Journal Description
Agronomy
Agronomy
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on agronomy and agroecology published monthly online by MDPI. The Spanish Society of Plant Physiology (SEFV) is affiliated with Agronomy and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubAg, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Agronomy) / CiteScore - Q1 (Agronomy and Crop Science)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 15.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Agronomy include: Seeds, Agrochemicals, Grasses and Crops.
Impact Factor:
3.7 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
Effects of Organic Amendments on the Morphology and Chemical Composition of Black Mustard (Sinapis nigra L.) Grown on Soil Contaminated with Copper
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 995; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050995 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
The present study aimed to determine the influence of organic amendments (OAs) on neutralizing the harmful effect of copper (Cu) on black mustard (Sinapis nigra L.). In a pot experiment, three levels of copper pollution were used: 200, 400, and 600 mg
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The present study aimed to determine the influence of organic amendments (OAs) on neutralizing the harmful effect of copper (Cu) on black mustard (Sinapis nigra L.). In a pot experiment, three levels of copper pollution were used: 200, 400, and 600 mg Cu kg−1, against a control without Cu. The soil was amended with three types of OAs: pine bark (PB), peat moss (PM), and cattle manure (CM). Our research showed that plant condition depends on the Cu content in the soil. Increasing soil contamination significantly affected the plant yield, leaf greenness index, and dry matter content. The type of OA had no significant effect on the condition of black mustard (BM); however, each had a different effect on neutralizing the harmful effects of Cu. CM reduced Cu accumulation, PM showed no effect, while PB contributed to a significant increase in Cu content in BM plants. The chemical composition of BM depended on the Cu content in the soil. With increased soil contamination with Cu, the contents of Ntot, K, Mg, Ca, and Na in BM increased, while the content of P decreased. In terms of mitigating the harmful effects, CM was more beneficial than PM and PB. Among the analyzed OAs, CM, and PM contributed to Cu immobilization, while PB promoted Cu mobilization in contaminated soils.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Organic Amendments in Agricultural Production—Volume II)
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Synergistic Effects of Humic Acid, Biochar-Based Microbial Agent, and Vermicompost on the Dry Sowing and Wet Emergence Technology of Cotton in Saline–Alkali Soils, Xinjiang, China
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Ge Li, Yuyang Shan, Yungang Bai, Weibo Nie, Qian Wang, Jianghui Zhang, Hongbo Liu, Yu Ding, Xiaoyan Wang and Hongqin Lu
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 994; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050994 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Soil amendments such as humic acid (HA), a biochar-based microbial agent (M), and vermicompost (V) can improve soil quality and promote crop growth. However, it remains unclear whether the co-application of the three soil amendments (HMV) has a synergistic effect on alleviating soil
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Soil amendments such as humic acid (HA), a biochar-based microbial agent (M), and vermicompost (V) can improve soil quality and promote crop growth. However, it remains unclear whether the co-application of the three soil amendments (HMV) has a synergistic effect on alleviating soil quality deterioration obstacles caused by dry sowing and wet emergence technology in Xinjiang cotton fields. A three-year field experiment was conducted in saline–alkali soils using plastic-film-mulched drip irrigation in Xinjiang, China. Through the orthogonal experiment method, the application amounts of HA, M and V were 75 kg ha−1, 75 kg ha−1 and 225 kg ha−1 respectively in 2021. In 2022, three application amount gradients were used for HA, M and V: 60 kg ha−1, 90 kg ha−1 and 120 kg ha−1 respectively. In 2023, the application amounts of HA, M, and V were 60 kg ha−1, 120 kg ha−1, and 120 kg ha−1. It should be pointed out that V contains HA in the range of 20–35%. This study aimed to explore the improvement effect of a single or combined application of HA, M, and V on soil quality and cotton emergence rate using dry sowing and wet emergence technology in Xinjiang cotton fields. The results showed that the single and combined applications of HA, M, and V improved the soil quality and water–heat–salt environment of the cultivated layer. In the combined application, the cotton seedling emergence rate and yield increased by 1.9–22.8% and 7.0–54.1%. Therefore, it is recommended to jointly apply HA, M, and V to promote cotton seedling emergence and increase yield using dry sowing and wet emergence technology in Xinjiang cotton fields.
