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Volume 14
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Agriculture, Volume 14, Issue 7 (July 2024) – 46 articles

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17 pages, 1572 KiB  
Article
TaqMan qPCR Detection and Quantification of Phytophthora cinnamomi in Soil and Plant Tissues for Walnut Disease Management
by Anita Haegi, Laura Luongo, Salvatore Vitale, Lorenza Tizzani and Alessandra Belisario
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 999; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070999 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 107
Abstract
Phytophthora cinnamomi is a devastating soil-borne plant pathogen. The primary source of P. cinnamomi infection is the soil, where the pathogen can persist for long periods. Effective prevention and management of this pathogen in tree crops requires an early and reliable detection method. [...] Read more.
Phytophthora cinnamomi is a devastating soil-borne plant pathogen. The primary source of P. cinnamomi infection is the soil, where the pathogen can persist for long periods. Effective prevention and management of this pathogen in tree crops requires an early and reliable detection method. In this study, we developed a simple, fast, reliable, and sensitive method based on real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for P. cinnamomi detection and quantification directly in plant or soil samples. Primers were developed targeting the nuclear single-copy ras-related protein gene Ypt1, suitable for Phytophthora-specific PCR. The specificity of the assay was confirmed by testing it against genomic DNA from 50 isolates across eight different Phytophthora clades, including the very similar P. parvispora. The efficiency and reliability of the qPCR protocol were evaluated in challenging environmental samples, such as plant tissue of different host trees (walnut, chestnut, oak) and naturally infected soils in walnut orchards. The main outcome was the development of a qPCR method for the specific identification and quantification of P. cinnamomi in natural soil samples. Additionally, this study established a systematic and repeatable soil sampling method and developed an efficient soil DNA extraction technique to apply the developed qPCR in naturally infested soils of walnut orchards. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Protection, Diseases, Pests and Weeds)
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1 pages, 117 KiB  
Correction
Correction: Brar et al. Assessment of Natural Ageing Related Physio-Biochemical Changes in Onion Seed. Agriculture 2019, 9, 163
by Navjot Singh Brar, Prashant Kaushik and Bagrawat Singh Dudi
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 998; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070998 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 58
Abstract
The Agriculture Editorial Office wishes to make the following changes to the author's paper [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Seed Science and Technology)
1 pages, 130 KiB  
Correction
Correction: Saini et al. Inoculation with Mycorrhizal Fungi and Other Microbes to Improve the Morpho-Physiological and Floral Traits of Gazania rigens (L.) Gaertn. Agriculture 2019, 9, 51
by Ishan Saini, Ashok Aggarwal and Prashant Kaushik
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070997 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 57
Abstract
The Agriculture Editorial Office wishes to make the following changes to the author’s paper [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Microbe Interactions)
19 pages, 2326 KiB  
Article
Improved Design and Simulation of an Integrated Ridge-Breaking Earth Cultivator for Ratoon Sugarcane Fields
by Biao Zhang, Jing Chen and Yingying Zhu
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1013; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071013 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2024
Abstract
Ridge-breaking earth cultivation is a new agronomic technology that simplifies and efficiently cultivates ratoon sugarcane. However, traditional cultivators cannot adapt to the distribution of residual stumps, inter-row specifications, and hardened clay soil. This results in substandard soil fragmentation, poor ridge quality, and reduced [...] Read more.
Ridge-breaking earth cultivation is a new agronomic technology that simplifies and efficiently cultivates ratoon sugarcane. However, traditional cultivators cannot adapt to the distribution of residual stumps, inter-row specifications, and hardened clay soil. This results in substandard soil fragmentation, poor ridge quality, and reduced operational reliability. To address these issues, this article proposes an integrated earth cultivator structure capable of breaking ridges, loosening soil, and raising ridges simultaneously. It is designed to enhance the breaking of tillage layers and the filling of ridges through the coordinated action of multiple soil-engaging components. The effects of pre-loosening by the ridge-breaking plow, high-energy crushing, and throwing by the spirally arranged dense rotary blade group, and soil gathering by the deflector are comprehensively utilized. Additionally, lateral pushing by the ridging plough is employed. Discrete element and finite element simulation results show that densely toothed blades can improve soil supply capacity and structural reliability. This is achieved by increasing the amount of soil throwback and reducing concentrated stress levels. Soil fragmentation rate (SFR) and ridge height (RH) were further used as indicators. Field experiments were conducted to study the effects of operating parameters on breaking and ridging performance. The optimal parameter solution was determined as a forward speed of 0.85 m·s−1 and rotary speed of 289.7 r·min−1. With this adaptive configuration, SFR and RH were improved by 12.4% and 38.5%, respectively, compared with conventional earth cultivators. Additionally, the RSM value of rotary tillage power (Pr) was reduced by 39.6%. Improvements in crushing hardened fields, constructing ridges, and reducing cutting energy consumption have proven effective. This study can provide a reference for the development of earth cultivators based on new agronomy and specific field characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Technology)
12 pages, 849 KiB  
Article
New Frontiers in the Cultivation of Edible Fungi: The Application of Biostimulants Enhances the Nutritional Characteristics of Pleurotus eryngii (DC.) Quél
by Riccardo Fedeli, Irene Mazza, Claudia Perini, Elena Salerni and Stefano Loppi
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1012; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071012 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 117
Abstract
Fungi, particularly Pleurotus eryngii, emerges as a promising solution for sustainable non-animal protein production, requiring less land and growing on waste materials. In connection with population growth, sustainable solutions must be found to increase yield and product quality without resorting to the [...] Read more.
Fungi, particularly Pleurotus eryngii, emerges as a promising solution for sustainable non-animal protein production, requiring less land and growing on waste materials. In connection with population growth, sustainable solutions must be found to increase yield and product quality without resorting to the use of synthetic chemical fertilizers. Several biobased products are currently on the market; one of the most interesting is wood distillate (WD), derived from the pyrolysis process of the woody material. WD is rich in biologically active substances such as polyphenols, alcohols, acids, and esters, and its use is authorized in organic agriculture. The study investigates the use of WD in cultivating P. eryngii. We tested different concentrations of WD: 0%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.5%, and 1% WD on the growth of P. eryngii. Although WD did not significantly affect the yield (fresh weight), it led to a substantial increase in total soluble protein content and antioxidant compounds, such as phenols and vitamin C, and a reduction in glycogen content, especially at 0.2% WD. The results highlight the potential of biostimulants in mushroom cultivation, providing the ground for further research to improve the nutritional properties of cultivated mushrooms through wood distillate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Production)
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20 pages, 6245 KiB  
Article
YOLOv8n-DDA-SAM: Accurate Cutting-Point Estimation for Robotic Cherry-Tomato Harvesting
by Gengming Zhang, Hao Cao, Yangwen Jin, Yi Zhong, Anbang Zhao, Xiangjun Zou and Hongjun Wang
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1011; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071011 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 81
Abstract
Accurately identifying cherry-tomato picking points and obtaining their coordinate locations is critical to the success of cherry-tomato picking robots. However, previous methods for semantic segmentation alone or combining object detection with traditional image processing have struggled to accurately determine the cherry-tomato picking point [...] Read more.
