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Impact of organic fertilizer in different sowing dates on growth, yield and and hormonal containts of cabbage Brassica oleracea var capitate
A study included 12 treatments that was carried out outside the University of Mosul's College of Agriculture and Forestry; both are located in Mosul in the Republic of Iraq using a Factorial Experiment. Within. Split-Plot design within the context of a Randomized. Complete. Block. Design. (RCBD). The study included the effects of three factors: two sowing dates (27/8/2025 and 27/9/2025), two methods of application (adding to soil and foliar spraying) and three concentrations of the liquid organic fertilizer TECAMIN MAX (0, 2.5, and 5 ml/l). Each treatment was repeated three times in Copenhagen cabbage plants cultivar. The results of the statistical analysis utilizing the Duncan's multiple-range test with a significance level of 5% showed the following: Plants sowing in the first date significantly outperformed compared to plants sowing in the second date in relation to the height of the plant, the number of rolled leaves, the marketable head weight rate, and the marketable yield per unit area. When compared to the spraying approach, the addition to the soil method resulted in a considerable increase in the marketable of head weight as well as the marketable yield per unit area. Plants that were given either dosage of organic fertilizer had a substantial effect on all of the characteristics that were investigated, with the exception of the 2.5 ml dose. Leaves content of growth hormones GA3 and IAA increased significantly when plants were grown on the first date compared to plants grown on the second date. The use of both concentrations of 2.5 and 5 ml per liter of organic fertilizer TECAMIN TEXT resulted in a significant increase of these two hormones in the leaves compared to the control treatment.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ahmed Jumaah Taha , Ahmed Alsawaf, Fathel F. R. Ibraheem , Ali Mohammed Saadi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Susceptibility assessment and induced systemic resistance in cucumber genotypes to Fusarium Wilt
This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of the bio-fungus Trichoderma viride and the fungicide Hymexazol in inducing systemic resistance (ISR) against Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum (F.o.c) in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Two genotypes were evaluated: a susceptible local cultivar and a partially resistant genotype imported from Monsanto Holland B.V. (Seminis). Plants were treated with the inducers, and the expression levels of key defense-related genes were assessed at 24, 48, and 96 hours post-inoculation (hpi) using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The results revealed that both T. viride and Hymexazol significantly enhanced the expression of Chi2 and PR-1 genes in both genotypes compared to untreated controls. The highest gene expression levels were generally observed at early point, indicating rapid activation of plant defense responses. In contrast, the untreated resistant genotype showed only moderate induction of defense-related genes, while the untreated susceptible genotype exhibited minimal or no significant response, highlighting inherent genetic differences in disease resistance. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of biological and chemical inducers in activating plant defense mechanisms and enhancing ISR. The study provides important insights into the molecular basis of induced resistance and suggests that integrating bio-fungicides with conventional fungicides can be an effective and sustainable strategy for managing Fusarium wilt in cucumber cultivation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mays Muhsin Almagsosi, Jawadayn Alkooranee http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Physiological and molecular responses of broccoli to Trichoderma viride and fertilization
This study investigated the physiological and molecular responses of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) to the application of the biocontrol fungus Trichoderma viride in combination with nitrogen fertilizer as a chemical fertilizer and Vit-Org VG as an organic fertilizer. The aim was to evaluate the integrative effects of these treatments on plant growth, physiological performance, and gene expression related to growth and metabolic activity. A controlled experimental design was used with treatments including sole and combined applications of T. viride, nitrogen fertilizer, and Vit-Org VG. Results indicated that the combined treatments significantly enhanced vegetative growth parameters, including plant height, leaf area, and biomass accumulation, compared with individual applications and control. Physiological analysis revealed improvements in chlorophyll content, photosynthetic efficiency, and nutrient uptake efficiency under integrated treatments. Molecular analysis using qRT-PCR demonstrated distinct temporal expression patterns of growth-related genes. MDH exhibited a rapid upregulation at 1 dpt followed by a decline, indicating early metabolic activation, whereas BoTLP1 showed a progressive and sustained increase, reaching higher expression levels at later stages. Importantly, the combined treatment induced the highest expression levels of both genes across all time points, suggesting a strong synergistic regulatory effect on gene activity. Overall, the most pronounced improvements were observed in the combined treatment of T. viride with nitrogen fertilizer and Vit-Org VG, highlighting synergistic interactions that enhance both physiological performance and molecular regulation. These findings demonstrate the potential of integrating beneficial microbes with specific fertilization strategies to improve broccoli productivity in a sustainable manner.