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(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)
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Appropriate Application of Organic Fertilizer Can Effectively Improve Soil Environment and Increase Maize Yield in Loess Plateau
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Yingying Xing, Yuan Li, Fan Zhang and Xiukang Wang
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 993; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050993 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Fertilization has a significant impact on soil nutrients and microbiological properties, which, in turn, affect crop yield. However, the specific effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on soil fertility and microbial characteristics in maize fields, as well as the key soil factors influencing
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Fertilization has a significant impact on soil nutrients and microbiological properties, which, in turn, affect crop yield. However, the specific effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on soil fertility and microbial characteristics in maize fields, as well as the key soil factors influencing changes in crop yield, remain largely unknown. A study was conducted over two years (2021–2022) to investigate the impact of various nitrogen fertilization rates and types on maize yield and soil properties in the Loess Plateau. Field experiments with five nitrogen levels (60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 kg N ha−1) and two fertilizer types (chemical and organic) were conducted. The optimal yield was achieved with 150 kg N ha−1, significantly surpassing that of other treatments by 4.5−45.7%. Compared with the organic fertilizers, the chemical fertilizers increased soil salt and catalase levels, with soil nitrate and ammonium content being higher at the jointing stage but lower at maturity. Organic fertilization improved soil potassium, organic matter, urease and phosphatase activities, and microbial populations. Yield correlated with several soil indicators, including salt content, nitrate, available potassium, and enzyme activities. Notably, soil nitrate also correlated with actinomyces quantity. A principal component analysis showed that the organic fertilizer was more beneficial to soil health than the chemical fertilizer. Consequently, this study recommends 150 kg N ha−1 of organic fertilizer for sustainable maize farming and soil health in China’s northwest arid region, providing a theoretical framework for agricultural practices.
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(This article belongs to the Section Agroecology Innovation: Achieving System Resilience)
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From Plants to Pixels: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Identifying Sericea Lespedeza in Field-Based Studies
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Aftab Siddique, Kyla Cook, Yasmin Holt, Sudhanshu S. Panda, Ajit K. Mahapatra, Eric R. Morgan, Jan A. van Wyk and Thomas H. Terrill
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050992 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
The increasing use of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) has brought about a significant transformation in numerous fields, such as image categorization and identification. In the development of a CNN model to classify images of sericea lespedeza [SL; Lespedeza cuneata (Dum-Cours) G. Don] from
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The increasing use of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) has brought about a significant transformation in numerous fields, such as image categorization and identification. In the development of a CNN model to classify images of sericea lespedeza [SL; Lespedeza cuneata (Dum-Cours) G. Don] from weed images, four architectures were explored: CNN model variant 1, CNN model variant 2, the Visual Geometry Group (VGG16) model, and ResNet50. CNN model variant 1 (batch normalization with adjusted dropout method) demonstrated 100% validation accuracy, while variant 2 (RMSprop optimization with adjusted learning rate) achieved 90.78% validation accuracy. Pre-trained models, like VGG16 and ResNet50, were also analyzed. In contrast, ResNet50’s steady learning pattern indicated the potential for better generalization. A detailed evaluation of these models revealed that variant 1 achieved a perfect score in precision, recall, and F1 score, indicating superior optimization and feature utilization. Variant 2 presented a balanced performance, with metrics between 86% and 93%. VGG16 mirrored the behavior of variant 2, both maintaining around 90% accuracy. In contrast, ResNet50’s results revealed a conservative approach for class 0 predictions. Overall, variant 1 stood out in performance, while both variant 2 and VGG16 showed balanced results. The reliability of CNN model variant 1 was highlighted by the significant accuracy percentages, suggesting potential for practical implementation in agriculture. In addition to the above, a smartphone application for the identification of SL in a field-based trial showed promising results with an accuracy of 98–99%. The conclusion from the above is that a CNN model with batch normalization has the potential to play a crucial role in the future in redefining and optimizing the management of undesirable vegetation.
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(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)
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Method for Monitoring Wheat Growth Status and Estimating Yield Based on UAV Multispectral Remote Sensing
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Junke Zhu, Yumeng Li, Chunying Wang, Ping Liu and Yubin Lan
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 991; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050991 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
An efficient and accurate estimation of wheat growth and yield is important for wheat assessment and field management. To improve the accuracy and stability of wheat growth and yield estimation, an estimation method based on a genetic algorithm-improved support vector regression (GA-SVR) algorithm
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An efficient and accurate estimation of wheat growth and yield is important for wheat assessment and field management. To improve the accuracy and stability of wheat growth and yield estimation, an estimation method based on a genetic algorithm-improved support vector regression (GA-SVR) algorithm was proposed in this study. The correlation analysis between vegetation indices calculated from spectral data and wheat growth phenotypes and yields was performed to obtain the optimal combination of vegetation indices with high correlation and good estimation performance. At the same time, the optimal model for wheat growth monitoring was screened and constructed in experiments with 12 wheat varieties and 3 gradient nitrogen fertilizer application levels. Then, the yield estimation model was established and its applicability was verified under different nitrogen fertilizer application levels. The results showed that the constructed models for the leaf area index, plant height, and yield estimation performed well, with coefficients of determination of 0.82, 0.71, and 0.70, and root mean square errors of 0.09, 2.7, and 68.5, respectively. This study provided an effective UAV remote sensing technique for monitoring wheat growth status and estimating yield. This study provides an effective unmanned aerial remote sensing technique for monitoring wheat growth and estimating yield, and provides technical support for wheat yield assessment and field management.
