Inteligencia Artificial en la Agricultura: Retos, Oportunidades y Estrategias para su adopción.

La adopción de inteligencia artificial (IA) en la agricultura se encuentra aún en etapas iniciales ya que se trata de un sector tradicional donde la resistencia al cambio y la falta de infraestructura tecnológica representan barreras importantes. Sin embargo, esta tecnología tiene potencial para revolucionar el sector facilitando la integración y análisis de datos y conocimientos que posibiliten estrategias de agricultura de precisión e incorporación de tecnologías como la robótica. Entre las aplicaciones prácticas que podrían integrar esta tecnología se encuentran la predicción temprana de cosechas, el diagnóstico nutricional e hídrico que optimicen el uso eficiente de recursos como fertilizantes y agua, la reducción de fitosanitarios mediante detección y diagnóstico temprano de plagas y mapas de riesgo, todo ello integrando datos provenientes de otras fuentes como archivos históricos, climáticos o de mercado. La IA se presenta, además, como una herramienta esencial para facilitar el cumplimiento de normativas cada vez más exigentes, la adaptación al cambio climático y la mejora de la competitividad. Para superar los obstáculos actuales en su implantación, es clave desarrollar soluciones accesibles, mejorar la capacitación de los agricultores en tecnologías digitales y fomentar políticas públicas que impulsen la digitalización del secto

La adición de glicerol y el envasado a temperatura ambiente no afectan a la calidad del semen descongelado de caprino

El protocolo de congelación de semen de caprino consta de varias etapas. Entre ellas se encuentran la adición de crioprotectores tras la refrigeración a 4 °C para minimizar la toxicidad del crioprotector, el equilibrado a 4 ºC para mejorar la estabilización de membranas, y el envasado a 4 °C. Pero el equili brado prolonga la duración del proceso y la adición del crioprotector y el envasado requieren que el técnico trabaje a baja temperatura, existiendo el riesgo del calentamiento de la muestra al manipular las pajuelas. Por ello, el objetivo de este estudio fue comparar el protocolo de congelación estándar con procesos alternativos en los que la adición del glicerol (G) y el envasado se realizan a temperatura ambiente, antes de comenzar la etapa de refrigeración a 4 °

Relación entre los atributos de calidad de la fruta de la granada (Punica granatum L.) ‘Mollar de Elche’ y el pardeamiento del arilo

El granado es una especie frutal de las regiones agrícolas de clima árido y semi-árido mediterráneo muy apreciada por la composición del fruto y características organolépticas. Sin embargo, recientemente en los principales países productores la calidad de la fruta está siendo afectada por una alteración fisiológica denominada pardeamiento del arilo (AB) en el que una parte o la totalidad de los arilos muestran pérdida del color rojizo o pardeamiento. Esta alteración se ha convertido en una seria preocupación para los productores, teniendo un impacto negativo en los consumidores, ya que dichos frutos no son comercialmente aptos. Las causas que se consideran asociadas al AB son el estrés producido por el aumento de la temperatura, la sequía y/o la radiación luminosa que afecta a los procesos metabólicos durante el desarrollo del fruto. La granada es un fruto rico en compuestos polifenólicos con propiedades antioxidantes. El estrés abiótico producido en las plantas provoca un aumento en el contenido de especies reactivas de oxígeno (ROS) que aumenta las reacciones de oxidación de los polifenoles y la degradación de membranas. Este trabajo estudia la relación entre la posición de la fruta en el árbol (orientación y parte del árbol) y las características fisicoquímicas (tamaño del fruto, grosor de corteza, color exterior, color del arilo, acidez titulable, pH, solidos solubles totales) de la granada asociados con la afección por AB. Se evaluaron los atributos de calidad fisicoquímica y el índice visual de incidencia AB (1= no daños a 5=daños severos) en el interior de la fruta de granada en 80 accesiones de granada (30 frutos por genotipo) en el momento de la recolección. Alrededor del 36,2 % de los genotipos estudiados mostraron resistencia al trastorno AB, mientras que el resto (63,8 %) mostró una susceptibilidad a la incidencia de moderada a severa tras 4 semanas de almacenamiento a 5ºC. La intensidad de los síntomas aumentó en la fruta con orientación sur y oeste y se redujo en la parte interna del árbol. De los genotipos de granada y los atributos fisicoquímicos de la fruta se encontró una correlación negativa entre la intensidad del trastorno AB y la acidez titulable (TA) y el contenido de sólidos solubles totales (SST) del zumo, resaltando la importancia del genotipo y del estrés abiótico en este desorden

Abscission zone metabolism impacts pre- and postharvest fruit quality: a very attaching story

