Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca
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Artificial intelligence for climate-smart agriculture: Enhancing food security and plant adaptation
Full text linkGlobal climate change is an accelerating, multifaceted threat to food security and agricultural stability, requiring innovative solutions that surpass the efficacy of conventional breeding and farming practices. This review synthesizes recent advances in AI-driven approaches for climate-smart agriculture, emphasizing their unique and transformative potential in accelerating climate adaptation, optimizing resource use. We examine AI's multifaceted applications across four critical domains: high-throughput precision agriculture, accelerated genetic engineering, advanced crop yield modeling, and granular climate and pest forecasting. Specifically, we detail how AI-driven tools-including IoT sensor networks, computer vision models for phenotype screening, and deep learning algorithms-enable real-time, plant-specific nutrient and water management. Furthermore, the review illustrates how AI has the potential to markedly support and accelerate the discovery and validation of stress-resilience genes. Critically, we address the significant ethical and structural challenges impeding AI adoption, including data heterogeneity and scarcity, the potential for algorithmic bias to widen existing resource gaps, and barriers to equitable access for smallholder farmers. A key achievement is the synthesis of AI's utility in predicting crop performance under future environmental scenarios and providing actionable, site-specific recommendations to farmers and policymakers. We conclude by advocating for essential policy and governance pathways, emphasizing the necessity of transparent international data-sharing frameworks and inclusive technology transfer to ensure that AI's benefits are harnessed effectively and equitably, thus strengthening global agricultural resilience against future climate shocks
Improvement of morphological, physiological, and antioxidant potential in purple basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) through exogenous treatments of salicylic acid and jasmonic acid
Full text linkThe effects of exogenous jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) treatments on purple basil, which is used in the food industry and traditional medicine for its aromatic properties, were investigated. Purple basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) seeds were sown in pots containing peat moss and germinated in a plant growth chamber at 25 ± 2 °C, under a photoperiod of 16 hours light/8 hours dark, at a light intensity of 27 μmol m−2s−1, and at 45 ± 5% humidity. When the seedlings reached the two-leaf stage, different concentrations (0, 0.5, and 1 mM) of SA and/or JA were treated foliarly. Fifteen days after the second application, the seedlings were harvested. Morphological measurements (root-shoot length, fresh and dry weight) and physiological-biochemical analyses were performed. Root-shoot length, fresh and dry weights, photosynthetic pigment, anthocyanin, and total phenolic content, along with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), and catalase (CAT) enzyme activities, increased in all treatment groups compared to the control, while total protein content decreased. It was determined that exogenously treated SA and JA elicitors positively affected the increase in morphological and physiological parameters, as well as the antioxidant potential, in purple basil
Influence of genotype, climatic factors and sowing time on maize yield and water release rate
Full text linkThe objective of this paper was to determine the optimal sowing periods for maize in alluvial soil in the semiarid conditions of the southern of Serbia during two successive growing seasons of six maize genotypes from three FAO ripening groups and three sowing periods. Different climatic conditions, temperatures, and amounts of precipitation levels during the examined research period, as well as different sowing periods, had a significant effect on grain yield and yield characteristics variation. The 2014 growing season was more favorable due to a well-distributed rainfall pattern during the critical stages of maize growth, which positively affected thousand-kernel weight and grain yield. Grain yield was significantly higher in 2014 compared to 2015, which was less favorable due to high temperatures and reduced rainfall during the critical growth stages. The genotypes NS 5051 and ZP 555 demonstrated the greatest stability in the number of grains per cob during the second sowing period in the 2014 season. The greatest stability in thousand-kernel weight was achieved by genotype NS 6030 in all three sowing periods in the 2014 season. The genotypes NS 5051 and ZP 555 showed the highest stability of grain yield in all three sowing periods in 2014, and positive interaction with the environment was achieved during the second sowing period in 2015. The results indicate the need for a localized approach when selecting hybrids and adjusting optimal sowing periods to mitigate the negative effects of climate change and to get maximize yield
The impact of cultivar and production conditions on apple quality
