Resumo A pitaia vermelha (Hylocereus costaricensis) é uma promissora espécie, com elevado potencial de cultivo devido às qualidades organolépticas e funcionais de seus frutos. Entretanto, a salinidade da água de irrigação pode afetar o rendimento produtivo da cultura. Diante disso, materiais ricos em substâncias orgânicas podem minimizar os danos provocados pelo excesso de sais no solo e/ou na água. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência de fontes de matéria orgânica como atenuante do estresse salino na produção e respostas bioquímicas de mudas de pitaia vermelha. O delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 4 × 5, com cinco fontes de matéria orgânica (húmus, esterco ovino, biofertilizante, composto orgânico e areia + solo) e quatro salinidade (0.6, 2.6, 4.6 e 6.6 dS m-1), com quatro repetições e duas plantas por vaso foi utilizado. O comprimento da parte aérea, comprimento da raiz, diâmetro do cladódio, número de cladódios, número de brotos, volume da raiz, massa seca da parte aérea, massa seca da raiz e massa seca total, razão da massa seca da raiz e da parte aérea, clorofila a, b e total, aminoácidos e os açúcares solúveis foram avaliados aos 120 dias após o início da aplicação dos tratamentos. A pitaia vermelha é moderadamente tolerante a salinidade. O composto orgânico e estrume ovino atenuam os efeitos nocivos da salinidade nas mudas de pitaia vermelha. Sob condições de estresse salino, as plantas aumentam os níveis de aminoácidos e açúcares totais.

Abstract Red pitaya (Hylocereus costaricensis) is a promising species, with high cultivation potential due to the organoleptic and functional qualities of its fruits. However, irrigation water salinity can affect the crop yield. Therefore, materials rich in organic substances can minimize the damage caused by excess salts in soil and/or water. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of organic matter sources as attenuators of salt stress on the production and biochemical responses of red pitaya seedlings. A completely randomized design in 4 × 5 factorial scheme, with five sources of organic matter (humus, sheep manure, biofertilizer, organic compost and sand + soil) and four salinities (0.6, 2.6, 4.6 and 6.6 dS m-1) with four replicates and two plants per plot was used. The shoot length, root length, cladode diameter, number of cladodes, number of sprotus, root volume, shoot dry mass, root dry mass and total dry mass, root and shoot dry mass ratio, chlorophyll a, b and total, amino acids and soluble sugars were evaluated at 120 days after the treatments began to be applied. Red pitaya is moderately tolerant to salinity (ECw from 4.0 to 6.0 dS m-1). Organic compost and sheep manure attenuate the harmful effects of salinity on red pitaya seedlings. Under salt stress conditions, red pitaya plants increase their levels of proline, amino acids and total sugars.

Resumen Las tasas de crecimiento y urbanización de las ciudades pronostican el aumento de residuos. En los países en desarrollo la fracción orgánica representa aproximadamente la mitad del total de residuos generados; esta fracción genera lixiviados, gases tóxicos y la aparición de vectores. El compostaje es la alternativa más sencilla y económica para la recuperación de los residuos orgánicos. En este estudio se evaluó la calidad de dos compost elaborados con residuos orgánicos (CRO) y heces de mascota (CM). La pregunta de investigación analizó el efecto de estos abonos en la germinación y crecimiento de hortalizas seleccionadas. Se determinaron los principales parámetros de calidad y se diseñaron tratamientos con diferentes mezclas de CRO y CM. Los abonos evaluados se encuentran en su mayoría dentro de los parámetros de calidad. El porcentaje de germinación del CRO (18 %) y del CM (10 %) fue menor al requerido (80 %); y el CM excedió (1100 NMP/g) el máximo recomendado de coliformes totales (1000 NMP/g). La germinación fue mayor CRO y CM al 25 % (84 % en ambos casos). En los ensayos de crecimiento el control finalizó con mayor altura (13.88 cm), seguido del CRO al 10 % (13.22 cm) y CM al 25 % (11.50cm). Los resultados demuestran el potencial de los residuos orgánicos urbanos, incluyendo los desechos de mascotas, para el compostaje y sus efectos beneficiosos en el crecimiento de las plantas.

