Agronomía Mesoamericana journal is a continuous publication with an annual open issue that begins in January and closes in December. Edited in the Universidad de Costa Rica, its objective is to disseminate original scientific information in Spanish or English language, through the publication of articles, short communications, technical notes and literature reviews, related with food and agriculture sciences from anywhere in the world, emphasized in tropical and subtropical zones. Agronomía Mesoamericana implements interoperability protocols that allow the journal to be harvested by other content distribution systems. It supports this process through the OAI-PMH protocol (Open Archives Initiative Protocol for Metadata Harvesting) that allows the transfer of scientific and open access digital resources. URL OAI-PMH https://revistas.ucr.ac.cr/index.php/agromeso/oai
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Bioactive compounds in cheeses: biosynthesis, biological activity, and contribution of lactic acid bacteria
Introduction. Since 1990, there has been an increase in the rate of diseases associated with unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles, whose care is a challenge for health systems. This has aroused interest in functional foods, i.e., those that in addition to providing macro and micronutrients, provide substances that have a physiological effect on the body, which translates into improving the health of those who ingest them. Generically, these compounds are known as bioactives. Objective. To review the main bioactive substances reported in cheeses, as well as the role of microorganisms in their production and the biosynthetic routes of the main compounds. Development. Milk and its derivatives are food products consumed around the world and show a constant increase in their production and consumption. This market trend is due to its flavor and nutritional value. One of the most demanded dairy products in the world are cheeses. They are a source of substances such as peptides, fatty acids, vitamins, bacteriocins, organic acids, gamma aminobutyric acid, etc. all with important biological activity. Conclusion. The presence, quantity, and availability of the bioactive compounds present in the cheeses differ, as a result of the type of milk used for its elaboration, the type of microorganism used, either as starter or secondary culture, as well as the technological process employed.
Copyright (c) 2023 Joel López-Mendoza, Lourdes Adriano-Anaya, Didiana Gálvez-López, Alfredo Vázquez-Ovando (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Fish waste silage, a green process for low feedstock availability. A Review
Introduction. Different fishing activities generate a waste volume related to the processing species (viscera, heads and bones), the discards of the companion fauna, species of low commercial value and the losses related to handling problems. Fish meal production is the most common process for recovery nutrients from these fish processing byproducts. However, those places with reduced infrastructure or where the volume of wastes produced do not justified the economic equation for conversion into fish meal or oil, the biological silage could be the technology of choice to promote a sustainable waste management. Objective. To compilate, organize and summarize literature related to biological fermentation of fish waste and its applications. Development. A bibliographic review was carried out (January 1994 - December 2020) referring to the comprehensive use of fishing residues mainly focused on the use of lactic acid bacteria in fish waste fermentation. The information was organized in different sections: fish silage, lactic acid bacteria and carbohydrate sources for biological silage. Conclusions. The studies analyzed in this review highlight the possibility of using a wide variety of carbohydrate sources, biological starters and fish waste fermentation conditions. The satisfactory results show the potential use of fish waste in different applications. This work could contribute to the fisheries that decide to adopt this kind technology in order to provide an innovative and viable recycling bioeconomy.
Copyright (c) 2023 Claudia Carina Libonatti, Daniela Alejandra Agüería, Javier Breccia (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Chemical and sensory attributes of meat from chickens fed Roystonea regia nuts
Introduction. Previous studies related to the inclusion of palmiche flour, nuts of the royal palm (Roystonea regia), in the diet of broiler chickens showed improvements in quality indicators related to lipid composition in thighs, legs, breasts, and abdominal fat. Objective. To assess the impact of palmiche flour consumption on the chemical and sensory attributes of broiler chicken meat. Materials and methods. The study was conducted over 35 days at the Institute of Animal Science, Mayabeque, Cuba, between February and March 2023, using forty 8-day-old male broilers. Experimental treatments comprised a control group and three inclusion levels of 5, 10, and 15 % of palmiche flour. Moisture and ash content were analyzed in thighs and breasts. Qualitative analysis of color, smell, flavor, dryness, hardness, and juiciness was performed in the control and 15 % inclusion treatments. Overall quality was assessed quantitatively. Results. Moisture increased in the treatments with 5 and 10 % inclusion compared to control and 15 % treatments, which showed no significant differences (69.92 and 70.45 vs. 65.70 and 65.71 %, respectively). Flavor intensity and overall quality in thighs and breasts improved by including 15 % of palmiche flour. Conclusions. While the consumption of 15 % of palmiche flour did not affect the chemical attributes of the meat, it improved sensory characteristics, particularly flavor, and overall quality of broiler thighs and breasts meat.
