Soil tillage and sugarcane planting: an assessment of cost and economic viability

Yield and profitability levels in sugarcane crops demonstrate the importance of the agricultural practices adopted, especially for soil preparation and planting systems. This study evaluated the costs involved in 40 alternative methods for the establishment of sugarcane crops resulting from the combination of eight soil preparation systems and five planting options, followed by an assessment of the economic viability of sugarcane production for suppliers and sugar mills. Data were collected from 31 sugar mills and 42 suppliers in São Paulo State, Brazil, from the 2016/17 season. The cost analysis and discounted cash flow analysis were used to calculate economic viability. Localized soil preparation with a fixed application rate of inputs (soil amendments) and mechanized planting with a variable application rate of fertilizers were the least costly systems to establish the sugarcane crop. Regarding the sugarcane establishment system, the medium–sized sugar mills were the most economically viable when compared to independent sugarcane producers. There was no significant difference in cost to establish sugarcane crops across the various sized groups of suppliers and we identified that costs rose as the size of the sugar mills increased.

Soil tillage and sugarcane planting: an assessment of cost and economic viability

Yield and profitability levels in sugarcane crops demonstrate the importance of the agricultural practices adopted, especially for soil preparation and planting systems. This study evaluated the costs involved in 40 alternative methods for the establishment of sugarcane crops resulting from the combination of eight soil preparation systems and five planting options, followed by an assessment of the economic viability of sugarcane production for suppliers and sugar mills. Data were collected from 31 sugar mills and 42 suppliers in São Paulo State, Brazil, from the 2016/17 season. The cost analysis and discounted cash flow analysis were used to calculate economic viability. Localized soil preparation with a fixed application rate of inputs (soil amendments) and mechanized planting with a variable application rate of fertilizers were the least costly systems to establish the sugarcane crop. Regarding the sugarcane establishment system, the medium­sized sugar mills were the most economically viable when compared to independent sugarcane producers. There was no significant difference in cost to establish sugarcane crops across the various sized groups of suppliers and we identified that costs rose as the size of the sugar mills increased.(AU)

Survey of nematodes associated with sugarcane in the state of Paraná, Brazil

Sugarcane-associated nematodes (Saccharum spp.) can reduce productivity up to 50%. Through the survey, it was possible to identify the main nematodes that occur in a certain region as a tool for designing the best management and control strategies. The aim of this study was to characterize the population of nematodes associated with sugarcane in the North Central, North Pioneiro and Northwest mesoregion of the state of Paraná, Brazil, quantify the nematode genera associated with the crop and identify the species of Pratylenchus and Meloidogyne. A total amount of 89 soil and root composite samples were collected in nine municipalities. Nematodes were extracted and counted in a Peters counting chamber under an optical light microscope. Morphological description followed identification keys. Pratylenchus spp. were identified by morphological characteristics; Meloidogyne spp. were identified by morphological characteristics and isoenzyme electrophoresis. Twelve genera of nematodes associated with sugarcane were identified: Pratylenchus, Meloidogyne, Helicotylenchus, Xiphinema, Mesocriconema, Trichodorus, Aphelenchus, Hoplolaimus, Tylenchus, Tylenchorhynchus, Ditylenchus, and Paratrichodorus. The genera Pratylenchus and Meloidogyne were found with the highest frequencies in the roots. Among the species of Pratylenchus, P. zeae and P. brachyurus were found, with P. zeae being the most frequent. Among the Meloidogyne species, only M. javanica was found. These results are essential to aid decision making in the management of phytonematodes, mainly in the development of new control strategies and in directing genetic breeding programs for development of sugarcane cultivars for the Paraná state.

Soil tillage and sugarcane planting: an assessment of cost and economic viability

ABSTRACT Yield and profitability levels in sugarcane crops demonstrate the importance of the agricultural practices adopted, especially for soil preparation and planting systems. This study evaluated the costs involved in 40 alternative methods for the establishment of sugarcane crops resulting from the combination of eight soil preparation systems and five planting options, followed by an assessment of the economic viability of sugarcane production for suppliers and sugar mills. Data were collected from 31 sugar mills and 42 suppliers in São Paulo State, Brazil, from the 2016/17 season. The cost analysis and discounted cash flow analysis were used to calculate economic viability. Localized soil preparation with a fixed application rate of inputs (soil amendments) and mechanized planting with a variable application rate of fertilizers were the least costly systems to establish the sugarcane crop. Regarding the sugarcane establishment system, the mediumsized sugar mills were the most economically viable when compared to independent sugarcane producers. There was no significant difference in cost to establish sugarcane crops across the various sized groups of suppliers and we identified that costs rose as the size of the sugar mills increased.