The function of abscission zones (AZs) determines the timing of fleshy fruit abscission, with important consequences not only for the optimal fruit harvest, but also on the overall final fruit quality. In this context, chemical treatments are commonly used at different stages of fruit development to control fruit abscission, which can also have positive or negative effects on fruit quality. In the current review, we examine commonly used chemicals that affect the metabolic activity in the AZs of fleshy fruit, in addition to their effects on fruit quality characteristics. The main hormone metabolism and signaling in the AZ include that of ethylene, auxin, abscisic acid and jasmonates, and the molecular components that are involved are covered and discussed, in addition to how these hormones work together to regulate AZ activity and hence, affect fruit quality. We focus on studies that have provided new insight into possible protein complexes that function in the AZ, including multiple MADS-box transcription f

Developing epidemiological preparedness for a plant disease invasion: Modelling citrus huánglóngbìng in the European Union

Societal Impact Statement Huánglóngbìng (HLB) is a bacterial disease of citrus that has significantly impacted Brazil and the United States, although citrus production in the Mediterranean Basin remains unaffected. By developing a mathematical model of spread in Spain, we tested surveillance and control strategies before any future HLB entry in the EU. We found while some citrus production might be maintained by roguing, this requires extensive surveillance and significant chemical control, perhaps also including testing of psyllids (which spread the pathogen) for bacterial DNA. Our work highlights the key importance of early detection (including asymptomatic infection) and vector control for HLB management. Summary • Huánglóngbìng (HLB; citrus greening) is the most damaging disease of citrus worldwide. While citrus production in the United States and Brazil have been affected for decades, HLB has not been reported in the European Union (EU). However, a HLB vector, the African citrus psyllid, is already in Portugal and Spain. In 2023, the major vector, the Asian citrus psyllid, was first reported in Cyprus. • We develop a landscape-scale, epidemiological model, accounting for heterogeneous citrus cultivation and vector dispersal, as well as climate and disease management. We use our model to predict HLB dynamics for an epidemic vectored by the African citrus psyllid in high-density citrus areas in Spain, assessing detection and control strategies. • Without disease management, we predict large areas infected within 10–20 years. Even with significant visual surveillance, any epidemic will be widespread on first detection, making eradication unlikely. Nevertheless, increased inspection and roguing following first detection, particularly if coupled with intensive insecticide use, could sustain some citriculture for a decade or more, albeit with reduced production. However, effective control may require chemical application rates and/or active substances no longer authorised in the EU. Strategies targeting asymptomatic infection will be more successful. Detection of bacteriliferous vectors—sometimes possible long before plants show symptoms—could reduce lags before disease management commences. If detection of HLB-positive vectors were followed by intensive insecticide sprays, this may greatly improve outcomes. • Our work highlights modelling as a key component of developing epidemiological preparedness for a pathogen invasion that is, at least somewhat, predictable in advance

Exploring nutritional quality and bioactive compounds in Mediterranean bean landraces

This study aimed to characterize the nutritional and nutraceutical properties of ten Mediterranean bean landraces compared to a commercial variety (Big Borlotto, Batlle Seeds). Significant genetic diversity was found among the landraces, affecting their nutritional composition, mineral content, and bioactive compounds. Essential minerals such as calcium, iron, and zinc exhibited considerable variability, with landraces 103, 15, 40, and 102 showing higher mineral levels than the control variety. The fatty acid profiles varied, with linolenic acid being predominant, accounting for 39.1–47.3 % of total fat, depending on the genotype. Positive correlations between fatty acids and mineral content suggest complex interdependencies influencing grain quality, with the strongest correlations observed between Mg and linolenic (r = 0.66) or palmitic (r = 0.63) acids. Beans with colored seed coats exhibited higher antioxidant capacity attributed to phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, and ascorbic acid, emphasizing seed coat color as an indicator of nutritional quality. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified five clusters based on physical and nutritional traits, revealing correlations between seed size, color, and quality. These findings highlight the potential of bean landraces to promote local economies and biodiversity

Moisture-dependent pupation of the invasive thrips Chaetanaphothrips orchidii: implications for its management

This file includes the datasets used in the paper “Moisture-dependent pupation of the invasive thrips Chaetanaphothrips orchidii: implications for its management”. We This study aims to describe the pupation of C. orchidii in citrus and evaluate the effect of moisture (relative humidity and soil water content) on its emergence to improve the management of this invasive thrips. To accomplish the first aim, we sampled citrus canopies and soil in three commercial citrus orchards for two consecutive years. For the second aim, we evaluated the effect of the RH on its emergence. With these results, we tested whether its emergence was higher in areas near the drip irrigation emitters during the summer. We evaluated this assumption in two field experiments. Our results provide key information to improve the sustainable management of C. orchidii in the soil, especially in summer. The file includes five tabs, which contain the data used for obtaining the conclusions presented in this paper.This dataset is associated with the published paper “Moisture-dependent pupation of the invasive thrips Chaetanaphothrips orchidii: implications for its management”. We conducted trials in three drip-irrigated orange orchards (2018 and 2019) using dispersal/emergence traps (D/E), and laboratory assays using desiccators, to confirm the pupation of C. orchidii in the soil and demonstrate the relationship between soil water content/humidity and its emergence. The file includes five tabs, which contain the data used for obtaining the conclusions presented in this paper

