El árbol Acacia mangium (Fabaceae) facilita la recuperación de áreas mineras en la selva lluviosa del Chocó, Colombia

Introducción: Las áreas impactadas por minería en bosques tropicales requieren de la aplicación de estrategias de restauración ecológica, pero este proceso, muchas veces involucra el uso de especies vegetales exóticas, desconociendo los efectos sobre la regeneración ecológica de los sitios donde se introducen. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de las plantaciones de Acacia mangium (planta exótica) sobre la rehabilitación ecológica temprana (suelo y vegetación) de áreas impactadas por minería de oro a cielo abierto en la selva pluvial tropical del Chocó, Colombia. Métodos: Se seleccionaron 16 áreas mineras como unidades de muestreo (ocho reforestadas con A. mangium y ocho en sucesión natural) en dos localidades. En cada unidad de muestreo se estableció una parcela de 2 × 50 m (cuatro parcelas por escenario de muestreo y localidad), donde se analizó la fertilidad del suelo (parámetros físicos y químicos) y se cuantificó el número de individuos de cada especie de planta vascular. Resultados: Se registraron 73 especies (69 géneros, 45 familias). La densidad de individuos fue mayor en áreas de sucesión natural que en aquellas reforestadas con A. mangium; por el contrario, la riqueza y diversidad de especies fueron superiores bajo las plantaciones de A. mangium. La similitud florística fue baja entre escenarios sucesionales (especies compartidas 35.6 %). El suelo mostró mejores condiciones (especialmente, N-NHO3) en áreas con A. mangium que en áreas en regeneración natural. Conclusiones: Las plantaciones de A. mangium parecen facilitar la rehabilitación temprana de la fertilidad del suelo y la vegetación en las minas abandonadas; por lo tanto, esta especie puede jugar un papel importante para la implementación de estrategias de restauración ecológica de áreas impactadas por minería de oro a cielo abierto en el Chocó y otros sistemas forestales tropicales con condiciones ambientales y de perturbación similares.

Introduction: Mining-impacted areas in tropical forests require the application of ecological restoration strategies, but this process often involves use of exotic plant species ignoring the effects on the ecological regeneration of the sites where they are introduced. Objective: To evaluate the effect of Acacia mangium plantations (exotic plant) on early ecological rehabilitation (soil and vegetation) of areas impacted by open-pit gold mining in the tropical rain forest of Chocó, Colombia. Methods: 16 mining areas were selected as sampling units (eight reforested with A. mangium and eight in natural succession) in two locations. In each sampling unit, a 2 × 50 m plot was established (four plots per sampling scenario and locality), where soil fertility (physical and chemical parameters) was analyzed and the number of individuals of each vascular plant species was quantified. Results: 73 species (69 genera, 45 families) were recorded. The density of individuals was higher in areas of natural succession than in those reforested with A. mangium; conversely, species richness and diversity were higher under the A. mangium plantations. Floristic similarity was low between successional scenarios (shared species 35.6 %). The soil showed better conditions (especially N-NHO3) in mining areas with A. mangium than in those in natural regeneration. Conclusions: A. mangium plantations appears to facilitate the early rehabilitation of soil fertility and vegetation in abandoned mines; therefore, this species can play an important role in the implementation of ecological restoration strategies in areas impacted by open-pit gold mining in the Chocó and other tropical forest systems with similar environmental and disturbance conditions.

Nest refuse of Acromyrmex balzani (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) increases the plant vigor in Turnera subulata (Turneraceae) / O substrato de descarte de Acromyrmex balzani (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) aumenta o vigor da planta Turnera subulata (Turneraceae)

Abstract Some studies report the positive effect of organic residues from ant nests on soil properties and on the structure of the adjacent plant community in field experiments, but there is a gap about the effect on individual species. The purpose of the present study was to compare the soil nutrient content and the development of Turnera subulata Smith, an ornamental species, in the presence of the nest refuse (basically composed of fragments of grass leaves and the symbiotic fungus) produced by the leaf-cutting ant Acromyrmex balzani (Emery, 1890) or in control soil through a greenhouse pot experiment. The experiment was carried out with two treatments: control soil and soil with 25% of nest refuse. The plants were kept in 1L pots for 90 days. We evaluated the parameters: plant height, stem diameter, root length, number of leaves, dry weight of the root, dry and fresh aboveground biomass. Additionally, the relative chlorophyll content and leaf nutrients were used as nutritional parameters. As a result, plants that grew in the soil with nest refuse showed significant higher values of all parameters evaluated when compared to the control treatment (p < 0.001). We conclude that this biofertilizer contributed to the production of more vigorous plants, being able to act on the local dynamics of nutrients in the ecosystems where A. balzani occurs. As it is relatively abundant and easy to collect, the refuse of A. balzani has the potential to be used as an alternative substrate in the production of shortlife cycle plants.

Resumo Alguns estudos relatam o efeito positivo de resíduos orgânicos de formigueiros nas propriedades do solo e na estrutura da comunidade de plantas adjacentes em experimentos de campo, mas há uma lacuna sobre o efeito em espécies individuais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar o desenvolvimento de Turnera subulata Smith, uma espécie ornamental, na presença do substrato de descarte (SD) de formigueiros produzido pela formiga cortadeira Acromyrmex balzani (Emery, 1890) por meio de experimento em casa de vegetação. O experimento foi conduzido com dois tratamentos: solo controle e solo com 25% de SD. As plantas foram mantidas em vasos de 1L por 90 dias. Foram avaliados os parâmetros: altura da planta, diâmetro do caule, comprimento da raiz, número de folhas, massa seca da raiz, biomassa seca e fresca da parte aérea. Além disso, o conteúdo relativo de clorofila e os nutrientes foliares foram usados como parâmetros fisiológicos. Como resultado, as plantas que cresceram no solo com SD apresentaram valores significativamente maiores de todos os parâmetros avaliados quando comparadas ao tratamento controle (p < 0.001). Concluímos que esse biofertilizante contribuiu para a produção de plantas mais vigorosas, podendo atuar na dinâmica local de nutrientes nos ecossistemas onde A. balzani ocorre. Além disso, por ser relativamente abundante e fácil de coletar, o SD de A. balzani tem potencial para ser utilizado como biofertilizante na produção de plantas de ciclo de vida curta.

