Effect of monocultures and polycultures of Typha latifolia and Heliconia psittacorum on the treatment of river waters contaminated with landfill leachate/domestic wastewater in partially saturated vertical constructed wetlands.

Partially Saturated Vertical Constructed Wetlands (PSV-CWs) are novel wastewater treatment systems that work through aerobic and anaerobic conditions that favor the removal of pollutants found in high concentrations, such as rivers contaminated with domestic wastewater and landfill leachate. The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficiency of PSV-CWs using monocultures and polycultures of Typha latifolia and Heliconia psittacorum to treat river waters contaminated with leachates from open dumps and domestic wastewater. Six experimental units of PSV-CWs were used; two were planted with Typha latifolia monoculture, two with Heliconia psittacorum monoculture and two with polycultures of both plants. The results indicated better organic matter and nitrogen removal efficiencies (p < 0.05) in systems with polycultures (TSS:95%, BOD5:83%, COD:89%, TN:82% and NH4+:99%). In general, the whole system showed high average removal efficiencies (TSS:93%, BOD5:79%, COD:85%, TN:79%, NH4+:98% and TP:85%). Regarding vegetation, both species developed better in units with monocultures, being Typha latifolia the one that reached a more remarkable development. However, both species showed high resistance to the contaminated environment. These results showed higher removals than those reported in the literature with conventional Free Flow Vertical Constructed Wetlands (FFV-CWs), so PSV-CWs could be a suitable option to treat this type of effluent.

The research addresses the contamination of water resources in developing countries by landfill leachate and domestic wastewater discharges. It proposes treatment through Partially Saturated Vertical Constructed Wetlands (PSV-CWs), which, despite the limited information available, have been shown to be effective in removing pollutants in effluents with high concentrations. In addition to evaluating PSV-CWs, the study examines the impact of different types of vegetation on pollutant removal efficiency, concluding that PSV-CWs are a promising and viable option for the treatment of these effluents.

Influence of Bed Depth on the Development of Tropical Ornamental Plants in Subsurface Flow Treatment Wetlands for Municipal Wastewater Treatment: A Pilot-Scale Case.

The aim of this 2-year study was to evaluate the influence of bed depth (40 and 60 cm) on the development of tropical ornamental species (Alpinia purpurata, Heliconia latispatha and Strelitzia reginae) and on the removal of different contaminants such as chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate (N-NO3), ammonium (N-NH4), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), total suspended solids (TSS), total coliforms (TCs) and fecal coliforms (FCs), in horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands (HSSF-CWs) for municipal wastewater treatment. The results showed that the depth of 60 cm favored the removal of COD, with removal efficiencies of 94% for the three plant species. The depth of 40 cm was most effective for the removal of N-NH4 (80-90%). Regarding the removal of TN, the removals were similar for the different plants and depths (72-86%). The systems only achieved up to 60% removal of TCs and FCs. The depth of the CWs substrate and its saturation level influenced the development of ornamental vegetation, particularly flower production. For Heliconia latispatha, a bed depth level of 60 cm was more suitable, while for Alpinia purpurata 40 cm was better, and for Strelitzia reginae in both cases there was no flower production. The impact of bed depth on contaminant removal depends on the specific type of contaminant.

Metabólitos bioativos e atividades biológicas, tóxicas e farmacológicas de plantas ornamentais: uma revisão das espécies hydrangea macrophylla, euphorbia milii, dieffenbachia seguine e dracaena trifasciata / Bioactive metabolites and biological, toxic and pharmacological activities of ornamental plants: a review of the species hydrangea macrophylla, euphorbia milii, dieffenbachia seguine and dracaena trifasciata / Metabolitos bioactivos y actividades biológicas, tóxicas y farmacológicas de plantas ornamentales: una revisión de las especies hydrangea macrophylla, euphorbia milii, dieffenbachia seguine y dracaena trifasciata

As plantas ornamentais foram selecionadas pelo homem a partir de caracteres atraentes e começaram a ser cultivadas por sua beleza. São utilizadas frequentemente em arquitetura e paisagismo de espaços externos, porém, pode possuir princípios ativos que as tornam tóxicas e que podem causar danos a saúde como irritações na pele e mucosas. No Brasil há descritas diversas plantas de uso ornamental e que são consideradas tóxicas, dentre elas podemos destacar popularmente hortênsia, comigo-ninguém-pode, espada-de- são-jorge e a coroa-de-cristo e na literatura o envenenamento humano por essas plantas tóxicas quase não é documentado o que despertou interesse nessa revisão. Logo, esse estudo possui objetivo de revisar as bases de dados em busca de informações de atividades biológicas, tóxicas, farmacológicas e de metabólitos bioativos das espécies Hydrangea macrophylla, Euphorbia milii, Dieffenbachia seguine e Dracaena trifasciata. Para o compilado de dados deste artigo de revisão, foram utilizados 51 artigos que reuniram as condições de elegibilidade buscadas. Os artigos foram lidos na integra e os dados agregados em tabela ou texto. Esta revisão observou que a maioria dos ensaios aplicados nessas espécies foram de caráter toxicológico e objetivavam a busca de veículos para controle de doenças ocasionadas por vetores. Os ensaios demonstraram potencial tóxico preliminar, justificando os efeitos relacionados à intoxicação ou aos danos á saúde como irritações na pele e mucosas.