Abstract The rates of urban growth and urbanization indicate a projected increase in waste generation. In developing countries, the organic fraction constitutes approximately half of the total waste, leading to the production of leachate, toxic gases, and the emergence of vectors. Composting emerges as a straightforward and cost-effective solution for organic waste recovery. This study focused on evaluating the quality of compost derived from organic waste (CRO) and pet feces (CM). The research aimed to investigate the impact of these composts on the germination and growth of selected vegetables. The primary quality parameters were assessed, and different mixtures of CRO and CM were implemented as experimental treatments. The majority of the fertilizers examined complied with the quality standards. However, the germination percentage of CRO (18 %) and CM (10 %) fell below the required threshold (80 %), and CM surpassed the recommended maximum level of total coliforms (1100 NMP/g compared to the recommended 1000 NMP/g). Notably, a higher germination percentage (84 %) was observed for both CRO and CM at a 25 % compost addition. In terms of growth trials, the control group exhibited the tallest plants (13.88 cm), followed by the 10 % CRO treatment (13.22 cm) and the 25 % CM treatment (11.50 cm). The findings underscore the potential of urban organic waste, including pet waste, for composting and its positive impact on plant growth.

Summary: Organic fertilizers are a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilizers that cause contamination of natural resources. The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy of native microorganisms (ENM) and compost on yield and profitability on the cultivation of quinoa variety INIA 415-Pasankalla in three altitudinal levels (Faical 1935 m altitude, Lagunas Amarillas 2328 m altitude and Cascapampa 2995 m altitude). Five treatments were evaluated: T0 (control), T1 (MEN 2.5%), T2 (MEN 5.0%), T3 (MEN 2.5%+0.9 kg compost m-1) and T4 (MEN 5.0%+1.8 kg compost m-1), considering: PA (plant height), RHa (yield per hectare), RPa (yield plant-1), PP (panicle weight), PMG (thousand kernel weight) and DT (stem diameter). In addition, the benefit/cost per treatment was analyzed. A principal component analysis (PCA), three-way ANOVA comparison and correlation analysis were performed. The PCA yielded two components (C1 and C2) explaining 97.20% of the variability of the study. Component 1 (78.46%) explained the greatest variability and grouped the variables: G-I (AP, DT), G-II (RHa, Rpa, PP). Treatments T4 and T3 showed the best results in relation to altitude: Lagunas Amarillas-T4 with G-I and Cascapampa-T4 with G-II showed the highest study values. However, Cascapampa-T2 was the most profitable (b/c= 5,68). The combined mixture of organic inputs made from local raw materials and applied in foliar form, and the soils present in T4, improved the yields and profitability of the quinoa crop in relation to altitude.

Resumen: Los abonos orgánicos son una alternativa sostenible con el agroecosistema frente a los fertilizantes convencionales causantes de la contaminación de los recursos naturales. El objetivo fue determinar la eficacia de los microorganismos eficientes nativos (MEN) y de compost sobre el rendimiento y rentabilidad en el cultivo de quinua variedad INIA 415-Pasankalla en tres pisos altitudinales (Faical 1935 m de altitud, Lagunas Amarillas 2328 m de altitud. y Cascapampa 2995 m de altitud). Se evaluaron cinco tratamientos: T0 (testigo), T1 (MEN 2.5%), T2 (MEN 5.0%), T3 (MEN 2.5%+0.9 kg compost m-1) y T4 (MEN 5.0%+1.8 kg compost m-1), evaluando: AP (altura de planta), RHa (rendimiento hectárea-1), RPa (rendimiento planta-1), PP (peso de panoja), PMG (peso de mil granos) y DT (diámetro de tallo). Además, se analizó el beneficio/costo por tratamiento. Se realizó un análisis de componentes principales ACP, una comparación triple de ANOVA y un análisis de correlación. Con el ACP se obtuvo dos componentes (C1 y C2) explicando el 97.20% de la variabilidad del estudio. El Componente 1 (78.46%) explica la mayor variabilidad y agrupó variables: G-I (AP, DT), G-II (RHa, Rpa, PP). Los tratamientos T4 y T3 presentaron los mejores resultados en relación a la altitud: Lagunas Amarillas-T4 con G-I y Cascapampa-T4 con G-II presentaron los mayores valores del estudio. No obstante, Cascapampa-T2 fue el más rentable (b/c= 5.68). La mezcla combinada de los insumos orgánicos elaborados a partir de materias primas locales y aplicados en forma foliar y suelos presentes en T4, mejoró los rendimientos y la rentabilidad del cultivo de quinua en relación a la altitud.

