Social Inclusion and Pest Management: a Route for Improved Food Production and well-being in the Global South.

World trade has facilitated the spread of non-native pest species, presenting new challenges for food production. In the Global South, linking worker social protection programs with invasive pest management can, at the same time, contribute to food security and empower workers. The spotted wing Drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) (SWD) recent invasion in the Global South case study illustrates how science-based policies integrated with agricultural worker-based social organizations can contribute toward economic and environmental sustainability.

Biofungicides Based on Plant Extracts: On the Road to Organic Farming.

Phytopathogenic fungi are responsible for diseases in commercially important crops and cause major supply problems in the global food chain. Plants were able to protect themselves from disease before humans played an active role in protecting plants. They are known to synthesize a variety of secondary metabolites (SMs), such as terpenes, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds, which can be extracted using conventional and unconventional techniques to formulate biofungicides; plant extracts have antifungal activity and various mechanisms of action against these organisms. In addition, they are considered non-phytotoxic and potentially effective in disease control. They are a sustainable and economically viable alternative for use in agriculture, which is why biofungicides are increasingly recognized as an attractive option to solve the problems caused by synthetic fungicides. Currently, organic farming continues to grow, highlighting the importance of developing environmentally friendly alternatives for crop production. This review provides a compilation of the literature on biosynthesis, mechanisms of action of secondary metabolites against phytopathogens, extraction techniques and formulation of biofungicides, biological activity of plant extracts on phytopathogenic fungi, regulation, advantages, disadvantages and an overview of the current use of biofungicides in agriculture.

Identifying selection strategies based on the practices and preferences of small ruminant farmers to improve the sustainability of their breeding systems.

Small ruminant farming is of socio-economic and environmental importance to many rural communities around the world. The SMARTER H2020 project aims to redefine genetic selection criteria to increase the sustainability of the sector. The objective of this study was to analyse the selection and breeding management practices of small ruminant producers and breeders, linked with socio-technical elements that shape them. The study is based on farm surveys using semi-structured interviews conducted in five countries (France, Spain, Italy, Greece, and Uruguay) across 272 producers and breeders of 13 sheep and goat breeds, and 15 breed × system combinations. The information was collected in four sections. The first and second sections dealt with general elements of structure and management of the system and the flock/herd. The third section focused on selection and breeding management practices: criteria for culling and replacement of females, selection criteria for males, use of estimated breeding values and global indexes, and preferences for indexing new traits to increase the sustainability of their system. The fourth section aimed to collect socio-technical information. We used a data abstraction method to standardise the representation of these data. A mixed data factor analysis followed by a hierarchical ascending classification allowed the characterisation of three profiles of selection and breeding management: (1) a profile of producers (n = 93) of small flocks/herds, with little knowledge or use of genetic selection and improvement tools (selection index, artificial insemination, performance recording); these farmers do not feel that new traits are needed to improve the sustainability of their system. (2) a profile of producers (n = 34) of multibreed flocks/herds that rely significantly on grazing; they are familiar with genetic tools, they currently use AI; they would like the indexes to include more health and robustness characteristics, to make their animals more resistant and to increase the sustainability of their system. And (3) a profile of producers or breeders (n = 145) of large flocks/herds, with specific culling criteria; these farmers are satisfied with the current indexes to maintain the sustainability of their system. These results are elements that can be used by private breeding companies and associations to support the evolution of selection objectives to increase the resilience of animals and to improve the sustainability of the small ruminant breeding systems.

Afetividade pessoa-ambiente nas hortas comunitárias: promoção da saúde e da sustentabilidade / People-environmental affectiveness in community gardens: health and sustainability promotion

RESUMO As hortas comunitárias inspiradas em modelos agroecológicos já são tendências nas cidades que buscam estimular ambientes positivos. Entre as possíveis estratégias, permitem integrar políticas que visam à erradicação da fome, a garantia de qualidade alimentar e o aumento da economia familiar. O presente estudo objetiva analisar os significados simbólicos e afetivos dos usuários diante de suas atividades nas hortas comunitárias urbanas. Foram 40 entrevistados com idade média entre 45 e 80 anos, por meio do Instrumento Gerador de Mapas Afetivos. A pesquisa foi realizada in loco e os participantes foram convidados a desenhar a horta e responder à entrevista. As imagens produzidas foram analisadas a partir de suas estruturas, sentimentos e sentidos. Constatou-se que as vivências nesses ambientes foram mediadas por sentimentos de agradabilidade, pertencimento e restauração. Entre os sentidos atribuídos, destacaram-se a conexão com a natureza e a interação social. Conclui-se que tais dimensões presentes nas hortas estudadas podem contribuir para a promoção da saúde, da sustentabilidade e a preservação ambiental.