Copyright (c) 2025 Medeleidy Martínez-Pérez, Ivania Rodríguez-Álvarez, Lázara Ayala-González, Yoleisy García-Hernández, Magalys Herrera-Villafranca (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Unveiling the genetic structure of Costa Rican bovines through genetic admixture models
Introduction. The cattle population in Costa Rica is highly diverse due to the variety of production systems, ongoing crossbreeding, and the increase in genetic imports. Under these circumstances, admixture models provide a more suitable approach to describe the genetic composition of this population than phylogenetic trees based on predefined populations. Objective. To model the genetic structure of the Costa Rican cattle population by means of supervised and unsupervised genetic admixture models. Materials and methods. Hair samples from 1412 randomly selected bovines from 744 herds across 8 regions of Costa Rica were collected in 2015 and genotyped for 18 microsatellite markers. Two approaches that make use of admixture genetic models were compared: an unsupervised scenario, based exclusively on genotype data; and a supervised scenario, which relied on genetic data assisted by prior information on phenotype and production purpose. Results. Analysis of genetic data under both scenarios provided similar results when the number of clusters (K) was lower than five, although estimates from the supervised model were more homogeneous with lower standard deviations. A priori defined subpopulations were distributed consistently among clusters in both scenarios. The most probable subpopulation clustering was observed at K = 3, which mainly separated Bos indicus breeds, Jersey and other Bos taurus breeds. Breed types clustered concordantly with breed clustering, shedding light on the genetic structure of the population. Conclusions. The combination of admixture genetic models under a supervised approach yielded the most consistent results, which reveals the importance of considering genetic-environmental interrelationships to achieve a more precise description of the genetic structure of the Costa Rican cattle population.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bernardo Vargas-Leitón, Johnny Núñez-Cárdenas, Anthony Valverde-Abarca, Bernal León-Rodríguez, Alejandro Saborío-Montero (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Traceability in the agricultural sector: A review for the period 2017 – 2022
Introduction. Traceability is regarded in business systems as a monitoring and control tool that is centered on measuring and gathering data for efficient resource allocation. The agricultural sector is no stranger to this practice because, like other industrial systems, it integrates control needs at the level of cultivation, supply of inputs, transformation, transportation, and marketing of products. Objective. To identify objects and scopes of monitoring, analysis units, and adoption of traceability trends in the agricultural supply chain, in order to reference the development of recent studies and publications that integrate this control function in this sector. Development. The applied methodology was developed through the search, selection, and analysis of articles in scientific repositories such as Science Direct and AGRIS, to identify trends in agricultural traceability in the years 2017 to 2022. Application and integration trends of traceability systems were recognized in the agricultural sector around different approaches, including digitization and information security, measurement of agricultural productivity and environmental impact mainly within the concept of sustainability. Lines of research are presented in its conclusions, as well as the knowledge gaps for future work. Conclusions. The results of the review in the last six years frame traceability trends mainly in the digital monitoring of cultivation processes, the measurement of productivity, and the environmental impact. The degree of direct intervention in the producer represents the highest proportion in the category of the logistic scope of traceability. Therefore, it is recommended in the future the development of traceability systems that monitor productivity, environmental, and social impact indicators in a convergent manner, as well as the integrated participations of actors in the agricultural sector, including producers, technical advisors, and government entities.
Copyright (c) 2023 Andrés Mauricio Hualpa Zúñiga, Jorge Eliécer Rangel Díaz (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Semen analysis in precision farming in the 21st century
Introduction. Assisted reproduction of animals traces its origins in the domestication of livestock species useful to humans. The consequent artificial selection processes allowed the development of biotechnological techniques that contributed to the improvement of animal production capacities. Objective. To contextualize the seminal analysis in precision farming in the 21st century. Development. The visualization of spermatozoa under the microscope can be considered as the first step in the advent of reproductive biotechnology and the basis for the development of assisted reproductive techniques. With the improvement of microscopy methods, it was possible to characterize male gametes, which meant a significant advance in artificial insemination technology. The turning point marked by the development of sperm conservation techniques implied a substantive change in the development of these technologies in livestock species, either with cryopreserved or refrigerated semen. These methods are of high value in the case of threatened species since germplasm banks can be created for genetic conservation and rescue of species at risk of extinction. Semen analysis has been developed alongside with assisted reproduction techniques and today it is considered a relevant technique in animal reproduction biotechnology, which has been perfected through the advancement of science and technology, optical physics, and computing. Conclusion. Seminal analysis has undergone a paradigm shift by rejecting obsolete techniques of subjective evaluation of semen quality and adopting objective methods of semen evaluation, through the analysis of large volumes of data and motility, kinematics, morphometrics, morphological, and DNA fragmentation variables, which allow a better characterization of the ejaculates of breeders in artificial insemination centers.
