28S rDNA from South Africa]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 276-278 (2023). Aquaculture Research Unit, School of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa *(e-mail: mehrnoush.aminisarteshnizi@ul.ac.za)
ABSTRACT
Dorylaimida members are medium to large nematodes that live in the soil and create a balanced environment towards improving yield in various crops. Aporcella species are omnivores and, therefore, can feed on other nematodes around the roots of maize, resulting in better production. This species must be identified correctly because it is a beneficial nematode and can enhance the yield of maize through the microbial balancing of the soil. On the other hand, maize is one of the most important crops in Limpopo Province in South Africa. Therefore, this molecular study was conducted in 2023 at Limpopo University to identify the nematode from South Africa’s soils using 28S rDNA marker. The recovered nematode was extracted using the tray method, and then its DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. The nematode was identified as Aporcella simplex (Thorne & Swanger). Afterwards, 28S rDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode at the molecular level. The Nblast analysis based on the large subunit ribosomal DNA showed that South African A. simplex had 99% similarity (MN262455) with the South African population. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as A. simplex in the same clade with highly supported (100) bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was determined using 28S rDNA; however, other rDNA markers, such as ITS rDNA and mtDNA, are recommended for a better understanding of A. simplex phylogeny.
10. Yayan Sumekar*, Uum Umiyati, Agus usanto, Hersanti and Arthamevia Arielki [Synergistic test of atrazine 72% and mesotrion 8% herbicide against broadleaf weeds and grass weeds in corn (Zea mays L.) cultivation]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 279-286 (2023). Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Padjadjaran Jalan R. Jatinangor Km 21, West Java, Indonesia *(e-mail: yayan.sumekar@unpad.ac.id)
ABSTRACT
Weed control employing single pesticide continually in the long-term causes weeds to become resistant. The usage of combined pesticides helps limit the occurrence of weed resistance. Herbicide formulations containing two or more active ingredients will exhibit interactions between constituents which could be synergistic, additive or antagonistic. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness and synergism test of the mixture with the active ingredients atrazine 72%+mesotrion 8% against several types of weeds in sweet corn plantations. The experiment was carried out during 2022 at the Agricultural Training and Development Research Center, Padjadjaran University, Bandung, Indonesia. The treatment consisted of three types of herbicides with six dose levels, there was mixture of atrazine 72%+mesotrion 8%, herbicide atrazine 72% and herbicide mesotrion 8% with four replications. Target weeds included Ageratum conyzoides, Borreria alata, Synedrella nodiflora, Richardia brassiliensis, Eleusine indica, Digitaria ciliaris and Paspalum conjugatum. Data analysis used the percentage of weed damage to determine the effectiveness of each herbicide and linear regression analysis using the Multiplicative Survival Model (MSM) method to determine the LD50 of each herbicide. The results showed that the mixed herbicides atrazine 72%+mesotrion 8% suppressed the growth of the target weeds and had a treatment LD50 of 0.32 l/ha and an expected LD50 of 0.36 l/ha with a co-toxicity value of 1.125 (>1), so the mixed herbicides were synergistic.
11. B. MOHANAPRIYA, R. RAVIKESAVAN*, N. SENTHIL, K. IYANAR, A. SENTHIL AND K. R. V. SATHYA SHEELA [Root phenological and physiological response of maize (Zea mays L.) for adaptation under drought stress at vegetative and reproductive stages]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 287-294 (2023). Centre for Plant Breeding and Genetics Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641003, India *(e-mail: chithuragul@gmail.com)
ABSTRACT
Drought stress is known to negatively affect vegetative growth and biomass production, as well as the development of reproductive organs and yield characteristics in maize. The crop root systems are crucial for adaptability to various biotic and abiotic stresses, but studies addressing this are quite limited. The experiment was conducted simultaneously in both glasshouse and field condition during summer 2022 at TNAU, Coimbatore. The study was focussed to assess the root system architecture (RSA) of the drought tolerant and drought susceptible hybrids using PVC cylinders by imposing stress at V4 stage and root pulled out from the fieldby imposing stress at V14 stage. The results from the study showed that the significant variation was observed in both latter vegetative and mature root system under drought stress. Apart, the reduction in relative water content, SPAD values and increase of proline content were observed. The photosynthetic rate and gas exchange parameters were decreased upon exposure to drought stress. On considering, the hybrid N10-51 × DQL80 can accumulate osmolytes, maintaining tissue water potential and photosynthetic functionality for longer time when compared to other hybrids. This hybrid also exhibited the deep rooting ability with high yield under drought stress. Hence, it was identified as the drought tolerant hybrid and could be commercialized after testing their yield stability.
