Ligninolytic enzymes profiling in association with the aggressiveness of Ganoderma boninense isolates

Aims@#This study was designed to examine the enzyme activity of selected virulent isolates of Ganoderma boninense against oil palm. In a separate in vitro assessment, the effect of macronutrients on the mycelial growth of four selected Ganoderma spp. was also tested.@*Methodology and results@#The study involved a comparison of ligninolytic enzymes; lignin peroxidase (LiP), manganese peroxidase (MnP) and laccase (Lac) profiling of eight isolates of G. boninense, categorized into three levels of aggressiveness, with two control isolates (G. boninense PER71 and G. tornatum NPG1) using solid-state fermentation (SSF). The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that the isolates had a significant production of ligninolytic enzymes on day 80. The most aggressive isolate, ET61 had the highest Lac production. As for the macronutrient test, mycelial growth for all the Ganoderma spp. was highly affected by potassium (K).@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#The findings of this study elucidated the characteristics of G. boninense in relation to enzyme production for the degradation of oil palm lignin and the identification of essential nutrients involved in the survival and growth of Ganoderma spp. The study provides vital information on the pathogenic characteristics of G. boninense isolates involved in biomass degradation along with the role of nutrient on the growth of Ganoderma spp. that may influence basal stem rot (BSR) management in the field.

A potential mating-type biomarker to detect pathogenic Ganoderma species

Aims@#The basal stem rot disease in oil palm is caused by the pathogenic Ganoderma boninense, which is infectious after mating and forming dikaryotic hyphae. This study was aimed to generate a mating-type biomarker for the detection of pathogenic Ganoderma species.@*Methodology and results@#Mating-type region of Ganoderma was amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and primers flanking the mating-type region of other basidiomycetes. Amplified fragments were sequenced and were identified as the Ganoderma pheromone receptor gene of matB locus called the gprb2 gene. Using this biomarker, the pheromone receptor gene was detected in a total of 107 pathogenic Ganoderma spp. while the gene was not detected in the non-pathogenic Ganoderma lucidum. Phylogenetic tree analyses of the gene fragment encoding the partial amino acid sequence of gprb2 showed clades of close evolutionary relationship among the 107 pathogenic Ganoderma spp. Phylogenetic analyses using deduced amino acid sequences of the Ganoderma pheromone receptor b2 gene, gprb2 with homologous pheromone receptors of other basidiomycetous fungi revealed high conservation of this pheromone receptor within their respective taxonomy.@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#A potential mating-type biomarker was successfully identified that could detect pathogenic Ganoderma spp. The research findings will be helpful in oil palm screening to detect pathogenic Ganoderma spp. and gain further insight into the role of the mating-type loci of Ganoderma towards its pathogenesis in causing the basal stem rot disease of oil palm.

Oil palm intercropping system: A potential nature-based solution to improve soil biology activities in North Sumatra plantation, Indonesia

Aims@#Intercropping system in oil palm plantation is recognized as one of a nature-based solution as well as a promising sustainable practice. This study aimed to observe the advantages of existing intercropping system in one of North Sumatra’s oil palm plantation. It is achieved by analyzing the population of soil bacteria and fungi in oil palm intercropping fields with sorghum and cassava, compared with the non-intercropping field that using Mucuna bracteata (MB) as a common legume cover crop in oil palm plantations.@*Methodology and results@#Soil samples were collected from the weeded circle and windrow area (the area between palms within the row). The results showed that the highest and the lowest soil bacteria populations were in sorghum (1.7 ± 1.4 × 108 CFU/g) and MB (1.7 ± 0.4 × 107 CFU/g), while the highest and the lowest soil fungi populations were in sorghum (4.3 ± 2.9 × 106 CFU/g) and cassava (2.1 ± 0.8 × 106 CFU/g).@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#The intercropping system in this study showed a significant difference in the bacteria population, while the fungi population had no difference compared to the non-intercropping system. The bacterial and fungi population results also indicate that the intercropping system potentially enhances the soil's biological activity as an indicator of improved soil health. It is also followed by a slightly higher soil organic carbon value in intercropping system. This research suggests that further studies should be done to identify specific soil functional microbes (nutrients fixers and solubilizers). The future research will be used as a reference for promising biofertilizer agents in supporting sustainable crop production.

