Abstract Introduction. Seedlings formation under controlled conditions is crucial for cultivating species like strawberry. With LED artificial lighting technology allowing greater control over light, variations in components such as wavelength and intensity can be manipulated to generate seedlings with different characteristics. However, there is a need to generate information for the development of precise and efficient light control practices. Objective. The evaluate strawberry seedling formation under different intensities of violet, blue, and red LED light. Material and methods. The study was conducted in 2020 at the Plant Genetics Laboratory of the Department of Agronomy at the Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico. Seeds from San Andreas variety fruits were collected, and seedlings were grown under violet, blue, and red LED light at high, medium, and low intensities. Color determinations of cotyledon area, Chroma saturation index, and Hue angle were performed. Additionally, physio-technical, chemical, and antioxidant activity variables were measured. Results. The most suitable treatments were high and medium intensity violet light, as well as high intensity blue light, with germination range exceeding 60 %. Seedlings did not elongate or thin out and exhibited the largest cotyledons areas and chlorophyll concentrations. Furthermore, these light treatments consumed, on average, 31.2 % less electrical energy. Conclusions. In addition to white light, the most suitable treatments for strawberry seedlings formation were high and medium intensity violet light, as well as high intensity blue light. It is suggested to evaluate violet and blue light treatments in other cultivars to confirm their positive effect on strawberry seedlings. Red light limited germination and showing higher antioxidant activity.

Resumen Introducción. La formación de plántulas en condiciones controladas es fundamental para cultivar especies como la fresa. Dado que la tecnología de iluminación artificial LED ha permitido un mayor control de la luz, la variación de componentes como la longitud de onda y la intensidad pueden ser manipulados para generar plántulas con diferentes características. Sin embargo, es necesario generar información para el desarrollo de prácticas precisas y eficientes en el control de la luz. Objetivo. Evaluar la formación de plántulas de fresa en diferentes intensidades de luz LED violeta, azul y roja. Materiales y métodos. El estudio se realizó durante 2020 en el Laboratorio de Genética Vegetal del Departamento de Agronomía de la Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, México. Se recuperaron semillas de frutos de la variedad San Andreas y se sembraron plántulas en luz LED violeta, azul y roja a intensidades alta, media y baja. Se realizaron determinaciones de color del área del cotiledón, índice de saturación de color y ángulo Hue. Además, se midieron variables fisiotécnicas, químicas y actividad antioxidante. Resultados. Los tratamientos más adecuados fueron luz violeta de intensidades altas y medias; así como luz azul de alta intensidad, debido a que el porcentaje de germinación superó el 60 %. Las plántulas no se alargaron ni adelgazaron, presentaron las mayores áreas de cotiledones y concentraciones de clorofila. Además, estos tratamientos de luz consumieron en promedio 31,2 % menos energía eléctrica. Conclusiones. Además de la luz blanca, los tratamientos más adecuados para la formación de plántulas de fresa fueron la luz violeta a alta y media intensidad, así como la luz azul a alta intensidad. Se sugiere evaluar los tratamientos de luz violeta y azul en otros cultivares para confirmar el efecto positivo en las plántulas de fresa. La luz roja limitó la germinación y mostró mayor actividad antioxidante.

Verlorenvlei is a globally important RAMSAR wetland on the arid west coast of South Africa. A prolonged drought between 2016 and 2021 and increasing competition for water from the agricultural sector resulted in extremely low water levels. We used historical aerial and satellite imagery from 1942 and rainfall and water level data for the past 50 years, to assess habitat changes within the estuarine functional zone of the Verlorenvlei Estuarine Lake. Prior to the drought, lake water levels and water surface area remained stable (1113 ± 27 ha (SE)). Since then, there has been a 64% decrease in open water area, exposing 193 ha of sandbanks, of which 190.9 ha were hyper-sulfidic pyrite-rich. The water in the lower lake was hypersaline (>100), and in the middle, it was acidic (pH<3). The low water level plus sediment and nutrient input from surrounding agriculture resulted in a localised increase in reeds. Additional pressures, such as fires, have reduced the above-ground biomass of reeds and sedges, potentially altering surface morphology and reducing stored carbon. Despite flooding and filling up in June 2023, the lake remained in an acidic state (3.9-4.3). Similar low-lake level, hypersaline and acidic conditions are predicted to become more common under future climate change scenarios where aridity and extreme weather events are anticipated. Inflow of fresh water into the estuary and control of farming practices are required to keep the Verlorenvlei in a functional state, with long-term monitoring necessary to assess the ecological condition in response to restoration actions. SIGNIFICANCE: We assessed the habitat changes in Verlorenvlei, an estuarine lake on the arid west coast of South Africa. Estuarine lakes are scarce, and an extended drought greatly reduced the water surface area, exposing hyper-sulfidic pyrite-rich soils, leading to lake acidification and a negative response from biota. Competition for water from agribusiness and the burning of reeds are added pressures. Subsequent heavy rains have been slow to buffer lake acidity, and the impacts thereof serve as a warning for the management of similar ecosystems and their ecological water requirements, especially under climate change where extreme weather conditions, increased aridity and competition for water are realities.

