Summary: The middle area of the state of Sinaloa in Northwestern Mexico is characterized by a warm semi-arid climate where rainfall is insufficient for the adequate development of some introduced plant species. For example, those that correspond to the genus Brachiaria, despite technological advances in sencor development, the producers have limted access to sufficient meteorological information. Therefore, the aim in the present study is to determine water requirement, crop coefficient, and productivity of Convert 300 hybrid grass (Brachiaria sp) in a warm semiarid climate of Mexico by using the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO56 Penman-Montiel equation) method with complete and limited data; a meteorological station was used to measure climatic parameters, and the FAO56 method with dual kc was applied to estimate crop evapotranspiration under non-standard conditions, and subsequently, water productiviy. The estimated water consumption for the Convert 330 hybrid in the warm semiarid climate of northwest Mexico was 1849 mm with measured data and 1973.5 mm with limited data. The statistical analyses yielded a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.92, Willmott’s coefficient of agreement (d) of 0.90, RMSE of 0.694 mm d-1, BIAS of 0.380 mm d-1 and a Nash-Sutcliffe coefficient of efficiency (EF) of 0.98. The kc values were 0.49, 1.11 and 1.04 for initial, middle and end of season, respectively; the water productivity (WUE) was 2.666 kg m-3 for green forage, and 0.726 kg m-3, for dry matter, in the same way, 375.1 and 1378 L kg-1 were required to produce green forage and dry matter, respectively. To conclude, althought the ETc estimation with limited data overestimated the ETc with measured data by 6.7%, statistics showed that the procedure is reliable.

Resumen: La región central del estado de Sinaloa en el noroeste mexicano, se caracteriza por un clima semiárido cálido donde la precipitación es insuficiente para el desarrollo adecuado de algunas especies vegetales introducidas, como las correspondientes al género Brachiaria, a pesar del avance tecnológico en el desarrollo de sensores, es escaso el acceso de los productores a suficiente información meteorológica; el objetivo del presente trabajo consistió en determinar el requerimiento hídrico, coeficiente de cultivo y productividad del pasto híbrido Convert 330 (Brachiaria sp) en un clima semiárido cálido de México, utilizando el método FAO56 con datos medidos y datos limitados; se utilizó una estación meteorológica para medir los parámetros climáticos, y se aplicó el método FAO56 con kc dual para estimar la evapotranspiración de cultivo bajo condiciones no estándar, y posteriormente, la productividad del agua. El consumo de agua estimado para el pasto Convert 330 en clima semiárido cálido del noroeste de México fue de 1849 mm con datos medidos y 1973.5 mm con datos limitados; el análisis estadístico arrojó un coeficiente de determinación (R2) de 0.92, coeficiente de concordancia de Willmott (d) de 0.90, RMSE de 0.694 mm d-1, BIAS=0.380 mm d-1 y un coeficiente de eficiencia de Nash-Sutcliffe (EF) de 0.98. Los valores de kc obtenidos fueron de 0.49, 1.11 y 1.04 paras las etapas inicial, media y final, respectivamente; la productividad del agua (EUA) fue de 2.666 kg m-3 para forraje verde y 0.726 kg m-3 para materia seca; asimismo, se requirieron 375.1 y 1378 L kg-1 para la producción de forraje verde y materia seca, respectivamente. Finalmente, se concluye que, aunque la estimación de la ETc con datos limitados sobrestimó en un 6.7% la ETc con datos medidos, la estadística muestra que es confiable el procedimiento.

Resumen Introducción. Los sistemas de producción tradicionales de ganadería generan degradación de suelos, por lo cual es importante implementar sistemas silvopastoriles como una alternativa para la producción bovina de carne y leche. Objetivo. Cuantificar la producción de hojarasca foliar de especies leñosas perennes (Gmelina arborea - Melina, Tabebuia rosea - Roble, Acacia mangium – Acacia) y el aporte potencial de nutrientes al suelo (ciclaje de nutrientes) dentro de sistemas silvopastoriles. Materiales y métodos. Se evaluó la producción y descomposición de hojarasca de especies forestales en campos sembrados con una variedad de gramínea del género Brachiaria, en el Valle medio del Sinú, Colombia, durante mayo a septiembre de 2013. Se utilizó un diseño en bloques completos al azar con tres repeticiones. Los tratamientos utilizados fueron Pr= Brachiaria híbrido cv. Mulato II, SSP1 = Tabebuia rosea + Brachiaria cv. Mulato II, SSP2= Acacia mangium + Brachiaria cv. Mulato II y SSP3= Gmelina arborea + Brachiaria cv Mulato II. Resultados. Hubo mayor producción de hojarasca en especies forestales dentro de los sistemas silvopastoriles. La especie forestal G. arborea obtuvo los mayores aportes potenciales de nutrientes en la hojarasca con el siguiente patrón descendente en kg ha-1: C 4069,6 > Ca 96,47 >N 62,46 > K 37,48 > Mg 23,60 > P 14,57. La hojarasca de la pastura Mulato II y la especie forestal G. arborea exhibieron mayor velocidad de descomposición (k= 1,87 y k=1,77, respectivamente) que el resto de las especies evaluadas. Conclusiones. Las especies forestales evaluadas mejoraron la calidad del suelo mediante un mayor aporte de hojarasca y un mayor aporte potencial de nutrientes.