Identification of entomopathogenic fungi Metarhizium anisopliae and Purpureocillium lilacinum from oil palm plantation soils in Universiti Putra Malaysia

Aims@#Insect pests are one of the major constraints of oil palm production in Malaysia. However, synthetic chemical insecticides are the most common method for its control, despite their negative effects on non-target organisms and the development of resistance. Therefore, the present study is aimed to identify novel indigenous isolates of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) in oil palm soil as part of integrated pest management (IPM) of oil palm insect pests.@*Methodology and results@#The potential of EPF were isolated from the soil collected from the oil palm plantation in UPM using a mealworm beetle larva (Tenebrio molitor) as an insect bait. Seven Metarhizium anisopliae and two Purpureocillium lilacinum isolates were identified by morphological characterization (macroscopic and microscopic observation) and molecular identification using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region (ITS region amplification).@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#To our knowledge, this is the first time P. lilacinum has been found in the soil of an oil palm plantation or any other host in Malaysia. Furthermore, both of the isolates M. anisopliae and P. lilacinum may be potentially considered as biological control candidates for major insect pests in oil palm.

Oil palm age and genotype interfere with defoliator lepidopteran infestation

The state of Pará has oil palm plantings of different ages and distinct genotypes. The understanding of which factors influence the occurrence and abundance of defoliating caterpillars in palm groves is paramount for control strategies based on integrated pest management (IPM). This study quantified the effect of oil palm age independently, and that of oil palm age and genotype, on the occurrence and abundance of defoliating caterpillars. Data were collected from 1994­2014 and consisted of counting the average number of caterpillars/leaf/parcel. For Opsiphanes invirae and Talima sp., leaf 17 was sampled; for Acharia spp., Euclea sp., Euprosterna elaeasa, Natada sp., and Automeris liberia, leaf 25 was sampled. For Oiketicus kirbyi, Antaeotricha sp., and Brassolis sophorae no specific leaf was considered. Palm trees were classified into three groups: young palm trees (0­8 years after planting), adult palm trees (9­19 years after planting), and old palm trees (over 20 years after planting). Talima sp. showed the highest population peak followed by O. invirae, Acharia spp., Elaeis elaeasa and Euclea sp. This study concludes that genotype has an impact on the infestation by defoliating caterpillars. Also, oil palms at reproductive age are more prone to higher infestation levels than young trees. While population levels of defoliating caterpillars are low in general, outbreaks are frequent. Importantly, intraspecific genotypes are more vulnerable than interspecific genotypes to infestations by defoliating caterpillars. This study contributes to the bioecological knowledge on defoliating caterpillars on oil palm and therefore provides important information to strengthen integrated pest management practices.

Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Oil Palm Plantation Soil: A New Lead in Forensic Investigation (Ciri-ciri Fizikal dan Kimia Tanah Ladang Kelapa Sawit: Petunjuk Baru dalam Penyiasatan Forensik) / Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia

@#Soil sample is one of the important evidence that can be found in crime scene. Unknown soil sample can be analysed and compared with reference sample in order to determine the origin as its physical and chemical components possess unique characteristics. The purpose of this study is to determine the physical and chemical characteristics of soil from oil palm plantations in Perak, Malaysia to assist forensic investigation. Total of 97 topsoil samples were collected from three different oil palm plantations in Perak. Particle size distribution was obtained using dry sieving technique and colour of soil sample was examined under three conditions that are dry, moist and ashed. Soil pH was measured using pH meter and percentage of composition of soil organic matter (SOM) was determined by weighing the sample before and after ignition. Result showed that the composition of particle size <0.18mm was within the range of 5.57-21.11% whereas for particle size between 0.18mm - 0.6mm was within 31.62 - 52.96% and 25.78-66.86% for particle size >0.6mm. The color mode of soil after oven dried, moistened and ashed was greyish brown (10YR 5/2), very dark greyish brown (10YR 3/2) and light yellowish brown (10YR 6/4) respectively. Soil pH was in the range of 5.79 – 6.70. The percentage of SOM was between 3.29 - 20.48%. The physical and chemical characteristics of soil analysed in this study from three different locations of oil palm plantations varied and it is possible to discriminate these locations based on the analysis highlighted in this study.

