The light intensity in the cultivation environment and the impact of glyphosate on plants of the Urochloa genus.

The variation in light within the environment triggers morphophysiological changes in plants and can lead to distinct responses in sun-exposed or shaded plants to glyphosate. The response of Urochloa genotypes subjected to desiccation with 2160, 1622.4, 1080, 524.4, 273.6, and 0.0 g ha-1 of glyphosate was evaluated in full sun and shade conditions. Cayana grass, mulato II grass, and sabiá grass - hybrids recently launched on the market, in addition to palisade grass and congo grass were evaluated. Under full sun, we achieved control of congo grass using 1080 g ha-1 of glyphosate, while the other grasses required 2160 g ha-1. In the low-light environment, sabiá grass was effectively controlled with 524.4 g ha-1 of glyphosate, but the other grasses needed 273.6 g ha-1. In shading, compared to full sun, the savings with glyphosate were 75 and 76% for the control of congo grass and sabiá grass, respectively, and 87% for palisade grass, mulato II grass and cayana grass. Increasing glyphosate doses leads to a decline in the quantum efficiency of photosystem II and in the electron transport rate, especially in the shade. Urochloa genotypes are more sensitive to glyphosate in the shade, which must be considered when determining the herbicide dose.

Nutritional quality, nutrient uptake and biomass production of Pennisetum purpureum cv. King grass.

The research was conducted to determine the effects of cutting interval and fertilization on the nutritional quality, nutrient uptake, and biomass production of King grass. The experimental design was a randomized complete block, using 4 blocks and 8 treatments per block; treatments consisted of 4 ages of cutting (30, 45, 60, and 90 days), with fertilization and without fertilization. The results showed increases of up to 72,000 kg ha-1 year-1 of dry matter (DM) when fertilization was implemented. There was a significant reduction in with an increase in the cutting days (12.70-6.53% protein). Fiber increased (48.79-72.99% NDF) when fertilization treatments were included and cutting days increased. The elements that were included in fertilization (N, P, K) showed a higher foliar content and also presented a reduction in foliar content with growth of the plant. Treatments with fertilization showed a nutrient uptake increase for all the elements up to 60 days, where a reduction in uptake capacity was observed. King grass is a plant with a high nutrient uptake capacity and, therefore, with high biomass and nutrient production. This is an advantage since it can be used in multiple applications, such as animal feed, biofuel production, and as a substrate for biodigestion, among others.

Growth regulation of bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) and zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica) with glyphosate.

Glyphosate can generate positive effects on turfgrass maintenance as a form of growth control by decreasing the expenses associated with mowing. However, there is little information about the effects of this herbicide on turfgrasses. This study aimed to evaluate the response of bermudagrass and zoysiagrass to the herbicide glyphosate as a growth regulator. Two studies were performed in a greenhouse and repeated at different times. The treatments involved application of glyphosate at 10 different rates (0, 5.625, 11.25, 22.5, 45, 90, 180, 360, 720, and 1.440 g ae ha-1) with four replicates. Evaluations of green cover by digital analysis, injury, and plant height were performed at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after application, and shoot dry matter of clippings was determined for the last evaluation period. Bermudagrass and zoysiagrass presented variedtolerance to glyphosate toxicity. Overall, the digital analysis showed that green content was negatively influenced by the increase in visual injury caused by glyphosate application. Moreover, increasing the glyphosate rate decreased plant height and shoot dry matter in both turfgrasses. Glyphosate application rates up to 45 g ae ha-1 for bermudagrass and 90 g ae ha-1 for zoysiagrass decreased plant growth without affecting the factors analyzed in this study.

Stimulation action of mefenpyr-diethyl on soybean, wheat, and signal grass plants.

Mefenpyr-diethyl is a safener used for protection of cereal plants under applications of ACCase and ALS inhibitor herbicides. Current studies are describing safeners using a new approach, relating these products to stimulation action on plants. The objective of this work was to evaluate the stimulation action of mefenpyr-diethyl on soybean, wheat, and signal grass plants. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, under a completely randomized design, with four replications, in two seasons. Mefenpyr-diethyl (50 g a.i. ha-1) was applied on soybean plants (at V4 stage), and wheat and signal grass plants (both with 15 cm height). The variables evaluated were plant height, dry matter, and lipid content of the three species, and number of tillers of wheat and signal grass plants. The application of mefenpyr-diethyl in the first season increased the number of tillers of wheat and height of soybean plants. The soybean presented 24 and 14% more dry matter than the control in the first and second season, respectively, and 0.5% more lipid content in plants treated with mefenpyr-diethyl. These results show the stimulation action of mefenpyr-diethyl on wheat and soybean plants, denoting its potential for growth promotion and indicating the need for studies with this approach. No effect was found for the signal grass plants.