Estimation of leaf nitrogen levels in sugarcane using hyperspectral models / Modelagem hiperespectral na quantificação de nitrogênio foliar em cana-de-açúcar

Sugarcane is a good source of renewable energy and helps reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. Nitrogen has a critical role in plant growth; therefore, estimating nitrogen levels is essential, and remote sensing can improve fertilizer management. This field study selects wavelengths from hyperspectral data on a sugarcane canopy to generate models for estimating leaf nitrogen concentrations. The study was carried out in the municipalities of Piracicaba, Jaú, and Santa Maria da Serra, state of São Paulo, in the 2013/2014 growing season. The experiments were carried out using a completely randomized block design with split plots (three sugarcane varieties per plot [variety SP 81-3250 was common to all plots] and four nitrogen concentrations [0, 50, 100, and 150 kgha-¹] per subplot) and four repetitions. The wavelengths that best correlated with leaf nitrogen were selected usingsparse partial least square regression. The wavelength regionswere combinedby stepwise multiple linear regression. Spectral bands in the visible (700-705 nm), red-edge (710-720 nm), near-infrared (725, 925, 955, and 980 nm), and short-wave infrared (1355, 1420, 1595, 1600, 1605, and 1610 nm) regions were identified. The R² and RMSE of the model were 0.50 and 1.67 g.kg-¹, respectively. The adjusted R² and RMSE of the models for Piracicaba, Jaú, and Santa Maria were 0.31 (unreliable) and 1.30 g.kg-¹, 0.53 and 1.96 g.kg-¹, and 0.54 and 1.46 g.kg-¹, respectively. Our results showed that canopy hyperspectral reflectance can estimate leaf nitrogen concentrations and manage nitrogen application in sugarcane.

A cana-de-açúcar se destaca como uma das fontes de energia renovável frente às estratégias para reduzir a emissão de gases causadores do efeito estufa. O nitrogênio é um dos mais significativos devido ao seu impacto no crescimento de folhas e colmos. Portanto, o monitoramento eficiente do nitrogênio aplicado é essencial e o sensoriamento remoto se apresenta como uma alternativa na melhoria do gerenciamento da adubação. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo selecionar comprimentos de onda a partir de dados hiperespectrais de dossel da cana-de-açúcar para geração de modelos na predição da concentração de Nitrogênio. O estudo foi realizado em experimentos de campo instalados nos municípios de Piracicaba, Jaú e Santa Maria da Serra, estado São Paulo, na safra 2013/2014. Cada experimento foi alocado em blocos ao acaso, com parcelas subdivididas e quatro repetições, com variedades de cana-de-açúcar na parcela (três variedades por local, sendo a SP 81-3250 comum à todos) e doses de nitrogênio (0, 50, 100 e 150 kg.ha-1) na subparcela. Na seleção dos comprimentos de onda que melhor se correlacionam com o TFN foi utilizada a metodologia sPLS. Posteriormente, foi realizada a combinação linear dos comprimentos de onda selecionados pela metodologia sPLS, por meio de Regressão Linear Múltipla por Stepwise (SMLR). Foram identificadas bandas importantes nas regiões do visível (700 a 705 nm), red-edge(710 a 720 nm), infravermelho próximo (725, 925, 955 e 980 nm) e infravermelho de ondas curtas (1355, 1420, 1595, 1600, 1605 e 1610 nm). O modelo de predição de TFN teve valores de R² de 0,50 e o RMSE de 1,67 g.kg-¹. Os modelos gerados para Piracicaba, Jaú e Santa Maria obtiveram R² ajustados e RMSE, respectivamente, de 0,31 considerado não confiável (1,30 g.kg-¹), 0,53 (1,96 g.kg-¹) e 0,54 (1,46 g.kg-¹). Os sensores hiperespectrais de dossel podem ser utilizados para predição do TFN e monitoramento de aplicação de nitrogênio em cana-de-açúcar.

Meteorological factors responsible for the growth and development of sugarcane at two locations in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Fatores meteorológicos responsáveis pelo crescimento e desenvolvimento da cana-de-açúcar em dois locais do Rio Grande do Sul

This study determined the meteorological variable that most contribute to the productivity of sugarcane stalks in the northwest and central regions of Rio Grande do Sul. The following sugarcane genotypes were used: UFSM XIKA FW, UFSM LUCI FW, UFSM PRETA FW, UFSM DINA FW, UFSM MARI FW, and IAC87-3396. The UFSM cultivars originate from a mutation process in the breeding program conducted at the Federal University of Santa Maria, Frederico Westphalen campus, and have low temperature tolerance. The productivity-associated morphological characters included in the models were average stem diameter, average stem number per meter of furrow, and average stem height. The following meteorological variables were used: minimum air temperature, precipitation, incident solar radiation, and accumulated thermal sum. Pearson’s correlation, canonical correlations, and Stepwise regression were performed between morphological characters and meteorological variables: minimum air temperature had the greatest influence on sugarcane productivity in the studied regions, and accumulated thermal sum showed the highest correlation and contributed most to stem diameter and average stem height. Thus, the models indicated that the growth of sugarcane is positively associated with the accumulated thermal sum, and sugarcane can be cultivated at the studied regions.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a variável meteorológica com maior contribuição na produtividade de colmos de cana-de-açúcar na região noroeste e central do Rio Grande do Sul. Os genótipos de cana-de-açúcar utilizados foram: UFSM XIKA FW, UFSM LUCI FW, UFSM PRETA FW, UFSM DINA FW, UFSM MARI FW, IAC87-3396. As cultivares UFSM são provenientes do processo de mutação do programa de melhoramento da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, campus de Frederico Westphalen, e possuem tolerância a baixas temperaturas. Os caracteres morfológicos responsáveis pela produtividade utilizados nos modelos foram diâmetro médio de colmo, número médio de colmos por metro de sulco e estatura média de colmos. As variáveis meteorológicas utilizadas foram a temperatura mínima do ar, precipitação pluviométrica, radiação solar incidente e soma térmica acumulada. Foi realizada a correlação de Pearson, correlações canônicas e regressão de Stepwise entre os caracteres morfológicos e as variáveis meteorológicas, nos quais foi constado que a temperatura mínima do ar é a variável com maior influência na produtividade da cana-de-açúcar nas regiões estudadas e, que a soma térmica acumulada é a variável com maior correlação e contribuição no diâmetro de colmo e estatura média dos colmos. Desse modo, os modelos indicam que o crescimento da cana-de-açúcar responde de forma positiva a soma térmica acumulada, e as regiões em estudo apresentam potencial para o cultivo da cana-de-açúcar.

