Water parameters correlated with the zootechnical performance of shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei grown in oligohaline waters

The present study aimed to correlate the influence of water quality, cultivation time, area, and density of ponds on the zootechnical performance of shrimp Litopenaeus vannameiin oligohaline waters. It was demonstrated that, under the conditions of this research, better control of temperature, pH and water alkalinity can be employed. Ammonia levels were within the normal range and correlated positively with the growth rate (ρ= 0.69859) and production (ρ= 0.66362) of the ponds. There was also a positive correlation between cultivation time and pond density with shrimp weight (ρ= 0.75305 and 0.68933) and pond productivity (ρ= 0.74763 and 0.79367, respectively). Negative correlations were observed between: I) pH with shrimp survival (ρ= -0.73238) and pondproduction (ρ= -0.68696); II) alkalinity and pond production (ρ= -0.66162). The results show that the cultivation of shrimp L.vannameiin oligohaline waters is viable and there is potential for increased productivity associated with better hydrologicalmonitoring and use of higher density and cultivation time by some producers.(AU)

Lantana flowering at an indoor active living wall in a light-restricted environment / Florescimento de Lantana em jardim vertical indoor em ambiente com restrição de luz

The time spent by urban residents indoors has been increasing annually, thus, prioritizing the enhancement of indoor spaces into green spaces to improve the quality of life. Even with limited environmental conditions indoors, an active living wall and LED light techniques have enabled us to explore indoor green environments. In the present study, the yellow/orange-colored flowers invasive ornamental species,Lantana camara'splendens', was cultivated in 4.0 m2 of the active living wall under a non-decorative LED lamp, adjusted to optimize performance in the coverage area. This study evaluated the development of lantana in the active living wall under different light intensities (135 watts and 90 watts) in a room with light restriction. Parameters such as plant height, flowering, SPAD chlorophyll content, and vegetative cover were analyzed. The results indicated that Lantana camara 'splendens' is suitable for use in active living walls and blooms at a low light intensity when the light is uniformly applied.

O tempo gasto pelos moradores urbanos em ambientes fechados vem aumentando anualmente, assim, priorizando a valorização dos espaços internos em espaços verdes para melhorar a qualidade de vida. Mesmo com condições ambientais limitadas em ambientes internos, o uso de jardins verticais e técnicas de luz de LED nos permitiram explorar ambientes verdes internos. No presente estudo, a espécie ornamental invasora de flores de coloração amarela/alaranjada, Lantana camara 'splendens', foi cultivado em 4,0 m2 de jardim vertical sob luminária LED não decorativa, ajustada para otimizar a performance na área de cobertura. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o desenvolvimento da Lantana camara 'splendens', em jardim vertical, sob diferentes intensidades de luz (135 watts e 90 watts), em ambiente com restrição total de luz. Foram analisados parâmetros como altura da planta, floração, teor de clorofila SPAD e cobertura vegetativa. Os resultados indicam que Lantana camara 'splendens' é adequada para uso em jardim vertical e floresce em baixa intensidade de luz quando a luz é aplicada uniformemente.

Biometric and morphological adjustments of Eugenia. dysenterica DC. seedlings in response to increased soil water deficit

Water stress can affect all aspects of plant growth and development, compromising its productive potential. The cultivation of fruit species native to the Cerrado and the study of their behavior under conditions of low water availability are necessary activities, in view of their socioeconomic and environmental potential. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of water deficit on growth and biomass production of the cagaita tree (Eugenia dysenterica DC.), a species endemic to the Cerrado (Brazilian Savannah). The experiment was performed in a greenhouse for 120 days in a randomized block design (RBD), with a double factorial arrangement (2x5), corresponding to two cagaita mother plants and five water conditions. We evaluated the growth and leaf, stem and root functional characteristics. The most severe water deficit conditions reduced shoot growth, number of leaves, production of biomass and dry matter and increased the specific and per plant mass root length of cagaita plants. Deficit extension had negative effects on its growth and development. There was a statistical difference between mother plants, with mother plant 2 being more resistant to drought. The application of a severe or longer water deficit affected shoot growth and reduced the appearance of new leaves. The stress caused by water deficiency allowed an increase in root functional characteristics, supporting the hypothesis that plants under adverse conditions focus on higher biomass production and convert a higher amount of dry matter into the roots. Leaf area did not show to be a functional characteristic, explaining the stress effects in E. dysenterica DC plants.(AU)

Breeding and productive qualities of ducks of the local population in northern Kazakhstan / As qualidades reprodutivas e produtivas dos patos da população local no norte do Cazaquistão

The production of duck meat in the republic was previously based on the use of 4-5 lines and populations of the Beijing breed, where the Medeo cross lines (M-1 paternal and M2-maternal) were the most widespread. At the same time, many domestic lines and populations, such as the cross "Bishkulskaya Tsvetnaya", "Kyzylzharsky", whose livestock is concentrated in the Northern region, represent rich genetic material and can be used to create new crosses. This article describes the productive and breeding qualities of ducks of the local population in the Northern region of Kazakhstan, the data obtained make it possible for further purposeful breeding work to create, preserve highly productive poultry, providing highly efficient production of eggs and meat, adapted to both industrial conditions and conditions of keeping in small-scale and farms. On the basis of "Bishkul Poultry Farm" LLP, we obtained results on the assessment of productive and breeding indicators of ducks of the local population.