Nest refuse of Acromyrmex balzani (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) increases the plant vigor in Turnera subulata (Turneraceae) / O substrato de descarte de Acromyrmex balzani (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) aumenta o vigor da planta Turnera subulata (Turneraceae)

Some studies report the positive effect of organic residues from ant nests on soil properties and on the structure of the adjacent plant community in field experiments, but there is a gap about the effect on individual species. The purpose of the present study was to compare the soil nutrient content and the development of Turnera subulata Smith, an ornamental species, in the presence of the nest refuse (basically composed of fragments of grass leaves and the symbiotic fungus) produced by the leaf-cutting ant Acromyrmex balzani (Emery, 1890) or in control soil through a greenhouse pot experiment. The experiment was carried out with two treatments: control soil and soil with 25% of nest refuse. The plants were kept in 1L pots for 90 days. We evaluated the parameters: plant height, stem diameter, root length, number of leaves, dry weight of the root, dry and fresh aboveground biomass. Additionally, the relative chlorophyll content and leaf nutrients were used as nutritional parameters. As a result, plants that grew in the soil with nest refuse showed significant higher values of all parameters evaluated when compared to the control treatment (p < 0.001). We conclude that this biofertilizer contributed to the production of more vigorous plants, being able to act on the local dynamics of nutrients in the ecosystems where A. balzani occurs. As it is relatively abundant and easy to collect, the refuse of A. balzani has the potential to be used as an alternative substrate in the production of shortlife cycle plants.

Alguns estudos relatam o efeito positivo de resíduos orgânicos de formigueiros nas propriedades do solo e na estrutura da comunidade de plantas adjacentes em experimentos de campo, mas há uma lacuna sobre o efeito em espécies individuais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar o desenvolvimento de Turnera subulata Smith, uma espécie ornamental, na presença do substrato de descarte (SD) de formigueiros produzido pela formiga cortadeira Acromyrmex balzani (Emery, 1890) por meio de experimento em casa de vegetação. O experimento foi conduzido com dois tratamentos: solo controle e solo com 25% de SD. As plantas foram mantidas em vasos de 1L por 90 dias. Foram avaliados os parâmetros: altura da planta, diâmetro do caule, comprimento da raiz, número de folhas, massa seca da raiz, biomassa seca e fresca da parte aérea. Além disso, o conteúdo relativo de clorofila e os nutrientes foliares foram usados como parâmetros fisiológicos. Como resultado, as plantas que cresceram no solo com SD apresentaram valores significativamente maiores de todos os parâmetros avaliados quando comparadas ao tratamento controle (p < 0.001). Concluímos que esse biofertilizante contribuiu para a produção de plantas mais vigorosas, podendo atuar na dinâmica local de nutrientes nos ecossistemas onde A. balzani ocorre. Além disso, por ser relativamente abundante e fácil de coletar, o SD de A. balzani tem potencial para ser utilizado como biofertilizante na produção de plantas de ciclo de vida curta.

Nest refuse of Acromyrmex balzani (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) increases the plant vigor in Turnera subulata (Turneraceae)

Abstract Some studies report the positive effect of organic residues from ant nests on soil properties and on the structure of the adjacent plant community in field experiments, but there is a gap about the effect on individual species. The purpose of the present study was to compare the soil nutrient content and the development of Turnera subulata Smith, an ornamental species, in the presence of the nest refuse (basically composed of fragments of grass leaves and the symbiotic fungus) produced by the leaf-cutting ant Acromyrmex balzani (Emery, 1890) or in control soil through a greenhouse pot experiment. The experiment was carried out with two treatments: control soil and soil with 25% of nest refuse. The plants were kept in 1L pots for 90 days. We evaluated the parameters: plant height, stem diameter, root length, number of leaves, dry weight of the root, dry and fresh aboveground biomass. Additionally, the relative chlorophyll content and leaf nutrients were used as nutritional parameters. As a result, plants that grew in the soil with nest refuse showed significant higher values of all parameters evaluated when compared to the control treatment (p 0.001). We conclude that this biofertilizer contributed to the production of more vigorous plants, being able to act on the local dynamics of nutrients in the ecosystems where A. balzani occurs. As it is relatively abundant and easy to collect, the refuse of A. balzani has the potential to be used as an alternative substrate in the production of shortlife cycle plants.