Summary: Swiss chard is a horticultural crop with a highly nutritious value. These crops’ production required nutrients, which can be provided through mineral nutrient solutions or biofertilizers. Biofertilizers are products that contain beneficial microorganisms that improve soil quality and that promote plant growth. Additionally, these microorganisms carry out nitrogen fixation and phosphate solubilization. The present work assessed the application of compost tea, co-inoculation (Azospirillum and Glomus), and inorganic fertilizer over the growth (roots, stem, and leaves) and nutrient content in Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris var. Forhook Giant) plants. The present work was carried out in a greenhouse using a randomized complete block design. Swiss chard plants treated with compost tea + inorganic fertilization (CTIF) accumulated more root and stem dry weight (4.06 and 8.10 g respectively), and, on the other hand, the leaf dry weight increased under three treatments: inorganic fertilization (IF), compost tea + co-inoculation (CTCi) and CTIF (12.5, 9.22 and 10.5 g respectively). Leaf area was greater in the IF and CTIF treatments. In Control (C) P and Mg content were higher; CTCi treatment increased the N, K, and Mn content; the co-inoculation (Ci) treatment increased Cu content as well as CTIF treatment increased the Ca, Fe, Zn, and B contents and in a lesser extent also the P, Mg, Cu, and Mn contents. The biomass partitioning coefficient indicates that in six samples (from a total of seven samples), most of the photosynthates (PS) were used by the plants to form new leaves or to increase the size of the leaves. If an alternative method of fertilization is desired, it is recommended that a combination of biofertilizer and inorganic fertilization should be used, such as, the combination of compost tea and mineral solution that increased the production and the concentration of nutrients in the Swiss chard crop.

Resumen: La acelga es un cultivo hortícola de alto valor nutritivo y en México se producen más de 12 mil toneladas al año. Para su producción, estos cultivos requieren nutrientes, los cuales pueden ser aportados a través de soluciones de nutrientes minerales o biofertilizantes. Los biofertilizantes son productos que contienen microorganismos benéficos que mejoran la calidad del suelo y que favorecen el crecimiento de las plantas. Además, estos microorganismos realizan la fijación de nitrógeno y la solubilización de fosfato. El presente trabajo evaluó la aplicación de té de compost, co-inoculación (Azospirillum y Glomus) y fertilizante inorgánico sobre el crecimiento (raíz, tallo y hojas) y contenido de nutrientes en plantas de acelgas (Beta vulgarisvar. Forhook Giant). El presente trabajo se llevó a cabo en un invernadero utilizando un diseño de bloques completos al azar. Las plantas de acelga tratadas con té de compost + fertilización inorgánica (CTIF) acumularon más peso seco en raíces y tallos (4.06 y 8.10 g respectivamente), por otro lado, el peso seco de la hoja aumentó bajo tres tratamientos: fertilización inorgánica (IF), té de compost + co-inoculación (CTCi) y CTIF (12.5, 9.22 y 10.5 g respectivamente). El área foliar fue mayor en los tratamientos IF y CTIF. El contenido de P y Mg también fue mayor en los controles (C). El tratamiento con CTCi aumentó el contenido de N, K y Mn; el tratamiento de coinoculación (Ci) incrementó el contenido de Cu, así como el tratamiento de CTIF incrementó los contenidos de Ca, Fe, Zn y B y en menor medida también los contenidos de P, Mg, Cu y Mn. El coeficiente de partición de biomasa indica que en seis muestreos (de un total de siete muestreos), la mayoría de los fotosintatos (PS) fueron utilizados por las plantas para formar o aumentar el tamaño de las hojas. Si se desea un método alternativo de fertilización, se recomienda utilizar una combinación de biofertilizante y fertilización inorgánica como la combinación de té de composta y solución mineral que aumentó la producción y la concentración de nutrientes en el cultivo de acelgas.

ABSTRACT The development of cultivation technology is crucial for increasing corn (Zea mays L.) production in many parts of the world, including Indonesia. Combination of variety, planting systems, chemical fertilizers, and biofertilizers were developed in a previous study. However, such combinations must be more sustainable by including fertilizer to compost. A practical and systematic approach such as multivariate analysis is needed to increase the effectiveness of the evaluation of cultivation technology. Therefore, the study aimed to identify the best combination of compost rates with previously developed cultivation packages based on multivariate analysis. A split-plot design was used with a randomized complete group design as an environmental design. The main plot consisted of eight Farid cultivation packages (FP); each plot had eight levels (combination of variety, chemical fertilizer, and biofertilizer). Meanwhile, the subplots were four compost (C) rates, namely C0: 0 t ha-1, C1: 2 t ha-1, C2: 4 t ha-1, and C3: 6 t ha-1. Results showed that ear length (coefficient of evaluation index (CEI) = 0.164), number of kernel rows per ear (CEI = 0.067), and 1000-grain weight (CEI = 0.014) can be recommended as supporting characteristics or yield correction factors (CEI = 0.442), in which yield is the main characteristic. This study recommends combining the Farid package consisting of NK variety + fertilizer rate N:P:K = 200:100:50 + 25 kg KNO3 + Ecofarming 5 cm3 L-1 with 2, 4, and 6 t ha-1 compost rates as an alternative technology for corn cultivation.