A produção de carne de pato na república era anteriormente baseada no uso de 4 a 5 linhas e populações da raça de Pequim, onde as linhas de cruz Medeo (m-1 paterna e M2-materna) eram mais difundidas. No entanto, muitas linhas e populações domésticas, como cross "Bishkul Color" e "Kyzylzharsky", cuja população está concentrada na região Norte, representam um rico material genético e podem ser utilizados em novos cruzamentos. Este artigo descreve as qualidades produtivas e reprodutivas dos patos da população local na região norte do Cazaquistão. Os dados obtidos permitem um trabalho de criação mais focado na criação e preservação de aves altamente produtivas, garantindo a produção altamente eficiente de ovos e carne, adaptada tanto às condições industriais quanto às condições de detenção em pequenas fazendas. Com base na "Bishkul avicultura LLP", obtivemos resultados relacionados à avaliação dos indicadores produtivos e reprodutivos dos patos da população local.

Relationship between body weight and scrotal circumference in growing Pelibuey sheep raised under tropical conditions / Relação entre o peso corporal e a circunferência escrotal em ovinos Pelibuey em crescimento criados em condições tropicais

The body weight (BW) of an animal is a vital economic trait that might help in decision-making in the handling of animals. The objective of the present study was to develop equations for the prediction of BW in Pelibuey sheep using scrotal circumference (SC). The BW (23.40 ± 6.96 kg) and SC (20.25 ± 6.19 cm) have been recorded in 405 male Pelibuey at the Southeastern Center for Ovine Integration, Mexico. Linear, logarithmic, quadratic, exponential, cubic, and power regression models were used for data analysis. Pearson correlation (R), Coefficient of determination (R2), Adjusted coefficient of determination (Adj.R2) Root mean square error (RMSE), Akaike information criterion (AIC), and Bayesian information criterion (BIC) were used to select the best model. Power regression model showed the highest R (0.93), R2 (0.86), Adj.R2 (0.86) and lowest RMSE (0.02), AIC (-989.44) and BIC (-981.44). The current study suggests that SC might be used as the only predictor for BW of growing Pelibuey sheep raised under tropical conditions.

O peso corporal (PC) do animal é uma característica econômica importante, que pode auxiliar na tomada de decisões no manejo dos animais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi desenvolver equações para a predição do PC em ovinos Pelibuey por meio da circunferência escrotal (CE). O PC (23,40±6,96kg) e a CE (20,25±6,19cm) foram registrados em 405 ovinos machos da raça Pelibuey no Centro de Integração Ovina da Região Sudeste do México. Os modelos lineares, logarítmicos, quadráticos, exponenciais, cúbicos e de regressão de potência foram utilizados para a análise dos dados. A correlação de Pearson (R), o coeficiente de determinação (R2), o coeficiente de determinação ajustado (Adj.R2), o erro do quadrado médio (EQM), o critério de informação de Akaike (AIC) e o critério de informação bayesiano (BIC) foram usados para selecionar o melhor modelo. O modelo de regressão de potência apresentou maiores R (0,93), R2 (0,86), Adj.R2 (0,86) e menores EQM (0,02), AIC (-989,44) e BIC (-981,44). O estudo atual sugere que a CE pode ser usada como um único preditor para o PC de ovinos Pelibuey em crescimento criadas em condições tropicais.

The Siberian pine growth dynamics in Altai Mountains, China / A dinâmica de crescimento do pinheiro siberiano nas montanhas de Altai, China

Climatic factors play an essential role in the growth of tree ring width. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the correlation between climatic variables and tree-ring growth characteristics of Pinus sibirica in Altai mountains, northwestern China. This study being is first of its kind on climate growth analysis of Pinus sibirica in northwestern China. The study showed great potential to understand the species growing under the specific climatic conditions. Total of 70 tree cores collected from three sites in the sampling area, out of which 63 tree cores considered for this study. The effect of climatic variables which was studied include precipitation, temperature and PDSI. Our results showed that Tree Ring Width chronology has a significantly positive correlation with the late winter (March) temperature and significant negative correlation with the July temperatures. A significant correlation was observed with the late summer precipitation whereas no significant relation found with the Palmer Drought Severity Index. These significant correlations with temperature and precipitation suggested that this tree species had the potential for the reconstruction of the past climate in the area.