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(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)
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Different Land-Use Effects on Soil Aggregates and Aggregate-Associated Organic Carbon in Eastern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
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Yongkun Zhang, Ying Li, Zhanming Ma, Zilong Cui, Haiyan Sheng and Runjie Li
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050990 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Land use changes modify soil properties, including aggregate structure, and thus, profoundly affect soil quality and health. However, the effects of land use changes originating from alpine grassland on soil aggregates and aggregate-associated organic carbon have received little attention. Soil aggregate fraction, aggregate-associated
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Land use changes modify soil properties, including aggregate structure, and thus, profoundly affect soil quality and health. However, the effects of land use changes originating from alpine grassland on soil aggregates and aggregate-associated organic carbon have received little attention. Soil aggregate fraction, aggregate-associated organic carbon and relevant influencing factors were determined at 0–20, 20–40 cm soil layers for alpine grassland, cropland and abandoned land in the eastern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP), and their relationships were analyzed by partial least square regression (PLSR). Results showed the following: (1) conversion from alpine grassland to cropland resulted in a significant decline macroaggregate fraction (R0.25), mean weight diameter (MWD), mean weight diameter (GMD), soil organic carbon (SOC), and microaggregate-associated SOC; (2) almost all aggregate stability indexes, SOC, and aggregate-associated SOCs were significantly positively correlated with silt and glomalin, suggesting that the binding of fine particles (silt) with the organic cementing agent (glomalin) was probably a key mechanism of SOC formation and aggregate stability in the studied region; (3) compared with biotic factors such as SOC, glomalin and root biomass, abiotic factors including silt and sand can better predict aggregate stability and SOC fraction using the PLSR model. The above results indicated that the conversion of alpine grassland to other land use types in high altitude areas would destroy soil structure and decrease soil organic carbon content, and then reduce soil quality.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Influence of Land Use Patterns on Soil Physical Quality)
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Precise Control and Prevention Methods for Whitefly in Greenhouse Vegetables
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Xiaoyan Dai, Qingcai Lin, Yan Liu, Ruijuan Wang, Long Su, Zhenjuan Yin, Shan Zhao, Feng Zhang, Hao Chen, Li Zheng, Yifan Zhai and Lisheng Zhang
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050989 - 8 May 2024
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Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood (greenhouse whitefly) are worldwide polyphagous pests of economic importance that damage solanaceous vegetables. Neonicotinoid pesticides and parasitoid Encarsia formmosa Gahan are the main management strategies applied worldwide, but precise control methods in greenhouse vegetables need to be developed to reduce
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Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood (greenhouse whitefly) are worldwide polyphagous pests of economic importance that damage solanaceous vegetables. Neonicotinoid pesticides and parasitoid Encarsia formmosa Gahan are the main management strategies applied worldwide, but precise control methods in greenhouse vegetables need to be developed to reduce the application amounts of pesticides and improve the suppression of whitefly populations. Therefore, we assessed the indoor acute toxicities and risk assessment of neonicotinoids for T. vaporariorum and E. formosa adults and pupae and compared the control effects of E. formosa and neonicotinoid acetamiprid. According to the acute toxicities results, most neonicotinoid insecticides were more toxic to E. formosa than T. vaporariorum, and pupae were much less susceptible than adults of both species. Moreover, acetamiprid had a low risk effect on E. formosa. Sole application of E. formosa and acetamiprid could effectively control T. vaporariorum, but their combined application resulted in antagonistic effects on the control of T. vaporariorum. The results showed that a combined application or sole use of E. formosa could reduce the use of insecticides, slow down the development of insecticide resistance in whiteflies, and improve the efficiency of controlling the growth of whitefly populations in greenhouse vegetable production.
