Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias
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Dry mass production, nutrient accumulation and decomposition rate of cover crops intercropped with a Theobroma cacao full-sun system
Full text linkCover crops play a crucial role in promoting soil protection, enhancing organic matter content, facilitating nutrient cycling, and improving overall soil quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biomass production, nutrient accumulation, and decomposition rate of cover crops intercropped with Theobroma cacao trees in a full-sun system. The research was conducted in Ilhéus, Bahia state, Brazil. The experimental design employed randomized blocks with three treatments, four decomposition times, and four replications. The treatments consisted of three cover crops: 1) pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan); 2) brachiaria (Urochloa decumbens); and 3) spontaneous vegetation. Decomposition rates were evaluated using litter bags at specific intervals: 0, 47, 94, 116, and 136 days after field deposition. Dry biomass production and nutrient accumulation by the cover crops were also measured. Spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria treatments exhibited the highest potassium accumulation, while no significant differences were observed among the treatments for the other evaluated nutrients. Moreover, spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria demonstrated higher decomposition rates, with 16.7% and 26.7% of the deposited material remaining at the end of the 136-day study period, respectively. In contrast, the decomposition rate of pigeon pea proved to be slower, with a remaining dry mass of 38.3%, indicating longer persistence in the soil, and consequently a greater half-life time. The cover crops investigated in this study are regarded as promising options for intercropping with cocoa, as they exhibit an average dry mass production of 10 Mg ha-1. This value falls within the desired range for conservationist systems. When selecting species for intercropping, it is crucial to consider the decomposition rates these plants. This consideration ensures that the soil surface remains covered for an extended duration, leading to enhanced conservation and improvement of the soil’s physical, chemical, and biological properties. Soil conservation can be effectively achieved by choosing cover crop species with slower decomposition rates, thereby contributing to the overall health and quality of the soil.
Highlights:
This study evaluated biomass production, nutrient accumulation, and decomposition rate of cover crops intercropped with Theobroma cocoa trees in a full-sun system.
The cover crops investigated exhibit an average dry mass production of 10 Mg ha-1.
Spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria treatments exhibited the highest potassium accumulation.
Pigeon pea proved to be slower decomposition rate and largest remaining dry masso on the soil. In contrast, Spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria demonstrated higher decomposition rates, consequently less remaining dry mass.Cover crops play a crucial role in promoting soil protection, enhancing organic matter content, facilitating nutrient cycling, and improving overall soil quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biomass production, nutrient accumulation, and decomposition rate of cover crops intercropped with Theobroma cacao trees in a full-sun system. The research was conducted in Ilhéus, Bahia state, Brazil. The experimental design employed randomized blocks with three treatments, four decomposition times, and four replications. The treatments consisted of three cover crops: 1) pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan); 2) brachiaria (Urochloa decumbens); and 3) spontaneous vegetation. Decomposition rates were evaluated using litter bags at specific intervals: 0, 47, 94, 116, and 136 days after field deposition. Dry biomass production and nutrient accumulation by the cover crops were also measured. Spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria treatments exhibited the highest potassium accumulation, while no significant differences were observed among the treatments for the other evaluated nutrients. Moreover, spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria demonstrated higher decomposition rates, with 16.7% and 26.7% of the deposited material remaining at the end of the 136-day study period, respectively. In contrast, the decomposition rate of pigeon pea proved to be slower, with a remaining dry mass of 38.3%, indicating longer persistence in the soil, and consequently a greater half-life time. The cover crops investigated in this study are regarded as promising options for intercropping with cocoa, as they exhibit an average dry mass production of 10 Mg ha-1. This value falls within the desired range for conservationist systems. When selecting species for intercropping, it is crucial to consider the decomposition rates these plants. This consideration ensures that the soil surface remains covered for an extended duration, leading to enhanced conservation and improvement of the soil’s physical, chemical, and biological properties. Soil conservation can be effectively achieved by choosing cover crop species with slower decomposition rates, thereby contributing to the overall health and quality of the soil.