ABSTRACT Community gardens inspired by agroecological models are trends in cities that seek to stimulate positive environments. Among the possible strategies, they allow us to integrate policies that aim to eradicate eradicate hunger, guarantee food quality and increase the family economy. This study aims to analyze the symbolic and emotional meanings of users during their activities in urban community gardens. There were 40 interviewees with average age between 45 and 80 years old, through the Affective Map Generator Instrument. The research was carried out on site and the participants were invited to develop the information and respond to the interview. The images produced are analyzed from their structures, feelings and senses. It is confirmed that experiences in these environments are mediated by feelings of pleasantness, belonging and restoration. Among the senses attributed, the connection with nature and social interaction stand out. It is concluded that these dimensions present in the studied gardens can contribute to the promotion of health, sustainability and environmental preservation.

Silvopastoral systems benefit invertebrate biodiversity on tropical livestock farms in Caquetá, Colombia.

In the Colombian Amazon, there has been long-term and sustained loss of primary forest threatening biodiversity and climate change mitigation. Silvopastoral practices that integrate trees into livestock production could help address both local economic and wider environmental challenges.We aimed to assess the effects of silvopastoral practices on invertebrate communities on smallholder farms in Caquetá, Colombia. Using sweep nets and malaise trapping, invertebrate communities were compared between traditional pasture, silvopasture and forest edge habitats.Invertebrate communities collected using sweep nets were contrasting among habitat types, communities were significantly different between traditional pasture and forest edge habitats and diversity and evenness were greatest in forest edges compared to traditional pastures. It appears that silvopasture areas, by supporting similar invertebrate assemblages to both traditional pasture and forest edges, may be acting as an intermediate habitat.When individual invertebrate orders were compared, Lepidoptera and Coleoptera were found in greater abundance in the forest edge habitats, while Hemiptera were more abundant in traditional pasture. Hemipterans are often pests of forage plants in pasture systems and these differences in abundance may have implications for ecosystem services and disservices.Silvopastoral approaches cannot replace the unique biodiversity supported by native forests but could deliver benefits for invertebrate conservation and ecosystem services if integrated into landscapes.

Resumen: En la Amazonía colombiana ha habido una pérdida sostenida y a largo plazo de bosque primario que amenaza la biodiversidad y la mitigación del cambio climático. Las prácticas silvopastoriles que integran los árboles en la producción ganadera podrían ayudar a abordar tanto los desafíos económicos locales como los ambientales.Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar los efectos de las prácticas silvopastoriles en comunidades de invertebrados en pequeñas fincas en Caquetá, Colombia. Las comunidades de invertebrados se compararon entre las pasturas nativas, el sistema silvopastoril y los hábitats del borde del bosque mediante el uso redes entomológicas de barrido y trampas Malaise.Las comunidades de invertebrados recolectadas usando redes entomológicas de barrido contrastaban entre los tipos de hábitat. Las comunidades eran significativamente diferentes entre las pasturas nativas y el borde de bosque. Pareciera que las áreas de silvopastoreo, al soportar conjuntos de invertebrados similares tanto a las pasturas nativas como a los bordes del bosque, pueden estar actuando como un hábitat intermedio.Cuando se compararon los órdenes individuales de invertebrados, los lepidópteros y los coleópteros se encontraron en mayor abundancia en los hábitats del borde del bosque, mientras que los hemípteros eran más abundantes en las pasturas nativas. Los hemípteros son a menudo plagas de plantas forrajeras en sistemas de pastoreo y estas diferencias en abundancia pueden tener implicaciones y perjuicios para los servicios ecosistémicos.Los sistemas silvopastoriles no pueden reemplazar la biodiversidad única apoyada por los bosques nativos, pero podrían ofrecer beneficios para la conservación de invertebrados y los servicios ecosistémicos si se integran en los paisajes.

Natural habitat connectivity and organic management modulate pest dispersal, gene flow, and natural enemy communities.

The simplification and fragmentation of agricultural landscapes generate effects on insects at multiple spatial scales. As each functional group perceives and uses the habitat differently, the response of pest insects and their associated natural enemies to environmental changes varies. Therefore, landscape structure may have consequences on gene flow among pest populations in space. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of local and landscape factors, at multiple scales, on the local infestation, gene flow and broad dispersion dynamics of the pest insect Bemisia tabaci (Genn.) Middle East-Asia Minor 1 (MEAM-1, former biotype B) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) and its associated natural enemies in a tropical agroecosystem. We evaluated the abundance of B. tabaci populations and their natural enemy community in 20 tomato farms in Brazil and the gene flow between farms from 2019 to 2021. Landscapes dominated by agriculture resulted in larger B. tabaci populations and higher gene flow, especially in conventional farms. A higher density of native vegetation patches disfavored pest populations, regardless of the management system. The results revealed that whitefly responds to intermediate spatial scales and that landscape factors interact with management systems to modulate whitefly populations on focal farms. Conversely, whitefly natural enemies benefited from higher amounts of natural vegetation at small spatial scales, while the connectivity between natural habitat patches was beneficial for natural enemies regardless of the distance from the focal farm. The resulting dispersion model predicts that the movement of whiteflies between farms increases as the amount of natural vegetation decreases. Our findings demonstrate that landscape features, notably landscape configuration, can mediate infestation episodes, as they affect pest insects and natural enemies in opposite ways. We also showed that landscape features interact with farm traits, which highlights the need for management strategies at multiple spatial scales. In conclusion, we demonstrated the importance of the conservation of natural areas as a key strategy for area-wide ecological pest management and the relevance of organic farming to benefit natural enemy communities in tropical agroecosystems.

