Effects of riparian vegetation restoration and environmental context on ecosystem functioning in tropical streams of southeastern Brazil.

Tropical stream ecosystems are under increasing human pressure, making the development of effective restoration approaches and expanding knowledge in this field urgent. This study evaluated the impact of riparian vegetation restoration and environmental context on stream ecosystem functioning by measuring key ecosystem functions - gross primary production (GPP), ecosystem respiration (ER), and nutrient uptake of ammonium and soluble reactive phosphorus - across ten tropical streams in southeastern Brazil. The streams represented a gradient from clearcut areas (impacted reaches) to relatively pristine conditions (reference reaches), including intermediate stages of vegetation recovery (restored reaches). In the short-term (~15-20 years after restoration), restoration led to reduced GPP akin to reference reaches. Yet, ER did not show the anticipated increase, suggesting a longer timeframe is necessary for restored streams to emulate the functional characteristics of reference reaches. Additionally, the restored reaches did not achieve the nutrient uptake efficiencies observed in both impacted and reference reaches, pointing to a partial recovery of ecosystem function. This study suggests that while riparian vegetation restoration contributes positively to certain aspects of stream function, environmental variables less related to this type of restoration, such as discharge and hydromorphology, significantly influence stream ecosystem functioning, highlighting the importance of considering environmental context in restoration efforts. A more holistic approach, possibly encompassing broader hydromorphological and habitat enhancements, is needed to fully restore ecological processes in these vital ecosystems. These insights are critical for informing future tropical stream restoration projects, advocating the use of ecosystem function metrics as comprehensive indicators of ecological recovery and restoration success.

Rhizophagus intraradices and Azospirillum brasilense improve growth of herbaceous plants and soil biological activity in revegetation of a recovering coal-mining area.

We assessed, in a field experiment, the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Rhizophagus intraradices) and plant growth-promoting bacteria (Azospirillum brasilense) on the soil biological activity and the growth of key pioneer species used in the revegetation of coal-mining areas undergoing recovery. We applied four inoculation treatments to the pioneer plant species (Lablab purpureus, Paspalum notatum, Crotalaria juncea, Neonotonia wightii, Stylosanthes guianensis, Andropogon gayanus and Trifolium repens) used in the recovery process: NI (Control - Non-inoculated), AZO (A. brasilense), AMF (R. intraradices), and co-inoculation of AZO and AMF. On the 75th and 180th days, we measured plant dry mass, mycorrhizal colonization, N and P concentration, and accumulation in plant tissue. We collected soil to quantify glomalin content and soil enzyme activity. After 180 days, we did a phytosociological characterization of the remaining spontaneous plants.The both microorganisms, singly or co-inoculated, promoted increases in different fractions of soil glomalin, acid phosphatase activity, and fluorescein diacetate activity at 75 and 180 days. The inoculation was linked to higher plant biomass production (62-89%) and increased plant P and N accumulation by 34-75% and 70-85% at 180 days, compared with the non-inoculated treatment. Among the pioneer species sown Crotalaria juncea produced the highest biomass at the 75th and 180th days (67% and 76% of all biomass), followed by Lablab purpureus (3% and 0.5%), while the other species failed to establish. At 180 days, we observed twenty spontaneous plant species growing in the area, primarily from the Poaceae family (74%). That suggests that the pioneer species present in the area do not hinder the ecological succession process. Inoculation of R. intraradices and A. brasilense, isolated or combined, increases soil biological activity, growth, and nutrient accumulation in key pioneer plant species, indicating the potential of that technique for the recovery of lands degraded by coal mining.

Amelioration of aluminum phytotoxicity in Solanum lycopersicum by co-inoculation of plant growth promoting Kosakonia radicincitans strain CABV2 and Streptomyces corchorusii strain CASL5.