Abstract Introduction. Traditional livestock production systems generate soil degradation, so it is important to implement silvopastoral systems as an alternative for meat and dairy cattle production. Objective. To quantify the production of leaf litter of perennial woody species (Gmelina arborea - Melina, Tabebuia rosea - Oak, Acacia mangium - Acacia) and the potential contribution of nutrients to the soil (nutrient cycling) within silvopastoral systems. Materials and methods. The production and decomposition of leaf litter of forest species was evaluated in fields planted with a variety of grasses of the genus Brachiaria, in the middle Sinu valley, Colombia, during May to September 2013. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used. The treatments used were Pr= Brachiaria hybrid cv. Mulato II, SSP1= Tabebuia rosea + Brachiaria cv. Mulato II, SSP2= Acacia mangium + Brachiaria cv. Mulato II, and SSP3= Gmelina arborea + Brachiaria cv. Mulato II. Results. The greater production of leaf litter in forest species within the silvopastoral systems was evidenced. The forest species G. arborea had the highest potential nutrient inputs in litterfall with the following descending pattern in kg ha-1: C 4069,6> Ca 96,47> N 62,46> K 37,48> Mg 23,60> P 14,57. Mulato II pasture litter and the forest species G. arborea exhibited higher decomposition rates (k= 1.87 and k=1.77, respectively) than the rest of the species evaluated. Conclusions. The forest species evaluated improved soil quality through a higher leaf litter input and a higher potential nutrient input.

Resumen El trópico húmedo ecuatoriano tiene potencial para la producción ganadera y los cultivares de Urochloa pueden ser una opción para la producción de alimento, pero se deben considerar las condiciones ambientales y de manejo, ya que estas determinarán el rendimiento y valor nutritivo del forraje. Se evaluó el rendimiento de materia seca total (MST; t ha-1), componentes morfológicos (%; hoja, tallo, material muerto e inflorescencia) y la digestibilidad in situ de la MS (DISMS; g kg-1) en cinco cultivares de Urochloa: Mulato II, Marandú, Xaraés, Piatá y Señal (testigo), a tres edades de rebrote (4, 6 y 8 semanas), durante las épocas de lluvias (ELL) y seca (ESE). Los datos se analizaron dentro de cada época con un diseño de bloques completos al azar en arreglo de parcelas divididas. Durante la ELL no hubo diferencia (P>0.05) en MST, entre cultivares evaluados. Durante la ESE Marandú presentó menor rendimiento que Xaraés (0.92 vs 1.21 t ha-1). La proporción de componentes morfológicos fue diferente entre cultivares (P<0.05) y las hojas fueron el componente que más contribuyó al rendimiento. La DISMS se redujo de 64 a 56 % y de 60 a 56 %, cuando el forraje se cosechó a 4 y 8 semanas durante la ELL y ESE, respectivamente. Los cultivares evaluados mostraron rendimientos aceptables de MST, 2.6 y 1.0 t ha-1 y DISMS, 602 y 574 g kg-1, durante la ELL y ESE, respectivamente; por lo que pueden ser una alternativa forrajera para la ganadería del trópico húmedo de Ecuador.

Abstract The humid tropics of Ecuador is a potential livestock production area. Urochloa spp. cultivars are a forage option in this region. Environmental and management conditions determine forage yield and nutritional value and should be researched prior to establishing new forage species. An evaluation was done of total dry matter yield (TDM; t ha-1), morphological components proportions (%; leaf, stem, dead material and inflorescence) and in situ dry matter digestibility (DMD; g kg-1)) in five Urochloa cultivars (Mulato II, Marandú, Xaraés, Piatá and Señal [control]) and at three regrowth ages (4, 6 and 8 wk) during the rainy and dry seasons. A completely randomized block design in a split plot arrangement was used to analyze the data by season. During the rainy season, TDM did not differ (P>0.05) between cultivars. In the dry season, Marandú had a lower yield than Xaraés (0.92 vs 1.21 t ha-1). Morphological component proportions differed between cultivars (P<0.05), although the leaves contributed the most overall to yield. From four to eight weeks, DMD decreased from 64 to 56 % in the rainy season and from 60 to 56 % in the dry season. The evaluated cultivars exhibited acceptable TDM yields (2.6 t ha-1 in rainy season, 1.0 t ha-1 in dry season) and DMD (602 g kg-1 in rainy season, 574 g kg-1 in dry season). They are adequate forage alternatives for livestock in the humid tropics of Ecuador.

ABSTRACT. Ergot is a fungal disease and causes reductions in seed productivity and quality. We aimed to identify promising genotypes of brachiaria evaluating: (1) seed production potential (number of tillers, racemes per inflorescence, spikelets per raceme, raceme length, weight and number of seeds, and germination) and (2) resistance of seeds to Ergot (infected tillers, infected seeds). Five genotypes of Brachiaria grasses, four non-natural hybrids named BH1619, BH1810, BH1516 and Mavuno Palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha x Urochloa ruziziensis), and Marandu Palisadegrass (U. brizantha Hoechst cv. Marandu) were evaluated. The BH1619 hybrid, despite the high weight of seeds, produced less viable, pure seeds. The hybrid BH1516 had a lower percentage of flowered tillers (42%) and seeds infected with ergot (8%). Marandu Palisadegrass had a higher percentage of infected tillers (95%) and infected seeds (38%). The hybrid BH1516 was the most resistant to ergot, followed by Mavuno Palisadegras sand BH1619. Among all materials, Mavuno Palisadegrass and BH1516 have a higher potential for seed production due to the higher percentage of flowered tillers and production of pure seeds with high germination capacity. The BH1516 hybrid was resistant to ergot, making it a better choice for use in infected areas used for seed or forage production.

