ABSTRACT Biochar can promote crop production and soil quality. However, its characteristics depend on the waste used in its production and its effects may vary according to the species being cultivated and the management adopted. The aim of this study was to evaluate the application of biochar from animal waste on soil quality and the agronomic characteristics of the cowpea. An experiment was set up to test three types of biochar (bovine-BB, swine-SB and poultry-BP), with added fertiliser (BBF, SBF and BPF) and two control treatments, including the addition of calcium magnesium oxide (CT) and calcium magnesium oxide with fertiliser (CTF), giving a total of eight treatments with four replications. There was a respective increase of up to 102.94%, 1048%, 1560% and 360.22% in stem diameter, number of pods, number of grains per pod and stem dry matter from adding the biochar. The poultry biochar increased each of the above parameters even with no added fertiliser. There was no difference in basal soil respiration or β-glucosidase enzyme activity, whereas organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), microbial carbon and soil labile carbon were greater with biochar. BBF gave the highest TOC content (24.40 g kg-1), while BP and BPF increased TN by around 61%. The application of biochar + fertiliser contributed to an average reduction of 56% in the soil metabolic quotient. Poultry biochar favoured both the agronomic characteristics of the cowpea and soil quality, while bovine biochar showed more marked results with the addition of fertiliser. However adopted bovineBB, bovineBB BB, BB (bovine-BB swineSB swine SB poultryBP, poultryBP , poultry-BP) BBF, (BBF CT (CT CTF, CTF (CTF) replications 10294 102 94 102.94% 1048 1048% 1560 36022 360 22 360.22 diameter pods βglucosidase β glucosidase activity TOC, (TOC) TN, (TN) 24.40 2440 24 40 (24.4 kg1, kg1 kg 1 kg-1) 61 61% 56 quotient poultry-BP (CTF 1029 10 9 102.94 104 156 3602 36 2 360.2 (TOC (TN 24.4 244 4 (24. kg-1 6 5 102.9 15 3 360. 24. (24 kg- 102. (2 (

Abstract Introduction. The soil and climatic conditions of Ecuador are ideal for rice cultivation, yields are higher than the world average, but agronomic management leads to an increase of cadmium in the soil, which can reach the grain by translocation, which affects its safety. Objetive. To evaluate the absorption of cadmium through the omission of macronutrients technique in six soils of Ecuador and its effect on the vegetative development of rice crops. Materials and methods. The trial was carried out at the Pichilingue Tropical Experimental Station of the National Institute of Agricultural Research, Ecuador, during 2018. Nine treatments were studied: 1) Without fertilization and without Cd (control 1), 2) without fertilization and with Cd (Control 2), 3) Complete fertilization and six omission treatments of one nutrient at a time, a completely randomized block design of experiments, divided plots and three repetitions was used. The variables evaluated were those related to the production of dry matter in the root and aerial part. For the comparison between means, the Tukey test was used (p<0.05). Results. Nutrients omissions (N and P) led to reduced Cd absorption, which decreased dry matter production, particularly in very acidic or alkaline soils such as in Sucumbíos (pH 4) and Guayas (pH 7, 9), respectively. Conclusions. The absorption of cadmium in rice plants was reduced to a greater extent with the omission of the macronutrients N and P, mainly in the soils of Sucumbíos, Los Ríos, El Oro and Manabí, the nutrient omission technique also affecting the production of dry matter and yields, also observing that a pH below 5 or higher than 7.9 affects the absorption of cadmium in the soils studied.

Resumen Introducción. Las condiciones edafoclimáticas del Ecuador son ideales para el cultivo del arroz, los rendimientos son mayores al promedio mundial, pero su manejo agronómico conlleva a un aumento de cadmio en el suelo, que puede llegar al grano por translocación, lo cual afectan su inocuidad. Objetivo. Evaluar la absorción de cadmio mediante la técnica de omisión de macronutrientes en seis suelos del Ecuador y su efecto sobre el desarrollo vegetativo del cultivo de arroz. Materiales y métodos. El ensayo se realizó en la Estación Experimental Tropical Pichilingue del Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias, Ecuador, durante el año 2018. Se estudiaron nueve tratamientos 1) Sin fertilización y sin Cd (testigo 1), 2) sin fertilización y con Cd (Testigo 2), 3) Fertilización completa y seis tratamientos de omisión de un nutriente a la vez, se usó un diseño de experimentos de bloques completamente al azar, parcelas divididas y tres repeticiones. Las variables evaluadas fueron las relacionadas a la producción de materia seca en raíz y parte aérea. Para la comparación entre medias, se utilizó la prueba de Tukey (p<0,05). Resultados. Las omisiones de los nutrientes (N y P) llevaron a la reducción de la absorción del Cd, que disminuyó la producción de materia seca, en particular en los suelos muy ácidos o alcalinos como en Sucumbíos (pH 4) y Guayas (pH 7,9), respectivamente. Conclusiones. La absorción de cadmio en plantas de arroz se redujo en mayor medida con la omisión de los macronutrientes N y P, principalmente en los suelos de Sucumbíos, Los Ríos, El Oro y Manabí, afectando también la omisión de nutrientes a la producción de materia seca y los rendimientos, observándose además que un pH por debajo de 5 o superior a 7,9 afecta la absorción de cadmio en los suelos estudiados

Abstract Introduction. The cultivation of dragon fruit (Hylocereus costaricensis and H. monocanthus) is increasing in Costa Rica, but technical information for its management, such as nutritional requirements, fertilization timing, and growth behavior, is lacking. Objective. To quantify and model the growth and nutrient uptake of dragon fruit (H. costaricensis and H. monocanthus) under dry tropics conditions in Costa Rica. Materials and methods. The research was conducted from 2017 to 2020 in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Plants were sampled at 76, 165, 308, 450, 607, 903, 1249, and 1706 days after planting (DAP) and 205 fruits were analyzed. Dry matter was quantified, and the uptake of N, P, Ca, Mg, K, S, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, and B was calculated. Two logistic models were fitted to determine nutrient uptake, and linear regressions were calibrated for fresh fruit. Results. For a planting density of 3000 plants/ha, the nutritional requirements per hectare were: 137 kg N, 32 kg P, 327 kg K, 63 kg Mg, 32 kg S, 1,60 kg Zn, and 0,21 kg B. The best-fitting logistic model (RMSE = 0.09) accurately estimated the uptake of N, P, Ca, S, Zn, and B. The linear regression model demonstrated high predictive capacity (R2 > 0.85) for the nutrient requirements of N, P, K, Mg, and S in the fruit. Conclusion. Logistic models provided high precision in deterministically modeling nutrient uptake in dragon fruit plants. The study affectively quantified and modeled the nutritional behavior of the plants under Costa Rica’s dry tropical conditions, providing essential information for optimizing fertilization programs for the crop.