Glyphosate in the production and forage quality of marandu grass / Glifosato na produção e qualidade de forragem de capim marandu

The drift of the herbicide glyphosate, used for desiccating crops or controlling weeds, can result in growth promoting or non-target plant development effects. Thus, it is possible to use the compound to increase the biomass of forage through the hormone effect. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of sublethal doses of glyphosate on the production of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu (Marandu grass) and its nutritional quality in ruminants. The design used was completely randomized, with five replications in a factorial scheme. The treatments used were as follows: control (without glyphosate application) and four sublethal doses of glyphosate (4, 10, 14, and 20 g ha-¹ of the acid equivalent). The monthly collections consisted of collecting the plant material (0.20 m) from the surface, comprising of leaves and pseudocolmos (stem and leaf sheath) to determine the dry matter production and forage chemical-bromatological parameters. The results showed that leaf/stem ratio, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber were affected exclusively by the harvest factor. The hormone effect of the herbicide occurs in the production of dry matter and lignin in the evaluated subdoses. For crude protein, there was an interaction between the factor doses and harvest, due to the effect of glyphosate and the management applied to the harvests, showing that the sublethal doses of glyphosate promoted the production of dry matter and the food quality of Marandu grass.(AU)

A deriva do herbicida glifosato, usado para dessecação de culturas ou no controle de plantas daninhas, pode resultar em efeitos promotores de crescimento ou desenvolvimento de plantas não alvo. Assim, surge a possibilidade de utilização do composto para incremento da biomassa de forrageiras, por efeito hormese. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da aplicação de doses subletais de glifosato na produção de Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu (capim Marandu) e sobre a qualidade nutricional para ruminantes. O delineamento utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado com cinco repetições, em esquema fatorial. Os tratamentos utilizados foram: controle (sem aplicação de glifosato) e quatro doses subletais de glifosato (4, 10, 14 e 20 g ha-¹ do equivalente ácido). As coletas mensais consistiram do recolhimento do material vegetal a 0,20 m da superfície, compreendendo folhas e pseudocolmos (colmo e bainha foliar) para determinação da produção de matéria seca e de parâmetros químico-bromatológicos da forragem. Os resultados mostraram que relação folha/colmo, fibra em detergente neutro e fibra em detergente ácido sofreram efeitos exclusivamente do fator corte. O efeito hormese do herbicida ocorre na produção de matéria seca e lignina nas subdoses avaliadas. Para proteína bruta houve interação entre os fatores doses e cortes, por efeito do glifosato e do manejo aplicado nos cortes, mostrando que as doses subletais do glifosato promovem a produção de matéria seca e a qualidade alimentar do capim Marandu.(AU)

Glyphosate in the production and forage quality of marandu grass / Glifosato na produção e qualidade de forragem de capim marandu

The drift of the herbicide glyphosate, used for desiccating crops or controlling weeds, can result in growth promoting or non-target plant development effects. Thus, it is possible to use the compound to increase the biomass of forage through the hormone effect. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of sublethal doses of glyphosate on the production of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu (Marandu grass) and its nutritional quality in ruminants. The design used was completely randomized, with five replications in a factorial scheme. The treatments used were as follows: control (without glyphosate application) and four sublethal doses of glyphosate (4, 10, 14, and 20 g ha-¹ of the acid equivalent). The monthly collections consisted of collecting the plant material (0.20 m) from the surface, comprising of leaves and pseudocolmos (stem and leaf sheath) to determine the dry matter production and forage chemical-bromatological parameters. The results showed that leaf/stem ratio, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber were affected exclusively by the harvest factor. The hormone effect of the herbicide occurs in the production of dry matter and lignin in the evaluated subdoses. For crude protein, there was an interaction between the factor doses and harvest, due to the effect of glyphosate and the management applied to the harvests, showing that the sublethal doses of glyphosate promoted the production of dry matter and the food quality of Marandu grass.