Highlights:
This study evaluated biomass production, nutrient accumulation, and decomposition rate of cover crops intercropped with Theobroma cocoa trees in a full-sun system.
The cover crops investigated exhibit an average dry mass production of 10 Mg ha-1.
Spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria treatments exhibited the highest potassium accumulation.
Pigeon pea proved to be slower decomposition rate and largest remaining dry masso on the soil. In contrast, Spontaneous vegetation and brachiaria demonstrated higher decomposition rates, consequently less remaining dry mass
Impact of fire on the genetic variability of a natural population of Stylosanthes hippocampoides (Fabaceae) in Corrientes, Argentina
Full text linkStylosanthes hippocampoides, a native legume forage species, was first studied by our research team in 2016 to assess genetic variability in natural populations in northeastern Argentina. Recurrent fires in the following years raised concerns about their effects on population genetics. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the genetic variability and structure of S. hippocampoides populations before and after fire events, and to infer whether such disturbances influence genetic diversity. Using Geographic Information System tools, we selected one fire-affected population (ASI) and one unaffected population (TC). Genetic analyses were conducted using inter-simple sequence repeat markers, and pre- and post-fire genetic statistics were compared. Greater genetic variability was observed between populations than within them. The TC population exhibited higher intra-population genetic diversity than the ASI population. Genetic variability decreased in ASI post-fire, while TC slightly increased. However, neither change was statistically significant. Genetic structure analysis consistently grouped individuals by population, regardless of fire exposure. These findings provide a foundation for future research on Stylosanthes, incorporating additional populations with varied fire histories and examining post-fire recovery processes.
Highlights:
Fire impact on genetic variability of Stylosanthes hippocampoides populations in Corrientes Argentina were assessed.
This is a preliminary study supporting fire-related conservation planning efforts.
Genetic variability was higher among than within populations.
Post-fire population showed genetic decline, not statistically significant.
Genetic structure grouped individuals by population in all comparisons.
This study explores fire effects and recovery in Stylosanthes.Stylosanthes hippocampoides, a native legume forage species, was first studied by our research team in 2016 to assess genetic variability in natural populations in northeastern Argentina. Recurrent fires in the following years raised concerns about their effects on population genetics. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the genetic variability and structure of S. hippocampoides populations before and after fire events, and to infer whether such disturbances influence genetic diversity. Using Geographic Information System tools, we selected one fire-affected population (ASI) and one unaffected population (TC). Genetic analyses were conducted using inter-simple sequence repeat markers, and pre- and post-fire genetic statistics were compared. Greater genetic variability was observed between populations than within them. The TC population exhibited higher intra-population genetic diversity than the ASI population. Genetic variability decreased in ASI post-fire, while TC slightly increased. However, neither change was statistically significant. Genetic structure analysis consistently grouped individuals by population, regardless of fire exposure. These findings provide a foundation for future research on Stylosanthes, incorporating additional populations with varied fire histories and examining post-fire recovery processes.
Highlights:
Fire impact on genetic variability of Stylosanthes hippocampoides populations in Corrientes Argentina were assessed.
This is a preliminary study supporting fire-related conservation planning efforts.
Genetic variability was higher among than within populations.
Post-fire population showed genetic decline, not statistically significant.
Genetic structure grouped individuals by population in all comparisons.
This study explores fire effects and recovery in Stylosanthes
Characterization of the pork sector in the productive core of Argentina: a look at small producers
Full text linkPros and cons of pork production in Argentina underscore the need to have information to empower pork producers. This study characterizes three pork production strata (Small, Medium, and Large) in north Buenos Aires using surveys (n=40). We provide information on farms, management practices, infrastructure, technology and commercial activities. We found significant differences (p-value < 0.05) between strata in the use of artificial insemination and effluent treatment (mainly through lagoons and soil application) regarding infrastructure and technology. Additionally, there was a trend towards breeding in confined systems as the size of the production increased. Furthermore, despite 72.50% of surveyed producers having reported access to professional veterinary advice, we found a significant difference (p-value = 0.0167) in access between the Small (45.45%) and Large (100%) strata. Regarding commercialization, data indicated piglet sales as the predominant activity, with pig farming serving as a supplementary source of income for most producers. These findings show the need for professional intervention in smaller-scale pig farms to overcome structural barriers and access to the production chain.