Fatores climáticos desempenham papel essencial no crescimento da largura dos anéis das árvores. Neste estudo, objetivou-se avaliar a correlação entre variáveis climáticas e características de crescimento de anéis de árvores de Pinus sibirica nas montanhas de Altai, noroeste da China. Este estudo é o primeiro desse tipo na análise do crescimento climático de Pinus sibirica no noroeste da China. O estudo mostrou grande potencial para entender as espécies que crescem sob as condições climáticas específicas. Total de 70 testemunhos coletados em três locais na área de amostragem, dos quais 63 testemunhos considerados para este estudo. O efeito das variáveis climáticas estudadas incluem precipitação, temperatura e PDSI. Nossos resultados mostraram que a cronologia da Largura do Anel da Árvore tem uma correlação significativamente positiva com a temperatura do final do inverno (março) e uma correlação negativa significativa com as temperaturas de julho. Uma correlação significativa foi observada com a precipitação do final do verão, enquanto nenhuma relação significativa foi encontrada com o Índice de Severidade de Seca de Palmer. Essas correlações significativas com a temperatura e precipitação sugeriram que esta espécie de árvore tinha o potencial para a reconstrução do clima passado na área.

The Siberian pine growth dynamics in Altai Mountains, China / A dinâmica de crescimento do pinheiro siberiano nas montanhas de Altai, China

Climatic factors play an essential role in the growth of tree ring width. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the correlation between climatic variables and tree-ring growth characteristics of Pinus sibirica in Altai mountains, northwestern China. This study being is first of its kind on climate growth analysis of Pinus sibirica in northwestern China. The study showed great potential to understand the species growing under the specific climatic conditions. Total of 70 tree cores collected from three sites in the sampling area, out of which 63 tree cores considered for this study. The effect of climatic variables which was studied include precipitation, temperature and PDSI. Our results showed that Tree Ring Width chronology has a significantly positive correlation with the late winter (March) temperature and significant negative correlation with the July temperatures. A significant correlation was observed with the late summer precipitation whereas no significant relation found with the Palmer Drought Severity Index. These significant correlations with temperature and precipitation suggested that this tree species had the potential for the reconstruction of the past climate in the area.(AU)

Fatores climáticos desempenham papel essencial no crescimento da largura dos anéis das árvores. Neste estudo, objetivou-se avaliar a correlação entre variáveis climáticas e características de crescimento de anéis de árvores de Pinus sibirica nas montanhas de Altai, noroeste da China. Este estudo é o primeiro desse tipo na análise do crescimento climático de Pinus sibirica no noroeste da China. O estudo mostrou grande potencial para entender as espécies que crescem sob as condições climáticas específicas. Total de 70 testemunhos coletados em três locais na área de amostragem, dos quais 63 testemunhos considerados para este estudo. O efeito das variáveis climáticas estudadas incluem precipitação, temperatura e PDSI. Nossos resultados mostraram que a cronologia da Largura do Anel da Árvore tem uma correlação significativamente positiva com a temperatura do final do inverno (março) e uma correlação negativa significativa com as temperaturas de julho. Uma correlação significativa foi observada com a precipitação do final do verão, enquanto nenhuma relação significativa foi encontrada com o Índice de Severidade de Seca de Palmer. Essas correlações significativas com a temperatura e precipitação sugeriram que esta espécie de árvore tinha o potencial para a reconstrução do clima passado na área.(AU)

Physical attributes and yield of wheat seeds originated from plants under temporary flooding of the soil / Atributos físicos e rendimento de sementes de trigo originadas de plantas sob alagamento temporário do solo

The aim of this work was to evaluate whether there is any influence of temporary soil flooding on the agronomic performance and yield of wheat varieties. The experimental design was completely random blocks, in an 11x2 factorial scheme (eleven varieties and two soil water conditions), with four replications. Stress was imposed in the stage prior to plant anthesis. The assessments were made in two seasons (2016/2017) in relation to the number of spikelets in the main ear, number of seeds in the main ear, mass of seeds in the main ear, number of seeds in the tiller ear, mass of seeds in the tiller ear and yield in the useful area. The physical attributes number of seeds, seed mass and wheat seed yield, according to variety and agricultural year, are negatively affected by the temporary flooding (12 days) of the soil. There is influence of temporary soil flooding on the agronomic performance and yield of wheat varieties. The varieties TBio Toruk, TBio Sinuelo, TBio Sintonia, and CD151 are superior in soil flooding condition for the number of spikelets, number of seeds end for the seed mass attribute. In the soil at field capacity, the seeds produced have higher yield compared to those produced under flooding period, reaching about 309.2 Kg more for the variety TBio Sinuelo, 262 Kg for TBio Toruk and 114 Kg in CD1303.

O trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar se há influência do alagamento temporário do solo no desempenho agronômico e no rendimento de cultivares de trigo. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 11x2 (onze cultivares e duas condições hídricas do solo), com quatro repetições. O estresse foi o imposto no estádio antecedente a antese das plantas. Foi realizada a avaliação por dois anos (2016/2017) do número de espigueta da espiga principal, número de sementes da espiga principal, massa de sementes da espiga principal, número de sementes da espiga do perfilho, massa de sementes da espiga do perfilho e rendimento da área útil. Os atributos físicos número de sementes, massa de sementes e o rendimento de sementes de trigo, conforme a cultivar e ano agrícola, são afetados negativamente pelo alagamento temporário (12 dias) do solo. Há influência do alagamento temporário do solo no desempenho agronômico e na produtividade das variedades de trigo. As variedades TBio Toruk, TBio Sinuelo, TBio Sintonia e CD151 são superiores na condição de alagamento do solo para o número de espiguetas, número de sementes e para o atributo massa de sementes. Na condição de capacidade de campo, as sementes produzidas apresentam maior rendimento, atingindo cerca de 309,2 Kg a mais para a cultivar TBio Sinuelo, 262 Kg para a TBio Toruk e 114 Kg na CD1303 em comparação àquelas produzidas sob o período de alagamento imposto.

Beneficial Impact of Hypercapnic Conditions During Early Incubation on Broiler Hatchability. Embryo Mortality and Postnatal Performance

We assessed the extent to which CO2 levels altered different hatching and chick parameters. In Experiments 1 and 2, a total of 16,184 eggs from Cobb 500 breeders were incubated in single stage incubators under three different conditions: (a) standard ventilated incubator (CON, Exp.1 and 2); (b) increasing CO2 levels during the first 10 days of incubation until 0.7% (V7000, Exp. 1) and (c) until 0.8% (V8000, Exp. 2). High levels of CO2 improved hatchability, possibly due to lower embryo mortality from ED18 to ED21. Internal and external pipping in experiment V8000 started later than in CON; nevertheless, the hatch still occurred before in V8000 as a result of the shorter durations of external pipping and hatch. In Experiment 3, a total of 12,138 eggs from Cobb 500 were incubated in single stage incubators under three different conditions: (a) standard ventilated incubator (CON); (b) increasing CO2 levels until 1.0% with ventilation (V10000); and (c) increasing CO2 levels until 1.0% without ventilation (NV10000). Hypercapnic conditions led to better hatchability and lower embryo mortality from ED18 to ED21. Internal pipping started earlier in NV10000, but only V10000 differed from CON in terms of the average time for hatch. Hypercapnic groups also showed shorter durations of external pipping and hatch when compared to CON. Post-hatch analysis revealed no differences among incubation conditions in terms of body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, mortality by sudden death syndrome, and production factor. Nevertheless, V10000 showed a lower mortality by ascites and a better viability when compared to CON, while NV10000 presented a higher mortality by other causes. Altogether, our findings indicate that in addition to not being detrimental to embryo survival, high CO2 levels reduce embryonic mortality at 18-21 days of incubation and increase hatchability.(AU)

Yield response factor (Ky) and initial growth in black pepper in a tropical environment

Black pepper is widely produced in Brazil, though there are few studies related to its water requirements and the effects of water deficit (WD) applied under tropical conditions. The growth, sensitivity to WD, and first-year productivity of irrigated plants from the Bragantina cultivar were evaluated, employing an irrigation system with automatic management. The plants were cultivated in plastic pots installed in the field for 391 days using emitters with different flow rates (2.2 [T1], 3.3 [T2], 4.3 [T3], and 5.3 L h­1 [T4 ­ control]). Fresh weight of the leaves, stems, and shoots, and dry weight of the leaves, stem, roots, and shoots as well as the total dry weight of the plant, were evaluated. Productivity was determined by evaluating the grains and spikes from a single harvest. Yield results and the actual versus maximum evapotranspiration rate for the entire growing season was used for calculating the Ky coefficient. Despite 1,346 mm of rainfall, the irrigation system was activated 165 times, distributing a mean volume of 19.0 (T1), 28.5 (T2), 37.1 (T3), and 45.8 L per plant (control). All traits were negatively affected by the WD, and the Ky values obtained (from 1.72 to 2.96) indicate the high sensitivity of black pepper to WD. In general, the spikes produced with at least 81 % of the crop water demand were larger and more numerous than those subjected to inferior treatments. WD occurring during the flowering stage severely hampers the size, weight, and quality of the spikes and grains of black pepper.(AU)

Initial performance and genetic diversity of coffee trees cultivated under contrasting altitude conditions