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Soybean CEP6 Signaling Peptides Positively Regulate Nodulation
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Shuai Wu, Xiaoli Wang, Jie Qin, Wenqing Tian, Min Wang, Aiqin Yue, Lixiang Wang, Weijun Du and Jinzhong Zhao
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050988 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Nodulation is the most efficient nitrate assimilation system in the ecosystem, while excessive fertilization has an increased nitrate inhibition effect; deciphering the nitrate signal transduction mechanism in the process is of the utmost importance. In this study, genome-wide analyses of the GmCEP genes
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Nodulation is the most efficient nitrate assimilation system in the ecosystem, while excessive fertilization has an increased nitrate inhibition effect; deciphering the nitrate signal transduction mechanism in the process is of the utmost importance. In this study, genome-wide analyses of the GmCEP genes were applied to identify nodulation-related CEP genes; 22 GmCEP family members were identified, while GmCEP6 was mainly expressed in nodules and significantly responded to nitrate treatment and rhizobium infection, especially in later stages. Overexpression and CRISPR-Cas9 were used to validate its role in nodulation. We found that GmCEP6 overexpression significantly increased the nodule number, while GmCEP6 knock-out significantly decreased the nodule number, which suggests that GmCEP6 functions as a positive regulator in soybean nodulation. qRT-PCR showed that alterations in the expression of GmCEP6 affected the expression of marker genes in the Nod factor signaling pathway. Lastly, the function of GmCEP6 in nitrate inhibition of nodulation was analyzed; nodule numbers in the GmCEP6-overexpressed roots significantly increased under nitrogen treatments, which suggests that GmCEP6 functions in the resistance to nitrate inhibition. The study helps us understand that GmCEP6 promotes nodulation and participates in the regulation of nitrate inhibition of nodulation, which is of great significance for high efficiency utilization of nitrogen in soybeans.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
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Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Activity, and Milk-Clotting Activity of Aqueous Extracts from Leaves, Stems, and Flowers of Three Tunisian Ecotypes of Spontaneous and Cultivated Onopordum nervosum ssp. platylepis Murb.: A Potential Novel Vegetable Rennet Option
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Rania Kouki, Ismahen Essaidi, Khouloud Annabi, Najla Dhen, Faouzi Haouala, Abdulrahman M. Alhudhaibi, Hassan A. Alrudayni, Samra Akef Bziouech, Olfa Ayari and Bouthaina Al Mohandes Dridi
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050987 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the chemical composition of aqueous extracts from different aerial plant parts (leaves, stems, and flowers) of Onopordum nervosum ssp. platylepis growing in different regions (Sousse, Kairouan, and Nabeul) in Tunisia, as well as their antioxidant and milk-clotting properties
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This study aimed to compare the chemical composition of aqueous extracts from different aerial plant parts (leaves, stems, and flowers) of Onopordum nervosum ssp. platylepis growing in different regions (Sousse, Kairouan, and Nabeul) in Tunisia, as well as their antioxidant and milk-clotting properties for both spontaneously grown and cultivated plants. Results showed that phenolic composition varies significantly among ecotypes and plant organs (p < 0.05), with flowers containing the highest amounts of total phenols and flavonoids in both plant types. The flowers from Nabeul (NA) region showed the highest amounts of total phenols and higher phenolic contents compared to leaves and stems, with 44.75 mg GAE/g and 39.79 mg GAE/g in spontaneous and cultivated plants, respectively. However, flowers of spontaneously plants grown in Sousse (SO) showed the highest total flavonoid contents (11.42 mg QE/g). Additionally, the findings indicated that flowers contained higher concentrations of mono- and disaccharides than leaves and stems. The antioxidant activity showed that the radical scavenging activity of O. platylepis aqueous extracts is significantly affected by the organ and genotype (p < 0.05). NA genotype revealed the highest potency in inhibiting free radicals, with flowers having the lowest IC50s values in 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) tests, registering 0.13 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg/mL, respectively. Milk-clotting activity was limited to flowers of this thistle. Moreover, SO and NA genotypes were identified as the most potent populations to coagulate milk in spontaneous and cultivated plants. The principal component analysis confirms the organ and genotype variability in this thistle, with the first two axes explaining 64.15% of the variance and highlighting a distinct flower group. The obtained results suggest that the domestication of this thistle could be useful for the conservation of biodiversity and the promotion of genotypes with potential technological properties.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
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The Effectiveness of Mixed Food Attractant for Managing Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) and Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) in Peanut Fields
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Liying Wang, Limei He, Tongwei Wang, Tao Xiao, Zongfeng Zou, Meng Wang, Xiaoling Cai, Bingtao Yao, Yu Yang and Kongming Wu
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 986; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050986 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Peanut is one of the widely cultivated oil-bearing and nut crops worldwide, so its stable production is crucial for oil supply and nuts, as well as socioeconomic development. Noctuid pests, such as Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) and Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel), are the major pests