Ornamental plants were selected by man from attractive characters and began to be cultivated for their beauty. They are often used in architecture and landscaping of outdoor spaces; however, they may have active ingredients that make them toxic and that can cause health damage such as skin and mucous membrane irritations. In Brazil there are described several plants of ornamental use and that are considered toxic, among them we can highlight hortênsia, comigo-ninguém-pode, espada-de-são-jorge e a coroa-de- cristo, and in the literature the human poisoning by these toxic plants is hardly documented which aroused interest in this review. Therefore, this study aims to review the databases in search of information on biological, toxic, pharmacological activities and bioactive metabolites of the species Hydrangea macrophylla, Euphorbia milii, Dieffenbachia seguine and Dracaena trifasciata. To compile data from this review article, 51 articles were used that met the sought eligibility conditions. The articles were read in full and the data aggregated in a table or text. This review noted that most of the tests applied to these species were toxicological in nature and aimed to search for vehicles to control diseases caused by vectors. The trials demonstrated preliminary toxic potential, justifying the effects related to intoxication or damage to health such as skin and mucous membrane irritations.

Las plantas ornamentales fueron seleccionadas por el hombre a partir de caracteres atractivos y empezaron a cultivarse por su belleza. A menudo se utilizan en la arquitectura y el paisajismo de espacios exteriores; sin embargo, pueden tener principios activos que las hacen tóxicas y que pueden causar daños a la salud, como irritaciones de la piel y de las mucosas. En Brasil están descritas varias plantas de uso ornamental y que son consideradas tóxicas, entre ellas se destacan hortênsia, comigo-ninguém-pode, espada-de-são-jorge e a coroa-de- cristo, y en la literatura el envenenamiento humano por estas plantas tóxicas está poco documentado lo que despertó el interés en esta revisión. Por lo tanto, este estudio tiene como objetivo revisar las bases de datos en busca de información sobre las actividades biológicas, tóxicas, farmacológicas y metabolitos bioactivos de las especies Hydrangea macrophylla, Euphorbia milii, Dieffenbachia seguine y Dracaena trifasciata. Para recopilar los datos de este artículo de revisión, se utilizaron 51 artículos que cumplían las condiciones de elegibilidad buscadas. Los artículos se leyeron en su totalidad y los datos se agregaron en una tabla o texto. En esta revisión se observó que la mayoría de los ensayos aplicados a estas especies eran de naturaleza toxicológica y tenían como objetivo la búsqueda de vehículos para el control de enfermedades causadas por vectores. Los ensayos demostraron potencial tóxico preliminar, justificando los efectos relacionados con intoxicación o daños a la salud, como irritaciones de piel y mucosas.

Flower Extracts from Ornamental Plants as Sources of Sunscreen Ingredients: Determination by In Vitro Methods of Photoprotective Efficacy, Antigenotoxicity and Safety.

Plants are sources of sunscreen ingredients that prevent cellular mutations involved in skin cancer and aging. This study investigated the sunscreen properties of the extracts from some ornamental plants growing in Colombia. The UV filter capability of the flower extracts obtained from Rosa centifolia L., Posoqueria latifolia (Rudge) Schult, and Ipomoea horsfalliae Hook. was examined. Photoprotection efficacies were evaluated using in vitro indices such as sun protection factor and critical wavelength. UVB antigenotoxicity estimates measured with the SOS Chromotest were also obtained. Extract cytotoxicity and genotoxicity were studied in human fibroblasts using the trypan blue exclusion and Comet assays, respectively. Major compounds of the promising flower extracts were identified by UHPLC-ESI+-Orbitrap-MS. The studied extracts showed high photoprotection efficacy and antigenotoxicity against UVB radiation, but only the P. latifolia extract showed broad-spectrum photoprotection at non-cytotoxic concentrations. The P. latifolia extract appeared to be safer for human fibroblast cells and the R. centifolia extract was shown to be moderately cytotoxic and genotoxic at the highest assayed concentrations. The I. horsfalliae extract was unequivocally cytotoxic and genotoxic. The major constituents of the promising extracts were as follows: chlorogenic acid, ecdysterone 20E, rhamnetin-rutinoside, cis-resveratrol-diglucoside, trans-resveratrol-diglucoside in P. latifolia; quercetin, quercetin-glucoside, quercetin-3-rhamnoside, kaempferol, kaempferol-3-glucoside, and kaempferol-rhamnoside in R. centifolia. The potential of the ornamental plants as sources of sunscreen ingredients was discussed.

A Novel Lineage of Cile-Like Viruses Discloses the Phylogenetic Continuum Across the Family Kitaviridae.