12. GAVIN GELDENHUYS* [Molecular characters of Dechloromonas, a bacterium associated with peanuts from Limpopo Province, South Africa, using 16S rDNA]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 295-297 (2023). Aquaculture Research Unit, School of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa *(e-mail: Gavin.geldenhuys@ul.ac.za)
ABSTRACT
The peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a legume crop grown mainly for its edible seeds. It is widely grown in the tropics and sub-tropics, important to both small and large commercial producers. Therefore, finding out the role of bacteria in the soil helps to understand the relationship between bacteria and crops. It is helpful for healthy soil. Dechloromonas is a gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, motile bacterium. Colonies on (aerobic) nutrient agar plates are circular and have a yellow colour. Dechloromonas includes several species that can be a risky pathogenic bacterium to the peanut plants, impacting the peanut yield. This study was conducted to isolate and identify Dechloromonas bacterium from a peanut field in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The molecular study was carried out in 2022 at the University of Limpopo to identify the bacterium associated with peanut fields from South Africa’s soils using 16S rDNA marker extracted using the Chelex method. The bacterium was identified as Dechloromonas. The Nblast analysis showed that South African Dechloromonas had 94% similarity with a population from South Korea (MK226314). Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as Dechloromonas in the same clade with highly supported 100 bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was identified using 16S rDNA properly. However, using other DNA markers to better understand Dechloromonas phylogeny was recommended.
13. ARUNA OLASEKAN ADEKIYA*, BOLAJOKO BISOLA AYORINDE, ELIZABETH TEMITOPE ALORI, CHARITY AREMU1 AND WUTEM SUNNY EJUE [Effects of lime on soil chemical characteristics and performance of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] on Oxic Haplustalf of a derived savanna ecology of Nigeria]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 298-306 (2023). Agriculture Programme, College of Agriculture Engineering and Science, Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State. Nigeria *(e-mail: adekiya2009@yahoo.com)
ABSTRACT
The use of lime in reducing acidity, increasing nodulation and grain yield of field cowpea in Nigeria had not been determined. Hence, field experiments were conducted in 2020 and 2021 cropping seasons at the Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Nigeria. The study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of lime on soil chemical characteristics, growth, nodulation, and yield of cowpea on tropical-derived savanna. The treatments in each year consisted of five levels (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 t/ha) of lime (CaCO3). The treatments were arranged in a RCBD and replicated three times. Findings showed that the application of lime improved soil chemical characteristics (pH, N, P, K, Ca, Na, Mg and CEC), growth, nodulation and yield of cowpea compared to the control. Lime application reduced acidity (H+Al3+) relative to the control. Lime increased the yield of cowpea from 0 to 2.5 t/ha after which there was a decrease. 2.5 t/ha lime increased pod weight of cowpea relative to the control by 51.2% in 2020 and 48.2% in 2021. 10 t/ha lime reduced pod weight of cowpea relative to the 2.5 t/ha by 237.62% in 2020 and 257.1% in 2021, the reduction in the yield of cowpea can best be explained by the presence of unfavourable soil pH conditions. Therefore, the optimum yield of the cowpea crop was achieved at 2.5 t/ha of lime for the agro ecological zone.
14. BAKHYTBEK AMIROV, AKSAULE SEYTMENBETOVA, KANAT KULYMBET AND SAMAT TANIRBERGENOV* [Modelling of fertilization on the photosynthetic and yield indicators of melon (Cucumis melo L.) under the saline soils of southern Kazakhstan]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 307-315 (2023). U. U. Uspanov Kazakh Research Institute of Soil Science and Agrochemistry 050060, al-Farabi ave., 75 B, Almaty, Kazakhstan *(e-mail: samat.soil.kz@gmail.com)
ABSTRACT
Recommendations on the use of generalized regional fertilizers for agricultural crops lead to low fertilizer efficiency, and an imbalance of plant nutrition while identifying economic and environmental problems. The use of innovative methods with the modelling of fertilizers with balanced doses of nutrients used based on the needs of crops, the potential of fertility and the degree of soil degradation should be the main condition for sustainable precision farming. Therefore, a field experiment to study the application of mineral fertilizers on melon was carried out under two saline backgrounds of light serozem at a farmer’s field, Maktaaral District, Kazakhstan during 2022. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 10 treatments: T1–Control (no fertilizer), T2–N120P80, T3–N120K80, T4–P80K80, T5–N120P80K80, T6–N60P80K80, T7–N180P80K80, T8–N120P120K80, T9–N120P80K120 and T10–N157K256 and N93K96 for a targeted yield of 30 and 20 t/ha on low and medium-saline soils, respectively, each replicated thrice. Ammonium nitrate (34%), double superphosphate (45%) and potassium sulfate (51%) were used as fertilizers. The study of photosynthetic productivity of plants showed that the accumulation of dry biomass (from 1.9 to 10.37 t/ha) and leaf area (from 7.8 to 26.5 m2/ha) adequately changed with changes in doses and ratios of fertilizers. On the low salinity background, high early yields were provided by T5 and T10-10.1 and 10.9 t/ha, against a medium saline background, they were lower than low saline background of 1.7 and 2.3 t/ha, respectively. When modelling the effect of fertilizers on the formation of an early melon crop, the unilateral action of nitrogen fertilizers, the interaction of nitrogen fertilizer with potash fertilizer and the interaction of phosphorus fertilizer with the soil salt concentration have been excluded from the equation as insignificant (P < 0.05).