Aluminum (Al) toxicity is the main constraint for crop cultivation in acidic soils. In this study, Al-tolerant rhizobacteria Kosakonia radicincitans (CABV2) and actinobacteria Streptomyces corchorusii (CASL5) were isolated from Beta vulgaris rhizosphere in acidic soil. Both isolates displayed high tolerance to Al (10 mM), produce siderophores, indole-3-acetic acid, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate and solubilize phosphate. Co-inoculation of CABV2 and CASL5 strains were significantly increased the root length (312.90%), shoot length (183.19%), fresh weight (224.82%), dry weight (309.25%) and photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a 279.69%, chlorophyll b 188.23% and carotenoids 158.20%) of Solanum lycopersicum plants under 300 mg Al kg-1 soil conditions as compared to uninoculated Al stressed plants. Similarly, the co-inoculation treated plants subjected to Al stress condition enhanced the uptake of essential nutrients (N 229%, P 252%, K 115%, Fe 185%, Mg 345% and Ca 202%) by plants as compared to Al stressed uninoculated plants. Under Al stress (300 mg Al kg-1 soil), co-inoculation significantly decreased malondialdehyde content (66%), and increased catalase (83%), superoxide dismutase (82%), peroxidase (89%) activities and root exudates (organic acids 6.44-12.36 fold) in S. lycopersicum as compared to uninoculated plants, indicating that the CABV2 and CASL5 strains were reduced Al-induced oxidative stress. Moreover, co-inoculation significantly reduced Al accumulation in the root (89%), stem (95%) and leaves (94%) of S. lycopersicum under Al stress at 300 mg Al kg-1 soil, compared to the uninoculated plants. This is the first report of K. radicincitans strain CABV2 and S. corchorusii strain CASL5 potentially reducing Al uptake in S. lycopersicum.

Sensitivity of tuberous roots crops to salinity in a protected environment / Sensibilidade de culturas de raízes tuberosas à salinidade em ambiente protegido

Soil salinity has been a limiting barrier for the production of vegetables in protected environments. Thus, the understanding of the sensitivity of species to this stress factor must be explored, seeking better growing conditions.Under the hypothesis that beet and radish crops are sensitive to variations in soil salinity, even at low levels, the objective of this work was to evaluate the development and productivity of these two species in soils with different salinities in a protected environment. The experimental design was completely randomized and treatments were formed by the soil salinity levels, obtained with the application of saline solution (NaCl in water), considering the soil electrical conductivity of 0.36 dS m-1as low salinity, of 1.05 dS m-1as moderate salinity and 2.43 dS m-1as elevated. For all variables analyzed, except for the relative chlorophyll index in beet plants, it was found that the increase in soil salinity resulted in significant development losses of beet and radish plants. Therefore, we concluded that beet and radish crops are sensitive to the variation in soil salinity, even in relatively low concentrations, making these species an unattractive choice for cultivation in systems that present this problem.(AU)

A salinidade dos solos tem sido uma barreira limitadora para a produção de hortaliças em ambientes protegidos. Assim, o entendimento quanto a sensibilidade das espécies a esse fator de estresse deve ser explorado, buscando melhores condições de cultivo. Sob a hipótese de que as culturas de beterraba e rabanete são sensíveis às variações da salinidade do solo, mesmo em níveis baixos, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desenvolvimento e a produtividade dessas duas espécies em solos comdiferentes salinidades em ambiente protegido. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado e os tratamentos foram formados pelos níveis de salinidade do solo, obtidos com a aplicação de solução salina (NaCl em água), considerando a condutividade elétrica do solo de 0,36 dS m-1como baixa salinidade, de 1,05 dS m-1como salinidade moderada e 2,43 dS m-1como elevada. Para todas as variáveis analisadas, com exceção do índice relativo de clorofila em plantas de beterraba, verificou-se que o aumento da salinidade do solo resultou em perdas significativas de desenvolvimento de plantas de beterraba e rabanete. Assim, concluímos que as culturas de beterraba e rabanete são sensíveis à variação da salinidade do solo, mesmo em concentrações relativamente baixas, tornando essas espécies uma escolha pouco atrativa para cultivo em sistemas que apresentam este problema.(AU)

Inoculation of Azospirillum brasilense and exogenous application of trans-zeatin riboside alleviates arsenic induced physiological damages in wheat (Triticum aestivum).

Due to increased industrialization, arsenic (As) in the soil has become a serious issue for wheat production since past few decades. We investigated the role of Azospirillum brasilense and trans-zeatin riboside (tZR) in the mitigation of arsenic toxicity in wheat for 2 years (2018-2019 and 2019-2020) in pot experiments. Wheat plants grown in soil artificially spiked with arsenic (50, 70, and 100 µM) was left alone or amended with A. brasilense, tZR, or their combination as mitigation strategies. A treatment without arsenic or amendments was maintained as control. Arsenic-induced physiological damages were noticed in the wheat plants. Detrimental effects on the plant physiological functions, such as disruption of cell membrane stability, reduced water uptake, and stomatal functions, were noticed with increase in As toxicity. Application of biological amendments reversed the effects of As toxicity by increasing wheat plant growth rate, leaf area, and photosynthesis and also yield. Therefore, application of tZR and wheat seed inoculation with A. brasilense could be a sustainable and environmentally friendly strategy to mitigate arsenic-induced crop physiological damages.