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Peanut is one of the widely cultivated oil-bearing and nut crops worldwide, so its stable production is crucial for oil supply and nuts, as well as socioeconomic development. Noctuid pests, such as Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) and Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel), are the major pests in peanut. With growing resistance to chemical pesticides, there is an urgent need for advanced biocontrol solutions for peanut productions. We evaluated the control effect of Bioattract®, combined with the insecticide Coragen, a ‘mixed food attractant’, on noctuid pests through large-scale applications in four main peanut-producing provinces, Henan, Hebei, Shandong and Liaoning, of China from 2019 to 2023 in succession. The main types of insects attracted and killed by the mixed food attractant were noctuid pests, of which H. armigera, A. ipsilon and other pests were 84.2%, 10.4% and 5.4%, respectively. The female/male ratio of H. armigera was 1.04. In the mixed food attractant treatment fields, the average adjusted decrease rates of H. armigera were 68.74% ± 1.43% for the eggs and 66.84% ± 1.59% for the larvae; meanwhile, those of A. ipsilon were 59.24% ± 1.56% for the eggs and 51.06% ± 1.89% for the larvae. In addition, the damage rate of the new leaves of the peanut plants in the mixed food attractant treatment fields was significantly lower than that in the control fields, with an adjusted declined rate of 78.26% ± 0.80%. Compared with using conventional chemicals, applying biological food attractants could reduce costs by USD 43.85 ± 1.14 per hectare. These findings provide a basis for the large-scale promotion and application of Bioattract® for peanut pest management.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Challenges for the Management of Lepidopteran Pests—2nd Edition)
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Genetic Diversity, Linkage Disequilibrium, and Population Structure in a Common Bean Reference Collection
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Daniel Ambachew, Jorge Mario Londoño, Nohra Rodriguez Castillo, Asrat Asfaw and Matthew Wohlgemuth Blair
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050985 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
An in-depth understanding of the extent and pattern of genetic diversity and population structure in crop populations is of paramount importance for any crop improvement program to efficiently promote the translation of genetic diversity into genetic gain. A reference collection of 150 common
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An in-depth understanding of the extent and pattern of genetic diversity and population structure in crop populations is of paramount importance for any crop improvement program to efficiently promote the translation of genetic diversity into genetic gain. A reference collection of 150 common bean genotypes selected from the International Center for Tropical Agriculture’s global core collection was evaluated using single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers to quantify the amount of genetic diversity, linkage disequilibrium, and population structure. The cultivars and landraces of the collection were diverse and originated from 14 countries, and wild accessions were used as controls for each gene pool. The collection was genotyped using an SNP array, generating a total of 5398 locus calls distributed across the entire bean genome. The SNP data quality was checked, and two datasets were generated. The first dataset (Dataset_1) comprised a set of 5108 SNPs and 150 genotypes after filtering for 10% missing alleles and an MAF < 0.05. The second dataset (Dataset_2) comprised a set of 2300 SNPs that remained after removing any null-allele SNPs and LD pruning for a criterion of r2 < 0.2. Dataset_1 was used for a principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), phylogenetic relationship determination, an analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA), and a discriminant analysis of principal components. Dataset_2 was used for a population structure analysis using STRUCTURE software and is proposed for a genome-wide association study (GWAS). The population structure analysis split the reference collection into two subpopulations according to an Andean or Mesoamerican gene pool. The Mesoamerican populations displayed higher genetic differentiation and tended to split into more groups that were somewhat aligned with common bean races. Andean beans were characterized by a larger average LD but lower LD percentage, a small average genetic distance between members of the population, and a higher major allele frequency, which suggested narrower genetic diversity compared to the Mesoamerican gene pool. In conclusion, the results indicated the presence of high genetic diversity, which is useful for a GWAS. However, the presence of significant linkage disequilibrium requires that genetic distance be considered as a co-factor for any further genetic studies. Overall, the molecular variation observed in the genotypes shows that this reference collection is valuable as a genebank-derived diversity panel which is useful for marker trait association studies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marker Assisted Selection and Molecular Breeding in Major Crops)
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Hydroponic Screening at Early Seedling Stage Identified Sources of Salinity Tolerance in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Crop
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Zine El Abidine Fellahi, Tahar Boubellouta, Insaf Bentouati, Hadjer Safsaf, Abderrahmane Hannachi, Aleksandra O. Utkina and Nazih Y. Rebouh
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050984 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Wheat is a vital crop globally, essential for agriculture, economics, and food security. However, in arid and semi-arid conditions, wheat production faces significant challenges due to low water availability, uneven rainfall distribution, and high soil salinity. The germination and early seedling stages are