This work evaluated the initial performance and genetic diversity of Coffea canephora genotypes cultivated in environments at contrasting altitudes. Fourteen morphophysiological traits and seven descriptors of the genus Coffea spp. of coffee trees cultivated at altitudes of 140 m and 700 m were evaluated. The design used was Federer's augmented block in a 2 × 112 factorial scheme with six blocks. The first factor was the two environments, and the second was the 112 genotypes, with eight common treatments, being five conilon coffee clones and three arabica coffee cultivars. The data were analyzed by the method of REML/BLUP and genetic correlation method. Genetic diversity was evaluated by estimating the distance matrix, applying the Gower methodology followed by the clustering method by Tocher and UPGMA. The phenotypic means were higher in the environment at an altitude of 700 m, except for plant height, number of leaves, and canopy height (CH). Genotypic effects were significant for most traits except for leaf width, CH, unit leaf area, and total leaf area. A wide genetic diversity was verified, with distances varying from 0.037 to 0.593 for the pairs of genotypes 26 × 93 and T7 × 76, respectively. Most of the traits studied showed high genotypic correlation with the environment and expressive genetic correlation between the evaluated traits thereby demonstrating the possibility of indirect selection. There is an adaptation of conilon coffee genotypes to high altitudes and the possibility of developing a specific cultivar for the southern state of Espírito Santo.

In vitro germination and reserve mobilization of Vriesea friburgensis Mez / Germinação in vitro e mobilização de reservas de Vriesea friburgensis Mez

Studies on the germination and establishment of plants are key pieces to understanding the reproductive success of plants. This work aimed to describe in vitro germination and reserve mobilization in the bromeliad Vriesea friburgensis through morphological, histochemical, and biochemical analysis. The conditions used in this study for the in vitro germination are adequate. From the third day of in vitro inoculation, a uniform germination of 98% was obtained, exhibiting a high physiological quality of the seeds and a high potential to produce seedlings (94%). There is early reserve mobilization, which began in the imbibition phase. The accumulated reserves in the endosperm cytoplasm are degraded by hydrolytic enzymes provided by the aleurone layer. It is possible that compounds in the cell walls of the endosperm contribute to a lesser extent in mobilization. Additionally, it was observed that starch accumulation in the cotyledon increases when the seedling has formed. Results from this study provide insights for future studies on ecology, seed technology, and conservation in this species. This study contributes to the limited knowledge of the dynamics of reserves during germination and seedling establishment in Bromeliaceae. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study with this approach in the genus Vriesea.

Estudos sobre germinação e estabelecimento de plantas são peças-chave para entender o sucesso reprodutivo das plantas. Este trabalho teve como objetivo descrever a germinação in vitro e a mobilização de reservas na bromélia Vriesea friburgensis por meio de análises morfológicas, histoquímicas e bioquímicas. As condições utilizadas neste estudo para a germinação in vitro são adequadas. A partir do terceiro dia de inoculação in vitro, obteve-se germinação uniforme de 98%, apresentando alta qualidade fisiológica das sementes e alto potencial de produção de plântulas (94%). Há uma mobilização precoce de reservas, iniciada na fase de embebição. As reservas acumuladas no citoplasma do endosperma são degradadas por enzimas hidrolíticas fornecidas pela camada de aleurona. É possível que compostos nas paredes celulares do endosperma contribuam em menor grau na mobilização. Além disso, observou-se que o acúmulo de amido no cotilédone aumenta com a formação da plântula. Os resultados deste estudo fornecem informações para estudos futuros sobre ecologia, tecnologia de sementes e conservação desta espécie. Este estudo contribui para o conhecimento limitado da dinâmica das reservas durante a germinação e estabelecimento de plântulas em Bromeliaceae. Até onde sabemos, este é o primeiro estudo com esta abordagem no gênero Vriesea.

Physiology and production of sugar-apple under water stress and application of proline / Fisiologia e produção de pinheira sob estresse hídrico e aplicação de prolina

The objective of this study was to evaluate the physiology and production of sugar-apple as a function of irrigation intervals and foliar application of proline under the conditions of Paraíba's semi-arid region. A randomized block design was laid out in a 4 × 2 factorial scheme, with treatments resulting from the combination of four irrigation intervals (1, 4, 8 and 12 days) and two concentrations of proline (0 and 10 mM), with four replicates, and the plot consisted of four usable plants. Increase in irrigation intervals reduced the gas exchange of sugar-apple plants at 298 days after transplanting. Exogenous application of proline at concentration of 10 mM increased contents of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and carotenoids and fruit fresh mass in plants grown under 12-day irrigation intervals.

Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a fisiologia e a produção da pinheira em função dos turnos de rega e aplicação foliar de prolina em condições do semiárido Paraibano. Foi utilizado o delineamento de blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 4 × 2, cujos tratamentos resultam da combinação de quatro turno de rega (1, 4, 8 e 12 dias) e duas concentrações de prolina (0 e 10 mM), com quatro repetições, cuja a parcela foi constituída de quatro plantas úteis. O incremento nos turnos de rega reduziu as trocas gasosas das plantas de pinheira, aos 298 dias após o transplantio. A aplicação de prolina na concentração de 10 mM aumentou o extravasamento de eletrólitos no limbo foliar, a condutância estomática e diminuiu a concentração interna de CO2 das plantas de pinheira. A aplicação exógena de prolina na concentração de 10 mM aumentou os teores de clorofila a, b, total e carotenoides e a massa fresca de frutos nas plantas cultivadas sob turno de rega de 12 dias.