O causo dos cães de passagem na roça / El cuento de los perros que pasan por la granja / The tale of passing dogs in the small family farm

Resumo: Este artigo reflete sobre a singularidade das relações entre mulheres rurais e os cães que com elas constituem um relacionamento interespecífico. Objetiva contar sobre práticas que foram emergindo ao longo de uma pesquisa quando passamos a encarar seriamente a agência de animais a partir do cotidiano de uma agricultora pesquisadora alinhada à agroecologia familiar. Focalizamos os cães de passagem sem raça definida e que vão e vêm livremente entre as cercas que delimitam as propriedades rurais. Em diálogo com Donna Haraway, Anna Tsing e Vinciane Despret, apresentamos pistas para uma pesquisa multiespécie que opera por meio de causos. A pesquisa multiespécie nos convida a reflexões sobre práticas anticapitalistas que germinam na agroecologia, a nos determos no trabalho das mulheres agricultoras e dos cães na sua potência de autogoverno e de criarmos formas de cooperação multiespecíficas com alteridades significativas no projeto moderno-colonizador.

Resumen: Este artículo reflexiona sobre la singularidad de las relaciones entre las mujeres rurales y los perros que constituyen una relación interespecífica con ellas. El objetivo es relatar las prácticas que surgieron a lo largo de una investigación cuando empezamos a considerar seriamente la agencia animal basada en la vida diária de una agricultora investigadora alineada con la agroecología familiar. Centramonos en perros mestizos que van y vienen libremente entre las vallas que delimitan las propiedades rurales. En diálogo con Donna Haraway, Anna Tsing y Vinciane Despret, presentamos pistas para una investigación multiespecie que opera a través de historias. La investigación multiespecie nos invita a reflexionar sobre las prácticas anticapitalistas que germinan en la agroecología, a centrarnos en el trabajo de las campesinas y los perros en su poder de autogobierno y a crear formas de cooperación multiespecífica con alteridades significativas en el proyecto moderno-colonizador.

Abstract: This article reflects on the uniqueness of the relationships between rural women and the dogs that constitute an interspecific relationship with them. It aims to tell about practices that emerged throughout research when we began to seriously consider the animal agency based on the daily life of a farmer researcher aligned with family agroecology. We focus on mixed breed dogs that come and go freely between the fences that delimit rural properties. In dialogue with Donna Haraway, Anna Tsing and Vinciane Despret, we present clues for multispecies research that operates through stories. Multispecies research invites us to reflect on anti-capitalist practices that germinate in agroecology, to focus on the work of women farmers and dogs in their power of self-government and to create forms of multispecific cooperation with significant alterities in the modern-colonizing project.

Diversity of vegetable landraces in the Pampa biome of Brazil and Uruguay: utilization and conservation strategies.

The historical meeting between originally American people, European colonizers, and slaved peoples from Africa in the biome Pampa in South Brazil and Uruguay involved a cultural syncretism and a great genetic diversity of landraces of cultivated species. Genetic richness evolved by selection and cultural processes in response to different environments, cultural backgrounds, and needs. This review summarized the knowledge on vegetable and maize landraces in South Brazilian and Uruguayan Pampa biome, to design a strategy towards the rediscovery, conservation, and sustainable use. Landraces diversity maintained in situ and ex situ is described, specific case studies are presented, and the main problems and tools towards landraces re-valorization are discussed. We show that traditional family farming systems maintain diverse vegetable species, mainly squashes (Cucurbita spp.), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), beans (Phaseolus spp.), onion (Allium cepa), peppers (Capsicum spp.), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), next to leafy vegetables and maize, among others. We propose the priority of systematic surveys as a basis for monitoring genetic erosion, increasing complementariness between in situ and ex situ conservation, and implementing sustainable conservation and utilization. The case studies highlight genetic diversity within each cultivated species, with different crop physiological responses; disease resistances, different quality traits and associated uses, from animal feeding in maize to a range of culinary uses linked to traditional culture in maize and vegetable species, and ornamental uses of specific Capsicum and Cucurbita. Some landraces were the basis for breeding, where improved cultivars allowed the competitiveness of landrace germplasm in the markets. Renewed industrialized products allowed the competitive and sustainable use of Capsicum landraces in Brazilian farmers communities. Strategies towards in situ conservation improvements and valorization are discussed; emphasizing the role played by agroecology, community seed banks and custodian farmers, participatory plant breeding, promotion of landraces specialties among consumers, and the need of research and capacity building, among others. Farmers' participation in the decisions is a key factor, along with the academia and the public sector. Landraces and associated knowledge are treasures to be used to benefit from farmers to consumers, directing the course of agriculture towards sustainable directions.