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Wheat is a vital crop globally, essential for agriculture, economics, and food security. However, in arid and semi-arid conditions, wheat production faces significant challenges due to low water availability, uneven rainfall distribution, and high soil salinity. The germination and early seedling stages are particularly vulnerable to these stresses. Therefore, this study assessed 15 wheat genotypes for their tolerance to salinity stress during early growth stages, using a hydroponic system with four salt stress levels (0, 50, 100, and 150 mM NaCl). Significant differences were observed for genotype and salinity main effects and their interaction on all investigated traits, indicating considerable variability in the response to salt stress among the investigated wheat cultivars. High NaCl concentrations led to substantial reductions in measured parameters across genotypes, with some showing resilience while others exhibited heightened sensitivity. Stress tolerance indices, such as mean productivity (MP), geometric mean productivity (GMP), harmonic mean (HM), stress tolerance index (STI) and yield index (YI), were identified as reliable indicators for selecting salt-tolerant wheat cultivars. Consequently, Sidi Okba (G11), Ziad (G12), Tamezghida (G13) and Zidane (G14) emerged as the most promising, displaying acceptable performance under both non-stress and salt-stress conditions. These genotypes could serve as valuable genetic resources for breeding programs aimed at enhancing wheat’s salinity tolerance, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wheat Breeding and Agronomic Practices: Current Status and Future Prospects)
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Low Red to Far-Red Light Ratio Promoted Growth and Fruit Quality in Salt-Stressed Tomato Plants Based on Metabolomic Analysis
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Yanxiu Miao, Ruochan Li, Caixia Li, Xiaolin Zhou, Xinxin Xu, Meihua Sun, Longqiang Bai and Leiping Hou
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 983; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050983 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Salt stress poses a serious threat to tomato production. Red to far-red light ratio (R/FR) is actively involved in the regulation of tomato growth and development; however, it is still uncertain whether and how R/FR improves fruit quality under salt stress. Thus, we
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Salt stress poses a serious threat to tomato production. Red to far-red light ratio (R/FR) is actively involved in the regulation of tomato growth and development; however, it is still uncertain whether and how R/FR improves fruit quality under salt stress. Thus, we conducted metabolomic analysis of tomato fruits under four treatments, including R/FR = 7 (CK), R/FR = 0.7 (L), R/FR = 7 and 100 mmol·L−1 NaCl (Na), and R/FR = 0.7 and 100 mmol·L−1 NaCl (Na+L). Metabolomic analysis indicated that both low R/FR and salt stress enhanced organic acids and phenols accumulation; however, additional low R/FR mainly improved carbohydrates, organic acids, phenols and amino acids accumulation in salt-stressed tomato fruit. Physiological studies were consistent with the above results and further revealed that additional low R/FR drastically promoted plant growth, soluble sugar, total phenol and flavonoid contents, improved osmotic pressure balance and antioxidant capacity, and notably relieved the salt stress-induced suppressions. This study proved the importance of applying light quality regulation in salt-resistant tomato production.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop and Vegetable Physiology under Environmental Stresses)
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The Effects of Harvesting Period and Inoculant on Second-Crop Maize Silage Fermentative Quality
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Lorenzo Serva, Giorgio Marchesini, Luisa Magrin, Arzu Peker and Severino Segato
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050982 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
Southern Europe’s mutating weather conditions and the European environmental agenda have suggested the cropping of maize (Zea mays L.) after winter cereal cultivation, even if shortening the growing period could result in an immature harvesting stage, limiting its silage quality. The experimental
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Southern Europe’s mutating weather conditions and the European environmental agenda have suggested the cropping of maize (Zea mays L.) after winter cereal cultivation, even if shortening the growing period could result in an immature harvesting stage, limiting its silage quality. The experimental design investigated the effects of four harvesting dry matter (DM) classes (DMvl, 23.9%; DMl, 25.3%; DMm, 26.2%; DMh, 30.4%) in two inoculant types (heterofermentative (HE) vs. homofermentative (HOM) on fermentative quality, DM losses, and aerobic stability. The early harvested DMvl and DMl classes had the lowest silage density (<130 kg m−3) and resulted in an organic acids profile lowering the fermentative quality and increasing the DM losses, while no differences were detected following the use of the inoculants. The aerobic stability was more susceptible to further adverse fermentation via opportunistic microorganisms in the DMm and DMh classes, probably due to the lower moisture content, but the use of both HE and HOM lactic acid bacteria seemed to contain this silage surface damage. In summary, a shortening of the maize growing period might limit the achievement of the maturity stage ideal for high-quality silage, hampering the positive effects of both HOM and HE inoculants in the ensiling process of early harvested maize.
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(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)
Open AccessEditorial
Metagenomic Analysis for Unveiling Agricultural Microbiome
by
Yao Wang, Peng Yu and Yong-Xin Liu
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 981; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050981 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
Microbial communities play crucial roles in sustaining agricultural ecosystems, influencing both crop health and productivity [1] (Figure 1) [...]
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metagenomic Analysis for Unveiling Agricultural Microbiome)
Open AccessArticle
Zn Oxide Nanoparticles and Fine Particles: Synthesis, Characterization and Evaluation of the Toxic Effect on Germination and Vigour of Solanum licopersicum L.