Meteorological factors responsible for the growth and development of sugarcane at two locations in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Fatores meteorológicos responsáveis pelo crescimento e desenvolvimento da cana-de-açúcar em dois locais do Rio Grande do Sul

ABSTRACT: This study determined the meteorological variable that most contribute to the productivity of sugarcane stalks in the northwest and central regions of Rio Grande do Sul. The following sugarcane genotypes were used: UFSM XIKA FW, UFSM LUCI FW, UFSM PRETA FW, UFSM DINA FW, UFSM MARI FW, and IAC87-3396. The UFSM cultivars originate from a mutation process in the breeding program conducted at the Federal University of Santa Maria, Frederico Westphalen campus, and have low temperature tolerance. The productivity-associated morphological characters included in the models were average stem diameter, average stem number per meter of furrow, and average stem height. The following meteorological variables were used: minimum air temperature, precipitation, incident solar radiation, and accumulated thermal sum. Pearson's correlation, canonical correlations, and Stepwise regression were performed between morphological characters and meteorological variables: minimum air temperature had the greatest influence on sugarcane productivity in the studied regions, and accumulated thermal sum showed the highest correlation and contributed most to stem diameter and average stem height. Thus, the models indicated that the growth of sugarcane is positively associated with the accumulated thermal sum, and sugarcane can be cultivated at the studied regions.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a variável meteorológica com maior contribuição na produtividade de colmos de cana-de-açúcar na região noroeste e central do Rio Grande do Sul. Os genótipos de cana-de-açúcar utilizados foram: UFSM XIKA FW, UFSM LUCI FW, UFSM PRETA FW, UFSM DINA FW, UFSM MARI FW, IAC87-3396. As cultivares UFSM são provenientes do processo de mutação do programa de melhoramento da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, campus de Frederico Westphalen, e possuem tolerância a baixas temperaturas. Os caracteres morfológicos responsáveis pela produtividade utilizados nos modelos foram diâmetro médio de colmo, número médio de colmos por metro de sulco e estatura média de colmos. As variáveis meteorológicas utilizadas foram a temperatura mínima do ar, precipitação pluviométrica, radiação solar incidente e soma térmica acumulada. Foi realizada a correlação de Pearson, correlações canônicas e regressão de Stepwise entre os caracteres morfológicos e as variáveis meteorológicas, nos quais foi constado que a temperatura mínima do ar é a variável com maior influência na produtividade da cana-de-açúcar nas regiões estudadas e, que a soma térmica acumulada é a variável com maior correlação e contribuição no diâmetro de colmo e estatura média dos colmos. Desse modo, os modelos indicam que o crescimento da cana-de-açúcar responde de forma positiva a soma térmica acumulada, e as regiões em estudo apresentam potencial para o cultivo da cana-de-açúcar.

Meteorological factors responsible for the growth and development of sugarcane at two locations in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Fatores meteorológicos responsáveis pelo crescimento e desenvolvimento da cana-de-açúcar em dois locais do Rio Grande do Sul