Resumen La industria tequilera del estado de Jalisco (México) genera un residuo sólido llamado bagazo de agave, el cual puede ser aprovechado como enmienda orgánica. Sin embargo, se desconoce su dinámica de descomposición en el suelo. El objetivo del trabajo, fue evaluar la dinámica de degradación de cuatro materiales, bagazo autoclave (BA); bagazo difusor (BD); composta bagazo autoclave (CBA); y composta bagazo difusor (CBD), incubados en dos suelos contrastantes (Regosol y Luvisol) durante un año, midiendo masa seca remanente (MSR) mediante la técnica de bolsas de descomposición y determinando la constante de descomposición (k); y coeficiente isohúmico (C i ). La MSR mostró diferencias significativas entre materiales y suelos, las mayores pérdidas se presentaron en BD y BA 74 y 62 % en Regosol y 62 y 47 % en Luvisol. Los mayores valores de k se presentaron en BD en Regosol (0,0099) y Luvisol (0,0074), seguido del BA en Regosol (0,0059) y Luvisol (0,0025). Los bagazos presentaron valores bajos en C i (0,51 y 0,72 con BA y 0,37 y 0,48 con BD, en Regosol y en Luvisol, respectivamente). La MSR y el Ci revelaron que los procesos de degradación fueron más intensos y acelerados en los bagazos que en las compostas.

Abrstract The tequila industry in the state of Jalisco (Mexico) generates a solid residue called agave bagasse, which can be used as an organic amendment. However, its decomposition dynamics in soil is unknown. The objective of the work was to evaluate the degradation dynamics of four materials: autoclaved bagasse (BA); diffuser bagasse (BD); Autoclaved bagasse compost (CBA); and Diffusion bagasse compost (CBD), incubated in two contrasting soils (Regosol and Luvisol) for one year, measuring remaining dry mass (MSR) using the decomposition bag technique and determining the decomposition constant (k) and isohumic coefficient (Ci). The MSR showed significant differences between materials and soils, the highest losses occurred in BD and BA 74 and 62 % in Regosol and 62 and 47 % in Luvisol. The highest values of k occurred in BD in Regosol (0,0099) and Luvisol (0,0074), followed by BA in Regosol (0,0059) and Luvisol (0,0025). Bagasse presented low Ci values (0,51 and 0,72 with BA and 0,37 and 0,48 with BD, in Regosol and Luvisol, respectively). The MSR and the Ci revealed that the degradation processes were more intense and accelerated in the bagasse than in the composts.

Resumen El estudio del proceso de mineralización de bagazos y compostas de bagazo (subproductos procedentes de la elaboración del tequila) permite predecir los efectos que tendrán sobre la fertilidad del suelo al ser incorporados al mismo. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar el proceso de mineralización del carbono orgánico remanente (COR); nitrógeno remanente (NR); y relación carbono/nitrógeno (C/N), de cuatro materiales Bagazo autoclave (BA), Bagazo difusor (BD), composta de bagazo autoclave (CBA) y Composta de bagazo difusor (CBD), en suelos contrastantes (regosol y luvisol), por el método de las bolsas de descomposición. Después de un año de evaluación las variables mostraron diferencias significativas entre los residuos orgánicos (RO); y suelos. Se encontró que la cantidad absoluta de COR disminuyó gradualmente en los bagazos a lo largo del año, mientras que la cantidad de NR no disminuyó de manera significativa, por lo que se observó una evidente reducción de la relación C/N. Estas variables en las compostas permanecieron parcialmente estables durante el proceso de mineralización. Por lo tanto, ambos materiales se pueden añadir al suelo, aunque con objetivos diferentes; en el caso de las compostas se pueden incorporar en el suelo, mientras que en el caso de los bagazos conviene sólo depositarlos sobre el suelo.

Abstract The study of the mineralization process of bagasse and bagasse compost (by-products from the production of tequila) allows predicting their effects on soil fertility upon their incorporation. The objective of the study was to evaluate the mineralization process of the remaining organic carbon (COR), N remaining nitrogen (NR) and Carbon/nitrogen ratio (C/N), in four materials autoclave bagasse (BA), diffuser bagasse (BD), autoclaved bagasse compost (CBA), and diffuser bagasse compost (CBD), in contrasting soils (regosol and luvisol), by the decomposition bag method. After one year of evaluation, the variables showed significant differences between organic waste (OR) and soils. It was found that the absolute amount of COR gradually decreased in the bagasse throughout the year, while the amount of NR did not decrease significantly, so, an evident C/N ratio reduction was observed. These variables in the composts remained partially stable during the mineralization process. Therefore, both materials can be added to the soil, but with different objectives; in the case of compost, they can be incorporated into the soil, while in the case of bagasse it is only advisable to deposit them over soil surface.