An increasing number of plant species have been recognized or considered likely reservoirs of viruses transmitted by Brevipalpus mites. A tiny fraction of these viruses, primarily those causing severe economic burden to prominent crops, have been fully characterized. In this study, based on high-throughput sequencing, transmission electron microscopy analyses of virions in plant-infected tissues, viral transmission experiments, and the morphoanatomical identification of the involved Brevipalpus mites, we describe molecular and biological features of viruses representing three new tentative species of the family Kitaviridae. The genomes of Solanum violifolium ringspot virus (SvRSV, previously partially characterized), Ligustrum chlorotic spot virus (LigCSV), and Ligustrum leprosis virus (LigLV) have five open reading frames (ORFs) > 500 nts, two distributed in RNA1 and three in RNA2. RNA1 of these three viruses display the same genomic organization found in RNA1 of typical cileviruses, while their RNA2 are shorter, possessing only orthologs of genes p61, p32, and p24. LigCSV and LigLV are more closely related to each other than to SvRSV, but the identities between their genomic RNAs were lower than 70%. In gene-by-gene comparisons, ORFs from LigCSV and LigLV had the highest sequence identity values (nt sequences: 70-76% and deduced amino acid sequences: 74-83%). The next higher identity values were with ORFs from typical cileviruses, with values below 66%. Virions of LigLV (≈ 40 nm × 55 nm) and LigCSV (≈ 54 nm × 66 nm) appear almost spherical, contrasting with the bacilliform shape of SvRSV virions (≈ 47 nm × 101 nm). Mites collected from the virus-infected plants were identified as Brevipalpus papayensis, B. tucuman, and B. obovatus. Viruliferous B. papayensis mites successfully transmitted LigCSV to Arabidopsis thaliana. SvRSV, LigCSV, and LigLV seem to represent novel sub-lineages of kitaviruses that descent on parallel evolutionary branches from a common ancestor shared with the tentative cile-like virus hibiscus yellow blotch virus and typical cileviruses. Biological and molecular data, notably, the phylogenetic reconstruction based on the RdRp proteins in which strong support for monophyly of the family Kitaviridae is observed, mark an advance in the understanding of kitavirids.

Study of germination efficiency and temperature/drowning resistance in some ornamental plants treated with ultra high dilute compounds

The ultra-high dilutions (UHDs) can be used for decreasing stress conditions causing by climate variations. The present research investigated the effects of ultra-highdilutions (UHDs) on some ornamental plants, germination, and hormonal variations.Methods: In order to study the effect of UHDs (Calendula officinalisCalen. andArnica montanaArn.) on the physiological, primary metabolite, and hormonal variations of theOryza sativa L. (rice), 104 experiments were designed and statistically analyzed using the Design Expert 7.0.1 software over the general factorial design methodology. Two qualitative factors, including the UHDs/placebo usage and the type of plant usage, and two quantitative factors, including temperature and irrigation, were studied. The validated analysis was subjected to more extended studies on the variations in physiological growth, carbohydrate, protein content, and levels of plant hormones, including gibberellic acids, indole acetic acid, abscisic acid, and salicylic acid.Results: The statistical analysis resulted in a prediction model which was more than 75% correlates with experimental results. The results showed that the UHDs increased the carbohydrate and protein content of seedlings. Also, compared to placebo, the levels of hormones GA3 and IAA in all samples increase, and the amount of GA4 decreases. The amount of ABA and SA hormones inS. officinalisincreased under UHDs treatment while decreasing in the other two samples.Conclusion: The use of UHDs leads to an increase in the production of carbohydrate and protein content. Moreover, it causes significant variations in the growth-inducing hormone and increases the tolerance of seeds under higher/lower temperatures and draught/drowning. The results of this study open up a window to reduce germination survival and increase their resistance to sudden climate change.

Seedlings production of Gomphrena globosa and Petunia x hybridain different times and substrates / Produção de mudas de Gomphrena globosa e Petunia x hybrida em diferentes épocas e substratos

This study aimed to evaluate the seedlings growth of Petunia x hybridaand Gomphrena globose at different times and substrates based on agricultural residues. A completely randomized experimental design was adopted, in a factorial scheme, with treatments consisting of four replications and the experimental unit formed by ten plants. The flower species Petunia x hybridaand G. globosawere cultivated in five substrate compositions and in two seasons, with sowing carried out in April and June for Petunia x hybrid and April and October for G. globosa. The substrates were composed using commercial substrate (CM), bovine manure (BM), worm humus (WM) and rice husk ash (HA), in volumetric proportions: (S1) 100% CS; (S2) 40% CS + 20% BM + 20% WH + 20% HA; (S3) 60% CS + 20% WH + 20% HA; (S4) 60% CS + 20% BM + 20% HA; and (S5) 80% CS + 20% BM. Emergence, emergence speed index, height, number of leaves, length of the largest leaf, length of the largest root, dry mass of the aboveground part, dry mass of the root system and total dry mass were evaluated. The seedlings growth of the Petunia x hybridaand G. globosa changed according to the characteristics of the substrates and the growing seasons. The substrate composed with 80% commercial substrate and 20% bovine manure showed similar or superior results to the commercial substrate and can be used in order to reduce production costs without prejudice to the seedlings growth. The cultivation of Petunia x hybridain April resulted in seedlings with greater height, leaf length and greater accumulation of phytomass. The G. globosa seedlings showed greater development of the aboveground part and the root system, in addition to greater accumulation of phytomass when cultivated in October.