Copyright (c) 2026 Um Al-Baneen Kamil , Noor Al-Huda Al-Silmawy, Jawadayn Alkooranee http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Evaluation of the role of vermicompost, biofertilizer, and phosphorus fertilizer in enhancing the sustainability of growth indicators of potato and improving soil fertility
A field experiment was conducted in one of the fields of Babylon Province during the 2024–2025 season to cultivate potato crop (cv. Bureish) in a silty loam soil, with the aim of evaluating the role of biofertilizer, vermicompost, and phosphorus fertilizer in enhancing the sustainability of potato growth indicators. The experiment included three factors: the first factor was the addition of vermicompost at three levels (0, 10, and 20 Mg ha⁻¹), denoted as V0, V1, and V2, respectively. The second factor was the addition of biofertilizer (Biohealth) at three levels (0, 4, and 8 kg ha⁻¹), while the third factor was phosphorus fertilizer at two levels only 50 kg ha⁻¹, representing half the recommended dose, and 100 kg ha⁻¹, representing the full recommended dose), denoted as P1 and P2, respectively. Thus, the total number of experimental units was 54. Before maturity, plant height, number of stems per plant, leaf area, chlorophyll index (SPAD) units, and dry weight of the shoot system were measured. Results showed that the highest values of these indicators were obtained from the high level of vermicompost treatment (V2), which recorded 51.35 cm, 2.59 stems/plant, 4871 cm²/plant, 54.99 SPAD units, and 5.55 Mg, respectively. Similarly, the biofertilizer treatment B2 gave values of 51.50 cm, 2.37 stems/plant, 4522 cm²/plant, 53 SPAD units, and 5.2 Mg, respectively.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rusul Khudhair Obayes, Mohammed Sallal Oleiwi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Enhancement of bioactive compound production in convolvulus arvensis callus cultures using elicitors
Callus cultures offer a reproducible technique for increasing the production of secondary metabolites (SMs) in medicinal plants. Convolvulus arvensis as well as other wild plants are great source of bioactive compounds, but their production is inconsistent and insufficient. A potential approach to overcome this limitation and enhance specific phytochemicals is through elicitation in-vitro. This study aimed to investigate the impact of phenylalanine and salicylic acid (SA) as elicitors in production of bioactive compounds in C. arvensis callus cultures. Leaf explants of C. arvensis were cultured on MS (Murashige and Skoog) medium fortified with 0.3 mg/L Benzyl adenine (BA) and 2.5 mg/L 2,4-D to induct callus. The calli were then treated with different concentrations of 15 mg/L, 30 mg/L, 45 mg/L and 60 mg/L phenylalanine and 30 mg/L, 60 mg/L, 90 mg/L and 120 mg/L salicylic acid, separately. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) data interpretation indicated that the untreated calli produce phenolic substances like chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, rutin, quercetin and kaempferol, as well as alkaloids such as convolvine, convolamine, and wiansonine. The elicitors treatment significantly increased the secondary metabolites accumulation in the calli, 60 mg/L phenylalanine and 120 mg/L SA, accordantly showed the height level of secondary metabolite production. The findings of this research indicate the targeted elicitations with bioactive compounds can significantly increase the secondary metabolite production in C. arvensis callus, offering a potential strategy for enhance secondary metabolites in medicinal plants.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shaimaa N. Mizil, Hashim K.Mohammed Al-Oubaidi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Investigation the effect of using ZnO and Ag Nanoparticles and Nisin on the Microbial Contamination of yogurt
The purpose of the study was to assess how the microbiological load of yogurt kept for 20 days at 5 ± 2 °C was affected by silver AgNPs and zinc ZnNPs nanoparticles placed onto edible gelatin shells at concentrations of 20 and 30%, either by themselves or in conjunction with nisin at a concentration of 50%. The result of this study indicated that the total bacterial counts at the beginning of storage ranged between 12.00 and 16.33 Log/g for all treatments, compared to the treatments for control T1 and T2, which were 24.66 and 22.66 Log/g respectively. With continued storage and up to a storage period of 20 days, treatment T11 was the best in terms of total number, which recorded 15.33 Log\g compared to the increase achieved by the control treatments T1 and T2, which reached 34.33 and 26.00 Log\g, respectively. The results also showed that no growth of yeasts and molds was observed on the first day of storage for all treatments. With continued storage until the 20th day, the best treatment was T11, in which no growth was observed at the end of the storage period. It was followed by treatment T7, which recorded 0.33 Log\g. compared to the control treatments T1 and T2 , which recorded 3.33 and 2.00 Log\g. respectively. As for the lipolytic bacteria, they also had no growth at First day. On the 10th day of storage, treatment T7 was the best and had the lowest growth in this type of bacteria, reaching 0. 33 Log\g. At the end of the storage period, at the 20th day, treatment T11 was the lowest in terms of lipolytic bacteria, reaching 1.66 Log\g compared to T1 and T2, the control treatments, which recorded 12.33 and 9.33 Log\g. The rest of the treatments ranged between these values. We also note from the results that Proteolytic bacteria had no growth at First day, but at time 10 days, treatments T7 and T11 were the best due to the continued absence of any growth of proteolytic bacteria, while the control treatments T1 and T2 recorded values ​​of 2.00 and 1.66 Log\g. At the end of the storage period at time 20 days, we also note that treatment T11 is the best, as it recorded a value of 1.00 Log\g. compared to the control treatments T1 and T2, whose values ​​were 4.66 and 2.66 Log\g. respectively, while the values ​​of the rest of the treatments ranged between those values