Accurately identifying cherry-tomato picking points and obtaining their coordinate locations is critical to the success of cherry-tomato picking robots. However, previous methods for semantic segmentation alone or combining object detection with traditional image processing have struggled to accurately determine the cherry-tomato picking point due to challenges such as leaves as well as targets that are too small. In this study, we propose a YOLOv8n-DDA-SAM model that adds a semantic segmentation branch to target detection to achieve the desired detection and compute the picking point. To be specific, YOLOv8n is used as the initial model, and a dynamic snake convolutional layer (DySnakeConv) that is more suitable for the detection of the stems of cherry-tomato is used in neck of the model. In addition, the dynamic large convolutional kernel attention mechanism adopted in backbone and the use of ADown convolution resulted in a better fusion of the stem features with the neck features and a certain decrease in the number of model parameters without loss of accuracy. Combined with semantic branch SAM, the mask of picking points is effectively obtained and then the accurate picking point is obtained by simple shape-centering calculation. As suggested by the experimental results, the proposed YOLOv8n-DDA-SAM model is significantly improved from previous models not only in detecting stems but also in obtaining stem’s masks. In the [email protected] and F1-score, the YOLOv8n-DDA-SAM achieved 85.90% and 86.13% respectively. Compared with the original YOLOv8n, YOLOv7, RT-DETR-l and YOLOv9c, the [email protected] has improved by 24.7%, 21.85%, 19.76%, 15.99% respectively. F1-score has increased by 16.34%, 12.11%, 10.09%, 8.07% respectively, and the number of parameters is only 6.37M. In the semantic segmentation branch, not only does it not need to produce relevant datasets, but also improved its mIOU by 11.43%, 6.94%, 5.53%, 4.22% and [email protected] by 12.33%, 7.49%, 6.4%, 5.99% compared to Deeplabv3+, Mask2former, DDRNet and SAN respectively. In summary, the model can well satisfy the requirements of high-precision detection and provides a strategy for the detection system of the cherry-tomato. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Robots for Agriculture: Design, Development and Applications)
25 pages, 1891 KiB  
Article
A Multidisciplinary Approach for the Development of a Supply Chain in Biomass Conversion of Agrifood Waste Mediated by Larvae of Hermetia illucens L.: From Rearing to By-Product Exploitation
by Eleonora De Santis, Alberto de Iudicibus, Francesca Lecce, Massimiliano De Mei, Francesco Petrazzuolo, Angelo Del Giudice, Monica Carnevale, Francesco Gallucci, Claudio Beni, Alberto Assirelli, Enrico Santangelo and Silvia Arnone
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1010; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071010 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 104
Abstract
Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) can convert various organic substrates into high added-value biomass. In addition, the residue can be used as a soil conditioner. Several studies have been conducted on a laboratory scale that may not represent what happens on a prototype [...] Read more.
Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) can convert various organic substrates into high added-value biomass. In addition, the residue can be used as a soil conditioner. Several studies have been conducted on a laboratory scale that may not represent what happens on a prototype scale. Using fruit and vegetable waste as a basic substrate, mixing them with agro-industry by-products (called co-substrates), the Hermes project set up a process on medium (2 kg) and large (10 kg) scales with two different feeding regimes (1.25 g/BSFL and 2 g/BSFL). At the mature stage, larval biomass was separated from frass (the by-product of the larval rearing). The production of larval proteins and fats and the use of frass as soil conditioning were evaluated. The lowest feeding regime (1.25 g/BSFL) provided the best waste valorization. The shift towards higher production scales is not completely linear. The addition of co-substrates to fruit and vegetable waste, as they are provided by the large-scale retail trade, can help to standardize a process as part of an insect farm. The frass recovered from the residue of rearing (on the diet or on the agrifood leftovers) was composted and used in field to grow a processing tomato variety. The addition of composted frass assured a slightly lower yield than synthetic fertilizer but there was no statistically significant difference (p > 0.10). This suggests that partial replacement of synthetic fertilizer with composted frass has potential. Overall, the work demonstrated that, using a multidisciplinary approach, the interest and the value in building a supply chain based on bioconversion mediated by Hermetia illucens can be emphasized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Perspectives of Edible Insect Rearing and Utilization of Their Products and Byproducts)
17 pages, 913 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Flax and Mustard Seed Inclusion in Dairy Goats’ Diet on Milk Nutritional Quality
by Alexandra-Gabriela Oancea, Catalin Dragomir, Arabela Elena Untea, Mihaela Saracila, Ana Elena Cismileanu, Petru Alexandru Vlaicu and Iulia Varzaru
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1009; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071009 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 108
Abstract
Our study evaluated the impact of incorporating flax seeds or a flax and mustard seeds’ mixture into goats’ diets to enhance milk polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The incorporation of mustard seeds also aimed to slow the lipid oxidation process. A three-week feeding trial [...] Read more.
Our study evaluated the impact of incorporating flax seeds or a flax and mustard seeds’ mixture into goats’ diets to enhance milk polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The incorporation of mustard seeds also aimed to slow the lipid oxidation process. A three-week feeding trial was conducted on 18 lactating goats, randomly distributed in three groups: control (C), FS (replacing 12% of the oil source with flax seeds), and FMS (replacing a quarter of flax seeds with mustard seeds). Flax seed inclusion improved the quality of milk fat by reducing saturated fatty acid concentration (p = 0.004) and increasing PUFA levels (p = 0.001). Both experimental groups significantly lowered the omega 6/omega 3 fatty acid ratio (p < 0.001). The FMS group showed a significantly higher total vitamin E concentration (p = 0.007). The fat oxidation parameters revealed that after 24 h of storage at room temperature, the p-anisidine value increased for the FS group compared to the C group, while the FSM group showed no significant difference, suggesting that the combined inclusion of flax and mustard seeds may prolong milk storage time by mitigating secondary oxidation products. This highlights the potential benefits of incorporating the studied seeds into goats’ diets for improving milk quality and extending its shelf life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic The New Era of Food and Agriculture: Sustainable Strategies to Achieve Zero Hunger)
21 pages, 9721 KiB  
Article
Simulation Analysis and Parameter Optimization of Seed–Flesh Separation Process of Seed Melon Crushing and Seed Extraction Separator Based on DEM
by Qi Luo, Xiaopeng Huang, Jinfeng Wu, Xiaobin Mou, Yanrui Xu, Shengyuan Li, Guojun Ma, Fangxin Wan and Lizeng Peng
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071008 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 92
Abstract
In order to enhance the comprehensive processing quality and production efficiency of seed melons, a seed melon crushing and seed-extraction separator has been developed and designed. Aiming at the issues of high impurity rate and scratch rate of melon seeds in the process [...] Read more.
