Emergence and N metabolism of Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC. seedlings in soil contaminated by nickel

Heavy metals such as nickel (Ni) can lead to bioaccumulation, affecting entire ecosystems and posing significant risks to various life forms, including plants. Although Ni is a micronutrient, it can be toxic by impacting enzyme activities and inhibiting seed germination and plant growth. In Brazil, official guidelines stipulate preventive and intervention values for Ni concentrations in soil to mitigate pollution and protect soil and groundwater quality. Soil samples classified as Typic Haplustox were artificially contaminated with NiCl₂ at concentrations of 120 (T120), 240 (T240), and 360 (T360) mg dm-3, alongside a control treatment (T0). Seeds were cultivated under greenhouse conditions, and germination and growth parameters were analyzed after 15 days. Measurements included emergence speed index, germination percentage, root and shoot length, fresh and dry mass, and biochemical analyses of nitrogenous compounds and sugars. This study addresses the effects of toxic concentrations of NiCl2 on plants, focusing on the germination and early growth stages. Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC., a tropical legume with significant roles in green manure and phytoremediation, was chosen for its adaptability to various soils. The hypothesis is that C. ensiformis can withstand high soil Ni concentrations, maintaining growth despite environmental toxicity limits. The results indicated differential impacts of Ni, the emergence percentage decreases at 360 mg dm-3 soil with greater dry mass accumulation at 120 and 240 mg dm-3, highlighting the importance of understanding plant responses to stress from potentially toxic elements for sustainable agricultural practices and environmental management

Syringa josikaea (Oleaceae) biotopes in the Ukrainian Carpathians: Climatic conditions and current dynamics

This study aims to identify the key environmental conditions that support the protection and natural regeneration of Syringa josikaea J. Jacq. ex Rchb., a rare Carpathian endemic species listed in the Red Data Book of Ukraine. A detailed analysis of the climatic characteristics of the species’ habitats within the Ukrainian Carpathians is provided. Understanding the climatic factors influencing this local species is crucial for identifying its most vulnerable habitats and developing effective conservation strategies. This approach aligns with international conservation priorities outlined in red lists and other environmental policy documents. The article synthesizes key physical and geographical data, ecological characteristics, and dominant phytocoenological features of 18 documented S. josikaea habitats in Zakarpattia and Lviv Oblasts (regions) (Ukraine). A climatic classification of the species’ habitats was conducted using data from the CarpatClim climate database. Additionally, a Köppen-Geiger climate type map for the Ukrainian part of the species’ distribution range was developed based on climate indicators derived from 338 selected nodes of the regular CarpatClim grid. The results indicate that the species is predominantly found in areas with a temperate continental climate (Dfb). The study presents and discusses the mean statistical values of 21 climate indicators for the period 1961-2010. A comparative analysis of different climatological periods reveals that among the 338 sites examined, only 159 (47% of the total area) have experienced a climatic shift from colder to warmer conditions over the past half-century

Seasonal changes in the micromorphology, ultrastructure, and histochemistry of Carissa macrocarpa leaves

Carissa macrocarpa (Eckl.) A. DC., is a woody shrub of the family Apocynaceae used in traditional medicine. This study aimed to investigate the seasonal variations in micromorphology, ultrastructure, and histochemistry of C. macrocarpa leaves using light and electron microscopy and histochemical techniques. This novel micromorphological analysis revealed the presence of glandular trichomes consisting of a short stalk and multicellular head, located on the lower surface of the leaf. The leaf was characterized as hypostomatic, containing stomata only on its lower surface. Nonarticulated laticifers were interspersed in the leaf cortex and spongy parenchyma. Transmission electron microscopy of C. macrocarpa leaf sections showed the presence of mitochondria, vesicles, vacuoles, and chloroplasts containing starch grains and plastoglobuli. Histochemical analysis revealed a variety of phytochemicals such as proteins, alkaloids, phenols, resin acids, lipids, polyphenols, mucilage, pectin, lignin, and cutin in C. macrocarpa leaves. The chemical compounds found in the latex of its laticifers likely play a vital role in herbivory prevention. Although leaves can also be used for medicinal purposes due to the presence of many pharmacologically active metabolites, future toxicology studies of C. macrocarpa leaves are recommended to ensure their safety for medicinal use. This study is the first to describe the ultrastructure and histochemistry of C. macrocarpa leaves. Given the knowledge gap regarding this species, the present research provides a foundation for the future harvest and medicinal applications of C. macrocarpa