Huanglongbing (HLB) and its vectors: recent research advances and future challenges

Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease, is one of the most destructive diseases affecting the global citrus industry. It is caused by bacteria of the Candidatus Liberibacter genus, primarily C. L. asiaticus (CLas), C. L. africanus (CLaf), and C. L. americanus (CLam), transmitted by Asian citrus psyllid [Diaphorina citri (vectors CLas)] and African citrus psyllid (Trioza erytreae [CLaf]), which likely can vector all three C.L. species. HLB causes severe symptoms in citrus trees, including leaf mottling, deformed fruits, and tree decline, leading to significant economic losses and tree death in citrus-producing regions across Asia, the Americas, and Africa. Controlling HLB progression remains challenging due to the lack of effective curative treatments and the ongoing global spread of psyllid vectors. This review provides a comprehensive overview of biological and epidemiological aspects of HLB and its vectors, focusing on recent advances in understanding of the biology of the pathogen and vector-host interactions. Additionally, we explore the case of Florida (USA), one of the most adversely affected regions, where HLB has drastically impacted commercial citrus production. The review highlights recent technological and biological advances aimed at mitigating HLB’s impacts and discusses current research focused on enhancing vector control, improving plant resilience, and advancing detection methods. Finally, we address future challenges, including the need for sustainable management strategies, international cooperation, and the integration of new biotechnological tools to manage HLB-causing pathogens and disease progression, all of which are necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the global citrus industr

The rootstock imparts different drought tolerance strategies in long-term field-grown deficit irrigated grapevines

Deficit irrigation was applied to Monastrell grapevines grafted on five different rootstocks (140Ru, 1103P, 41B, 110R and 161-49C) in south-eastern Spain for six years (2012–2017). The rootstocks modified fine root growth and soil respiration in the rhizosphere, soil-plant hydraulics, plant-water relations, leaf gas exchange, hormone signalling and primary and secondary metabolism. 161-49C vines showed a greater growth in fine root length density (RLD) in the rhizosphere (0–40 cm deep) and a higher root-to-shoot ratio compared with 140Ru or 110R. Both 161-49C and 1103P exhibited a tighter control of leaf water loss at low Ψs and high VPD. 161-49C vines had a lower root water uptake and water/nutrient transport capacity and, thus, were more water-stressed, water stress adaptation being related to higher hormone signalling aboveground (e.g., abscisic acid, ABA), greater activation of secondary metabolism in leaves and berries, and lower vine water use. In contrast, high-vigour/ productive 140Ru had a lower RLD, but significantly higher soil respiration and [ABA]root.Vines grafted on 140Ru also showed greater root water uptake and increased whole-plant hydraulic conductance compared with the other rootstocks. This enhanced vine water status, leaf gas exchange, vegetative development, yield, and vine water use. The 140Ru rootstock conferred a greater leaf photosynthetic capacity, related to higher leaf N and chlorophyll contents, as well as a longer duration of leaf greenness. Thus, a rootstock conferring high vigor, such as 140Ru (and also 110R) with an effective root/water transport system, capable of maintaining high water uptake capacity and carbon gain would result in a more effective use of water under prolonged moderate/severe RDI. In contrast, 161-49C and 1103P were the most yield-sensitive and reactive rootstocks regarding water stress and high VPD, and are more suitable for less restrictive RDI strategies in these semiarid conditions

Plant growth-promoting microorganisms as natural stimulators of nitrogen uptake in citrus

Improving nitrogen uptake efficiency by citrus in Mediterranean areas, where this crop predominates, is crucial for reducing ground-water pollution and enhancing environmental sustainability. This aligns with the Farm to Fork Strategy (European Green Deal) objectives, which aim to reduce the use of mineral fertilizers by up to 20% and to eliminate soil contamination from nitrogen entirely. In this context, exploring the potential of plant growth-promoting bacteria application to reduce nutrient inputs is a promising opportunity. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of two Bacillus subtilis strains either individually inoculated or in combination with Saccharomyces cerevisiae on 15N-labeled fertilizer uptake efficiency and physiological parameters. Individual inoculations positively affected tree water potential, leaf chlorophyll concentrations (SPAD-values) and photosynthetic performance, enhancing tree growth. Fertilizer-15N use efficiency increased, as did phosphorus and potassium uptakes. Conversely, no response was observed in the trees co-inoculated with S cerevisiae. Therefore, PGPB can be considered an interesting means to reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers in citrus orchards, minimizing the environmental impact and promoting sustainable production practices