In order to enhance the comprehensive processing quality and production efficiency of seed melons, a seed melon crushing and seed-extraction separator has been developed and designed. Aiming at the issues of high impurity rate and scratch rate of melon seeds in the process of seed–flesh separation, the structure and parameters of the seed–flesh separation device were optimized in this study by simulation analysis and field testing. The simulation model of melon seed, melon flesh, and the seed–flesh separation device based on the discrete element method (DEM) was established, and the simulation parameters were calibrated. Subsequently, the melon seed impurity rate (G1) and the melon seed scratch rate (G2) were used as the evaluation indexes. The single-factor simulation test was carried out on the separation roller speed (A). The spacing between the scraper and the screen (B), the separation roller scraper inclination angle (C), and the influence rules of each factor on the separation effect of the seed–flesh were obtained. Finally, the three-factor and three-level orthogonal test was carried out. Using the method of ANOVA and multi-objective optimization, the optimal working parameters of the device were obtained as A-117.53 r/min, B-5 mm, and C-10°, at which time the optimal evaluation indexes were G1-5.59% and G2-2.85%. The prototype test was carried out with the optimization results. The values of G1 and G2 were measured at 5.71% and 2.91%, respectively, and the relative errors with the simulation values were 2.15% and 2.11%, respectively, which were basically the same between the simulation model and the prototype test. The results indicate that the designed separation roller speed, spacing between the scraper and screen, and separation roller scraper inclination angle can meet the requirements of seed–flesh separation in the seed melon crushing and seed-extraction separator. The results of the DEM study can provide a reference for the optimal design of the seed–flesh separation device. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Technology)
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24 pages, 986 KiB  
Article
Technical Efficiency and Allocative Efficiency of Beef Cattle Fattening in The Content of Digital Economy: An Empirical Study Based on Survey in China
by Yongjie Xue, Zhenhua Qi, Jinling Yan, Dahai Li, Huifeng Zhao and Haijing Zheng
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1007; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071007 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 71
Abstract
This study applies data envelopment analysis (DEA) to gauge technical efficiency and allocative efficiency in China’s beef cattle-fattening industry using survey data. The Tobit model considers the salient determinants that drive these efficiencies. The results indicate that (1) large-scale farms exhibit robust TE [...] Read more.
This study applies data envelopment analysis (DEA) to gauge technical efficiency and allocative efficiency in China’s beef cattle-fattening industry using survey data. The Tobit model considers the salient determinants that drive these efficiencies. The results indicate that (1) large-scale farms exhibit robust TE and pure technical efficiencies (PTE), whereas scale efficiencies (SE) diverge significantly between large and medium-sized operations. The cost efficiency (CE) of smaller farms lags behind their larger counterparts, with the latter displaying greater revenue efficiencies (RE) and profit efficiency (PE). (2) The influence of identical factors on the efficiency of beef cattle fattening production can vary, sometimes antithetically, across different scales. Local policy interventions must be differentiated according to farm type and size. (3) The unique context of China’s national conditions and the status quo of livestock farming render the dual implementation of environmental regulations and technological subsidies less viable for Chinese beef cattle farms. These entities should prioritize production over technological innovation and advancement. Policymakers should adopt strategies such as targeted skill/technological training for farm managers at particular scales of operation. This could represent a critical trajectory to augment the efficiency of beef cattle production and increase beef yield in China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
16 pages, 1279 KiB  
Article
Preparation of Nanoscale Indoxacarb by using Star Polymer for Efficiency Pest Management
by Min Chen, Jie Zhang, Hongtao Wang, Lingyun Li, Meizhen Yin, Jie Shen, Shuo Yan and Baoyou Liu
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1006; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071006 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 96
Abstract
The utilization efficiency of conventional pesticides is relatively low in agricultural production, resulting in excessive application and environmental pollution. The efficient utilization of pesticides is crucial for promoting sustainable agriculture, and the development of nanopesticides presents a promising solution to the challenges associated [...] Read more.
The utilization efficiency of conventional pesticides is relatively low in agricultural production, resulting in excessive application and environmental pollution. The efficient utilization of pesticides is crucial for promoting sustainable agriculture, and the development of nanopesticides presents a promising solution to the challenges associated with traditional pesticides. In order to explore an efficient application method for indendicarb (IDC), a star polymer nanocarrier (SPc) was employed to design and construct an efficient nanodelivery system for IDC. In this study, the morphology and physicochemical properties of the complex were determined, and its bioactivity and control efficacy were assessed using leaf-dipping and field spraying methods. The results show that IDC could be spontaneously incorporated into the hydrophobic core of SPc via hydrophobic association. This assembly disrupted the self-aggregated structure of IDC and significantly reduced its particle size to nanoscale. Furthermore, IDC emulsifiable concentrate (IDC EC) demonstrated improved adhesion to plant leaves with the aid of SPc, increasing retention from 8.083 to 10.418 mg/cm2. The LC50 (1d) of IDC EC against Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus) and Pieris rapae (Linnaeus) decreased by 6.784 and 1.931 times, respectively, with the addition of SPc. The inclusion of SPc increased the control effect of IDC EC by up to 8.28% (7d, 3000×) for P. xylostella and 12.53% (3d, 8000×) for P. rapae. This reveals that the IDC EC + SPc formulation exhibits superior insecticidal activity against these two highly destructive insect pests. This study successfully developed a novel nanodelivery system for the efficient application of IDC, which has the potential to reduce over-application and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Comprehensive Application and Prospects of New Technologies for Plant Protection)
19 pages, 3833 KiB  
Review
Open Remote Sensing Data in Digital Soil Organic Carbon Mapping: A Review
by Dorijan Radočaj, Mateo Gašparović and Mladen Jurišić
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071005 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 70
Abstract
This review focuses on digital soil organic carbon (SOC) mapping at regional or national scales in spatial resolutions up to 1 km using open data remote sensing sources, emphasizing its importance in achieving United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to hunger, climate [...] Read more.
This review focuses on digital soil organic carbon (SOC) mapping at regional or national scales in spatial resolutions up to 1 km using open data remote sensing sources, emphasizing its importance in achieving United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to hunger, climate action, and land conservation. The literature review was performed according to scientific studies indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection database since 2000. The analysis reveals a steady rise in total digital soil mapping studies since 2000, with digital SOC mapping studies accounting for over 20% of these studies in 2023, among which SDGs 2 (Zero Hunger) and 13 (Climate Action) were the most represented. Notably, countries like the United States, China, Germany, and Iran lead in digital SOC mapping research. The shift towards machine and deep learning methods in digital SOC mapping has surged post-2010, necessitating environmental covariates like topography, climate, and spectral data, which are cornerstones of machine and deep learning prediction methods. It was noted that the available climate data primarily restrict the spatial resolution of digital SOC mapping to 1 km, which typically requires downscaling to harmonize with topography (up to 30 m) and multispectral data (up to 10–30 m). Future directions include the integration of diverse remote sensing data sources, the development of advanced algorithms leveraging machine learning, and the utilization of high-resolution remote sensing for more precise SOC mapping. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Digital Agriculture)
18 pages, 1309 KiB  
Article
Research on Predictive Control Method of Pigsty Environment Based on Fuzzy Control
by Fengwu Zhu, Yuqing Zhang, Weijian Zhang, Tianshi Gao, Suyu Wang and Lina Zhou
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071004 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 90
Abstract
At present, most of the environmental control systems of pigsties use direct control methods; when factors, such as temperature and humidity, exceed the set threshold value, the corresponding actuator is turned on for regulation. However, such methods have problems such as low control [...] Read more.