A deriva do herbicida glifosato, usado para dessecação de culturas ou no controle de plantas daninhas, pode resultar em efeitos promotores de crescimento ou desenvolvimento de plantas não alvo. Assim, surge a possibilidade de utilização do composto para incremento da biomassa de forrageiras, por efeito hormese. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da aplicação de doses subletais de glifosato na produção de Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu (capim Marandu) e sobre a qualidade nutricional para ruminantes. O delineamento utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado com cinco repetições, em esquema fatorial. Os tratamentos utilizados foram: controle (sem aplicação de glifosato) e quatro doses subletais de glifosato (4, 10, 14 e 20 g ha-¹ do equivalente ácido). As coletas mensais consistiram do recolhimento do material vegetal a 0,20 m da superfície, compreendendo folhas e pseudocolmos (colmo e bainha foliar) para determinação da produção de matéria seca e de parâmetros químico-bromatológicos da forragem. Os resultados mostraram que relação folha/colmo, fibra em detergente neutro e fibra em detergente ácido sofreram efeitos exclusivamente do fator corte. O efeito hormese do herbicida ocorre na produção de matéria seca e lignina nas subdoses avaliadas. Para proteína bruta houve interação entre os fatores doses e cortes, por efeito do glifosato e do manejo aplicado nos cortes, mostrando que as doses subletais do glifosato promovem a produção de matéria seca e a qualidade alimentar do capim Marandu.

Evaluation of the Phytotoxicity of Urochloa humidicola Roots by Bioassays and Microscopic Analysis. Characterization of New Compounds.

Herbicides are a key element in agriculture but they do cause environmental problems and natural alternatives are being sought. In this context, invasive plants could provide an as yet unexplored source for the development of future herbicides. Urochloa humidicola has great invasive potential in Brazilian environments as it hampers the establishment of other plants. The phytotoxicity of U. humidicola root extracts has been evaluated, and the major components have been identified. The phytotoxicity of the extract was assessed in the wheat coleoptile assay on seeds of troublesome weeds and on Anadenanthera colubrina, a tree species used in ecological restoration programs. The ethyl acetate extract showed the highest activity, and the most affected weeds were E. crus-galli, M. maximus, and A. viridis with the latter weed more affected by the extract than by the herbicide Logran. Microscopic ultrastructural analysis of A. colubrina roots indicated possible signals of cell death. Seven compounds were identified in the ethyl acetate extract of which one diterpene and four saponins are new. Six of these compounds were tested in the wheat coleoptile bioassay. The most active were diterpene 1 and saponins 2, 3, and 6. The phytotoxic activity of U. humidicola explains the issues observed in ecological restoration with A. colubrina in the presence of Urochloa species, and its effect on weeds reinforces its potential use in agriculture.

Green leaves and seeds alcoholic extract controls Sporobulus indicus germination in laboratory conditions.

High seed production makes Sporobolus indicus var. pyramidalis a difficult to control invasive grassland plant. The objective of the present study was to investigate the bioactivity of Cyperus rotundus, Phyllanthus tenellus and Ricinus communis green leaf extracts and of Carica papaya seeds on S. indicus germination without breaking dormancy, simulating the field conditions. The ethanolic extract bioactivity of C. rotundus, P. tenellus, R. communis green leaves and C. papaya seeds, at concentrations of 25, 50 and 75% in S. indicus germination was evaluated. Carotenoids, flavonoids, soluble phenolic compounds and total tannins were quantified in the extracts. The chemical component concentrations varied between alcoholic extracts. The P. tenellus extracts at all dilutions and those of R. communis and C. papaya at 75% completely suppressed S. indicus seed germination at five and ten days which can be attributed to their high tannin concentration, total phenolic compounds and flavonoids.

Hormetic effect of glyphosate on Urochloa decumbens plants.

Urochloa decumbens plants may be reached by herbicide drift from applications of glyphosate from neighboring areas or by variations during applications. Considering the different phenological stages and size of plants in these areas, the amount of active ingredient that reaches the plants probably varies. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the application of different doses of glyphosate on U. decumbens plants. Two greenhouse experiments were conducted with two replications at different times. The first experiment evaluated the biological response of U. decumbens plants to glyphosate doses (0, 2.81, 5.63, 11.25, 22.5, 45, 90, 180, 360, 720, and 1,440 g a.e. ha-1), with six replications. The second experiment evaluated the response of U. decumbens plants to the application of a selected low dose of 11.25 g a.e. ha-1. Evaluations of injury were performed at 0, 7, 14, and 21 days after application, and dry weight of plants was determined for each evaluation period. U. decumbens plants increased in dry weight when using the glyphosate dose of 11.25 g a.e. ha-1. However, plants had different responses to the application of this low dose. It can promote both stimulation and inhibition of plant growth.