Traditional Food Consumption in Andean Ecuador and Associated Consumer Characteristics, Shopping and Eating Habits.

Traditional foods (TFs) hold increasing global relevance due to their potential to address health and dietary challenges. This study explores TF consumption and patterns in a middle-income country's general population. Using 2017 Ecuadorian highlands survey data, we identified four consumption clusters with distinct TF preferences. Chi-square tests identified variations in independent variables across clusters. Poisson regression models highlighted city, age, education, and food habits as independent predictors of TF-based clusters. Our findings broaden TF importance to nutrition beyond specific populations. Understanding consumption patterns and socioeconomic links supports nuanced public health strategies to tackle contemporary health, social equity, and sustainability issues.

In vitro nematicidal and acaricidal effect of biosurfactants produced by Bacillus against the root-knot nematode Nacobbus aberrans and the dust mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae.

In the present study, the nematicidal and acaricidal activity of three biosurfactants (BS) produced by strains of the Bacillus genus was evaluated. The BS produced by the Bacillus ROSS2 strain presented a mortality of 39.29% in juveniles (J2) of Nacobbus aberrans at a concentration of 30 mg/mL, this same strain is the one that presented the highest mortality in Tyrophagus putrescentiae, which was 57.97% at a concentration of 39 mg/mL. The BS were qualitatively identified by thin layer chromatography and are lipid in nature based on the retention factor (Rf). While the GC-MS analysis identified two main compounds that are 4,7-Methano-1H-indene-2,6-dicarboxylic acid, 3a,4,7,7a-tetrahydro-1, and Methyl 4-(pyrrol-1-yl)-1,2,5-oxadiazole-3-carboxylate1, which is the polar part indicated by the presence of dicarboxylic acid and carboxylate groups; while the non-polar portion can be interpreted as a hydrocarbon chain of variable length. Based on the present results, BS can be an alternative for the biocontrol of the root-knot nematode N. aberrans and the mite T. putrescentiae.

Agroecology Can Promote Climate Change Adaptation Outcomes Without Compromising Yield In Smallholder Systems.

A critical question is whether agroecology can promote climate change mitigation and adaptation outcomes without compromising food security. We assessed the outcomes of smallholder agricultural systems and practices in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) against 35 mitigation, adaptation, and yield indicators by reviewing 50 articles with 77 cases of agroecological treatments relative to a baseline of conventional practices. Crop yields were higher for 63% of cases reporting yields. Crop diversity, income diversity, net income, reduced income variability, nutrient regulation, and reduced pest infestation, indicators of adaptative capacity, were associated with 70% or more of cases. Limited information on climate change mitigation, such as greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration impacts, was available. Overall, the evidence indicates that use of organic nutrient sources, diversifying systems with legumes and integrated pest management lead to climate change adaptation in multiple contexts. Landscape mosaics, biological control (e.g., enhancement of beneficial organisms) and field sanitation measures do not yet have sufficient evidence based on this review. Widespread adoption of agroecological practices and system transformations shows promise to contribute to climate change services and food security in LMICs. Gaps in adaptation and mitigation strategies and areas for policy and research interventions are finally discussed.

Mulheres agricultoras do rio grande do sul: suas trajetórias no contexto da produção agroecológica / Mujeres agricultoras de rio grande do sul: sus trayectorias en el contexto de la producción agroecológica / Women farmers from rio grande do sul: their trajectories in the context of agroecological production

Resumo A fim de analisar as narrativas biográficas de mulheres agricultoras sobre seu papel como trabalhadoras no contexto da agroecologia, desenvolveu-se um estudo qualitativo exploratório. A partir de uma abordagem etnográfica, foram realizadas observações de campo e entrevistas em uma feira agroecológica. Com a informação coletada foi realizada uma análise temática por meio de uma abordagem indutiva. Evidenciou-se que as agricultoras vivenciam desafios associados aos estereótipos de gênero, à dupla jornada de trabalho, à invisibilidade de seu trabalho e à dificuldade em ocupar cargos de gestão. Diante dos desafios cotidianos, essas mulheres implementam práticas de transformação, que geram rupturas com os papéis tradicionais de gênero.

