ABSTRACT
In 2009, a new pest of cassava crops was observed in the Federal District (Brazil) and identified as Eubulus (Kirsch) sp. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). The pest is currently distributed in the states of Goiás, Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso do Sul, and Paraná. The larvae consume roots, causing the tissue to rot and making it unfit for consumption. The damage can extend to 100% of the roots. Owing to the potential losses that this pest is capable of causing, studies are needed on its biology, ecology, and future management strategies aimed at minimizing the losses, allowing the continuity of cassava cultivation in Brazil. This study reports on the occurrence of the pest in Brazilian Cerrado, its distribution in Brazil, the symptoms of its infestation and estimates the damage caused.
Subject(s)
Coleoptera , Manihot , Weevils , Animals , Brazil , EcologyABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a major human health concern worldwide, and biofortification (genetic and agronomic) is a complementary solution for increasing micronutrient contents, including Zn. Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) has been used for Zn biofortification because it is an important staple crop in most countries affected by malnutrition and Zn deficiency. Thus studies on biofortification of this crop can improve its nutritional quality. Zn content in cassava clones enriched with ß-carotene or lycopene and cultivated under different areas and soil managements was investigated to evaluate the influence of genotypic variation and agronomic management on Zn status in the plant. RESULTS: A clone-specific response to total Zn content in the soil was found, with clones 26, 215, and 240 (ß-carotene enriched) and clones 341 and 395 (lycopene enriched) being the most responsive. For both experiments, there was a positive interaction between total soil Zn and Zn content in the roots. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that, by combining plant breeding and agronomic strategies, it is possible to enrich cassava roots with both zinc and ß-carotene or lycopene. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.