Nanozinc and plant growth-promoting bacteria improve biochemical and metabolic attributes of maize in tropical Cerrado.

Introduction: Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPBs) could be developed as a sustainable strategy to promote plant growth and yield to feed the ever-growing global population with nutritious food. Foliar application of nano-zinc oxide (ZnO) is an environmentally safe strategy that alleviates zinc (Zn) malnutrition by improving biochemical attributes and storage proteins of grain. Methods: In this context, the current study aimed to investigate the combined effect of seed inoculation with PGPBs and foliar nano-ZnO application on the growth, biochemical attributes, nutrient metabolism, and yield of maize in the tropical savannah of Brazil. The treatments consisted of four PGPB inoculations [i.e., without inoculation, Azospirillum brasilense (A. brasilense), Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis), Pseudomonas fluorescens (P. fluorescens), which was applied on the seeds] and two doses of Zn (i.e., 0 and 3 kg ha-1, applied from nano-ZnO in two splits on the leaf). Results: Inoculation of B. subtilis with foliar ZnO application increased shoot dry matter (7.3 and 9.8%) and grain yield (17.1 and 16.7%) in 2019-20 and 2020-2021 crop seasons respectively. Inoculation with A. brasilense increased 100-grains weight by 9.5% in both crop seasons. Shoot Zn accumulation was improved by 30 and 51% with inoculation of P. fluorescens in 2019-20 and 2020-2021 crop seasons. Whereas grain Zn accumulation was improved by 49 and 50.7% with inoculation of B. subtilis and P. fluorescens respectively. In addition, biochemical attributes (chlorophyll a, b and total, carotenoids, total soluble sugar and amino acids) were improved with inoculation of B. subtilis along with foliar nano ZnO application as compared to other treatments. Co-application of P. fluorescens with foliar ZnO improved concentration of grains albumin (20 and 13%) and globulin (39 and 30%). Also, co-application of B. subtilis and foliar ZnO improved concentration of grains glutelin (8.8 and 8.7%) and prolamin (15 and 21%) in first and second seasons. Discussion: Therefore, inoculation of B. subtilis and P. fluorescens with foliar nano-ZnO application is considered a sustainable and environmentally safe strategy for improving the biochemical, metabolic, nutritional, and productivity attributes of maize in tropical Savannah regions.

Concentration and moment of niacin application on Urochloa brizantha in relation to nitrogen fertilization / Concentração e momento de aplicação de niacina em Urochloa brizantha em relação à adubação nitrogenada

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of applying different concentrations of niacin, at different times in relation to nitrogen fertilization, on the characteristics of Urochloa brizantha. The treatments consisted of applying three concentrations of niacin (0, 100, and 200 mg L-1) and three different moments (two days before, together, and two days after nitrogen fertilization). It was found that there was variation in response, mainly concerning the moment of application of the vitamins, in which the joint and subsequent application of fertilization generally exceeded the application performed previously, and of both concentrations used (100 and 200 mg L-1), in relation to the control without vitamin application. In this way, the application of niacin at a concentration of 100 mg L-1, carried out jointly or after nitrogen fertilization, provides better conditions for developing and producing dry matter of Urochloa brizantha due to the presence of nitrogen.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito da aplicação de diferentes concentrações de niacina, em momentos distintos em relação à adubação nitrogenada, sobre as características de Urochloa brizantha. Os tratamentos foram compostos pela aplicação de três concentrações de niacina (0, 100 e 200 mg L-1) e três momentos distintos (dois dias antes, juntamente e dois dias após a adubação nitrogenada). Verificou-se que houve variação de resposta, principalmente em relação ao momento de aplicação das vitaminas, em que as aplicações conjunta e posterior à adubação superaram, de maneira geral, a aplicação realizada anteriormente, e de ambas as concentrações utilizadas (100 e 200 mg L-1), em relação ao controle sem vitamina. Desta maneira, a aplicação de niacina em concentração de 100 mg L-1, realizada de maneira conjunta ou posterior à adubação nitrogenada, propicia melhores condições para o desenvolvimento e a produção de matéria seca de Urochloa brizantha, devido à presença do nitrogênio.