Objetivou-se avaliar o crescimento de mudas de Petunia x hybridae Gomphrena globosa cultivadas em diferentes épocas e substratos a base de resíduos agropecuários. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial, sendo os tratamentos compostos por quatro repetições e a unidade experimental formada por dez plantas. Foram cultivadas as espécies de flores Petunia x hybridae G. globosa em cinco composições de substratos e em duas épocas, sendo as semeaduras realizadas em abril e junho para a Petunia x hybridae abril e outubro para a G. globosa. Os substratos foram compostos utilizando-se substrato comercial (CS), esterco bovino curtido (BM), húmus de minhoca (WH) e cinza de casca de arroz (HA), nas proporções volumétricas: (S1) 100% CS; (S2) 40% CS + 20% BM + 20% WH + 20% HA; (S3) 60% CS + 20% WH + 20% HA; (S4) 60% CS + 20% BM + 20% HA; e (S5) 80% CS + 20% BM. Avaliou-se a emergência, índice de velocidade de emergência, altura, número de folhas, comprimento da maior folha, comprimento da maior raiz, massa seca da parte aérea, massa seca do sistema radicular e massa seca total. O crescimento das mudas de Petunia x hybridae G. globosa modificou-se conforme as características dos substratos e as épocas de cultivo. O substrato composto com 80% de substrato comercial e 20% de esterco bovino apresentou resultados semelhantes ou superiores ao substrato comercial, podendo ser utilizado a fim de reduzir os custos de produção sem prejuízos ao crescimento das mudas. O cultivo de Petunia x hybridaem abril resultou em mudas com maior altura, comprimento das folhas e maior acúmulo de fitomassa. As mudas de G. globosa apresentaram maior desenvolvimento da parte aérea e do sistema radicular, além de maior acúmulo de fitomassa quando cultivadas em outubro.

Seedlings production of Gomphrena globosa and Petunia x hybridain different times and substrates / Produção de mudas de Gomphrena globosa e Petunia x hybrida em diferentes épocas e substratos

This study aimed to evaluate the seedlings growth of Petunia x hybridaand Gomphrena globose at different times and substrates based on agricultural residues. A completely randomized experimental design was adopted, in a factorial scheme, with treatments consisting of four replications and the experimental unit formed by ten plants. The flower species Petunia x hybridaand G. globosawere cultivated in five substrate compositions and in two seasons, with sowing carried out in April and June for Petunia x hybrid and April and October for G. globosa. The substrates were composed using commercial substrate (CM), bovine manure (BM), worm humus (WM) and rice husk ash (HA), in volumetric proportions: (S1) 100% CS; (S2) 40% CS + 20% BM + 20% WH + 20% HA; (S3) 60% CS + 20% WH + 20% HA; (S4) 60% CS + 20% BM + 20% HA; and (S5) 80% CS + 20% BM. Emergence, emergence speed index, height, number of leaves, length of the largest leaf, length of the largest root, dry mass of the aboveground part, dry mass of the root system and total dry mass were evaluated. The seedlings growth of the Petunia x hybridaand G. globosa changed according to the characteristics of the substrates and the growing seasons. The substrate composed with 80% commercial substrate and 20% bovine manure showed similar or superior results to the commercial substrate and can be used in order to reduce production costs without prejudice to the seedlings growth. The cultivation of Petunia x hybridain April resulted in seedlings with greater height, leaf length and greater accumulation of phytomass. The G. globosa seedlings showed greater development of the aboveground part and the root system, in addition to greater accumulation of phytomass when cultivated in October.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o crescimento de mudas de Petunia x hybridae Gomphrena globosa cultivadas em diferentes épocas e substratos a base de resíduos agropecuários. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial, sendo os tratamentos compostos por quatro repetições e a unidade experimental formada por dez plantas. Foram cultivadas as espécies de flores Petunia x hybridae G. globosa em cinco composições de substratos e em duas épocas, sendo as semeaduras realizadas em abril e junho para a Petunia x hybridae abril e outubro para a G. globosa. Os substratos foram compostos utilizando-se substrato comercial (CS), esterco bovino curtido (BM), húmus de minhoca (WH) e cinza de casca de arroz (HA), nas proporções volumétricas: (S1) 100% CS; (S2) 40% CS + 20% BM + 20% WH + 20% HA; (S3) 60% CS + 20% WH + 20% HA; (S4) 60% CS + 20% BM + 20% HA; e (S5) 80% CS + 20% BM. Avaliou-se a emergência, índice de velocidade de emergência, altura, número de folhas, comprimento da maior folha, comprimento da maior raiz, massa seca da parte aérea, massa seca do sistema radicular e massa seca total. O crescimento das mudas de Petunia x hybridae G. globosa modificou-se conforme as características dos substratos e as épocas de cultivo. O substrato composto com 80% de substrato comercial e 20% de esterco bovino apresentou resultados semelhantes ou superiores ao substrato comercial, podendo ser utilizado a fim de reduzir os custos de produção sem prejuízos ao crescimento das mudas. O cultivo de Petunia x hybridaem abril resultou em mudas com maior altura, comprimento das folhas e maior acúmulo de fitomassa. As mudas de G. globosa apresentaram maior desenvolvimento da parte aérea e do sistema radicular, além de maior acúmulo de fitomassa quando cultivadas em outubro.(AU)

Characterization of associative diazotrophic bacteria in torch ginger / Caracterização de bactérias diazotróficas associativas em bastão-do-imperador