15. MEHRNOUSH AMINISARTESHNIZI* [Molecular characterization of Burkholderia using 16S rDNA isolated from cabbage, Limpopo Province, South Africa]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 316-318 (2023). Aquaculture Research Unit, School of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa *(e-mail: mehrnoush.aminisarteshnizi@ul.ac.za)
ABSTRACT
Enterobacter species are gram-negative, motile, non-spore-forming, rod-shaped, facultatively anaerobic bacteria of the Burkholderiaceae family. Burkholderia includes several species, which can be risky pathogenic bacteria to vegetables, including cabbage, and therefore have an impact on the fresh production of cabbage. This study was conducted to isolate and identify Burkholderia from a cabbage field in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Therefore, this molecular study was conducted in 2023 at Limpopo University to identify the bacterium associated with cabbage filed from South Africa’s soils using 16S rDNA marker. The DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. The bacterium was identified as Burkholderia. The Nblast analysis showed that South African Burkholderia had 95% similarity with a population from South Africa (MG593873). Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as Burkholderia in the same clade with highly supported (100) bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was identified using 16S rDNA properly. However, using other DNA markers for a better understanding of Burkholderia phylogeny is recommended.
16. Agusalim Masulili*, Agus Suyanto, Setiawan, Mulyadi and Paiman [Effect of pineapple skin Bokashi on improvement of soil properties and growth of shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.)]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 319-325 (2023). Department of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture Panca Bhakti University, Pontianak 78113, West Kalimantan, Indonesia *(e-mail: agusalim@upb.ac.id)
ABSTRACT
Shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) is one of the horticultural crops that has high economic value, along with the increase in demand for this commodity. Alluvial is a type of soil with the potential for agricultural development, among others, and can be used to cultivate shallots. However, this soil has physical and chemical constraints that can inhibit plant growth, so it requires soil amendment treatment to improve it. This study aimed at determining the effect of a combination of cow dung compost and pineapple skin bokashi on the improvement of alluvial soil properties and the growth of shallot plants. The research used polybags and was carried out in the laboratory and greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, Panca Bhakti University, Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia, lasting 60 days from February-April 2022. The study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Each polybag was filled with 8 kg of soil and added the cow dung compost of 80 g. Then, the treatment of bokashi pineapple skin consisted of eight levels: 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 g/polybag. Each replication consisted of three plant samples so that the plant numbers were 72 units. The research results showed that the use of organic amendments of pineapple skin bokashi affected improving alluvial soil properties, which could reduce BD and increase soil pores, pH, organic C, P available and N total of soil. Furthermore, there was an increase in the growth of shallot plants as a result of the treatment given. The research findings showed that the best growth of shallots was achieved at the dose of 60 g/polybag pineapple skin bokashi. Furthermore, it can be recommended that further research be carried out on the effect of the combination of cow dung. compost and other organic and inorganic amendments.
17. MEHRNOUSH AMINISARTESHNIZI* [Phylogenetic position of Pratylenchus vulnus species (Nematoda: Pratylenchidae) associated with banana using mtDNA (cox1 region) from South Africa]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 326-329 (2023). Aquaculture Research Unit, School of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa *(e-mail: mehrnoush.aminisarteshnizi@ul.ac.za)
ABSTRACT
Plant parasitic nematodes are the main nematodes that live in the soil, causing yield loss for various crops. Pratylenchus species is endoparasite and known as root lesion nematode, therefore, can feed on the roots of the banana, resulting in necrosis and less production. This species is indicated to be highly risky to plants and must be identified correctly, and it is associated with bananas as one of the most important crops in Limpopo Province in South Africa. Therefore, this molecular study was conducted in 2023 at the Limpopo University to identify the Pratylenchus from South Africa’s soils using the cox1 region of mtDNA marker. The recovered nematode was extracted using the tray method, and then its DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. The nematode was identified as Pratylenchus vulnus. Afterwards, cox1 of mtDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode. The Nblast analysis based on the mtDNA showed that South African P. vulnus had 99% similarity (KY424096; KY424097) with Chinese populations. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as P. vulnus in the same clade with highly supported (100) bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was determined using cox1 of mtDNA; however, other rDNA markers, such as ITS, and rDNA, were recommended for a better understanding of Pratylenchus phylogeny.
18. D. T. SANTOSH*, SAGAR MAITRA AND K. N. TIWARI [Optimizing nutrients through drip fertigation and plastic mulch on the growth and yield in banana (Musa acuminata L.)]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 330-336 (2023). Center for Smart Agriculture Centurion University of Technology and Management Paralakhemundi-761 211, Odisha, India *(email: santosh.dt@cutm.ac.in)
ABSTRACT
Among various crops, fruits play an important role to offer dietary requirements. Banana is one of the vital fruits in India and ranks second in terms of area under cultivation. As banana needs enough of nutrients and water to ensure high productivity, proper agronomic management on the aspects are essential. Recently, the adoption of drip irrigation, plastic mulch and fertigation of water-soluble nutrients through drip irrigation have become popular in banana farming. Fruits play an important role in the dietary requirements. Among various fruits, banana is vital crop in India that ranks second in terms of area under cultivation. Banana needs sufficient nutrients and water to ensure high productivity as evidenced in the earlier research; hence, proper nutrient and management are essential. To investigate the effects of different levels of primary nutrients through drip fertigation and plastic mulch on the response of the Grand Naine cultivar of banana, a field experiment was conducted in the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India during Oct. 2019 to Apr. 2021. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with four fertigation levels, namely, 1.2 recommended dose of fertilizer (1.2 RDF), 1.0 RDF, 0.8 RDF and 0.6 RDF as the first factor and the second factor was with and without mulch (M1 and M0). Application of higher rate of nutrients (1.2 RDF) ensured better growth parameters and yield attributes. The highest banana yield was obtained under 120% RDF (i.e., 1.2 RDF) fertigation for both the main and ratoon crops, with a yield of 58.9 and 46.6 t/ha, respectively, however, it remained on par with 1.0 RDF and 0.8 RDF. Further, plastic mulch showed its significant superiority over non-mulched crop in terms of major growth parameters and yield of banana main crop; however, mulching did not significantly influence ratoon crop productivity. The study suggested 0.8 RDF and plastic mulching can be adopted in banana to obtain a higher yield and efficient nutrient utilization of applied nutrients in subtropical conditions of West Bengal.