Resumo Alguns estudos relatam o efeito positivo de resíduos orgânicos de formigueiros nas propriedades do solo e na estrutura da comunidade de plantas adjacentes em experimentos de campo, mas há uma lacuna sobre o efeito em espécies individuais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar o desenvolvimento de Turnera subulata Smith, uma espécie ornamental, na presença do substrato de descarte (SD) de formigueiros produzido pela formiga cortadeira Acromyrmex balzani (Emery, 1890) por meio de experimento em casa de vegetação. O experimento foi conduzido com dois tratamentos: solo controle e solo com 25% de SD. As plantas foram mantidas em vasos de 1L por 90 dias. Foram avaliados os parâmetros: altura da planta, diâmetro do caule, comprimento da raiz, número de folhas, massa seca da raiz, biomassa seca e fresca da parte aérea. Além disso, o conteúdo relativo de clorofila e os nutrientes foliares foram usados como parâmetros fisiológicos. Como resultado, as plantas que cresceram no solo com SD apresentaram valores significativamente maiores de todos os parâmetros avaliados quando comparadas ao tratamento controle (p 0.001). Concluímos que esse biofertilizante contribuiu para a produção de plantas mais vigorosas, podendo atuar na dinâmica local de nutrientes nos ecossistemas onde A. balzani ocorre. Além disso, por ser relativamente abundante e fácil de coletar, o SD de A. balzani tem potencial para ser utilizado como biofertilizante na produção de plantas de ciclo de vida curta.

Influence of spatial variability of soil chemical attributes on the nutritional status and growth of the rubber tree

The productive potential of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) is dependent on its genetic composition, in addition to edaphoclimatic factors and management practices. However, as soil properties are not homogenous, knowing the spatial variability of soil attributes would be important to increase productivity and reduce production costs. In this context, the objective of this study was to determine the spatial variability of chemical attributes of the soil and its influence on the nutritional status and growth of rubber tree clones. Clones FX 3864, FDR 5788, CDC 312, and RRIM 600 were planted at Jaturnaíba Farm, in the municipality of Silva Jardim, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. The sampling sites were distributed at a spacing of 20 × 20 m on the northern and southern sides of the relief. The chemical attributes of the soil (pH, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, P, Al3+, H+Al, sum of bases, cation exchange capacity, and base saturation) were evaluated at a depth of 0­20 cm in the different clone plantations. Additionally, the N, P, K, Ca, and Mg content as well as trunk circumference and total plant height, were also evaluated. Geostatistics was used to determine the spatial variability of the soil and clone attributes, while Ordinary Kriging was used to draw variability maps of the variables. A difference in the distribution of the variables, which was dependent on the slope of the relief, was detected through the maps. The southern side presented better conditions as some degradation was observed on the northern side. Certain soil characteristics influenced the distribution of the attributes of the planted clones; for example, the low concentration of Ca2+ in the soil caused Ca deficiency in the FX clone on the southern slope, indicating that liming did not supply enough nutrients for this clone. Our results showed that the variability in soil attributes influenced the nutritional status and growth of the rubber tree clones, indicating that variability maps can guide the planting and management of the rubber tree, providing more efficient management.

Liming and biochar on sorghum growth and Arenosol chemical properties in the Semiarid environment / Efeito da calagem e do biochar no crescimento do sorgo e nas propriedades químicas do Neossolo Quartzarênico no ambiente Semiárido

This research evaluated the effect of liming (with and without) and biochar (with and without) on sorghum cv. BRS Ponta Negra growth and Arenosol chemical properties in the Semiarid environment. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, with treatments in a 2x2 factorial scheme, corresponding to the application or not of lime (0 and 2.5 t ha-1) and biochar (0 and 12.5 t ha-1). Biochar was produced from cashew branches. The experiment was conducted in 16 m² plots where the forage sorghum cultivar BRS Ponta Negra was cultivated. The soil chemical characteristics, the production attributes, and the structural characteristics of the sorghum cultivar studied were evaluated. There was no interaction between factors. The use of biochar increased the pH and Ca and P contents in the soil and contributed to increasing the panicle mass (2.51 t ha-1 of DM). Lime application affected the soil Ca content as the dose of 2.5 t ha-1 resulted in higher values of culm diameter (15.25 mm), panicle mass, and culm mass (2.63 and 7.50 t ha-1 of DM, respectively). Therefore, these results allowed to outline strategies for the use of limestone and biochar for forage production in semiarid environments in sandy soils. Because, these materials improve some chemical attributes of the soil and the production of forage sorghum. It is noteworthy that edophoclimatic conditions can change the response patterns observed in this research. Therefore, research in other regions is essential.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito da calagem (com e sem) e do biocarvão (com e sem) sobre o crescimento e a produção de forragem do sorgo forrageiro cv. BRS Ponta Negra e nas propriedades químicas do Neossolo Quartzarênico no ambiente Semiárido. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com tratamentos em esquema fatorial 2x2, correspondendo a aplicação ou não do calcário (0 e 2,5 t ha-1) e do biocarvão (0 e 12,5 t ha-1). O biochar era produzido a partir de galhos de caju. O experimento foi conduzido em parcelas de 16 m² onde foi cultivada a cultivar de sorgo forrageiro BRS Ponta Negra. Foram avaliadas as características químicas do solo, os atributos de produção e as características estruturais da cultivar de sorgo estudada. Não houve interação entre os fatores. O uso do biochar aumentou o pH e os teores de Ca e P no solo e contribuiu para o aumento da massa da panícula (2,51 t ha-1 de MS). A aplicação de calcário afetou o teor de Ca no solo, assim a dose de 2,5 t ha-1 resultou em maiores valores de diâmetro do colmo (15,25 mm), massa da panícula e massa do colmo (2,63 e 7,50 t ha-1 de MS, respectivamente). Portanto, esses resultados permitem traçar estrategias de uso do calcário e biochar para produção forrageira em ambientes semiáridos com solos arenosos. Pois, esses materias melhoram alguns atributos quimicos do solo e a produção do sorgo forrageiro. Vale ressaltar que as condições edofoclimáticas podem alterar os padrões de resposta observados nesta pesquisa. Portanto, a pesquisa em outras regiões é essencial.