RESUMO A pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar indicadores técnicos e econômicos da resposta do mamoeiro (Carica papaya L.) aos fatores de produção água e composto orgânico em uma propriedade com característica de agricultura familiar no semiárido brasileiro. O estudo foi conduzido no período de agosto de 2019 a julho de 2020 no primeiro ciclo de produção no município de Pentecoste-CE. A cultura do mamoeiro Formosa tipo Tainung 1 foi estabelecida no espaçamento de 2,5 m x 2,5 m, sendo a irrigação realizada por sistema localizado do tipo microaspersão. O delineamento foi em blocos ao acaso com parcelas subdivididas em quatro repetições, com tratamentos primários constituídos por quatro lâminas de irrigação (60%, 80%, 100% e 120% da evapotranspiração da cultura) e tratamentos secundários por quatro níveis de composto orgânico (0%, 50%, 100% e 150% da dose requerida pela cultura). A produtividade da água de irrigação relativa aos requerimentos dos fatores de produção no valor 4,51 R$ m-3 representou em média cinco vezes o valor de referência para o cultivo do mamoeiro em sistema de produção convencional; O crédito rural permitiu alcançar o nível de reprodução social com o cultivo de uma área que em média representa a metade da área em condições que não ocorra o financiamento.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to analyze technical and economic indicators of responses of papaya (Carica papaya L.) to the production factors water and organic compost, in a rural property with characteristic of family farming in the Semiarid region of Brazil. The study was conducted from August 2019 to July 2020, in the first crop cycle, in the municipality of Pentecoste, Ceara, Brazil. A Formosa papaya crop (cultivar Tainung 1) was established with spacing of 2.5 × 2.5 m, and irrigated by a micro-sprinkler localized system. A randomized block design was used, with a split-plot arrangement and four replications. The primary treatments consisted of four irrigation water depths (60%, 80%, 100%, and 120% of the crop evapotranspiration), and the secondary treatments consisted of four organic compost rates (0%, 50%, 100%, and 150% of the required rate for the crop). The irrigation water productivity of 5.38 R$ (BRL) m-3, related to the requirements of the production factors, on average, is five-fold the reference value for papaya crops under conventional production system. Rural credit allows the farmer to reach a social reproduction level with a papaya crop area that can be, on average, half of that needed under conditions without financing.

Resumen (Introducción): En el control y manejo de especies invasoras se producen altos volúmenes de material de desecho cuyo manejo y eliminación se convierte en un problema. El aprovechamiento de este material por medio de su compostaje como sustrato de germinación y propagación de especies nativas aportaría un uso a la cantidad de masa generada. (Objetivo): Validar el compost producido a partir de especies invasoras como sustrato para la propagación y crecimiento de especies nativas dentro del proceso de restauración ecológica en Bogotá Colombia. (Metodología): El compost utilizado se hizo a partir de cinco especies invasoras, principalmente de Ulex europaeus L. y Genista monspessulana (L.) L.A.S. Johnson con una maduración de 100 días. Se sembraron 50 semillas, de tres especies nativas en cinco tratamientos con diferentes proporciones de tierra negra y compost. Se evaluó la germinación, mortalidad, crecimiento epigeo e hipogeo y peso fresco y húmedo (Resultados): Verbesina crassiramea SF Blake presentó mayor germinación en el tratamiento con sustrato 100 % compost, seguido de 0 % compost, 75 %, 50 % y 25 % respectivamente. Dodonaea viscosa (L.) Jacq., presenta un gradiente de germinación de 75 %, seguido de 50 %, 100 %, 0 % y 25 %. Duranta mutisii L.f. tiene un gradiente de germinación inverso. El sustrato con 25 % de compost mostró baja germinación y mayor mortalidad de Dodonaea viscosa y Verbesina crassiramea. Dodonaea viscosa se desarrolló mejor en el sustrato con 75 % de compost, con mayor germinación, crecimiento de raíces, desarrollo aéreo y biomasa generada. (Conclusiones): El compost, a partir de especies invasoras puede ser usado como sustrato para la propagación de especies nativas en etapas tempranas. No se evidenció la expresión de las especies invasoras, siendo una alternativa para disminuir la demanda de tierra negra.