RESUMEN Trichoderma, un género de hongos filamentosos es ampliamente utilizado en la agricultura debido a sus propiedades y usos diversos, destacando su habilidad para funcionar como un agente biocontrolador contra diversos fitopatógenos. El éxito de Trichoderma se basa en múltiples mecanismos de acción, que incluyen antibiosis, micoparasitismo, competencia por espacio y nutrientes, producción de enzimas y metabolitos secundarios con actividad antimicrobiana y la estimulación de la respuesta de defensa de las plantas ante los patógenos. Esta mini revisión se centra en los mecanismos de acción de Trichoderma como biocontrolador y sus potencialidades para el uso en la agricultura. Este género de hongos filamentosos con capacidad para inhibir el crecimiento de patógenos, estimular el crecimiento de las plantas y mejorar la calidad del suelo lo convierten en un recurso valioso para los agricultores. El conocimiento de estos mecanismos puede ayudar a mejorar aún más su uso en la agricultura y promover prácticas agrícolas sostenibles.

ABSTRACT Trichoderma, a genus of filamentous fungi, is widely used in agriculture due to its various properties and uses, particularly its ability to function as a biocontrol agent against various phytopathogens. The success of Trichoderma is based on multiple mechanisms of action, including antibiosis, mycoparasitism, competition for space and nutrients, production of enzymes and secondary metabolites with antimicrobial activity, and stimulation of the plant defense response against pathogens. This mini review focuses on the mechanisms of action of Trichoderma as a biocontrol agent and its potential for use in agriculture. Its ability to inhibit the growth of pathogens, stimulate plant growth, and improve soil quality makes it a valuable resource for farmers. Understanding these mechanisms can further improve its use in agriculture and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

ABSTRACT Finding sustainable methods for utilizing biosolids, also known as municipal sewage sludge (SS), presents a pressing challenge in modern waste management practices. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of SS amendment on growth, biochemical, proximate, and heavy metal bioaccumulation parameters of berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) fodder crop under field conditions. Trifolium alexandrinum was cultivated using different rates of SS mixing (i.e., T0: 0% as control with no SS application, T1: 5%, and T2: 10%). The results obtained showed a significant (p < 0.05) increment in growth, biochemical, and proximate parameters of T. alexandrinum with an increasing SS mixing rate. The highest productivity of T. alexandrinum fodder (1.92 kg m-2 fw) was observed in the T2 treatment as compared to the control treatment. The heavy metal analysis of shoot and root parts of T. alexandrinum showed that the contents (mg kg-1) of eight elements (Cd 0.02-0.13, Co 0.04-0.08, Cu 5.94-0.05, Cr 0.43-1.68, Fe 7.08-15.93, Ni 0.89-2.90, Mn 1.62-5.38, and Zn 3.30-7.04) increased significantly (p < 0.05) with SS mixing rate. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) was below 1 except for Cu and Zn exhibiting their rapid uptake by plants from SS-treated soils. However, dietary intake modeling (DIM < 1) and health risk index (HRI < 1) studies showed that the levels of heavy metals did not exceed the permissible limits in any SS treatment. Overall, SS amendment has a positive impact on the growth, biochemical, proximate, and heavy metal characteristics of T. alexandrinum. Therefore, this study suggested a strategy for low-cost soil fertilization and fodder crop production which could sustainably benefit waste recycling.