Potassium uptake kinetics in native forage grass species from Pampa Biome / Cinética de absorção de potássio em espécies de gramíneas forrageiras nativas do bioma Pampa

This study quantified K uptake kinetic parameters in grass species Paspalum notatum, Paspalum urvillei and Axonopus affinis to associate them with growth. Ten milliliters (10 ml) of nutrient solution were collected in two-liter pots - with five repetitions in 24 hours - in order to determine K concentrations in the samples. Shoot and root dry matter, root length, volume, diameter and surface area, as well as kinetic parameters associated with nutrient uptake (Vmax, Km, Cmin and I) were determined. Species P. notatum was the one presenting the highest root, shoot and total dry matter production, as well as the highest root volume. P. urvillei recorded the highest K content, which may be associated with thinner roots and greater root surface area. A. affinis recorded the highest Vmax value, which led to greater K uptake efficiency.

O estudo quantificou os parâmetros cinéticos de captação de K nas gramíneas Paspalum notatum, Paspalum urvillei e Axonopus affinis associados com o crescimento. Dez mililitros (10 ml) de solução nutritiva foram coletados em vasos de dois litros - com cinco repetições em 24 horas - para determinação das concentrações de K nas amostras. A matéria seca da parte aérea e raízes; comprimento, volume, diâmetro e área superficial radicular, bem como parâmetros cinéticos associados à absorção de nutrientes (Vmax, Km, Cmin e I) foram avaliados. A espécie P. notatum apresentou a maior produção de raiz, parte aérea e MS total, bem como o maior volume de raiz. P. urvillei apresentou o maior teor de K, que pode ser associado a raízes mais finas e resultando em maior área superficial. A. affinis registrou o maior valor de Vmax, o que levou a uma maior eficiência de absorção de K.

Concentration and moment of niacin application on Urochloa brizantha in relation to nitrogen fertilization / Concentração e momento de aplicação de niacina em Urochloa brizantha em relação à adubação nitrogenada

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of applying different concentrations of niacin, at different times in relation to nitrogen fertilization, on the characteristics of Urochloa brizantha. The treatments consisted of applying three concentrations of niacin (0, 100, and 200 mg L-1) and three different moments (two days before, together, and two days after nitrogen fertilization). It was found that there was variation in response, mainly concerning the moment of application of the vitamins, in which the joint and subsequent application of fertilization generally exceeded the application performed previously, and of both concentrations used (100 and 200 mg L-1), in relation to the control without vitamin application. In this way, the application of niacin at a concentration of 100 mg L-1, carried out jointly or after nitrogen fertilization, provides better conditions for developing and producing dry matter of Urochloa brizantha due to the presence of nitrogen.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito da aplicação de diferentes concentrações de niacina, em momentos distintos em relação à adubação nitrogenada, sobre as características de Urochloa brizantha. Os tratamentos foram compostos pela aplicação de três concentrações de niacina (0, 100 e 200 mg L-1) e três momentos distintos (dois dias antes, juntamente e dois dias após a adubação nitrogenada). Verificou-se que houve variação de resposta, principalmente em relação ao momento de aplicação das vitaminas, em que as aplicações conjunta e posterior à adubação superaram, de maneira geral, a aplicação realizada anteriormente, e de ambas as concentrações utilizadas (100 e 200 mg L-1), em relação ao controle sem vitamina. Desta maneira, a aplicação de niacina em concentração de 100 mg L-1, realizada de maneira conjunta ou posterior à adubação nitrogenada, propicia melhores condições para o desenvolvimento e a produção de matéria seca de Urochloa brizantha, devido à presença do nitrogênio.

Microalgae as biostimulants: a new approach in agriculture.

This review aims to elucidate the state of the art of microalgae-based biostimulants as a tool in agriculture by summarizing the biologically active compounds factors that influence the use of microalgae biostimulants and their application methods in the field. Additionally, we examined the factors that support the use of microalgal biostimulants to face abiotic and biotic stress in crop plants. The use of microalgae in crop production and the benefits of seed preparation, foliar application, soil drenching, and hydroponic treatments were discussed. Furthermore, the use of these biostimulants in crop plants and their multiple benefits such as, better rooting, higher crop, fruit yields, drought and salinity tolerance, photosynthetic activity and pathogen resistance was thoroughly presented. The present situation of microalgal biostimulants and their difficulties in the market was analyzed, as well as the perspectives of their use. However, data shows that microalgal derived biostimulants can be used as an alternative for the protection of crops and plant growth regulators and play a significant key role in increasing the levels of production, yield and health of crops. Special interest needs to focus on investigating more microalgae species and their biological active compound factors, due to the largely untapped field. Perspectives regarding future research lines and development priorities were included.