Copyright (c) 2026 Afkar Y. Ahmed, Ahmed Ibrahim Salih, Nehan Bahaaldden Jafar, Ali Mohammed Saadi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effect of biological factors on some growth characteristics of the Crocus sativus L. plant
Crocus sativus L. is an autumn-flowering species belonging to the Iridaceae family. This study was conducted under greenhouse conditions at the Plant Production Technology Department, Agricultural Technical College, Northern Technical University, to evaluate the effects of the environmentally friendly biological agents Trichoderma harzianum T-22 and Bacillus subtilis on vegetative growth, flowering, stigma production, enzymatic activity, and corm yield of saffron using two application methods. Significant differences were observed between biological treatments and the untreated control. Corm immersion with T. harzianum T-22 promoted the earliest vegetative bud emergence (17.56 days). The same fungal treatment also produced the tallest plants, reaching 8.75 and 7.40 cm depending on the application method, whereas untreated plants reached only 3.42 cm. Both fungal and bacterial treatments significantly reduced the time required for flower bud emergence, with T-22 showing the shortest periods (89.77 and 89.81 days). Corm immersion with fungal and bacterial agents also shortened the time to first flower opening to 125.6 and 126.1 days, respectively. Fresh and dry stigma weights were significantly higher in biologically treated plants than in the control, which recorded only 0.021 and 0.002 g, respectively. Peroxidase activity in saffron leaves was highest in plants treated with T-22, reaching 0.096 unit min-¹ g-¹ fresh weight. Biological treatments also significantly increased corm number, corm fresh weight, cormlet number, and cormlet fresh weight compared with the control. Overall, T. harzianum T-22 and B. subtilis improved saffron growth, flowering, physiological activity, and yield under greenhouse conditions. The results of the statistical analysis of vegetative growth characteristics, represented by the number of days for vegetative bud emergence, showed significant differences between the biological treatments and the control treatment. The best result was obtained with the fungal biological treatment (T-22) by immersing the corms for 17.56 days. As for the height of saffron plants, the tallest plants were those treated with the fungal biological agent (T-22) at rates of 8.75 cm and 7.40 cm, respectively, using both methods of application, while the shortest were the plants not treated with biological agents, at 3.42 cm. The results of the floral growth characteristics showed the significant superiority of the fungal and bacterial biological agents in both methods of use in terms of the number of days required for the emergence of the flower bud, with the best results achieved by the fungal biological agent (T-22), which required the lowest number of days for emergence, at 89.77 and 89.81 days, respectively. A significant superiority was also observed in the number of days required for the first flower to open when treated with fungal and bacterial biological agents by immersing saffron corms at rates of 125.6 and 126.1 days, respectively. They differed significantly from the other treatments studied in the experiment. In terms of fresh and dry stigma weight, fungal and bacterial biological agents showed a significant advantage over the Comparison treatment, which resulted in lower weights (0.021 and 0.002 g, respectively).At the same time, the results of the peroxidase enzyme assessment in saffron leaves, which plays an important role in the oxidation of phenolic substances to protect plants from infection, showed significant differences between the biological agents, the highest being with the fungal biological agent (T-22) at 0.096 unit/minute/gram fresh weight. This was significantly different from the other treatments. The results of the statistical analysis of the corms and creams yield of saffron plants showed a significant superiority of biological fertilizers in terms of corms number, wet weight, creams number, and wet weight compared to the control treatment.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sheren Ghazi Mahmood, Khawlla Mahmood Yahia, Huda Hazim Wafy, Alaa Younis Dhannoon, Noor Fatek Mohammed, Zahraa Abdul Rahman Sabri, Ali Mohammed Saadi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Ecological desalination of anchovy bones using lime and activated carbon made from argan shells: sustainable use of waste for poultry feed in Morocco
This study aims to develop an environmentally friendly process for desalinating salted anchovy bones (Engraulis encrasicolus) through the combined use of activated carbon from argan tree shells (Argania spinosa) and quicklime (CaO), with a view to sustainable recovery for poultry feed. The bones, which are rich in protein and minerals but highly salty, were successively treated with water, activated carbon (0.25–0.5 g/5 g of bones), and then quicklime (0.5–1.5 g/5 g of bones). Physicochemical analyses revealed a significant reduction in salt content, from 15.4% to less than 0.6%, accompanied by a marked increase in calcium (up to 10.74%) and magnesium (1.32%), while maintaining stable levels of crude protein (≈29%) and fat (≈5.7%). The fish bone meal obtained in this way was incorporated at a rate of 3% into feed formulations for broiler chickens (Gallus gallus) during the starter and grower phases, using ALLIX³ software. Zootechnical trials showed no negative effects on live weight, feed intake, or feed conversion ratio compared to the control group, confirming the equivalent nutritional value of the experimental diets. This integrated approach simultaneously valorizes fishery and agricultural co-products, contributing to the implementation of a circular economy model and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 12 and 14).