Identification of QTLs in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) using SSR markers through association mapping

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) is a perennial vegetable and a high oil-yielding crop (4–6 t/ha). There is a large scope for increasing the oil yield by selecting elite planting material for breeding programme in germplasm evaluation, characterization and utilization. In the present study, a diverse range of 150 oil palm genotypes were characterized using 12 quantitative variables with 54 genomic microsatellite markers. A wide variation was observed in the morphological traits among indigenous populations. Highly significant and positive correlations were observed between vegetative dry matter (VDM) and total dry matter (TDM) (0.862), and height and height increment (0.838). The first two principal component analyses explained 67.7% of total variation among morphological traits. The genotypes IC0610001-59 (Pune-2) and IC0610001-60 (Pune-2) were found highly promising based on less height increment, more TDM with high yield. For the mapping study, general linear model (GLM) approach, quantitative-trait loci (QTL) for annual height increment, number of bunches, bunch yield and bunch index were linked to simple-sequence repeat (SSR) loci mEgCIR3649 with phenotypic variance of 15.08, 10.43, 11.74, 15.39. TDM and VDM were linked to mEgCIR0192 (27.34 and 24.19%), mEgCIR3684 (16.84 and 18.30%), SPSC00163 (18.8 and 15.39%) and mEgCIR0555 (16.47 and 18.81%), with at a significant threshold (P) level of B0.001 and by mixed linear model (MLM) approach. TDM was linked to mEgCIR0555 with phenotypic variance of 20.72%, bunch yield and bunch index were linked to mEgCIR2813 at phenotypic variance of 17.11% and 12.88%, respectively, at a significant threshold (P) level of B0.01.

Effects Of Occupational Safety Practice And Supervisory Enforcement On The Safety Reporting: Exploratory Factor Analysis

@#This paper analyses the construct validity and reliability of a new developed questionnaire measuring the effects of the occupational safety practice and supervisory enforcement on the safety and health reporting among the oil palm labours. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted to determine the underlying dimensions between variables and refine the proposed theory. The EFA was performed using the statistical analysis software SPSS. The questionnaire for all constructs was designed by adopting and customizing questionnaires from previous studies and reviewed by the language, content and statistical experts before it was administered on 100 oil palm Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA) labours. All of the variables passed the Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity (p-value < 0.05) and the measure of sampling adequacy using Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO > 0.60). The Cronbach’s Alpha value for the occupational safety practices for Organizational Safety Support (OSS), Safety Knowledge and Emergency Trainings (SKET), Compliance to Safety and Health Regulations (CSHR), and the Safety Procedures and Risk Management (SPRM) components were 0.957, 0.957, 0.940 and 0.936 respectively. The Cronbach’s Alpha for the supervisory enforcement construct was 0.930, while the value for safety reporting was 0.976 for component 1 and 0.936 for component 2. The validity and reliability of the questionnaires to assess the effect of occupational safety practice and the supervisory enforcement on the safety and health reporting among the Malaysian oil palm labours is confirmed.

Distribución potencial del cerdo asilvestrado, Sus scrofa (Artiodactyla: Suidae) y el pecarí de collar, Pecari tajacu (Artiodactyla: Tayassuidae) en la región de Laguna de Términos, México

Introducción: La presencia de los cerdos asilvestrados (Sus scrofa) combinado con la fragmentación del hábitat presente en la región de Laguna de Términos, Campeche, puede generar cambios en los patrones de distribución y presencia de pecaríes de collar (Pecari tajacu). Objetivo: Evaluar el traslape o segregación espacial en la distribución de cerdos asilvestrados y pecaríes de collar mediante modelos de distribución potencial de ambas especies en la región de Laguna de Términos, Campeche. Métodos: Se generaron modelos de distribución potencial usando datos de presencia y variables antrópicas y bioclimáticas en Maxent. Resultados: Los modelos mostraron segregación espacial entre ambas especies. Los cerdos asilvestrados fueron positivamente influenciados por la cercanía a cultivos de palma de aceite (Elaeis guineensis) y por la precipitación estacional; la distribución potencial para pecaríes de collar estuvo positivamente correlacionada con la temperatura y la cobertura arbórea. Se confirmó la presencia de cerdos asilvestrados en Escárcega, Carmen, Candelaria y Palizada, en el estado de Campeche y en Balancán y Jonuta en el estado de Tabasco. Nuestros modelos predicen áreas potenciales para los cerdos asilvestrados principalmente en la Reserva de la Biosfera Pantanos de Centla en Tabasco y en áreas cercanas a la frontera con Guatemala. Discusión: Consideramos necesario implementar un plan de control para los cerdos asilvestrados, no solo en la región de Laguna de Términos, sino en áreas aledañas con la finalidad de impedir la expansión de su distribución y el desplazamiento de especies nativas como los pecaríes en otras áreas del sur del país.