The economic value of sustainability of the integrated crop-livestock system in relation to conventional systems

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of improving the economic value of integrated crop-livestock systems (ICLS) compared to conventional systems specialized in monoculture. The experimental area was 16.02 ha, divided into 18 paddocks of 0.89 ha each, organized in a randomized block design, with three replicates and six models of production systems: crop system [corn ( Zea mays ) grain production], livestock system (beef cattle under grazing conditions), and four ICLS, identified as: ICLS-1, corn integrated with Marandu palisadegrass [ Urochloa brizantha (Hoechst. ex A. Rich.) R.D. Webster cv. Marandu (syn. Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu] sown simultaneously without herbicide; ICLS-2, corn and Marandu palisadegrass sown simultaneously with herbicide; ICLS-3, corn and Marandu palisadegrass with lagged sowing; and ICLS-4, corn and Marandu palisadegrass sown simultaneously, with herbicide in rows and between-rows of corn. We demonstrated the economic impact analysis combined with the risk optimization and discounted cash flow techniques based on Monte Carlo simulation, considering price and productivity uncertainties. The indicators of added value and return on investment of ICLS had an economic advantage compared with conventional systems. It was also found that ICLS needed a smaller operational area than conventional systems for the economic break-even point. Integrated systems provide lower financial and operational risk levels and greater economic value per hectare compared with conventional systems specialized in monoculture.(AU)

Optimization of oxalic acid production by fungi for biotechnological solubilization of rock phosphate

This study describes a biotechnological strategy for producing and applying oxalic acid to solubilize phosphorus (P) from rock phosphate (RP). We evaluated six fungal species (Aspergillus niger FS1, Penicillium islandicum FS41, Pleurotus ostreatus PO1, Rhizoctonia solani Rhiz555, Sclerotium rolfsii Sr25, and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Scl134) and three culture media (potato dextrose broth, Tsao and Strasser media) to maximize oxalic acid production. Among the fungal isolates tested and culture media, S. rolfsii Sr25 and Tsao medium showed efficient oxalic acid production. Tsao medium was optimized following a response surface methodology after initial screening of factors affecting RP solubilization. The optimized concentrations were 1 g L-1 NaNO3, 100 g L-1 glucose, 2 g L-1 KH2PO4, 4.5 g L-1 yeast extract, and 25 mg L-1 MgSO4·7H2O used for 20 days of incubation. Under these conditions, 71 mmol L-1 oxalic acid was obtained, representing a three-fold increase over production under non-optimized conditions (20 mmol L-1). Under optimized conditions, oxalic acid produced by S. rolfsii Sr25 reacted with low-solubility RP and solubilized 100 % of the P contained in ore. Thus, using S. rolfsii Sr25 to produce oxalic acid seems a promising biotechnological alternative for P solubilization from RP.(AU)

Comparative growth of two mussels farmed in the macrotidal mangroves of the Amazon / Crescimento comparativo de dois mexilhões cultivados em manguezais de macromarés da Amazônia

The present study evaluated the growth of the species Mytella guyanensis and Mytella strigata on ropes suspended in Amazon Macrotidal Mangrove Coast. The mussels were farmed at a density of 840 ind. m-1 of rope, with the same shell height (mm) and live weight (g) for both species. The experiment was entirely randomized, with two treatments and 15 repetitions. Significant differences were reported regarding the growth (shell height and live weight) between the species (P>0.05). The daily growth rate was greater for M. guyanensis than for M. strigata. At the end of the cultivation cycle, only 451 ± 46 (59.9%) of M. guyanensis individuals reached commercial size per meter of rope compared to 670 ± 73 (89.3%) of M. strigata individuals. Survival rates were similar. Salinity and temperature increased progressively throughout the experiment with the reduction in rainfall and were within the range considered ideal for these species. In conclusion, the farming of both species of mussels was viable under estuarine conditions influenced by macrotides, with satisfactory survival rates and daily growth (shell height and weight).

O presente trabalho avaliou o crescimento das espécies Mytella guyanensis e Mytella strigata em cordas suspensas na Costa de Manguezais de Macromarés da Amazônia. Os mexilhões foram cultivados na densidade de 840 ind. m-1 de corda, com a mesma altura de valva (mm) e peso vivo (g) para ambas as espécies. O experimento ocorreu inteiramente casualizado, com dois tratamentos e 15 repetições. Foram encontradas diferenças significativas quanto ao crescimento (altura da concha e peso vivo) entre as espécies (P>0,05). A taxa de crescimento diário foi maior para a M. guyanensis do que para M. strigata. Ao final do ciclo de cultivo, apenas 451 ± 46 (59,9%) indivíduos de M. guyanensis atingiram o tamanho comercial por metro de corda comparado a 670 ± 73 (89,3%) indivíduos de M. strigata. As taxas de sobrevivência foram semelhantes. A salinidade e a temperatura aumentaram progressivamente ao longo do experimento com a redução das chuvas e ficaram dentro da faixa considerada ideal para essas espécies. Em conclusão, o cultivo de ambas as espécies de mexilhões foi viável em condições estuarinas influenciadas pelas macromarés, com taxas de sobrevivência e crescimento diário satisfatórios (altura de valva e peso).