19. GAVIN GELDENHUYS* [Comparison of two methods for DNA extraction from guava (Psidium guajava)]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 337-340 (2023). Aquaculture Research Unit School of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences University of Limpopo (Turfloop Campus), Private Bag X1106 Sovenga, 0727, South Africa *(e-mail: gavin.geldenhuys@ul.ac.za)
ABSTRACT
Psidium guajava is well known tropical tree which is abundantly grown for fruit. This fruit plant is consumed as food and folk medicine in sub-tropical areas worldwide due to its pharmacological activities. Guava finds a very important place in medical systems almost worldwide. This study was conducted in 2022 at the genetic lab, University of Limpopo to compare two different extraction methods for DNA from guava. The DNA from the guava was extracted using Chelex “method 1” (overnight incubation at 56°C) and “method 2” (Ten-minute incubation at 95°C) from the fresh leaves of the guava. The quantitative and qualitative parameters were measured using a spectrophotometer. PCR reactions with primers for 28S were used on all samples to confirm and evaluate the extracted DNA. The results showed that the highest quality of extracted DNA was in “method 2” (1.68-1.82). The quantitative and qualitative tests for PCR reaction showed that the DNA extracted using “method 2” had a better quality of DNA than “method 1”. In conclusion, both methods worked, but method two showed better results.
20. E. A. Korneeva* [Resource-saving efficiency of agroforestry in areas prone to deflation and desertification]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 341-345 (2023). Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology Complex Melioration and Protective Afforestation Russian Academy of Sciences, 400062, Volgograd, 97, University Ave., Russia *(e-mail: korneeva.eva@list.ru)
ABSTRACT
Natural disasters and climate change have significantly reduced the land fund of Russia. In recent years, it has decreased several times. Among the various means of land reclamation, agroforestry is singled out as the most effective means of preventing deflation and desertification of agricultural land. Protective forest stands in arid areas dramatically change the environmental conditions of the environment, in particular the properties and fertility of soils. Forest reclamation increases the forest-growing effect and crop yields. To study further on this, this study was conducted during 2021-22 at the Laboratory of Mathematical Modelling of the Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology, Complex Melioration and Protective Afforestation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, located in the Volgograd region (Russia), to reveal the resource-saving role of forest strips. To do this, we compared a typical variant of agroforestry and the optimal variant of agroforestry, which ensured sustainable land use. These options were used to study the costs that are necessary for the creation and cultivation of forest plantations and their potential benefits in the form of prevented damage from deflation and desertification of land. A comparison of the resource-saving benefits obtained through forest-reclamation of arable land with the costs required for this arrangement showed that the benefits of agroforestry in protecting land from degradation were several times higher than the costs and indicated the feasibility of measures in the region.
21. ALIYA KHUZHAKHMETOVA* AND DARIA SAPRONOVA** [Structural and functional characteristics of the leaves of economically valuable plants in arid environments]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 346-351 (2023). Federal Research Centre of Agroecology, Complex Melioration and Forest Reclamations of the Russian Academy of Science (Federal Research Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences) 97 Universitetskiy Prospekt, 400062, Volgograd, Russia (e-mail: *avfanc@yandex.ru; **sapronova.darya@mail.ru)
ABSTRACT
The difficult forest conditions of the Volgograd region determine the relevance of research in the field of agroforestry. For the selection and use of tree species in plantations during the arrangement of agricultural land, it is necessary to identify the structural and functional features of the leaves, which are reliable indicators of the mechanism of plant adaptation to stress factors. The experiment was set up during June to September 2022 under field and laboratory conditions with the participation of the dendrological collections of the Nizhnevolzhskaya station for tree species breeding, a branch of the Federal Scientific Center for Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (50°078N, 45°370E). The objects of research are shrubs of different geographical origin: Berberis vulgaris L., Berberis heteropoda Schrenk., Ligustrum vulgare L., Cotinus coggygria Scop., Mahonia aquifolium Nutt., Corylus avellana L. and Ribes aureum Pursh. An optical method was used to assess the permeability of the epidermis of native mature leaves of the middle tier of the crown. The dynamics and variation of the content of photosynthetic pigments has been established. In Ligustrum vulgare, Mahonia aquifolium and Cotinus coggygria, a higher content of chlorophylls and a smaller number of palisade mesophyll cells were found than in heliophytes. The species specificity of the structural features of the palisade mesophyll, taking into account the ecological groups of shrubs, was revealed, as well as a positive correlation between the number of cells and the amount of chlorophyll of the palisade mesophyll in Cotinus coggygria (0.87) and Ribes aureum (0.85), Corylus avellana (0.63). The conducted studies allow obtaining new data on the adaptive capabilities of shrubs under the action of stress factors for their selection and further practical application in the field of agroforestry.