Full text linkCultivar and production conditions influence the quality of apple fruits, and morphological, biochemical, and organoleptic attributes of apples can vary significantly even within the same cultivar. Numerous factors determine the commercial appearance of apples, as well as their nutritional and gustatory value. By comparing eight apple cultivars across different cultivation environments, this study highlights significant variations in tree growth, fruit yield, and quality. The findings reveal that super-intensive systems optimize land use and enhance yield efficiency but may impose physiological constraints that affect fruit size and biochemical composition. ‘Starkrimson’ and ‘Golden Delicious’ cultivars recorded the highest production in the intensive system, while ‘Granny Smith’ performed best in the super-intensive orchard. ‘Pinova’ demonstrated the highest yield efficiency, supporting its suitability for high-density plantations. Biochemical analyses confirmed substantial variability in dry matter, sugar content, and mineral composition, emphasizing the role of ecological and agronomic factors in shaping fruit quality. Sensory evaluations identified ‘Pinova’ and ‘Golden Delicious’ as the most appreciated varieties, reaffirming the importance of sweetness, texture, and aroma in consumer preferences. The study underscores the necessity of integrating genetic, environmental, and sensory analyses in apple research to optimize production and breeding strategies. These findings contribute to the advancement of orchard management practices, ensuring sustainable apple cultivation while maintaining high fruit quality for commercial markets
Effects of different training systems and limited irrigation applications on cold storage of pitaya (Hylocereus spp.) fruits
Full text linkPitaya is a species valued for its aesthetically pleasing fruit, multifunctional uses, ability to bear fruit within a year of planting, and strong market potential. These characteristics have contributed to cultivation of subtropical regions. However, research on the postharvest storage of pitaya is limited, and existing studies show variability in storage conditions. Additionally, no studies have explored the effects of different training systems and deficit irrigation applications on pitaya storage. This study evaluated the effects of three training systems (Pole System, T-System, and Inverted U-System) and four irrigation regimes (FULL irrigation, 75%, 50%, and 25% deficit irrigation) on the cold storage quality of ‘Vietnamese Jaina’ pitaya cultivars’ fruits. The fruits were stored at 10 °C and 80% relative humidity, and key quality parameters titratable acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), weight loss, ascorbic acid content, sugar composition (glucose, fructose, sucrose), and antioxidant activity were measured at 10-day intervals. Results showed a gradual increase in weight loss (from 1.52% to 3.10%) and a decrease in ascorbic acid content (from 39.7 mg kg-1 to 32.9 mg kg-1) over storage. Sugar concentrations (glucose, fructose, sucrose) and antioxidant activity increased up to day 20 before declining. While irrigation treatments had minimal effects on most parameters, training systems significantly influenced fruit quality. The Pole System (Control) exhibited the highest TSS and ascorbic acid content, while the T-System had the highest glucose and sucrose concentrations. The greatest antioxidant activity was found in the Inverted U-System. The results indicate that ‘Vietnamese Jaina’ pitaya fruit can be stored for up to 20 days at 10 °C and 80% relative humidity in all training systems and irrigation regime without significant loss of quality
Synergistic effect of cultivation methods and seaweed-based biostimulations on iceberg lettuce in sustainable agriculture
Full text linkThis research, conducted over two consecutive years in the production fields of the Iceberg Lettuce Centar in Belgrade, aimed to investigate the impact of biostimulants on the morphological and phytochemical characteristics of iceberg lettuce in two seasons (spring and autumn), using greenhouse and open field cultivation. The biostimulator was derived from a seaweed (Kelpak). The effects of different applications (seedling soaking and foliar treatment once, twice, and three times during the growing season) on plant growth (total plant mass, leaf mass, and stem mass) and phytochemical properties, including pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoids), as well as antioxidant activity (TAC, polyphenols), were investigated. The results showed that the application of biostimulators, particularly through the seedling soaking method, contributed to an increase in plant mass and greater biomass accumulation, whereas foliar treatments enabled better development in both seasons. Plants grown in the greenhouse had more stable growth and better quality, while the spring season proved to be more favourable than autumn. Biostimulators also had a positive effect on the content of photosynthetic pigments and antioxidants, which improved the nutritional value and stress resistance of plants
Enhanced accumulation of total phenolic content and rosmarinic acid in cell suspension cultures of Ehretia asperula using elicitors and precursors
Full text linkEhretia asperula, a Vietnamese endemic species known as Xạ Đen, has traditional medicinal applications for conditions such as hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and cancer. Plant cell suspension cultures provide an alternative approach for producing secondary metabolites. This study focuses on the effects of precursors and elicitors on the accumulation of total phenolic and rosmarinic acid, one of the bioactive compounds presents in E. asperula. Suspension cultures were established using Gamborg (B5) medium supplemented with 1.5 mg L-1 naphthalene acetic acid. Precursors, including L-tyrosine and L-phenylalanine, and elicitors, such as salicylic acid and yeast extract, were added to the culture medium at different concentrations to examine their effects on total phenolic and rosmarinic acid production. The results indicated that precursors and elicitors differentially influenced the accumulation of secondary metabolites and the growth of E. asperula cells. Notably, L-tyrosine was more effective than L-phenylalanine in enhancing biomass and secondary metabolite production after 15 days of culture, with the highest yield observed at 0.5 mg L-1 L-tyrosine. Between the two elicitors tested, yeast extract significantly promoted the production of phenolic compounds and rosmarinic acid, with the highest levels recorded after 12 hours of treatment with 1.0 g L-1 yeast extract. Overall, the findings highlight the potential of E. asperula cell suspension cultures as a substantial source of rosmarinic acid production. The protocol developed in this study offers a promising solution to address the challenges of large-scale production and provides a potential source of raw materials for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and functional food industries
