Search Results (36)

The water-soluble extract from vermicompost, also known as vermicompost tea (VT), has attracted interest in sustainable production research due to its potential to increase crop yields. However, information regarding the influence of this bioinput on strawberry cultivation remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different VT solution concentrations on the mass fruit, physiology, and fruit quality of the hybrid strawberry cultivar ‘Portola’. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, with foliar and substrate applications of VT solutions at varying concentrations (0%, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8%) over 150 days. Evaluations included the chemical composition of the VT, as well as the physiological and agronomic parameters of the strawberry plants, such as gas exchange, biometric data, the physicochemical quality of the fruit and the nutritional composition. Significant differences in gas exchange parameters, particularly intercellular CO₂ concentration and stomatal conductance, were observed at the final growth stage. Of the quality and compositional parameters of the strawberries, only the soluble solids/titratable acidity (SS/TA) ratio was affected. The various VT dilutions induced physiological alterations in the strawberry plants, with energy being allocated towards mass fruit at the expense of fruit quality, specifically in terms of the SS/TA ratio. Full article

This study examines the agroecology and bioculturality of Oxalis tuberosa Molina, in the Montúfar canton, Carchi province, Ecuador, an area where this Andean tuber is cultivated at altitudes above 3000 m and in soils with a pH between 5.3 and 7.8. The research was conducted in the Producampo Producers Association, composed of 33 active members, of which 87.5% are women, with an average age of 51.25 years. Oxalis tuberosa constitutes an important crop in their integrated agroecological production systems (IAPSs): the production of bio-inputs in SIPA systems is predominantly self-sufficient, with 75% of producers using exclusively their own organic fertilizers, mainly compost and vermicompost, and showing low dependence on external inputs, whether organic (12.5%) or chemical (25%); the latter are applied in small doses of about 5 kg every six months in secondary crops. The research adopted a mixed methodological approach, integrating semi-structured interviews for qualitative analysis using Atlas.ti and descriptive statistical analysis with specialized software. Of the total Oxalis tuberosa production, 80% is intended for personal consumption and 20% is sold at local markets. Cultivated ecotypes include “blanca” (70%) and “chaucha” (30%), both of which are resistant to pests but susceptible to frost. Families dedicate between 32 and 80 h per week to production, with an average of 56 h. The findings highlight the potential of Oxalis tuberosa to improve the food resilience of Andean communities and suggest that revaluing this crop and its traditional practices can improve agricultural sustainability in the region. Full article

Different techniques that require specific conditions are used to increase long-term stability and facilitate the transportation of products. Solid microbial formulation gained significant attention in the scientific world for several applications due to its benefits, mainly for agriculture. The extensive applications in the agricultural area, especially in the protection as a biopesticide and in the nutrition as a biofertilizer, have expanded knowledge on the production of solid bioproducts to keep up with developments in the community. Recent scientific works have disclosed different techniques, increased yields, and optimized parameters and other related procedures to produce solid microbial formulations with quality. However, the optimal protocol for solid microbial preparations differs between species and strains. The mechanisms underlying the protection and damage during drying methods and storage are, unfortunately, not clearly understood. Therefore, the current review highlights the state of the art of freeze and spray drying, both physical methods that are applied in microorganism formulations. Additionally, the study highlights the stresses these systems are exposed to during the drying process, as well as the strategies employed to ensure their stability throughout processing and storage. In summary, the information in this review provides a theoretical basis for the selection of these relevant technologies, according to the requirements demanded to obtain a sustainable bioinput. Full article