22. ALIYA KHUZHAKHMETOVA* AND KRISTINA MELNIK [Evaluation of the impact of Gleditsia triacanthos seed treatment methods on reproduction]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 352-356 (2023). Federal Research Centre of Agroecology, Complex Melioration and Forest Reclamations of the Russian Academy of Science (Federal Research Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences) 97 Universitetskiy Prospekt, 400062, Volgograd, Russia *(e-mail: avfanc@yandex.ru)
ABSTRACT
Representatives of the genus Gleditsia, valuable trees for agroforestry in the south-east of the European part of Russia, form productive forest strips. In regions with difficult soil and climatic conditions, good plant development at the initial stage is important. The introduced species Gleditsia triacanthos has characterized by a high degree of drought resistance and stable fruiting. The main source material for reproduction is seeds, but the structural features of the seed coat affect the germination and development of Gleditsia seedlings. The aim was to assess the impact of processing methods on the dormancy of seeds with a hard shell and the growth of seedlings. Under laboratory conditions at the Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences in the period from November 17 to December 1, 2022, an experiment was conducted to study the effect of methods of treatment of seeds of Gleditsia triacantha (2022 year of fruit harvest) . It has been established that the chemical method (H2SO4 concentration 95.72%, density 1.895 g/cm3, 1757 g/l) is more effective, because swelling (after 24 h-96%) and the appearance of hypocotyl (after 72 h–39.7%) in seeds and other phases of seedling formation of Gleditsia triacanthos. The recommended methods of seed pretreatment ensured mass sprouts (76-78% on day 7) and increased the yield of seedlings (55.0-61.5%). Research findings contribute to the search for techniques and methods for the development of low-carbon production technologies.
23. E. V. KALMYKOVA*, P. A. KUZMIN AND K. A. MELNIK [Growth and development of seedlings of Robinia pseudoacacia for the production of planting material in conditions of chestnut soils of south of the Russian Federation]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 357-365 (2023). Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology, Complex Melioration and Protective Afforestation of the Russian Academy of Sciences” Federal Research Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences Volgograd, Russian Federation *(e-mail: kalmukova-ev@vfanc.ru)
ABSTRACT
Robinia (R. pseudoacacia) is distinguished by a high level of ecological plasticity and is able to grow in different agroforestry areas under conditions of chestnut soils in southern Russia. The research was carried out in cluster collection sites of the Federal Research Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (Lower Volga Station) and on the basis of the Volgograd Forestry State Educational Institution according to generally accepted methods in 2022. The purpose of the research was to analyze the technological features of the dynamics of growth and development of seedlings of R. pseudoacacia, to conduct a bioinformatic analysis of the gene sequence and to assess the prospects of their use for the production of planting material. Physiological indicators for assessing the Robinia generic complex stability have been identified. The economically valuable signs identified were morphological characteristics to the method of the Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, features of nitrogen fixation and the pigment complex. All the studied seedlings of R. pseudoacacia were at a sufficient level of nitrogen nutrition. On the territory of the Lower Volga station, plants formed a larger growth and biomass with the largest number of nodules than Robinia seedlings on the territory of the Volgograd Forestry State Budgetary Institution. However, the mass of nodules on the roots decreased with an increase in the humus content of the experimental site in Kamyshin (0.93%), which was explained by favourable weather conditions for the development of this plant during the growing season of seedlings and a sufficient amount of nutrients for the formation of these nodules – nitrogen and its compounds. This plantation planting material Robinia pseudoacacia (L.) had the property of adapting to the type of soil, thereby being a potential breed for growing in protective plantings and landscaping plantings of various functional purposes on chestnut soils of Russian Federation.
24. V. A. Vedeneeva* and A. V. Koshelev [Analysis of the seasonal dynamics of the NDVI index of potato agrocenosis in the conditions of the dry steppe zone of the Volgograd region]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 366-372 (2023). Federal State Budget Scientific Institution “Federal Scientific Centre of Agroecology, Complex Melioration and Protective Afforestation of the Russian Academy of Sciences” (FSC of Agroecology RAS), 400062 Volgograd, Russia *(e-mail: varusha-f@mail.ru)
ABSTRACT
Timely assessment of the state of agrocenoses is very important in agricultural production. In this regard, geographic information systems (GIS) are widely used, since they make it possible to collect, process, store and transmit data on the studied territorial objects. In particular, the data on plant development obtained from satellite images showing the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) changes are widely used in agriculture. Studies were conducted over two years, in 2020 in the village Tumak Sredneakhtubinsky district of Volgograd Region and in 2021 in the village of Mayskoye, near the city of Volgograd. The changes in the NDVI index were compared during different timings of potato growing seasons. The NDVI index readings obtained with the OneSoil software product were synchronized in time and location with the ground surveys. The contrast NDVI was used to determine the heterogeneity of the surface of the crop being grown. The results of the study of dynamics of values of vegetation index NDVI for potatoes grown in the dry steppe zone of the Volgograd region were presented. It was established that during the “germination – budding” period, the NDVI value increased from 0.12 to 0.51 in 2020 and from 0.12 to 0.72 in 2021. During the flowering period, the index value increased on average to 0.64 over the research period. The maximum value of the index was observed during the period of “tops growth cessation – tops wilting” and amounted to 0.75. Further, the index value decreased and in the period of full ripeness of potato tubers, it was equal to 0.6 on an average over the research period. The use of the contrast NDVI determined the heterogeneity of the index values distribution more clearly and completely, which allowed us to identify problem zones in a particular area for taking prompt measures on reduction or elimination of this heterogeneity.