Expression profiling of Auxin and GA signaling genes during fruit set in Zanthoxylum armatum
Full text linkZanthoxylum armatum DC. is an important economic crop in Southwest China, but severe fruit drop and low fruit set rate reduce yields. Identification of key genes regulating fruit set in Z. armatum could provide new insights for addressing fruit abscission. In this study, we examined the morphological and anatomical characteristics of pistils and young fruits in two Z. armatum cultivars, ‘Jiuyeqing’ and ‘Prickleless’. Both cultivars exhibited unisexual flowers with apomictic traits and similar fruit morphology as well as anatomy. Transcriptome data were utilized to identify auxin and gibberellin biosynthetic and signaling genes. A total of 21 Aux/IAAs, 19 ARFs, 2 GA20oxs, 3 GA2OXs, GID1, and 6 DELLA genes were differentially expressed in male and female flowers, suggesting their candidate roles in regulating fruit set. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Aux/IAA family members clustered into two clades with seven subfamilies, while ARFs were divided into four subclasses. ZaGA20oxs, ZaGA2oxs, ZaGID1, and ZaDELLAs showed high homology to their orthologs in tomato and cucumber. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that auxin-related ZaIAA8, ZaIAA11, ZaIAA20, ZaARF1, ZaARF5, and ZaARF10 exhibited similar expression trends during fruit set in both cultivars, whereas other genes (e.g., ZaIAA6, ZaIAA7, ZaARF9, ZaARF18) displayed divergent expression. Gibberellin-related ZaGA20ox2, ZaGA2OX2, ZaGA2OX4, ZaDELLA1, and ZaDELLA3 were significantly differentially expressed during pistil development and fruit initiation across cultivars. This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of phytohormone-mediated fruit development and offers a theoretical foundation for breeding high-yield varieties
Effects of drip application of different concentrations of CO₂ solution on canopy gas exchange, growth, yield, and quality of cotton
Full text linkChanges in atmospheric CO₂ concentration strongly affect the photosynthetic performance of C₃ plants. Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), a major global cash crop, provides a suitable model to study CO₂ fertilization effects. While moderate CO₂ enrichment can promote growth and yield, the optimal regime for field-scale application remains unclear. In this study conducted in Xinjiang, China, CO₂ gas was dissolved in irrigation water at four concentrations (0.04, 0.08, 0.12, 0.16 kg·m-³) and applied via a drip irrigation system. The effects on canopy CO₂ distribution, plant physiological responses, yield, and fibre quality were assessed. Drip-applied CO₂ solutions increased canopy CO₂ concentration by gradually releasing CO₂ from the soil, which in turn enhanced plant growth indicators (SPAD, AGB, LAI, plant height). Growth promotion followed a dose–response trend, with effects rising at lower concentrations and declining at higher levels. Yield analysis showed that lint yield increased by 1.9% and 8.4% under 0.04 and 0.08 kg·m-³ treatments, respectively, compared with the control (p < 0.05). In contrast, 0.12 and 0.16 kg·m-³ treatments reduced yield by 13.4% and 5.4%, respectively (p < 0.05). Fibre quality indicators remained within the optimal range across all treatments. Overall, 0.08 kg·m-³ was identified as the most effective concentration, producing the highest yield while maintaining fibre quality. These findings provide a scientific basis for the field application of CO₂-enriched irrigation, offering a promising approach to enhance cotton productivity and the ecological sustainability of farmland systems
Genetic diversity and essential oil composition of Myrtus communis L. from Lorestan Province, Iran: Implications for conservation and utilization
Full text linkThis study investigates the relationships between genetic diversity, environmental factors, and essential oil composition in Myrtus communis L., an evergreen medicinal shrub. Three populations in Lorestan Province, Iran (Cham Mord, Kaka Reza, Sepid Dasht) were analyzed using molecular and chemical techniques. Genetic diversity was assessed using Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) and Start Codon Targeted (SCoT) markers. ISSR (eight primers, 81 loci) showed highest diversity in Cham Mord (Shannon I = 0.26), while SCoT (eight primers, 71 loci) indicated Kaka Reza had highest diversity (I = 0.27). PCoA and cluster analysis under both markers showed Cham Mord was genetically distinct, with lowest genetic distance between Kaka Reza and Sepid Dasht (0.259) and highest between Cham Mord and Sepid Dasht (0.332). Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry identified 37 essential oil compounds with significant variation. Cham Mord had higher α-pinene (72.05%) than Kaka Reza (22.45%) and Sepid Dasht (6.56%). Sepid Dasht showed highest oil yield, linked to lower altitude, higher phosphorus (13.8%) and organic carbon (1.24%), and lower salinity (EC = 0.24 ds m-1). Kaka Reza, with higher salinity (EC = 0.41 ds m-1) and sodium (19 mg l-1), had the lowest yield. Essential oil-based clustering grouped Cham Mord and Kaka Reza, separating Sepid Dasht, matching SCoT patterns. Results reveal strong correlation between genetic diversity, oil profiles, and environmental factors including altitude, salinity, sodium, phosphorus, and organic carbon. Altitude inversely related to oil yield. Findings highlight local adaptation and phenotypic plasticity in M. communis chemodiversity, offering insights for conservation, sustainable use, and selection for medicinal and agricultural uses. Further studies on gene expression mechanisms of oil biosynthesis under varying environments are recommended