Resumen Introducción. El cultivo de pitahaya (Hylocereus costaricensis y H. monocanthus) está en aumento en Costa Rica, pero carece de información técnica para su manejo, como necesidades nutricionales, momentos de fertilización y comportamiento del crecimiento. Objetivo. Cuantificar y modelar el crecimiento y la absorción de nutrimentos del cultivo de pitahaya (H. costaricensis y H. monocanthus) en condiciones del trópico estacional seco de Costa Rica. Materiales y métodos. La investigación se realizó durante los años 2017-2020, en Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Se muestrearon plantas a los 76, 165, 308, 450, 607, 903, 1249 y 1706 días después de siembra (DDS) y 205 frutas. Se cuantificó la materia seca y se calculó la absorción de N, P, Ca, Mg, K, S, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn y B. Se ajustaron dos modelos logísticos para determinar la absorción de nutrientes y se calibraron regresiones lineales en fruta fresca. Resultados. Para una densidad de siembra de 3000 planta/ha los requerimientos nutricionales del cultivo por hectárea fueron: 137 kg N, 32 kg P, 327 kg K, 63 kg Mg, 32 kg S, 1,60 kg Zn y 0,21 kg B. El modelo logístico de mejor ajuste (RMSE = 0,09) estimó de forma precisa la absorción de N, P, Ca, S, Zn y B. El modelo de regresión lineal tuvo alta capacidad predictora (R2 > 0,85) para los requerimientos de N, P, K, Mg y S en fruta. Conclusión. Los modelos logísticos tuvieron alta precisión para modelar de manera determinística la absorción de nutrientes en plantas de pitahaya. Además, se logró cuantificar y modelar de forma eficiente el comportamiento nutricional de las plantas en condiciones de trópico estacional seco de Costa Rica, lo que proporciona información esencial para los programas de fertilización del cultivo.

Resumen El sistema de producción bovino de doble propósito es el más predominante en el trópico, caracterizado por un sistema de pastoreo extensivo de gramíneas nativas o introducidas con baja digestibilidad y altas concentraciones de carbohidratos estructurales, provocando con esto una baja eficiencia productiva de los sistemas, ante este escenario, es necesario buscar alternativas que mejoren la eficiencia productiva. El objetivo fue evaluar la fermentación anaeróbica y digestibilidad ruminal in vitro de la materia seca (DIVMS) de los ensilados de S. bicolor y C. cajan. En los tratamientos se utilizaron cuatro sustratos (sorgo, sorgo + C. cajan, C. cajan, sorgo + C. cajan + inoculante) y cuatro tiempos de fermentación anaeróbica (0, 30, 60 y 90 días), en un diseño completamente al azar con un arreglo factorial 4x4, con tres repeticiones. El promedio de MS, MO, PC, FDN y FDA fue 373.9±41.43; 960.58±7.59; 87.82±24.95; 588.73±51.17; 371.76±61.39 g kg-1 de MS. Para la DIVMS fue de 56.32±9.05%. Se encontró diferencias significativas (P<0.05) para los parámetros de fermentación y DIVMS. El volumen máximo de gas se presentó en los tratamientos que contenían únicamente sorgo y sorgo + C. cajan + inoculante. Las fracciones de rápida fermentación fueron mayores (P<0.05) en los tratamientos sorgo + C. cajan + inoculante. Las fracciones de fermentación media y lenta fueron mayores en sorgo y sorgo + C. cajan + inoculante. Se concluye que la planta de C. cajan sola o combinada presenta un efecto negativo en la DIVMS.

ABSTRACT The dual-purpose cattle production system is the most predominant in the tropics, characterized by an extensive grazing system of native or introduced grasses with low digestibility and high concentrations of structural carbohydrates, causing with this a low productive efficiency of the systems, in this scenario, it is necessary to look for alternatives that improve productive efficiency. The objective was to evaluate the anaerobic fermentation and rumen digestibility in vitro of dry matter (DIVDM) of silages of S. bicolor and C. cajan. Four substrates (sorghum, sorghum + C. cajan, sorghum + C. cajan + inoculant) and four anaerobic fermentation times (0, 30, 60 and 90 days) were used in the treatments, in a completely randomized design with a 4x4 factorial arrangement, with three replications. The average for DM, OM, CP, NDF and ADF was 373.9±41.43; 960.58±7.59; 87.82±24.95; 588.73±51.17; 371.76±61.39 g kg-1 DM. For DIVDM it was 56.32±9.05 %. Significant differences (P<0.05) were found for fermentation parameters and DIVDM. The maximum volume of gas was presented in treatments containing only sorghum and sorghum + C. cajan + inoculant. The fractions of rapid fermentation were higher (P<0.05) in the treatments sorghum + C. cajan + inoculant. The fractions of medium and slow fermentation were higher in sorghum and sorghum + C. cajan + inoculant. It is concluded that the C. cajan plant alone or combined has a negative effect on DIVDM.