Growth bioestimulant in marandu grass cultivated in the amazon biome / Bioestimulante em pasto de marandu cultivado no bioma amazônico

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a biostimulant on the morphogenesis, structure, productivity, and chemical composition of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu, managed under two nitrogen fertilization levels. Collections were carried out during the dry (June to September) and the rainy season (September to April). The experimental area was divided into 48 plots of 8 m² each, using a randomized block design in a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement (0, 1, 2, and 3 L ha−¹ of biostimulant × 50 and 150 kg N ha−¹ year−¹), and subdivided over time into dry and rainy seasons. Treatments were applied in a single dose. An interaction was observed between biostimulant and nitrogen fertilization for the total forage dry matter production and daily forage dry matter production, in which an increase of 30.1 and 25.3% was observed in the total dry matter production and 33.7 and 27.6% in the daily dry matter production when using 1 and 2 L ha−¹ of biostimulant, respectively, compared to the non-application of biostimulant and with fertilization of 50 kg N ha−¹ year−¹. The leaf life-span showed a triple interaction (biostimulant × nitrogen fertilization × season), and a decomposition of the interaction showed that the fertilization of 150 kg N ha−¹ year−¹ provided a shorter leaf life-span during the dry season, with no difference for the other combinations of factors. No interactions were found for the chemical-bromatological composition, with no differences for the biostimulant application. Biostimulant doses of 1 and 2 L ha−¹ increase the dry matter production per hectare in the nitrogen fertilization of 50 kg N ha−¹ year−¹, but its action is not effective with the highest nitrogen fertilization (150 kg N ha−¹ year−¹).(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de um bioestimulante sobre a morfogênese, estrutura, produtividade e composição química do capim de Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu, manejado sob dois níveis de adubação nitrogenada. As coletas foram realizadas no período de seca (junho até setembro) e período chuvoso (setembro a abril). A área experimental foi dividida em 48 parcelas de 8 m² cada, sendo utilizado o delineamento em blocos ao acaso em arranjo fatorial 4×2 (0, 1, 2 e 3 L ha-¹ de Bioestimulante x 50 e 150 kg de N ha-¹ ano-¹) e subdividida ao longo do tempo, em período de seca e período chuvoso. As aplicações dos tratamentos foram feitas em dose única. Houve interação entre bioestimulante e adubação nitrogenada para a Produção de massa seca de forragem total e produção de massa seca de forragem diária, em que observou-se aumento de 30,1% e 25,3% na produção de matéria seca total e de 33,7% e 27,6% na produção de matéria seca por dia, ao utilizar 1 e 2 L ha-¹ de bioestimulante, respectivamente, quando comparado a não aplicação de bioestimulante e com adubação de 50 kg de N ha-¹ ano-¹. A duração de vida das folhas (DVF) apresentou interação tripla (Bioestimulante x Adubação nitrogenada x Período) sendo que o desdobramento da interação demonstrou que a adubação de 150 kg de N ha-¹ ano-¹ proporcionou menor duração de vida das folhas, no período de seca sem apresentar diferença para as demais combinações de fatores. Não foi observado interações para composição químico-bromatológica e não houve diferenças com a aplicação do bioestimulante. As dosagens de 1 e2 L ha-¹ do bioestimulante, aumenta a produção de matéria seca por hectare na adubação nitrogenadade 50 kg de N ha-¹ ano-¹, porém com a adubação nitrogenada mais alta (150 kg ha ano-¹ de N) a sua ação não é efetiva.(AU)

Growth bioestimulant in marandu grass cultivated in the amazon biome / Bioestimulante em pasto de marandu cultivado no bioma amazônico

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a biostimulant on the morphogenesis, structure, productivity, and chemical composition of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu, managed under two nitrogen fertilization levels. Collections were carried out during the dry (June to September) and the rainy season (September to April). The experimental area was divided into 48 plots of 8 m² each, using a randomized block design in a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement (0, 1, 2, and 3 L ha−¹ of biostimulant × 50 and 150 kg N ha−¹ year−¹), and subdivided over time into dry and rainy seasons. Treatments were applied in a single dose. An interaction was observed between biostimulant and nitrogen fertilization for the total forage dry matter production and daily forage dry matter production, in which an increase of 30.1 and 25.3% was observed in the total dry matter production and 33.7 and 27.6% in the daily dry matter production when using 1 and 2 L ha−¹ of biostimulant, respectively, compared to the non-application of biostimulant and with fertilization of 50 kg N ha−¹ year−¹. The leaf life-span showed a triple interaction (biostimulant × nitrogen fertilization × season), and a decomposition of the interaction showed that the fertilization of 150 kg N ha−¹ year−¹ provided a shorter leaf life-span during the dry season, with no difference for the other combinations of factors. No interactions were found for the chemical-bromatological composition, with no differences for the biostimulant application. Biostimulant doses of 1 and 2 L ha−¹ increase the dry matter production per hectare in the nitrogen fertilization of 50 kg N ha−¹ year−¹, but its action is not effective with the highest nitrogen fertilization (150 kg N ha−¹ year−¹).