Copyright (c) 2026 Ilham Boumendil, Yassine Taaifi, Rajaa Tesse, Fatima-zahra Yassif, Nadia Boutaleb, Amal Safi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Molecular characterization of some olive cultivars found in Fadak farms in Karbala By Using Internal Transcribed Space (ITS1)
The identification and organization of olive (Olea europaea L.) cultivars are crucial for improving olive production, protecting genetic diversity, and ensuring the authenticity of local varieties. This study aims to describe the genetic diversity of cultivars grown in Karbala Governorate, Iraq, using the internal transcribed spacer region of the nuclear ribosomal DNA. Fifteen leaf samples were collected from Fadak farm, and total genomic DNA was extracted. PCR amplification of the ITS1 region was accomplished using specific primers, and the products were sent for sequencing. The resulting sequences will be aligned and compared with those deposited in GenBank to determine the degree of similarity and to construct a phylogenetic tree, thereby enabling cultivar identification and assessment of genetic variation. Results showed that of ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 sequences from five Olea europaea samples collected in Iraq revealed varying degrees of genetic similarity with known cultivars. Four samples showed high sequence similarity (above 96%) to established cultivars such as Olive yellow, Picual-Bakraju-Sulaymani, and Qaysi-Alqush-Musil, indicating close genetic relationships and potential affiliation to these cultivars or their local variants. One sample exhibited a lower similarity (92.3%) with Khoderi-Bakraju-Sulaymaniya, suggesting it may represent a distinct local isolate or a unique genetic lineage within Iraqi olive diversity. These findings highlight significant genetic variation among Iraqi olive populations and emphasize the importance of further morphological and agronomic characterization to clarify their taxonomic status.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ghufran Hassan, Zeina Thamer A. Al Rufaye, Ayser Ashour Khalaf http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Molecular characterization of the Olea europaea L. by using matK sequences in Iraq
Copyright (c) 2026 Ziena Thamer A. Al Rufaye, Hassan Jameel Jawad, Doaa Ali Baaiwi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effect of organic fulvic acid application on the growth and yield performance of four melon (Cucumis melo L.) cultivars toward sustainable agricultural production
The field experiment was conducted at the Experimental Farm of the Department of Plant Production, Northern Technical University, during the spring growing season of 2025. The study aimed to investigate the effects of organic fulvic acid application on the growth and yield performance of four melon (Cucumis melo L.) cultivars in order to promote sustainable agricultural production and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers. The experiment included two factors: the first was four melon cultivars—‘Polydor’, ‘Athena’, ‘Galia’, and the local cultivar ‘Malouki’; the second factor was two concentrations of fulvic acid (0 and 6 mL. L⁻¹). The treatments were applied twice: the first after the appearance of the fourth true leaf and the second after 15 days. The study was carried out in the field using the split Plot Design splinter cutting system by designing complete random sectors R.C.B.D with three duplicates, where the items were placed in the main plots main plots, and the secondary plots sup Plots included a random distribution of fulvic acid concentrations and after recording the data were statistically analyzed using the SAS statistical analysis program . All results were statistically tested according to the Duncan polynomial Test at a probability level of 5 % . The results of the statistical analysis, the results of which are contained in the tables of the analysis of variation, indicate that the plants of the variety Galya are significantly superior in the characteristics of the quotient (diameter of the fruit, the number of fruits per plant, the average weight of the fruit, the quotient of one plant and the total yield) compared to the plants of other varieties .While the plants treated with fulvic acid showed a moral superiority in the qualities of the quantitative quotient, the moral effect varied depending on the concentration used, as the spraying treatment with Fulvic exceeded the concentration of (6 ml. L-1 ) Morally in comparison with the comparative treatment. As for the best interference treatment between the studied factors in the characteristics of the quotient was obtained in the interference treatment between the variety Galea and Fulvic spraying at a concentration of (6 ml L-1). The results suggest that organic fulvic acid may act as an environmentally friendly growth catalyst for sustainable melon production, which may reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and support environmentally sound agricultural practices. The experiment included two factors: the first was four melon cultivars—‘Polydor’, ‘Athena’, ‘Galia’, and the local cultivar ‘Malouki’; the second factor was two concentrations