Summary: Avocado is a fruit (Persea americana), that has increased its consumption worldwide. Mexico is the main producer and exporter of avocado in the world, representing more than 30% of the world harvest, of which 73.2% of the total avocado production in Mexico was concentrated in the state of Michoacán. In the state of Michoacán, there is a constant production of avocado fruit throughout the year, but this production is affected by the variation in climate, water management and flowering type, putting agricultural production and sustainable development at risk. The objective of this study was to evaluate the climatic effect, water management, and flowering type on fruit nutrient content in six orchards in the state of Michoacan. Six orchards were evaluated in the towns of Basilia, Cheranguerán, Tecario, Araparicuaro, Peribán and Patamburu in the state of Michoacan, which represent 90% of the climate types (TC), predominant in the state (ACW1, ACW2 and CW1)., with 100% of the water regime (irrigated and seasonal, RH) and 97% of the type of fruit produced (loca and normal, FF). The dry matter contents and total mineral content of the fruit were evaluated. The arrangement of treatments was a factorial [A= water regime (RH); B= type of climate (TC); C= floral flow (FF)], distributed completely randomly with 20 repetitions taking each tree as a repetition. The results indicated that the dry matter content is affected by TC, but not by RH and FF, FF affects the nutritional content more than TC and RH. The type of climate is the factor with the least impact on the mineral content of the fruit. In floral flow, the total nutritional content was significant in four elements with higher values for N, Cl, and Zn in crazy fruit and Na in normal fruit.

Resumen: El aguacate (Persea americana), es un fruto que ha incrementado su consumo a nivel mundial. México es el principal productor y exportador de aguacate en el mundo que representa más del 30% de la cosecha mundial, del cual el 73.2% de la producción total de aguacate en México se concentra en el estado de Michoacán, pero dicha producción es afectada por la variación del clima, poniendo en peligro la producción agrícola y el desarrollo sostenible. El objetivo del fue evaluar el efecto climático, manejo de agua y el tipo de floración sobre el contenido nutrimental del fruto en seis huertas del estado de Michoacán. Se evaluaron seis huertos de las localidades de la Basilia, Cheranguerán, Tecario, Araparicuaro, Peribán y Patamburu del estado de Michoacan, que representan un 90% de los tipos de clima (TC), predominantes en el estado (ACW1, ACW2 y CW2), con un 100% del régimen de agua (riego y temporal, RH) y un 97% del tipo de fruto producido (loca y normal, FF). Se evaluaron los contenidos de materia seca y el contenido mineral total del fruto. El arreglo de tratamientos fue una factorial [A= régimen hídrico (RH); B= tipo de clima (TC); C= flujo floral (FF)], distribuido completamente al azar con 20 repeticiones tomando cada árbol como una repetición. Los resultados indicaron que el contenido de materia seca es afectado por TC, pero no por RH y FF, FF afecta más el contenido nutricional que TC y RH. El tipo de clima es el factor de menor impacto en el contenido mineral del fruto. En flujo floral el contenido nutricional total fue significativo en cuatro elementos con mayor valor para N, Cl, y Zn en fruto loca y Na en fruto normal.

Abstract Introduction: Methanogenic archaea (MA), participate in the anaerobic mineralization of organic matter in mangrove sediments, their activity is related to atmospheric warming due to the production of methane; several environmental variables can influence the presence of MA and methane production in these sediments. Objective: To analyze, through culture-dependent techniques, viable methanogenic archaea (VMA) in the sediments, and the production of methane from acetate in different climatic periods in the mangrove El Morro-La Mancha, Veracruz, Gulf of Mexico. Methods: From May to November 2019, following a salinity transect, sediment samples from El Morro-La Mancha mangrove were collected at three locations, in three different climatic seasons, dry (May), rainy (October) and northern (November) (N = 9). VMA in the sediments was quantified using the Most Probable Number (MPN) technique with acetate and methanol as substrates. The influence of sulfate on methane production was analyzed from acetate in microcosm by gas chromatography and the chemical variables of salinity, pH, Eh, carbohydrates, organic content, and carbonates in the sediments were evaluated. Results: The abundance of VMA was 102 to 108 MPN/g of wet sediment, higher than that reported in other studies, this abundance was higher when methanol (104-108 MPN/g sediment) was used as substrate, compared to acetate (102-105 MPN/g sediment); methane production in the microcosms increased in sulfate-free conditions (29.78-929.75 nmol CH4/month) and in the sediments of the rainy season. Conclusion: The influence of the chemical conditions of the mangrove sediments on the methanogenic dynamics is highlighted, determining that in the rainy season, the decrease in salinity, more electronegative Eh, and the increase in organic fractions favored the methanogenesis.

Resumen Introducción: Las arqueas metanogénicas (MA) participan en la mineralización anaerobia de la materia orgánica en sedimentos de manglar, su actividad está relacionada con el calentamiento atmosférico por la producción de metano; diversas variables ambientales pueden influir en la dinámica metanogénica y la producción de metano en estos sedimentos. Objetivo: Analizar, mediante técnicas dependientes de cultivo, la abundancia de las arqueas metanógenas viables (AMV) y la producción de metano en diferentes épocas climáticas en los sedimentos del manglar El Morro-La Mancha, Veracruz, Golfo de México. Métodos: De mayo a noviembre 2019, siguiendo un transecto de salinidad, se recolectaron sedimentos del manglar del Morro-La Mancha, en tres localidades, abarcando tres diferentes épocas climáticas, secas (mayo), lluvias (octubre) y nortes (noviembre) (N = 9), cuantificándose la abundancia de las AMV mediante la técnica del Número Más Probable (NMP) con acetato y metanol como substratos; la influencia de los sulfatos en la producción de metano a partir de acetato en microcosmos, se analizó por cromatografía de gases y se evaluaron las variables químicas de salinidad, pH, Eh, carbohidratos, contenido orgánico y carbonatos en los sedimentos. Resultados: Se determinó una abundancia de AMV de 102 a 108 NMP/g de sedimento húmedo, superior a la reportada en otros estudios, dicha abundancia se incrementó cuando se utilizó metanol (104-108 NMP/g sedimento) como sustrato, en comparación con el acetato (102-105 NMP/g sedimento); la producción de metano en los microcosmos aumentó en condiciones libres de sulfatos (29.78-929.75 nmol CH4/mes) y en los sedimentos de la temporada de lluvias. Conclusión: Se destaca la influencia de las condiciones químicas de los sedimentos del manglar sobre la dinámica metanógena, determinándose que, en la temporada de lluvias, una disminución de la salinidad, Eh más electronegativos y el incremento de las fracciones orgánicas favorecieron la metanogénesis.