Humic Substances in Combination With Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria as an Alternative for Sustainable Agriculture.

Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) and humic substances (HSs) are promising options for reducing the use of pesticides and mineral fertilizers. Although many studies have shown the effects of PGPB and HSs separately, little information is available on plant responses to the combined application of these biostimulants despite the great potential for the simultaneous action of these biological inputs. Thus, the objective of this review is to present an overview of scientific studies that addressed the application of PGPB and HSs to different crops. First, we discuss the effect of these biostimulants on biological nitrogen fixation, the various effects of the inoculation of beneficial bacteria combined with the application of HSs on promoting the growth of nonleguminous plants and how this combination can increase bacterial colonization of plant hosts. We also address the effect of PGPB and HSs on plant responses to abiotic stresses, in addition to discussing the role of HSs in protecting plants against pathogens. There is a lack of studies that address the role of PGPB + HSs in biocontrol. Understanding the factors involved in the promotion of plant growth through the application of PGPB and HSs can assist in the development of efficient biostimulants for agricultural management. This approach has the potential to accelerate the transition from conventional cultivation to sustainable agrosystems.

Plant-Growth-Promoting Bacteria Can Impact Zinc Uptake in Zea mays: An Examination of the Mechanisms of Action Using Functional Mutants of Azospirillum brasilense.

Among the PGPB, the genus Azospirillum-with an emphasis on A. brasilense-is likely the most studied microorganism for mitigation of plant stress. Here, we report the investigation of functional mutants HM053, ipdC and FP10 of A. brasilense to understand how the biological functions of these microorganisms can affect host Zn uptake. HM053 is a Nif+ constitutively expressed strain that hyper-fixes N2 and produces high levels of the plant's relevant hormone auxin. FP10 is a Nif- strain deficient in N2-fixation. ipdC is a strain that is deficient in auxin production but fixes N2. Zn uptake was measured in laboratory-based studies of 3-week-old plants using radioactive 65Zn2+ (t½ 244 days). Principal Component Analysis was applied to draw out correlations between microbial functions and host 65Zn2+ accumulation. Additionally, statistical correlations were made to our prior data on plant uptake of radioactive 59Fe3+ and 59Fe2+. These correlations showed that low microbial auxin-producing capacity resulted in the greatest accumulation of 65Zn. Just the opposite effect was noted for 59Fe where high microbial auxin-producing capacity resulted in the greatest accumulation of that tracer.

Efecto del pH sobre la concentración de nutrientes en cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) en la Amazonia Colombiana / Effect of pH on the nutrient concentration in cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) in the Colombian Amazon

RESUMEN La acidez del suelo limita la disponibilidad, la absorción y la concentración de nutrientes y el rendimiento del cultivo de cacao. El objetivo fue evaluar el efecto del pH del suelo sobre la concentración de nutrientes en hoja, cáscara y grano, para cuatro clones de cacao autocompatibles (ICS-1, CCN-51) y autoincompatibles (ICS-39, TSH-565), en el departamento del Caquetá. El diseño experimental consistió en un arreglo factorial con cuatro clones (factor A), cuatro niveles de pH y fertilidad (factor B) y cuatro repeticiones. Los resultados indican diferencias en la concentración de nutrientes por efecto del clon y tratamiento, siendo la acumulación de N, P y Mg en grano>hoja>cáscara, K en cáscara>hoja>grano, Ca, Fe, Mn, Zn y B en hoja>cáscara>grano, S en cáscara>hoja>grano y Cu en grano>cáscara>hoja. La concentración de P, Mg y S fue mayor y, a su vez, menor Mn, cuando aumentó el pH. El orden de extracción nutrimental en grano fue N>K>P>Mg>S>Ca>Fe>Mn>Zn>Cu>B. Con relación a los clones, CCN-51 presentó habilidad para la toma de nutrientes y alcanzar mayores producciones, incluso, en suelos con pH ≥ 5,5, lo que sugiere efecto de las condiciones edafoclimáticas y, por lo tanto, la necesidad de evaluar los clones para cada zona de cultivo.