Abstract Background: Agroforestry systems integrate agricultural, forestry and cultural diversity and have been little studied in coastal regions of Mexico. The SA managed by mixtecs and afro-mexicans are unknown. Questions: Which agroforestry systems are found in Mixtec and Afro-Mexican communities? Which are the forms of management, agricultural and agroforestry practices and useful species in agroforestry systems? Studied species: Various. Study site and dates: Santa María Chicometepec, Cerro de la Esperanza, Collantes, Santa Elena Comaltepec, San Agustín Chayuco, Santiago Tetepec, Oaxaca. October 2021 to October 2022. Methods: Sixty semi-structured interviews were conducted with local specialists in three Mixtec and three Afro-Mexican communities. Questions were asked about traditional agroforestry systems, agricultural, agroforestry and management practices, and useful species. Tours and collections of herbarium specimens were carried out. Each system was described, management and agroforestry practices were categorized; and the number of useful species by category of use and cultural group was recorded. Results: Six agroforestry systems were recorded and described: milpa, pastures, plots, acahuales; piñal and coconut. Agricultural practices in Mixtec communities are carried out with basic tools and inputs and the production is for self-consumption and local sale, while in Afro-Mexican communities they are technical, and their destination is regional sale. The most common agroforestry practices were the boundaries and isolated trees. Conclusions: The cultural groups share agroforestry systems, forms of management, and number of useful species is similar, but they differ in agricultural practices. In the agroforestry systems, edible and timber species (firewood, poles, fences, construction) are mainly conserved.

Resumen Antecedentes: Los sistemas agrosilvícolas (SA) integran diversidad agrícola, forestal y cultural. En regiones costeras de México han sido poco estudiados, particularmente los manejados por mixtecos y afromexicanos de la costa de Oaxaca. Preguntas: ¿Qué SA se encuentran en comunidades mixtecas y afromexicanas?, ¿Cuáles son las especies útiles, formas de manejo, prácticas agrícolas y agroforestales de los SA? Especies de estudio: Diversas. Sitio y años de estudio: Santa María Chicometepec, Cerro de la Esperanza, Collantes, Santa Elena Comaltepec, San Agustín Chayuco, Santiago Tetepec, Oaxaca. Octubre 2021 a octubre 2022. Métodos: Se realizaron 60 entrevistas semiestructuradas a especialistas locales en tres comunidades mixtecas y tres afromexicanas. Se preguntó acerca de especies útiles, sistemas agrosilvícolas, prácticas agrícolas, agroforestales y de manejo. Se realizaron recorridos y colectas de ejemplares de herbario. Se describió cada sistema por sus prácticas agroforestales y de manejo. Se registró el número de especies útiles por categoría de uso y grupo cultural. Resultados: Se documentaron y describieron seis SA: milpa, potreros, solares, acahuales, piñal y cocotal. Las prácticas agrícolas en comunidades mixtecas se realizan con herramientas e insumos básicos y la producción tiene un fin de autoconsumo y venta local, mientras que en comunidades afromexicanas son tecnificadas y su destino es la venta regional. Linderos y árboles aislados fueron las prácticas agroforestales más comunes. Conclusiones: Mixtecos y Afromexicanos comparten SA, formas de manejo y prácticas agroforestales, difieren en las prácticas agrícolas. En los SA se conservan principalmente especies comestibles y maderables. El número de especies útiles es similar en comunidades mixtecas y afromexicanas.

Abstract The objective of this work was to analyze the relationship between perceptions and agricultural practices in the face of the effects of climate change from the agro-socio-economic context and the hydrological structure in the Cochapata high-altitude ecosystem in Urcuquí-Ecuador. The methodological strategy responds to the qualitative paradigm, case study method. Primary information was collected through landscape reading, interviews, and participant observation. It was found that the territory is occupied by timber industries, whose tree species are characterized by excessive water demand. The sub-paramo is inhabited by peasants in survival conditions who use the land to obtain goods for family sustenance using their labor force. Water distribution is of a hydro-social nature, as it excludes peasants from the right to irrigation and watering. Regarding the effects of the changing climate, the inhabitants perceive heat waves and variations in the rainy season in their daily lives; however, no agricultural practices were found to adapt to the climatic phenomenon. It is concluded that the vulnerability of the ecosystem is not directly related to climate change; it responds to historical failures in the distribution of ecosystem goods such as land and water, to the lack of knowledge of the peasant subject on the part of the state and society, and the excessive extractivism implemented during the last decades.

Resumen El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la relación entre percepciones y prácticas agrícolas frente a los efectos del cambio climático desde el contexto agro-socio-económico y la estructura hidrológica en el ecosistema de altura Cochapata en Urcuquí-Ecuador. La estrategia metodológica responde al paradigma cualitativo, método de estudio de caso. Se levantó información primaria mediante lectura del paisaje, entrevistas y observación participante. Se encontró que el territorio está ocupado por industrias madereras cuyas especies arbóreas se caracterizan por excesiva demanda hídrica. El subpáramo está habitado por campesinos en condición de sobrevivencia que usan la tierra para obtener bienes de sustento familiar, valiéndose de su fuerza de trabajo. Se evidenció que la distribución del agua es de carácter hidrosocial, pues excluye al campesinado del derecho a riego y abrevadero. Respecto a los efectos del clima cambiante, los pobladores perciben en su cotidianidad olas de calor y variaciones en las temporadas de lluvias, sin embargo, no se encontraron prácticas agrícolas con intención adaptativa al fenómeno climático. Se concluye que la vulnerabilidad del ecosistema no guarda relación directa con el cambio climático, esta responde a las fallas históricas en la distribución de los bienes ecosistémicos tierra y agua, al desconocimiento del sujeto campesino por parte del Estado y de la sociedad, y al excesivo extractivismo implantado durante las últimas décadas.