Abstract (Introduction): The control and management of invasive species generates high volumes of waste material whose management and disposal becomes a problem. The use of this waste material through the composting process could lead to a substrate with potential use as germination and propagation substrate of native species, therefore giving possible solutions to the quantity of mass generated in the control. (Objective): Validate the compost produced from invasive species as a potential substrate for propagation and growth of native species within the process of ecological restoration in Bogotá Colombia. (Methodology): Fifty seeds of three native species were sown in five treatments with different proportions of black soil and compost. The compost raw materials were Ulex europaeus L and Genista monspessulana (L.) L.A.S. Johnson. To evaluate its use germination, mortality, epigeal and hypogeal growth were measured. (Results): Verbesina crassiramea S. F. Blake showed the highest germination in the substrate with 100 % compost followed by 0 % compost, 75, 50 and 25 % respectively. Dodonaea viscosa (L.) Jacq., showed a germination gradient of 75 compost, followed by 50, 100, 0 and 25 %. Duranta mutisii L.f. had an inverse germination gradient. The substrate with 25 % compost caused the lowest germination and highest mortality of Dodonaea viscosa and Verbesina crassiramea. Dodonaea viscosa grew best in substrates with 75 % compost, with the highest germination value, root growth, aerial development and biomass generated. (Conclusions): Compost from invasive species, can be used as a substrate for the propagation of native species in early stages, the expression of invasive species was not evidenced, being an alternative to reduce the demand of soil.

Abstract The almond tree is an important and expanding crop, well adapted to the Mediterranean climate, and which fruit has been widely recognized for its potential health benefits. Among the dried fruits class, the almond has one of the highest vitamin E concentrations, a potent and fat-soluble antioxidant with a renowned protective effect against polyunsaturated fatty acid peroxidation. In the industrial context, this compost also contributes to an almond shelf-life increase. This work intends to identify genes from the Vitamin E biosynthetic pathway, more specifically tocopherol (α-, β-, δ e γ-tocoferol), the compost with the highest activity for the vitamin in the study. At first, the PdVTE 2, 3, and 4 putative genes genomic sequences were identified and characterized by in silico analysis. Thus, using Sanger Sequencing techniques, it was possible to identify genetic polymorphisms of the SNP and InDels type, associated with the promotor, ORF, and 3’-UTR regions in the PdVTE4 gene, which were present in three cultivars: Lauranne, Antoñeta, and Soleta. This work has contributed to increase the comprehension of the genetic mechanisms regulation tocopherol production in almond trees, constituting an allelic frequency database, specific for the studied population to select, in the future, genotypes more tolerant to oxidative stress, and consequently the production of almonds with differentiated vitamin E quality.

Resumo A amendoeira é uma cultura importante e em crescente expansão, bem adaptada a regiões de clima mediterrâneo, e cujo fruto tem sido amplamente reconhecido pelo seu potencial benéfico para a saúde. A amêndoa é dos frutos secos mais rico em vitamina E, composto antioxidante poderoso, lipossolúvel, e com reconhecido efeito protetor contra a peroxidação dos ácidos gordos polinsaturados. Em termos industriais, este composto contribui igualmente para aumentar o tempo de prateira da amêndoa. Este trabalho teve como objetivo identificar genes da cadeia biossintética da vitamina E, mais especificamente do tocoferol (α-, β-, δ e γ-tocoferol), composto com maior atividade da vitamina em estudo. Numa primeira fase, a sequência genómica dos genes putativos PdVTE 2, 3 e 4 foram identificados e caracterizados, por análise in silico. Posteriormente, por técnicas de sequenciação por Sanger foi possível identificar polimorfismos genéticos do tipo SNP e InDels associados às regiões do promotor, ORF e 3’-UTR do gene PdVTE4, presentes em três cultivares: Lauranne, Antoñeta e Soleta. Este trabalho contribuiu para uma maior compreensão dos mecanismos genéticos que regulam a produção de tocoferóis na amendoeira, constituindo uma base de dados de frequências alélicas, específica para a população estudada, para futura seleção de genótipos mais tolerantes ao stress oxidativo e produção de amêndoas de qualidade diferenciadora em vitamina E.

ABSTRACT The application of organic amendments is an increasingly widespread practice, which allows fertilizing and restoring soils in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. Improving the quality of amendments through the application of microorganisms has been a challenge in recent years. The objective of the study was to determine the effects of microalgae+compost (1:1) mixture on the yield of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis L.) plants grown in a sandy loam soil with low nutrient availability. Yields were compared with the application of compost, cattle manure and two chemical fertilizers. The treatments applied were: T1 prepared with urea (NPK 46-0-0), triple superphosphate (NPK 0-46-0) and potassium saltpeter (NPK 15-0-14); T2 commercial fertilizer (NPK 12-11-18); T3 microalgae biomass (T3); T4 compost; T5 1:1 microalgae+compost mixture; T6 cattle manure; and T0 control (no fertilization). The experiments were conducted in 30 L pots using 40 g soil per plant and 4 g N as a reference to standardize fertilizer application. The results showed that the fresh weight (FW) and dry weight (%DW) of T5 and T6 were not significantly different from those of T1 (p > 0.05), on the contrary, FW of T5 and T6 was 43.8% and 40% higher than in T2, as well as the %DW was 0.59% and 0.6% w w-1, also higher than in T2. These results suggest that the microalgae+compost mixture is an alternative fertilizer, equivalent to chemical fertilizers and manure, presenting the advantages of being more stable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. However, further studies are needed to determine the necessary dose per cultivated plant species.