of fulvic acid (0 and 6 mL. L⁻¹). The treatments were applied twice: the first after the appearance of the fourth true leaf and the second after 15 days. The study was carried out in the field using the split Plot Design splinter cutting system by designing complete random sectors R.C.B.D with three duplicates, where the items were placed in the main plots main plots, and the secondary plots sup Plots included a random distribution of fulvic acid concentrations and after recording the data were statistically analyzed using the SAS statistical analysis program . All results were statistically tested according to the Duncan polynomial Test at a probability level of 5 % . The results of the statistical analysis, the results of which are contained in the tables of the analysis of variation, indicate that the plants of the variety Galya are significantly superior in the characteristics of the quotient (diameter of the fruit, the number of fruits per plant, the average weight of the fruit, the quotient of one plant and the total yield) compared to the plants of other varieties .While the plants treated with fulvic acid showed a moral superiority in the qualities of the quantitative quotient, the moral effect varied depending on the concentration used, as the spraying treatment with Fulvic exceeded the concentration of (6 ml. L-1 ) Morally in comparison with the comparative treatment. As for the best interference treatment between the studied factors in the characteristics of the quotient was obtained in the interference treatment between the variety Galea and Fulvic spraying at a concentration of (6 ml. L-1) . The results suggest that organic fulvic acid may act as an environmentally friendly growth catalyst for sustainable melon production, which may reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and support environmentally sound agricultural practices.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ahmed Alsawaf , Omar Ahmed Fathi Al-Rubaie, Ghadeer Mukhles Mawlood , Fathel F. R. Ibraheem, Ali Mohammed Saadi, Mohammed R. Najm http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The effect of a fertilizer derived from plant seed extracts on tomato plants in Diyala Governorate with nanometric zinc oxide (ZnO)
Biochar is a compound that was extracted from orang seeds with good purity using a combustion process, where the entire seed was burnt at a high temperature, then crushed and turned into powder. Infrared, ultraviolet, and GC-MS analyses were performed on it. along with other physical properties such as color and solubility. Additionally, nanosized zinc oxide was prepared beforehand. A study was conducted on it at the nursery of the College of Education for Pure Sciences/University of Diyala, from 20/2/2025 to 25/4/2025, to examine the effect of fertilization with biochar on some growth characteristics of tomato plants. The results indicated that fertilization with 150 mg/L of nanosized zinc oxide yielded the highest averages in all traits, including plant height, fresh weight, dry weight, and leaf chlorophyll content, which were 26.2 cm, 10.867 g, 6.600 g, and 76.733 SPAD units, respectively.
Copyright (c) 2026 Noor Ali Hasan http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Dominance and complexity of Begomovirus Species infection on eggplant in lowlands and highlands
Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is an important Indonesian crop increasingly threatened by begomoviruses that reduce yield and quality. Transmitted persistently by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci, these viruses are genetically diverse and often occur in mixed infections, intensifying disease severity and complicating control. This study aimed to identify begomovirus species infecting eggplant, determine their geographic distribution and dominance, and characterize the associated B. tabaci biotypes across major eggplant-producing regions of Java, Indonesia. Field surveys were conducted in five provinces—Banten, West Java, Central Java, Yogyakarta, and East Java—covering 30 lowland and 15 highland sites. From each site, 20 symptomatic plants were collected for molecular analysis, while disease incidence (DI) and severity (DS) were assessed from 200 plants. Across 45 sites, mean DI and DS reached 54.0% and 32.7% in lowlands and 34.8% and 26.8% in highlands, respectively. PCR amplification and sequencing confirmed three begomovirus species: Tomato yellow leaf curl Kanchanaburi virus (TYLCKaV), Pepper yellow leaf curl Indonesia virus (PepYLCIV), and Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV). TYLCKaV was the most prevalent, occurring alone or in combination with PepYLCIV, particularly in lowlands, while ToLCNDV occurred at low frequencies, mainly in mixed infections. Four B. tabaci biotypes (A, B, Q, and AN) were detected, with biotype A dominating in lowlands and Q prevailing in highlands. This study provides the first island-wide molecular mapping of begomovirus species and B. tabaci biotypes infecting eggplant in Indonesia and elucidates the complex virus–vector interactions that shape eggplant disease epidemiology in tropical Asia.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ratih Wahyuni, Rudi Hari, Sedyo Hartono, Tri Rini Nuringtyas , Arman wijanarko, Mulyantoro, Hartinio Natalia Nahampun , Ahmad Afifuddin, Shinta Tiara Sari http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Synergistic use of saline water and poultry manure for sustainable potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production under calcareous soil conditions