Abstract The response of four pasture species to liming, cultivated in a ferruginous nodular gley soil (plintosol) from Sabana de Manacas region, Cuba, was evaluated. Four doses of lime (0, 2, 4 and 6 t ha-1 of CaCO3) were studied in Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandú, Urochloa decumbens cv. CIAT-602, Urochloa hybrid cv. Mulato II and Urochloa hybrid cv. Yacaré, in a random block design with factorial arrangement and four replications. The experiment lasted three years and the variables that characterized soil acidity were evaluated, as well as the concentrations of biomass macronutrients and yields. Liming significantly increased (P <0.01) exchangeable Ca content (6.1 cmolc kg-1), pH in H2O (6.9), cation exchange capacity (7.3 cmolc kg-1) and the percentage of base saturation (94%), and the exchangeable acidity of soil decreased (0.91 cmolc kg-1). The best effects were achieved with the dose of 6 t ha-1. With 4 and 6 t ha-1, the highest Ca concentrations (P <0.01) in the biomass (5.5 g kg-1 of dry mass) and the highest yields (up to 11.7 t ha-1) were obtained. The effectiveness of liming was maintained for two years. It is concluded that liming improves calcium nutrition and increases productivity of pastures of Brachiaria genus, cultivated in an acid soil with low fertility, in Sabana de Manacas region. Its greatest effects on soil and yields are maintained during the first two years. The application of 4 ha-1 of lime is recommended.

Resumen Se evaluó la respuesta al encalado de cuatro especies de pastos, cultivados en un suelo gley nodular ferruginoso (plintosol) de la región Sabana de Manacas, Cuba. Se estudiaron cuatro dosis de cal (0, 2, 4 y 6 t ha-1 de CaCO3) en Urochloa brizantha vc. Marandú, Urochloa decumbens vc. CIAT-602, Urochloa híbrido vc. Mulato II y Urochloa híbrido vc. Yacaré, en un diseño de bloques al azar con arreglo factorial y cuatro réplicas. El experimento duró tres años y se evaluaron las variables que caracterizan la acidez del suelo, así como las concentraciones de macronutrientes en la biomasa y los rendimientos. El encalado aumentó significativamente (P<0.01) el contenido de Ca intercambiable (6.1cmolc kg-1), el pH en H2O (6.9), la capacidad de intercambio de bases (7.3 cmolc kg-1) y el porcentaje de saturación por bases (94 %), y disminuyó la acidez intercambiable del suelo (0.91 cmolc kg-1). Los mayores efectos se alcanzaron con la dosis de 6 t ha-1. Con las aplicaciones de 4 y 6 t ha-1 se obtuvieron las concentraciones más altas (P < 0.01) de Ca en la biomasa (5.5 g kg-1 de masa seca) y los más altos rendimientos (hasta 11.7 t ha-1). La efectividad del encalado se mantuvo durante dos años. Se concluye que el encalado mejora la nutrición cálcica y aumenta la productividad de pastos del género Brachiaria, cultivados en un suelo ácido y de baja fertilidad, de la región Sabana de Manacas. Sus mayores efectos en el suelo y los rendimientos se mantienen durante los dos primeros años. Se recomienda la aplicación de 4 ha-1 de cal.

RESUMO A amplitude crítica na concentração foliar de nitrogênio (NFoliar) pode ser utilizada para monitorar o status de N das plantas, sendo ferramenta essencial para definir protocolos de fertilização estratégica, onde o período e quantidades de fertilizantes são aplicados de acordo com a demanda da pastagem. Foram avaliados parâmetros de produtividade e dois métodos para determinação da suficiência em N - (i) o índice de nutrição nitrogenada (INN) e (ii) o índice normalizado de suficiência em N (INS) - em Brachiaria híbrida Mavuno (Brachiaria spp. Syn. Urochloa spp.) ao longo dos ciclos de rebrotação da primeira estação de crescimento após a semeadura (fase de estabelecimento). Os objetivos do estudo foram estimar amplitude crítica do NFoliar para o capim Mavuno através de seus parâmetros de produtividade, considerando a amostragem da folha mais jovem completamente expandida como referência. Os níveis de fertilização adotados foram: 0 (N0), 15 (N15), 30 (N30) e 45 (N45) kg ha-1 de N, e foram aplicados após cada corte. O medidor de clorofila portátil Falker ClorofiLOG® CFL1030 foi utilizado para obter o Índice de Clorofila Falker (ICF), e os resultados foram utilizados para calcular o INS. Análises de regressão, tomando por base cada ciclo de rebrotação, proveram os parâmetros para estimar de amplitude crítica do NFoliar e os níveis de fertilização requeridos para atingir o máximo acúmulo de forragem (FAc). A densidade populacional de perfilhos foi a principal resposta que contribuiu para aumentos em massa de folhas e colmos, índice de área foliar e FAc com aumentos nos níveis de fertilização. O índice ICF e o método NSI não foram capazes de detectar diferenças em NFoliar, mas o NNI foi considerado adequado para detecção do status de N. A amplitude crítica do NFoliar variou de 2,75 a 3,07%, e pode ser indicada para monitorar o status de N da pastagem. O protocolo de fertilização estratégica sugerido para a estação de crescimento sucessiva ao estabelecimento da pastagem corresponde à aplicação de 42,0 a 46,7 kg ha-1 de N no primeiro ciclo de rebrotação, 27,0 a 32,5 kg ha-1 de N durante os dois ciclos subsequentes, mas para ciclos de rebrotação do final da estação de crescimento (abril a maio) apenas 22,2 a 24,7 kg ha-1 de N seriam suficientes para sustentar o máximo acúmulo de forragem.