Highlights:
The majority of surveyed pork producers (82.05%) relied on natural mating for breeding, with significantly greater access to artificial insemination in the Large stratum.
For the first time, information is presented on effluent disposal and/or treatment processes to reduce contaminants, along with workforce size, within the study area.
A Significant proportion of surveyed swine producers (72.50%) received veterinary advice, though there was a statistically difference between the Small and Large strata.
Predominant proportion of producers (65%) reported primarily selling piglets, with private sales prevailing in the Small and Medium stratum.Pros and cons of pork production in Argentina underscore the need to have information to empower pork producers. This study characterizes three pork production strata (Small, Medium, and Large) in north Buenos Aires using surveys (n=40). We provide information on farms, management practices, infrastructure, technology and commercial activities. We found significant differences (p-value < 0.05) between strata in the use of artificial insemination and effluent treatment (mainly through lagoons and soil application) regarding infrastructure and technology. Additionally, there was a trend towards breeding in confined systems as the size of the production increased. Furthermore, despite 72.50% of surveyed producers having reported access to professional veterinary advice, we found a significant difference (p-value = 0.0167) in access between the Small (45.45%) and Large (100%) strata. Regarding commercialization, data indicated piglet sales as the predominant activity, with pig farming serving as a supplementary source of income for most producers. These findings show the need for professional intervention in smaller-scale pig farms to overcome structural barriers and access to the production chain.
Highlights:
The majority of surveyed pork producers (82.05%) relied on natural mating for breeding, with significantly greater access to artificial insemination in the Large stratum.
For the first time, information is presented on effluent disposal and/or treatment processes to reduce contaminants, along with workforce size, within the study area.
A Significant proportion of surveyed swine producers (72.50%) received veterinary advice, though there was a statistically difference between the Small and Large strata.
Predominant proportion of producers (65%) reported primarily selling piglets, with private sales prevailing in the Small and Medium stratum
Biofungicide formulation based on Bacillus velezensis EM-A8 for control of maize foliar diseases
Full text linkThe aim was to evaluate inoculum production of Bacillus velezensis EM-A8, a native bacterium of maize phyllosphere, antagonist to foliar pathogens Exserohilum turcicum and Puccinia sorghi. Six economic media were tested: 1) Nutrient Broth (8 g.L-1); 2) Whole soybean flour (40 g.L-1) + sucrose (20 g.L-1); 3) Whole soybean flour (10 g.L-1) + molasses (20 g.L-1), 4) Whole soybean flour (40 g.L-1) + molasses (10 g.L-1); 5) Yeast extract (10 g.L-1) + molasses (5 g.L-1) and 6) Yeast extract (10 g.L-1) + sucrose (5 g.L-1). Growth was determined spectrophotometrically at 620 nm and viability was estimated. M2 showed the shortest generation time (g 1.22 h). M3 and M5 were selected for efficiency and aW was modified with glycerol at 0.97. Inoculums were stored under refrigeration (5°C) and room temperature (20-25°C) for 8 months. At 5°C the viability of the antagonist at 3.3-4.5 log CFU ml-1 was significantly lower than at room temperature (6-6.8 log CFU ml-1), where M5 showed the highest stability. The bioformulation of B. velezensis EM-A8 in M5 at aW 0.97 and stored at room temperature will allow successful control of maize foliar diseases.
Highlights:
Commercial products and by-products in different media provide high growth and shelf life of B. velezensis EM-A8.
Storage temperature significantly affected B. velezensis EM-A8 viability.
B. velezensis EM-A8 in growth medium with yeast extract and molasses, modified aW with glycerol at 0.97 and stored at room temperature is a promising product.
Liquid formulations stored at room temperature maintained stable viability in 6 log for 8 month.