25. E. A. KORNEEVA* [Role of agroforestry in increasing the economic fertility of arable lands in arid regions]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 373-377 (2023). Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology Complex Melioration and Protective Afforestation Russian Academy of Sciences, 400062, Volgograd, 97, University Ave., Russia *(e-mail: korneeva.eva@list.ru)
ABSTRACT
The solution to the problem of agricultural producers’ rational and effective use of land resources depends heavily on the economic evaluation of firms’ resource potential. One of the main resources of enterprises in the production process is fixed capital or fixed production assets, of which protective forest stands are an integral part. Solving the tasks of increasing the economic fertility of arable lands in arid areas, provides a significant increase in agricultural production. In order to study this issue in more detail, a study was conducted during 2021 at the laboratory of Mathematical Modelling of the Federal Scientific Center for Agroecology, Integrated Melioration and Protective Afforestation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, located in the Volgograd region (Russia), to identify the role of protective forest plantations in increasing the economic fertility of arable land. To do this, we conducted a score assessment of its main indicators – yield and net income from the sale of wheat – for various variants of land objects with open and forested spaces within the main natural zones of the Volgograd region (Russia). The comparison showed that under all spatial-zonal scenarios, forested land has a much greater potential for improving the fertility of arable land than open land. At the same time, the benefits received from the forest reclamation of fields are many times higher than the costs of this event, which indicates the economic feasibility of measures in the region.
26. KYOUNG-SUN SEO AND KYEONG WON YUN* [Evaluation of in vitro antimicrobial activity of Camellia sinensis leaves collected at different time of harvest]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 378-383 (2023). Jangheung Research Institute for Mushroom Industry Jangheung 59338, Republic of Korea *(e-mail: ykw@scnu.ac.kr)
ABSTRACT
The amounts of chemicals in green tea depend on the time of harvest. In Korea, there is a tendency to harvest tea leaves to make green tea from around April 20 to the end of May. Therefore, we investigated the influence of harvest time of Camellia sinensis leaves on antimicrobial activity. The ethyl acetate and water fraction of ethanol extract from C. sinensis leaves collected every two weeks (April 30, May 14 and May 28, 2021) were tested against 4 Gram-positive and 3 Gram-negative bacteria and one yeast. Antimicrobial activity was screened for clear zone and minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) values determined by disc diffusion method. The ethyl acetate fraction was potentially effective against Methillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhimurium at all the collection dates. The results showed the diameter of clear zone was proportional to the concentration of tested fractions. The antimicrobial activity of tea leaves was different by collection dates, the quantitative difference was not big. The MIC value of ethyl acetate fraction of tea leaves for Bacillus cereus and B. subtilis was 0.5 mg/ml, on the other hand, the MIC value of the water fraction of tea leaves for B. subtilis, MRSA, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Salmonella typhimurium was 30.0 mg/ml, regardless of collection date. The antimicrobial properties of C. sinensis leaves encouraged an innovative potential application in agricultural, pharmaceutical and food fields.
27. HAPPY BANGO AND MABOKO S. MPHOSI* [Effect of increased fertilization on the phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity of Jatropha zeyheri tea under greenhouse conditions]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 384-390 (2023). Limpopo Agro-Food Technology Station University of Limpopo, Private Bag X 1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa *(e-mail: maboko.mphosi@ul.ac.za)
ABSTRACT
Tea fertilization is one of the key factors influencing tea’s physiological, physical and chemical qualities. However, the influence of NPK fertilizer on phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity of Jatropha zeyheri indigenous tea has not been documented. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing whether different fertilizer application rates would affect the phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity of J. zeyheri tea leaves under greenhouse conditions. Six treatments constituting NPK fertilizer rates (0, 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32 g) were arranged in a randomized complete block design, with five replications. After 130 days, leaves were harvested and oven-dried for 72 h at a temperature of 60°C. The dried leaves were ground through a 1 mm sieve using a grinder before analysis. After laboratory preparations, phytochemicals and antioxidant activity were analyzed using the UV-visible spectrophotometer. Data were subjected to ANOVA using the Statistix 10.0 software. Treatments had a highly significant effect (P 0.01) on antioxidant activity and total flavonoid content contributing 46 and 73% in total treatment variation (TTV), respectively. In contrast, NPK fertilizer had a significant effect (P 0.05) on total phenols and tannins, contributing 71 and 59% in TTV, respectively. Jatropha zeyheri tea leaves antioxidants and phytoconstituents exhibited positive quadratic relations with increasing fertilizer levels. Fertilizer requirements for phytoconstituents and antioxidant activity were optimized at 3.97 g fertilizer/plant. In conclusion, antioxidant activity, total phenol, total tannin and flavonoid contents were affected by increasing NPK fertilizer rates.