ABSTRACT The critical range of leaf nitrogen (%NLeaf) concentration can be used to monitor the plant’s nitrogen (N) status, being an essential tool to define strategic fertilization protocols, where the time and amounts of fertilizers are applied according to pasture’s demand. The productivity parameters and two methods to determine N sufficiency - (i) the N nutrition index (NNI) and (ii) the normalized N sufficiency index (NSI) - were evaluated in Brachiaria hybrid Mavuno (Brachiaria spp. Syn. Urochloa spp.) along the regrowth cycles of the first growth season after seeding (establishment phase). The aims of the study were to estimate the critical %NLeaf for Mavuno grass pastures through productivity parameters, considering the sampling of the youngest expanded leaf as reference. Fertilization rates were defined as follow: no-nitrogen (N0), 15 (N15), 30 (N30) and 45 (N45) kg ha-1 of N and were applied after each cutting. The Falker chlorophyll index (FCI) was obtained from a portable chlorophyll meter Falker ClorofiLOG® CFL1030, and results were used to calculate the NSI. The regression analysis, on a regrowth cycle basis, provided the parameters to estimate the critical range of %NLeaf and the fertilization rates to attain the maximum forage accumulation. Population density of tiller was the main response contributing to increasing leaf and stem mass, leaf area index and forage accumulation as N fertilization increased. The FCI and NSI were unable to capture differences in %NLeaf, but NNI was a suitable tool to detect N status in Mavuno grass. The critical %NLeaf range varied from 2.75 to 3.07% and may be indicated to monitor pasture’s N status. The strategic N fertilization protocol suggested for the growth season after seeding is to apply 42.0 to 46.7 kg ha-1 of N at the first regrowth, 27.0 to 32.5 kg ha-1 of N during the two following regrowth cycles, whereas at the end of the season (April to May regrowth) only 22.2 to 24.7 kg ha-1 of N would be enough to sustain a maximum growth.

ABSTRACT An experiment was carried out with the objective of evaluating the effect of biofertilization with the plant growth promoting bacteria Azospirillum brasilense and the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Rhizoglomus irregulare in Brachiaria hybrid grass cv. Mulato II cultivated in a Mollic Carbonated Cambisol. It included four treatments formed by the inoculation, alone and in combination, of both microorganisms plus a control without inoculation, in a Latin Square design. The inoculum with R. irregulare had a concentration of 30 g-1spores and was applied by the method of coating the seeds, while A. Brasilense, with a concentration of 109 CFU mL-1, was applied by embedding the seeds at the time of planting, and at a rate of 20 L ha-1after the first cut. Four cuts were made, at intervals of 60 and 90 days in the rainy and dry season, respectively. R. irregulare increased the frequency and intensity of mycorrhizal colonization, as well as the number of spores in the rhizosphere, although the greatest results were achieved when applied with A. brasilense. Biofertilizers separately increased the growth of the aerial and radical part of the plants, the nitrogen concentrations in the aerial biomass and the dry mass yield of the grass, but the higher values of these variables, as well as the greater contribution of the biofertilization in Nitrogen grass nutrition was obtained with its joint application. The effect of biofertilization was maintained for one year.

RESUMEN Se realizó un experimento con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto de la biofertilización con la rizobacteria Azospirillum brasilense y el hongo micorrízico arbuscular Rhizoglomus irregulare en el pasto Brachiaria híbrido cv. Mulato II cultivado en un suelo Pardo Mullido Carbonatado. Se incluyeron cuatro tratamientos conformados por la inoculación sola y combinada, de ambos microorganismos, más un testigo sin inocular, en un diseño cuadrado latino. El inóculo con R. irregulare poseía una concentración de 30 esporas g-1 y se aplicó mediante el método del recubrimiento de las semillas al momento de la siembra, mientras que A. brasilense, con una concentración de 109 UFC mL-1, se aplicó sumergiendo las semillas en una solución de inóculo y agua en relación 1:10, y a razón de 20 L ha1 después del primer corte. Se realizaron cuatro cortes, a intervalos de 60 y 90 días en el período lluvioso y poco lluvioso, respectivamente. R. irregulare aumentó la frecuencia e intensidad de la colonización micorrízica, así como el número de esporas en la rizosfera, aunque los mayores resultados se alcanzaron cuando se aplicó con A. brasilense. Los biofertilizantes por separado incrementaron el crecimiento de la parte aérea y radical de las plantas, las concentraciones de nitrógeno en la biomasa aérea y el rendimiento de masa seca del pasto, pero los mayores valores de estas variables, así como la mayor contribución de la biofertilización a la nutrición nitrogenada del pasto, se obtuvieron con su aplicación conjunta. El efecto de la biofertilización se mantuvo durante un año.