ABSTRACT The soil acidity limits availability, absorption and concentration of nutrients and yield of the cocoa crop. The objective was to evaluate the effect of soil pH on the concentration of macro and micronutrients in leaf, husk and grain for four cocoa clones, self-compatible (ICS-1, CCN-51) and self-incompatible (ICS-39, TSH-565) in the department of Caquetá. The experimental design consisted in a factorial arrangement with four clones (factor A), four pH and fertility levels (factor B) and four repetitions. The results indicate differences in the concentration of nutrients due to the effect of the clone and the treatment, being the accumulation of N, P and Mg in grain>leaf>husk, K in husk>leaf>grain, Ca, Fe, Mn, Zn y B in leaf>husk>grain, S in husk>leaf>grain and Cu in grain>husk>leaf. The concentration of P, Mg and S was higher, and in turn Mn lower, when the pH increased. The order of nutrient extraction in grain was N>K>P>Mg>S>Ca>Fe>Mn>Zn>Cu>B. Regarding clones, CCN-51 showed ability to take nutrients and reach higher productions, even in soils with pH ≥ 5.5, suggesting effect of edaphoclimatic conditions, and therefore, the need to evaluate the clones for each growing area.

Modeling of productivity and nutrient extraction by the Vetiver and Tifton 85 grasses grown in horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the productivity of shoot dry biomass and the capacity of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) extraction by the Vetiver and Tifton 85 grasses when cultivated in horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands (HSSF-CWs) whose porous medium was saturated with solutions containing different nutrient availability. The grass shoots were cut every 30 days to determine the productivity and N, P and K contents in the plant tissue. Models of productivity and the extraction capacity of each nutrient were obtained as a function of the nutrient concentration. Based on the results obtained, it was verified that the productivity of shoot dry biomass and the extractions of N, P and K by the Vetiver grass increased linearly with the nutrient availability of the nutritive solution. In relation to Tifton 85, quadratic models of productivity and N and K extraction were adjusted. The maximum productivity, N, P and K extraction by Vetiver grass were 513.4, 8.2, 1.9 and 10.39 g m-2 month-1, respectively. In relation to Tifton 85 grass, these values were 739.4, 30.8, 3.0 and 15.59 g m-2 month-1 for productivity, N, P and K extraction, respectively.

A New Method to Reconstruct Quantitative Food Webs and Nutrient Flows from Isotope Tracer Addition Experiments.

Understanding how nutrients flow through food webs is central in ecosystem ecology. Tracer addition experiments are powerful tools to reconstruct nutrient flows by adding an isotopically enriched element into an ecosystem and tracking its fate through time. Historically, the design and analysis of tracer studies have varied widely, ranging from descriptive studies to modeling approaches of varying complexity. Increasingly, isotope tracer data are being used to compare ecosystems and analyze experimental manipulations. Currently, a formal statistical framework for analyzing such experiments is lacking, making it impossible to calculate the estimation errors associated with the model fit, the interdependence of compartments, and the uncertainty in the diet of consumers. In this article we develop a method based on Bayesian hidden Markov models and apply it to the analysis of N15-NH4+ tracer additions in two Trinidadian streams in which light was experimentally manipulated. Through this case study, we illustrate how to estimate N fluxes between ecosystem compartments, turnover rates of N within those compartments, and the associated uncertainty. We also show how the method can be used to compare alternative models of food web structure, calculate the error around derived parameters, and make statistical comparisons between sites or treatments.

Screening of Beneficial Microorganisms to Improve Soybean Growth and Yield

Abstract The objective of this research was to identify the best microorganisms, alone or in mixture for total biomass gain (root + shoot), positive change in gas exchange, nutrient uptake (root, shoot and grain) and yield and yield components in the soybean crop. Trial under greenhouse conditions had the experimental design in a completely randomized scheme with 26 treatments and four replicates. The treatments consisted of the rhizobacteria BRM 32109, BRM 32110 and 1301 (Bacillus sp.), BRM 32111 and BRM 32112 (Pseudomonas sp.), BRM 32113 (Burkholderia sp.), BRM 32114 (Serratia sp.), Ab-V5 (Azospirillum brasilense) and 1381 (Azospirillum sp.), and the fungus Trichoderma asperellum (a mix of the isolates UFRA.T06, UFRA.T09, UFRA.T12 and UFRA.T52). Besides, the same isolates were combined in pairs, completing 16 combinations. Control treatments received no microorganism. Microorganisms applied isolated or in combination, provided biomass gain, positive gas exchange, increases in nutrients uptake at the shoot and grain, and improved grain yield and its components than control plants. Stood out the combination Ab-V5 + T. asperellum pool, which provided a 25% improvement in grain yield.