This study determined the meteorological variable that most contribute to the productivity of sugarcane stalks in the northwest and central regions of Rio Grande do Sul. The following sugarcane genotypes were used: UFSM XIKA FW, UFSM LUCI FW, UFSM PRETA FW, UFSM DINA FW, UFSM MARI FW, and IAC87-3396. The UFSM cultivars originate from a mutation process in the breeding program conducted at the Federal University of Santa Maria, Frederico Westphalen campus, and have low temperature tolerance. The productivity-associated morphological characters included in the models were average stem diameter, average stem number per meter of furrow, and average stem height. The following meteorological variables were used: minimum air temperature, precipitation, incident solar radiation, and accumulated thermal sum. Pearsons correlation, canonical correlations, and Stepwise regression were performed between morphological characters and meteorological variables: minimum air temperature had the greatest influence on sugarcane productivity in the studied regions, and accumulated thermal sum showed the highest correlation and contributed most to stem diameter and average stem height. Thus, the models indicated that the growth of sugarcane is positively associated with the accumulated thermal sum, and sugarcane can be cultivated at the studied regions.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a variável meteorológica com maior contribuição na produtividade de colmos de cana-de-açúcar na região noroeste e central do Rio Grande do Sul. Os genótipos de cana-de-açúcar utilizados foram: UFSM XIKA FW, UFSM LUCI FW, UFSM PRETA FW, UFSM DINA FW, UFSM MARI FW, IAC87-3396. As cultivares UFSM são provenientes do processo de mutação do programa de melhoramento da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, campus de Frederico Westphalen, e possuem tolerância a baixas temperaturas. Os caracteres morfológicos responsáveis pela produtividade utilizados nos modelos foram diâmetro médio de colmo, número médio de colmos por metro de sulco e estatura média de colmos. As variáveis meteorológicas utilizadas foram a temperatura mínima do ar, precipitação pluviométrica, radiação solar incidente e soma térmica acumulada. Foi realizada a correlação de Pearson, correlações canônicas e regressão de Stepwise entre os caracteres morfológicos e as variáveis meteorológicas, nos quais foi constado que a temperatura mínima do ar é a variável com maior influência na produtividade da cana-de-açúcar nas regiões estudadas e, que a soma térmica acumulada é a variável com maior correlação e contribuição no diâmetro de colmo e estatura média dos colmos. Desse modo, os modelos indicam que o crescimento da cana-de-açúcar responde de forma positiva a soma térmica acumulada, e as regiões em estudo apresentam potencial para o cultivo da cana-de-açúcar.(AU)

Logistic model to selection of energy cane clones / Modelo logístico na seleção de clones de cana de energia

Logistic regression analysis is a technique that may aid genetic breeding programs in the selection of clones, especially in the early stages where experimental accuracy is low. This research aimed to identify the most important agronomic traits for energy cane clonal selection, and to verify the efficiency of the logistic model in predicting the genotypes to be selected. Evaluations were carried out on 220 clones in the first ratoon. The data were subjected to binary logistic regression analysis. Stalk number per meter was the most important trait in the selection of energy cane clones. In addition, plants with lower grade for smut incidence had a greater chance of being selected. The predictive capacities of the qualitative and quantitative models were 94% and 88%, respectively. The use of a qualitative model proved to be effective at predicting the number of energy cane genotypes to be selected and could be used as a selection strategy.(AU)

A análise de regressão logística é uma técnica que pode auxiliar programas de melhoramento genético na seleção de clones, especialmente nos estágios iniciais, em que a precisão experimental é baixa. Este trabalho teve como objetivo identificar os principais caracteres agronômicos para a seleção clonal de cana energia e verificar a eficiência do modelo logístico na predição dos genótipos a serem selecionados. As avaliações foram realizadas em 220 clones na primeira soca. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de regressão logística binária. O número de colmos por metro foi um caractere de maior importância na seleção de clones de cana energia. Além disso, os clones com nota menor para incidência de carvão tiveram maior chance de serem selecionados. As capacidades preditivas dos modelos qualitativos e quantitativos foram de 94% e 88%, respectivamente. O uso de um modelo qualitativo mostrou-se eficaz na previsão do número de genótipos de cana energia a serem selecionados e pode ser usado como estratégia de seleção.(AU)

Selection of sugarcane families and clones under cold stress / Seleção de famílias e clones de cana-de-açúcar sob estresse pelo frio

The purpose of this study was to select cold-tolerant sugarcane families and clones. Evaluations were carried out during three selection phases in the municipality of Pelotas, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The experiments were arranged in an incomplete block design, with initially 4,452 seedlings of 53 full-sib families. Aside from the traits soluble solids content (BRX), tons of stalks per hectare (TSH) and tons of brixper hectare (TBH), the survival of the apical bud (ABS) was evaluated in the first selection stage (T1) of the breeding program. At the end of three selection phases, 15 clones of 14 of the 53 families evaluated in the first phase (T1) were selected for the experimental phase. Of these, the clones RS/PR126066, RS/PR126044, RS/PR126052, RS/PR126007 and RS/PR126033, had a good performance for apical bud survival in the first selection phase.(AU)

O objetivo desse trabalho foi selecionar famílias e clones de cana-de-açúcar tolerantes ao estresse por frio. As avaliações ocorreram durante três fases de seleção no município de Pelotas, no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Os experimentos foram conduzidos no delineamento de blocos incompletos, sendo inicialmente composto por 4.452 seedlings oriundos de 53 famílias de irmãos completos. Além dos caracteres teor de sólidos solúveis (BRIX), tonelada de colmos por hectare (TCH) e tonelada de brix por hectare (TBH), foi avaliada a sobrevivência do meristema apical (GEM) na primeira fase de seleção (T1) do programa de melhoramento genético. Ao final de três fases de seleção, 15 clones pertencentes a 14 das 53 famílias avaliadas na primeira fase (T1) foram selecionados para a fase de experimentação, destes, destacam-se: RS/PR126066, RS/PR126044, RS/PR126052, RS/PR126007 e RS/PR126033, pois além de apresentar desempenho satisfatório para os caracteres TCH e TBH, foram avaliados com notas máximas (N4 e N5) para sobrevivência de gema apical no primeiro ciclo de seleção.(AU)