Associative diazotrophic bacteria perform several processes that promote increased plant development and production, allowing a reduction in the use of agricultural inputs and costs. However, for some species, such as torch ginger, there are still no reports of studies aimed at identifying diazotrophic bacteria associated with this species. On this basis, this study proposes to isolate and characterize associative diazotrophic bacteria in rhizospheric soils and roots of torch ginger as well as analyze the potential of these isolates in solubilizing phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) and producing indole-3- acetic acid (IAA). Soil and roots samples of torch ginger were inoculated into five different semi-solid and semi-selective culture media, namely, NFb, JNFb, LGI, JMV and FAM, where bacterial growth was diagnosed by the formation of a characteristic film on the surface of the media. Subsequently, the bacterial isolates were analyzed for their ability to solubilize P and K in liquid medium, using phosphate rock powder (AO-15) and potassium rock powder (phonolite) as sources of P and K, respectively. All culture media showed bacterial growth, making this the first report of isolation of diazotrophic bacterial strains in this species. Eight of the obtained strains originated from rhizospheric soils and four from roots of torch ginger. Of these, 10 solubilized P, with the UNIFENAS 100-340, UNIFENAS 100-342 and UNIFENAS 100-348 strains standing out. Six strains showed K solubilizing ability, UNIFENAS 100-346 being the most efficient. All strains were able to produce the IAA phytohormone, both in the presence and absence of tryptophan, with superior results obtained by UNIFENAS 100-344 and UNIFENAS 100-351.(AU)

As bactérias diazotróficas associativas realizam diversos processos que promovem o maior desenvolvimento e produção vegetal, reduzindo o uso de insumos agrícolas e custos. No entanto, para algumas espécies, como o bastão-do-imperador, ainda não existem relatos de estudos visando identificar as bactérias diazotróficas associadas à esta espécie. Objetivou-se isolar e caracterizar bactérias diazotróficas associativas em solos rizosféricos e raízes de bastão-do-imperador e analisar o potencial destes isolados em solubilizar fósforo (P) e potássio (K) e produzir ácido 3-indol acético (AIA). As amostras de solos e raízes do bastão-do-imperador foram inoculadas em cinco diferentes meios de cultura semi-sólidos e semisseletivos, NFb, JNFb, LGI, JMV e FAM, em que o crescimento bacteriano foi diagnosticado pela formação de película característica na superfície dos meios. Posteriormente, os isolados bacterianos foram analisados quanto à capacidade de solubilizar P e potássio K em meio líquido, utilizando pó de rocha fosfatada, AO-15 e potássica, fonolito, como fontes de P e K, respectivamente. Todos os meios de cultivo utilizados apresentaram crescimento bacteriano, sendo este o primeiro relato de isolamento de estirpes bacterianas diazotróficas desta espécie. Das estirpes obtidas, oito foram de solos rizosféricos e quatro das raízes do bastão-do-imperador. Destas, 10 solubilizaram P, sendo as estirpes UNIFENAS 100-340 UNIFENAS 100-342 e UNIFENAS 100-348 as que se destacaram. Quanto a solubilização de K, seis estipes apresentaram a capacidade de solubilização, sendo a estirpe UNIFENAS 100-346 a mais eficiente. Em relação à produção de AIA, todas foram capazes de produzir esse fitormônio, tanto na presença quanto ausência do triptofano, com destaque para as estirpes UNIFENAS 100-344 e UNIFENAS 100-351.(AU)

Seed germination and development of desert rose seedlings (Adenium obesum Roem. & Schult) on different substrates / Germinação de sementes e desenvolvimento de mudas de rosa do deserto (Adenium obesum Roem. & Schult) em diferentes substratos

Desert rose (Adenium obesum) is a succulent plant that is native to the Arabian Peninsula. It has great commercial value with exuberant structure and flowering. It can be propagated by seeds to ensure maximum development of the caudex. Despite its high economic value, studies on its propagation are still required. The aim of this study was to evaluate seed germination performance and seedling development of desert rose seedlings in different substrates. Treatments comprised five different substrate compositions: S1 (Soil), S2 (Sand), S3 (Carolina Soil commercial substrate), S4 (Sand + Carolina Soil), and S5 (Soil+ Carolina Soil). The following were evaluated using uni- and multi-variate approaches: germination, first count, germination speed index, caudex diameter, number of leaves, seedling length, root length, shoot length, and fresh mass and dry mass. Sand is the ideal substrate for the germination of A. obesum seeds, while for forming seedlings, mixtures of the Carolina Soil commercial substrate with sand or soil should be used.(AU)

A rosa do deserto (Adenium obesum) é uma planta suculenta nativa da Península Arábica, apresenta grande valor comercial, com estrutura e floração exuberante. Sua propagação pode ser por meio de sementes para garantir o maior desenvolvimento do caudex. Apesar do alto valor econômico ainda se requerem estudos para sua propagação. O objetivo foi avaliar o desempenho germinativo de sementes e desenvolvimento de mudas de rosa-do-deserto em diferentes substratos. Os tratamentos constaram em cinco diferentes composições de substrato: S1 (Terra), S2 (Areia), S3 (substrato comercial Carolina Soil), S4 (Areia+ Carolina Soil) e S5 (Terra + Carolina Soil). Foram avaliados com abordagem uni e multivariada: germinação, primeira contagem, índice de velocidade de germinação, diâmetro do caudex, número de folhas, comprimento da plântula, comprimento da raiz, comprimento da parte aérea, massa fresca e massa seca. A areia é o substrato ideal para a germinação de sementes de A. obesum, enquanto que para a formação das mudas deve-se utilizar as misturas do substrato comercial Carolina Soil com areia ou terra.(AU)

First record of Biclonuncaria deutera Razowski & Becker, 1993 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) on Arachis repens Handro (Fabales: Fabaceae) / Primeiro registro de Biclonuncaria deutera Razowski & Becker, 1993 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) em Arachis repens Handro (Fabales: Fabaceae)