ABSTRACT Inadequate grassland management has resulted in the degradation of extensive areas, loss of productivity and sustainability of many of them, reflecting a common reality among livestock farmers in Colombia. Therefore, at the Paysandú Agricultural Station of the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, located in the Santa Elena township of the city of Medellín, a study was carried out to determine a soil quality index (SQI) by evaluating the physical and chemical indicators that were most related to the deterioration and dry matter production of kikuyu grass (Cenchrus clandestinus). A minimum data set (MDS) was established for the most sensitive indicators, selected by principal component analysis (PCA), and a nonlinear scoring function was used to obtain the SQI. Statistical differences were found between all the treatments in relation to dry matter production (P<0.05: 1.91x10-32). The most sensitive indicators were bulk density BD > total porosity TP > macropores MAC > micropores MIC > penetration resistance PR > effective cation exchange capacity ECEC > pH. As a result, the following formula was obtained: SQI = (0.225×BD) + (0.224×TP) + (0.220×MAC) + (0.218×MIC) + (0.113×PR) + (0.0879×ECEC) + (0.0877×pH). This index should be tested in kikuyu grass-dominated pastures located in the Colombian high tropics. The baseline is critical at values > 0.58 Mg m-3 for BD and > 2.25 MPa for PR. In addition, the optimum pH range for kikuyu grass development was between 5.4 and 6.4.

RESUMEN El manejo inadecuado de los pastizales ha provocado la degradación de extensas áreas, la pérdida de productividad y sostenibilidad de muchas de ellas, reflejando una realidad común entre los ganaderos de Colombia. Por ello, en la Estación Agraria Paysandú de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia, ubicada en el corregimiento de Santa Elena de la ciudad de Medellín, se realizó una investigación para determinar un índice de calidad del suelo (SQI) mediante la evaluación de los indicadores físicos y químicos más relacionados con el deterioro y producción de materia seca del pasto kikuyo (Cenchrus clandestinus). Se estableció un conjunto mínimo de datos (MDS) para los indicadores más sensibles, elegidos mediante el análisis de componentes principales PCA, y se utilizó una función de puntuación no lineal para obtener el SQI. Se encontraron diferencias estadísticas entre todos los tratamientos y la producción de materia seca (P<0,05: 1,91x10-32). Los indicadores más sensibles fueron: densidad aparente DR > porosidad total TP > macroporos MAC > microporos MIC > resistencia a la penetración PR > capacidad de intercambio catiónico efectiva ECEC > pH. Como resultado, se obtuvo el siguiente SQI = (0,225×BD) + (0,224×TP) + (0,220×MAC) + (0,218×MIC) + (0,113×PR) + (0,0879×ECEC) + (0,0877×pH). Se sugiere probar el índice en praderas dominadas por pasto kikuyo ubicadas en el trópico alto colombiano. La línea de base es crítica a valores > 0,58 Mg m-3 para BD y > 2,25 MPa para PR. Además, el intervalo de pH óptimo para el desarrollo del pasto kikuyo se situó entre 5,4 y 6,4.

Abstract Background: Maize landraces show remarkable diversity and environmental adaptability in Mexico. Nevertheless, few studies have explored physiological mechanisms used by different maize landraces to grow and yield in a particular agroecological region. Question: How do three landrace maize populations from contrasting maize races in southeastern Mexico, differ in their responses in terms of growth, chlorophyll fluorescence, and gas exchange? Studied species: Zea mays L. Study site and date: Yucatan, Mexico; 2017. Methods: The field experiment followed a complete randomized block design, with six replicates. Three contrasting maize landraces were evaluated as treatments. Response variables were vegetative traits, dry matter allocation, yield components, and maize physiological responses. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey multiple comparison test (P ≤ 0.05). Results: Maize landraces showed differences in cycle length, plant morphology, and yield performance. The long cycle maize landrace Xnuc-naal, had tall plants that accumulated 17 and 21 % more dry matter than Xmejen-naal and Elotillo, respectively. The short-cycle maize landraces Elotillo and Xmejen-naal exhibit superior physiological responses leading to higher grain yields compared to the Xnuc-naal. Conclusions: The landrace Xnuc-naal stood out for its ability in forage production, whereas Elotillo and Xmejen-naal exhibited notable physiological efficiency in grain production in southeastern Mexico.

Resumen Antecedentes: Las razas nativas de maíz muestran una notable diversidad y adaptabilidad en México. Sin embargo, pocos estudios han explorado los mecanismos fisiológicos utilizados por las diferentes razas de maíz para crecer y producir en una región agroecológica en particular. Pregunta: ¿Cómo difieren en sus respuestas en cuanto a crecimiento, fluorescencia de la clorofila e intercambio de gases tres variedades de maíz que provienen de razas contrastantes del sureste de México? Especie estudiada: Zea mays L. Sitio y fecha del estudio: Yucatán, México; 2017. Métodos: El experimento de campo siguió un diseño de bloques completamente aleatorios, con seis repeticiones. Se evaluaron tres variedades nativas de maíz contrastantes como tratamientos. Las variables de respuesta fueron rasgos vegetativos, distribución de materia seca, componentes del rendimiento y respuestas fisiológicas de las variedades de maíz. Los datos fueron analizados mediante ANOVA de una vía y la prueba de comparación múltiple de Tukey (P ≤ 0.05). Resultados: Las variedades locales de maíz mostraron diferencias en la duración del ciclo, morfología de la planta y rendimiento. La variedad tardía Xnuc-naal, tuvo plantas altas que acumularon un 17 y 21 % más materia seca que Xmejen-naal y Elotillo, respectivamente. Las variedades precoces Elotillo y Xmejen-naal exhibieron una respuesta fisiológica superior que llevó a un rendimiento de grano superior al de Xnuc-naal. Conclusiones: La variedad de maíz Xnuc-naal destacó por su capacidad para la producción de forraje, mientras que Elotillo y Xmejen-naal demostraron una eficiencia fisiológica notable en la producción de grano en el sureste de México.