Reaction of sugarcane genotypes to brown and to orange rust by leaf whorl inoculation / Reação de genótipos de cana-de-açúcar às ferrugens marrom e alaranjada por inoculação no cartucho foliar

In this research eleven sugarcane genotypes were classified in relation to their resistance to brown rust, and eleven to their resistance to orange rust. Artificial inoculation was carried out in the leaf whorl of 165-day-old plants in the city of Paranavaí, Paraná State, Brazil, in 2017. The evaluation was performed 30 days after inoculation, using a rating scale. Among the genotypes tested for brown rust, four were classified as susceptible, six as moderately susceptible and one presented moderate resistance. For orange rust, three genotypes were classified as susceptible, seven as moderately susceptible and one as moderately resistant. The evaluation and classification of the reaction of sugarcane genotypes to the rusts is an important tool that assist in preliminary trials and selection of promising genotypes for more advanced stages of breeding programs and provides information to producers on the choice of cultivars to be planted.(AU)

Neste trabalho onze genótipos de cana-de-açúcar foram classificados em relação à sua resistência à ferrugem marrom, e onze quanto à resistência à ferrugem alaranjada. Foi realizada a inoculação no cartucho foliar de colmos com 165 dias, no município de Paranavaí, PR, em 2017. A avaliação foi feita aos 30 dias após a inoculação, utilizando uma escala de notas. Dos genótipos avaliados para ferrugem marrom, quatro foram classificados como suscetíveis, seis como moderadamente suscetíveis e um apresentou resistência moderada. Para a ferrugem alaranjada, três genótipos foram classificados como suscetíveis, sete como moderadamente suscetíveis e um como moderadamente resistente. A avaliação e classificação da reação de genótipos de cana-de-açúcar às ferrugens é uma ferramenta importante que auxilia em ensaios preliminares, na escolha de genótipos promissores para fases mais avançadas dos programas de melhoramento além de fornecer informações aos produtores na seleção das cultivares que serão plantadas.(AU)

Root growth and antioxidant enzyme responses to aluminium stress in sugarcane / Crescimento radicular e resposta de enzimas antioxidantes ao estresse por alumínio em cana-de-açúcar

Aluminium (Al) toxicity in acid soils is a major abiotic stress that can limit plant production worldwide. Al toxicity directly inhibits root development and exacerbates oxidative stress in the plant. Sugarcane is mostly cultivated in tropical regions and is often exposed to phytotoxic concentrations of soil Al. In this study, our objectives were to evaluate nine sugarcane cultivars on their tolerance to Al in a hydroponic system, investigating the effects of 143µM {Al3+} on root growth and on activity of the antioxidant enzymes ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The screening method proposed was suitable for a rapid, reliable and reproducible procedure of the sugarcane cultivars. Exposure to Al for three days altered root growth and activity of enzymes of the nine sugarcane cultivars. However, the magnitude of the alterations varied significantly among cultivars. The cultivar RB928064 was classified as Al-tolerant and the cultivar RB835486 as Al-sensitive. Increases in enzyme activity after Al exposure varied from 4 to 46%, with average increases of 19% in APX, 20% in CAT, and 8% in SOD. The variations induced by Al in enzyme activity, however, did not correlate significantly with those variations induced by Al in the root growth.

A toxidez por alumínio (Al) em solos ácidos é um dos principais estresses abióticos que podem limitara produção vegetal pelo mundo todo. A toxidez por Al inibe diretamente o desenvolvimento radicular e aumenta a produção de espécies reativas de oxigênio na planta. A cana-de-açúcar é mais cultivada em regiões tropicais e frequentemente está exposta a concentrações fitotóxicas de Al no solo. Neste estudo, nossos objetivos foram avaliar a tolerância ao Al de nove cultivares de cana-de-açúcar em um sistema hidropônico e investigar os efeitos de 143µM {Al3+} sobre o crescimento radicular e a atividade das enzimas antioxidantes ascorbato peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT) e superóxido dismutase (SOD). O método de triagem proposto foi adequado para a avaliação de tolerância ao Al de forma rápida, confiável e reprodutível. A exposição ao Al por três dias alterou o crescimento radicular e a atividade das enzimas nas nove cultivares de cana-de-açúcar. Entretanto, a magnitude das alterações variou significativamente entre as cultivares. A cultivar RB928064 foi classificada como tolerante e a cultivar RB835486 como sensível ao Al. Os incrementos de atividade enzimática após exposição ao Al variaram entre 4 e 46%,com incrementos médios de 19% para APX, 20% para CAT, e 8% para SOD. As variações induzidas pelo Al sobre a atividade enzimática, entretanto, não apresentaram correlações significativas com aquelas induzidas pelo Al sobre o crescimento radicular.