Arachis repens Handro (Fabales: Fabaceae) peanut grass shoots were collected at São Paulo State University, Campus of Registro, São Paulo, Brazil, in March 2017 to record a Lepidoptera that was injuring the plant. The species was identified as Biclonuncaria deutera Razowski & Becker, 1993 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae).(AU)

Folhas de grama-amendoim Arachis repens Handro (Fabales: Fabaceae) foram coletadas no Câmpus da Universidade Estadual Paulista, no município de Registro (SP), no mês de março de 2017, para registrar um Lepidoptera que causava injúrias à planta. A espécie foi identificada como Biclonuncaria deutera Razowski & Becker, 1993 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae).(AU)

Characterization of associative diazotrophic bacteria in torch ginger / Caracterização de bactérias diazotróficas associativas em bastão-do-imperador

Associative diazotrophic bacteria perform several processes that promote increased plant development and production, allowing a reduction in the use of agricultural inputs and costs. However, for some species, such as torch ginger, there are still no reports of studies aimed at identifying diazotrophic bacteria associated with this species. On this basis, this study proposes to isolate and characterize associative diazotrophic bacteria in rhizospheric soils and roots of torch ginger as well as analyze the potential of these isolates in solubilizing phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) and producing indole-3- acetic acid (IAA). Soil and roots samples of torch ginger were inoculated into five different semi-solid and semi-selective culture media, namely, NFb, JNFb, LGI, JMV and FAM, where bacterial growth was diagnosed by the formation of a characteristic film on the surface of the media. Subsequently, the bacterial isolates were analyzed for their ability to solubilize P and K in liquid medium, using phosphate rock powder (AO-15) and potassium rock powder (phonolite) as sources of P and K, respectively. All culture media showed bacterial growth, making this the first report of isolation of diazotrophic bacterial strains in this species. Eight of the obtained strains originated from rhizospheric soils and four from roots of torch ginger. Of these, 10 solubilized P, with the UNIFENAS 100-340, UNIFENAS 100-342 and UNIFENAS 100-348 strains standing out. Six strains showed K solubilizing ability, UNIFENAS 100-346 being the most efficient. All strains were able to produce the IAA phytohormone, both in the presence and absence of tryptophan, with superior results obtained by UNIFENAS 100-344 and UNIFENAS 100-351.

As bactérias diazotróficas associativas realizam diversos processos que promovem o maior desenvolvimento e produção vegetal, reduzindo o uso de insumos agrícolas e custos. No entanto, para algumas espécies, como o bastão-do-imperador, ainda não existem relatos de estudos visando identificar as bactérias diazotróficas associadas à esta espécie. Objetivou-se isolar e caracterizar bactérias diazotróficas associativas em solos rizosféricos e raízes de bastão-do-imperador e analisar o potencial destes isolados em solubilizar fósforo (P) e potássio (K) e produzir ácido 3-indol acético (AIA). As amostras de solos e raízes do bastão-do-imperador foram inoculadas em cinco diferentes meios de cultura semi-sólidos e semisseletivos, NFb, JNFb, LGI, JMV e FAM, em que o crescimento bacteriano foi diagnosticado pela formação de película característica na superfície dos meios. Posteriormente, os isolados bacterianos foram analisados quanto à capacidade de solubilizar P e potássio K em meio líquido, utilizando pó de rocha fosfatada, AO-15 e potássica, fonolito, como fontes de P e K, respectivamente. Todos os meios de cultivo utilizados apresentaram crescimento bacteriano, sendo este o primeiro relato de isolamento de estirpes bacterianas diazotróficas desta espécie. Das estirpes obtidas, oito foram de solos rizosféricos e quatro das raízes do bastão-do-imperador. Destas, 10 solubilizaram P, sendo as estirpes UNIFENAS 100-340 UNIFENAS 100-342 e UNIFENAS 100-348 as que se destacaram. Quanto a solubilização de K, seis estipes apresentaram a capacidade de solubilização, sendo a estirpe UNIFENAS 100-346 a mais eficiente. Em relação à produção de AIA, todas foram capazes de produzir esse fitormônio, tanto na presença quanto ausência do triptofano, com destaque para as estirpes UNIFENAS 100-344 e UNIFENAS 100-351.

First record of Biclonuncaria deutera Razowski & Becker, 1993 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) on Arachis repens Handro (Fabales: Fabaceae) / Primeiro registro de Biclonuncaria deutera Razowski & Becker, 1993 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) em Arachis repens Handro (Fabales: Fabaceae)

Arachis repens Handro (Fabales: Fabaceae) peanut grass shoots were collected at São Paulo State University, Campus of Registro, São Paulo, Brazil, in March 2017 to record a Lepidoptera that was injuring the plant. The species was identified as Biclonuncaria deutera Razowski & Becker, 1993 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae).(AU)

Folhas de grama-amendoim Arachis repens Handro (Fabales: Fabaceae) foram coletadas no Câmpus da Universidade Estadual Paulista, no município de Registro (SP), no mês de março de 2017, para registrar um Lepidoptera que causava injúrias à planta. A espécie foi identificada como Biclonuncaria deutera Razowski & Becker, 1993 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae).(AU)