In Vivo Evaluation of Zn Foliar Uptake and Transport in Soybean Using X-ray Absorption and Fluorescence Spectroscopy.

Understanding the mechanisms of absorption and transport of foliar nutrition is a key step towards the development of advanced fertilization methods. This study employed X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES) to trace the in vivo absorption and transport of ZnO and ZnSO4(aq) to soybean leaves (Glycine max). XRF maps monitored over 48 h showed a shape change of the dried ZnSO4(aq) droplet, indicating Zn2+ absorption. Conversely, these maps did not show short movement of Zn from ZnO. XRF measurements on petioles of leaves that received Zn2+ treatments clarified that the Zn absorption and transport in the form of ZnSO4(aq) was faster that of ZnO. Solubility was the major factor driving ZnSO4(aq) absorption. XANES speciation showed that in planta Zn is transported coordinated with organic acids. Because plants demand Zn during their entire lifecycle, the utilization of sources with different solubilities can increase Zn use efficiency.

Growth and differential salinity reduction between Portulaca oleracea and Eichhornia crassipes in experimental hydroponic units.

We evaluated the salinity reduction of the experimental saline solutions through ion uptake capacity of two plant species, purslane (PU) (Portulaca oleraceae) and water hyacinth (WH) (Eichhornia crassipes). These species were grown in experimental hydroponic units simulating a floating system. The hydroponic system contained treatments with three nutrient solutions identified as A1, A2, and A3 composed of fixed concentrations of macro and micronutrients to which three different concentrations of sodium chloride had been added. After the experimental period, physicochemical and volume changes in the saline nutrient solutions were evaluated. The relative growth rate results were similar for both plant species, but with lower consumption of hydroponic nutrient solutions by PU. Despite higher solution volume loss, regardless of the nutrient solution applied, WH had greater weekly estimated potential of reduction of macronutrients (calcium and magnesium; >50%); however, PU showed the best weekly potential reduction of sodium (36%) with solution A2. Therefore, both plants present potential to be used for salinity reduction in the natural conditions.

Collard green yield and nutritional quality with mineral and organic fertilization / Produção e qualidade nutricional de couve-de-folha com adubação mineral e orgânica

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of organic and mineral fertilization on collard green yield, and to assess the macro and micronutrient and heavy metal concentrations of its leaves to assess the potential hazards of manure use. Collard plants (Brassica oleracea var. acephala, cv. couve-manteiga) were grown in 4-L pots filled with a clay soil under greenhouse conditions. The experimental design used was completely randomized design and the treatments in a 3 × 4 factorial arrangement: three N sources (pig slurry, poultry manure, and urea) and four N rates (0, 100, 200 and 300 mg kg-1), with four replicates. Collard greens leaves were harvested 70 days after seedling plantings. The manure application (pig slurry or poultry manure) resulted in collard yield equivalent to the application of mineral fertilizer. However, the pig slurry application resulted in an increase of leaf Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Cr, and Pb concentrations. Nitrogen application rates up to 300 mg N kg-1 result in the higher yield and nutritional quality of collard leaves. The application of high rates of manure, especially pig slurry, results in the increase of heavy metal (Cd, Cr, and Pb) concentrations. However, the maximum concentrations of 0.042 mg kg-1 Cd, 0.034 mg kg-1 Cr and 0.030 mg kg-1 Pb are well lower than maximum daily intake limit established by the Brazilian legislation, indicating that the consumption of collards from organic production systems with the manure application can be considered safe and without risk to human health.(AU)