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de um bioestimulante sobre a morfogênese, estrutura, produtividade e composição química do capim de Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu, manejado sob dois níveis de adubação nitrogenada. As coletas foram realizadas no período de seca (junho até setembro) e período chuvoso (setembro a abril). A área experimental foi dividida em 48 parcelas de 8 m² cada, sendo utilizado o delineamento em blocos ao acaso em arranjo fatorial 4×2 (0, 1, 2 e 3 L ha-¹ de Bioestimulante x 50 e 150 kg de N ha-¹ ano-¹) e subdividida ao longo do tempo, em período de seca e período chuvoso. As aplicações dos tratamentos foram feitas em dose única. Houve interação entre bioestimulante e adubação nitrogenada para a Produção de massa seca de forragem total e produção de massa seca de forragem diária, em que observou-se aumento de 30,1% e 25,3% na produção de matéria seca total e de 33,7% e 27,6% na produção de matéria seca por dia, ao utilizar 1 e 2 L ha-¹ de bioestimulante, respectivamente, quando comparado a não aplicação de bioestimulante e com adubação de 50 kg de N ha-¹ ano-¹. A duração de vida das folhas (DVF) apresentou interação tripla (Bioestimulante x Adubação nitrogenada x Período) sendo que o desdobramento da interação demonstrou que a adubação de 150 kg de N ha-¹ ano-¹ proporcionou menor duração de vida das folhas, no período de seca sem apresentar diferença para as demais combinações de fatores. Não foi observado interações para composição químico-bromatológica e não houve diferenças com a aplicação do bioestimulante. As dosagens de 1 e2 L ha-¹ do bioestimulante, aumenta a produção de matéria seca por hectare na adubação nitrogenadade 50 kg de N ha-¹ ano-¹, porém com a adubação nitrogenada mais alta (150 kg ha ano-¹ de N) a sua ação não é efetiva.

NO3-/NH4+ ratios affect nutritional homeostasis and production of Tanzania guinea grass under Cu toxicity.

Nitrogen (N) can alleviate metal toxicity. However, as of yet, there have been no studies showing the efficacy of NO3-/NH4+ in mitigating Cu toxicity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the Cu toxicity on the nutritional and productive attributes of Panicum maximum cv. Tanzania as well as the role of NO3- and NH4+ ratios in nutritional homeostasis. The experiment was conducted using 3 × 4 factorial treatments arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The treatments were three NO3-/NH4+ ratios (100/0, 70/30, and 50/50) and four Cu rates (0.3, 250, 500, and 1000 µmol L-1) in nutrient solution. Copper concentrations in the diagnostic leaves (DL) were highest in plants grown under 70/30 NO3-/NH4+ ratios and a Cu rate of 1000 µmol L-1. In this combination, it was observed that DL had higher concentrations of NH4+, greater glutamine synthetase activity, lower chlorophyll concentration (SPAD value), and lower shoot dry mass, suggesting high disorders of nutritional homeostasis. Plants receiving N in the form of NO3- and 1000 Cu µmol L-1 showed that DL had lower concentrations of Cu, higher concentration of chlorophyll, higher NO3- concentration, higher nitrate reductase activity, and higher NO3- accumulation in the roots, suggesting a reduction in disorders of nutritional homeostasis. The disorders on mineral uptake, N assimilation, and biomass production caused by Cu toxicity are shown to be affected by NO3-/NH4+ ratios, and N supply via NO3- allowed for better homeostasis of the forage grass.

From tolerance to resistance: mechanisms governing the differential response to glyphosate in Chloris barbata.

BACKGROUND: Susceptibility and the mechanism (s) governing tolerance/resistance to glyphosate were characterized in two putative-glyphosate-resistant Chloris barbata populations (R1 and R2), collected in Persian lime orchards from Colima State, Mexico, comparing them with one non-treated population (referred to as S). RESULTS: Glyphosate doses required to reduce fresh weight or cause mortality by 50% were 4.2-6.4 times higher in resistant populations than in the S population. The S population accumulated 4.3 and 5.2 times more shikimate than the R2 and R1 populations, respectively. There were no differences in 14 C-glyphosate uptake between R and S populations, but the R plants translocated at least 12% less herbicide to the rest of plant and roots 96 h after treatment. Insignificant amounts of glyphosate were metabolized to aminomethyl phosphonate and glyoxylate in both R and S plants. The 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase gene of the R populations contained the Pro106-Ser mutation, giving them a resistance 12 (R2) and 14.7 (R1) times greater at target-site level compared with the S population. CONCLUSION: The Pro106-Ser mutation governs the resistance to glyphosate of the R1 and R2 C barbata populations, but the impaired translocation could contribute to the resistance. These results confirm the first case of glyphosate resistance evolved in this species. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

A proteomic approach to the mechanisms underlying activation of aluminium resistance in roots of Urochloa decumbens.