The aim was to evaluate inoculum production of Bacillus velezensis EM-A8, a native bacterium of maize phyllosphere, antagonist to foliar pathogens Exserohilum turcicum and Puccinia sorghi. Six economic media were tested: 1) Nutrient Broth (8 g.L-1); 2) Whole soybean flour (40 g.L-1) + sucrose (20 g.L-1); 3) Whole soybean flour (10 g.L-1) + molasses (20 g.L-1), 4) Whole soybean flour (40 g.L-1) + molasses (10 g.L-1); 5) Yeast extract (10 g.L-1) + molasses (5 g.L-1) and 6) Yeast extract (10 g.L-1) + sucrose (5 g.L-1). Growth was determined spectrophotometrically at 620 nm and viability was estimated. M2 showed the shortest generation time (g 1.22 h). M3 and M5 were selected for efficiency and aW was modified with glycerol at 0.97. Inoculums were stored under refrigeration (5°C) and room temperature (20-25°C) for 8 months. At 5°C the viability of the antagonist at 3.3-4.5 log CFU ml-1 was significantly lower than at room temperature (6-6.8 log CFU ml-1), where M5 showed the highest stability. The bioformulation of B. velezensis EM-A8 in M5 at aW 0.97 and stored at room temperature will allow successful control of maize foliar diseases.
Highlights:
Commercial products and by-products in different media provide high growth and shelf life of B. velezensis EM-A8.
Storage temperature significantly affected B. velezensis EM-A8 viability.
B. velezensis EM-A8 in growth medium with yeast extract and molasses, modified aW with glycerol at 0.97 and stored at room temperature is a promising product.
Liquid formulations stored at room temperature maintained stable viability in 6 log for 8 month
Acceptability of bonbons made with camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia L)
Full text linkThe aim of this study was to formulate and evaluate different formulations of camu-camu bonbons, verifying which formulations obtained greater acceptability and maintenance of their nutraceutical potential. The bonbons were made of 2 chocolate-based toppings (white chocolate and milk chocolate), with three types of camu-camu-based fillings (candy, candy + jelly and candy + syrup). A sensory analysis was performed using a questionnaire and a hedonic scale ranging from 9 to 1 to evaluate appearance, colour, taste and texture. The hedonic scale used to assess purchase intentions ranged from 5 to 1. The physicochemical characteristics and bioactive compounds of the bonbons were evaluated. Bonbons had excellent acceptability rates, where consumers would definitely buy bonbons: white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy+camu-camu syrup (F3) and milk chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F4). Consumers would ‘probably buy’ white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F1) based on its texture and high levels of vitamin C (VitC), antioxidant activity (FRAP) and (DPPH), phenolic compounds (Phen), and flavonoids (Flavon). Milk chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F4), white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy+camu-camu syrup (F3), and white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F1) have excellent purchase percentages and levels of VitC, FRAP and DPPH, Phen, and Flavon, and especially titratable low acidity; these formulations are highlighted among consumers.
Highlights:
Camu-camu bonbons have bioactive compounds and high nutraceutical potential.
Different bonbon formulations affect the profile of bioactive compounds in bonbons.
The different parts of the camu-camu fruit used in the bonbon’s formulation influence the nutraceutical potential of the products.The aim of this study was to formulate and evaluate different formulations of camu-camu bonbons, verifying which formulations obtained greater acceptability and maintenance of their nutraceutical potential. The bonbons were made of 2 chocolate-based toppings (white chocolate and milk chocolate), with three types of camu-camu-based fillings (candy, candy + jelly and candy + syrup). A sensory analysis was performed using a questionnaire and a hedonic scale ranging from 9 to 1 to evaluate appearance, colour, taste and texture. The hedonic scale used to assess purchase intentions ranged from 5 to 1. The physicochemical characteristics and bioactive compounds of the bonbons were evaluated. Bonbons had excellent acceptability rates, where consumers would definitely buy bonbons: white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy+camu-camu syrup (F3) and milk chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F4). Consumers would ‘probably buy’ white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F1) based on its texture and high levels of vitamin C (VitC), antioxidant activity (FRAP) and (DPPH), phenolic compounds (Phen), and flavonoids (Flavon). Milk chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F4), white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy+camu-camu syrup (F3), and white chocolate stuffed with camu-camu candy (F1) have excellent purchase percentages and levels of VitC, FRAP and DPPH, Phen, and Flavon, and especially titratable low acidity; these formulations are highlighted among consumers.