Foi realizado um estudo para avaliar o efeito da aplicação de esterco e fertilizante mineral na produção e na qualidade nutricional de couve (Brassica oleracea var. acephala, cv. couve-manteiga). As plantas de couve foram cultivadas em vasos de 4 L preenchidos com um solo argiloso em condições de casa-de-vegetação. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado e os tratamentos em um arranjo fatorial 3 × 4: três fontes de N (dejetos de suínos, esterco de aves e ureia) e quatro doses de N (0, 100, 200 e 300 mg kg-1), com quatro repetições. As folhas de couve foram colhidas 70 dias após o plantio das mudas. A aplicação de esterco (dejetos de suínos ou esterco de aves) resultou em rendimento de couve equivalente à aplicação de fertilizante mineral, indicando que o requerimento de nutrientes das plantas foram totalmente atendidos pela aplicação de esterco animal. No entanto, a aplicação de dejetos de suínos resultou no aumento das concentrações de Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Cr e Pb nas folhas. A aplicação de N até a dose de 300 mg kg-1 indicou maior rendimento e melhor qualidade nutricional das folhas de couve. A aplicação de taxas elevadas de esterco, especialmente de dejeto suíno, implica no aumento da concentração de metais pesados nas folhas de couve. No entanto, as concentrações máximas obtidas de 0,042 mg kg-1 de Cd, 0,034 mg kg-1 de Cr e 0,030 mg kg-1 de Pb são muito inferiores ao limite máximo de consumo diário estabelecido pela legislação brasileira, indicando que o consumo de couve-de-folha oriunda dos sistemas de produção orgânicos com a aplicação de esterco animal pode ser considerado seguro e sem risco para a saúde humana.(AU)

Collard green yield and nutritional quality with mineral and organic fertilization / Produção e qualidade nutricional de couve-de-folha com adubação mineral e orgânica

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of organic and mineral fertilization on collard green yield, and to assess the macro and micronutrient and heavy metal concentrations of its leaves to assess the potential hazards of manure use. Collard plants (Brassica oleracea var. acephala, cv. couve-manteiga) were grown in 4-L pots filled with a clay soil under greenhouse conditions. The experimental design used was completely randomized design and the treatments in a 3 × 4 factorial arrangement: three N sources (pig slurry, poultry manure, and urea) and four N rates (0, 100, 200 and 300 mg kg-1), with four replicates. Collard greens leaves were harvested 70 days after seedling plantings. The manure application (pig slurry or poultry manure) resulted in collard yield equivalent to the application of mineral fertilizer. However, the pig slurry application resulted in an increase of leaf Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Cr, and Pb concentrations. Nitrogen application rates up to 300 mg N kg-1 result in the higher yield and nutritional quality of collard leaves. The application of high rates of manure, especially pig slurry, results in the increase of heavy metal (Cd, Cr, and Pb) concentrations. However, the maximum concentrations of 0.042 mg kg-1 Cd, 0.034 mg kg-1 Cr and 0.030 mg kg-1 Pb are well lower than maximum daily intake limit established by the Brazilian legislation, indicating that the consumption of collards from organic production systems with the manure application can be considered safe and without risk to human health.

Foi realizado um estudo para avaliar o efeito da aplicação de esterco e fertilizante mineral na produção e na qualidade nutricional de couve (Brassica oleracea var. acephala, cv. couve-manteiga). As plantas de couve foram cultivadas em vasos de 4 L preenchidos com um solo argiloso em condições de casa-de-vegetação. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado e os tratamentos em um arranjo fatorial 3 × 4: três fontes de N (dejetos de suínos, esterco de aves e ureia) e quatro doses de N (0, 100, 200 e 300 mg kg-1), com quatro repetições. As folhas de couve foram colhidas 70 dias após o plantio das mudas. A aplicação de esterco (dejetos de suínos ou esterco de aves) resultou em rendimento de couve equivalente à aplicação de fertilizante mineral, indicando que o requerimento de nutrientes das plantas foram totalmente atendidos pela aplicação de esterco animal. No entanto, a aplicação de dejetos de suínos resultou no aumento das concentrações de Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Cr e Pb nas folhas. A aplicação de N até a dose de 300 mg kg-1 indicou maior rendimento e melhor qualidade nutricional das folhas de couve. A aplicação de taxas elevadas de esterco, especialmente de dejeto suíno, implica no aumento da concentração de metais pesados nas folhas de couve. No entanto, as concentrações máximas obtidas de 0,042 mg kg-1 de Cd, 0,034 mg kg-1 de Cr e 0,030 mg kg-1 de Pb são muito inferiores ao limite máximo de consumo diário estabelecido pela legislação brasileira, indicando que o consumo de couve-de-folha oriunda dos sistemas de produção orgânicos com a aplicação de esterco animal pode ser considerado seguro e sem risco para a saúde humana.