At present, most of the environmental control systems of pigsties use direct control methods; when factors, such as temperature and humidity, exceed the set threshold value, the corresponding actuator is turned on for regulation. However, such methods have problems such as low control accuracy, high energy consumption, and untimeliness. In order to save on energy consumption and improve control accuracy, this paper takes the predicted value, set value, and current detection value of the internal environment of a pigsty as input, and combines fuzzy control and direct control methods to realize the predictive control of the pigsty environment. The test results show that, compared with the direct control method, the fuzzy predictive control method can make fluctuations in the internal temperature and humidity of the pigsty less close to the set threshold value, while the ammonia concentration hardly exceeds the set threshold value. The results show that predictive control can more accurately control the internal environment of the pigsty and reduce energy costs by about 20%. Therefore, this method can provide scientific and effective environmental control methods for agricultural production processes, such as livestock breeding and greenhouse cultivation, in semi-confined spaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Animal Welfare: Precision Livestock Farming Technologies for Monitoring and Preventing Abnormal Behavior)
14 pages, 4427 KiB  
Article
Improved Lightweight Zero-Reference Deep Curve Estimation Low-Light Enhancement Algorithm for Night-Time Cow Detection
by Zijia Yu, Yangyang Guo, Liyuan Zhang, Yi Ding, Gan Zhang and Dongyan Zhang
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071003 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 121
Abstract
With the advancement of agricultural intelligence, dairy-cow farming has become a significant industry, and the application of computer vision technology in the automated monitoring of dairy cows has also attracted much attention. However, most of the images in the conventional detection dataset are [...] Read more.
With the advancement of agricultural intelligence, dairy-cow farming has become a significant industry, and the application of computer vision technology in the automated monitoring of dairy cows has also attracted much attention. However, most of the images in the conventional detection dataset are high-quality images under normal lighting, which makes object detection very challenging in low-light environments at night. Therefore, this study proposed a night-time detection framework for cows based on an improved lightweight Zero-DCE (Zero-Reference Deep Curve Estimation) image enhancement network for low-light images. Firstly, the original feature extraction network of Zero-DCE was redesigned with an upsampling structure to reduce the influence of noise. Secondly, a self-attention gating mechanism was introduced in the skip connections of the Zero-DCE to enhance the network’s attention to the cow area. Then, an improved kernel selection module was introduced in the feature fusion stage to adaptively adjust the size of the receptive field. Finally, a depthwise separable convolution was used to replace the standard convolution of Zero-DCE, and an Attentive Convolutional Transformer (ACT) module was used to replace the iterative approach in Zero-DCE, which further reduced the computational complexity of the network and speeded up the inference. Four different object-detection models, YOLOv5, CenterNet, EfficientDet, and YOLOv7-tiny, were selected to evaluate the performance of the improved network and were tested on the night-time dataset before and after enhancement. Experimental results demonstrate that the detection performance of all models is significantly improved when processing night-time image samples through the enhanced Zero-DCE model. In summary, the improved lightweight Zero-DCE low-light enhancement network proposed in this study shows excellent performance, which can ensure that various object-detection models can quickly and accurately identify targets in low-light environments at night and are suitable for real-time monitoring in actual production environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farm Animal Production)
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12 pages, 1484 KiB  
Article
Identification and Fine Mapping of Quantitative Trait Loci for Tiller Angle Using Chromosome Segment Substitution Lines in Rice (Oryza Sativa L.)
by Yujia Leng, Tao Tao, Shuai Lu, Ran Liu, Qingqing Yang, Mingqiu Zhang, Lianmin Hong, Qianqian Guo, Xinzhe Ren, Zhidi Yang, Xiuling Cai, Sukui Jin and Jiping Gao
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071002 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 92
Abstract
The tiller angle, which is an important agronomic trait, determines plant architecture and greatly influences the grain yield of rice. In this study, a population of chromosome segment substitution lines derived from a cross between a japonica variety with a compact plant architecture—Koshihikari—and [...] Read more.
The tiller angle, which is an important agronomic trait, determines plant architecture and greatly influences the grain yield of rice. In this study, a population of chromosome segment substitution lines derived from a cross between a japonica variety with a compact plant architecture—Koshihikari—and an indica variety with a spread-out plant architecture—Nona Bokra—was used to investigate the genetic basis of the tiller angle. Five quantitative trait loci (qTA1, qTA5, qTA9-1, qTA9-2, and qTA11) for the tiller angle were detected on chromosomes 1, 5, 9, 9, and 11 in two different environments. The phenotypic variation in these QTLs ranged from 3.78% to 8.22%. Two pairs of digenic epistatic QTLs were detected in Lingshui. The epistatic interaction explained 15.19% and 13.60% of the phenotypic variance, respectively. Among the five QTLs, qTA9-2 was detected in both environments. An F2 mapping population containing the qTA9-2 QTL was established. The location of qTA9-2 was narrowed down to a 187 kb region between InDel markers M9 and M10 on chromosome 9. Thirty open reading frames (ORFs), including TAC1, a gene known to regulate the tiller angle, were identified in this region. The gene sequencing results suggested that a base substitution from G to A at position 1557 in the 3′-untranslated region led to a difference in the expression of qTA9-2 in Koshihikari and Nona Bokra. These findings provide a potential gene resource for the improvement of rice plant architecture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations and Advances in Rice Molecular Breeding)
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15 pages, 3569 KiB  
Article
Experimental and Numerical Analysis of Straw Motion under the Action of an Anti-Blocking Mechanism for a No-Till Maize Planter
by Qingyi Zhang, Huimin Fang, Gaowei Xu, Mengmeng Niu and Jinyu Li
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1001; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071001 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 91
Abstract
To address the low clearance rate issue of the anti-blocking mechanism for maize no-till planters in the Huang-Huai-Hai Plain of China, experiments and simulations were conducted to analyze the individual and collective movements of straw under the action of the round roller-claw anti-blocking [...] Read more.