Aims: Soil compaction is one of the main challenges in agriculture, negatively affecting cotton growth (Gossypium hirsutum L.), nutrition, and productivity. This study evaluated the efficacy of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), Exiguobacterium sibiricum, and Pantoea vagans in mitigating the effects of different soil compaction levels (65%, 75%, 85%, and 95%) on cotton performance. Methods: Parameters such as plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, shoot dry matter (SDM), and nutrient content in leaves, stems, and roots were assessed. The methodology included variance analysis and mean clustering to identify significant differences among treatments using R software. Results: The results indicated that PGPB inoculation improved plant growth and nutrition even under high compaction levels. Cotton height increased by up to 45% in compacted soils (95%), while stem diameter and SDM also showed significant gains. Foliar nutrient levels of N (37.2 g kg⁻¹), Ca, and Mg remained within the adequate range for cotton cultivation, reflecting the efficiency of PGPB in enhancing nutrient absorption. Under severe compaction, Ca accumulation dropped to 18.2 g kg⁻¹, highlighting the physical constraints imposed on the roots; however, the bacterial action mitigated this impact. Additionally, bacterial strains increased the availability of N and P in the soil due to their ability to fix nitrogen, solubilize phosphates, and produce exopolysaccharides that improve soil structure. Conclusions: In conclusion, inoculation with Exiguobacterium sibiricum and Pantoea vagans is an effective strategy to mitigate the impacts of soil compaction on cotton. These bacteria promote plant growth and nutrition and enhance the soil’s physical and biological properties. Full article

The agricultural sector faces serious challenges due to climate change, threatening global food security. In addition to economic impacts, decreasing agricultural production jeopardizes nutrition, particularly in vulnerable populations. The implementation of mitigation actions and sustainable alternatives becomes urgent. In this context, microbial secondary metabolites (MSMs) emerge as a promising solution. Some of these molecules have the potential to strengthen soil health, increase plant resistance to pests and adverse weather conditions, and improve nutrient availability, for example, LCOs (lipochitooligosaccharides) to improve legume nodulation and several other physiological changes in the plant, and several pyrazines with biocontrol potential. However, although the potential benefits are clear, the industrial viability of commercially using these compounds has not yet been fully established. In addition, the connection of the academic research on MSMs with their potential role in agriculture as bio-inputs is still limited. This review aims to contribute to filling the gaps by aggregating information on the classification, application, and synthesis of these molecules. Additionally, we discuss strategies and technologies that could enhance the use of MSMs in agriculture. Full article

Field mapping is one of the most important aspects of precision agriculture, and community drones will be able to empower young rural entrepreneurs who will be the generational replacement of a new agrosocial paradigm. This research presents an agroecological participatory innovation methodology that utilizes precision technology through geographic information systems and unmanned aerial vehicles to evaluate the integrated ecological management of weeds for glyphosate substitution in a transitional area of Citrus sinensis in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Modeling methods and spatial analyses supported by intelligent georeference protocols were used to determine the number of weeds with tolerance and glyphosate resistance. Four control flights were conducted to monitor seven treatments. Glyphosate-resistant weeds were represented with the highest number of individuals and frequency in all experimental treatments. Although the treatment with maize stubble showed a slightly better result than the use of Mucuna pruriens mulch, which prevents the emergence of glyphosate resistant weeds before emergence, the second treatment is considered better in terms of the cost–benefit ratio, not only because of significantly lower cost but also because of the additional benefits it offers. Geospatial technologies will determine the nature of citrus and fruit tree agroecological treatments and highlight areas of the plot with binomial soil and plant nutrient deficiencies and pest and disease infestations, which will improve the timely application of bio-inputs through the development of accurate maps of agroecological transitions. Full article

Mauritia flexuosa L.f. oil has high added value due to its antioxidant activity. This study evaluated the quality of 50 samples from eight regions of Pará, using analytical and chemometric methods. Total carotenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamin C, acidity, peroxide, saponification, and fatty acid indices were analyzed. Samples with higher residual load were identified by the Mahalanobis distance. Principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted total carotenoids as the most relevant parameter, identifying three groups with different levels of biological activity (low, medium, and high) and significant cumulative variance. ANOVA did not indicate significant differences between groups regarding fatty acids, but oleic acid was predominant in five regions. Nine samples are suitable for the food sector, while the others can be directed to different applications. The maximum concentrations of carotenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, and vitamin C were 1899 μg/g, 161.69 GAE/100 g, 125.02 mg EC/100 g, and 24.17 mg/100 g, respectively. This study demonstrated the usefulness of chemometric tools in the quality control of this bioinput, facing the local bioeconomy. Full article