Begomovirus and DNA satellites diversity in Bemisia tabaci from cotton growing areas of Pakistan

Cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD), a major threat to cotton production in Pakistan and northwestern India, is caused by a complex of begomoviruses transmitted by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci. These begomoviruses are typically associated with Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite (CLCuMuB) and often alphasatellites. Historically, the Burewala strain of Cotton leaf curl Kokhran virus (CLCuKoV-Bur) with the Burewala strain of CLCuMuB (CLCuMuBBur) was the dominant CLCuD strain in Pakistan. This study investigates the diversity and distribution of begomoviruses and their associated satellites in B. tabaci populations across major cotton-growing district of Punjab (including Faisalabad, Burewala, Vehari, and Rahim Yar Khan) and Sindh (Tando Allah Yar, Dadu, Moro, and Sakarand) of Pakistan, providing critical insights into their role in CLCuD epidemiology. The full-length begomoviruses (n = 41), betasatellites (n = 20), and alphasatellites (n = 24) were amplified, cloned and sequenced from B. tabaci (n = 56) collected during 2012-2014. Phylogenetic analyses were performed for isolates classification, and recombination events were investigated using Recombination Detection Program (RDP) and SimPlot. Phylogenetic analyses revealed a complex landscape of viral diversity, with Cotton leaf curl Kokhran virus - Burewala strain (CLCuKoV-Bur) (28/41 isolates, 68%) and its cognate betasatellite, Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite - Burewala strain (CLCuMuBBur) (18/20 isolates, 90%), as the dominant species.  Cotton leaf curl Multan alphasatellite (14/24 isolates, 58%) was the most prevalent satellite. The predominant B. tabaci cryptic species, Asia II 1 (or Asia–Pacific Islands–Australia, (ASIA) putative cryptic species), harbored a greater diversity of viruses and satellites compared to the less prevalent MEAM 1 (or North Africa–Middle East (NAFME) putative cryptic species). Recombination events were observed in 34% of begomovirus isolates and 40% of satellite sequences, underscoring the rapid evolutionary adaptation of these pathogens. The predominant B. tabaci cryptic species, Asia II 1 (or Asia–Pacific Islands–Australia, (ASIA) putative cryptic species), harbored a greater diversity of viruses and satellites compared to the less prevalent MEAM 1 (or North Africa–Middle East NAFME putative species). Unlike prior studies, this work is the first to identify full-length genome sequencing of begomoviruses and their associated satellites, isolated directly from B. tabaci populations, with cryptic species identification, providing a comprehensive analysis of virus-vector associations. These findings enhance our understanding of CLCuD’s molecular epidemiology and inform targeted management strategies

Phytochemical profiling and SCOT marker analysis reveal genetic diversity in Ziziphus mauritiana genotypes

This study evaluated genetic diversity among 15 genotypes Ziziphus mauritiana based on biochemical and molecular markers to identify superior germplasm for breeding and nutritional improvement. Results of biochemical profiling revealed substantial variation as TSS ranged from 9.45 to 14.52 °Brix (‘G14’ and ‘G13’) respectively, total sugars were ranged from 7.25 to 10.53 g/100 g (‘G14’ and ‘G3’) correspondingly, moreover, Vitamin C was ranged from 29.47 to 68.53 mg/100 g (‘G12’ and ‘G2’) individually. Furthermore, highest antioxidant activity was recorded in ‘G13’ (39.65%) and peak of total phenolics was recorded in G5 (252.35 mg GAE/100 g). Principal component analysis (PCA) results revealed that genotypes ‘G3’, ‘G5’, ‘G6’, ‘G10’, and ‘G13’ as superior in sweetness, antioxidants, and secondary metabolites. Molecular markers (SCoT marker) analysis developed 112 bands, 67 polymorphic, with SCoT-2 being most informative (78.26% polymorphism, Ne = 1.37, h = 0.22, I = 0.33), reflecting moderate genetic diversity among the Z. mauritiana genotypes. However, Population structure and PCoA analysis revealed that there are two major genetic clusters constructed, with some genotypes showing admixture, indicating shared ancestry or gene flow and may be due to diverse genetic make and crossability among genotypes. The correlation matrix among phytochemical attributes displayed a positive relation between TSS and sugars with antioxidant, however, titratable acidity showed a negative relation with quality traits. Concludingly, current investigation pointed out nutritionally and genetically superior genotypes, providing a valuable resource for breeding, conservation and functional food development which is a useful information for future breeding programs