Abstract During the neoliberal regime, food policy in Mexico focused on the paradigm of ensuring physical and economic access to safe and cheap food; However, the measures to meet this objective caused, among other things, a trade deficit in basic foods such as corn, orientation of production towards export crops, environmental and people’s health deterioration. In response to this problem, in the mid-1990s, the concept of food sovereignty gained strength. This paradigm contributed to making visible the problems faced by small family productive units and the importance of including in public policy actions that respect the diversity of cultivated seeds, traditional agricultural practices, the care of resources and the reproduction of culturally accepted foods. In this context, the objective of this work is to characterize corn production in three lake regions of Michoacán (Mexico) from the perspective of food sovereignty and, based on this, raise considerations for its strengthening. A comparative analysis was carried out on the approaches of the food sovereignty paradigm based on own information obtained through a survey applied to corn producers from three lake regions of the state of Michoacán. The results show the coexistence of diverse production systems ranging from traditional to intensive production in each region, with manifest experiences of food sovereignty in the Pátzcuaro region and silent in the Cuitzeo region.

Resumen Durante el régimen neoliberal, la política alimentaria en México se centró en el paradigma de asegurar el acceso físico y económico a alimentos inocuos y baratos; sin embargo, las medidas para atender este objetivo provocaron, entre otras consecuencias, un creciente déficit en la balanza comercial de alimentos básicos como el maíz, la orientación de la producción hacia cultivos de exportación, y el paulatino deterioro de la calidad ambiental y de la salud de las personas. Frente a esta compleja problemática, a mediados de la década de los años noventa, surge con fuerza el paradigma de soberanía alimentaria, cuyo concepto contribuyó a visibilizar los problemas que enfrentan las pequeñas unidades productivas familiares y la importancia de incluir en la política pública acciones que respeten la diversidad de las semillas cultivadas, las prácticas agrícolas tradicionales, el cuidado de los recursos y la reproducción de alimentos culturalmente aceptados. En este contexto, el presente trabajo tiene como objetivo caracterizar la producción de maíz de tres regiones lacustres de Michoacán desde la perspectiva de la soberanía alimentaria y, a partir de ello, delinear algunas consideraciones de política pública para su fortalecimiento. Para ello, se realizó un análisis comparado sobre los planteamientos del paradigma de soberanía alimentaria a partir de información propia obtenida mediante una encuesta aplicada a productores de maíz de tres regiones lacustres del estado de Michoacán. Los resultados muestran la coexistencia de diversos sistemas productivos que van desde los tradicionales hasta la producción intensiva en cada región, observando experiencias de soberanía alimentaria manifiestas en la región Pátzcuaro y silenciosas en la región Cuitzeo.

Resumen La pequeña agricultura del secano de Chile Central se enfrenta hoy a diversas limitaciones como son la escasez o variabilidad de regímenes de lluvias anuales, la influencia del cambio climático global y lejanía de los centros de desarrollo. La implementación de programas para el desarrollo agrícola requiere de un adecuado diagnóstico y evaluación de la sostenibilidad de los sistemas agrícolas, lo que es posible realizar usando una diversidad de índices. Este estudio analizó la sostenibilidad de la pequeña agricultura de secano de la Región de Valparaíso en Chile Central a través del marco SAFA Smallholders de la FAO. Esta herramienta ha sido validada en diferentes contextos, incluyendo indicadores en dimensiones social, ambiental, económico y de gobernanza. En particular, se evaluó la sostenibilidad de 30 predios representativos de la zona en cuanto a la diversidad de cultivos, enfoque de producción (convencional vs. agroecológico) y el acceso a agua para riego. Al no existir antecedentes previos de este tipo de evaluaciones mediante la herramienta SAFA en el país, este estudio podría considerarse como exploratorio. Los resultados muestran un nivel de sostenibilidad intermedio con un valor promedio de 60% en una escala de 1-100%. Los predios con mayor diversidad de cultivos y prácticas agroecológicas revelaron más altos niveles de sostenibilidad que aquellos con enfoque en monocultivo y prácticas convencionales. Los resultados sugieren fomentar prácticas agroecológicas acorde a la precariedad de recursos hídricos disponibles; reforzar los programas e iniciativas que contribuyan a la participación de los productores en sus organizaciones gremiales e inversiones comunitarias de su territorio; mejorar su liquidez con el acceso a diferentes fuentes de financiamiento; y ampliar a un mayor público las capacitaciones técnicas y de gestión.