Root growth and antioxidant enzyme responses to aluminium stress in sugarcane / Crescimento radicular e resposta de enzimas antioxidantes ao estresse por alumínio em cana-de-açúcar

Aluminium (Al) toxicity in acid soils is a major abiotic stress that can limit plant production worldwide. Al toxicity directly inhibits root development and exacerbates oxidative stress in the plant. Sugarcane is mostly cultivated in tropical regions and is often exposed to phytotoxic concentrations of soil Al. In this study, our objectives were to evaluate nine sugarcane cultivars on their tolerance to Al in a hydroponic system, investigating the effects of 143µM {Al3+} on root growth and on activity of the antioxidant enzymes ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The screening method proposed was suitable for a rapid, reliable and reproducible procedure of the sugarcane cultivars. Exposure to Al for three days altered root growth and activity of enzymes of the nine sugarcane cultivars. However, the magnitude of the alterations varied significantly among cultivars. The cultivar RB928064 was classified as Al-tolerant and the cultivar RB835486 as Al-sensitive. Increases in enzyme activity after Al exposure varied from 4 to 46%, with average increases of 19% in APX, 20% in CAT, and 8% in SOD. The variations induced by Al in enzyme activity, however, did not correlate significantly with those variations induced by Al in the root growth.(AU)

A toxidez por alumínio (Al) em solos ácidos é um dos principais estresses abióticos que podem limitara produção vegetal pelo mundo todo. A toxidez por Al inibe diretamente o desenvolvimento radicular e aumenta a produção de espécies reativas de oxigênio na planta. A cana-de-açúcar é mais cultivada em regiões tropicais e frequentemente está exposta a concentrações fitotóxicas de Al no solo. Neste estudo, nossos objetivos foram avaliar a tolerância ao Al de nove cultivares de cana-de-açúcar em um sistema hidropônico e investigar os efeitos de 143µM {Al3+} sobre o crescimento radicular e a atividade das enzimas antioxidantes ascorbato peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT) e superóxido dismutase (SOD). O método de triagem proposto foi adequado para a avaliação de tolerância ao Al de forma rápida, confiável e reprodutível. A exposição ao Al por três dias alterou o crescimento radicular e a atividade das enzimas nas nove cultivares de cana-de-açúcar. Entretanto, a magnitude das alterações variou significativamente entre as cultivares. A cultivar RB928064 foi classificada como tolerante e a cultivar RB835486 como sensível ao Al. Os incrementos de atividade enzimática após exposição ao Al variaram entre 4 e 46%,com incrementos médios de 19% para APX, 20% para CAT, e 8% para SOD. As variações induzidas pelo Al sobre a atividade enzimática, entretanto, não apresentaram correlações significativas com aquelas induzidas pelo Al sobre o crescimento radicular.(AU)

Herbicide selectivity in pre-sprouted seedlings of 'CTC14' sugarcane / Seletividade de herbicidas em mudas pré-brotadas de cana-de-açúcar 'CTC14'

A new sugarcane planting system, using pre-sprouted seedlings (PSS) to replace sugarcane stem fragments, substantiates the hypothesis of this study that there might be seedling toxicity by herbicides that are sprayed at pre-emergence in traditional systems. Therefore, the aim of this paper was to study the selectivity of herbicides applied at pre-planting in PSS. A field experiment was conducted in a randomized block design, using seven treatments and four replications. Herbicides were sprayed and, 24 hours later, the seedlings were planted. At the beggining of seedling development, all herbicide treatments showed phytotoxicity, but the symptoms decreased with the growth and development of seedlings, with no difference in height, stem diameter, number of leaves, quantum efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) and dry matter of plants between treatments. There was also no significant difference in the yield and technological characteristics of stems. All herbicides used were selective to sugarcane seedlings when applied at pre-planting in the PSS system.(AU)

Um novo sistema de plantio de cana-de-açúcar, utilizando mudas pré-brotadas (MPB) em substituição aos fragmentos de colmos de cana, fundamenta a hipótese deste trabalho de que poderá haver intoxicação nas mudas pelos herbicidas aplicados na pré-emergência em sistemas tradicionais. Portanto, objetivou-se neste estudo verificar a seletividade de tratamentos herbicidas aplicados em pré-plantio de MPB. O experimento foi realizado a campo, em blocos randomizados, utilizando sete tratamentos em quatro amostras replicadas. Foi realizada a pulverização dos herbicidas e, após 24 horas, o plantio das mudas. No início do desenvolvimento das mudas, todos os tratamentos com herbicida causaram fitotoxicidade, mas com o crescimento e desenvolvimento das mudas, os sintomas foram diminuindo, não havendo diferença entre os tratamentos quanto à altura, o diâmetro de colmos, o número de folhas, a eficiência quântica do FII (Fv/Fm) e a matéria seca das plantas. Também não houve diferença significativa na produtividade e nas características tecnológicas dos colmos. Todos os herbicidas utilizados foram seletivos às mudas de cana-de-açúcar no sistema MPB quando aplicados no pré-plantio.(AU)

Herbicide selectivity in pre-sprouted seedlings of 'CTC14' sugarcane / Seletividade de herbicidas em mudas pré-brotadas de cana-de-açúcar 'CTC14'