Response of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Soil Chemical Properties to Brachiaria decumbens Grass Production Technologies

HIGHLIGHTS Brachiaria decumbens pasture associated with kudzu Pueraria phaseloides legume represents an alternative for higher arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Higher lime doses presented high rates of AMF and improved soil chemical properties (SCP). Higher lime doses were the most influential technological factor than the type of pasture and the N, P, K fertilizer sources on AMF.

Abstract In order to improve the sustainability of livestock systems at Cumaral, Meta, under tropical conditions of Colombia, implementation of different Brachiaria decumbens production technologies can be beneficial for a better soil fertility. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of two pastures type (Factor A): (a) Brachiaria decumbens grass (B1) and Brachiaria decumbens grass associated with kudzu Pueraria phaseloides legume (B2); (b) Factor B: Four lime (CaCO3) doses: L0 = 0 tons ha-1, L1 = 1.1 tons ha-1, L2 = 2.2 tons ha-1 and L3 = 3.3 tons ha-1; and (c) Factor C: three N, P, K fertilizers sources: 100 kg ha-1 Urea, 200 kg ha-1 triple superphosphate (TSP) and 100 kg ha-1 potassium chloride (PCl) on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and soil chemical properties (SCP). Cluster analysis showed that B2*L3, L2*Urea, TSP, PCl increased the number of AMF spores per g soil and improved soil chemical properties (SCP), as B1*L3*Urea, TSP, PCl, in cluster 1, higher lime doses were the most influential factor, indistinctly pasture type, as N, P, K fertilizer sources showed low effect in cluster conformation. Farmers in the area can implement these B. decumbens technological practices that help improve the sustainability of livestock systems at tropical zones.

Corn (Zea mays L.) growth, nutrient uptake and soil fertility improvement of strongly acidic soil applied with biochar and animal manure

The effects of biochar and animal manure application on soil chemical properties, nutrient uptake, growth, andbiomass production of corn grown in strongly acidic soil were assessed in a pot experiment. The experimentwas laid out in randomized complete block design with the following treatments: (1) control; (2) 15 t chickenmanure (CM) ha−1; (3) 30 t CM ha−1; (4) 15 t carabao dung (CD) ha−1; (5) 30 t CD ha−1; (6) 15 t chickenmanure biochar (CMB) ha−1; (7) 30 t CMB ha−1; (8) 15 t carabao dung biochar (CDB) ha−1; and (9) 30 tCDB ha−1. Application of 30 t CM ha−1 significantly increased soil pH by 1.03-unit, total organic carbon,total N, and exchangeable K by 138%, 300%, and 955%, respectively, and a 108-fold increase in P, over thecontrol treatment. Similarly, the addition of CM at 15 t ha−1 significantly increased all soil chemical parametersgathered. Moreover, the addition of 15 t CM ha−1 increased plant height, shoot, and total biomass by 62%,161%, and 148% over the control treatment. Meanwhile, tissue N uptake of corn increased by 147% and 124%with the CM application at the rate of 15 t ha−1 and 30 t ha−1. Among organic materials evaluated, CM had themost superior influence on soil chemical properties, growth, biomass production, and plant nutrition.

Soil attributes and weed seedbank spatial correlation / Correlação espacial entre atributos físicos e químicos do solo e o banco de sementes de plantas infestantes

The crop yield potential is affected by the crop-weed competition and their control create a dependence on herbicide use who brings, as consequence, soil impacts. Knowing the weed's spatial distribution on the field is a feasible alternative for improving the crop yield. The goal of this paper is the identification of the spatial variability on physical and chemical attributes of soil as well as the weed's seedbank so that, when correlated, may find standards to help on field management. The experiment was conducted on Uberlandia Federal University premises at soybean no-till area. Using georeferenced soil samples, were analyzed the physical and chemical attributes as well as the weed's seedbank. The weed population on controlled environment was quantify, sorting out broadleaf and grassy weeds species. The obtained data were analyzed by descriptive statistic and geostatistics for a semivariogram modeling, interpolation by the kriging methodology and the spatial variability maps achievement. The average value, coefficient of variation (CV%), asymmetry, kurtosis coefficient and the significant linear correlations interfered on data spatial variability which we concluded by the spatial dependences on the attributes that had a linear correlation between them. The semivariograms presented varied range between 202 to 752 meters. Using the maps, verified two different regions for the broadleaf and grassy weeds seedbank. For both situations there was influence by the soil attributes on infestation level, which makes it possible to target the herbicide management reducing costs and the environmental impact. From the analyzed data we conclude that there is a spatial dependence for the physical and chemical soil attributes and their spatial distribution explains the weed seedbank spatial variability.

O potencial produtivo das culturas é afetado pela competição por plantas infestantes e o seu controle cria dependência no uso de herbicidas, com consequente impacto ao solo. Conhecer o comportamento espacial das espécies infestantes é alternativa viável no aumento do lucro das lavouras. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo identificar o comportamento espacial nos atributos físicos e químicos do solo e no banco de sementes de plantas infestantes, de maneira que, ao correlacioná-los possa-se encontrar padrões que auxiliem no manejo das áreas agrícolas. O estudo foi realizado em área pertencente à Universidade Federal de Uberlândia-MG em área cultivada com soja em plantio direto. A partir de amostragens georreferenciadas foi realizada avaliação química e física do solo e determinação do banco de sementes de plantas infestantes. Foi mensurado o número de plantas infestantes em ambiente controlado, separando as espécies germinadas em Folha Estreita e Folha Larga. Os dados foram avaliados pela estatística descritiva e geoestatística, para ajuste de semivariogramas, interpolação por krigagem e obtenção de mapas de distribuição espacial. Os valores de média, CV%, assimetria, curtose, e as correlações lineares significativas inferiram no comportamento espacial dos dados, comportamento verificado pela dependência espacial observada para os atributos com correlação linear significativa entre eles. Os semivariogramas apresentaram alcance variando entre 202 m e 752 m. A partir dos mapas verifica-se duas regiões distintas para o banco de plantas infestantes de folha estreita e larga. Para ambas situações houve contribuição dos atributos do solo nos níveis de infestação, o que possibilita o direcionamento no ajuste de doses herbicidas para redução de custos e impacto ambiental. A partir dos dados conclui-se que há comportamento espacial para atributos químicos e físicos de solo, e a sua distribuição espacial explica o comportamento espacial do banco de sementes de plantas infestantes.