Highlights:
Camu-camu bonbons have bioactive compounds and high nutraceutical potential.
Different bonbon formulations affect the profile of bioactive compounds in bonbons.
The different parts of the camu-camu fruit used in the bonbon’s formulation influence the nutraceutical potential of the products.
Variations of Atmospheric Emissions in the Biomass Burning of Tree Species as an Environmental Indicator
Full text linkBiomass burning (BB) serves as both an energy source and an environmental indicator. This study examined how CO₂ and fine particle emissions vary during the combustion of biomass from three tree species to determine their contribution to environmental pollution. Leave and stem samples were taken from A. farnesiana (huizache) tree, S. molle (pirul), and P. laevigata (mesquite). The dry biomass was thermally processed in a muffle furnace at temperatures ranging from 50°C to 450°C. Emissions of CO₂, particles smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5), particles smaller than 10 microns (PM10), and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) were measured. The highest emission levels occurred during the pyrolysis process between 250°C and 450°C in both leaves and stems. Among the leaves, the highest emissions of PM2.5 and PM10 were found in huizache, while the highest values were found in mesquite stems. In terms of leaves, mesquite had the highest CO₂ emissions, followed by huizache and pirul. Regarding the stems, pirul had the highest atmospheric emissions of CO₂, followed by huizache and mesquite. In all cases, emission levels exceeded the limits established by Mexican and international environmental regulations, indicating a significant risk to the environment and public health.
Highlights:
Biomass burning (BB) is the combustion of plant materials, which are widely used for energy production
This study experimentally verified the environmental impacts of biomass burning for three tree species under a laboratory pyrolysis process.
The highest PM5 and PM10 emissions occurred in A. farnesiana leaves and in P. laevigata stems.
The order of highest CO₂ emissions in leaves was laevigata > A. farnesiana > S. molle; in stems, it was S. molle > A. farnesiana > P. laevigata.
Further comparisons across biomass burning sources and processes should strengthen evaluations of environmental impact considering air pollution.Biomass burning (BB) serves as both an energy source and an environmental indicator. This study examined how CO₂ and fine particle emissions vary during the combustion of biomass from three tree species to determine their contribution to environmental pollution. Leave and stem samples were taken from A. farnesiana (huizache) tree, S. molle (pirul), and P. laevigata (mesquite). The dry biomass was thermally processed in a muffle furnace at temperatures ranging from 50°C to 450°C. Emissions of CO₂, particles smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5), particles smaller than 10 microns (PM10), and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) were measured. The highest emission levels occurred during the pyrolysis process between 250°C and 450°C in both leaves and stems. Among the leaves, the highest emissions of PM2.5 and PM10 were found in huizache, while the highest values were found in mesquite stems. In terms of leaves, mesquite had the highest CO₂ emissions, followed by huizache and pirul. Regarding the stems, pirul had the highest atmospheric emissions of CO₂, followed by huizache and mesquite. In all cases, emission levels exceeded the limits established by Mexican and international environmental regulations, indicating a significant risk to the environment and public health.
Highlights:
Biomass burning (BB) is the combustion of plant materials, which are widely used for energy production
This study experimentally verified the environmental impacts of biomass burning for three tree species under a laboratory pyrolysis process.
The highest PM5 and PM10 emissions occurred in A. farnesiana leaves and in P. laevigata stems.
The order of highest CO₂ emissions in leaves was laevigata > A. farnesiana > S. molle; in stems, it was S. molle > A. farnesiana > P. laevigata.