Introduction: The presence of feral pigs (Sus scrofa) in addition to habitat fragmentation at Laguna de Términos, Campeche, could cause changes in the distribution patterns and presence of collared peccaries (Pecari tajacu). Objective: Modelling of potential distribution to assess the overlap or spatial segregation of both species at Laguna de Términos, Campeche. Methods: Potential distribution models were generated with presence data, anthropic and bioclimatic variables using the maximum entropy algorithm (Maxent). Results: The potential distribution models showed spatial segregation between both species. The presence of feral pigs was positively influenced by palm oil crops (Elaeis guineensis) proximity and seasonal rainfall; the potential distribution of collared peccaries was positively correlated with temperature and canopy coverage. Evidence of feral pigs presence was confirmed in Escárcega, Carmen, Candelaria and Palizada in Campeche state and in Balancán and Jonuta in Tabasco state. Our models predicted potential areas for feral pigs in Pantanos de Centla Biosphere Reserve in Tabasco and in areas near the Guatemalan border. Conclusions: We believe a control plan for feral pigs is needed, not only in Laguna de Términos region, but also in adjacent areas in order to prevent the range extension and displacement of native species such as peccaries in other areas in Southern Mexico.

Evaluation of Lysinibacillus SP, isolated from coptotermes curvignathus gut, for the delignification of oil palm residues / Avaliação de Lysinibacillus SP, isolado a partir do intestino de Coptotermes curvignathus, para a deslignificação de resíduos de óleo de palma (Dendê)

The application of ligninolytic bacteria and enzymes is a green pre-treatment alternative in the production of paper and biofuel from oil palm residues. In this study we investigated the ability of Lysinibacillus pakistanensis isolated from termite gut in degrading the lignin component of oil palm residues. The residues were biotreated with the bacterial strain in an aerated submerged fermentation system for 7 days at 30 , pH 7 and compared with untreated control. Enzyme activities were determined using specific substrates. Peak lignin peroxidase (377.6 U/L), manganese peroxidase (218.19 U/L), and laccase (405.4 U/L) activity were recorded after 4,4, and 5 days of incubation respectively, using oil palm leaf as substrates. Lignin loss of 4.5%, 5.7% and 6.6% in oil palm leaf, oil palm trunk and empty fruit bunch respectively was achieved after treatment with the microorganism. SEM images revealed structural changes in the cell wall of the residues. Pre-treatment with this bacterial strain has promising prospects of improving the efficiency of the pulping process in an environmentally safe manner.

A aplicação de bactérias e enzimas ligninolíticas é uma alternativa verde de pré-tratamento na produção de papel e biocombustível a partir de resíduos de óleo de palma. Neste estudo, investigamos a capacidade de Lysinibacillus pakistanensis isolado do intestino de cupins na degradação do componente de lignina dos resíduos de dendê. Os resíduos foram biotratados com a estirpe bacteriana num sistema de fermentação submersa arejado durante 7 dias a 30ºC, pH 7 e comparados com controle não tratado. As atividades enzimáticas foram determinadas usando substratos específicos. Pico de lignina peroxidase (377,6 U/L), peroxidase de manganês (218,19 U/L) e atividade de lacase (405,4 U/L) foram registradas após 4,4 e 5 dias de incubação, respectivamente, utilizando como substratos a folha da palmeira de dendê. A perda de lignina de 4,5%, 5,7% e 6,6% na folha da palmeira, no tronco do dendezeiro e cacho de frutas vazio, respectivamente, foi alcançada após o tratamento com o microorganismo. Imagens de MEV revelaram alterações estruturais na parede celular dos resíduos. O pré-tratamento com esta cepa bacteriana tem perspectivas promissoras de melhorar a eficiência do processo de polpação de maneira ambientalmente segura.