A new sugarcane planting system, using pre-sprouted seedlings (PSS) to replace sugarcane stem fragments, substantiates the hypothesis of this study that there might be seedling toxicity by herbicides that are sprayed at pre-emergence in traditional systems. Therefore, the aim of this paper was to study the selectivity of herbicides applied at pre-planting in PSS. A field experiment was conducted in a randomized block design, using seven treatments and four replications. Herbicides were sprayed and, 24 hours later, the seedlings were planted. At the beggining of seedling development, all herbicide treatments showed phytotoxicity, but the symptoms decreased with the growth and development of seedlings, with no difference in height, stem diameter, number of leaves, quantum efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) and dry matter of plants between treatments. There was also no significant difference in the yield and technological characteristics of stems. All herbicides used were selective to sugarcane seedlings when applied at pre-planting in the PSS system.(AU)

Um novo sistema de plantio de cana-de-açúcar, utilizando mudas pré-brotadas (MPB) em substituição aos fragmentos de colmos de cana, fundamenta a hipótese deste trabalho de que poderá haver intoxicação nas mudas pelos herbicidas aplicados na pré-emergência em sistemas tradicionais. Portanto, objetivou-se neste estudo verificar a seletividade de tratamentos herbicidas aplicados em pré-plantio de MPB. O experimento foi realizado a campo, em blocos randomizados, utilizando sete tratamentos em quatro amostras replicadas. Foi realizada a pulverização dos herbicidas e, após 24 horas, o plantio das mudas. No início do desenvolvimento das mudas, todos os tratamentos com herbicida causaram fitotoxicidade, mas com o crescimento e desenvolvimento das mudas, os sintomas foram diminuindo, não havendo diferença entre os tratamentos quanto à altura, o diâmetro de colmos, o número de folhas, a eficiência quântica do FII (Fv/Fm) e a matéria seca das plantas. Também não houve diferença significativa na produtividade e nas características tecnológicas dos colmos. Todos os herbicidas utilizados foram seletivos às mudas de cana-de-açúcar no sistema MPB quando aplicados no pré-plantio.(AU)

Effect of previous soil management on sugarcane response to nitrogen fertilization

N Fertilizer recommendations must be improved to optimize N use efficiency (NUE) for bioenergy crops. A study was conducted to test the hypothesis that sites varying in historical usage of by-product differ in soil N-supplying power and sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) responsiveness to N fertilization. Our aim was to quantify soil N availability and N fertilizer rates, sources, and application timings for their effects on sugarcane yield and NUE. Three N response trials, each involving 0 to 200 kg N ha1, were conducted in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, at sites varying historically in the usage of vinasse. Before fertilizer application and at harvest, soil inorganic N content was quantified and potential N mineralization estimated by the Illinois Soil Nitrogen Test (ISNT); stalk yield and sugar content were measured at harvest and used to estimate NUE. Sugarcane showed significant response to N fertilization only at the sites with no history of vinasse usage. Reducing the N rate from 120 to 80 kg N ha1 showed limited potential for lowering yield (~ 1 %), while increasing the NUE by 54 %, which was far better than the 14 % increase achieved by modifying the N source or application timing. Monitoring inorganic N and ISNT levels over time to estimate soil N-supplying power has potential for predicting the responsiveness of sugarcane to N fertilization; however, ISNT interpretations must consider factors that impede mineralization or crop N utilization, such as soil acidity or a limitation on the availability of Ca or P. Soil N testing can help optimize NUE for sustainable bioenergy production.

Effect of previous soil management on sugarcane response to nitrogen fertilization

N Fertilizer recommendations must be improved to optimize N use efficiency (NUE) for bioenergy crops. A study was conducted to test the hypothesis that sites varying in historical usage of by-product differ in soil N-supplying power and sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) responsiveness to N fertilization. Our aim was to quantify soil N availability and N fertilizer rates, sources, and application timings for their effects on sugarcane yield and NUE. Three N response trials, each involving 0 to 200 kg N ha1, were conducted in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, at sites varying historically in the usage of vinasse. Before fertilizer application and at harvest, soil inorganic N content was quantified and potential N mineralization estimated by the Illinois Soil Nitrogen Test (ISNT); stalk yield and sugar content were measured at harvest and used to estimate NUE. Sugarcane showed significant response to N fertilization only at the sites with no history of vinasse usage. Reducing the N rate from 120 to 80 kg N ha1 showed limited potential for lowering yield (~ 1 %), while increasing the NUE by 54 %, which was far better than the 14 % increase achieved by modifying the N source or application timing. Monitoring inorganic N and ISNT levels over time to estimate soil N-supplying power has potential for predicting the responsiveness of sugarcane to N fertilization; however, ISNT interpretations must consider factors that impede mineralization or crop N utilization, such as soil acidity or a limitation on the availability of Ca or P. Soil N testing can help optimize NUE for sustainable bioenergy production.(AU)

Development of pre-sprouted seedlings (PSS) of sugarcane under different amounts of filter cake and application modes / Desenvolvimento de mudas pré-brotadas (MPB) de cana-de-açúcar sob diferentes quantidades de torta de filtro e modos de aplicação