Further comparisons across biomass burning sources and processes should strengthen evaluations of environmental impact considering air pollution
Nursery Production of Neltuma Genus in Arid and Semiarid Regions of Argentine: a Review
Full text linkNeltuma spp. (previously known as Prosopis spp.) are vital for ecological restoration and sustainable forestry in arid and semiarid environments. Although extensively studied, nursery techniques are still inconsistently applied, and poorly integrated. This review synthesizes recent scientific advances in seedling cultivation under controlled conditions, focusing on seed source selection, dormancy-breaking treatments, and substrate-container interactions. This review incorporates developments concerning seed source selection, plant physiology, and nursery trials to identify knowledge gaps and propose strategies for reforestation improvement. We offer actionable guidance for nursery operators, restoration professionals, and policymakers. Future research should focus on long-term field studies, genomic tools, standardization of nursery techniques, biological interactions that improve stress tolerance, and economic feasibility, especially for under-researched species.
Highlights:
A comprehensive review of nursery production techniques for Neltuma spp. in arid and semi-arid regions of Argentina.
Genetic variation and seed provenance significantly influence seedling performance and restoration success.
Species-specific pre-germinative treatments improve germination rates and uniformity in nursery settings.
Container–substrate combinations strongly affect morphological traits such as height, root collar diameter, and biomass.
Future research should prioritize microbial inoculants, cost–benefit analyses, and long-term field evaluations to develop scalable nursery protocols.Neltuma spp. (previously known as Prosopis spp.) are vital for ecological restoration and sustainable forestry in arid and semiarid environments. Although extensively studied, nursery techniques are still inconsistently applied, and poorly integrated. This review synthesizes recent scientific advances in seedling cultivation under controlled conditions, focusing on seed source selection, dormancy-breaking treatments, and substrate-container interactions. This review incorporates developments concerning seed source selection, plant physiology, and nursery trials to identify knowledge gaps and propose strategies for reforestation improvement. We offer actionable guidance for nursery operators, restoration professionals, and policymakers. Future research should focus on long-term field studies, genomic tools, standardization of nursery techniques, biological interactions that improve stress tolerance, and economic feasibility, especially for under-researched species.
Highlights:
A comprehensive review of nursery production techniques for Neltuma spp. in arid and semi-arid regions of Argentina.
Genetic variation and seed provenance significantly influence seedling performance and restoration success.
Species-specific pre-germinative treatments improve germination rates and uniformity in nursery settings.
Container–substrate combinations strongly affect morphological traits such as height, root collar diameter, and biomass.
Future research should prioritize microbial inoculants, cost–benefit analyses, and long-term field evaluations to develop scalable nursery protocols
Agricultural Land Valuation-Hedonic Pricing and Geostatistical Advances: A State-of-the-Art Review
Full text linkThis review examines international research on agricultural land valuation using hedonic pricing methods and geostatistical techniques. It brings together conceptual frameworks, functional forms, spatial econometric models, and empirical findings from key regions such as the United States, Europe, China, Australia, and Latin America. The main sections of the paper present comparative tables that summarise 23 studies applying log-linear or log-log models, R² values, and estimated marginal effects of irrigation water and other attributes. The review highlights methodological advances, identifies ongoing challenges in modelling spatial dependence and heterogeneous terrains, and outlines research gaps for developing robust valuation frameworks applicable to irrigated arid zones.
Highlights:
This review synthesises international research that applies hedonic pricing models to agricultural land valuation, emphasising irrigation water as a key market attribute.
It compiles 23 empirical studies that compare classical and spatial econometric approaches across diverse agro-ecological regions.
Recent advances in geostatistics—such as kriging and spatial regression—improve predictive accuracy and effectively address spatial dependence.
Irrigation water consistently exerts positive and significant marginal effects on farmland prices, confirming its dual role as both a productive input and a territorial asset.
The study highlights the need for further integration of environmental and socio-political variables, along with improved data harmonisation and dynamic modelling for arid and semi-arid regions.This review examines international research on agricultural land valuation using hedonic pricing methods and geostatistical techniques. It brings together conceptual frameworks, functional forms, spatial econometric models, and empirical findings from key regions such as the United States, Europe, China, Australia, and Latin America. The main sections of the paper present comparative tables that summarise 23 studies applying log-linear or log-log models, R² values, and estimated marginal effects of irrigation water and other attributes. The review highlights methodological advances, identifies ongoing challenges in modelling spatial dependence and heterogeneous terrains, and outlines research gaps for developing robust valuation frameworks applicable to irrigated arid zones.