Comparative growth of two mussels farmed in the macrotidal mangroves of the Amazon / Crescimento comparativo de dois mexilhões cultivados em manguezais de macromarés da Amazônia

ABSTRACT: The present study evaluated the growth of the species Mytella guyanensis and Mytella strigata on ropes suspended in Amazon Macrotidal Mangrove Coast. The mussels were farmed at a density of 840 ind. m-1 of rope, with the same shell height (mm) and live weight (g) for both species. The experiment was entirely randomized, with two treatments and 15 repetitions. Significant differences were reported regarding the growth (shell height and live weight) between the species (P>0.05). The daily growth rate was greater for M. guyanensis than for M. strigata. At the end of the cultivation cycle, only 451 ± 46 (59.9%) of M. guyanensis individuals reached commercial size per meter of rope compared to 670 ± 73 (89.3%) of M. strigata individuals. Survival rates were similar. Salinity and temperature increased progressively throughout the experiment with the reduction in rainfall and were within the range considered ideal for these species. In conclusion, the farming of both species of mussels was viable under estuarine conditions influenced by macrotides, with satisfactory survival rates and daily growth (shell height and weight).

RESUMO: O presente trabalho avaliou o crescimento das espécies Mytella guyanensis e Mytella strigata em cordas suspensas na Costa de Manguezais de Macromarés da Amazônia. Os mexilhões foram cultivados na densidade de 840 ind. m-1 de corda, com a mesma altura de valva (mm) e peso vivo (g) para ambas as espécies. O experimento ocorreu inteiramente casualizado, com dois tratamentos e 15 repetições. Foram encontradas diferenças significativas quanto ao crescimento (altura da concha e peso vivo) entre as espécies (P>0,05). A taxa de crescimento diário foi maior para a M. guyanensis do que para M. strigata. Ao final do ciclo de cultivo, apenas 451 ± 46 (59,9%) indivíduos de M. guyanensis atingiram o tamanho comercial por metro de corda comparado a 670 ± 73 (89,3%) indivíduos de M. strigata. As taxas de sobrevivência foram semelhantes. A salinidade e a temperatura aumentaram progressivamente ao longo do experimento com a redução das chuvas e ficaram dentro da faixa considerada ideal para essas espécies. Em conclusão, o cultivo de ambas as espécies de mexilhões foi viável em condições estuarinas influenciadas pelas macromarés, com taxas de sobrevivência e crescimento diário satisfatórios (altura de valva e peso).

Agromorphological, yield and quality characteristics of two populations of alfalfa developed by mass selection / Características agromorfológicas, produtivas e de qualidade de duas populações de alfafa desenvolvidas por seleção massal

This study was designed to test the two alfalfa advanced populations (L-1737 and L-1738) with four control cultivars (Bilensoy-80, Gözlü, Savas and Plato) for agromorphological, yield and quality properties under irrigated conditions in two various locations in Ankara, Turkey in the years of 2013, 2014, and 2015. The experiments were arranged in a randomized block design with four replications. Results of the study showed that there were statistically significant differences in plant height and stem diameter as well as stem number among the study materials. Statistically significant differences were observed for green forage yield (P < 0.05), while not in dry matter yield among the study materials. The average green forage and dry matter yields were reported as 67.0 t ha-1 and 13. 0 t ha-1, respectively. Green forage and dry matter yields in the advanced populations of L-1737 and L-1738 were 69.2 and 67.4 t ha-1; 13.7 and 13.6 t ha-1, respectively. Those yield values were 6.5 and 3.7%; 4.3 and 3.4% higher in green forage and dry matter yields of the advanced populations of L-1737 and L-1738 compared to the control cultivar Bilensoy-80, respectively. These increases in green forage and dry matter yields were due to the effect of the mass selection method. Statistically significant differences were observed for acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, and relative feeding value among the study materials, except crude protein contents. It was concluded that the two advanced populations had good adaptation ability, high yield and good quality performance under irrigated conditions and could be used as commercial cultivars.