ABSTRACT Coffee pulp is the main post-harvest residue from coffee culti^vation that, due to not having proper management, becomes a contaminant that affects the soil, water and air. That is why this research aims to optimize the composting process from coffee pulp in the Unión Pucusani annex, to provide information to farmers in the area on procer management and use of theirpost-harvest waste. The experimental trial consisted of 6 treatments with three repetitions and they were the following: T 0 (pulp), T 1 (pulp + ash), T 2 (pulp + ash + guinea pig manure), T 3 (pulp + ash + guinea pig manure + inoculum of mountain microorganisms), T 4 (pulp + guinea pig manure) and T 5 (pulp + inoculum of mountain microorganisms). Each compost pile was 2 m2and they were installed in the "El Inka" farm where the pH and temperature were monitored weekly. At the end of the 3 months of composting, the parameters of pH, electrical conductivity (EC), Organic Matter (OM), N, K 2 O, P 2 O 4 , CaO and MgO were analyzed and compared with the Nch2880.Of2004 Compost - Classification and requirements. It was shown that the combination of ash with guinea pig manure increased CaO and MgO, which in turn raise pH and EC, while only the addition of guinea pig manure increased the levels of MO, N, K 2 O and MgO.

RESUMEN La pulpa de café es el principal residuo poscosecha del cultivo de café que, al no tener un adecuado manejo, se convierte en un contaminante que afecta al suelo, al agua y al aire. Es por ello que esta investigación tiene como objetivo optimizar el proceso de compostaje a partir de pulpa de café en el anexo Unión Pucusani, Perú, para brindar información a los agricultores de la zona sobre un manejo y aprovechamiento adecuado de sus residuos poscosecha. El ensayo experimental constó de 6 tratamientos con tres repeticiones: T0 (pulpa), T1(pulpa + ceniza), T2(pulpa + ceniza + estiércol de cuy), T3 (pulpa + ceniza + estiércol de cuy + inóculo de microorganismos de montaña), T4 (pulpa + estiércol de cuy) y T5 (pulpa + inóculo de microorganismos de montaña). Cada pila de compost fue de 2 m2 y se instalaron en el fundo El Inka, donde se monitorearon semanalmente el pH y la temperatura. Finalizados los 3 meses de compostaje, se analizaron los parámetros de pH, conductividad eléctrica (CE), materia orgánica (MO), N, K2O, P2O4, CaO y MgO, y se compararon con la Nch2880.Of2004 Compost - Clasificación y requisitos. Se evidenció que la combinación de ceniza con estiércol de cuy incrementó el CaO y el MgO, que a su vez elevan el pH y la CE, mientras que solo la adición de estiércol de cuy aumentó los niveles de MO, N, K2O y MgO.

ABSTRACT The Ethiopian Drylands are rich in their variety of local earthworm species. However, the category of species, and the effect of their performance on additions to plant nutrients have not been adequately evaluated. Thus, local earthworm samples were collected from the three major agroecological zones (highland, midland, and lowland) in Tigray (northern Ethiopia) and classified down to species level. Moreover, a vermicomposting experiment with four treatments (three local earthworm species, Eisenia fetida , and a conventional composting method) and three replications was established. Finally, each bin’s mature compost sample was taken to analyze plant nutrient content. The study results indicated that earthworm species in the highland, midland and lowland agroecological zones were Dendrobaena veneta, Eisenia andrie and Lumbricus rubellus , respectively. The use of these earthworms in the composting process (average of the four earthworm species) yielded higher nutrient content, ranging from 21.9 % for Sodium to 3300 % for Boron, compared to the conventional one. The highest total nitrogen (an increase of 44.4 %) and organic carbon (an increase of 33.4 %) were recorded in the Eisenia fetida and Dendrobaena veneta treated bins, respectively. Composting with Eisenia andrie has resulted in increases in P (96.1 %), K (125 %), Mg (83 %) and all micro-nutrients (between 91 % for Zn and 4400 % for B). Both Eisenia andrie and Lumbricus rubellus species contributed to the increased additions of Sulfur (85.7 %) compared to the control. It can be concluded that the use of local earthworms (particularly Eisenia andrie) in the composting process plays a significant role in plant nutrient addition.