ABSTRACT This research aimed to assess the impact of applying mountain microorganisms (MM) on coffee seedling production. Two nurseries (A and B) were used with weekly and bi-weekly treatment applications. Plant height, leaf and root lengths, and dry matter content (DM) were measured. Results showed that Nursery A, with weekly treatments, exhibited greater height and leaf length growth compared to Nursery B. In the initial measurement, Nursery A accumulated more leaf DM than Nursery B. However, over time, both nurseries experienced a decline in DM. Root length variability was observed in both nurseries throughout the measurements. Treatments with MM from forest and coffee systems in Nursery A showed higher leaf DM accumulation in the initial measurement. In conclusion, MM application, especially with higher frequency, promoted coffee seedling growth. The results emphasize the need for detailed analysis to understand optimal root development conditions. The decline in DM over time is a natural response to active growth, indicating increased nutritional requirements. These findings support MM-based strategies for sustainable coffee seedling production.

RESUMEN La investigación tuvo como objetivo evaluar el efecto de la aplicación de microorganismos de montaña (MM) en la producción de plántulas de café. Se utilizaron dos viveros (A y B) con aplicaciones de tratamientos semanales y quincenales. Se midió la altura de las plantas, la longitud de las hojas y raíces, así como el contenido de materia seca (MS). Los resultados mostraron que el Vivero A, con tratamientos semanales, tuvo un mayor crecimiento en altura y longitud de hojas en comparación con el Vivero B. En la primera medición, el Vivero A acumuló más MS foliar que el Vivero B. Sin embargo, a medida que avanzaba el tiempo, ambos viveros experimentaron una disminución en el MS. En la longitud de las raíces, se observó variabilidad en ambos viveros a lo largo de las mediciones. Los tratamientos con MM de bosque y café en el Vivero A mostraron una mayor acumulación de MS foliar en la primera medición. En conclusión, la aplicación de MM, especialmente con mayor frecuencia, promovió el crecimiento de las plántulas de café. Los resultados muestran la necesidad de análisis detallados para comprender las condiciones óptimas para el desarrollo de raíces. La disminución del MS con el tiempo es una respuesta natural al crecimiento activo y por tanto el aumento del requerimiento nutricional de las plántulas. Estos resultados respaldan estrategias basadas en MM para una producción sostenible de plántulas de café.

ABSTRACT Residues generated in sugarcane production such as biochar, originated from bagasse burning, are used as a fertilizer source, which can increase forage dry matter yield, as well as improving soil chemical attributes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of using biochar from sugarcane bagasse burning and mineral fertilization, as well as their association, on the dry matter yield of Urochloa decumbens and on the chemical attributes of the soil. The design was randomized blocks, which consisted of eight treatments and four blocks. The treatments were: T1- mineral fertilization; T2- fertilization with limestone plus mineral fertilizer; T3- liming; T4- biochar; T5- biochar plus mineral fertilizer; T6- liming plus biochar; T7- double fertilization with biochar and T8- control. Association of mineral fertilizer and biochar was able to increase dry matter yield by up to 131% when compared to the control treatment during the first year. The use of fertilization strategies in the restoration of degraded area under U. decumbens does not interfere with soil chemical attributes, except for sulfur. source association blocks were T1 T T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 131 year U sulfur 13 1

RESUMO Resíduos gerados pela produção de cana-de-açúcar como o biochar, proveniente da queima do bagaço podem ser utilizados como fonte de fertilizante, podendo incrementar a produção de matéria seca de forrageira, bem como, dos atributos químicos do solo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a utilização de biochar da queima do bagaço da cana-de-açúcar e da adubação mineral e associação de ambos, na produtividade de matéria seca de Urochloa decumbens, e nos atributos químicos do solo. O delineamento utilizado foi em blocos casualizados, composto por oito tratamentos, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram: T1- adubação mineral; T2- adubação com calcário + fertilizante mineral; T3- calagem; T4- biochar; T5- biochar + adubação mineral; T6- calagem + biochar; T7- duas vezes a dose com biochar e T8- controle. A associação de fertilizante mineral com biochar foi capaz de aumentar a produção de matéria seca em até 131% quando comparado ao tratamento controle no primeiro ano. O emprego de diferentes estratégias de fertilização na recuperação de área degradada sob uso de Urochloa decumbens, não interfere nos atributos químicos do solo, com exceção do elemento enxofre. canadeaçúcar cana açúcar forrageira solo ambos decumbens casualizados repetições foram T1 T T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 131 ano enxofre 13 1

Abstract The use of silage is considered as a feeding strategy in animal production systems with ruminants during dry periods. The objective was to evaluate the yield and nutritive value in forage and silage of Mulato II grass (Urochloa hybrid) and two additives, at different regrowth ages. Ages of 3, 6 and 9 weeks and additives (orange peel and molasses) were evaluated in silages: 1) Mulato II (ME); 2) Mulato II + orange peel; 3) Mulato II + molasses and 4) Mulato II + orange peel + molasses. The variables were: yield (kg ha-1) of total dry matter (TDM) and by morphological component, plant height (PH, cm), leaf area index (LAI), CP, NDF, ADF and lignin in forage and silage; pH, brix degrees and DM (%) in silage. When the forage was harvested at nine weeks of regrowth, the highest DM yield was obtained (7 508 kg ha-1), while the CP content was higher in week three of regrowth (201 g kg-1), exceeding by 10 and 29% that found in the sixth and ninth weeks. The silages with additives presented the highest CP values and the lowest values of ADF, NDF and pH. The higher the age of regrowth, the higher the dry matter yields, while the nutritive value decreased; however, the use of orange peel and molasses in grass silages improved the nutritive value.