Giant rhinoceros beetle Golofa claviger (Linnaeus) (Coleoptera: Melolonthidae: Dynastini) is damaging North Brazilian oil palm plantations

ABSTRACT The oil palm is an economically important crop cultivated in the North of Brazil. Damage caused by insects is one of the main causes of reduced productivity for the oil palm. Before this research, only the beetles of the family Curculionidae were considered to be oil palm pests in Brazil. However, for the first time, we report on the damage caused by a giant rhinoceros beetle to oil palm plantations in Pará, Brazil. The beetle was identified as Golofa claviger (Linnaeus, 1771), which has a single record in Brazil (Pará) but is widely distributed in South America. The species occurs in an unprecedentedly high abundance of local specimens. The attacks are concentrated on the central cluster of young palms. Feeding behavior is identified as the main cause of the damage as the beetles use their mouthparts to rip the plant tissues, causing wedge-shaped cuts on young fronds that have not yet unfurled. After an attack, the leaflets of the unfurled fronds are partially destroyed.

Preliminary screening and characterization of fungi isolated from forest soil as biocontrol agent against Ganoderma boninense

Aims@#The objective of this study is to investigate the potential of fungi isolated from forest soil as biocontrol against Ganoderma boninense, the causal pathogen of basal stem rot disease in Elaeis guineensis Jacq. (oil palm). @*Methodology and results@#Total 195 isolates were isolated from 20 soil samples collected from Crocker Range of Sabah and 54 fungal isolates were identified with 14 of them showed Percentage Inhibition of Radial Growth (PIRG) greater than 50%. A potential fungi (F15) with PIRG of 84.85% was later identified as Penicillium simplicissimum using molecular technique. Microscopy examination on P. simplicissimum and G. boninense interaction showed the evidence on the damage of pathogen hyphae when challenged by P. simplicissimum. The secondary metabolites of P. simplicissimum which may possibly contribute to this observation were later extracted using hexane, ethyl acetate and acetone and the extracts were tested in agar dilution bioassay (0.2 mg/mL to 1.0 mg/mL) against the pathogen. Ethyl acetate extract gave the highest inhibition to G. boninense (14.12 % in 0.4 mg/mL of ethyl acetate extract). @*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#This is the first report, on the bioactivity of P. simplicissimum isolated from Crocker Range of Sabah against Ganoderma boninense, the causal pathogen of basal stem rot disease. Overall, our results indicated that P. simplicissimum has the potential to be further investigated as a biocontrol agent against G. boninense.

The arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonizing the roots of pre-nursery stage of oil palm seedlings: Elaeis guineensis in Malaysia

Aims@#Arbuscular mycorrhizal is an obligate mutualistic symbiosis fungus which survives by forming endomycorrhizal on plant roots. The arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are not host-specific, allowing them to form a mutualistic symbiosis with a wide range of host plants including oil palm. In Malaysia, the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are used as a growth enhancer for the oil palm: Elaeis guineensis. The arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are introduced only during transplantation to the field when the ages of the seedlings are approximately one year old. As such, this study is designed to investigate the ability of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi to form colonisation with pre-nursery oil palm seedlings. @*Methodology and results@#Here, the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi were introduced at the pre-nursery stage oil palm seedlings. After inoculation, the seedlings were harvested on different days, i.e. on day-3, day-7, day-14, day-21, day-40 and day-60 to determine the colonisation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. We found that the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are able to form a mycorrhizal association with the oil palm seedling at the pre-nursery stage after 40 days of inoculation, and the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi that formed the association are Glomus sp. and Scutellospora sp. @*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#This study suggested that the oil palm seedling can be made into a mycorrhizal plant as early as the nursery stage before transplanting them into the plantation.

Impacts of Elevated CO2 on Growth, Carbohydrate Assimilation and Nutrient Uptake of Elaeis guineesis Jacq Seedlings