Este estudo foi desenhado para testar duas populações avançadas de alfafa (L-1737 e L-1738) com quatro cultivares controle (Bilensoy-80, Gözlü, Savas e Plato) para propriedades agromorfológicas, produtividade e qualidade sob condições irrigadas em dois locais diferentes em Ancara, Turquia, nos anos de 2013, 2014 e 2015. Os experimentos foram dispostos em delineamento de blocos casualizados com quatro repetições. Os resultados do estudo mostraram que houveram diferenças estatisticamente significativas na altura das plantas e diâmetro do colmo, bem como no número de colmos entre os materiais avaliados. Foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas para a produtividade de forragem verde (P < 0.05), enquanto não foram observadas diferenças na produção de matéria seca entre os materiais estudados. As produtividades médias de forragem verde e matéria seca foram de 67.0 t ha-1 e 13.0 t ha-1, respectivamente. Os rendimentos de forragem verde e matéria seca nas populações avançadas de L-1737 e L-1738 foram 69.2 e 67.4 t ha-1; 13.7 e 13.6 t ha-1, respectivamente. Esses valores de rendimento foram 6.5 e 3.7%; 4.3 e 3.4% maiores em rendimentos de forragem verde e matéria seca das populações avançadas de L-1737 e L-1738 em relação à cultivar controle Bilensoy-80, respectivamente. Esses aumentos nos rendimentos de forragem verde e matéria seca foram devidos ao efeito do método de seleção massal. Diferenças, estatisticamente significativas, foram observadas para fibra em detergente ácido, fibra em detergente neutro e valor alimentar relativo entre os materiais estudados, exceto nos teores de proteína bruta. Concluiu-se que as duas populações avançadas apresentaram boa capacidade de adaptação, alta produtividade e bom desempenho em condições irrigadas, podendo ser utilizadas como cultivares comerciais.

Effect of free range rearing on growth and meat quality of three different local chicken's phenotypes

The present study was undertaken in order to evaluate the growth performances and meat quality of three indigenous chickens phenotypes reared under extensive conditions in the region of Chlef in Algeria. A week after hatching, 3 random groups of 35 chicks from each phenotype; normal plumage free-range chicken (NPFRC), crested free-range chicken (CFRC) and naked neck free-range chicken (NNFRC) were chosen and reared in free-range conditions for 18 weeks. The highest growth performance was shown by the crested free-range chicken (CFRC). In terms of meat quality, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that crested phenotype (CFRC) showed the best nutritional qualities especially proteins and moisture. The discriminant analysis revealed that CFRC and NNFRC were better in terms of tenderness and overall acceptability. As consequence of these very interesting qualities, these local breeds should be considered for extensive production in order to provide a good quality meat, while assuring their preservation.(AU)

Effect of foliar application of bio-stimulants on growth, yield and nutritional quality of broccoli / Efeito da aplicação foliar de bioestimulantes no crescimento, produtividade e qualidade nutricional de brócolis

Broccoli is one of important cole crop grown all over the world due to its unique nutritional profile consumed fresh as well as processed. It contains a wide range of nutrients, vitamins, minerals and specific anti-cancer compounds such as glucosinolates. Broccoli cultivation in Pakistan is increasing rapidly, however, till now there is no standardized cropping technology for broccoli cultivation under local climate. Considering research gap (lack of suitable varieties, poor growth, and unavailability of optimized crop technology), trial was conducted at Vegetable research area, Institute of Horticultural Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad to evaluate the impact of bio-stimulants on different broccoli cultivars under local climatic conditions. The set of experimental treatments was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Pre-harvest application of Isabion and Seaweed extract significantly enhanced the plant height (11%), dry weight (4%), leaf area (7%), and yield plant-1 (5%). Moreover, Isabion and seaweed extract application led to the increase in antioxidant enzymes i.e., superoxide dismutase (18%), peroxidase (38%) and catalase (12%). In crux, the foliar application of bio-stimulants (Isabion and seaweed extract) on broccoli enhanced the growth, yield, and contents of antioxidant enzymes.

O brócolis é uma das importantes culturas de repolho cultivadas em todo o mundo devido ao seu perfil nutricional único consumido fresco e processado. Contém uma ampla gama de nutrientes, vitaminas, minerais e compostos anticancerígenos específicos, como glucosinolatos. O cultivo de brócolis no Paquistão está aumentando rapidamente, no entanto, até agora não há tecnologia de cultivo padronizada para o seu cultivo sob o clima local. Considerando a lacuna de pesquisa, como a falta de variedades adequadas, o baixo crescimento e a indisponibilidade de tecnologia de cultivo otimizada, o teste foi realizado na área de pesquisa de vegetais, no Instituto de Ciências Hortícolas na Universidade de Agricultura, em Faisalabad, Paquistão, para avaliar o impacto de bioestimulantes em diferentes cultivares de brócolis nas condições climáticas locais. O conjunto de tratamentos experimentais foi disposto em Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) com três repetições. A aplicação pré-colheita de Isabion e extrato de algas marinhas aumentou significativamente a altura da planta (11%), peso seco (4%), área foliar (7%) e rendimento planta (5%). Além disso, a aplicação de Isabion e extrato de algas marinhas levou ao aumento das enzimas antioxidantes, ou seja, superóxido dismutase (18%), peroxidase (38%) e catalase (12%). No crux, a aplicação foliar de bioestimulantes (Isabion e extrato de algas marinhas) melhorou o crescimento, rendimento e conteúdo de enzimas antioxidantes do vegetal