This study investigates a sustainable agricultural approach to address water scarcity and soil salinity while enhancing crop productivity. A field experiment was conducted during the 2024 fall season to evaluate the combined effects of saline irrigation water and organic fertilizers on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivation in calcareous soils. The experimental design employed a split-plot arrangement with three replications, comparing two water quality treatments (fresh vs saline) and multiple organic fertilizer applications (poultry and cow manure at 0%, 2%, and 4% concentrations). Results demonstrated that saline water irrigation, when combined with 4% poultry manure, significantly enhanced potato growth and yield parameters. This synergistic treatment produced the highest values in key metrics: 17.6 secondary branches per plant, 2024.3 cm² leaf area, 63.1 cm plant height, and 808.67 g yield per plant. Furthermore, tuber dry matter content increased significantly under this treatment regime. The findings suggest that strategic integration of saline water resources with appropriate organic amendments can effectively mitigate salinity stress while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This approach offers viable solutions for regions facing water scarcity and soil degradation, contributing to sustainable food production systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammed Salim Ahmed, Omar Younis Hasan , Ahmed Alsawaf , Omar Ahmed Fathi Al-Rubaie , Ali Saadi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The effect of three types of organic fertilizer on some yield characteristics of two varieties of cucumber plants.
The experiment was conducted at the research station of Horticulture and Landscape Department, College of Agriculture, Tikrit University, during the season 2024, to study the effect of three types of organic fertilizers (cow manure, sheep manure, and poultry manure) on two cultivars of cucumber plants. The experiment was implemented according to a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in a Split-Plot design, fertilization was in the main plots and cultivars in the sub-plots. The results were as follows: Fertilization with caw manure outperformed in the trait fruit number was gave 1.15 fruits plant-1. As for the characteristics of plant yield, experimental unit yield, and total yield, fertilization with sheep manure was superior, recording values of (1.38 kg plant⁻¹, 6.92 kg, and 57,639 tons ha⁻¹), respectively. Regarding the effect of cultivars, V2 outperformed V1 in the fruit length trait, which gave 32.67 cm plant-1. The interaction effect was superior between sheep manure and V2 compare with some of the other treatment in terms of fruit length, plant yield, experimental unit yield, and total yield.
Copyright (c) 2026 Azhar Rumid Hazaa, Abrar Akeel Naser http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Integrated optimization of poultry waste conversion into biofertilizer and biogas for sustainable tomato cultivation
Sustainable tomato production increasingly requires efficient and environmentally responsible fertilization strategies. In this context, poultry waste valorisation through anaerobic digestion (AD) offers a promising route to produce nutrient-rich biofertilizers while generating renewable energy. The present study investigated the combined effects of key AD factors on both biogas yield and digestate quality intended for horticultural use. Four factors were examined using a 2⁴ factorial design: temperature, moisture, molasses addition, and Aspergillus niger inoculation, resulting in sixteen combinations. The mixtures underwent a 21-day methanization process. Comprehensive physicochemical and nutritional analyses were conducted, followed by a tomato fertilization test to assess agronomic performance. Fungal inoculation exerted the strongest positive effect on process efficiency. Temperature enhanced potassium availability, whereas excessive moisture limited total organic carbon degradation. Mixture M12 produced the highest biogas yield (>17,000 mL) and exhibited balanced nutrient contents (N 1.45%, P 1.98%, K 2.5%). Its digestate improved tomato growth, outperforming the control and approaching the performance of chemical fertilizer. Optimisation of the AD process therefore supports sustainable horticultural production while contributing to waste reduction and renewable energy recovery
Copyright (c) 2026 Tarik Foughal, Khawla Waddi, Meriem Mahmoudi , Fatima Ezzahra Doublali, Mohamed Bennani, Rajaa Tesse, Ghita Radi Benjelloun, Bouchaib Bahlaouan, Nadia Boutaleb http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Model for classifying the maturity of Biloxi blueberries using UVVIS-NIR hyperspectral images and chemometric modeling.
