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

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

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

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

Introduction pages, NBHA-CN 53(1), 2025

The papers published in Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca, Issue 1, Volume 53, 2025, represent new exciting research in different topics of life science, respectively in plant science, horticulture, agronomy, crop science, and forestry. Among the interesting articles, we invite you to find news about: Resilience of forests in a changing climate: Responses, mechanisms, and adaptations; A panoramic review on phytochemistry, pharmacological potential, health benefits, and versatility of Solanum tuberosum L.; Role of molecular breeding in understanding salinity tolerance in cotton: limitations and perspectives; Evaluation of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis and yield attributing traits of caffeine treated Trigonella corniculata L.; Induction and expression of systemic resistance to downy mildew disease in grapevine by chitosan; Molecular insights of pigeonpea sterility mosaic virus mixed infections and its variability in pigeonpea; Assessing the impact of different water stresses on physio-chemical properties and yield-related traits in tomato genotypes: Insights into stability and response; Biochemical and Raman spectroscopic insights into plant-mold interactions; Assessing genetic diversity and population structure in Tulipa species from Türkiye and Kazakhstan; Elicitation effect of hydrogen peroxide to enhance tolerance of Taxodium distichum (L.) Rich. seedlings irrigated with saline water; Effects of different rootstocks on the growth physiology and enzyme activity of Artemisia selengensis; Comparative analysis of bioactive compounds identified in the fruits of three chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) cultivars in different cultivation systems; The impact of cultivar and production conditions on apple quality; Biochemical attributes Portulaca oleracea as affected by manganese oxide and magnesium oxide nanoparticles; Identification of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in queñua (Polylepis rugulosa) in the forest of southern Peru

Physiological and anatomical adaptations of rice (Oryza sativa L.) grown under drought stress

Drought stress can affect significant productivity and quality attributes in rice. This research assessed the impact of drought stress on the physiological and anatomical adaptations of ‘Tubtim Chumphae’ rice. Seedlings were cultivated for 45 days in soil before being subjected to drought stress. The seedlings were divided into two groups as full water capacity treatment and drought stress treatment for 21 days before rewatering for 10 days. Dehydration from drought stress reduced rice seedling plant height, tiller number, leaf size, and fresh and dry weight while leaf rolling score increased. The recovery process from drought stress impacted the physiological characteristics. Relative water content and chlorophyll fluorescence decreased while green intensity (SPAD value), chlorophyll content, electrolyte leakage percentage, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased. Anatomical studies using free-hand section and peeling techniques revealed that water deficit reduced vascular bundle size, bulliform cell size, stomatal size, and epidermal cell (short cell) size while leaf thickness, cuticle and cell wall thickness and bulliform cell number increased. Our results provide useful information on rice seedling adaptation and response to drought for use in further studies of ‘Tubtim Chumphae’ rice and other cultivars

A panoramic review on phytochemistry, pharmacological potential, health benefits, and versatility of Solanum tuberosum L.

The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) belongs to the family Solanaceae and is one of most versatile crops, vital components of the human diet in numerous countries. It is regarded as one of the most promising crops for reducing world hunger and poverty. It is one of the foremost non-grain crops in the world, being a cost-effective and easily accessible food with several health benefits. The entire plant including peel, tuber, and leaves are used in traditional medicine. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates, lipids, phenolic acids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, proteins, flavonoids, vitamins, potassium, phosphorus, copper, and fiber. The purpose of this review study was to present up-to-date information on novel metabolites discovered in potatoes that play a role in preventing illness and improve human well-being. We attempted to assemble data on the variety of pharmacological activity including antioxidant, anti-diabetic, antihypertensive, anticancer, antiobesity and anti-inflammatory properties of potatoes, as well as their function in enhancing gut health and satiety. In-vitro investigations, human cell culture, experimental animal studies have revealed that potatoes have a variety of health-promoting qualities. The observations and recommendations presented here are scientifically interesting for food chemistry, pharmacology, nanotechnology, and toxicology. These may also contribute to enhance nutrition, food safety, and human health

Characterization of the complete chloroplast genome seedless jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus var. seedless) and its relatives

Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is a perennial fruit tree extensively cultivated in Vietnam, where it plays a crucial role in economic development, especially in rural, disadvantaged regions. Recently, a seedless variety has emerged, attracting significant demand due to its superior fruit quality. Remarkably, the edible portion of this variety can comprise more than 90% of the fruit’s total weight, increasing its market appeal. As a result, the demand for seedlings of this variety has risen sharply. However, current identification methods for distinguishing seedless jackfruit from other varieties primarily rely on morphological traits, which are often ineffective due to high similarity. To overcome this limitation, the present study aimed to sequence and analyze the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of the seedless jackfruit variety. The cp genome was determined to be 160,385 base pairs in length, consisting of 128 genes, including 84 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Comparative analysis revealed differences in simple sequence repeat (SSR) patterns between this seedless variety and other jackfruit cp genomes. These findings underscore the value of chloroplast genome characterization as a tool for the precise identification and classification of this novel seedless jackfruit variety

Induced mutagenesis for the development of high-yielding mutant lines of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) using caffeine and sodium azide

Generating variability is key for enhancing crops in any plant breeding initiative. This study aimed to create mutant lines with improved yield through induced mutation. Linum usitatissimum L. (variety ‘Shekhar’) was subjected to various concentrations of caffeine and sodium azide (0.10, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00%) before being sown to produce the M1 generation. After harvesting and screening the M1 variants, they were planted to cultivate the M2 generation. The M2 mutants undertook a thorough morphological examination for different mutation types and were then planted to develop the M3 generation. Across the three generations, various parameters were analyzed, including quantitative traits (plant height, number of branches), morphological traits (cotyledonary, vegetative leaf, and flower mutants), physiological traits (chlorophyll and carotenoid content), cytological aspects, and yield characteristics. The results indicated that caffeine was more effective than sodium azide in generating beneficial mutants. In the M3 generation, nine high-yielding mutant lines, labelled A, B1, B2, C1, C2, D, E, F1, and F2, were selected based on their morphological and yield-related traits. Also, SEM analysis was conducted on selected high-yielding mutants to examine stomatal variations in their leaves and to assess their seed morphology. These mutant lines have considerable breeding significance and should be advanced to future generations to promote their trait stability, ultimately creating new linseed cultivars with enhanced yield and better adaptability