Seed germination and development of desert rose seedlings (Adenium obesum Roem. & Schult) on different substrates / Germinação de sementes e desenvolvimento de mudas de rosa do deserto (Adenium obesum Roem. & Schult) em diferentes substratos

ABSTRACT: Desert rose (Adenium obesum) is a succulent plant that is native to the Arabian Peninsula. It has great commercial value with exuberant structure and flowering. It can be propagated by seeds to ensure maximum development of the caudex. Despite its high economic value, studies on its propagation are still required. The aim of this study was to evaluate seed germination performance and seedling development of desert rose seedlings in different substrates. Treatments comprised five different substrate compositions: S1 (Soil), S2 (Sand), S3 (Carolina Soil commercial substrate), S4 (Sand + Carolina Soil), and S5 (Soil+ Carolina Soil). The following were evaluated using uni- and multi-variate approaches: germination, first count, germination speed index, caudex diameter, number of leaves, seedling length, root length, shoot length, and fresh mass and dry mass. Sand is the ideal substrate for the germination of A. obesum seeds, while for forming seedlings, mixtures of the Carolina Soil commercial substrate with sand or soil should be used.

RESUMO: A rosa do deserto (Adenium obesum) é uma planta suculenta nativa da Península Arábica, apresenta grande valor comercial, com estrutura e floração exuberante. Sua propagação pode ser por meio de sementes para garantir o maior desenvolvimento do caudex. Apesar do alto valor econômico ainda se requerem estudos para sua propagação. O objetivo foi avaliar o desempenho germinativo de sementes e desenvolvimento de mudas de rosa-do-deserto em diferentes substratos. Os tratamentos constaram em cinco diferentes composições de substrato: S1 (Terra), S2 (Areia), S3 (substrato comercial Carolina Soil), S4 (Areia+ Carolina Soil) e S5 (Terra + Carolina Soil). Foram avaliados com abordagem uni e multivariada: germinação, primeira contagem, índice de velocidade de germinação, diâmetro do caudex, número de folhas, comprimento da plântula, comprimento da raiz, comprimento da parte aérea, massa fresca e massa seca. A areia é o substrato ideal para a germinação de sementes de A. obesum, enquanto que para a formação das mudas deve-se utilizar as misturas do substrato comercial Carolina Soil com areia ou terra.

Nitrogen Removal from Domestic Wastewater and the Development of Tropical Ornamental Plants in Partially Saturated Mesocosm-Scale Constructed Wetlands.

Vertical partially saturated (VPS) constructed wetlands (CWs) are a novel wastewater treatment system for which little information is known about its design parameters and performance under tropical climates. The objective of this study is to evaluate the nitrogen removal process from domestic wastewater and the production of tropical ornamental plants (Canna hybrids and Zantedeschia aethiopica) in VPS CWs at a mesocosms scale. Nine VPS CWs, with a free-flow zone of 16 cm and a saturated zone of 16 cm, were used as experimental units. Three units were planted with Canna hybrids., and three, with Zantedeschia aethiopica (one plant per unit); the remaining three units were established as controls without vegetation. They were fed with domestic wastewater intermittently and evaluated for the elimination of COD, N-NH4, N-NO3, Norg, NT, and PT. The results showed an increase in the removal for some pollutants in the vegetated systems, i.e., N-NH4 (35%), Norg (16%), TN (25%), and TP (47%) in comparison to the unvegetated systems. While N-NO3 removal showed better removal in 10% of the systems without vegetation, no significant differences were found (p > 0.05) for COD removal. The aerobic and anaerobic conditions in the VPS CWs favor the elimination of pollutants in the systems, and also the development of the tropical species evaluated in this study; good development was exhibited by a high growth rate and biomass production.

Evaluation of Wastewater Treatment by Microcosms of Vertical Subsurface Wetlands in Partially Saturated Conditions Planted with Ornamental Plants and Filled with Mineral and Plastic Substrates.

The current knowledge about the role terrestrial ornamental plants play in constructed wetlands (CWs) has scarcely been evaluated. Likewise, little attention has been given towards the use of new support or fill media for subsurface flow CWs, which may result in the reduction of costs when implemented on a large scale. This study evaluated, during nine months, the effect of three terrestrial ornamental plants and two substrates on the elimination of pollutants in wastewaters by using fill-and-drain vertical subsurface flow CWs (FD-CWs). Sixteen microcosms were used, nine filled with polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and nine with porous river stone (PRS). For each type of substrate, duplicates of microcosms were used, utilizing Anthurium sp., Zantedeschia aethiopica, and Spathiphyllum wallisii as vegetation and two other CWs without vegetation as controls. The environmental conditions, number of flowers, and height of the plants were registered. The results revealed that both substrates in the FD-CWs were efficient in removing pollutants. The average removal of pollutants in systems with vegetation revealed a positive effect on the reduction of the biochemical oxygen demand (55⁻70%), nitrates (28⁻44%), phosphates (25⁻45%), and fecal coliforms (52⁻65%). Meanwhile, in units without vegetation, the reduction of pollutants was nearly 40⁻50% less than in those with vegetation. The use of PET as a filling substrate in CWs did not affect the growth and/or the flowering of the species; therefore, its use combined with the species studied in CWs may be replicated in villages with similar wastewater problems. This may represent a reduction in implementation costs when utilizing PET recycled wastes and PRS as substrates in these systems in comparison with the typical substrates used in CWs. More studies are needed to better understand the interactions among these novel support media and the commercial terrestrial ornamental plants.