Abstract Objective: To determine the size and shape of the experimental unit for yield trials of Brachiaria, hybrid CIAT 3608, in the Santa Cruz canton, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, through the application of the multiple regression method. Materials and Methods: A uniformity trial was planted and the obtained data were used to apply the multiple regression method. According to it, the residual variability was measured as variation coefficient, corresponding to the different simulated sizes and shapes of experimental unit, and modeling was done depending on length and width. Two multiple regression models were adjusted: one of them included the term of interaction among the regressors, and the other did not. Results: The model without the interaction term was the one with the best fit. It had higher R2 and all the estimated coefficients were significant (p < 0,05). Then, the partial derivatives were calculated with regards to the length and width of the regression equation, estimated by the model without interaction, and they were equal to -1. The system of resulting equations was solved and the combination of width and length of the experimental unit, which minimizes the variation coefficient, was obtained. For this work, this combination turned out to be 4,95 m of length and the width is 6,03 m. Conclusions: In the framework of the conditions under which this work was conducted, to obtain accurate results with the species Brachiaria hybrid CIAT 3608, one experimental unit of 5 X 6 m of length and width, respectively, is sufficient.

Resumen Objetivo: Determinar el tamaño y la forma de unidad experimental para ensayos de rendimiento de Brachiaria híbrido CIAT 3608, mediante el método de regresión múltiple, en el cantón de Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Materiales y Métodos: Para esto, se sembró un ensayo de uniformidad y los datos obtenidos fueron empleados para aplicar el método regresión múltiple. En este método, la variabilidad residual, medida como coeficiente de variación, correspondiente a los diferentes tamaños y formas de unidad experimental que se simularon se modeló en función del largo y ancho mediante una regresión múltiple. Se ajustaron dos modelos de regresión múltiple, uno que incluyó el término de interacción entre las regresoras y otro que no. Resultados: El modelo sin el término de interacción fue el que mejor ajustó, tuvo mayor R2 y todos los coeficientes estimados fueron significativos (p < 0,05). Después, se calcularon las derivadas parciales con respecto al largo y al ancho de la ecuación de regresión estimada por el modelo sin interacción y se igualaron a -1. Se resolvió el sistema de ecuaciones resultante y se obtuvo la combinación de ancho y largo de unidad experimental que minimiza el coeficiente de variación. Para este trabajo esa combinación resultó ser de 4,95 m de largo y el ancho es de 6,03 m. Conclusiones: En el marco de las condiciones en que se realizó este trabajo, es suficiente para obtener resultados precisos con la especie Brachiaria híbrido CIAT 3608, una unidad experimental de 5 X 6 m de largo y ancho, respectivamente. Esto es, una unidad experimental de 30 m2.

RESUMO O uso de glifosato associado com outros herbicidas torna-se uma alternativa importante para o manejo de plantas daninhas infestantes do milho, pois ele aumenta o espectro de controle, minimiza problemas com resistência e tolerância de plantas daninhas ao herbicida. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar a eficiência, a seletividade e os efeitos nos componentes de rendimento de grãos do milho resistente ao glifosato pelo uso dessa substância associada ou não a outros herbicidas aplicados em pré- e pós-emergência. O experimento foi instalado em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com quatros repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram na utilização do glifosato em combinação com os herbicidas: atrazina, [atrazina + simazina], [atrazina + óleo], [atrazina + S-metolacloro], aplicados em pré- e/ou pós-emergência e o [nicosulfuron + mesotriona] somente em pós-emergência, além das testemunhas capinada e infestada. Avaliaram-se as variáveis: fitotoxicidade ao milho, controle de plantas daninhas, altura de inserção de espigas, número de fileiras e de grãos por espiga, peso de mil grãos e a produtividade de grãos. Os herbicidas ocasionaram baixa fitotoxicidade ao milho, inferior a 6%, controle superior a 88, 95 e 95% para papuã, nabo e girassol, respectivamente, e não influenciaram negativamente nos componentes relacionados ao rendimento de grãos da cultura. Os herbicidas testados são seletivos ao híbrido Forseed 2A521 PW e efetivos no controle de papuã, nabo e girassol. O manejo das plantas daninhas com capina ou herbicidas proporcionou aumento de cerca de 43% na produtividade de grãos do híbrido de milho Forseed 2A521 PW. O uso de glifosato em mistura de tanque com herbicidas aplicados em pré- ou pós-emergência incrementou, aproximadamente, 14% a produtividade de grãos de milho.