Recovery of degraded area of Urochloa decumbens with turkey litter fertilizer / Recuperação de área degradada de urochloa decumbens adubando com cama de peru

The aimed of this study was to evaluate the effects of different dosages of turkey litter on soil's chemical attributes and yield of the Urochloa decumbens in classified as degraded pasture. The work was performed at the municipality of Mineiros-GO between October/2011 and September/2013 in Quartzipsamment soil. The treatments consisted in applications of 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 Mg ha-1 of turkey litter at a randomized-complete blocks design with four replications. Was evaluated the fodder's productivity and the following soil's chemical attributes: organic matter, hydrogenionic potential (CaCl2), phosphorus (resin), potassium, calcium, magnesium, cation exchange capacity and base saturation of soil. In general terms, the increase of turkey litter's doses increased the grass productivity and the supply of nutrients of the soil, maintaining the balance of the soil-plant system. The dosage of 12 Mg ha-1 year-1 of turkey litter ensure higher amounts in the soil's chemical attributes and in the productivity of dry mass of Urochloa decumbens.

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de diferentes doses de cama de peru nos atributos químicos do solo e na produtividade de pastagem degradada deUrochloa decumbens. O experimento foi conduzido no município de Mineiros, GO entre outubro/2011 a setembro/2013 em Neossolo Quartzarênico Órtico. Os tratamentos foram constituídos de aplicações de 0, 3, 6, 9 e 12 Mg ha-1 de cama de peru, no delineamento em blocos casualizados com quatro repetições. Foram avaliadas a produtividade de forragem e os atributos químicos do solo: matéria orgânica, potencial hidrogeniônico (CaCl2), fósforo (Resina), potássio, cálcio, magnésio, capacidade de troca catiônica e saturação por bases do solo. Em termos gerais, o aumento das doses de cama de peru proporcionou acréscimos na produtividade de capim e no aporte de nutrientes no solo, mantendo o equilíbrio do sistema solo-planta. Concluiu-se que a dose de 12 Mg ha-1 ano-1 de cama de peru garante maiores valores dos atributos químicos do solo e produtividade de massa seca da Urochloa decumbens.

Growth and physiology of annona squamosa l. under different irrigation depths and phosphate fertilization / Crescimento e fisiologia de mudas de Annona squamosa L. sob diferentes lâminas de irrigação e adubação fosfatada

This study aimed to evaluate the growth and physiology of Annona squamosa seedlings under increasing irrigation depths and phosphorus doses. The experiment was conducted in protected environment, evaluating five irrigation depths and four P2O5- doses, arranged in 5 x 4 factorial scheme, in randomized blocks, with four replicates and one plant per plot. Treatments were irrigation depths of 60, 80, 100, 120 and 140% of the real evapotranspiration of the seedlings ­ ETr and phosphorus doses of 0, 350, 700 and 1050 mg dm-3 of P2O5-. Plants were evaluated at 120 days after transplanting with respect to growth, gas exchanges, leaf water potential and total dry matter accumulation. Phosphorus dose of 350 mg dm-3 promotes satisfactory dry matter accumulation for A. squamosa seedlings, especially under 100% ETr irrigation. Leaf water potential and gas exchanges of A. squamosa are affected by water stress, through both lack and excess of water. Stomatal conductance is the variable most sensitive to the lack of water, whereas photosynthesis and water use efficiency are the most sensitive to the excess of water. Irrigation depth of 100% ETr is ideal to produce A. squamosa seedlings, but the irrigation depth of 80% ETr can be used to produce these seedlings, disregarding small losses of growth

Objetivou-se avaliar o crescimento e a fisiologia de mudas de A. squamosa sob lâminas crescentes de irrigação e doses de fósforo. O experimento foi conduzido em ambiente protegido, avaliando cinco lâminas de irrigação e quatro doses P2O5, arranjados em esquema fatorial 5 x 4, em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições e uma planta por parcela. Os tratamentos das lâminas foram 60, 80, 100, 120 e 140% da evapotranspiração real das mudas ­ ETr e as quatro doses de fósforo 0, 350, 700 e 1050 mg dm-3 de P2O5. As plantas foram avaliadas aos 120 dias após o transplantio, quanto ao crescimento, trocas gasosas, potencial hídrico foliar e acúmulo de matéria seca total. A dose de fósforo de 350 mg dm-3 proporciona acúmulo de matéria seca satisfatório para as mudas de A. squamosa, principalmente sob irrigação com 100% da ETr. O potencial hídrico foliar e as trocas gasosas da A. squamosa são afetadas pelo estresse hídrico, tanto por falta como por excesso de água, sendo a condutância estomática a variável mais sensível a falta de água e a fotossíntese e eficiência do uso da água as mais sensíveis ao excesso de água. A lâmina de 100% da ETr é a ideal para a produção de mudas de A. squamosa, porém a lamina de 80% da ETr pode ser utilizada para a produção de mudas de A. squamosa, admitindo-se pequenas perdas no crescimento.