by
Marina de Francisco, Sara Mira, Luisa Durães, Andreia Romeiro, Silvia Álvarez-Torrellas and Patricia Almendros
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050980 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
The micronutrient Zinc (Zn) is essential for the proper growth and development of crops. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (NPs) and fine particles are presented as an emerging alternative to more traditional fertilizers. In this study, the possible toxic effect of four laboratory-synthesized ZnO NPs
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The micronutrient Zinc (Zn) is essential for the proper growth and development of crops. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (NPs) and fine particles are presented as an emerging alternative to more traditional fertilizers. In this study, the possible toxic effect of four laboratory-synthesized ZnO NPs and fine particles with different characteristics on tomato seed germination and vigor parameters was examined in comparison to bulk ZnO. Different metal precursors were used for the chemical synthesis of the particles: Zn(NO3)2 and ZnSO4, for particles named NIT-. and SUL-., respectively. In addition, the synthesis process was modified to obtain coated particles (denoted as UW-, NIT-UW and SUL-UW) and washed particles (denoted as W-, NIT-W and SUL-W). These particles were applied at different toxic doses (0, 1.4, 2.8, 5.6 and 11.2 g L−1). The results indicated that although the constant contact time between the ZnO particles did not affect the germination capacity of the seeds, it affected the growth of roots and hypocotyls, with a higher impact on the roots’ development. This toxicity was more evident from the lowest particle dose used, although it did not prevent radicle and hypocotyl elongation during the development period studied (14 days). The synthesized coated particles (NIT-UW, SUL-UW) generated high toxicity on radicle and hypocotyl development, and this effect was observed from the first days of contact with the particles. The observed toxic effects on radicle length were minimized by the application of bulk ZnO particles. In the case of hypocotyl growth, these minor toxic effects were observed by using NIT-W particles and bulk ZnO. The possibility of positive effects on seed germination and development (radicle and hypocotyl length) when in continuous contact with ZnO, whether in fine particles, nanoparticles, or bulk sizes, was excluded. Furthermore, no benefits on germination parameters were observed by suppressing the final washing step in the particle’s synthesis process, suggesting that particle coating did not provide any advantage for seed germination under these continuous contact conditions.
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(This article belongs to the Section Farming Sustainability)
Open AccessArticle
Sodium Tetraborate Induces Systemic Resistance in Watermelon against Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum
by
Nguyen Thi Thu Nga, Eigil de Neergaard, Hunthrike Shekar Shetty, Tran Thi Thu Thuy, Pham Van Kim and Hans Jørgen Lyngs Jørgensen
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 979; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050979 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
Imbibing watermelon seeds in 1 mM sodium tetraborate (Na2B4O7) for 24 h systemically protected plants against foliar infection by Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum in detached leaves and under greenhouse conditions. The treatment resulted in both a reduction in the
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Imbibing watermelon seeds in 1 mM sodium tetraborate (Na2B4O7) for 24 h systemically protected plants against foliar infection by Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum in detached leaves and under greenhouse conditions. The treatment resulted in both a reduction in the overall percentage of leaf infection as well as in the size of lesions. Studies of the mechanisms by which Na2B4O7 protected watermelon showed that there was no direct effect on the S. cucurbitacearum mycelium growth in vitro. On the other hand, plants raised from seeds primed with Na2B4O7 showed a higher frequency of fluorescent epidermal cells compared to the plants treated with water. This indicates that a higher number of cells expressed the hypersensitive response after Na2B4O7 priming. In addition, there was an increase in peroxidase activity and an enhanced accumulation of a 45 kDa acidic peroxidase isoform during the early stages of infection in plants treated with Na2B4O7 compared to plants treated with water and this was positively correlated to the reduction of leaf infection caused by the pathogen. These results indicate that Na2B4O7 is able to induce systemic resistance in watermelon against S. cucurbitacearum by activating the hypersensitive reaction at penetration sites, increasing peroxidase activity and altering the peroxidase isozyme profile. Although each individual response may only have had a minor effect, their combined effects had a reducing effect on the disease.
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(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)
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Open AccessArticle
The Effect of Fertilizers on Soil Total and Available Cadmium in China: A Meta-Analysis
by
Xiaoning Zhao, Li Li, Lihua Xue, Yi Hu and Jiangang Han
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 978; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050978 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
The unreasonable use of fertilizers is a significant cause of cultivated soil cadmium (Cd) accumulation. Although there is research about the effect of fertilizers on soil cadmium (Cd) accumulation under different crops, soils, and cultivation durations locally and specifically, its relative and determinant
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The unreasonable use of fertilizers is a significant cause of cultivated soil cadmium (Cd) accumulation. Although there is research about the effect of fertilizers on soil cadmium (Cd) accumulation under different crops, soils, and cultivation durations locally and specifically, its relative and determinant factors are seldom comprehensively and comparatively researched and evaluated. We used meta-analysis to analyze the effects of fertilizers (mineral fertilizer N, P, K (NPK) with manure (NPKM), NPK with straw (NPKS), and the mineral fertilizer N (N), NK (NK)), crops, duration, climate, and soil texture on the Chinese soil total and available Cd change during 1987–2022. The results showed that the order of the increased soil total and available Cd change was NPKM (total: 62%–104%, available: 61%–143%) > NPKS (50%–86%, 48%–116%) > NPK (25%–50%, 35%–75%) > NK (5%–19%, 19%–33%) > N (2%–6%, 7%–31%). NPKM and NPKS significantly increased the total Cd under maize (104%, 86%) and available Cd under rice (136%, 116%). Cd changed the fastest with the NPKM cultivation duration for total Cd under maize (slope: 5.9) and available Cd under rice (6.6). The change of the soil total and available Cd had the higher value in the semiarid region, clay soils, lower pH, and long cultivations. The change of the soil total and available Cd were highest (398%, 375%) in the semiarid region for clay loam after 20–25 years of NPKM fertilization, when the pH decreased to the lowest (−1.9). According to the aggregated boosted tree analysis, the fertilizers and duration were the best explanatory variable (>53%) for the soil total and available Cd. In conclusion, the soil Cd could be mitigated through reducing the long–term manure, straw, and P fertilizer content with Cd, and field managements such as liming, wetting, and drying according to the crops, climate, and soil texture.