ABSTRACT The application of glyphosate associated with other herbicides is an important alternative for weed control in maize, to increase control spectrum and to minimize problems with resistance and tolerance from some species to the product. The objective of this work was to evaluate the efficacy, selectivity and effects on the grain yield components of glyphosate-resistant maize as a function of its application, associated or not with other pre- and postemergence herbicides. The design used was randomized blocks with four replications. Treatments consisted in the use of glyphosate combined with the herbicides: atrazine, [atrazine + simazine], [atrazine + oil], [atrazine + S-metolachlor], applied pre- and/or postemergence and [nicosulfuron + mesotrione] only postemergence, plus two controls, one weeded and one infested. The evaluated variables were maize phytotoxicity, weed control, ear insertion height, number of rows per ear, number of grains per row, one thousand grain mass and grain yield. Herbicide treatments caused low phytotoxicity to maize, less than 6%; control greater than 88, 95 and 95% for alexandergrass, turnip and sunflower, respectively, and did not affect grain yield components. The tested herbicides are selective to the hybrid Forseed 2A521 PW and effective in weed control. Weed control with weeding or herbicide increased maize Forseed 2A521 PW yield by 43%. The association of glyphosate with pre- or postemergence herbicides increased maize grain yield by approximately 14%.

RESUMO O consórcio de sorgo granífero com braquiária proporciona a produção de grãos e massa seca na entressafra; contudo, há carência de informações relacionadas à implantação dessas espécies. Sendo assim, este trabalho teve por objetivo identificar a melhor associação de sorgo granífero e braquiária na segunda safra para produção de grãos e massa seca na região do Cerrado. O experimento foi conduzido em Rio Verde, Goiás, no delineamento experimental de blocos randomizados, em esquema fatorial 2×3×4+5, com quatro repetições. Foram avaliados dois híbridos de sorgo granífero (BRS 330 e DKB 551) associados a três espécies de Brachiaria (Brachiaria brizantha cultivar Marandu, Brachiaria decumbens e Brachiaria ruziziensis) em quatro sistemas de implantação da braquiária (linha, entrelinha, linha + entrelinha do sorgo e a lanço). Os tratamentos adicionais referiam-se aos dois monocultivos de sorgo e às três espécies de braquiária. O consórcio de sorgo com braquiária ocasionou redução no rendimento de grãos, porém os sistemas de implantação da braquiária na linha, entrelinha e a lanço foram os mais promissores. O híbrido de sorgo DKB 551 foi o mais sensível à competição com a braquiária, sem, contudo, haver diferenças de rendimento de grãos em consórcio. Os consórcios das braquiárias na entrelinha e na linha + entrelinha, principalmente com a B. ruziziensis, foram os mais promissores para produção de massa seca e proteína bruta total. O cultivo de braquiária com o sorgo proporcionou maior aporte de massa seca na entressafra, fato importante para o sistema de plantio direto nos sistemas de produção agrícola dos Cerrados.

ABSTRACT The grain sorghum intercropped with Brachiaria provides the production of grains and dry mass in the off-season; however, there is a lack of information related to the implantation of these species. The objective of this study was to identify the best association of sorghum and Brachiaria in the production of grain and dry matter in the Brazilian Cerrado region. The experiment was conducted in Rio Verde, State of Goiás, in the experimental design of randomized blocks, in a 2×3×4+5 factorial scheme, with four replications. Two sorghum hybrids (BRS 330 and DKB 551) associated to three Brachiaria species (Brachiaria brizantha cultivar Marandu, Brachiaria decumbens and Brachiaria ruziziensis) were evaluated in four systems of Brachiaria implantation (row, interrow, row + interrow of sorghum and spread). Additional treatments referred to the two sorghum monocrops and the three Brachiaria species. The sorghum and Brachiaria consortium resulted in a reduction in grain yield, but the Brachiaria implantation systems in the row, interrow and spread were the most promising. The sorghum hybrid DKB 551 was the most sensitive to the competition with Brachiaria, although there were no grain yield differences in the intercropping. The Brachiaria intercropped in the interrow and in the row + interrow, mainly with B. ruziziensis, were the most promising for the production of dry mass and total crude protein. The cultivation of Brachiaria intercropped with sorghum provided a greater contribution of dry mass in the off-season, an important fact for the no-tillage system in the agricultural production systems of the Brazilian Cerrado.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate milk production and ingestive behavior of Holstein cows and the structural characteristics of Mulato II, a hybrid Brachiaria grass CIAT 36087 (B. ruziziensis × B. decumbens × B. brizantha), and Marandu (Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu) pastures under rotational stocking. The experiment was conducted from December 2011 to April 2012 after 10 months of adaptation to the grazing management objectives (25 cm pre-grazing height and 15-20 cm post-grazing height). An area of 4 ha was divided into 28 paddocks: 14 with Mulato II pasture and 14 with Marandu pasture. The treatments consisted of the two grasses and a completely randomized design of the grazing variables with six repetitions each (paddock of evaluation) was used. For the animal variables, a randomized matched pairs design of 20 Holstein cows forming 10 blocks of two animals with similar production each was used. The forage mass or accumulation rate did not differ between grasses. Mulato II pastures had a higher tiller population density (822 tillers m−2) and crude protein content (143.5 g kg−1) than Marandu pastures (636 tillers m−2 and 130.3 g kg−1 crude protein). Cows kept on Mulato II exhibited shorter nighttime grazing activity (234 and 246 min in summer and autumn, respectively) than animals kept on Marandu (273 and 394 min, respectively). The average milk yield during the experimental period was higher for Mulato II (15.3 kg cow−1 day−1) compared with Marandu (14.3 kg cow−1 day−1). Both grasses have potential to be used in milk production systems for the grazing management objectives evaluated.