Resumen Con el fin de analizar las narrativas biográficas de las mujeres agricultoras sobre su papel como trabajadoras en el contexto de la agroecología, se desarrolló un estudio cualitativo exploratorio. A partir de un enfoque etnográfico, se realizaron observaciones de campo y entrevistas en una feria agroecológica. Con la información recolectada, se realizó un análisis temático con enfoque inductivo. Se evidenció que las mujeres agricultoras experimentan desafíos asociados a los estereotipos de género, la doble jornada laboral, la invisibilidad de su trabajo y la dificultad para ocupar puestos directivos. Frente a los desafíos cotidianos, estas mujeres implementan prácticas transformadoras que generan rupturas con los roles tradicionales de género.

Abstract In order to analyze the biographical narratives of women farmers about their role as workers in the context of agroecology, an exploratory qualitative study was developed. Based on an ethnographic approach, field observations and interviews were carried out at an agroecological fair. With the collected information, a thematic analysis was performed using an inductive approach. It was evident that female farmers experience challenges associated with gender stereotypes, double working hours, the invisibility of their work, and the difficulty in occupying management positions. Faced with everyday challenges, these women implement transformative practices that generate ruptures with traditional gender roles.

"Somos a terra lutando para sobreviver": histórias de vida de mulheres agroecologistas / "We are the earth struggling to survive": life stories of female agroecologists / "Somos la tierra luchando por sobrevivir": historias de vida de mujeres agroecólogas

A luta pela terra e seu uso incide na forma como as subjetividades têm sido produzidas no Brasil. No contexto capitalista, patriarcal e machista, vive-se um processo de exploração da mão de obra de mulheres e de recursos naturais da Terra. Este estudo objetivou conhecer histórias de vida de mulheres agricultoras rurais que participam de movimentos sociais agroecológicos no Rio Grande do Sul. Participaram do estudo três mulheres agricultoras, com idades entre 21 e 53 anos, residentes e trabalhadoras em zonas rurais das cidades de Viamão e Rolante, escolhidas por conveniência. Os instrumentos utilizados foram: questionário sociodemográfico, entrevista de história de vida e observação participante, os quais foram, posteriormente, submetidos à análise temática. Os resultados demonstram que as histórias de vida das mulheres relatadas são marcadas por lutas e formas de resistência. Para além das situações de conflitos e falta de recursos, avistam-se questões próprias de gênero, como a invisibilidade feminina e a desigualdade no acesso à terra por mulheres. A construção de base e o fortalecimento do papel político das mulheres nos movimentos sociais permite inferir que existem melhorias significativas nas desigualdades e injustiças no meio rural. Contudo, pontua-se a necessidade de se promover o diálogo entre os movimentos sociais, as mulheres e a sociedade política sobre os modelos atuais de políticas públicas existentes, possibilitando, assim, avançar nas discussões a respeito da promoção da equidade de gênero nos espaços rurais, bem como potencializar o avanço das práticas agroecológicas em direção à superação do capitalismo.(AU)

The struggle for land and its use affects the way subjectivities have been produced in Brazil. In the capitalist, patriarchal, and male-chauvinist context, women's labor and the Earth's natural resources are strongly exploited. This study aimed to know the life stories of female farmers who participate in agroecological social movements in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Three female farmers, aged from 21 to 53, residents and workers in rural areas of the municipalities of Viamão and Rolante, chosen by convenience, participated in the study. The instruments used were: sociodemographic questionnaire, a life story interview, and participant observation, which were later subjected to thematic analysis. The results show that the participants' life stories are marked by struggles and means of resistance. In addition to conflicts and lack of resources, there are specific gender issues, such as female invisibility and inequality in women's access to land. The grassroots construction and the strengthening of the political role of women in social movements allow us to infer that there are significant improvements in inequalities and injustices in rural areas. However, it is necessary to promote dialogue between social movements, women, and political society about the current models of existing public policies, thus making it possible to advance in discussions about gender equity in rural spaces, as well as to enhance the advancement of agroecological practices to overcoming capitalism.(AU)

La lucha por la tierra y su uso afecta a la forma en que se han producido las subjetividades en Brasil. En el contexto capitalista, patriarcal y machista, hay un proceso de explotación del trabajo de las mujeres y de los recursos naturales de la tierra. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo conocer las historias de vida de agricultoras rurales que participan en movimientos sociales agroecológicos en Rio Grande do Sul (Brasil). Participaron en el estudio tres agricultoras, de entre 21 y 53 años, residentes y trabajadoras en áreas rurales de las ciudades de Viamão y Rolante, elegidas por conveniencia. Los instrumentos utilizados fueron: cuestionario sociodemográfico, entrevista de historia de vida y observación participante, cuyos datos posteriormente se sometieron a análisis temático. Los resultados muestran que las historias de vida de las mujeres relatadas están marcadas por luchas y formas de resistencia. A las situaciones de conflicto y falta de recursos se suman cuestiones específicas de género, como la invisibilidad femenina y la desigualdad en el acceso de las mujeres a la tierra. La construcción popular y el fortalecimiento del papel político de las mujeres en los movimientos sociales permiten inferir que hay mejoras significativas en las desigualdades e injusticias en las zonas rurales. Sin embargo, es necesario promover el diálogo entre los movimientos sociales, las mujeres y la sociedad sobre los modelos actuales de las políticas públicas existentes, para posibilitar avances en las discusiones sobre la promoción de la equidad de género en los espacios rurales y potenciar el avance de las prácticas agroecológicas hacia la superación del capitalismo.(AU)