28. L. P. RYBASHLYKOVA*, S. YU. TURKO AND M. V. VLASENKO [The effect of natural moisture availability on the yield of Agropyron in arid conditions of the south of Russia]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 391-398 (2023). Federal Research Centre of Agroecology, Amelioration and Protective Afforestation of Russian Academy of Sciences 400062 Volgograd, Russia *(e-mail: Rybashlykova-l@vfanc.ru)
ABSTRACT
The Volgograd right bank belongs to a very arid natural and climatic zone (HTC 0.3-0.7), the main limiting factor of which is the moisture supply of plants. Therefore, this study was aimed at establishing the influence of the moisture availability of the region and meteorological factors, as well as the timing and methods of sowing on the yield of Agropyron cristatum and Agropyron fragile in arid agro-climatic conditions on light chestnut salty soils of southern Russia. The research was carried out at the experimental production field of the Research Centre of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences in the period from 2019 to 2022. Field experiments, records, analyses and statistical processing were carried out in accordance with the methodology of field and agrotechnical research with forage crops. Methods of mathematical statistics of the STATGRAPHICS program and the MatLab package were used to process and analyze the results obtained. A close correlation was noted between the yield of Agropyron and moisture reserves (r=0.935) at the autumn sowing period. A close positive relationship (r=0.859-0.856) was noted with the ordinary and cross-seeding method between the moisture reserves in the soil and the crop yield, which indicates a high value of moisture availability during the formation of the phytomass of the crop. Close links between the hydrothermal coefficient (HTC) of the growing season and the yield of Agropyron were noted in April (r=0.960), when plants grew intensively and required sufficient moisture. A promising species can be called Agropyron fragile, the yield of which is 5.0-8.4% higher than the yield of Agropyron cristatum. Moreover, Agropyron produces the highest yields in the third year of life (3.16-3.30 t/ha).
29. MEHRNOUSH AMINISARTESHNIZI* [Phylogenetic position of Xiphinema americanum species (Nematoda: Longidoridae) associated with macadamia using mtDNA (cox1 region) from South Africa]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 399-402 (2023). Aquaculture Research Unit School of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa *(e-mail: mehrnoush.aminisarteshnizi@ul.ac.za)
ABSTRACT
Plant parasitic nematodes belonging to the family Longidoridae live in the soil, causing crop yield loss. Nematodes of the genus Xiphinema, commonly called dagger nematodes, parasitize various plants. Many of these nematodes, the majority of them belonging to the Xiphinema americanum group, can transfer viruses to plants during feeding and cause yield loss. This species is indicated to be highly risky to plants and must be identified correctly, and it is associated with macadamia as one of the most important crops in Limpopo Province in South Africa. Therefore, this molecular study was conducted in 2023 at the Limpopo University to identify the Xiphinema from South Africa’s soils using the cox1 region of mtDNA marker. The recovered nematode was extracted using the tray method, and then its DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. The nematode was identified as Xiphinema americanum. Afterwards, cox1 of mtDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode. The Nblast analysis based on the mtDNA showed South African X. americanum had 99% similarity (AM086690) with the South African population. Additionally, it showed 99% similarity with a population of X. americanum (KX263061) from the USA. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as X. americanum in the same clade with highly supported 100 bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was determined using cox1 of mtDNA; however, other rDNA markers, such as ITS and rDNA, were recommended to understand Xiphinema phylogeny better.
30. P. LOGESHKUMAR*, R. NALINI, A. JOSEPH RAJKUMAR, P. CHANDRAMANI, M. L. MINI, R. DURAI SINGH AND M. MURUGAN [Flight activity of invasive rugose spiralling whitefly (Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin) and bondars nesting whitefly (Paraleyrodes bondari Perrachi) in coconut orchards]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 403-406 (2023). Department of Agricultural Entomlogy Agricultural College and Research Institute TNAU, Madurai-625 104 (Tamil Nadu), India *(e-mail: logeshkumar.raj@gmail.com)
ABSTRACT
Monitoring and knowing flight activities in whiteflies are key information for applying any management strategies. The adult Rugose Spiralling Whitefly (RSW) flight activity was most intense in the morning after dawn (0600 to 0700 ) when 13.5 numbers were captured in the yellow sticky sheets placed in the Southeast, while there was a minor peak of adult RSW in the evening. The Bondars Nesting Whitefly (BNW) was notably different in both directions; the maximum number of whiteflies was captured in the traps placed in the Southeast between 0600 and 0700 (69 adults), while very few whiteflies were captured in the Northwest. The Bondars Nesting Whitefly flight was quite comparatively low in both directions during the dusk and sunset hours.