To address the low clearance rate issue of the anti-blocking mechanism for maize no-till planters in the Huang-Huai-Hai Plain of China, experiments and simulations were conducted to analyze the individual and collective movements of straw under the action of the round roller-claw anti-blocking mechanism. A tracer-based measurement method for straw displacement was applied firstly. Experimental results showed that the straw forward displacement could be characterized by the average horizontal displacements of longitudinal and lateral tracers, while the straw side displacement could be characterized by the lateral displacement of the longitudinal tracer. The straw forward displacement was 58.95% greater than the side displacement. Forward, side, and total displacements of straw increased as the mechanism’s forward speed increased from 3 km/h to 7 km/h, with corresponding rates of increase at 233.98%, 43.20%, and 162.47%, respectively. Furthermore, a model of straw–soil–mechanism interaction was constructed in EDEM 2022 software. The relative error between experimental and simulated straw clearance rates was 11.20%, confirming the applicability of the simulation model for studying straw–soil–mechanism interaction. Based on the simulation model, three straw tracers of different lengths were selected to study the motion behavior of straw. It was inferred that despite differences in straw length, the movement behaviors of the three straw tracers under the influence of the anti-blocking mechanism were similar. Additionally, longer straws exhibited greater displacements in all directions. This paper serves as a reference for studying straw motion behavior influenced by anti-blocking mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Planting Technology and Equipment in Advanced Crop Cultivation)
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16 pages, 1231 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Drought Effects on the Soil Moisture Level and Penetration Resistance in Conventional and Non-Conventional Tillage Systems in Maize Production
by István Sojnóczki, János Nagy, Árpád Illés, István Kecskés and Csaba Bojtor
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1000; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071000 - 26 Jun 2024
Viewed by 106
Abstract
The period of extreme weather anomalies in recent years has challenged farmers, and this has encouraged greater adaptability in farming practices. In the last decade, conventional tillage systems have been complemented by more biologically based cropping systems. The research evaluated the impact of [...] Read more.
The period of extreme weather anomalies in recent years has challenged farmers, and this has encouraged greater adaptability in farming practices. In the last decade, conventional tillage systems have been complemented by more biologically based cropping systems. The research evaluated the impact of drought on soil physical parameters in maize production by testing different conventional and non-conventional tillage systems to ensure optimal soil physical parameters. In the analysis of the prevailing weather conditions, rainfall values were divided into two parts, the pre-growing season and the growing season. We studied different climatic seasons. In 2021, the soil moisture content in the upper shallow 15 cm soil layer during the sowing period in April in the case of conventional tillage was significantly lower than in reduced tillage, conservation tillage and strip tillage. The most significant difference was measured between conventional and conservation tillage, with a difference of 11.25 v/v%. The 2022 crop year was extremely dry. In June, the highest moisture value in the soil was measured in the case of strip tillage with a value of 21.64 v/v%, which was more than 60% higher than in the case of conventional and conservation tillage. In conventional tillage, a very pronounced compacted layer was observed in the lower part of the ploughed layer. This zone reached a compaction of 6.9 MPa between 28 and 34 cm, which is agronomically harmful. No compacted soil layer was found in the experiment site under conservation tillage. In the severe drought year of 2022, only the strip-till system provided the proper water management conditions for the maize stand. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Multiple Stress Tolerance in Maize)
16 pages, 1095 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Contact Force on an Apple Picking Robot End-Effector
by Hongwei Zhang, Wei Ji, Bo Xu and Xiaowei Yu
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 996; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070996 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 140
Abstract
The quality of apple picking affects the sales of apples, and the grasping force of the end effector of an apple picking robot is very important for apple picking. It is easy to cause apple damage due to excessive contact force, or when [...] Read more.
The quality of apple picking affects the sales of apples, and the grasping force of the end effector of an apple picking robot is very important for apple picking. It is easy to cause apple damage due to excessive contact force, or when the contact force is too small to grasp the apple. However, the current research lacks an analysis of the minimum stable grasping force of apples. Therefore, in order to realize the stable grasping of apples by the end-effector of a picking robot and reduce fruit damage, this study first analyzes the grasping stability of the end-effector based on the force closure theory, and comprehensively considers the force closure constraints, nonlinear friction cone constraints and the introduction of torque constraints. Next, the constraint conditions are processed using an obstacle function, and a penalty factor is introduced to construct an optimization model of the contact force distribution of the end-effector. Then, the improved Newton method is used to grasp and solve the contact force distribution model. Under the premise of selecting the penalty factor, the optimal contact force of grasping an apple is determined using a method of numerical example simulation analysis, and the validity of the solution is verified. In order to verify the reliability of the contact force distribution optimization model, the practical significance of the method for apple grasping is verified in an actual grasping experiment. The actual experiment shows that the method can provide the minimum stable grasping force to the end-effector to achieve stable grasping. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Agriculture Technology—Using Computer Simulation for Agricultural Machinery Design and Development)
21 pages, 975 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Digital Finance on Enhancing the Spatial Effects of Heterogeneous Environmental Regulations in Supporting Agricultural Green Total Factor Productivity
by Ruining Li, Qinghua Chen and Meng Li
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 995; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070995 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 219
Abstract
Improving agricultural green total factor productivity (AGTFP) is the key to achieving sustainable agricultural development and empowering agricultural modernization. Based on the panel data of 30 provincial levels in China from 2011 to 2021, AGTFP is measured using the non-expected MinDS super-efficiency—MetaFrontier Malmquist [...] Read more.
Improving agricultural green total factor productivity (AGTFP) is the key to achieving sustainable agricultural development and empowering agricultural modernization. Based on the panel data of 30 provincial levels in China from 2011 to 2021, AGTFP is measured using the non-expected MinDS super-efficiency—MetaFrontier Malmquist model, and the impact of environmental regulation (ER) and digital finance on AGTFP is analyzed using the spatial Durbin model (SDM). The results show the following: (1) ER can increase local AGTFP and has a positive spatial spillover effect. Command-based ER has the highest impact on AGTFP, followed by market-incentive and public-voluntary ER. (2) Digital finance has a direct promotional effect on local AGTFP, while it has an inhibitory effect on AGTFP in neighboring regions due to the siphon effect. (3) Digital finance is an important regulatory variable affecting AGTFP concerning command-based, market-incentive and public-voluntary ER. Digital finance plays a significantly moderating role in the effectiveness of the three ERs on AGTFP, with the market-incentive ER being the highest in eastern China. Nonetheless, digital finance has a significantly moderating effect on the effectiveness of command-based and public-voluntary ER on AGTFP, with command-based ER being higher in central China. Meanwhile, digital finance only plays a significantly moderating role in the effectiveness of command-based environment regulation on AGTFP in western China. This study provides valuable reference for policymakers concerning agriculture green production in varied regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management and Migration of Pollutants for Agroecosystem Green Development)
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16 pages, 1690 KiB  
Article
Effects of Buried Straw Strips with Different Internal Structures on Water and Salt Distribution and Leaching Efficiency in Coastal Saline Soil
by Umidbek Masharifov, Zhenchang Wang, Qingxin Li, Yaosheng Wang, Minghao Tian, Xiaoman Qiang, Jinjing Liu, Yuexiong Wang, Yanwei Fan, Kexin Chen, Sheng Chen and Cheng Hong
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 994; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070994 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 171
Abstract
Straw strip burial in saline soil is an effective method for tideland reclamation in China, but optimal forms of straw strips for regulating soil water and salinity remain unclear. An indoor soil column test investigated the water and salt distribution in soil treated [...] Read more.