Highlights:
This review synthesises international research that applies hedonic pricing models to agricultural land valuation, emphasising irrigation water as a key market attribute.
It compiles 23 empirical studies that compare classical and spatial econometric approaches across diverse agro-ecological regions.
Recent advances in geostatistics—such as kriging and spatial regression—improve predictive accuracy and effectively address spatial dependence.
Irrigation water consistently exerts positive and significant marginal effects on farmland prices, confirming its dual role as both a productive input and a territorial asset.
The study highlights the need for further integration of environmental and socio-political variables, along with improved data harmonisation and dynamic modelling for arid and semi-arid regions
Guava Leaf Meal (Psidium guajava L.) in Broiler Diets: Effects on Performance, Nutrient digestibilty, and Intestinal Morphology
Full text linkThis study investigated the effect of guava leaf meal (GLM) as a phytobiotic in broilers, focusing on its chemical properties and potential physiological benefits. 135 one-day-old male Cobb broilers were randomly allocated to five treatments (nine replicates per treatment and three birds per replicate): a basal diet with regulated commercial antibiotic (T1), without regulated commercial antibiotic or growth promoters (T2), 1% GLM (T3), 1.5% GLM (T4), and 2% GLM (T5) for 38 d. T2, T3, T4, and T5 reduced feed intake (FI) during the finishing phase (days 20–38, P < 0.0001), but there were no statistical differences in accumulated feed intake (AFI) between treatments. GLM groups had lower ADG during the starter phase (days 3-20, P < 0.05), but there were no statistical differences in accumulated gain. Accumulated feed conversión rate (FCR) was better in T2 to T5 compared to T1 (P < 0.05). GLM groups (T3, T4 and T5) showed significantly higher values of nutrient digestibility (P < 0.05). Duodenum morphology showed that number of villi (P=0.02) and the villus height (P= 0.03) increased with GLM supplementation with respect to control groups (T1 and T2). In conclusion, GLM-based diets enhanced nutrient digestibility and improved intestinal architecture, thereby supporting their inclusion in broiler chicken diets to optimize production efficiency.
Highlights:
Dietary inclusion of 1.5-2% Guava Leaf Meal significantly enhanced apparent nutrient digestibility in broiler chickens, particularly crude protein and phosphorus.
GLM supplementation improved duodenal morphology by increasing villus height and villus number, suggesting enhanced nutrient absorption capacity.
Although feed intake was reduced during the finisher phase, overall feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly improved with GLM, indicating better feed efficiency.
Guava Leaf Meal demonstrated potential as a natural phytobiotic alternative to conventional antibiotics for optimizing broiler production performance and intestinal health.This study investigated the effect of guava leaf meal (GLM) as a phytobiotic in broilers, focusing on its chemical properties and potential physiological benefits. 135 one-day-old male Cobb broilers were randomly allocated to five treatments (nine replicates per treatment and three birds per replicate): a basal diet with regulated commercial antibiotic (T1), without regulated commercial antibiotic or growth promoters (T2), 1% GLM (T3), 1.5% GLM (T4), and 2% GLM (T5) for 38 d. T2, T3, T4, and T5 reduced feed intake (FI) during the finishing phase (days 20–38, P < 0.0001), but there were no statistical differences in accumulated feed intake (AFI) between treatments. GLM groups had lower ADG during the starter phase (days 3-20, P < 0.05), but there were no statistical differences in accumulated gain. Accumulated feed conversión rate (FCR) was better in T2 to T5 compared to T1 (P < 0.05). GLM groups (T3, T4 and T5) showed significantly higher values of nutrient digestibility (P < 0.05). Duodenum morphology showed that number of villi (P=0.02) and the villus height (P= 0.03) increased with GLM supplementation with respect to control groups (T1 and T2). In conclusion, GLM-based diets enhanced nutrient digestibility and improved intestinal architecture, thereby supporting their inclusion in broiler chicken diets to optimize production efficiency.
Highlights:
Dietary inclusion of 1.5-2% Guava Leaf Meal significantly enhanced apparent nutrient digestibility in broiler chickens, particularly crude protein and phosphorus.