Abstract Small-scale agriculture in the drylands of Central Chile is facing several challenges, such as scarcity or variability of annual rainfall regimes, the impact of global climate change, and distance from development centers. The implementation of programs for agricultural development requires an adequate diagnosis and assessment of the sustainability of agricultural systems, which can be conducted using a diversity of indices. This study analyzed the sustainability of small-scale dryland agriculture in the Valparaíso Region in Central Chile through the FAO SAFA Smallholders framework. This tool has been validated in different contexts, including indicators in social, environmental, economic and governance dimensions. In particular, the sustainability of 30 representative farms in the study area was evaluated in terms of crop diversity, production approach (conventional vs. agroecological) and access to water for irrigation. As there is no previous history of the use of the SAFA tool in this type of evaluations in the country, this study could be considered exploratory. The results show an intermediate level of sustainability with an average value of 60% on a scale of 1-100%. Farms with greater diversity of crops and agroecological practices revealed higher levels of sustainability than those with a focus on monoculture and conventional practices. The results highlight the importance of promoting agroecological practices according to the precariousness of available water resources; reinforcing programs and initiatives that contribute to the participation of farmers in their union organizations and community investments in their territory; improving farmers’ liquidity through the access to different financing sources; and expanding technical and management training to a larger audience.

Resumen: Los nutrientes, como el nitrógeno y el fósforo generan, entre otros impactos, la eutrofización en los cuerpos de agua. Estos impactos son principalmente causados por actividades agrícolas como la ganadería, debido a la aplicación de fertilizantes y/o al estiércol de las vacas. Los nutrientes transportados por la escorrentía llegan a los cuerpos de agua y generan contaminación. Esta problemática ha sido abordada desde la década de los 60, no obstante, se ha logrado poco avance en este tema. Los avances están relacionados con la estimación del aporte de nutrientes de forma teórica y a través de simulaciones, debido a los altos costos que implica tomar datos en el campo. También se han realizado esfuerzos en la implementación de Buenas Prácticas de Gestión para el manejo de las fuentes no puntuales, pero existe poca evidencia de la eficiencia de cada una de estas prácticas. Por otro lado, pese a la falta de información científica necesaria para formular políticas, se ha demostrado que la vía normativa puede ser el mejor mecanismo para controlar la contaminación por fuentes no puntuales. En este artículo, se presenta una revisión de estos tres componentes luego del análisis bibliométrico, estableciendo lo que se conoce actualmente y las brechas de información. Primero, se abordan los avances en la estimación del aporte de las fuentes no puntuales, segundo se presentan las Buenas Prácticas de Gestión, y tercero, se exponen los avances en materia de políticas para el control de la contaminación no puntual.

Abstract: Nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorus generate, among other impacts, eutrophication in water bodies. These impacts are mainly caused by agricultural activities such as livestock farming, due to the application of fertilizers and/or cow manure. The nutrients transported by runoff reach water bodies and generate pollution. This issue has been addressed since the 1960s; however, little progress has been made in this area. The progress is related to estimating nutrient contributions theoretically and through simulations, due to the high costs of collecting field data. Efforts have also been made to implement Good Management Practices for the management of non-point sources, but significant efficiency for each of these practices has not been demonstrated. On the other hand, despite the lack of necessary scientific information to formulate policies, it has been shown that the regulatory route can be the best mechanism for controlling non-point source pollution. This article presents a review of these three components after a bibliometric analysis, establishing what is currently known and the information gaps. First, advances in estimating the contributions of non-point sources are addressed, second Good Management Practices are presented, and third advances in policies for controlling non-point source pollution are discussed.