Aims: This study was conducted to characterize the growth patterns of tenera oil palm seedlings performance (Deli AVROS) under elevated CO2, that is expected to increase in the future due to climate change. Study Design: The palms were exposed to three carbon enrichment treatments: (1) ambient CO2 (400 ppm); (2) twice ambient CO2 (800 ppm), and (3) thrice ambient CO2 (1200 ppm). Randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications was used during the experiment using Deli AVROS seedlings. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biology, Faculty of Science Universiti Putra Malaysia from March 2017 to December 2017. Methodology: Carbon dioxide enrichment treatments started when seedlings reached three months old by exposing them to three levels of CO2, i.e., ambient CO2 (400 ppm), twice ambient CO2 (800 ppm) and thrice ambient CO2 (1,200 ppm). Growth, carbohydrate and macronutrients properties were measured at the end of the treatment period of 3 months. Results: It was found that CO2 had the greatest influence on the growth over the three months’ period of experiment. As the level of CO2 increased, from 400>800>1200 ppm, the plant height, number of frond per plant, basal diameter, leaf area per seedling, root biomass, total dry matter, net assimilation rate (NAR) and relative growth rate (RGR) was significant increased between the CO2 levels. The enhanced plant growth under elevated CO2 might be contributed by increased in production of total non-structural carbohydrate (TNC) of the palm under elevated CO2. The increased in TNC exposed to elevated CO2 was supported by increase in sucrose and starch content under these conditions. More sucrose was available than starch indicate that no feedback inhibition was occurred and the palm have enough sink strength to cope with elevated CO2. The macronutrients contents (N, P, K, Ca, Mg) also was found to be reduced under elevated CO2 treatments, indicated that growth enhancement under elevated have dilute the nutrient content in the palms. Conclusion: In conclusion, the growth of oil palm seedlings was enhanced with elevated CO2 at double and triple concentration than the ambient. It was found that the increase might be due to increase in production of total non-structural carbohydrate. The enhanced growth also increased the macronutrient demands under the elevated levels of CO2. This show in future the palm needs more fertilizers with enhanced levels of elevated CO2.

Micronutrients content in Pueraria phaseoloides L. on soils under oil palm plantations in Tailândia, state of Pará / Acúmulo de micronutrientes em Kudzu tropical (Pueraria phaseoloides L) em solos sob plantações de dendê em Tailândia ­ Pará

The adoption of cover crops in commercial plantations has been shown to be an alternative to promote greater soil protection, enhancement in its structure and aggregation, optimization of accumulation and nutrient cycling to obtain greater production of biomass and higher nitrogen fixation. To determine the accumulation of micronutrients of Pueraria phaseoloides L., according to age, established as a soil cover in industrial oil palm crops, an experiment was carried out at Companhia Agroindustrial (CRAI) in the municipality of Tailândia, State of Pará, in an Oxisol. The experimental design was a randomized block with four replicates. The results allow to conclude that the accumulation of nutrients, except for Mn and Cu in the live Pueraria phaseoloides L. plant cover reduced over the years and those of B, Mn, Zn, and Cu were greater in the dead Pueraria phaseoloides L. plant cover and for Cl it was in the live Pueraria phaseoloides L. plant cover. The decreasing order of total micronutrient extraction was the following: Cl> Mn> B> Zn> Cu.

A adoção de plantas de cobertura em plantios comerciais tem se mostrado uma alternativa para promover ao solo maior proteção, melhorias em sua estrutura e agregação e otimização de acúmulo e ciclagem de nutrientes visando maior produção de biomassa e maior fixação de N2. Com o objetivo de determinar o acúmulo de micronutrientes puerária (Pueraria phaseoloides L.), em função da idade, estabelecida como cobertura de solo em plantações industriais de dendezeiros, instalou-se experimento na Companhia Real Agroindustrial (CRAI) no município de Tailândia, Estado do Pará, em Latossolo Amarelo. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos ao acaso com quatro repetições. Os resultados permitem concluir que: o acúmulo de nutrientes com exceção do Mn e Cu na cobertura verde de Pueraria phaseoloides L., reduziu com o decorrer dos anos; os de B, Mn, Zn e Cu foram maiores na cobertura morta, enquanto que o de Cl na cobertura verde. A ordem decrescente da extração total de micronutrientes foi: Cl > Mn > B > Zn > Cu.

Validation of the sampling methodology for Opsiphanes invirae caterpillars on oil palm plantations in the Brazilian Amazon / Validação da metodologia de amostragem para lagartas de Opsiphanes invirae em plantios de palma de óleo na Amazônia brasileira

ABSTRACT: This study validated the use of leaf 17 on the sampling of Opsiphanes invirae Hübner (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) through the quantification of caterpillar abundance on the different spirals leaves, in comparison to leaf 17, and, on the apical, intermediate and basal leaf regions. This study was performed in the state of Pará, between March-2014 and March-2015. Results confirmed that leaf 17 is the most adequate method for monitoring this defoliator pest.