GLM supplementation improved duodenal morphology by increasing villus height and villus number, suggesting enhanced nutrient absorption capacity.
Although feed intake was reduced during the finisher phase, overall feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly improved with GLM, indicating better feed efficiency.
Guava Leaf Meal demonstrated potential as a natural phytobiotic alternative to conventional antibiotics for optimizing broiler production performance and intestinal health
Radial Growth Dynamics and Drought Resilience in Pinus pinea L. Plantations from Central-Western Argentina: Implications for Forestry Development
Full text linkForests play a crucial role in ecological stability, carbon sequestration, habitat provision and economy. As climate change intensifies, increasing drought frequency and severity challenge our understanding of forest resilience. Based on this premise, we examined radial growth dynamics and drought response of Pinus pinea L. in Mendoza Province in both mesic and xeric conditions. Using dendrochronological techniques, we assessed the long and short-term effects of soil and atmospheric drought on radial growth trends at two irrigated plantations with contrasting environments. Growth dynamics reflected differences in soil, climate, and irrigation. Growth rates were significantly higher at the mesic stand, which received nearly twice the precipitation and irrigation compared to xeric one. In contrast, growth at the xeric site was strongly limited by early-summer atmospheric drought, while late-growing season soil moisture and climatic conditions affected tree-ring development at the mesic site. Growth resilience to extreme events experienced site dependence, with edaphic drought exerting a stronger negative effect than atmospheric dry spells at the mesic stand. Our results underscore the importance of integrating short- and long-term drought assessment into P. pinea management strategies and support the potential of stone pine plantations in extra-Mediterranean South America for sustainable forestry under changing climatic conditions.
Highlights:
First dendrochronological assessment of Pinus pinea in Central-Western Argentina.
Radial growth shows site-specific sensitivity to drought types: limited by early-summer atmospheric drought at the xeric site and by late-season soil moisture deficit at the mesic site.
Irrigation does not fully decouple tree growth from climate, underscoring the need for precise water management in future plantations under semi-arid climates.
Full resilience to extreme drought is low (≤50%), with edaphic drought exerting a stronger negative impact than atmospheric drought, particularly at the mesic stand.
pinea demonstrates high potential for forestry diversification in semi-arid regions of South America, offering an alternative for sustainable nut and wood production.Forests play a crucial role in ecological stability, carbon sequestration, habitat provision and economy. As climate change intensifies, increasing drought frequency and severity challenge our understanding of forest resilience. Based on this premise, we examined radial growth dynamics and drought response of Pinus pinea L. in Mendoza Province in both mesic and xeric conditions. Using dendrochronological techniques, we assessed the long and short-term effects of soil and atmospheric drought on radial growth trends at two irrigated plantations with contrasting environments. Growth dynamics reflected differences in soil, climate, and irrigation. Growth rates were significantly higher at the mesic stand, which received nearly twice the precipitation and irrigation compared to xeric one. In contrast, growth at the xeric site was strongly limited by early-summer atmospheric drought, while late-growing season soil moisture and climatic conditions affected tree-ring development at the mesic site. Growth resilience to extreme events experienced site dependence, with edaphic drought exerting a stronger negative effect than atmospheric dry spells at the mesic stand. Our results underscore the importance of integrating short- and long-term drought assessment into P. pinea management strategies and support the potential of stone pine plantations in extra-Mediterranean South America for sustainable forestry under changing climatic conditions.
Highlights:
First dendrochronological assessment of Pinus pinea in Central-Western Argentina.
Radial growth shows site-specific sensitivity to drought types: limited by early-summer atmospheric drought at the xeric site and by late-season soil moisture deficit at the mesic site.
Irrigation does not fully decouple tree growth from climate, underscoring the need for precise water management in future plantations under semi-arid climates.
Full resilience to extreme drought is low (≤50%), with edaphic drought exerting a stronger negative impact than atmospheric drought, particularly at the mesic stand.
pinea demonstrates high potential for forestry diversification in semi-arid regions of South America, offering an alternative for sustainable nut and wood production.