Efecto de prácticas agroecológicas en la conservación del suelo de la Zona de Reserva Campesina de San Isidro, Pr dera, Valle del Cauca / Effect of agroecological practices on soil conservation of the San Isidro Peasant Reserve Zone / Efeito das práticas agroecológicas na conservação do solo na Zona de Reserva Camponesa de San Isidro, Pradera, Valle del Cauca

RESUMEN La biodiversidad del suelo está amenazada por cambios antropogénicos mundiales, como la intensifìcación del uso del suelo, la deforestación y fenômenos climáticos extremos. En esta investigación se identificó el estado de indicadores de respuesta biológica del suelo al manejo agroecológico de los sistemas de producción de Zona de Reserva Campesina de San Isidro, municipio de Pradera, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Se tomaron muestras de la capa superior del suelo en multiples sitios de cada sistema productivo. Se realizó análisis de textura del suelo, análisis de atributos químicos (pH, M.O., FF K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn y B), cuantificación microbiana y de mesofauna, y se analizaron indicadores de manejo agroecológico en cada uno de los 15 agroecosistemas. Se encontró que prevalece una labranza conservacionista y que entre las propiedades químicas del suelo que pueden mejorarse está el pH y que se debe fortalecer el manejo de materia orgánica. Se concluye que el actual manejo agroecológico realizado por la comunidad requiere incorporación de materia orgánica teniendo en cuenta la textura del suelo de cada agroecosistema para mejorar condiciones relacionadas con aireación, humedad y erosión del suelo. Se evidenciaron resultados promisorios en indicadores biológicos del suelo; sin embargo, se requieren esfuerzos adicionales para fortalecer su potencial ya que muchas propiedades evaluadas son el reflejo de multiples procesos, por lo tanto, es necesario establecer vínculos directos entre la biodiversidad del suelo y la producción de cultivos para implementar las prácticas de gestión.

ABSTRACT Soil biodiversity is threatened by global anthropogenic changes, such as intensification of land use, deforestation and extreme climatic events. This research identified the status of indicators of soil biological response to agroecological management of production systems in the San Isidro Peasant Reserve Zone, municipality of Pradera, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Topsoil samples were taken from multiple sites in each production system. Soil texture analysis, chemical attribute analysis (pH, M.O., FF K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn and B), microbial and mesofauna quantification, and agroecological management indicators were analyzed in each of the 15 agroecosystems. It was found that conservation tillage prevails and that among the soil chemical properties that can be improved is pH and that organic matter management should be strengthened. It was concluded that the current agroecological management carried out by the community requires the incorporation of organic matter taking into account the soil texture of each agroecosystem to improve conditions related to soil aeration, humidity and erosion. Promising results were evidenced in soil biological indicators; however, additional efforts are required to strengthen their potential since many properties evaluated are the reflection of multiple processes, therefore, it is necessary to establish direct links between soil biodiversity and crop production in order to implement management practices.

RESUMO A biodiversidade do solo é ameaçada por mudanças antropogénicas globais, tais como intensificação do uso da terra, desmatamento e eventos climáticos extremos. Esta pesquisa identificou o status dos indicadores de resposta biológica do solo ao manejo agroecológico dos sistemas de produção na Zona de Reserva Camponesa de San Isidro, município de Pradera, Valle del Cauca, Colômbia. Amostras de solo superior foram coletadas de multiplos locais em cada sistema de produção. Análise da textura do solo, análise de atributos químicos (pH, M.O., FF K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn e B), quantificação microbiana e mesofauna, e indicadores de manejo agroecológico foram analisados em cada um dos 15 agroecossistemas. Constatou-se que a lavoura de conservação prevalece e que entre as propriedades químicas do solo que podem ser melhoradas está o pH e que o manejo da matéria orgânica deve ser reforçado. Conclui-se que o atual manejo agroecológico realizado pela comunidade requer a incorporação de matéria orgânica, levando em conta a textura do solo de cada agroecossistema para melhorar as condições relacionadas à aeração, umidade e erosão do solo. Resultados promissores foram evidenciados nos indicadores biológicos do solo; entretanto, esforços adicionais são necessários para fortalecer seu potencial, já que muitas propriedades avaliadas são um reflexo de múltiplos processos, portanto, é necessário estabelecer vínculos diretos entre a biodiversidade do solo e a produção de culturas para implementar práticas de gestão.