Direct and indirect blue light supplementation on growth, pigments, and gas exchange of young arugula plants

It is well-established that the blue (430-460 nm) portion of the visible light spectrum beneficially affects plants, primarily by modulating the relationship between photosynthesis and energy metabolism and promoting chlorophyll accumulation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of direct blue light supplementation (via LEDs operating at 450 nm) and indirect blue light supplementation (via reflective materials) on the growth, pigment content, and gas exchange of young arugula (Eruca sativa) plants. Four treatments were tested: control (no supplementation); direct blue light via LED; indirect light via light blue laminate; and indirect light via dark blue laminate. The reflective laminates were placed on the cultivation benches, under the plants. Two hypotheses were tested: 1) The LED, with maximum emission at 450 nm, would have similar performance to the dark blue reflective laminate for plants. 2) The shades of blue in the reflective laminates would influence plant performance. Parameters analyzed included shoot fresh matter, shoot dry matter, contents of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, chlorophyll a/b ratio, carotenoids, total chlorophyll/carotenoid ratio, and gas exchange parameters (internal CO₂ concentration (Ci), net photosynthesis (PN), transpiration (E), stomatal conductance (gs), water use efficiency (PN/E), and instantaneous carboxylation efficiency (PN /Ci)). Results indicated that both blue LED light and dark blue laminate promoted greater accumulation of dry matter and pigments, emerging as the most effective treatments. On the other hand, even though the light blue laminate presented higher light intensity, Chla, Chlb, Total Chl and carotenoids were 19.2%, 18.9%, 19.1%, and 18.89% lower than the control, respectively. For gas exchange, both direct and indirect blue light supplementation led to higher stomatal conductance, transpiration and water use efficiency. However, no statistically significant differences were observed in net A and A/Ci among treatments, suggesting that combinations of light spectra to optimize plant development in controlled environments, maximizing the benefits of blue light for more efficient production

Determination of yield by plant leaf temperature and thermal imaging in banana (Musa spp. AAA) under different cover materials

Global warming, particularly drought and climate change, negatively affects plant production. In crops like bananas, which have high water consumption, it is important to identify drought-resistant varieties. The objective of the study to investigate the effects of two different types of plastic cover material (CM), namely the traditional plastic cover (CM1) and produced with CO-EX technology cover material (CM2), on the yield, and certain quality parameters of two different banana cultivars (‘Grand Nain’ (BC1), ‘Williams’ (BC2)). In addition to the leaf temperature values were obtained by acquiring the thermal images for banana grown under different greenhouse cover materials. Beside the climatic data and thermal imaging, some physical characteristics and yield such as the number of hand, number of finger, finger weight, finger length and yield per ha were examined. The properties of plastic cover materials have significant effects on the average inside temperature and humidity values, and thus on related parameters in banana including number of fingers, finger weight, yield and leaf temperature. The produced with CO-EX technology cover material (CM2) exhibited higher temperature and relative humidity compared to the traditional plastic cover (CM1). The FLIR Tools analysis results of thermal images obtained for banana crops under different greenhouse cover materials, it is evident that warm colors dominate more in the CM2 greenhouse for both banana cultivars. The yield per ha was the highest in CM2BC2 (41.9 ton ha-1) and the lowest in CM1BC2 (37.8 ton ha-1). These findings indicate that optimizing greenhouse cover materials can enhance yield and resilience to abiotic stresses, thereby supporting sustainable banana production under changing climatic condition

The influence of different types of mulch on the yield and content of bioactive compounds of immortelle