The mechanisms of extreme Al-resistance in Urochloa decumbens are not established. Full resistance expression requires a lag time of 72-96h and is preceded by a sensitive phase (24-48h) with Al-induced root growth inhibition. The aim here was to identify key processes of the activation phase of Al-resistance analysing both root exudates and comparative root proteome. Samples were taken after 0, 24 and 96h exposure to 0 or 200µM Al. Al-induced stimulation of citrate and oxalate efflux was limited to the sensitive phase. Only 11 proteins revealed Al-induced abundance differences; six were identified. After 24h, phenylalanine ammonium lyase (PAL), methionine synthase (MS), and deoxymugineic acid synthase (DMAS) decreased, while acid phosphatase (APase) abundance increased. Coincident with growth recovering, PAL and MS, but not DMAS, returned to initial levels. After 96h, γ­carbonic anhydrase (γ­CA) and adenylate kinase (AK) along with two unidentified proteins were more abundant. In conclusion, few protein changes characterize the initial response to Al in signalgrass. During the alarm phase, changes are related to P-mobilization, downregulation of Fe-acquisition, reduction of phenolic biosynthesis, and small stimulation of organic acid exudation. After recovering (resistant phase), biosynthesis of phenolics and methionine, but not Fe-mobilization are re-established. Full expression of Al-resistance is characterized by enhanced γ­CA mediating mitochondrial complex I assembly and increased AK abundance indicating higher root respiration and better provision of ADP and Mg2+ to ATP synthase, respectively. The unidentified proteins and the specific role of γ­CA in Al resistance of U. decumbens will centre future research.

Influences of nitrogen fertilization and energy supplementation for growth perfomance of beef cattle on Alexander grass.

This study evaluated the influences of nitrogen fertilizer and energy supplementation cattle on the growth performance of beef cattle. This study was conducted at the Federal University of Technology of Paraná, Dois Vizinhos through continuous grazing on 6.3 ha, divided into nine paddocks. The treatments were: Alexander grass +100 kg ha-1 of N (N100); Alexander grass + 100 kg ha-1 of N + 0.5 kg per 100 kg of weight live supplementation of wheat bran (N100S); and Alexander grass +200 kg ha-1 of N (N200), with an average herbage allowance of 10% for all treatments. Crossbred and non-castrated steers with an average weight of 276 ± 41 kg were used for 107 days. The crude protein from entire plant differed (P < 0.05) between treatments, with the greater value (14.8%) occurring in the N200, and the lesser value (13.3%) occurring in the N100S. The herbage accumulation rate was greater (P < 0.05) in the N200 (55.7  DM ha-1 d-1) than that in the N100S and N100 (40.0 and 39.7 kg DM ha-1 d-1, respectively). The N100S produced greater (P < 0.05) average daily weight gains (0.815 kg animal day-1) than did the N200 (0.685 kg animal day-1) and N100 treatments (0.727 kg animal day-1).

Boron stress response and accumulation potential of the extremely tolerant species Puccinellia frigida.

Phytoremediation is a promising technology to tackle boron toxicity, which restricts agricultural activities in many arid and semi-arid areas. Puccinellia frigida is a perennial grass that was reported to hyperaccumulate boron in extremely boron-contaminated sites. To further investigate its potential for phytoremediation, we determined its response to boron stress under controlled conditions (hydroponic culture). Also, as a first step towards understanding the mechanisms underlying its extreme tolerance, we evaluated the presence and expression of genes related with boron tolerance. We found that P. frigida grew normally even at highly toxic boron concentrations in the medium (500mg/L), and within its tissues (>5000mg/kg DW). We postulate that the strategies conferring this extreme tolerance involve both restricting boron accumulation and an internal tolerance mechanism; this is consistent with the identification of putative genes involved in both mechanisms, including the expression of a possible boron efflux transporter. We also found that P. frigida hyperaccumulated boron over a wide range of boron concentrations. We propose that P. frigida could be used for boron phytoremediation strategies in places with different soil characteristics and boron concentrations. Further studies should pave the way for the development of clean and low-cost solutions to boron toxicity problems.

Sward structure and nutritive value of Alexandergrass fertilized with nitrogen.