Copyright (c) 2023 Carles Soler, Anthony Valverde (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Physicochemical and sensory characteristics of a caprine milk caramel with the inclusion of amaretto
Introduction. Worldwide, bovine dairy products are prevalent, so there is a need for studies focused on less traditional milk, such as goat milk. Objective. To evaluate the effect of two levels of inclusion of amaretto on the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of a goat milk caramel. Materials and methods. Between January and September 2017, at the Universidad de Costa Rica, milk caramels were made with two proportions (6 % and 9 %) of amaretto, which were selected using two focus groups, pH, Brix degrees, aw, texture, color, and sensory liking were evaluated. Results. The milk caramels with inclusion of 6 % and 9 % amaretto obtained the following characteristics respectively: 71.8 and 70.8 ºBrix, pH= 6.8 and 6.9, aw=0.8, hardness= 1.3 and 0.3, adhesiveness= 0.75 and 6.0, elasticity= 23.0 and 21.0, L*= 33.0 and 33.4, a*= 11.3 and 11.4, b*= 26.2, c*= 28.5 and 28.6, h*= 66.7 and 66.4, with an average liking of 7.3 and 7.7, and an average purchase intention of 6.9 and 7.2. The cluster analysis generated three groups of people: G1 = 25.5% with a mean liking of 4.7 and 6.2 for the 6 % and 9 % formulations, respectively; G2 = 19.6% with a mean liking of 8.5 and 5.5 for the 6 % and 9 % formulations, respectively; and G3 = 54.9% with a mean liking of 8.2 and 9.1 for the 6 % and 9 % formulations, respectively. Conclusions. The inclusion of amaretto in the goat milk caramel turned out to be the product with the best profile. No significant differences were observed between the two liquor inclusion levels. The results suggest that both products had appropriate technical characteristics and taste.
Copyright (c) 2023 Pamela Malavassi-Conejo, Alejandro Chacón-Villalobos, Diana Víquez-Barrantes, Marcia Cordero-García (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Effect of temperature and storage time on hen egg quality
Introduction. The hen egg is a food of high nutritional value, with protein of high biological value and easy digestion, due to that it is indispensable to know what affects its quality when storing it. Objective. To evaluate the effect of temperature and days of storage on egg quality. Materials and methods. The trial took place between December 2019 and January 2020, in Palmares, Alajuela, Costa Rica. In two different moments, egg samples were taken from Hy Line Brown hens: 1000 eggs at the start of production (21 weeks of age) and 1000 eggs at peak of production (28 weeks of age). The eggs were stored at controlled (7-10 °C) and room ((18-26 °C) temperatures for up to 21 days. The following egg physical quality parameters were assessed: egg weight, eggshell thickness and resistance, Haugh units, and yolk color at 1, 4, 7, 14, and 21 days of storage, as well as a qualitative evaluation according to USDA standards (2000). Results. Egg weight was significantly lower at room temperatures and longer days of storage at peak production. Eggshell thickness and resistance presented a positive relationship with each other. Haugh units presented a significant decrease as storage days go by, with a higher negative slope for the eggs at room temperature. The storage temperature and days of storage degraded the perception and qualitative classification of eggs by the consumers, in higher proportion for the eggs at room temperature. Conclusion. Storage at room temperature and between 14 to 21 days were factors that affected the egg quality and the possible consumer’s perception towards this product.