Assessment of the environmental impact and economic performance of cacao agroforestry systems in the Ecuadorian Amazon region: An LCA approach.

Ecuador is the third largest cacao exporter in the world. Up to 10 % of Ecuador's cacao production is grown in the Amazon region, mostly under conventional (CA) and organic (OA) agroforestry systems. Despite the importance of cacao in this area, no previous studies on its environmental impact and economic viability have yet been carried out. The main objective of this research is to fill this gap and, more specifically, perform a comparative analysis between CA and OA systems. For this purpose, primary information was gathered from 90 farms (44 conventional and 46 organic ones) that implement land management practices. The environmental performance of cacao production was assessed using a life cycle analysis methodology, with a cradle-to-farm gate approach. Up to twelve impact categories and five environmental and monetary efficiency indicators were estimated based on three functional units (1 kg of cacao, 1 kg of output sold, and 1 ha). Additionally, an economic viability analysis was performed, focused on profitability. The results show that organic management allows to reduce the environmental impact in all the analyzed categories, except for the land footprint, and improved the environmental and economic efficiency of agroforestry systems. The economic analysis shows no statistically significant differences between CA and OA profitability (net margin), which can be improved by selling co-products. Despite the low environmental impact of both types of system, economic profitability is certainly one of the weaknesses of cacao production in the Ecuadorian Amazon region. This study contributes to develop technical, production-related and political actions that could improve the economic cacao production situation without jeopardizing the environmental benefit obtained by these systems.

Entramados afectivos en movimiento: redes de Economía Social y Solidaria en Uruguay

Se presenta la Red de Grupos de Mujeres Rurales y la Red de Agroecología del Uruguay analizadas como entramados comunitarios afectivos y solidarios que irrumpen en la esfera pública durante las últimas décadas, en búsqueda de soluciones colectivas para necesidades comunes. Ambas redes se caracterizan por reivindicar derechos e interpelar instituidos, particularmente en relación a temáticas medioambientales y de género. Desde metodologías cualitativas de investigación-acción se llevaron a cabo una veintena de entrevistas en profundidad individuales y colectivas, seis talleres, observación participante en espacios deliberativos y relevamiento de información secundaria. El artículo analiza las tensiones entre instituidos e instituyentes en ambas redes, así como también pone la mirada desde los afectos en la producción de lo común. La pertinencia del estudio de este tipo de redes adquiere particular relevancia en el contexto actual de crisis económica, social y sanitaria, dado que dentro de los hallazgos principales encontramos que la participación permite politizar la existencia y habilita formas de subjetivación alternativas a las hegemónicas.

The Network of Rural Women's Groups and the Agroecology Network of Uruguay are presented, analyzed as affective and supportive community networks that burst into the public sphere during the last decades, in search of collective solutions for common needs. Both networks are characterized by claiming rights and questioning instituted, particularly in relation to environmental and gender issues. From qualitative action research methodologies, a score of individual and collective in-depth interviews, six workshops, participant observation in daily spaces of the networks and the collection of secondary information were carried out. The article analyzes the tensions between instituted and instituting in both networks, from a point of view of the affects in the production of the common. The relevance of the study of this type of networks acquires particular relevance in the current context of economic, social and health crisis, since among the main findings we find that participation allows to politicize existence and enables alternative forms of subjectivation to the hegemonic ones.

São apresentadas a Rede de Grupos de Mulheres Rurais e a Rede de Agroecologia do Uruguai, analisadas como redes comunitárias afetivas e solidárias que irromperam na esfera pública nas últimas décadas em busca de soluções coletivas para necessidades comuns. Ambas as redes se caracterizam pela reivindicação de direitos e questionamentos instituídos, principalmente em relação às questões ambientais e de gênero. A partir de metodologias qualitativas de pesquisa-ação, foram realizadas uma pontuação de entrevistas individuais e coletivas em profundidade, seis oficinas, observação participante nos espaços cotidianos das redes e coleta de informações secundárias. O artigo analisa as tensões entre instituído e instituinte em ambas as redes, do ponto de vista dos afetos na produção do comum. A relevância do estudo deste tipo de redes adquire particular relevância no atual contexto de crise económica, social e de saúde, uma vez que entre os principais achados encontramos que a participação permite politizar a existência e possibilitar formas alternativas de subjetivação às hegemônicas.

Phytotoxic, cytogenotoxic, and insecticidal activities of compounds from extracts of freshwater Lyngbya sp.