Large amounts of chemical fertilizers are still used to suppress pathogens and boost agricultural productivity and food generation. However, their use can cause harmful environmental imbalance. Furthermore, plants typically absorb limited amounts of the nutrients provided by chemical fertilizers. Recent studies are recommending the use of microbiota present in the soil in different formulations, considering that several microorganisms are found in nature in association with plants in a symbiotic, antagonistic, or synergistic way. This ecological alternative is positive because no undesirable significant alterations occur in the environment while stimulating plant nutrition development and protection against damage caused by control pathogens. Therefore, this review presents a comprehensive discussion regarding endophytic and rhizospheric microorganisms and their interaction with plants, including signaling and bio-control processes concerning the plant’s defense against pathogenic spread. A discussion is provided about the importance of these bioinputs as a microbial resource that promotes plant development and their sustainable protection methods aiming to increase resilience in the agricultural system. In modern agriculture, the manipulation of bioinputs through Rhizobium contributes to reducing the effects of greenhouse gases by managing nitrogen runoff and decreasing nitrous oxide. Additionally, mycorrhizal fungi extend their root systems, providing plants with greater access to water and nutrients. Full article

By-products of fruit processing may contain bioactive compounds with potential application as bioinputs. This study optimized the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of phenolic compounds from the by-products of Eugenia dysenterica DC (Myrtaceae) fruit to obtain bioinputs with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibiofilm activities. The fruit by-products (seeds and peels) were subjected to UAE optimization using the Box–Behnken design and response surface methodology. Two optimal conditions were defined: 1-plant material/solvent ratio of 0.01 g/mL, time of 40 min, and ethanol content of 30%; 2–0.19 g/mL, 39 min, and 46%. The bioinputs (liquid extract—LQE; lyophilized extract—LYE), obtained under the optimal conditions, were tested for antioxidant activity (ABTS, FRAP, and DPPH). LQE: 1633.13 µM Trolox/g, 1633.60 µM FeSO₄/g and 73.35 g sample/g DPPH; LYE: 1379.75 µM Trolox/g, 1692.09 µM FeSO₄/g and 83.35 g sample/g DPPH. For antimicrobial activity, both extracts presented MBC < 62.5 mg/mL and MIC and MBC of 2.5 mg/mL for P. aeruginosa. LQE presented antibiofilm action for S. coagulase (50 mg/mL) and Streptococcus spp. (12.5 mg/mL); LYE for P. aeruginosa (50 mg/mL; 12.5 mg/mL), E. coli (25 mg/mL). The bioinputs obtained by UAE under optimized conditions for phenolic compounds present antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibiofilm activities. Full article

This study investigates the molecular mechanisms by which Hariman mitigates damage and productivity losses caused by Cucumber Aphid-Borne Mosaic Virus (CABMV) in the passion fruit genotypes ‘FB300’ and ‘H09-110/111’ under greenhouse and field conditions in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Hariman treatment induced the upregulation of key defense genes and phytohormones in response to CABMV infection, enabling treated plants to counteract virus-induced developmental impairments effectively. The relative accumulation of CABMV and disease severity were significantly reduced, with treated plants showing no decline in growth parameters such as height, leaf count, flower production, or fruit set. Over 18 months, total productivity increased by 65.7% and 114% for ‘FB300’ and by 44% and 80% for ‘H09-110/111’ after one and two applications of Hariman, respectively. Notably, infected plants treated with Hariman outperformed healthy plants grown under similar conditions, underscoring the biofertilizer’s dual role in promoting plant growth while enhancing resistance to biotic stressors. These findings indicate that Hariman stimulates robust growth and induces the expression of the defense-related genes PR-3, SOD, POD12, PAL, and LOX2 alongside the expression of the phytohormone-associated genes SAUR20 and GA2ox across different passion fruit genotypes. The adoption of these sustainable technologies holds significant potential for enhancing passion fruit productivity in the face of diseases that severely threaten this crop. Full article