Copyright (c) 2023 Jennifer Madrigal-Portilla, Catalina Salas-Durán, Sofía Macaya-Quirós (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Egg quality and productive performance of ISA Brown laying hens with grazing access
Introduction. Egg production systems are critical to food security. Concerns about animal welfare are increasing the interest in egg production systems with access to grazing. Objective. To describe the productive performances, morphological characteristics, and nutritional quality of the eggs from laying hens of the Isa Brown genetic line in a floor system with access to grazing. Materials and Methods. The research was carried out between July 2018 and January 2020 in the central canton of Turrialba, Cartago, Costa Rica, with hens of the Isa Brown genetic line with access to grazing. Productive performances were compared with the standard of the genetic line. External and internal morphological variables of the egg were evaluated and its nutritional content (dry matter, crude protein, ethereal extract, ash, calcium, phosphorus, saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA), and polyunsaturated (PUFA) was characterized in hens of different ages. Results. The productive performances was not different from the genetic standard. The increase in bird age had a statistically significant influence on the increase in egg and shell weight, and the decrease in morphological index. Nutritional analysis indicated that increasing hen age decreased the dry matter content and the concentration of SFA and MUFA in the egg. The PUFA/SFA ratio of the eggs was higher than 0.45, regardless of the age of the laying hen. Conclusion. The productive indicators of the hens with access to grazing did not differ from ISA Brown genetic line standards for alternative systems. Egg weight, yolk index, Haugh units, and morphology index varied with the age of the hen.avicultura
Copyright (c) 2023 Rodolfo WingChing-Jones, Rebeca Zamora-Sanabria, Sianny Chavarría-Zamora (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Substrate and spatial planting pattern on the productivity of clonal mini gardens of Tectona grandis Linn. F
Introduction. Tectona grandis is the species with the largest planted area in Costa Rica, due to the high prices in the international market. The production of plants for reforestation has been technified in the country and is currently being developed based on protected environment technologies, which increase productivity, reduce operating costs, and offer planting material throughout the year. Objective. To evaluate the effect of two substrates and five planting densities on the productivity of clonal mini-gardens of Tectona grandis in a protected environment. Materials and methods. Four readily available inert substrates were characterized by granulometry and moisture retention analysis, from which stone dust was selected as the optimum substrate. An experimental trial with a 2x5 factorial design was established in San Carlos, Costa Rica to evaluate two substrates (stone dust alone and with 25 % charcoal) and five planting densities (cm) of 10x10, 10x5, 7x5, 10x10 with two plants per hole and 10x10 with one plant in the middle. Each density had four clones as a replicate effect. The trial was evaluated during five continuous production cycles from January to September 2021. Results. The use of stone dust as substrate, without charcoal, recorded the highest productivity at a lower cost. The spatial planting arrangement of 10x10 cm with one plant in the middle (n=145 plants/m2), recorded the highest shoot production per mother plant (1.16). The 7x5 cm arrangement increased productivity by up to 206 shoots m2/month. Conclusion. The change in planting density of the clonal mini-garden, in a first stage to 10x10cm with an additional plant in the center, resulted in a high impact on productivity (74 %), greater efficiency in the use of space, and a better gradual change in the operating system.
Copyright (c) 2023 Arantxa Rodríguez-Solís, Yorleny Badilla-Valverde, Olman Murillo (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Agricultural experiments with repeated measures over time: analysis strategies comparison
Introduction. Several modeling techniques have been used to analyze experiments with repeated measures over time; however, some of these are no longer relevant. Objective. To compare four analysis strategies that are used to analyze agricultural experiments with evaluations over time. Materials and methods. Data from an experiment in which the effect of different nitrogen fertilizer sources on chlorophyll content in a forage grass at different harvest ages was used. These data were analyzed using four strategies: the area under the curve index (AUC), multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), random effect of the experimental unit, and temporal correlation modeling. The lasts two strategies were performed under the theory of mixed linear models; in these different models were fitted, all with the same fixed effects structure, but with different random effects, residual correlation structure, or residual variance structure. Using penalized likelihood criteria [Akaike information criterion (AIC) and Bayesian information criterion (BIC)], the best fitting model was chosen, with which inferences were made about the means of the significant fixed effects, and compared with the results obtained from the AUC and MANOVA strategies. Results. The best fitting mixed linear had a compound symmetry correlation structure and heteroscedastic variances. This model allowed for the analysis of the treatment × time interaction; on the other hand, both the MANOVA and the AUC allowed for the analysis of temporal trends of the treatments. Conclusion. The best fitting mixed linear model made it possible to select the best treatment based on the evaluation time. On the other hand, both the MANOVA and the AUC led to the selection of treatments that were not the best at all evaluation times.
Copyright (c) 2023 Jorge Claudio Vargas-Rojas, Alejandro Vargas-Martínez, Eduardo Corrales-Brenes (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Morphological detection of charcoal rot in soybean and corn in Misiones, Argentina
Introduction. Charcoal rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina is a pathogen that survives in the soil through microsclerotia (Sclerotium bataticola stage). This pathogen affects different crops, among which soybeans (Glycine max L. Merrill) and corn (Zea mays L.) stand out due to their importance in Argentina. Objetive. To demonstrate that the cause of the deaths of soybean and corn plants in years of drought in the province of Misiones is charcoal rot. Materials and methods. Samples were collected from different locations in the province of Misiones, Argentina during February 2022. Through naked eye observation of diseased plants and with the help of stereoscopic and optical microscopy, the identity of the pathogen present was determined. Results. The presence of microsclerotia compatible with S. bataticola as the causal agent of charcoal rot was detected in corn and soybean samples in all samples from the province of Misiones. Conclusion. Charcoal rot caused by M. phaseolina is present in soybean and corn crops in the province of Misiones, Argentina.