The main characteristic to define quality conditions and marketing destinations for blueberries is their ripeness, which is directly related to the internal conditions of the fruit. This creates the need for a technique that allows for rapid and individual measurement of this product. The objective of this research was to use hyperspectral images to predict the ripeness of Viloxy blueberries using chemometric analysis. For this purpose, an HSI-VNIR system was used, which works by reflectance and consists of a hyperspectral camera with a range of 400-1100 nm. Nine prediction models based on machine learning systems were developed, with the SVM model showing the best average performance, reaching an accuracy of 0.97 and an F1_macro ≈ 0.97, followed by XGBoost (accuracy ≈ 0.96, F1_macro ≈ 0.96) and Random Forest (accuracy ≈ 0.95, F1_macro ≈ 0.95). These values demonstrate that the non-destructive technique of hyperspectral imaging can be implemented for the classification and prediction of the ripeness of blueberries, thereby generating a useful tool for deciding on the marketing destinations of these fruits.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jimy Oblitas, Edin Alva-Plasencia, Andre Rodríguez, Isabel del Rocío Pantoja Alcántara http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Evaluating the antioxidant activity of aqueous extract of date pits in improving the chemical stability of freeze-storied beef
Meat derived from older cows represents an economically important protein source; however, its reduced consumer acceptance is largely attributed to increased connective tissue cross-linking and heightened susceptibility to oxidative deterioration during storage. This study investigated the efficacy of aqueous date seed extract (from Phoenix dactylifera L.) as a natural antioxidant in improving the oxidative stability of aged beef stored at −18°C for 90 days. Four treatments were evaluated (0, 5, 10, and 15% extract; CRD design), and lipid and protein oxidation markers were quantified. Frozen storage significantly increased oxidative indices in all samples (P ≤ 0.05). After 90 days, control samples exhibited the highest lipid oxidation, with FFA reaching 0.75% and TBA values 5.55 mg MDA/kg. In contrast, the 10% extract treatment reduced FFA to 0.50% (≈33% reduction), while the 15% treatment lowered TBA to 5.03 mg MDA/kg. Peroxide values decreased from 8.75 mEq/kg fat (control) to 7.62 mEq/kg in the 10% treatment. Protein oxidation followed a similar pattern; carbonyl content declined from 2.12 to 1.92 nmol/mg protein, whereas thiol concentration was preserved at 59.80 µmol/g protein in the 15% treatment compared to 52.42 µmol/g in controls. The observed protective effect is attributed to phenolic-mediated radical scavenging and potential metal-chelating activity of date seed bioactives, limiting both primary and secondary oxidation products. Collectively, supplementation with 10–15% aqueous date seed extract demonstrates significant potential as a clean-label antioxidant strategy to enhance oxidative stability and extend the storage life of frozen aged beef.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammad Ali Al-Samarrai, Ahmed Ramadhan Muhaimeed http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Floristic diversity of vascular epiphytes occurring at the Federal Rural University of the Amazon, Belém – PA
Vascular epiphytes are an important component of tropical forest biodiversity and play essential ecological roles. This study aimed to characterize the floristic diversity and distribution patterns of vascular epiphytes at the Federal Rural University of the Amazon (UFRA), Belém–PA campus. Eleven plots of 200 × 10 m were sampled along 2.2 km, considering two vertical strata: tree trunks and canopies. A total of 17 species were identified, distributed among four families, with Orchidaceae and Bromeliaceae being the most representative. Tillandsia bulbosa and Aechmea sp. showed the highest abundance and broad vertical distribution. Most species were predominantly found in the canopy and all displayed aggregated distribution patterns, as indicated by the Morisita Index (Id > 1). The Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H' = 0.83) and Pielou’s evenness index (J = 0.29) were considered low, suggesting dominance by a few species and the influence of microclimatic constraints. It is concluded that vertical structure and environmental heterogeneity significantly affect the composition and abundance of epiphytes, and that urban forest fragments such as UFRA's campus can serve as important areas for conservation and epiphytic flora research.
Maria Carolina Sarto Fernandes Rodrigues
Copyright (c) 2026 Bruno Maia, Leidiane Cristina Araújo da Silva, Luan Gabriel Belém dos Santos, Luiz Eduardo Freitas da Silva Junior , André Matheus Lima da Silva , Matheus Gustavo dos Santos Canuto, Kalwan Maciel Martins de Jesus, Thaysa Helena Alves Farias, Frank de Souza Oliveira, Karla Wanessa Praia e Silva http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Comparison of quantitative carotenoid analysis using UV-Vis spectrophotometry and high-performance liquid chromatography
The quantification of β-carotene in agricultural by-products is crucial for their valorization. However, commonly used analytical methods, such as UV–Vis spectrophotometry and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), present critical differences in specificity and cost. This study compared β-carotene quantification using both methods, employing ethanol and hexane as extraction solvents, to determine β-carotene in peels from four mango varieties (Kent, Edward, Haden, and Criollo), following a 2×2×4 factorial design. Proximate analysis revealed significant differences in composition among the varieties. The results demonstrated a significant effect of the triple interaction (method × solvent × variety), indicating that all factors must be considered when selecting a β-carotene quantification protocol. Spectrophotometry systematically overestimated β-carotene content (up to 60% higher with ethanol) due to interference from other pigments. In contrast, HPLC provided specific quantification, revealing that hexane was significantly more efficient than ethanol for extraction. The Kent variety showed the highest β-carotene content. It is concluded that the HPLC–hexane combination is the optimal protocol for accurate quantification, whereas spectrophotometry provides only a useful screening estimate that should be interpreted with caution. The use of HPLC is recommended for studies requiring high accuracy, as well as for the validation of rapid methods against this standard for each new matrix.