Abstract Trichoderma is a cosmopolitan fungus widely distributed around the world. The different uses of this beneficial fungus are varied in several industries, like agriculture, textile, and paper, including the pharmaceutical industry. The genus Trichoderma has other mechanisms of action, including the production of different enzymes and secreted secondary metabolites used in various industries. The genomes of different Trichoderma species have been sequenced to identify the mechanisms for producing several compounds. The advancement of multiple technologies has allowed the development of transformation tools for the genetic improvement of Trichoderma, thus increasing biomass, primary and secondary metabolites, and enzymes. Therefore, genetic modification aims to increase compound production in several Trichoderma strains. Characterization of Trichoderma through gene expression analysis is essential for biotechnology applications. It helps counteract one of the most challenging problems for agriculture today, including climate change and the appearance of pathogens that attack crops with high commercial and food demand. In conclusion, this review analyzes various strategies to improve Trichoderma strains genetically and their multiple applications in the agricultural, textile, paper, and pharmaceutical industries. As a recommendation for future studies with potential impact, the optimization of specific genetic modifications in Trichoderma strains is recommended to improve their adaptability and effectiveness in combating emerging challenges in agriculture, especially those linked to climate change. Investigating possible synergies between genetically modified Trichoderma strains and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices could contribute to developing solutions for crop protection and yield improvement.

Abstract Background: Traditional Agroforestry Systems in Mexico are diverse and contribute to the conservation of vegetation and also to the well-being of rural communities. However, the Traditional Agroforestry Systems of the Tropical Deciduous Forest, have been poorly documented, particularly those of the Sierra de Huautla Biosphere Reserve, Morelos, Mexico. Questions: What are the Traditional Agroforestry Systems present in the Sierra de Huautla Biosphere Reserve?; what agricultural and forestry elements are characteristic of each one of them?; what socio-ecological benefits do they provide to communities?; how do they contribute to the conservation of Tropical Dry Forest in the Sierra de Huautla Biosphere Reserve, Morelos, Mexico? Studied species: Several of Tropical Deciduous Forest. Study site and dates: Reserva de la Biósfera Sierra de Huautla, Morelos, México. 2014-2022. Methods: Literature review, ethnobotanical hikes and semi-structured interviews. With this information, a classification was made based on the number of species present, management strategies and agroforestry practices. Results: Six Traditional Agroforestry Systems were documented (Homegardens, Milpas, Agrosilvopastoral Systems, Pitayeras, Bursera Agroforestry System, and Tlacololes). In these, 514 species of plants are managed, which contribute to satisfying the diverse needs of the communities and provide several environmental benefits. Conclusions: Traditional Agroforestry Systems of the south region of Morelos, contribute to the conservation of the Tropical Deciduous Forest and help to maintain biocultural diversity in the Sierra de Huautla Biosphere Reserve.

Resumen Antecedentes: Los Sistemas Agroforestales Tradicionales en México son diversos y constribuyen a la conservación de la vegetación y también al bienestar de las personas de comunidades rurales. Sin embargo los Sistemas Agroforestales Tradicionales del Bosque Tropical han sido poco documentados, particularmente los de la Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra de Huautla, Morelos. Preguntas: ¿Cuáles son los Sistemas Agroforestales Tradicionales presentes en la Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra de Huautla?; ¿qué elementos agrícolas y forestales son característicos de cada uno de ellos?; ¿qué beneficios socioecológicos proveen a las comunidades?; ¿cómo contribuyen a la conservación del Bosque Tropical Caducifolio en la Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra de Huautla? Especies de estudio: Varias del Bosque Tropical Caducifolio Sitio y año de estudio: Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra de Huautla, Morelos, México. 2021-2022. Métodos: Revisión de literatura, recorridos etnobotánicos y entrevistas semiestructuradas. Con esta información se realizó una clasificación en función del número de especies presentes, estrategias de manejo y prácticas agroforestales. Resultados: Se documentaron seis Sistemas Agroforestales Tradicionales (Huertos, Milpas, Sistemas Agrosilvopastoriles, Pitayeras, Sistema Agroforestal de Burseras y Tlacololes). En éstos se manejan 514 especies de plantas, las cuales contribuyen a satisfacer diversas necesidades de las comunidades y proveen diversos beneficios ambientales. Conclusiones: Los Sistemas Agroforestales Tradicionales contribuyen a la conservación del BTC y ayudan a mantener la diversidad biocultural en la REBIOSH.

Abstract Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum herbicide that has been applied to agricultural fields in more than 200 countries for 40 years. Due to recent studies that demonstrated its relationship as a carcinogen, a worldwide debate has opened about its use and prohibition. Mexico has joined the movement to ban its use in the decree issued in December 2020. Due to its constant application, residual glyphosate impacts different environmental compartments, including the soil. Therefore, the objective was to identify the agricultural practices and weed management used in the ejido of Bella Esperanza, Coatepec, Veracruz, as part of the characterization of the sampling site for the research project on the bioremediation of glyphosate with endogenous microorganisms. Through a field approach, surveys were carried out with producers in the area, where the results showed that 54% use glyphosate as their primary weed control. They do not use any protective equipment either and consider glyphosate a product harmless to the environment. In the same way, the result of this study observed that the ejido of Bella Esperanza is a suitable sampling area for studying microorganisms with possible applications in bioremediation.