The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a global staple, but to guarantee its provision, the crop water supply must be adequate, and bioinput application can benefit plants under drought. The objective was to evaluate the common bean’s response to bioinput application when it was cropped in soils with different water holding capacities submitted to a drought period. The greenhouse experiment used sandy loam and clayey soils. Seeds were sown, and 10 days after emergence (DAE), the treatments were applied: (i) no bioinput application or (ii) bioinput application (Priestia aryabhattai, re-applied at 46 DAE). The first plant growth evaluation was performed at 40 DAE. The irrigation maintained the crops’ needs until the beginning of flowering for all the treatments, when the irrigation was differentiated (for 10 days): (i) maintenance of irrigation or (ii) a drought period. A biochemical analysis was performed of superoxide dismutase activity [SOD], hydrogen peroxide [H₂O₂], peroxidase activity [POD], and malonaldehyde [MDA] production at 52 DAE. At 57 DAE, the second plant growth evaluation was performed, and the irrigation differentiation ended. Grain harvest followed physiological maturation. Priestia aryabhattai mitigated the drought stress in the common bean cropped in sandy soil by reducing the SOD, H₂O₂, and MDA production in comparison to no bioinput application. When it was cultivated in the clayey soil, the water availability was maintained for longer, reducing the plant’s dependency on bacteria for stress mitigation. Full article

Regenerative agriculture and the use of bioinputs have been gaining prominence in the global agribusiness sector, driven by the growing demand for healthier foods produced with minimal impact on ecosystems. In this context, compost and its derivatives (compost extracts and teas) are used to provide effective microorganisms to crops, although production processes affect the efficiency of compost extracts, as well as the soil microbiota. Thus, the hypothesis raised was that the organic matter source used for compost formation affects the agronomic efficiency of compost extracts. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of compost extracts based on litterfall of angiosperm (AC) and gymnosperm (GC) species, and the use of inoculation with the nitrogen-fixing bacteria Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Azospirillum brasilense (Bra+Azo), on soil quality, crop growth, grain yield, and disease control in soybean (Glycine max L.) crops. Using AC and GC resulted in varying effects on soybean growth and soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC), confirming the hypothesis that the organic matter source affects the agronomic efficiency of compost extracts. Plants inoculated with Bra+Azo exhibited higher chlorophyll contents, resulting in a higher photochemical yield than for those treated with compost extracts (AC and GC). However, plants inoculated with AC and GC exhibited high plasticity in mitigating photochemical stress, reaching similar photosynthetic and transpiration rates to those observed in plants inoculated with Bra+Azo. Additionally, inoculation with Bra+Azo, overall, improved the photosynthetic efficiency of soybean plants, and the compost extracts (AC and GC) were more effective than the inoculation with Bra+Azo in increasing soybean 1000-grain weight, probably due to improvements in root development. The growth promotion observed with AC and GC is likely attributed to increases in SMBC by these compounds, denoting improvements in soil quality and biocontrol of damage caused by insect attacks. Full article

Bioinputs are natural products applied to crops that contribute to more sustainable agriculture by boosting yields and reducing environmental impacts. In Brazil, the use of bioinputs such as Bradyrhizobium in soybean has been consolidated, but the expansion of on-farm bioinput production is currently initiating a new revolution. Furthermore, applications of bioinputs to cash crops in Brazil have shed light on the great potential of such growth-promoting microorganisms (GMPs) to improve nutrient uptake and increase productivity. This study explores the effect of the complementary inoculation with growth-promoting bacteria of post-emergence soybean, previously inoculated with Bradyrhizobium spp. Five treatments with growth-promoting bacteria were evaluated: T1—Control (no inoculation); T2—Azospirillum brasilense; T3—Pseudomonas fluorescens and Azospirillum brasilense; T4—Priestia aryabhattai, Bacillus haynesii, and Bacillus circulans; and T5—Priestia megaterium and Bacillus subtilis. In comparison with the control, all treatments with growth-promoting bacteria of the genera Azospirillum, Pseudomonas, Priestia, and Bacillus, applied after soybean emergence, induced 4–7% higher grain yields. Co-inoculation with Priestia megaterium and Bacillus subtilis (treatment T5) resulted in a higher 1000-grain weight, while Priestia aryabhattai, Bacillus haynesii, and Bacillus circulans (treatment T4) increased the number of pods and shoot dry weight. Our conclusion is that bioinputs increase soybean productivity and make agriculture more sustainable and efficient. Full article