ABSTRACT A considerable part of fresh plant-based food has been discarded as waste, although it could be used to make organic compost for growing plants, retaining nutrient that would be discarded without any control in the environment. The aim of this study was to produce an organic compost using fresh vegetable food discarded from restaurants and mowed grass and to evaluate it for production of lettuce. The compost was produced and mixed with the commercial substrate Tropstrato HT Hortaliças® to occupy 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 or 25% of the volume of the mixture, which was used to grow Imperial and Imperial Roxa cultivars in the first experiment, and Camila and Red Star lettuce cultivars in the second one. The experiments were conducted under protected environment, organized in a 6x2 factorial scheme, following completely randomized design with three replicates. Chemical analyses of the substrate and compost and measurements of plant size and mass were carried out. The addition of compost caused an increase in all measurements of the plant traits, with the maximum estimated increase ranging from 1.7 to 9.0 times that estimated for the absence of compost in the plant growth substrate. Maximum estimated values for size and mass were observed with compost concentrations ranging from 20.1 to 26.7% of the mixture volume. The production of organic compost and its mixture with a commercial substrate proved to be an alternative for lettuce production, giving a better destination to the organic residues and promoting a reduction in the use of industrial inputs.

RESUMO Uma parte considerável dos alimentos vegetais frescos ainda é descartada como resíduo, embora possa ser aproveitada para confecção de composto orgânico e este usado para o cultivo de plantas, retendo nutrientes que seriam dispostos sem controle no ambiente. O objetivo deste trabalho foi produzir um composto orgânico com descarte de alimentos vegetais frescos de restaurante e poda de grama e avaliá-lo para cultivo de alface. O composto foi produzido e misturado ao substrato comercial Tropstrato HT Hortaliças® de modo a ocupar 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 ou 25% do volume da mistura e ela usada para cultivo das cultivares Imperial e Imperial Roxa num primeiro experimento, e Camila e Red Star num segundo experimento. Os experimentos foram realizados em cultivo protegido em esquema fatorial 6x2, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com três repetições. Foram realizadas análises químicas do substrato e do composto e medições de tamanho e massa das plantas. A adição de composto provocou aumento de todas as características de planta medidas, sendo que o aumento máximo estimado variou de 1,7 a 9,0 vezes aquele estimado para a ausência de composto no substrato de crescimento das plantas. Os valores máximos estimados destas características de tamanho e massa foram observados com concentrações de composto entre 20,1 e 26,7% do volume da mistura. A produção de composto orgânico e sua mistura a um substrato comercial mostrou-se uma alternativa para produção de alface, proporcionando destino adequado aos resíduos orgânicos e promovendo redução do uso de insumos industriais.

Resumo A indústria avícola está entre as indústrias altamente desenvolvidas do Paquistão, atendendo a demanda de proteína da população em rápido crescimento. Por outro lado, os resíduos de aves não tratados estão causando diversos problemas de saúde e ambientais. O presente estudo foi desenhado para verificar o potencial de espécies de fungos queratinolíticos para a conversão de resíduos de penas de frango em composto biofortificado. Para tanto, três espécies de fungos foram isoladas de amostras de solo. Essas cepas foram cultivadas puramente e, em seguida, caracterizadas fenotipicamente e genotipicamente. As pesquisas do BLAST da sequência de nucleotídeos do rDNA 18S dos isolados de fungos revelaram que os dois isolados de fungos pertenciam ao gênero Aspergillus e um pertencia ao gênero Chrysosporium. A temperatura ótima para Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger e Chrysosporium queenslandicum foi de 29, 26 e 25 oC, respectivamente. A. flavus apresentou degradação máxima de penas (53%), A. niger degradou resíduos de penas em até 37%, enquanto C. queenslandicum apresentou 21% de atividade queratinolítica em penas de frango em suas respectivas temperaturas ótimas. O potencial de degradação dessas espécies de fungos mostrou sua capacidade de formar composto de importância agroindustrial.

Abstract Poultry industry is amongst highly developed industries of Pakistan, fulfilling the protein demand of rapidly increasing population. On the other hand, the untreated poultry waste is causing several health and environmental problems. The current study was designed to check the potential of keratinolytic fungal species for the conversion of chicken-feather waste into biofortified compost. For the purpose, three fungal species were isolated from soil samples. These strains were pure cultured and then characterized phenotypically and genotypically. BLAST searches of 18S rDNA nucleotide sequence of the fungal isolates revealed that the two fungal isolates belonged to genus Aspergillus and one belonged to genus Chrysosporium. Optimum temperature for Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger and Chrysosporium queenslandicum was 29, 26 and 25 oC, respectively. A. flavus showed maximum (53%) feather degradation, A. niger degraded feather waste up to 37%, while C. queenslandicum showed 21% keratinolytic activity on chicken feathers at their respective temperature optima. The degradation potential of these fungal species showed their ability to form compost that has agro-industrial importance.