Copyright (c) 2026 Alfredo Arroyo Sanchez, Noemí León-Roque, Pascual Ancelmo Castillo-Valdiviezo, Thalia Alexandra Rivera-Ashqui, Reynaldo Justino Silva-Paz http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Evaluation of frying conditions and their association with oil absorption among four varieties of potato
The objective of this study was to determine the optimal frying time and temperature to achieve desirable quality attributes in four potato varieties. For this purpose, a 32 factorial design was developed, analyzing color using the CIELAB scale, moisture, fat content, acrylamides, and texture. Process optimization was performed using a desirability function approach. µRaman spectroscopy was used to evaluate the fat content within the potato. The results indicate that each potato variety requires a specific frying process to obtain a desirable product. Furthermore, Raman spectroscopy proved to be a suitable technique for monitoring fat content.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jimy Oblitas, Joel Exebio Lozano http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Molecular Detection of the Mutations in Khoderi Olive cultivar
The characterization of olive cultivars using molecular markers is necessary for genetic diversity conservation, cultivar verifiction, and the identification of locally adapted genotypes. This study searches for genetic variation in the Khoderi olive cultivar from Karbala, Iraq, utilization two genetic molecular regions: the nuclear ribosomal ITS1 spacer and the plastid matK gene. Through DNA was extracted using a modified CTAB protocol, amplified by PCR, and get sequenced utilization Sanger sequencing. Alignment and comparative analysis with reference sequences deposited in Gen-Bank the results revealed 92.3% similarity of the ITS1 sequence with the Khoderi-Bakraju cultivar with serial number (OQ134700.1), indicating genetic affinity but insufficient similarity for confirmed cultivar identity. The matK region showed 96% similarity with an Olea europaea subsp. europaea plastid genome with serial number (MG372119.1), we notice reflecting high conservation of the chloroplast coding sequences. Multiple SNPs and small indels were detected in both regions, representing intraspecific polymorphisms. The combined data suggest that the studied sample belongs to the broader O. europaea gene pool but may represent a distinct local genotype. Further analyses using high-resolution molecular markers (SSR, SNP-based GBS) are recommended to refine cultivar differentiation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ziena Thamer A. Al Rufaye, Ayam Razak Abdal Katham, Hassan Jameel Jawad http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Weed control efficacy and garlic crop selectivity under post-emergence applications of single and combined herbicides
Garlic production is severely constrained by weed interference throughout its growth cycle. Given the scarcity of research on chemical weed control in this vegetable crop, the present study evaluated the efficacy of post-emergence herbicide applications against broadleaf weed species (Raphanus raphanistrum, Coronopus didymus, Stellaria media, and Rumex obtusifolius), as well as their selectivity to garlic plants, by assessing plant height, stand, phytotoxicity, and bulb diameter and yield. The herbicides tested were ioxynil (75 g ha−1), ioxynil + pendimethalin (75 + 1,820 g ha−1), ioxynil + pyroxasulfone (75 + 100 g ha−1), fomesafen (37.5 and 75 g ha−1), S-metolachlor + fomesafen (258.9 + 56.9 g ha−1), and prometryn (250 g ha−1). The experiment was conducted in garlic commercial fields in Curitibanos, Santa Catarina, Brazil, using a randomized block design with nine treatments, including two controls (hand-weeded and non-weeded), and four replications. Fomesafen (37.5 and 75 g ha−1), S-metolachlor + fomesafen, and prometryn exhibited poor weed-control efficacy and low crop selectivity, resulting in high phytotoxicity, reduced bulb diameter, and significant yield losses. In contrast, ioxynil alone and mixed with pendimethalin or pyroxasulfone provided significant control of all target weed species and high selectivity to the garlic crop. These combinations, therefore, are promising and safe alternatives to the single post-emergence application of ioxynil in garlic crops.
Copyright (c) 2026 Veronika Lemos da Silva, Michael Waltrick dos Santos , Ricardo Pazinato , Sabrina Isabel Pires , Antonio Mendes de Oliveira Neto , Naiara Guerra http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0