Agronomic and Yield Characteristics of Grain Sorghum as Influenced by Environment Factors and Genotype

Genotypes tested in different locations, years or planting dates often change in yield due to the response of genotypes to environmental factors such as temperature, soil fertility etc. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the effects of environment factors on agronomic and yield characteristics of grain sorghum and to identify the most adapted B-line(s) to different environments in Egypt. Six environments with 25 sorghum B-lines were conducted at two locations (Giza and Shandaweel) in 2012 and 2013 years and two planting dates in Giza location. A randomised complete block design was used in each environment with three replications. Mean squares due to genotype × environment were significant for all studied traits. Increasing temperature from second planting date to first planting date in Giza across seasons caused the significant decrease in grain yield per plant (GYPP) by about 15.3%. This reduction in yield was associated with significant decreases in the number of grains/plant (GPP) (9.29%), plant height (PH) (7.31%) and days to 50% flowering (DTF) (6.92%). Moreover, higher temperature in 2012 than 2013 season in Shandaweel caused significant (p<0.01) reduction in GYPP by 18.04%, GPP (34.76%) and DTF (8.33%). Though the temperature was higher in Shandaweel than Giza, the increase in GYPP in Shandaweel than Giza could probably due to the better physical and chemical properties of the soil. Across all environments, the B-line BTX-TSC-20 followed by ICSB-88003 showed the highest GYPP. BTX-TSC-20 followed by ICSB-1808 under E1 and E3 environments (Giza, first planting date in 2012 and 2013), ICSB-14 and ICSB-88003 under E2 and E4 (Giza, second planting date in 2012 and 2013), ICSB-11 followed by BTX 2-1 under E5 (Shandaweel, 2012 season) and ICSB-88003 followed by ICSB-70 under E6 (Shandaweel, 2013 season) were the most adapted B-lines.

Plant growth, nutrients and potentially toxic elements in leaves of yerba mate clones in response to phosphorus in acid soils

ABSTRACT Native to subtropical region of South America, yerba mate is responsive to P under some conditions, but the degree of influence of genetic and soil on the growth and composition of the leaf is unknown. The aim of study was to evaluate plant growth, nutrients and potentially toxic elements in leaves of yerba mate clones in response to P application in acid soils. In greenhouse condition, two yerba mate clone seedlings were grown (210 days) in pots, each clone in a completely randomized design in factorial scheme (with and without P; four acid soils). The elemental composition of leaves and the growth of plants were determined. Phosphorus promoted plant growth, but this was not accompanied by increased P in leaf tissue in all conditions tested. The P effect on the elemental composition varied: decrease/null (N, K, Mg, Mn, Cu, Ni, B, Mo, Al, Cd); increase/null (C/N, C, Ca, Fe, V); increase/decrease/null (Zn, Ba, Pb) and; null (Cr). The soils affect the elemental composition of the leaves, especially Mn, with accumulation greater than 1000 mg kg-1. The Ba, Pb, Al and Zn in the leaves varied among clones. Yerba mate response to P was affected by edaphic and plant factors.

Soil nutrient content and plant phytosociology in agroforestrysystems of the Rio de Janeiro State highlands, Brazil / Teores de nutrientes do solo e fitossociologia em sistemas agroflorestais na Região Serrana, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

This study aimed to evaluate soil fertility and the horizontal structure of threedemonstration units of Agroforestry Systems (ASs), Sapucaia, RJ, Brazil. Twenty-four plots (25 m2) weredelineated in each AS. Soil fertility was evaluated through pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. The estimated phytosociological parameters were frequency, density, dominance,importance value and the diversity index of Shannon. Magnesium was more pronounced in ASas with more management intensity due to the incorporation of banana biomass (AS 1 and 2). The AS 1 highlights were for banana and coffee (about 45% IV), AS 2 banana and physic nuts (about 50% IV) and AS 3 cassava and ‘fumo-bravo’ (VI=52.2%). This study suggests that diversity contributes to the maintenance of ecosystem services on a local scale, mainly for the conservation and maintenance of soil fertility, as well asto increase food security in the property. The use of physic nuts has not shown to be a favorable option as asource of energy for the farm studied. However, it can contribute to the increase of local value added.These responses support the importance of ASs for the establishment of more sustainable production models.

Este estudo objetivou avaliar a fertilidade do solo e a estrutura horizontal de três unidades demonstrativas de Sistemas Agroflorestais (SAFs), Sapucaia, RJ, Brasil. Foram demarcadas vinte e quatroparcelas (25 m2) em cada SAF. A fertilidade do solo foi avaliada através do pH, carbono orgânico, nitrogêniototal, fósforo e potássio. Os parâmetros fitossociológicos estimados foram frequência, densidade, dominância, valor de importância e o índice de diversidade de Shannon. O magnésio foi mais pronunciadonos SAFs 1 e 2, com mais intensidade de manejo, devido à incorporação de biomassa da bananeira. Os destaques no SAF 1 foram para banana e café (cerca de 45% do VI); no SAF 2, banana e pinhão-manso (cerca de 50% do VI); e, no SAF 3, mandioca e fumo-bravo (VI=52,2%). Este estudo sugere que adiversidade contribui para a manutenção dos serviços ecossistêmicos em escala local, principalmente para aconservação e manutenção da fertilidade do solo, bem como para aumentar a segurança alimentar. O usodo pinhão-manso não demonstrou uma opção favorável como fonte de energia; no entanto, pode contribuir para o aumento do valor agregado local. Essas respostas sustentam a importância dos SAFs para oestabelecimento de modelos de produção mais sustentáveis.