Resumen El glifosato es un herbicida de amplio espectro que ha sido aplicado en los campos agrícolas de más de 200 países desde hace 40 años. Debido a recientes investigaciones que demostraron su relación como cancerígeno, se ha abierto un debate a nivel mundial sobre su uso y prohibición. México se ha sumado al movimiento de prohibir su uso en el decreto emitido en diciembre de 2020. El efecto del glifosato residual debido a la aplicación constante del mismo tiene afectaciones en diferentes compartimentos ambientales, entre ellos el suelo. Por lo tanto, el objetivo fue identificar las prácticas agrícolas y manejo de arvenses que se emplean en el ejido de Bella Esperanza, Coatepec, Veracruz, como parte de la caracterización del sitio de muestreo para el proyecto de investigación en torno a la biorremediación del glifosato con microorganismos endógenos. Mediante un acercamiento de campo, se realizaron encuestas a los productores de la zona, donde los resultados mostraron que el 54% emplea el glifosato como principal control de malezas. Asimismo, no emplean ningún equipo de protección y consideran al glifosato como un producto inocuo para el medio ambiente. Del mismo modo, el resultado de este estudio observó que el ejido de Bella Esperanza es un área de muestreo adecuada para el estudio de microorganismos con posibles aplicaciones en biorremediación.

ABSTRACT Tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) is a species with promising potential for commercial production; therefore, studies involving practices of conducting culture in the initial stage are essential. The present study aimed to evaluate different shading levels and substrate compositions in the seedling production of tamarind. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 4×4 factorial scheme, four levels of shading (0%, 18%, 30%, and 50%) and four substrates (pine bark-based substrate pure and mixed with 50% vermiculite, and sphagnum peat-based substrate pure and mixed with 50% vermiculite), with four replicates of four seedlings. Growth and biometric relationships were evaluated at 40 and 98 d after transplantation (DAT). The results reported that seedlings formed on the sphagnum peat-based substrate on pure or associated with vermiculite at 98 DAT had a height greater than 35 cm and a total 8.5 g DM. In contrast, seedlings produced in pine bark-based substrate did not reach 20 cm in height and had less than 3 g total DM. The condition of 30% and 50% shading promoted greater growth in height, reaching an average height greater than 40 cm, while in the full sun environment, seedlings showed an average of less than 35 cm; however, for the other variables, full sun environment did not differ from 30% shading, producing good quality seedlings. Thus, the cultivation of seedlings in an environment with 0% or 30% shading, associated with the sphagnum peat-based substrate pure or mixed with 50% vermiculite promoted the production of tamarind seedlings with vigorous growth. In the best environments, the best substrates increased, on average, 41.3% number of leaves, 80.5% shoot dry mass, 56.8% root dry mass, and 71.0% total dry mass. In the best substrates, the best environments increased, on average, 18.0% number of leaves, 20.7% shoot dry mass, 8.7% root dry mass, and 14.3% total dry mass.

ABSTRACT: This study addresses the need to understand the presence of functional microorganisms in tropical soils, providing valuable information for conservation and sustainable management. The main objective is to analyze the variability of functional microorganisms at different soil depths and their correlations with physicochemical parameters. To this end, soil samples were collected from 15 random points in a reserved forest and analyzed for physicochemical and microbiological properties at two depths (10 and 20 cm). The following functional microorganisms were quantified: viable aerobes, lactobacilli, actinomycetes, fungi, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria using specific protocols. The non-parametric Wilcoxon test was used to determine differences between depths, and the Pearson correlation coefficient (|ρ| ≥ 0.8) was used to analyze correlations between physicochemical parameters and microorganisms. The results suggest that the abundance of viable aerobic microorganisms, Lactobacillus, Actinomycetes, and Fungi decreases with soil depth, while nitrogen-fixing bacteria show no significant differences. The decrease in abundance is related to factors such as nutrient and oxygen availability and microenvironmental conditions. There is a strong positive correlation between the amount of viable aerobic microorganisms and Lactobacillus with phosphorus content, and a negative correlation between Actinomycetes and clay content. Actinomycetes prefer sandy soils, while Fungi thrive in soils rich in organic matter. The negative correlation between Fungi and Actinomycetes suggests competition for limited resources and possible chemical interactions, such as the production of antibiotic compounds by Actinomycetes. This study demonstrates that a detailed understanding of soil microbiota can offer new opportunities to improve agricultural practices, especially in terms of soil fertility management and environmental sustainability.