This experiment evaluated forage production, sward structure, stocking rate, weight gain per area and nutritive value of forage as grazed by beef heifers on Alexandergrass (Urochloa plantaginea (Link) Hitch) pasture fertilized with nitrogen (N): 0; 100; 200 or 300 kg of N/ha. The experiment was a completely randomized design following a repeated measurement arrangement. The experimental animals were Angus heifers with initial age and weight of 15 months and 241.5±5 kg, respectively. The grazing method was continuous, with put-and-take stocking. N utilization, regardless of the level, increase by 25% the daily forage accumulation rate and the weight gain per area by 23%. The level of 97.2 kg N/ha leads to a higher leaf blade mass and increases by 20% the leaf:stem ratio. Alterations in sward structure changes the nutritive value of forage as grazed. The utilization of 112.7 kg of N/ha allows the highest stocking rate (2049.8 kg of BW/ha), equivalent to 7.5 heifers per hectare.

Confirmation and mechanism of glyphosate resistance in tall windmill grass (Chloris elata) from Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Overreliance on glyphosate as a single tool for weed management in agricultural systems in Brazil has selected glyphosate-resistant populations of tall windmill grass (Chloris elata Desv.). RESULTS: Two C. elata populations, one glyphosate resistant (GR) and one glyphosate susceptible (GS), were studied in detail for a dose-response experiment and for resistance mechanism. The dose causing 50% reduction in dry weight was 620 g a.e. ha(-1) for GR and 114 g ha(-1) for GS, resulting in an R/S ratio of 5.4. GS had significantly higher maximum (14) C-glyphosate absorption into the treated leaf (51.3%) than GR (39.5%), a difference of 11.8% in maximum absorption. GR also retained more (14) C-glyphosate in the treated leaf (74%) than GS (51%), and GR translocated less glyphosate (27%) to other plant parts (stems, roots and root exudation) than GS (36%). There were no mutations at the Pro106 codon in the gene encoding 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS). There was no difference in EPSPS genomic copy number or EPSPS transcription between GS and GR populations. CONCLUSION: Based on these data, reduced glyphosate absorption and increased glyphosate retention in the treated leaf contribute to glyphosate resistance in this C. elata population from Brazil. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

Application of herbicides as growth regulators of emerald Zoysia grass fertilized with nitrogen / Doses de nitrogênio e aplicação de herbicidas como reguladores de crescimento em grama esmeralda

Nitrogen (N) is essential for nutrition and for the maintenance of the intense green color of lawns. However, this element affects shoot growth and, therefore, mowing frequency, which is a key factor of lawn-maintenance costs. Accordingly, this study aimed to evaluate the use of nitrogen fertilization in combination with the use of potential herbicides as growth regulators to promote the maintenance of the high visual (intense green) and nutritional quality of lawns of emerald Zoysia (Zoysia japonica Steud.) grown in Ultisol soil while reducing their leaf growth. The experiment was conducted at the Teaching, Research and Extension Education Farm (Fazenda de Ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão) of São Paulo State University (Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, UNESP), Ilha Solteira Campus/ São Paulo (SP), from June/2012 to June/2013. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks with 20 treatments established in a 5 x 4 factorial arrangement with four replicates, including four herbicides (glyphosate, imazaquin, imazethapyr, and metsulfuron-methyl, applied at doses of 200, 420, 80, and 140 g ha-1 active ingredient (a.i.), respectively) and a control (without herbicide), and four N doses (0, 5, 10, and 20 g m-2), split into five applications delivered throughout the year. The following items were evaluated: length, LCI (leaf chlorophyll index), leaf dry matter production and leaf N concentration and the percentage of phytotoxicity on lawn grass shoots. Doses from 10 to 20 g m-2 N provided sufficient N concentrations to maintain the emerald Zoysia. The herbicides metsulfuron-methyl and glyphosate weresuperior in the control of lawn leaf growth. While the former was phytotoxic, the latter had no effect onthe aesthetic quality of the lawn, standing out as an herbicide that may be used at a dose of 200 g ha-1 toregulate the growth of emerald Zoysia.(AU)

O nitrogênio é essencial para a nutrição e a manutenção da coloração verde intensa dos gramados. No entanto, influencia o crescimento da parte aérea e, consequentemente, a frequência de cortes, principal fator do custo de manutenção em gramados. Neste contexto, objetivou-se avaliar a adubação nitrogenada e o uso potencial de herbicidas como reguladores de crescimento em grama esmeralda (Zoysia japônica Steud.), em Argissolo Vermelho, visando manter o gramado com boa qualidade visual (verde intenso) e nutricional bem como reduzir o seu crescimento foliar. O experimento foi conduzido na Fazenda de Ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão da UNESP, Campus de Ilha Solteira/SP, de junho/2012 a junho/2013. Utilizou-se o delineamento em blocos casualizados com 20 tratamentos dispostos num fatorial 5 x 4 com quatro repetições, sendo quatro herbicidas: glyphosate, imazaquin, imazethapyr e metsulfuronmethyl aplicados na dose de, respectivamente, 200, 420, 80 e 140 g ha-1 do ingrediente ativo (i.a.) e a testemunha - sem herbicida; e quatro doses de N: 0, 5, 10 e 20 g m-2, parceladas em cinco aplicações durante o ano. Avaliaram-se: o comprimento, o índice ICF (índice de clorofila foliar) e a produção de matéria seca das folhas, determinaram-se também a concentração foliar de N e a porcentagem de fitointoxicação da parte aérea do gramado. Doses de 10 a 20 g m-2 de N proporcionaram concentração de N suficiente para a manutenção da grama esmeralda. Os herbicidas metsulfuron-methyl e glyphosatedestacaram-se no controle do crescimento foliar do gramado, sendo que o primeiro mostrou-se maisfitotóxico e o segundo não prejudicou a qualidade estética do gramado, destacando-se como herbicidaque possa ser utilizado como regulador do crescimento de grama esmeralda na dose de 200 g ha-1.(AU)