Resumen El uso de ensilados es considerado como estrategia de alimentación en los sistemas de producción animal con rumiantes en periodos de estiaje. El objetivo fue evaluar el rendimiento y valor nutritivo en forraje y ensilado de pasto Mulato II (Urochloa híbrido) y dos aditivos, a diferente edad de rebrote. Se evaluaron edades de 3, 6 y 9 semanas y aditivos (cáscara de naranja y melaza) en ensilados: 1) Mulato II (ME); 2) Mulato II + cáscara de naranja; 3) Mulato II + melaza y 4) Mulato II + cáscara de naranja + melaza, mediante un diseño de bloques completos al azar. Las variables fueron: rendimiento (kg ha-1) de materia seca total (MST) y por componente morfológico, altura de planta (AP, cm), índice de área foliar (IAF), PC, FDN, FDA y lignina en forraje y ensilado; pH, grados brix y MS (%) en ensilados. Al cosechar el forraje a la edad de rebrote de nueve semanas se obtuvo el mayor rendimiento de MS (7 508 kg ha-1), mientras que, el contenido de PC fue mayor en la semana tres de rebrote (201 g kg-1), superando en 10 y 29% a lo encontrado en la sexta y novena semana. Los ensilados con aditivos presentaron los valores mayores de PC y menores de FDA, FDN y pH. A mayor edad de rebrote se obtienen mayores rendimientos de MS, pero el valor nutritivo disminuye, sin embargo, el uso de la cáscara de naranja y melaza en ensilados de pasto mejora el valor nutritivo.

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study is the determination some quality parameters of grape and mulberry pestils (leathers) sold in Elazig. For this purpose, a total of 45 fruit pestil samples, of which 23 were grape pestils and 22 were mulberry pestils, were analyzed for their physical properties, chemical properties, and microbiological characteristics. In grape and mulberry pestils, the average L* (lightness/darkness) values were 42.72 and 44.81, a* (redness) values were 10.29 and 9.07, and b* (yellow) values were 20.90 and 20.90, respectively. In grape and mulberry fruit pestil samples, the thickness values were 1.62 and 1.34, pH values were 3.82 and 4.75, acidity values (as citric acid) were 0.63 and 0.22%, aw values were 0.602 and 0.627, dry matter values were 68.78% and 72.99 %, ash values were 2.25% and 0.64%, insoluble ash values in 10% HCl were 0.20 and 0.29, and Brix values were 18.83 and 19.36, respectively. TMAB, coliform, Staphylococcus-Micrococcus, and yeast-mold counts were found to be 4.72 and 4.48, 1.30 and 1.89, 2.11 and 2.12, and 2.04 and 2.11 log10 cfu/g, respectively, in all samples examined. In 14 of the samples (31.11%), the total number of mesophilic aerobic microorganisms was found to be >5 log10 cfu/g. Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. were not found in any of the samples. However, the samples were found to contain significant levels of yeast-mold. There was no difference between the groups in microbiological terms in statistical analysis (P > 0.05). According to the current study, there was no standard production and not enough hygiene rules were observed in the pestil production process in family businesses in Elazig. On the other hand, essential information was obtained on some physical, chemical and microbiological quality parameters of grape and blackberry pulps sold in markets and stores in Elazig. ABSTRACT leathers (leathers Elazig purpose 4 2 properties characteristics L lightness/darkness lightnessdarkness lightness darkness (lightness/darkness 4272 42 72 42.7 4481 44 81 44.81 redness (redness 1029 10 29 10.2 907 9 07 9.07 b yellow (yellow 2090 20 90 20.9 respectively 162 1 62 1.6 134 34 1.34 382 3 82 3.8 475 75 4.75 as acid 063 0 63 0.6 022 0.22% 0602 602 0.60 0627 627 0.627 6878 68 78 68.78 7299 99 72.9 % 225 25 2.25 064 64 0.64% 020 0.2 029 0.29 1883 18 83 18.8 1936 19 36 19.36 TMAB coliform StaphylococcusMicrococcus, StaphylococcusMicrococcus Staphylococcus Micrococcus, Micrococcus Staphylococcus-Micrococcus yeastmold yeast mold 472 4.7 448 48 4.48 130 30 1.3 189 89 1.89 211 11 2.1 212 12 2.12 204 04 2.0 log log1 cfug cfu g cfu/g examined 31.11%, 3111 31.11% , 31 (31.11%) 5 spp However yeastmold. mold. P 0.05. 005 0.05 . 05 0.05) hand 427 7 42. 8 44.8 102 10. 9.0 209 20. 16 6 1. 13 38 3. 47 06 0. 02 0.22 060 60 062 0.62 687 68.7 729 72. 2.2 0.64 188 18. 193 19.3 4. 4.4 1.8 21 2. 311 31.11 (31.11% 00 0.0 44. 9. 68. 19. 31.1 (31.11 31. (31.1 (31. (31 (3 (