Abstract: Different Urochloa cultivars (Insurgente, Cayman, Cobra and Mulato II) and H-17 bufffelgrass (as control) were evaluated at different regrowth ages (RA) during the maximum and minimum precipitation periods (MAPP and MIPP, respectively). The evaluated variables were total, leaf and stem dry matter (TDM, LDM and SDM, respectively) and specific leaf area (SLA). During the MAPP, Cayman and Mulato II had the highest TDM (9 t DM ha-1), while in the MIPP the control recorded the lowest valué (1.04 vs. 0.79 t DM ha-1). During the MAPP, Mulato II had the highest LDM (8.40 t DM ha-1). SDM increased as the RA increased. Cayman and Mulato II recorded the highest SLA values (199 cm2 g-1, average). Regardless of the period, the TDM, LDM and SDM increased as the RA increased. Cayman and Mulato II are the most promising cultivars due to their high forage accumulation, LDM and SLA.

Resumen: Se evaluaron diferentes cultivares de Urochloa (Insurgente, Cayman, Cobra y Mulato II) y pasto Buffel H-17 (como testigo) a diferente edad de rebrote (ER), durante la época de máxima (EMAP) y mínima precipitación (EMIP). Las variables evaluadas fueron materia seca total (MST), hoja (MSh) y tallo (MSt) y área foliar específica (AFE). Durante la EMAP, Cayman y Mulato II presentaron la mayor MST (9 t MS ha-1); mientras que en EMIP el testigo registró el menor valor (1.04 vs. 0.79 t MS ha-1). Durante EMAP Mulato II presentó mayor MSh (8.40 t MS ha-1). La MSt se incrementó conforme aumentó la ER. Cayman y Mulato II registraron los valores más altos de AFE (199 cm2 g-1). Independientemente de la época, la MST, MSh y MSt se incrementaron conforme se aumentó la ER. Cayman y Mulato II son los cultivares más promisorios por su alta acumulación de forraje, MSh y AFE.

The objective of the study was to evaluate the agroproductive effect of silkworm rearing waste as biofertilizer, combined with earthworm humus and solid ferment of native microorganisms (NM) on Brachiaria hybrid cv. Yacare and Mucuna pruriens. Two trials were conducted: in the first one low doses of biofertilizer in Brachiaria hybrid cv. Yacare were studied; and, from the results, in the second experiment the biofertilizer doses were increased, silkworm rearing waste alone was included and M. pruriens was used. The experimental design was randomized blocks with 15 replicas. The height of cv. Yacare at 30 days tended to be higher in the treatments with biofertilizer. At 60 days all the treatments differed from the control, and silkworm rearing waste + NM surpassed silkworm rearing waste + humus. The production of seeds and dry biomass in silkworm rearing waste + NM (1,25 and 11,33 g, respectively) was higher than in the other combinations and the control (0,62 and 5,65 g). In M. pruriens the emission of branches stood out when applying silkworm rearing waste alone and silkworm rearing waste + humus. The length of the main branch in the control (41,19 cm) differed at 45 days with regards to that of all the fertilized plots (between 82,37 and 92,39 cm). In silkworm rearing waste + NM, with or without humus, the best characteristics of the root system were found at 75 days. It is concluded that the use of biofertilizers obtained from silkworm rearing waste and their combination with NM and humus constitute efficacious practices to improve the agroproductive indicators of B. hybrid cv. Yacare and M. pruriens.

El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar el efecto agroproductivo de la gusanasa como bioabono, combinada con humus de lombriz y con fermentado sólido de microorganismos nativos (MN), sobre Brachiaria híbrido cv. Yacare y Mucuna pruriens. Se realizaron dos experimentos: en el primero se estudiaron dosis bajas de bioabono en B. híbrido cv. Yacare; y, a partir de los resultados, en el segundo experimento se incrementaron las dosis de bioabono, se incluyó la gusanasa sola y se empleó M. pruriens. El diseño experimental fue de bloques al azar con 15 réplicas. La altura del cv. Yacare a los 30 días tendió a ser mayor en los tratamientos con bioabono. A los 60 días todos los tratamientos difirieron del testigo, y gusanasa + MN superó a gusanasa + humus. La producción de semillas y de biomasa seca en gusanasa + MN (1,25 y 11,33 g, respectivamente) fue mayor que en las restantes combinaciones y en el testigo (0,62 y 5,65 g). En M. pruriens la emisión de ramas sobresalió al aplicar gusanasa sola y gusanasa + humus. La longitud de la rama principal en el testigo (41,19 cm) difirió a los 45 días respecto a la de todas las parcelas abonadas (entre 82,37 y 92,39 cm). En gusanasa + MN, con o sin humus, se hallaron las mejores características del sistema radical a los 75 días. Se concluye que el uso de bioabonos obtenidos de gusanasa y su combinación con MN y humus constituyen prácticas eficaces para mejorar los indicadores agroproductivos de B. híbrido cv. Yacare y M. pruriens.

ABSTRACT. Some species of Brachiaria are cultivated in the tropics because of their high productivity and drought resistance; their apomictic hybrids are of interest because of the almost nuil segregation and fixation of the hybrid vigor in seeds. In this research, Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) and Cleaved Amplified Polymorphic Sequence (CAPS) markers were used to differentiate apomictic tetraploid and sexual diploid Brachiaria parents and their progeny. Polymorphism detected with AFLP was 91.3% and with CAPS 79.7%. Phenograms differentiated each genotype and the clustering of parents and their progeny was by their degree of genetic relatedness. AFLP did not separate the apomictic genotypes from the sexual ones, but CAPS markers did so through the C15-8 marker. Some apomictic genotypes of the progeny inherited it from their B. ruziziensis sexual mother, which may be related to some segregating character of the parental line.