The development of agroecology has promoted the discovery of new bioactive compounds that might act as biocides to control infections and microbial contamination. Algae belonging to Lyngbya genus produce several allelochemicals, which are compounds with crop protection potential. The present study aimed to examine primary and secondary compounds derived from Lyngbya sp. extracts (aqueous and hydroethanolic) on phytotoxic, cytogenotoxic, and insecticidal activities. Determination of compounds indicated the presence predominantly of proteins and flavonoids. The extracts presented physicochemical characteristics that produced (1) 89% germination inhibition using hydroethanolic extract and (2) diminished development of seedlings of L. sativa by hydroethanolic extract as evidenced by reduced radicles length in 83.54%. Aqueous and hydroethanolic Lyngbya sp. extracts significantly interfered with meristematic cells of A. cepa, as evidenced by chromosomal alterations and aberrant mitotic phases in cells. Extracts also exhibited pro-oxidative activity and a potent insecticidal potential on S. zeamais, indicating that the hydroethanolic extract produced 100% insect mortality at 75 mg/ml after 48 hr while the aqueous extract initiated 90% mortality at the same concentration after 82 hr. Therefore, data demonstrate that Lyngbya genus provides basic information for new environmental and ecotoxicological studies to seek a possible source of proteins and flavonoids to be used in agroecological management.

Microbial natural bioactive formulations in citrus development.

Efficient Microorganisms (EM) are commonly used in organic crops; however, there are no studies on their effects on the production of citrus seedlings. The work aimed to evaluate the impact of applying the inoculants Native Efficient Microorganisms (NEM) and the commercial product EM1® in forming the seedling of the rootstock Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf and in the development of young plants of Sweet Orange "Valência" (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck) and Murcott tangor (Citrus sinensis x Citrus reticulata Blanco). The inoculant based on efficient microorganisms from the homemade technology of capture and multiplication, native efficient microorganisms (NEM), showed greater microbial diversity when compared to the commercial product EM1®. The results obtained from the dry mass analysis of the Valência orange and Murcott tangor plants indicate that positive effects resulting from the use of EM1® and NEM inoculums can be obtained by cultivating the respective crops in a system with oat straw cover. It was observed that the use of efficient microorganisms, as microbial natural bioactive formulation, has potential use in citrus and that farmers with fewer resources will be able to produce the microorganisms on their properties.

Diverse non-crop vegetation assemblages as banker plants for predatory mites in strawberry crop.

Non-crop plant diversity plays a fundamental role in the conservation of predatory mite (PM) and can be proposed as a banker plant system (BPS). BPSs provide plants that host natural enemies in greenhouses or field crops and may improve the efficiency of biological control. The aim of this study was to investigate if a diverse plant composition could be a suitable BPS for PMs in strawberry crops. A plant inventory characterized 22 species of non-crop plants harboring PMs. The most abundant PMs, in decreasing order, were Neoseiulus californicus, Neoseiulus anonymus, Euseius citrifolius, and Euseius concordis. PMs were randomly distributed among plants. We also found specific associations of Phytoseiidae species and phytophagous or generalist mites on plants. Due to this, four species were deemed suitable as banker plants: Capsicum sp., Leonurus sibiricus, Solanum americanum, and Urochloa mutica. Moreover, these plants combined a high PMs density and a low occurrence or absence of pest-mites. This study suggests shifting the traditional view that BPSs are composed of a limited number of species to use plant assemblages. This contributes to both conservation and augmentative biological control.

Effect of homeopathy on soybean germination through soil and seed treatment

Homeopathy is a technique approved by the MAPA for organic production systems. Experiments demonstrating the effectiveness of homeopathy in agriculture are essential. Aims: To evaluate the effects of homeopathic treatment on soybean seed germination. Methodology: The experiment was performed in MS-Brazil. An area of 70 m² was used, divided into two comparison plots of 30 m² each. The soil of plot 1 (treated group) was treated with 5.25 kg of powdered Lithothamniummixed with 250 ml of 30% hydroalcoholic solution (HS) containing homeopathic ingredients. The soil of plot 2 (control group) was treated with thesame preparationbutwithout homeopathic ingredients. Additionally, the 400 seeds assigned toplot 1 were treated with 0,3 ml of a solution made up of 10 ml of 30% HS with homeopathic ingredients dilutedin 300 ml of water. The 400 seeds assigned toplot 2 were treated with 0.3 ml of a solutionmade up of 10 ml of HS without homeopathic ingredients diluted in 300 ml of water. The homeopathic ingredients Sulph 9C, Mag-c12C, and Calc-p 9C were used on soil and seed treatment. The selection and prescription of those ingredients followed Materia Medica instructions. The experiment was conducted using randomized design and 400 seeds per group were sown. Results and discussion: In plot 1, anaverage of 11 seeds per m² germinated, adding up to 330 germinated seeds at a percentage of 82.5%. In plot 2, an average of 7 seeds per m² germinated, adding up to 210 germinated seeds at a percentage of 52.5%. The frequency of seed germinationin both groups was assessed by the Chi-square test to check for significant differences(p<0.05). There was a statistical difference (p<0.05) in the seed germination in the treated group (n=330) compared to the control group (n=210). Conclusion:Homeopathic compounds can be used as a viable treatment for soybean germination.