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo é a determinação de alguns parâmetros de qualidade de pestilos de uva e amoreira (couros) vendidos em Elazig. Para tanto, um total de 45 amostras de pestil de frutas, sendo 23 de uva e 22 de amoreira, foram analisadas quanto às suas propriedades físicas, químicas e microbiológicas. Em pestils de uva e amoreira, os valores médios de L* (claridade/escuridão) foram 42.72 e 44.81, os valores de a* (vermelhidão) foram 10.29 e 9.07, e os valores de b* (amarelo) foram 20.90 e 20.90, respectivamente. Nas amostras de pestil de uva e amoreira, os valores de espessura foram 1.62 e 1.34, os valores de pH foram 3.82 e 4.75, os valores de acidez (como ácido cítrico) foram 0.63 e 0.22%, os valores de aw foram 0,602 e 0.627, os valores de matéria seca foram 68.78% e 72.99%, os valores de cinzas foram 2.25% e 0.64%, os valores de cinzas insolúveis em HCl a 10% foram 0.20 e 0.29, e os valores Brix foram 18.83 e 19.36, respectivamente. As contagens de TMAB, coliformes, Staphylococcus-Micrococcus e fungos de levedura foram 4.72 e 4.48, 1.30 e 1.89, 2.11 e 2.12 e 2.04 e 2.11 log10 ufc/g, respectivamente, em todas as amostras examinadas. Em 14 das amostras (31.11%), o número total de microrganismos aeróbios mesófilos foi >5 log10 ufc/g. Escherichia coli e Salmonella spp. não foram encontrados em nenhuma das amostras. No entanto, verificou-se que as amostras continham níveis significativos de bolor de levedura. Não houve diferença entre os grupos em termos microbiológicos na análise estatística (P > 0,05). De acordo com o estudo atual, não houve produção padrão e não foram observadas regras de higiene suficientes no processo de produção de pestil em empresas familiares em Elazig. Por outro lado, foram obtidas informações essenciais sobre alguns parâmetros físicos, químicos e microbiológicos de qualidade das polpas de uva e amora-preta comercializadas em mercados e lojas de Elazig. RESUMO couros (couros Elazig tanto 4 frutas 2 físicas microbiológicas L claridade/escuridão claridadeescuridão claridade escuridão (claridade/escuridão 4272 42 72 42.7 4481 44 81 44.81 vermelhidão (vermelhidão 1029 10 29 10.2 907 9 07 9.07 b amarelo (amarelo 2090 20 90 20.9 respectivamente 162 1 62 1.6 134 34 1.34 382 3 82 3.8 475 75 4.75 como cítrico 063 0 63 0.6 022 0.22% 0602 602 0,60 0627 627 0.627 6878 68 78 68.78 7299 99 72.99% 225 25 2.25 064 64 0.64% 020 0.2 029 0.29 1883 18 83 18.8 1936 19 36 19.36 TMAB coliformes StaphylococcusMicrococcus Staphylococcus Micrococcus 472 4.7 448 48 4.48 130 30 1.3 189 89 1.89 211 11 2.1 212 12 204 04 2.0 log log1 ufcg ufc g ufc/g examinadas 31.11%, 3111 31.11% , 31 (31.11%) 5 spp entanto verificouse verificou se P 0,05. 005 0,05 . 05 0,05) atual lado físicos amorapreta amora preta 427 7 42. 8 44.8 102 10. 9.0 209 20. 16 6 1. 13 38 3. 47 06 0. 02 0.22 060 60 0,6 062 0.62 687 68.7 729 72.99 2.2 0.64 188 18. 193 19.3 4. 4.4 1.8 21 2. 311 31.11 (31.11% 00 0,0 44. 9. 0, 68. 72.9 19. 31.1 (31.11 72. 31. (31.1 (31. (31 (3 (

Irrigation is required to supplement rainfall to enhance the productivity of chickpea in South Africa (SA). However, the dependence on irrigation can be problematic for SA and other countries with limited natural water resources and variable rainfall. Even though access to irrigation water has been identified as one of the challenges faced when planting chickpea in the winter season in SA, irrigation management strategies for chickpea grown on soils differing in texture have not gained considerable research attention. Hence, this study aimed to assess the effects of irrigation levels on dry matter production of chickpea grown on two soils differing in soil texture under greenhouse conditions. The experiment was arranged as a 3 × 2 factorial in a completely randomized design, with 3 irrigation levels (25%, 50% and 75% of the water-holding capacity of soil (WHC)) and 2 soils differing in soil textural class (Loamy sand (LS) soil and sandy loam (SL) soil), replicated thrice. Irrigation level, soil texture and their interaction significantly affected shoot biomass (SBM) and total plant biomass (TBM). Generally, SBM, TBM and root biomass decreased correspondingly with the reduction in irrigation. The 25% WHC significantly reduced the SBM by up to 60% and TBM by up to 56% compared to the 50% and 75% WHC. The SBM and TBM were higher in SL soil than in LS soil. A significantly higher root/shoot ratio (0.45) in the LS soil than in the SL soil (0.16) indicated that the conditions of LS soil encouraged plants to allocate higher proportions of biomass into roots, possibly due to increased competition for soil resources. In conclusion, maintaining soil moisture at 50% WHC ensures better chickpea dry matter production in SL soil.

Abstract Introduction. The amount of usable water is currently limited due to the deterioration of its sources and indiscriminate use. An alternative to this problem is producing under green houses, where it is possible to obtain better water use efficiency (WUE) by reducing crop evapotranspiration (ETc) without compromising its productive potential. Objective. To evaluate the effect of 3 levels of volumetric moisture content depletion in coir on the vegetative-generative behavior of hydroponic tomato and sweet pepper produced under greenhouse cultivation. Materials and methods. The study was conducted during August to December 2020 and January 2021, at Estación Experimental Agrícola Fabio Baudrit Moreno, Alajuela, Costa Rica. Three treatments were applied: 11, 22 and 32% of water depletion in the substrate. Morphophysiological and reproductive parameters such as: the leaf area (AF), the number of leaves (NH), width (AH) and length of the leaf (LH), the length (LT) and the diameter of the stem (DT), the number of nodes (NN), dry matter (DM), stomatal conductance (gs), crop evapotranspiration (ETc), water use efficiency (WUE), the total yield (Rt), the commercial (Rc) of first (F1), second (F2) and third (F3) and waste fruits (Fd) were evaluated. Results. In the tomato treatments (TT) there was no effect on NH, LT, LH and NN; on the other hand, differences were reported in AH, DT and in MS, with treatment TT11 obtaining the higher values. The sweet pepper (TC), the treatment TC11 was statistically superior to the other treatments in number (NH), width (AH) and length (LH) of the leaf, in number of nodes (NN), production of fresh (MF) and dry matter (MS) and in diameter of the stem (DT), while there were no differences between treatments in stem length (LT). There were no differences in ETc and Rt, for both crops, but there was a difference in the commercial yield once it was divided by quality of fruit, TT11 presented the highest production of first and second fruit quality, while treatment TC11 presented the highest production of first, second and third fruit quality. For both crops, there were significant differences between treatments in terms of stomatal conductance. TT11 and TC11 treatments obtained the highest value of EUA with 37.32 kg.m-3 and 21.46 kg.m-3, respectively. Conclusion. In both crops, treatments with 11 and 22% water depletion showed an adequate balance between vegetative and productive growth, which was reflected in greater production of better quality commercial fruits, less waste and greater WUE.