RESUMEN. Algunas especies de Brachiaria se cultivan en los trópicos por su alta productividad y resistencia a sequía; sus híbridos apomicticos, son de interés por la casi nula segregación y fijación del vigor híbrido. En este trabajo se utilizaron marcadores Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLPs) y Cleaved Amplified Polymorphic Sequences (CAPS) para diferenciar progenitores apomicticos tetraploides y sexuales diploides de Brachiaria y su progenie. El polimorfismo detectado con AFLPs fue del 91.3% y con CAPS del 79.7%. Los fenogramas diferenciaron a cada genotipo y agrupación de progenitores con la progenie por su grado de parentesco genético. Los AFLPs no separaron a los genotipos apomicticos de los sexuales, pero los CAPS si lo lograron mediante el marcador C15-8; algunos genotipos apomicticos de la progenie, lo heredaron de la madre sexual B. ruziziensis, lo que puede estar relacionado con algún carácter segregante de la línea progenitora.

Resumen En Tailandia se determinó la germinación de semilla de 5 cultivares de forrajeras tropicales: Urochloa híbrido cv. Mulato II, Megathyrsus maximus cv. Mombasa, M. maximus cv. Tanzania, Paspalum atratum cv. Ubon, y Stylosanthes guianensis cv. Ubon stylo, almacenadas bajo condiciones ambientales (temperaturas promedio mensuales 23-34 °C; humedad relativa 40-92%) o controladas en cuarto frío (18-20 °C; 50% humedad relativa) durante 6 años. Mientras en un estudio previo se encontró que bajo condiciones ambientales todas las semillas, excepto las de Ubon stylo no escarificadas con ácido, perdieron su viabilidad después de 1 año de almacenamiento, en este segundo estudio se encontró que el almacenamiento en cuarto frío prolongó su viabilidad, aunque con una alta variabilidad entre especies. La germinación bajó a <50% después de 3 años de almacenamiento para M. maximus cvs. Tanzania y Mombasa, 4 años para Paspalum atratum cv. Ubon y 4-5 años para Urochloa híbrido cv. Mulato II. La semilla de S. guianensis cv. Ubon-stylo mantuvo una alta germinación durante 5 años de almacenamiento tanto en cuarto frío (96%) como bajo condiciones ambientales (85%). La dormancia del embrión en las semillas de cv. Mulato II, escarificadas con ácido, aumentó constantemente con el tiempo de almacenamiento en cuarto frío; por tanto, para romperla fue necesario escarificar la semilla con ácido nuevamente cada año en el momento de la prueba de germinación. De la misma forma, la dormancia física de las semillas del cv. Mulato II impuesta por la lemma y pálea fuertemente unidas en semillas no escarificadas con ácido, no se rompió con el tiempo de almacenamiento en cuarto frío, por lo que fue necesario escarificar con ácido para inducir la germinación. El porcentaje de semilla dura de S. guianensis cv. Ubon-stylo permaneció muy alto durante todo el estudio y la germinación solo se pudo inducir mediante escarificación con ácido. Se discuten las dificultades para mantener la germinación de las semillas y almacenar semilla de forrajeras en el trópico húmedo.

Abstract The germination performances of fresh seed lots were determined for 5 tropical forage species: Mulato II hybrid brachiaria [Urochloa ruziziensis (syn. Brachiaria ruziziensis) x U. decumbens (syn. B. decumbens) x U. brizantha (syn. B. brizantha)], Mombasa guinea [Megathyrsus maximus (syn. Panicum maximum)], Tanzania guinea [M. maximus (syn. P. maximum)], Ubon paspalum (Paspalum atratum) and Ubon stylo (Stylosanthes guianensis), stored under ambient conditions in Thailand (mean monthly temperatures 23-34 °C; mean monthly relative humidity 40-92%) or in a cool room (18-20 °C and 50% relative humidity) for up to 6 years. The first paper of this study showed all seeds, except unscarified Ubon stylo seed, were dead after a single year of storage in ambient conditions. This second paper shows that cool-room storage extended seed viability, but performance varied considerably between species. Germination percentage under laboratory conditions declined to below 50%, after 3 years storage for Mombasa guinea seed and Tanzania guinea seed, 4 years for Ubon paspalum seed and 4-5 years for Mulato II seed. Ubon stylo seed maintained high germination for 5 years, in both cool-room storage (96%) and ambient-room storage (84%). Apparent embryo dormancy in acid-scarified Mulato II seed steadily increased with time in cool-storage and this seed had to be acid-scarified again each year at the time of germination testing to overcome dormancy. Physical dormancy of Mulato II seeds, imposed by the tightly bound lemma and palea in unscarified seed, was not overcome by length of time in cool-storage and these seeds had to be acid-scarified to induce germination. Hardseeded percentage in Ubon stylo seed remained high throughout the study and could be overcome only by acid-scarification. The difficulties of maintaining acceptable seed germination percentages when storing forage seeds in the humid tropics are discussed.