Application of herbicides as growth regulators of emerald Zoysia grass fertilized with nitrogen / Doses de nitrogênio e aplicação de herbicidas como reguladores de crescimento em grama esmeralda

Nitrogen (N) is essential for nutrition and for the maintenance of the intense green color of lawns. However, this element affects shoot growth and, therefore, mowing frequency, which is a key factor of lawn-maintenance costs. Accordingly, this study aimed to evaluate the use of nitrogen fertilization in combination with the use of potential herbicides as growth regulators to promote the maintenance of the high visual (intense green) and nutritional quality of lawns of emerald Zoysia (Zoysia japonica Steud.) grown in Ultisol soil while reducing their leaf growth. The experiment was conducted at the Teaching, Research and Extension Education Farm (Fazenda de Ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão) of São Paulo State University (Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, UNESP), Ilha Solteira Campus/ São Paulo (SP), from June/2012 to June/2013. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks with 20 treatments established in a 5 x 4 factorial arrangement with four replicates, including four herbicides (glyphosate, imazaquin, imazethapyr, and metsulfuron-methyl, applied at doses of 200, 420, 80, and 140 g ha-1 active ingredient (a.i.), respectively) and a control (without herbicide), and four N doses (0, 5, 10, and 20 g m-2), split into five applications delivered throughout the year. The following items were evaluated: length, LCI (leaf chlorophyll index), leaf dry matter production and leaf N concentration and the percentage of phytotoxicity on lawn grass shoots. Doses from 10 to 20 g m-2 N provided sufficient N concentrations to maintain the emerald Zoysia. The herbicides metsulfuron-methyl and glyphosate weresuperior in the control of lawn leaf growth. While the former was phytotoxic, the latter had no effect onthe aesthetic quality of the lawn, standing out as an herbicide that may be used at a dose of 200 g ha-1 toregulate the growth of emerald Zoysia.

O nitrogênio é essencial para a nutrição e a manutenção da coloração verde intensa dos gramados. No entanto, influencia o crescimento da parte aérea e, consequentemente, a frequência de cortes, principal fator do custo de manutenção em gramados. Neste contexto, objetivou-se avaliar a adubação nitrogenada e o uso potencial de herbicidas como reguladores de crescimento em grama esmeralda (Zoysia japônica Steud.), em Argissolo Vermelho, visando manter o gramado com boa qualidade visual (verde intenso) e nutricional bem como reduzir o seu crescimento foliar. O experimento foi conduzido na Fazenda de Ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão da UNESP, Campus de Ilha Solteira/SP, de junho/2012 a junho/2013. Utilizou-se o delineamento em blocos casualizados com 20 tratamentos dispostos num fatorial 5 x 4 com quatro repetições, sendo quatro herbicidas: glyphosate, imazaquin, imazethapyr e metsulfuronmethyl aplicados na dose de, respectivamente, 200, 420, 80 e 140 g ha-1 do ingrediente ativo (i.a.) e a testemunha - sem herbicida; e quatro doses de N: 0, 5, 10 e 20 g m-2, parceladas em cinco aplicações durante o ano. Avaliaram-se: o comprimento, o índice ICF (índice de clorofila foliar) e a produção de matéria seca das folhas, determinaram-se também a concentração foliar de N e a porcentagem de fitointoxicação da parte aérea do gramado. Doses de 10 a 20 g m-2 de N proporcionaram concentração de N suficiente para a manutenção da grama esmeralda. Os herbicidas metsulfuron-methyl e glyphosatedestacaram-se no controle do crescimento foliar do gramado, sendo que o primeiro mostrou-se maisfitotóxico e o segundo não prejudicou a qualidade estética do gramado, destacando-se como herbicidaque possa ser utilizado como regulador do crescimento de grama esmeralda na dose de 200 g ha-1.