Resumen Introducción. El uso de agua dulce en agricultura se encuentra limitado debido al deterioro de sus fuentes y su uso indiscriminado. El riego deficitario en agricultura protegida es una alternativa para mejorar la eficiencia en el uso del agua, a través de la reducción de la evapotranspiración del cultivo, sin comprometer su potencial productivo. Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto de 3 niveles de agotamiento del contenido de humedad volumétrica en un sustrato de fibra de coco, sobre el comportamiento vegetativo-generativo de los cultivos de tomate y chile dulce hidropónicos en invernadero. Materiales y métodos. El estudio se realizó en la Estación Experimental Agrícola Fabio Baudrit Moreno, Alajuela, Costa Rica. En ambos cultivos se aplicaron 3 tratamientos con 11, 22 y 32% de agotamiento hídrico en el sustrato, en un diseño experimental en bloques completos al azar. Se evaluaron parámetros morfofisiológicos y productivos tales como área foliar (AF), número de hojas (NH), ancho (AH) y longitud de hoja (LH), longitud (LT) y diámetro del tallo (DT), número de nudos (NN), materia seca (MS), conductancia estomática (gs), evapotranspiración del cultivo (ETc), eficiencia de uso de agua (EUA), rendimiento de fruto comercial (Rc) de primera (F1), segunda (F2) y tercera (F3), fruto de desecho (Fd) y rendimiento total (Rt). Resultados. En los tratamientos en tomate (TT) no hubo efecto sobre el NH, LH, LT y NN; mientras que con TT11 se obtuvieron valores superiores en AH, DT y MS. En chile dulce (TC), el TC11 obtuvo mayor NH, AH, LH, NN, DT y MS que los demás tratamientos; mientras que no hubo diferencias entre tratamientos en LT. En ambos cultivos, no hubo efecto sobre la ETc y el Rt, sin embargo, con 11% de agotamiento se obtuvo mayor producción comercial de F1 y F2 por lo que consecuentemente hubo mayor EUA con 37,32 kg.m-3 y 21,46 kg.m-3, respectivamente. Para ambos cultivos, la gs fue diferente entre tratamientos. Conclusión. En ambos cultivos, los tratamientos con 11 y 22% de agotamiento hídrico evidenciaron un adecuado balance entre crecimiento vegetativo y productivo, que se reflejó en mayor producción de frutos comerciales de mejor calidad, menos desecho y mayor EUA.

ABSTRACT The agricultural productions in the Pampas Region (PR) have led to the depletion of exchangeable bases and soil acidification due to the extraction of nutrients without replenishment and the excessive use of fertilizers. Such issue has been addressed in tropical areas but has not been thoroughly investigated in temperate regions despite its effects on leguminous crops. The use of amendments and calcium-based fertilizers has shown variable results in the PR, highlighting the complexity of the practice. The use of fertilizers might be a conjuctural solution to the use of amendments. The objective of this study was to evalua te calcium fertilizers and amendments on 1) forage soybean aerial biomass dry matter production (DM), calcium (Ca) concentration (CCaB) and magnesium (Mg) concentration (CMgB), and Ca export (ECaB) and Mg export (EMgB), 2) physicochemical and chemical soil properties, and 3) Ca balance (BCaS) in Mollisols from the province of Buenos Aires. A greenhouse trial was conducted with soybean from two sites (Bellocq and Inchausti). Four treatments were applied: 50 kg Ca ha-1 (F50) 100 kg Ca ha-1 (F100), 1500 kg CaCO3 ha-1 (C1500), and a control without products (T). The use of 100 kg ha-1 of Ca with fertilizer increased soybean DM associated with an increase in values of 4 meq l-1 of Ca in the soil soluble-available fraction (CaExt). CCaB and CMgB in soybean showed differences only between soils. BCaS depended solely on DM production. BCaS was negative only in the control treatment. These results are essential for understanding the dynamics of basic nutrients in PR soils, whose levels are decreasing due to negative balances, thus leading to soil acidification. Additionally, they could be used in site-specific soil management approaches, supported by the extensive precision agriculture technologies available. Furthermore, they showed that CaExt could be an indicator of calcium sufficiency.

RESUMEN Las producciones agropecuarias en la Región Pampeana (RP) han generado la reducción de bases y acidificación de suelos por extracción sin reposición de nutrientes y elevado uso de fertilizantes. Esta problemática en zonas templadas no ha sido estudiada minuciosamente como en zonas tropicales, afectando principalmente a cultivos de leguminosas. El uso de correctores y fertilizantes cálcicos ha demostrado resultados variables en la RP, evidenciando la complejidad de la práctica. El uso de fertilizantes podría ser una práctica coyuntural al uso de correctores. El objetivo fue evaluar fertilizantes y enmiendas cálcicas en suelos de la provincia de Buenos Aires sobre 1) producción de materia seca (MS) de biomasa aérea, concentración de calcio (Ca) (CCaB) y magnesio (Mg) (CMgB) y exportación de Ca (ECaB) y Mg (EMgB) de soja forrajera, 2) propiedades fisicoquímicas y químicas del suelo y 3) balance de calcio (BCaS). Se realizó un ensayo en invernáculo sobre soja en suelos de Bellocq e Inchausti con 50 kg ha-1 y 100 kg ha-1 de Ca como fertilizante, 1500 kg ha-1 de caliza (C1500) y un tratamiento testigo sin productos (T). El uso de 100 kg ha-1 de Ca con fertilizante incrementó la MS de soja asociado al incremento a valores de 4 meq l-1 de Ca en la fracción soluble-disponible del suelo (CaExt). La CCaB y CMgB en soja mostraron diferencias solamente entre suelos. La ECaS dependió exclusivamente de la producción de MS. El BCaS fue negativo solamente en el tratamiento donde no se aplicó producto. Estos resultados son importantes para entender la dinámica de nutrientes básicos en suelos de la RP, cuyos niveles en suelo están disminuyendo debido a los balances negativos, que incluso han generado acidificación de suelos. Además, podrían ser utilizados en planteos de manejo sitio-específico del suelo, garantizados por las amplias tecnologías disponibles relacionadas con la agricultura de precisión. Asimismo, mostraron que el CaExt podría ser un indicador de suficiencia cálcica.