RESUMO: Esta pesquisa validou a utilização da folha 17, nas amostragens de Opsiphanes invirae Hübner )Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae), através da quantificação da abundância de lagartas nas diferentes folhas que compõem os espirais em comparação com a folha 17, e, em diferentes regiões da folha (apical, intermediária e basal). O estudo foi realizado no Pará entre março de 2014 e março de 2015. Os resultados confirmam que a folha 17 é a mais adequada para ser utilizada no monitoramento desse desfolhador.

Efecto de la estructura del cultivo de palma de aceite Elaeis guineensis (Arecaceae) sobre la diversidad de aves en un paisaje de la Orinoquía colombiana / Effect of Oil Palm crop structure Elaeis guineensis (Arecaceae) on bird diversity in a tropical landscape of Colombian Orinoquia

Resumen La expansión del cultivo de palma de aceite ha ocasionado cambios drásticos en los hábitats naturales y modificado la estructura de la vegetación, reduciendo el hábitat disponible para las especies de aves nativas. Se estudiaron las aves asociadas a lotes de palma de aceite de diferentes clases de alturas en el piedemonte de la Orinoquia colombiana, entre agosto 2013 y febrero 2014. Las clases de altura fueron tres: pequeña hasta seis metros, mediana hasta 10 metros y grande hasta15 metros, en cada lote se censaron las aves mediante transectos lineales y se comparó la composición, riqueza, abundancia y describió la estructura de grupos tróficos. Registramos 468 individuos de 44 especies y 23 familias. Gymnomystax mexicanus, Crotophaga ani y Milvago chimachima fueron las especies más abundantes, las dos primeras representan el 4.5 % de las especies abundantes, el 25 % tuvo abundancias intermedias y el 70.4 % fueron especies raras en el área del cultivo. En términos de la abundancia proporcional de especies de aves, las palmas grandes y medianas fueron más parecidas. La comunidad de aves encontrada en parcelas de palma grande tuvo mayor diversidad y uniformidad (2.63 y 0.8907, respectivamente), mientras que en las palmas pequeñas hubo mayor dominancia y abundancia de individuos (0.1825 y 252, respectivamente). En todo el cultivo predominaron aves insectívoras y carnívoras, las cuales tuvieron mayor afinidad por palmas pequeñas y grandes. La palma de aceite puede funcionar como un hábitat favorable para un bajo número de especies de amplia distribución y la altura no parece ser una variable que beneficie de manera significativa la composición, riqueza y abundancia de las especies de aves asociadas a la plantación.

Abstract The expansion of oil palm plantations has caused drastic changes in natural ecosystems and modifications in the vegetation structure, reducing available habitat for native bird species. We studied birds associated with oil palm plantations plots of different palm size classes, in the foothills of the Colombian Orinoquia region, from August 2013 and February 2014. The palm size clases were three: small up to 6 m height; medium up to 10 m; and large up to 15 m; in each plot we counted birds through line transects, and compared their bird composition, richness, and abundance, and described trophic group structure. We recorded a total of 468 individuals, belonging to 44 bird species and 23 families. Gymnomystax mexicanus, Crotophaga ani and Milvago chimachima were the most abundant species, the first tow representing 4.5 % of the abundant species; 25 % had intermediate abundances and 70.4 % were rare in the plantations area. In terms of the abundance of bird species, medium and large palms plots were more similar. Bird community found in plots with large palms had the highest diversity and uniformity (2.63 and 0.8907, respectively), while in those of small palms it was a greater dominance and abundance of individual birds (0.1825 and 252, each one). For the entire plantation, insectivorous and carnivorous birds predominated, and had greater association with small and large palms. Oil palm stands serve as suitable habitats for a small number of widespread bird species, and the height does not seem to be an important factor, that may meaningfully benefit the composition, richness and abundance of bird species associated with the plantations.