RESUMEN: Este estudio aborda la necesidad de entender la presencia microorganismos funcionales en suelos tropicales, proporcionando información valiosa para la conservación y manejo sostenible. Tiene como principal objetivo analizar la variabilidad de microorganismos funcionales en diferentes profundidades del suelo y las correlaciones con los parámetros fisicoquímicos. Para ello se recolectaron muestras de suelo de 15 puntos aleatorios en un bosque reservado y se analizaron propiedades fisicoquímicas y microbiológicas a dos profundidades (10 y 20 cm). Se cuantificaron los siguientes microorganismos funcionales: aerobios viables, lactobacilos, actinomicetos, hongos y bacterias fijadoras de nitrógeno utilizando protocolos específicos. Se empleó la prueba no paramétrica de Wilcoxon para determinar diferencias entre profundidades y el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson (|ρ| ≥ 0,8) para analizar correlaciones entre parámetros fisicoquímicos y microorganismos. Los resultados sugieren que la abundancia de microorganismos aerobios viables, Lactobacillus, Actinomicetos y Fungi disminuye con la profundidad del suelo, mientras que las bacterias fijadoras de nitrógeno no muestran diferencias significativas. La disminución de la abundancia se relaciona con factores como la disponibilidad de nutrientes y oxígeno y las condiciones microambientales. Existe una correlación positiva fuerte entre la cantidad de microorganismos aerobios viables y Lactobacillus con el contenido de fósforo, y una correlación negativa entre Actinomicetos y el contenido de Arcilla. Los Actinomicetos prefieren suelos arenosos, mientras que los Fungi prosperan en suelos ricos en materia orgánica. La correlación negativa entre Fungi y Actinomicetos sugiere competencia por recursos limitados y posibles interacciones químicas, como la producción de compuestos antibióticos por parte de los Actinomicetos. Este estudio demuestra que la comprensión detallada de la microbiota del suelo puede ofrecer nuevas oportunidades para mejorar las prácticas agrícolas, especialmente en términos de gestión de la fertilidad del suelo y sostenibilidad ambiental.

Resumen El abandono rural es un fenómeno global promovido por causas biofísicas, socioeconómicas y socioproductivas, que conduce a la desaparición de prácticas agrícolas tradicionales y tiene graves impactos en la seguridad alimentaria y los medios de vida locales. Este fenómeno es más complejo en las tierras secas, ya que es poco probable que se recuperen las tierras productivas perdidas debido a la disponibilidad limitada de recursos hídricos. Los objetivos de este estudio son identificar tierras agrícolas abandonadas en un sector del este del oasis norte de Mendoza (Argentina) y determinar las principales causas que conducen este proceso. Se empleó una perspectiva interdisciplinaria, que incluye la implementación de la técnica de diferencia del Índice de Vegetación de Diferencia Normalizada (NDVI) a partir de imágenes Landsat, el análisis de boosted regression trees para evaluar causas espacialmente explícitas y la evaluación de la percepción de los productores locales y sus asesores técnicos mediante una encuesta digital. Las tierras agrícolas abandonadas aumentaron un 92% entre 2002 y 2020 y los principales factores identificados por ambas fuentes de información (modelo espacial y percepción social) fueron la accesibilidad, el tipo de cultivo, las condiciones de vida vulnerables de la población local, la disponibilidad de agua de riego, la disponibilidad de mano de obra y la falta de rentabilidad. El enfoque propuesto busca contribuir al monitoreo de los recursos productivos y a un ordenamiento territorial con una visión holística y de largo plazo.

Abstract Rural abandonment is a global phenomenon promoted by biophysical, socio-economic, and socio-productive causes, leading to the disappearance of traditional agricultural practices and serious impacts on food security and local livelihoods. This phenomenon is more complex in drylands since the lost of productive land is unlikely to be recovered due to the limited availability of water resources. This study aimed to identify abandoned agricultural lands in a sector located east of the northern oasis of Mendoza (Argentina) and determine the main driving forces leading this process. The interdisciplinary perspective employed included the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) difference technique implemented on Landsat images, the boosted regression trees analysis of spatially explicit drivers, and a digital survey providing perception assessments from local producers and their technical advisors. Abandoned agricultural land has increased by 92% between 2002 and 2020, being accessibility, crop type, vulnerable living conditions of the local population, availability of irrigation water and labor, and the lack of profitability, the main drivers identified by both sources of information (spatial model and social perception). The proposed approach contributes to monitore productive resources and land-use planning with a holistic and long-term vision.