Background: Bioactivity assessments of plant-derived products can benefit human and animal health, especially in regions with vast plant diversity. This study focused on chemical and cardiovascular analyses of Erythroxylum campestre A. St. Hil. leaf extracts. Methods: High-performance liquid chromatography, liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy were used to elucidate the structures of the flavonoids in E. campestre. The E. campestre methanolic fraction (ECM-ppt-M; at doses of 1, 2, 3, and 6 mg∙kg⁻¹ or vehicle) was administered intravenously to normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), and we recorded the mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), renal vascular resistance (RVR), and aortic vascular resistance (AVC). Results: The ECM-ppt-M extract demonstrated significant antihypertensive activity, as evidenced by reductions in MAP, RVR, and AVR, with effects that were particularly pronounced in SHRs. Following the establishment of these cardiovascular effects, phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of glycosylated flavonoids, which are likely contributors to the observed antihypertensive properties of the extract. Conclusions: The notable reductions in MAP and vascular resistance observed with ECM-ppt-M treatment suggest its antihypertensive effect. These findings demonstrate the potential therapeutic value of this extract with regard to the treatment of hypertension. Future studies on ECM may provide a promising therapeutic alternative capable of reducing the risk of toxicity and adverse effects associated with synthetic drugs. Full article

This study investigates the specific challenges and opportunities faced by organic farmers in Tamil Nadu, focusing on how region-specific practices influence the adoption and success of organic farming. It draws insights from a survey of 300 organic growers across five districts: Coimbatore, Dindigul, Erode, Tirupur, and Villupuram. This study is particularly relevant because there is a lack of comprehensive research on the specific challenges and opportunities faced by organic farmers in Tamil Nadu, with limited data on the long-term impact of government initiatives and region-specific management options, especially for smallholder farmers. Additionally, gaps exist in understanding the economic viability, market demand, and farmer perceptions of organic farming together with challenges like knowledge gaps, pest control, managing risks, and lower initial yields during the transition from conventional farming to organic farming. The research evaluated the factors affecting organic farming, including crop yield, the use of different organic formulations, the role of different information services, opportunities and challenges, and the impact on the perceived effectiveness of various agricultural outcomes. Various statistical analyses were performed, including K-means clustering, Poisson regression, and chi-square test. The results revealed significant variations in the adoption of various organic inputs and regionally practiced organic formulations. Crop residues (82.67%), Jeevamrith (78.33%), Amudhakaraisal (77.00%), and 3G-Extracts (74.00%) have high adoption rates, reflecting their perceived effectiveness and accessibility among farmers. However, the adoption of microbial bio-inputs such as Trichoderma viride (1.00%), Acetobacter spp. (19.00%), Azophos (consortium of phosphorus fixing microbes) (26.33%), and Azospirillum spp. (28.67%) was notably poor despite their known benefits for soil health and crop yield. The chi-square test also highlighted key challenges faced by farmers in adopting organic farming practices. The Poisson regression analysis showed significant positive impacts on crop growth and yield, disease resistance, insect control, overall plant health, and input efficiency due to organic farming. The study’s insights are essential for developing targeted strategies to overcome barriers, supporting the growth and sustainability of organic farming. Addressing these challenges and promoting effective information channels will better equip stakeholders to support organic growers, contributing to more resilient and productive agricultural systems in the region. Full article