Straw strip burial in saline soil is an effective method for tideland reclamation in China, but optimal forms of straw strips for regulating soil water and salinity remain unclear. An indoor soil column test investigated the water and salt distribution in soil treated with four different straw forms under freshwater irrigation. The treatments included no straw layer (CK), straw stalks arranged longitudinally (T5), horizontally (T25), longitudinally combined horizontally in layers (T25+2.5), and randomly (T2.5). The results showed that compared to CK, T25, T5, and T25+2.5 significantly reduced the infiltration rate of irrigation water, leading to prolonged infiltration times. Wetting front curves under T5, T25+2.5, and T25 exhibited similar inverted “V” shapes, while CK and T2.5 showed fluctuating parallel lines. Water retention in the soil was higher under straw strip treatments (T5, T25, T25+2.5) and straw layer treatment (T2.5) compared to CK after 24 h of the first irrigation. T5 demonstrated the most effective salt removal, surpassing other treatments, with a desalination rate of 97.71%. Additionally, T5 had the highest salt leaching efficiency (SLE) in the 0–20 cm soil layer, recommending it as the optimal form for managing saline soils in crop production due to its simplicity and higher SLE. We found that buried straw strips reduced soil water infiltration rate and wetting front propulsion speed, increased soil water content and enhanced salt leaching efficiency in the saline soil. Our findings provide a basis for developing strategies that improve soil quality and irrigation efficiency, mitigate the effects of salinity on crop production, and ensure food security for a rapidly growing global population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Saline–Alkali Land Ecology and Soil Management)
14 pages, 723 KiB  
Article
Fatty Acid Content and Oxidative Stability in Eggs and Breast Muscle of Sasso Chickens Fed Different Levels of Dodonaea angustifolia Polyphenol in Flaxseed-Enriched Diets
by Desalew Tadesse, Negussie Retta, Wondmeneh Esatu, Henock Woldemichael Woldemariam, Nicholas Ndiwa, Olivier Hanotte, Paulos Getachew, Dirk Dannenberger and Steffen Maak
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 993; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070993 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 108
Abstract
In chicken diet with dietary fat, adding plant polyphenols as a natural antioxidant is recommended to enhance the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) content and improve oxidative stability in meat and eggs. However, high plant polyphenol doses could act as a pro-oxidant [...] Read more.
In chicken diet with dietary fat, adding plant polyphenols as a natural antioxidant is recommended to enhance the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) content and improve oxidative stability in meat and eggs. However, high plant polyphenol doses could act as a pro-oxidant and interfere with the absorption of n-3 PUFAs. The study aimed to determine the effects of Dodoneae angustifolia (D. angustifolia) polyphenol levels in flaxseed-enriched diets on fatty acid content and oxidative stability in the meat and eggs of Sasso chickens. Chickens received 0, 200, 500, or 800 mg of D. angustifolia extract/kg diet designated as DA0, DA2, DA5, and DA8 treatments, respectively. Results showed that the breast muscle content of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3) in 200 and 500 mg extract/kg diet and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5n-3) in 800 mg extract/kg diet increased (p < 0.05) compared to those who did not receive. Feeding D. angustifolia polyphenol levels had no significant effect on egg yolk n-3 PUFA content. However, a decrease (p < 0.05) in egg yolk n-6 PUFAs was observed in hens with an increase in the dose of D. angustifolia polyphenol extract. In breast muscle, feeding on a 500 mg extract/kg diet decreased lipid peroxidation (p < 0.05) compared to the control diet. However, feeding different doses of D. angustifolia extracts had no effect on egg yolk lipid peroxidation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development of Natural Bioactive Compounds/Products in Animal Resource and Agriculture Science: Volume II)
13 pages, 2090 KiB  
Article
Early Socialization Triggered ROS-Mediated Activation of Canonical NF-κB Pathway Leading to Inflammation of Spleen in Suckling Piglets
by Yue Yang, Mengyao Wu, Xiaolong Zhang, Yunlong Zhao, Sitong Zhou, Wenbo Ji and Honggui Liu
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070992 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 123
Abstract
Early socialization during lactation is advocated as a feeding strategy to reduce the weaning stress of piglets. However, early socialization has often been accompanied by more frequent aggression between individuals, and its effect on the immune system of piglets has yet to be [...] Read more.
Early socialization during lactation is advocated as a feeding strategy to reduce the weaning stress of piglets. However, early socialization has often been accompanied by more frequent aggression between individuals, and its effect on the immune system of piglets has yet to be evaluated. In this study, 89 piglets were raised separately under conventional feeding and early socialization environments. Based on differences in the aggressive behavior of the piglets in different environments during lactation, we further investigated the effects of early socialization on oxidative stress in the spleen of the piglets and the inflammatory responses involved in the canonical nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway. The results revealed that early socialization led to a higher aggression level between individuals (p < 0.01), increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and H2O2 levels and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity, and inhibited glutathione (GSH) levels and the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in the piglet spleens (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of the protein kinase A (PKA), inhibitor of kappa B kinase-α (IKK-α), inhibitor of kappa B kinase-β (IKK-β), inhibitor of NF-κB-α (IκB-α), NF-κB(p65), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), iNOS, and heat shock protein (HSP) genes were significantly up-regulated, as well as the protein levels of P-p65, IKK-β, P-IkB-α, pro-IL-1β, and TNF-α. In summary, early socialization caused oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in the spleen of the piglets by inducing ROS production and the activation of the canonical NF-κB pathway. Our study revealed that early socialization significantly increased the ROS level in the piglet spleens and activated the canonical NF-κB signaling pathway, which induced a high expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and COX2) and HSP genes regulated by NF-κB signaling, leading to oxidative stress and the inflammatory response. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farm Animal Production)
4 pages, 314 KiB  
Editorial
Beyond Agriculture 4.0: Design and Development of Modern Agricultural Machines and Production Systems
by Nicolae-Valentin Vlăduț and Nicoleta Ungureanu
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 991; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070991 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 115
Abstract
Technological breakthroughs have transformed the agricultural industry, resulting in the emergence of Agriculture 4 [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beyond Agriculture 4.0: Design and Development of Modern Agricultural Machines and Production Systems)
28 pages, 3196 KiB  
Article
Early Crop Identification Study Based on Sentinel-1/2 Images with Feature Optimization Strategy
by Jiansong Luo, Min Xie, Qiang Wu, Jun Luo, Qi Gao, Xuezhi Shao and Yongping Zhang
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070990 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 120
Abstract
The timely and accurate mapping of crop types is crucial for agricultural insurance, futures, and assessments of food security risks. However, crop mapping is currently focused on the post-harvest period, and less attention has been paid to early crop mapping. In this study, [...] Read more.