31. CEPPY NASAHI*, ARIS RIZKY YUSUF, SRI HARTATI, DENNY KURNIADIE AND SYIFA NABILAH SUBAKTI-PUTRI [Yeast potential in controlling Aspergillus sp. causing fruit rot disease in dekopon oranges (Citrus reticulata ‘Shiranui’)]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 407-415 (2023). Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Sumedang, 45363, Indonesia *(e-mail: c.nasahi@unpad.ac.id)
ABSTRACT
Fruit rot disease caused by Aspergillus sp. is a post-harvest disease in citrus. Yeast has the potential as a biocontrol agent against airborne pathogens. This study aimed at testing the potential of yeast Aureobasidium pullulans Dmg 11 DEP, Rhodoturula minuta Dmg 16 BEP, and Candida tropicalis Lm 13 BE in controlling fruit rot disease caused by Aspergillus sp. on dekopon orange. The experimental stages consisted of testing the potential of yeast in suppressing Aspergillus sp. with five treatments and four replications and in vivo six treatments and four replications on dekopon oranges using a completely randomized design (CRD). The study was conducted at the Plant Protection Biotechnology Laboratory, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia, from January to July 2022. Antagonism and interaction tests were conducted in vitro by dual culture method by placing the Aspergillus sp. alongside the yeast (A. pullulans Dmg 11 DEP, R. minuta Dmg 16 BEP and C. tropicalis Lm 13 BE). Observations were made on the yeast effect on the growth of Aspergillus sp. and suppression of Aspergillus sp. rot disease in dekopon orange fruit. The test results showed that the yeast isolate could inhibit the growth of Aspergillus sp. in vitro with a 22.5-42.2% inhibition percentage in the dual culture test and 30.89-46.89% in the volatile compound production test. The yeast also suppressed the incidence of Aspergillus rot disease with an inhibition percentage of 21.06-51.98%. Aureobasidium pullulans Dmg 11 DEP recorded the highest percentage inhibition (51.98%) of Aspergillus sp.
32. GULNUR SULEIMANOVA*, ZAGIPA SAPAKHOVA, BAUYRZHAN KALIBAYEV, AIGUL MADENOVA AND GULNAZ NIZAMDINOVA [Molecular screening for Fusarium oxysporum resistance genes in chickpea]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 416-427 (2023). Kazakh National Agrarian Research University, Almaty, Kazakhstan *(e-mail: gulnur.suleimanova@kaznaru.edu.kz)
ABSTRACT
Root rot and wilt (Fusarium oxysporum) are the most common pathogens among grain legumes, which cause yield losses of 10 to 40%. Wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceris is a devastating disease in chickpea growing area. In this study, 50 chickpea genotypes were studied to identify genetic sources of resistance to the disease in 2021 and 2022 vegetative seasons. The studies were carried out against the natural background of the experimental field at the Saimasai Agrotechnopark site of the Kazakh National Agrarian Research University, and the studies were carried out against an artificial background at the experimental site of Agropark Ontustik LLP located in the village of Zhalpaksay, Almaty region, Karasai district. The resistance and susceptibility of the plants to F. oxysporum were determined four weeks after artificial inoculation. In field trials, 70% of the genotypes were resistant to wilt and the remaining 30% showed susceptibility to the disease with varying degrees. Molecular methods were used to identify genetic sources of resistance. In the molecular analysis, all 50 genotypes were screened using the primers CaSTMS2, TA200, TA194, TA72, TA46, TR29 and TR7, which are closely related markers to resistance genes. Marker selection can identify resistant genes when screening chickpea genotypes for this pathogen. As a result of screening, resistant chickpea genotypes have been identified that can be used in the breeding program to develop F. oxysporum resistant chickpea varieties.
33. Gavin Geldenhuys* [Efficacy of moringa (Moringa oleifera) formulations on suppression of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne javanica) and growth of eggplant (Solanum melongena)]. Res. Crop. 24 (2): 428-431 (2023). Aquaculture Research Unit, School of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa *(e-mail: gavin.geldenhuys@ul.ac.za)
ABSTRACT
Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is one of the premier vegetables and is widely cultivated. One of the most important reasons for reduced yield of eggplant is root-knot (Meloidogyne species) nematode. So, it is important to control this pest; therefore, an investigation was conducted in 2022 at the Aquaculture Research Unit lab to evaluate the effectiveness of moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) application in controlling root-knot nematode in eggplant. During this study, Meloidogyne javanica (Treub) was identified from the rhizosphere soil samples. Fresh leaf extracts of moringa, including positive control (fenamiphos), were investigated in vivo for efficacy against M. javanica in root and soil. Seedlings of eggplant were inoculated with 3000 eggs and second-stage juveniles (J2) of M. javanica in pot trials, with treatments comprising fresh leaf extracts of moringa (M. oleifera) in a series of concentrations. Fifty-six days after inoculation, the Phyto nematicide had reduced eggs and J2 in soil by 62-89%, gall number by 58-87%, and gall index by 35-87%. The best treatment was moringa (80 ppm) which was significantly superior to moringa (40 ppm) and moringa (60 ppm) (P < 0.05). However, fenamiphos had no significant difference (P > 0.05). The results showed that moringa (80 ppm) was the best treatment for controlling root-knot nematode in eggplant.
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