Potential Role of Groundnut Stover in Soil Nutrient Management for a Sustainable Rainfed Upland Rice Production in Bimodal Rain Forest Zone of Cameroon

Mineral fertilizer is an environmental hazard and economic discouraging factor for rice farmers in Cameroon. The objective was to assess the effect of groundnut stover as a substitute to mineral fertilizer on agronomic performance of rainfed upland rice in bimodal HFZ. The experiment was carried out during short raining season (August – December 2015). Two doses of groundnut stover: 1.5 t/ha ± mineral fertilizers and 2.4 t/ha ± mineral fertilizers were used, design in a RCBD (randomized complete block designed) with four replications involving NERICA 8 progeny. Thirteen agronomic traits were collected, analyzed and Pearson’s correlation test was performed at 1% and 5% level of probability. There was an overall increase in rice paddy grain yield in the different treatments except in treatment 1.5 t/ha of groundnut Stover (3.5 t/ha) with the highest grain yield of 5.75 t/ha (SR1+ and SR2). Treatments 1.5 t/ha of groundnut Stover + urea+ NPK; 1.5 t/ha of groundnut Stover; 2.4 t/ha of groundnut Stover + urea+ NPK had the lowest number of tillers/plant. Panicle length (PL) correlates with the following traits: NSR (r = 0.762**); 1000SW (r = 0.463*); FG (r = 0.573**); NGP (r = 0.601**) and GY (r = 0.649**), similarly NSR correlated with GY (r = 0.649**). Panicle length (PL) and secondary ramifications (NSR) are NERICA traits important for an increase in grain yield under incorporated groundnut Stover in humid forest ecology.

Assessment of soil fertility for cultivation of Chinese herbal medicines / 中国中药杂志

The soil fertility has great impacts on the yielding of Chinese medicinal materials, as well as the generation of major components. The practices showed that soil fertility has been decayed with the growth of cultivation years,which is leading to adverse effect on quality and quantity of Chinese medicinal materials. However, there was a lack of domestic unified standard for assessment of soil fertility of Chinese medicinal material cultivation, which has seriously limited the soil management and quality control. In this text, we reviewed the progress on research of soil fertility evaluation, built the soil fertility evaluation index including soil texture,soil bulk density,soil organic matter,soil acidity and alkalinity,soil available nitrogen,soil available phosphorus, soil available potassium,soil animals and soil microorganisms. It would provide the direction and thought for standard-settin on soil fertility evaluation of Chinese medicinal material cultivation.

Yield, Quality and Nutrient Uptake as Influenced by Organic Manures and Inorganic Fertilizers in Finger Millet.

A field experiment was conducted to study the influence of organic manures and chemical fertilizers on yield, nutrient uptake by finger millet and soil fertility status at harvest during kharif 2013 at Agricultural Research Station, Perumallapalle, ANGRAU. The results revealed that significantly highest grain yield (37.21 q ha-1), protein content (8.82%), N uptake (84.80 kg ha-1), P uptake (12.04 kg ha-1), No. of tillers/plant (2.5), No. of fingers/ear head (13) were recorded in inorganic treated plot when compared with organic treated plot (35.08 q ha-1 of grain yield, 8.61% of protein content,75.29 kg ha-1 of N uptake, 11.58 kg ha-1 of P uptake, 2.2 tillers/plant, 11 fingers/earhead). Organic carbon content in soil was increased in organic plot (0.02% only) when compared with intial value. In both the treatments available N was reduced and available K was increased when compared with initial available N and K.

Chemical and physical attributes and calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus in the soil of murundu fields in Brazil / Atributos químicos, físicos e estoque de cálcio, magnésio, potássio e fósforo em solos de campos de murundus no Brasil

Fields of murundus (FM) are wetlands that provide numerous ecosystem services. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the chemical [organic carbon (OC), P, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Al3+ and H+Al] and physical [texture and bulk density (Bd)] soil attributes and calculate the organic matter (OM) and nutrient stock (P, Ca, Mg, and K) in soils of FM located in the Guapore River basin in Mato Grosso. Thirty-six sampling points were selected, and soil samples were collected from two environments: the murundu and plain area surrounding (PAS). At each sampling point, mini trenches of 0.5 × 0.5 × 0.4 m were opened and disturbed and undisturbed soil samples were collected at depths of 0-0.1, 0.1-0.2, and 0.2-0.4 m. In the Principal Component Analysis the variables H+Al (49%) and OM (4%) were associated with the F1 component and sand content (47%) with the F2 component. The FM had lower pH values and higher concentrations of K+, P, and H+Al than PAS at all depths (p < 0.05). Additionally, FM stocked up to 433, 360, 205, and 11 kg ha-1 of Ca, Mg, K, and P, respectively, for up to a depth of 0.2 m. The murundu stored two times more K and three times more P than that in the PAS. Our results show that the FM has high sand content and Bd greater than 1.5 Mg m-3, high acidity, low OC content, and low nutrient concentrations. Thus, special care must be taken to preserve FM such that human intervention does not trigger environmental imbalances.