The timely and accurate mapping of crop types is crucial for agricultural insurance, futures, and assessments of food security risks. However, crop mapping is currently focused on the post-harvest period, and less attention has been paid to early crop mapping. In this study, the feasibility of using Sentinel-1 (S1) and Sentinel-2 (S2) data for the earliest identifiable time (EIT) for major crops (sunflower, maize, spring wheat, and melon) was explored in the Hetao Irrigation District (HID) of China, based on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. An early crop identification strategy based on the Random Forest (RF) model for HID was proposed, and the performance of the model transfer was evaluated. First, the median synthesis, linear shift interpolation, and the Savitzky–Golay (SG) filter methods were used to reconstruct the time series of S1 and S2. Subsequently, the sensitivity of different input features, time intervals, and data integration to different early crop identifications was evaluated based on the RF model. Finally, the model with optimal parameters was evaluated in terms of its transfer capacity and used for the early mapping of crops in the HID area. The results showed that the features extracted from S2 images synthesized at 10-day intervals performed well in obtaining crop EITs. Sunflower, maize, spring wheat, and melon could be identified 90, 90, 70, and 40 days earlier than the harvest date. The identification accuracy, measured by the F1-score, could reach 0.97, 0.95, 0.98, and 0.90, respectively. The performance of the model transfer is good, with the F1-score decreasing from 0 to 0.04 and no change in EIT for different crops. It was also found that the EIT of crops obtained using S1 data alone was 50–90 days later than that obtained using S2 data alone. Additionally, when S1 and S2 were used jointly, S1 data contributed little to early crop identification. This study highlights the potential of early crop mapping using satellite data, which provides a feasible solution for the early identification of crops in the HID area and valuable information for food security assurance in the region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Digital Agriculture)
20 pages, 707 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Intercropping Narrowleaf Lupine with Cereals under Variable Mineral Nitrogen Fertilization
by Rafał Górski and Anna Płaza
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070989 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 132
Abstract
Intercropping of legumes and cereals can bring many benefits to agriculture, including an increase in yield and the quality of the crops obtained. In addition, it is possible to reduce mineral fertilization, which can have a positive impact on the environment. The aim [...] Read more.
Intercropping of legumes and cereals can bring many benefits to agriculture, including an increase in yield and the quality of the crops obtained. In addition, it is possible to reduce mineral fertilization, which can have a positive impact on the environment. The aim of the field research conducted in 2021–2023 in central Poland was to evaluate the yields obtained, the content and yield of total protein and the value of land equivalent ratio in the intercropping of narrowleaf lupine with cereals at different seeding levels of components and variable mineral nitrogen fertilization. The following factors were tested: 1—share of components in the sowing: narrowleaf lupine (NL) 120 seeds m−2; spring barley (SB) 300 seeds m−2; M1—NL 30 + SB 225 seeds m−2; M2—NL 60 + SB 150 seeds m−2; M3—NL 90 + SB 75 seeds m−2; spring triticale (ST) 450 seeds m−2; M4—NL 30 + ST 340 seeds m−2; M5—NL 60 + ST 225 seeds m−2; M6—NL 90 + ST 115 seeds m−2 ; 2—mineral fertilization with nitrogen 0, 20, 40, 60 kg N ha−1. The most favorable results were obtained with mixtures containing 60 + 150 seeds m2 of narrowleaf lupine + spring barley and 90 + 115 seeds m-2 of narrowleaf lupine + spring triticale. In addition, the favorable results and the lack of significant differences at fertilization of 40 and 60 kg N ha−1 show the possibility of a limited dose of mineral nitrogen fertilization. Sowing narrowleaf lupine with spring barley at a ratio of 60 + 150 seeds m2 or with spring triticale at a ratio of 90 + 115 seeds m-2 and fertilizing with 40 kg N ha−1 can be recommended for agricultural practice. The proposed management technique ensures high yields of good quality and thus can be an interesting solution for sustainable cultivation and be successfully implemented on farms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Cultivation and Production of Leguminous Plants)
15 pages, 763 KiB  
Article
Sowing Date and Seed Rate Influence on Septoria Leaf Blotch Occurrence in Winter Wheat
by Mohammad Almogdad, Agnė Lukošiūtė-Stasiukonienė, Roma Semaškienė and Viktorija Mačiulytė
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070988 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 123
Abstract
Septoria leaf blotch (SLB), caused by Zymoseptoria tritici, is one of the most important foliar diseases of wheat. The management of this disease is assisted by selecting a sowing time and seeding density that is less favorable to the pathogen. The aim [...] Read more.
Septoria leaf blotch (SLB), caused by Zymoseptoria tritici, is one of the most important foliar diseases of wheat. The management of this disease is assisted by selecting a sowing time and seeding density that is less favorable to the pathogen. The aim of this research was to evaluate the severity of SLB on winter wheat cv. ‘Etana’ sown at three different sowing times and three seed rates. The severity assessments were performed on the upper two leaves three times during the growth stages using the phenological growth stage key developed by the Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt, and Chemical industry (BBCH), namely stages 37–41, 59–65, and 75. The area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) was evaluated in each plot. In 2022, seed rates showed significant differences (p = 0.0047), while sowing times did not show significant differences. In contrast, both seed rate and sowing time showed significant effects in 2021 (p = 0.0004 for sowing time and p < 0.0001 for seed rate). During the 2021 growth stage BBCH 75, late sowing times exhibited a significant reduction in SLB on the first leaf. The reduction ranged from 47.0% to 52.6% compared to the optimal sowing time, and from 59.2% to 66.2% compared to the early sowing time. At optimal sowing times (between 11 September and 25 September), seed rates of 400 and 450 seeds/m2 resulted in a low SLB. At late sowing times in 2022, a lower SLB (43.2% compared to the early sowing time) was obtained from seed rates of 400 seeds/m2. No significant interaction was observed between sowing time and seed rate across both study years. In the absence of interaction, the effects of sowing time and seed rate on SLB severity were independent and not additive. In 2022, the highest values of AUDPC were recorded for the early sowing time and the highest seed rate. Increasing the seed rate (450 seeds m−2) gave higher AUDPC at early sowing time with significant differences compared to other seed rates at optimal or late sowing times. In conclusion, our findings highlight the significant influence of sowing time and seed rate on SLB severity in winter wheat. Understanding these factors can inform agricultural practices to better manage SLB. Future research should explore additional agronomic practices and environmental factors to develop comprehensive strategies for SLB management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Protection, Diseases, Pests and Weeds)
18 pages, 1028 KiB  
Review
Novel Molecular Techniques for Identifying Agricultural Microorganisms
by Janet Jan-Roblero, Juan A. Cruz-Maya and Juan C. Cancino-Diaz
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070987 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 132
Abstract
Agriculture involves activities aimed at improving soil quality for food production. In this environment, microorganisms play a vital role, positively and/or negatively affecting plant growth. Given this impact, knowing the microbiota associated with agricultural systems and phytopathogens is crucial. The microbial culture method [...] Read more.