Artificial symbiotic association and growth induction of embryogenic calli (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) inoculated with Herbaspirillum seropedicae (Z78)

Aims: The purpose of this experiment was to determine the artificial symbiosis interaction of Herbaspirillum seropedicae (Z78) on oil palm embryogenic calli. Methodology and results: For this purpose, symbiotic associations were established between Z78 and embryogenic calli of oil palm tissue cultured. A total of five treatments involved, in particular: i) + 3.0 mg/L 2,4-D + 100% N MS medium (control), ii) + Z78 pellet cells (1 mL) + 25% N MS medium, iii) + Z78 supernatant (1 mL) + 25% N MS medium, iv) + Z78 broth culture (1 mL) + 25% N MS medium, and v) + Z78 sonicated cells (1 mL) + 25% N MS medium. All treatments were supplied with minimal N sources (25% N), ammonium nitrate and potassium nitrate, while the control was treated with 100% N sources. Treated samples were harvested on D80 and observed for biomass and diameter increment (%), formation of embryoids, and Z78 colonization. The results showed embryogenic calli in the inoculated treatments that contained depleted N produced similar result to the control treatment which contained 100% N nutrients. Positive interactions occurred between the diazotroph and host plant tissues as viewed under FESEM and EFTEM. Among the treatments, Z78 sonicated cell showed better growth of embryogenic calli compared to others. Conclusion, significance and impact study: The in vitro nitrogen-depleted artificial symbiosis environment allowed the diazotroph (Z78) to be expressed and provide the nitrogen sources and indole-3-acetic acid for cell growth. This study represents beneficial co-culture interaction effects of different inocula of diazotrophic bacterial cells with in vitro embryogenic calli of oil palm.

Developing ergonomics intervention for improving safety & health among smallholders in Melaka oil palm plantation: a participatory action oriented approach

In the Malaysia Economic Transformation Programmed (ETP) launched on 2010, palm oil industry has been highlighted as one of the key sector towards national economic development. There are a lot of concerns directed towards safety and health in the agricultural sectors where oil palm plantations are the main agricultural sectors in Malaysia. Correspondingly, several tasks by the small holders in the oil palm plantation have been shown to lead to musculoskeletal disorders which are attributed to various safety and health issues. This study intends to determine the effects of ergonomics interventions approach, highly promoted by International Labor Organization to resolve ergonomics issues specifically among oil palm plantation small holders and to improve Occupational Safety and Health aspects of the workplace. The study will be divided into two phases, the first phase of the cross-sectional design which will involve 360 male respondents working as small holders in the oil palm plantation. Questionnaires will be used to collect information on socio demographic data, occupational history, social lifestyle and prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) data. The second phase of the intervention study (Quasi Experimental) involve intervention program based on Participatory Action Oriented Training (PAOT) approach using qualitative observation and quantitative results of analysis during the first phase. A training program consisting of 3 primary instruments (lecture, action checklist and video), reinforcing activities (to increase knowledge, enhance understanding and associate practical application) and indicators (questionnaires and qualitative observation) were created, modified and customized to the small holders’ working in oil palm plantation. Palm oil industry provides job opportunity for more than half a million people and living opportunity for more than 1 million people (MPOB, 2011). Improving safety & health for the small holders in the oil palm plantations become the overall outcome of the ergonomics intervention. Specifically, the ergonomics Intervention will be expected to increase Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) among the small holders, to be used as a program for occupational safety & health improvement in oil palm plantations around Melaka as well as to reduce risk of developing Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) due to small holder’s multi task in the oil palm plantations. As the current knowledge gap of agricultural workers such as small holders remains wide in terms of safety and health, awareness among the small holders in the rural areas is low. In addition, focus of research was generally low on agricultural workers especially of health components further increasing the knowledge gap and status of health of agricultural workers or specifically small holders in Malaysia.

Ergonomic risk assessment of manual handling tools by oil palm collectors and loaders

Oil palm workers are exposed to ergonomics problems in their routine works. Although many technological advances have been developed, a large number of workers are still using manual handling tools in their daily work. A study was done to identify and solve the problems or issues of material handling effect on oil palm collectors and loaders during their daily work activities. A cross sectional study was done in an oil palm plantation in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. Twenty five workers were selected randomly to participate in this study. Musculoskeletal symptoms were recorded using Modified Nordic Questionnaires and awkward postures of the workers were assessed using Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). Result showed that 61% of workers were exposed to high risk level and 39% to very high risk level of working posture problems. In conclusion, majority of oil palm collectors and loaders need to correct their working posture as soon as possible. The manual handling activities need to be improved with respect to correct procedure for health and safety concerns.