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(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)
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Open AccessArticle
Reduced Translocation Confers Paraquat Resistance in Plantago lanceolata
by
Vhuthu Ndou, Deon Kotze, Biljana Marjanovic-Painter, Ethel E. Phiri, Petrus J. Pieterse and Molahlehi S. Sonopo
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050977 - 6 May 2024
Abstract
Ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) is a common weed in the winter rainfall region of South Africa. This weed is widespread across vineyards, orchards, and roadsides in the region. The weed has already evolved resistance to glyphosate and paraquat; however, the mechanism
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Ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) is a common weed in the winter rainfall region of South Africa. This weed is widespread across vineyards, orchards, and roadsides in the region. The weed has already evolved resistance to glyphosate and paraquat; however, the mechanism of paraquat resistance has not been documented. This study aimed to investigate the resistance mechanisms in this resistant (R) biotype. Dose–response trials conducted with R biotypes from the Robertson area reconfirmed paraquat resistance. Dose–response trials established that the paraquat rate causing 50% mortality (LD50) for the R biotype is three times greater than for the susceptible (S) biotype. To find out how paraquat affected the photosynthetic performance of P. lanceolata, the quantum yield of photosystem II was measured. The photosystem reaction centres of the R biotype recovered 24 h after paraquat treatment. To evaluate paraquat transport in the plant cell, selective transport inhibitors were applied. Plantago lanceolata (S) biotypes had the highest electrolyte leakage after paraquat treatment. A combined radio/UV-HPLC was used for the separation and identification of paraquat and its metabolites. Paraquat degradation was not observed, indicating that metabolism was not a resistance mechanism within the R biotype. To assess leaf absorption and translocation, [14C]-labelled paraquat was applied to fully expanded leaves. There were no significant differences in paraquat absorption. However, paraquat translocation differed significantly across the R and S biotypes, indicating that non-target site resistance through reduced paraquat translocation was the main mechanism of resistance in the R biotype. As the resistance of weed species to post-emergence herbicides continues to increase, achieving sustainable weed management necessitates the implementation of diversified weed control strategies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Herbicides Toxicology and Weeds Herbicide-Resistant Mechanism—Series II)
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Open AccessArticle
Natural Contamination of Rice with Ustiloxins and the Connection with Climate Conditions in Southern China
by
Xuexue Miao, Ying Miao, Yang Liu, Shuhua Tao, Huabin Zheng, Na Kuang, Jiemin Wang and Qiyuan Tang
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050976 - 6 May 2024
Abstract
Mycotoxins often contaminate rice, which are the secondary metabolites of fungi. Ustiloxins, a type of mycotoxin that has often been overlooked, pose a significant risk to human health. Therefore, identifying and controlling the pollution of ustiloxins in rice is required. In this study,
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Mycotoxins often contaminate rice, which are the secondary metabolites of fungi. Ustiloxins, a type of mycotoxin that has often been overlooked, pose a significant risk to human health. Therefore, identifying and controlling the pollution of ustiloxins in rice is required. In this study, we examined the natural contamination of rice with ustiloxins and their link to climate conditions. A total of 300 paddy samples were collected from six regions in southern China, and concentrations of ustiloxins A, B, C, D, and F were analyzed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results showed that the occurrence of ustiloxins A, B, C, D, and F in paddies was found to be 55.7%, 41.3%, 29.0%, 93.7%, and 96.7%, respectively. Ustiloxin A had the highest mean (177.8 µg/kg) and maximum (3620.9 µg/kg) concentration, followed, in order, by ustiloxins C, B, D, and F. Furthermore, ustiloxin levels were significantly different depending on their origin, with the highest concentration in rice from Changde and Yueyang. And the regional difference in ustiloxins was related to the diversity of climate. A positive correlation between ustiloxin occurrence and mean humidity and precipitation was found in July and August of different regions, while mean temperature indicated a negative dependence. This is an essential survey of the contamination of rice with ustiloxins throughout southern China. The influence of climatic conditions on ustiloxins contamination was evaluated for the first time in our study. Overall, the rice samples examined in this study exhibited a high distribution of ustiloxins, suggesting that regulatory limits and the establishment of maximum allowable levels of ustiloxins in rice are necessary. This study provides a basis and guidance for the pollution situation and control strategy of ustiloxins in China.
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(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)
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