Agriculture involves activities aimed at improving soil quality for food production. In this environment, microorganisms play a vital role, positively and/or negatively affecting plant growth. Given this impact, knowing the microbiota associated with agricultural systems and phytopathogens is crucial. The microbial culture method has proven ineffective in identifying microorganisms in agricultural systems, and more effective methods with greater scope for their identification currently exist. This review compiles updated information on new methods for studying microorganisms in the agricultural system, such as metagenomics, and new proposals for microorganism identification methods, such as Raman spectrometry, nanotechnology, and phytopathogen biosensors. In addition, it discusses the strengths and limitations of the new methods for microorganism identification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Soils)
18 pages, 1531 KiB  
Article
Characterization and Mapping of the Potential Area of Oil Palm Using Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis in a Geographic Information Systems Environment
by Kamireddy Manorama, G. P. Obi Reddy, K. Suresh, S. S. Ray, S. K. Behera, Nirmal Kumar and R. K. Mathur
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 986; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070986 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 135
Abstract
This study presents a GIS-based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) spatial model to assess land suitability for oil palm (OP) cultivation in rainfed conditions. Initially, twelve parameters, viz., rainfall, number of rainy days, mean temperature, RH, ground water level, soil pH, salinity, soil depth, [...] Read more.
This study presents a GIS-based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) spatial model to assess land suitability for oil palm (OP) cultivation in rainfed conditions. Initially, twelve parameters, viz., rainfall, number of rainy days, mean temperature, RH, ground water level, soil pH, salinity, soil depth, surface texture, stoniness, slope, and drainage, were selected for assessing OP suitability in one of the states (Kerala). However, subsequent ground verification revealed significant discrepancies, which prompted refining the model by focusing on key parameters with greater accuracy and relevance. Accordingly, only five the most critical parameters affecting OP cultivation under rainfed conditions were selected through the rank sum method, and weights were assigned ac-cording to their significance. This study was aimed at creating a comprehensive tool for informed decision making in agricultural planning. District-level spatial data from reliable sources were utilized for Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis. Thematic rasters, representing key factors influencing land suitability, were created in a GIS. Utilizing MCDA techniques, a digital suitability map was generated in ArcGIS 10.3, delineating three distinct classes over an extensive area of 10.5 million hectares. Further, with an aim to focus on actual locations that can be readily planted with oil palm, the suitable locations identified were restricted to eight selected land use/land cover (LULC) classes. This strategic limitation aimed to facilitate the expansion of OP cultivation exclusively to areas deemed most suitable based on the identified criteria. The validation of this developed model involved comparing the suitability map generated with the performance of existing oil palm plantations across diverse locations. The reasonable similarity between the model’s predictions and real-world plantation outcomes validated the effectiveness of this MCDA spatial model. This model not only helps identify suitable locations for rainfed oil palm cultivation but also serves as a valuable tool for strategic decision making in agricultural land use planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Digital Agriculture)
1 pages, 134 KiB  
Correction
Correction: Ahmed et al. Heterosis Studies for Root-Yield-Attributing Characters and Total Alkaloid Content over Different Environments in Withania somnifera L. Agriculture 2023, 13, 1025
by Iqbal Ahmed, Rajendra Babu Dubey, Devendra Jain, Mohamed A. El-Sheikh and Prashant Kaushik
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070985 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 90
Abstract
The Agriculture Editorial Office wishes to make the following changes to the author’s paper [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Genetics, Genomics and Breeding)
14 pages, 505 KiB  
Article
Variation in Grain Yield Losses Due to Fall Armyworm Infestation among Elite Open-Pollinated Maize Varieties under Different Levels of Insecticide Application
by James J. Kenyi, Wende Mengesha, Ayodeji Abe, Abebe Menkir and Silvestro Meseka
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14070984 - 24 Jun 2024
Viewed by 466
Abstract
Maize is an important food and industrial cereal crop that serves as the main source of energy for millions of low-income people in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), but its production and productivity are constrained by many constraints, among which the fall armyworm (FAW) is [...] Read more.
Maize is an important food and industrial cereal crop that serves as the main source of energy for millions of low-income people in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), but its production and productivity are constrained by many constraints, among which the fall armyworm (FAW) is the major one. The use of insecticides is the most effective control measure for the FAW. However, excessive use of chemical insecticides has environmental and health implications, and it can be expensive for resource-poor farmers. The objective of this study was to evaluate the extent of variation in yield losses due to the FAW among some elite maize open-pollinated varieties (OPVs) under two levels of insecticide application and control (0 application). In a two-year field study, 10 elite maize OPVs were evaluated under two levels of emamectin benzoate (5% WDG) applications and the control: 75 and 150 mL of spray solution per 20 L of water. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with three replications. The data were collected on grain yield (GY) and FAW leaf damage rating (LDR). The LDR was conducted on a 1–9 scale and used to categorize the maize varieties as resistant (1–4), moderately resistant (4–6), and susceptible (6–9). Significant varietal differences were obtained for GY and LDRs. The GY of the varieties under control (0 mL), 75 and 150 mL insecticide applications ranged from 3.3 t ha−1 (DTSTR-Y SYN-13) to 4.6 t ha−1 (PVA SYN-3), from 4.5 t ha−1 (DTSTR-Y SYN-13) to 6.4 t ha−1 (PVA SYN-13), and from 4.2 t ha−1 (DTSTR-Y SYN-13) to 6 t ha−1 (DTSTR-Y SYN-14), respectively. No significant differences in GY were found between the application of 75 and 150 mL of insecticide application. The relative loss in GY among the varieties under control (0 mL) differed with an increase in the level of insecticide application. The relative GY loss at the 75 mL insecticide application ranged from 18% (PVA SYN-3) to 38% (DTSTR-Y SYN-15) with a mean of 27%, whereas at the 150 mL insecticide application, it varied from 13% (PVA SYN-3) to 42% (DTSTR-Y SYN-15), with a mean of 26%. All the varieties exhibited moderate resistance to FAW, except DTSTR-Y SYN-14, which was susceptible. The varieties PVA SYN-3 and PVA SYN-13 were the most consistent in GY across the three insecticide treatment levels. The mean performance of the varieties for FAW leaf damage ranged from 4.0 (SAMMAZ-15) to 6.2 (DTSTR-Y SYN-14), from 4.5 (SAMMAZ-15) to 6.3 (PVA SYN-6), from 4.5 (SAMMAZ-15) to 6.3 (DTSTR-Y SYN-14), and from 3.5 (SAMMAZ-15) to 5 (DTSTR-Y SYN-14) for LDR 1, LDR 2, LDR 3, and LDR 4, respectively. The use of moderately resistant varieties, combined with timely spraying of emamectin benzoate at 75 mL provided adequate management for the FAW infestation and sustained high maize grain yield. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Strategy of Improving the Small Grain Production System)
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