Immortelle (Helichrysum italicum) is a perennial Mediterranean plant known for its medicinal and aromatic properties. Various biotic and abiotic factors influence the yield and quality of immortelle. Mulching is a sustainable agricultural practice that conserves soil moisture, prevents weed growth, and regulates soil temperature. The aim of this research was to examine the influence of different types of mulch on the yield and quality of immortelles. The study had three types of mulch (alfalfa, straw, and perennial mulch) and a control (no mulch). The research mulches significantly affected the yield, essential oil (EO) content and content of bioactive compounds. The highest yield of inflorescences was recorded with alfalfa mulch (67.5 g-¹), while the control had the lowest yield (37.3 g-¹). The EO content was highest in treatments with straw and control (0.33 mL 100 g-1), whereas the lowest content was observed with alfalfa mulch (0.28 mL/100 g). The total phenolic content reached its maximum in the control variant (75.1 mg GAE g¹), while perennial mulch resulted in the highest flavonoid content (20.4 mg CAE g-¹). A total of 63 constituents were identified in the EO. The largest share was: neryl acetate, α-curcumen, italidione, α-pinene and D-limonene, and others in smaller quantities

Foliar-applied humic acid modulates antioxidant and mineral profiles in tomato fruit across maturity stages

Berry quality can further be modulated by applying foliar biostimulants to cherry tomatoes depending on their maturity stage. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of foliar application of humic acid (HA) on berry quality at different maturity stages. Humic acid was applied at concentrations of 0, 25, 50, and 75 mg L-¹ during the vegetative, flowering, and fruit-setting phases. Berries were harvested at four distinct maturity stages: mature green (MG), breaker (BK), pink (PK), and red (RD) stages. HA, particularly HA75, significantly enhanced berry quality when harvested at the red stage and exhibited better antioxidant activity due to elevated levels of vitamin C (44.20 mg 100 g-1 FW), lycopene (0.25 mg 100 g-1 FW), and β-carotene (27.58 mg 100 g-1 FW). It also had higher total soluble solids (6.17 °Brix) and pH (4.07) values. The reducing sugar content increased from 0.84% in mature green berries to 1.39% in red berries with the application of HA0 and HA75, respectively. The shelf-life of berries was extended from 13.28 days (HA0) to 15.58 days (HA75) at the green mature stage. Dry matter content peaked at 8.82% in HA75-treated mature green berries, whereas moisture content was highest (94.19%) in untreated (HA0) red berries. Conversely, at the red stage, HA50 and HA75 treatments resulted in the highest redness (a* values of 13.21 and 10.20, respectively), compared to 12.60 for the control (HA0). Lightness (L*) was highest in mature green berries treated with HA50 (61.43), indicating brighter fruit surfaces, whereas red berries showed lower L* values (49.80-52.70), consistent with ripening progression. Mineral uptake also improved, with Mg (2.39%), P (0.71%), and Fe (213.54 ppm) being the highest in HA75-treated red berries. These findings suggest that while humic acid can enhance certain quality traits, the maturity stage remains the dominant factor influencing berry quality traits

Colored benches improved quality of ornamental pepper

Ornamental pepper species belonging to the Solanaceae family and the Capsicum genus have gained commercial visibility and high demand due to their morphological diversity. Growing ornamental plants in protected environments offers considerable advantages, allowing for more precise management of micrometeorological elements. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of colored benches in the biometric aspects, photosynthetic pigments, and gas exchange of the ornamental pyramid pepper. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, covered with low-density polyethylene film and aluminized mesh with 42-50% shading under the film and side screens with 30% shading. The wavelengths were promoted by reflective colored laminates on the growing benches. Five treatments were assessed in a completely randomized design with four replications and five plants per plot, as follows: bright white laminate material, bright yellow laminate material, bright red laminate material, bright dark blue laminate material, and control – with no material on the surface of the growing bench. The colors (white, yellow, and red) increased the supply of photosynthetically active radiation except for blue. The colors increased pepper fruit production, with the white, yellow, red, and blue colors promoting increases of 37.5%, 27.6%, 26.5%, and 42.2%, respectively. The colors influenced and promoted ornamental pepper plants with higher biometric quality than the control, showing the influence of the wavelength in promoting plant quality, both visually and in terms of fruit quantity, essential aspects in the marketing of ornamental plants