Campos de murundus (CM) são áreas úmidas que prestam inúmeros serviços ecossistêmicos. Os objetivos desse estudo foram avaliar atributos químicos [carbono orgânico (CO), P, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Al3+ e H+Al] e físicos [textura e densidade do solo (Ds)] e calcular os teores de matéria orgânica (MO) e estoques dos nutrientes P, Ca, K e Mg em solos de CM localizados na bacia do Rio Guaporé em Mato Grosso. Foram selecionados 36 pontos de amostragem e coletadas amostras de solo em dois ambientes: murundu e área plana circunvizinha (APC). Em cada ponto foram abertas minitrincheiras de 0,5 × 0,5 × 0,4 m e coletadas amostras de solo deformadas e indeformadas nas profundidades de 0-0,1; 0,1-0,2; e 0,2-0,4 m. Na Análise de Componentes Principais as variáveis H+Al (49%) e MO (4%) foram associados com o componente F1 e o teor de areia (47%) com o componente F2. O murundu apresenta menor pH e maiores teores de K+, P e H+Al que a APC em ambas profundidades (p < 0,05). Até 0,2 m esses CM estocam 433; 360; 205; e 11 kg ha-1 de Ca, Mg, K e P, respectivamente. No entanto, o murundu estoca duas vezes mais K e três vezes mais P que a APC. Estes CM apresentam altos teores de areia, Ds superior a 1,5 Mg m-3, elevada acidez, baixo teor de CO e pobreza em nutrientes. Dessa forma, necessitam de cuidados especiais para que a intervenção antrópica não desencadeie desequilíbrios ambientais.

Diagnosis and Comprehensive Evaluation of Soil Fertility of Good Agricultural Practices Base for Spatholobus suberectus Dunn. in Pingyuan of Guangdong Province / 广州中医药大学学报

Objective To investigate the status of soil fertility of Good Agricultural Practices ( GAP) base for Spatholobus suberectus Dunn. (SSD) in Pingyuan county of Guangdong province, thus to provide reference for GAP research and the subsequent fertilization for SSD. Methods The deep layer and superficial layer of GAP soil were collected for the physiochemical detection and nutrient assay. Compared with the classification standard of the second national general soil investigation, single base soil fertility index was diagnosed and the comprehensive soil fertility was evaluated with modified Nemoro Index. Results The soil pH value and the contents of exchangeable calcium and magnesium were unbalanced, and the contents of macroelements of nitrogen and phosphonium, microelements, and organic matter were low. Therefore, the measures for improving the base soil fertility should be as follows: ( 1) soil amendments of bentonite, gypsum and slaked lime should be used to adjust the soil pH value; ( 2) each plant should be given 10 kg of slaked organic fertilizer as base fertilizer; ( 3) in the process of nurturing, some special micro-fertilizer solution should be used to treat the cut slips, and 5 kg of urea should be used for every 667 meter square of land; ( 4) besides compound fertilizer, every 667 meter square of land should be fertilized with 15 kg of ammonium dihydrogen phosphate for the supplement of nitrogen and phosphorus, and slaked lime and magnesium carbonate should be used for the supplement of soil moderate-quantity elements after transplantation. Conclusion The comprehensive fertility of Pingyuan GAP base for Spatholobus suberectus Dunn. is at low level, and should be improved in combination with GAP requirements.

Evaluation of no-tillage of common bean in a native field in the high Jequitinhonha Valley, Minas Gerais State, Brazil / Avaliação do plantio direto de feijão em campo nativo no alto Vale do Jequitinhonha, MG

High Jequitinhonha Valley is a region of Minas Gerais State, Brazil, where agriculture is underdeveloped and the agricultural systems have low efficiency and yield rates. As a result, environmental degradation rates are high, and it is thus necessary to adjust the soil management techniques. This study aimed to evaluate the notillage of common bean with the direct desiccation of a sandy soil native field of High Jequitinhonha Valley, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The study followed a randomized block design, with two replicates (treatments: conventional tillage and notillage) in five blocks. The following outcomes were evaluated: the chemical properties of a Quartzarenic Neosol (Entisol), the nutritional status and yield of common bean farmed under conventional tillage and no-tillage via the direct application of desiccant to the natural vegetation during three crop cycles. The adoption no-tillage in the native field improved the chemical attributes of the sandy soil, with altered the nutritional status and increased the yield of the common bean after three crop cycles under the conditions of High Jequitinhonha Valley, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The soil contents of organic carbon, P, Ca, Mg, and CEC in the 0-0.1 m soil layer were higher under no-tillage than conventional tillage. The leaf contents of N, Mg, S, and Zn increased whereas the leaf contents of P, K, Fe, and Mn decreased throughout the crop cycles. Deficiencies of P, Fe, and Mn were observed in the common bean leaves during the last crop cycle under notillage.

O Alto Vale do Jequitinhonha é uma região do estado de Minas Gerais onde a agricultura é pouco desenvolvida, e os sistemas agrícolas possuem eficiências e índices de produtividade baixos. Como resultado, as taxas de degradação ambiental são altas, sendo necessário ajuste nas técnicas de manejo do solo. Objetivou-se avaliar o plantio direto do feijoeiro com dessecação direta do campo nativo de um solo arenoso do Alto Vale do Jequitinhonha (MG). O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com duas repetições dos tratamentos (preparo convencional e plantio direto) por cinco blocos. Foram avaliados os atributos químicos de um Neossolo Quartzarênico, o estado nutricional e a produtividade do feijoeiro em sistema convencional de preparo do solo e de plantio direto com aplicação de dessecante direta da vegetação natural em três cultivos. A adoção do plantio direto sob campo nativo promoveu melhoria nos atributos químicos do solo arenoso, com alteração do estado nutricional e aumento da produtividade do feijoeiro após três cultivos nas condições do Alto Vale do Jequitinhonha, MG. Os teores de carbono orgânico, P, Ca, Mg e CTC na camada de 0 a 0,1 m foram maiores no sistema plantio direto do que no preparo convencional do solo. Os teores de N, Mg, S e Zn nas folhas aumentaram enquanto os teores de P, K, Fe e Mn diminuíram no decorrer dos cultivos. A deficiência de P, Fe e Mn nas folhas do feijoeiro ocorreu no último cultivo no sistema de plantio direto.