Slow-grown in vitro conservation of Heliconia champneiana cv. Splash under different light spectra

In vitro techniques, with the purpose of conserving the genetic resources of plants, are fundamental to the feasibility of establishing germplasm banks and enabling the commercial production of micropropagated plants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of different spectra of light in in vitro germplasm conservation by slow grown storage of Heliconia Champneiana cv. Splash. Explants of heliconia in vitro were submitted to the following light treatments: CW (control white), B100 (100 % blue), R100 (100 % red) and R70B30 (70 % red/30 % blue), all with PFD = 25 mol m2 s1, maintained in vitro for two time periods, namely P1, 6 weeks and P2, twelve weeks, and were statistically evaluated after each interval with respect to: height, fresh weight, number and length of roots, number of leaves, and pseudostem diameter, in addition to the rate of acclimatization in percentage terms. Treatment B100 presented the lowest level of development in the two periods, and 100 % survival in acclimatization.(AU)

Slow-grown in vitro conservation of Heliconia champneiana cv. Splash under different light spectra

In vitro techniques, with the purpose of conserving the genetic resources of plants, are fundamental to the feasibility of establishing germplasm banks and enabling the commercial production of micropropagated plants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of different spectra of light in in vitro germplasm conservation by slow grown storage of Heliconia Champneiana cv. Splash. Explants of heliconia in vitro were submitted to the following light treatments: CW (control white), B100 (100 % blue), R100 (100 % red) and R70B30 (70 % red/30 % blue), all with PFD = 25 mol m2 s1, maintained in vitro for two time periods, namely P1, 6 weeks and P2, twelve weeks, and were statistically evaluated after each interval with respect to: height, fresh weight, number and length of roots, number of leaves, and pseudostem diameter, in addition to the rate of acclimatization in percentage terms. Treatment B100 presented the lowest level of development in the two periods, and 100 % survival in acclimatization.

Organic waste vermicomposting through the addition of rock dust inoculated with domestic sewage wastewater.

The aims of the present study are to assess the organic waste vermicomposting process (cattle manure mixed with tannery sludge) by using inorganic waste (rock dust) inoculated with treated domestic wastewater sewage, as well as the vermicompost application in Ruellia brittoniana seedling production. Different proportions of organic and inorganic waste moistened (or not) in wastewater were vermicomposted (by Eisenia foetida) for 120 days in the first stage of the experiment. Statistically significant earthworm density increase was observed between the 60th and 90th experimental vermicompositing days in all the assessed groups. There was decreased E. foetida population density after 90 days. The K, P, TOC, C/N ratio and Ca, Na and Mg concentrations significantly decreased at the end of the vermicompositing process in comparison to the initial concentrations identified in most treatments. On the other hand, there was pH and N, Fe, Zn and Mn concentration increase in most of the vermicomposts assessed at the end of the experiment. All plants grown in soil containing vermicomposts presented higher Dickson Quality Index (DQI) than the control group, which was cultivated in soil containing commercial topsoil. Plants grown in soil containing 100% cattle manure and tannery sludge, moistened in treated domestic wastewater sewage, showed the highest DQI. Thus, the vermicomposting waste used in the present study, which was inoculated with treated domestic wastewater sewage, is an interesting vermicompost production technology to be used in ornamental plant production.

Toxicidade de espécies vegetais / Toxicity of plant species

RESUMO As plantas produzem uma grande variedade de metabólitos secundários que frequentemente são relacionados a mecanismos de proteção da planta contra predadores e patógenos. As espécies tóxicas são aquelas capazes de produzirem compostos que podem causar alterações metabólicas prejudiciais ao homem e aos animais. A toxicidade apresentada por uma espécie vegetal pode estar relacionada a fatores associados ao indivíduo, à planta, ao modo de exposição e a questões ambientais. A intoxicação, aguda ou crônica, causada por plantas é difícil de ser diagnosticada assim como a associação entre os sintomas e o consumo e/ou contato com algumas espécies é difícil de ser estabelecida. No âmbito da saúde pública, as intoxicações causadas por plantas possuem impacto expressivo. No Brasil foram registrados 1026 casos em 2012, sendo que a maior parte deles ocorreu com crianças de 0 a 4 anos, de acordo com os dados do SINITOX. O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar um levantamento bibliográfico de espécies vegetais, brasileiras e exóticas aclimatadas, citadas como tóxicas apesar de serem utilizadas com fins ornamentais e medicinais.

ABSTRACT Plants produce a wide variety of secondary metabolites, which are frequently related to a plant’s protective mechanism against predators and pathogens. Toxic species are those capable of producing compounds that can cause metabolic changes harmful to humans and animals. The toxicity of plant species can be associated with aspects related to the individual, the plant, the manner of exposure, and to environmental issues. Acute or chronic intoxication caused by plants is difficult to diagnose and the association between the symptoms and the consumption of and/or contact with plants is hard to establish. In the public health sector, intoxications caused by plants have a wide impact. In Brazil, 1,026 cases were registered in 2012, most of which occurred with children between the ages of 0 to 4 years, according to data reported by SINITOX. The purpose of this study was to perform a bibliographic survey of Brazilian or acclimatized exotic plant species, which have been reported as toxic even though they are used for ornamental or medicinal purposes.