The sugarcane pre-sprouted seedlings (PSS) system is a new multiplication technology that contributes to the rapid production of seedlings and is associated with a high standard of vegetal health, vigour and uniformity of planting, as well as a drastic reduction in the use of seedlings per area. Due to the high moisture required during the initial period of growth, the filter cake can be an ally in the development of this technology. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the development of sugarcane PSS, under different amounts of filter cake and application modes. The treatments included five doses of filter cake at 0, 7.5, 15, 30, and 45 t ha-¹ and two forms of application: depth (0.30 m) and surface. Once formed, the sugarcane PPS were planted in Eutroferric Red Latosol, with due treatments. For aerial development analyses, leaf area, stem length and diameter and shoot dry mass were evaluated at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 days after planting. The filter cake positively influenced the development of pre-sprouted seedlings, promoting greater leaf area and stalk diameter when applied on the surface. The dose of 30 t ha-¹ to the surface, provided 54% higher shoot dry weight and 56% more dry weight of roots compared to cultivation without its application, demonstrating its usefulness to improve the development of pre-sprouted seedlings.(AU)

O sistema de mudas pré-brotadas (MPB) de cana-de-açúcar é uma nova tecnologia de multiplicação que contribui para a rápida produção de mudas, associando elevado padrão de fitossanidade, vigor e uniformidade de plantio, bem como drástica redução na utilização de mudas por área. Por outro lado, a torta de filtro pode ser uma aliada no desenvolvimento dessa tecnologia que necessita de elevada umidade no período inicial de crescimento. Assim, esse trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o desenvolvimento de mudas pré-brotadas de cana-de-açúcar sob diferentes quantidades de torta de filtro e modos de aplicação. Os tratamentos foram cinco doses de torta de filtro, equivalentes a 0; 7,5; 15; 30; 45 ton. ha-¹ e duas formas de aplicação: em profundidade (0,30 m) e em superfície. Após a formação das MPB, essas foram plantadas em Latossolo Vermelho eutroférrico, com os devidos tratamentos. Para as análises de desenvolvimento aéreo foram avaliados em seis períodos: 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 dias após o plantio, a área foliar, comprimento e diâmetro de colmos e massa seca da parte aérea. A torta de filtro influenciou positivamente o desenvolvimento das mudas pré-brotadas promovendo maior área foliar e diâmetro de colmos quando aplicada em superfície. A dose 30 ton. ha-¹ em superfície proporcionou produção 54% maior de massa seca de parte aérea e 56% mais massa seca de raízes em comparação ao cultivo sem sua aplicação, podendo ser utilizada para melhor desenvolvimento de mudas pré-brotadas.(AU)

Straw removal of sugarcane from soil and its impacts on yield and industrial quality ratoons

ABSTRACT: Mechanical harvesting leaves in its wake a considerable amount of straw in the field, which can be effectively utilized to improve the soil condition and sugarcane yield. However, there is no specific information as to the quantity of straw mulch required to achieve such effects and as to whether it can be used in other sectors for bioelectricity and ethanol production. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of removing different amounts of straw from the field and its impact on the yield and industrial quality of sugarcane ratoons. The experiment was carried out on Rhodic soil where six treatments were evaluated including 0 %, 25 % (5 Mg ha1), 50 % (10 Mg ha1), 75 % (15 Mg ha1), 100 % (20 Mg ha1) straw on the soil surface and burned sugarcane (where 100 % of the straw was burned). The influence on yield and industrial quality was calculated using total soluble solids, Pol (Apparent sucrose content), apparent purity, total sugars, reducing sugars and fiber. Shifting the harvesting system from burned cane to growing under straw mulch improved crop yield as well as favoring sugar contents during water deficit conditions. The straw left on the soil did not affect industrial quality in any way during the trials; however, under drought conditions, treatments with 50 and 75 % of straw resulted in a 76 % higher yield compared to burned sugarcane, and 29 % more than the 0 %, 25 % to 100 % treatments of straw mulch thus favoring higher sugar production. The removal of 50 % of the straw caused no damage to the sugarcane crop.

Straw removal of sugarcane from soil and its impacts on yield and industrial quality ratoons

Mechanical harvesting leaves in its wake a considerable amount of straw in the field, which can be effectively utilized to improve the soil condition and sugarcane yield. However, there is no specific information as to the quantity of straw mulch required to achieve such effects and as to whether it can be used in other sectors for bioelectricity and ethanol production. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of removing different amounts of straw from the field and its impact on the yield and industrial quality of sugarcane ratoons. The experiment was carried out on Rhodic soil where six treatments were evaluated including 0 %, 25 % (5 Mg ha1), 50 % (10 Mg ha1), 75 % (15 Mg ha1), 100 % (20 Mg ha1) straw on the soil surface and burned sugarcane (where 100 % of the straw was burned). The influence on yield and industrial quality was calculated using total soluble solids, Pol (Apparent sucrose content), apparent purity, total sugars, reducing sugars and fiber. Shifting the harvesting system from burned cane to growing under straw mulch improved crop yield as well as favoring sugar contents during water deficit conditions. The straw left on the soil did not affect industrial quality in any way during the trials; however, under drought conditions, treatments with 50 and 75 % of straw resulted in a 76 % higher yield compared to burned sugarcane, and 29 % more than the 0 %, 25 % to 100 % treatments of straw mulch thus favoring higher sugar production. The removal of 50 % of the straw caused no damage to the sugarcane crop.(AU)