Copyright (c) 2023 M. Lavilla, A. De Lucía, M. Heck, S. Fariza (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Detection of Duponchelia fovealis Zeller with pheromones in strawberry farms of Costa Rica
Introduction. Duponchelia fovealis Z. is a pest of production crops in Europe and in the United States. It has recently been detected in strawberry production in Brazil, Mexico, and in a farm in the Vásquez de Coronado canton, San José, Costa Rica. Objective. To determine the presence and distribution of Duponchelia fovealis Z. in strawberry farms in Costa Rica. Materials and methods. During the dry seasons of 2020-2021 and 2021- 2022, traps baited with the D. fovealis pheromone were placed in the initially reported farm in Vásquez de Coronado and in six other farms located in the main strawberry regions of Costa Rica: La Cima of Dota, Llano Grande, Poás, and Vara Blanca. Results. The monitoring showed that the highest populations were established in the Vásquez de Coronado farm, while occasional captures were obtained in farms such as La Cima of Dota in San José and two in Llano Grande in Cartago. Conclusions. The presence of D. fovealis Z. in Costa Rica was determined, with limited distribution. Given this, an analysis of the risk of the pest and the implementation of measures to reduce the insect’s dispersal are suggested.
Copyright (c) 2023 Francisco Gonzalez-Fuentes, Carlos Rodríguez-Chinchilla, Abelardo Jesús Arroyo-Vargas, Allan González-Herrera (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Entomofauna associated to tropical pastures, Cenchrus ciliaris, Chloris gayana, and Megathyrsus maximus
Introduction. Pastures are the primary source of food in livestock systems and can be a suitable niche for insects with beneficial and harmful functions. Objective. To estimate the entomofauna associated with three species of pastures, Cenchrus ciliaris, Chloris gayana, and Megathyrsus maximus, in conditions of the Colombian Caribbean. Materials and methods. Ten samplings were carried out in two contrasting periods (August to October 2018 and January to March 2019), three forage species (Cenchrus ciliaris, Megathyrsus maximus, Chloris gayana) within 1000 m2 were used. Arthropods were identified by order and family and typified by functional groups. Diversity and abundance indices by pasture and season were estimated, as well as their correlation with climate. A simple correspondence analysis was performed. Results. A total of 380 insects from 7 orders and 35 families were collected, with the greatest abundance for Hemiptera and Coleoptera. The Shannon’s diversity index was higher for all orders of C. gayana, except for Hemiptera in C. ciliaris. Phytophages were found in a higher percentage (66.84 %), followed by predators (27.11 %). Insect abundance was influenced by the interaction between season and pasture, showing an increase at low temperatures, except for M. maximus. Pastures represented adequate microenvironments to maintain the diversity of insects, the Hemiptera and Coleoptera orders being the most numerous and representative of the functional groups of phytophages and predators, respectively. Conclusion. The entomofauna of C. gayana, C. ciliaris, and M. maximus was similar in insect abundance and diversity, however, insect abundance depended on the influence of the season and pastures.
Copyright (c) 2023 Paola Vanessa Sierra-Baquero, Tatiana Sánchez-Doria, Esteban Burbano-Erazo (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Distribution of Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) in citrus production areas of Panama
Introduction. The asian psyllid (Diaphorina citri Kuwayama) is the main vector of the bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus that causes Huanglongbing (HLB) disease in citrus in Panama. Objective. To determine the geographic distribution and host plants of the asian psyllid within the citrus growing areas in Panama. Materials and methods. The study was carried out from June to October 2021 through systematic sampling within 46 localities associated with commercial citrus and home gardens in seven provinces of Panama. In each plant, two new shoots of 10 cm long were bagged with a magic-seal plastic bag to capture the specimens and introduce them into 2 mm plastic vials with 95 % alcohol for later identification. The study variable included the count of the total number of specimens, and the data was analyzed as a percentage. Results. Of the total of 73 collected samples, the presence of the Asian psyllid was confirmed in 21.92 % (16 samples). Its presence was positive in the provinces of Chiriquí, Coclé, Herrera, Panama, and West Panama, at altitudes of 17 to 1080 m.a.s.l. There was no presence of the psyllid in the provinces of Los Santos and Veraguas. Of the 16 samples that were positive, 50 % belonged to the myrtle plant, followed by orange (18.75%), and creole lemon (12.50 %). Conclusion. The distribution of the asian psyllid vector of HLB in commercial citrus and home gardens in the main citrus growing areas in Panama was presented at different heights above sea level, mainly associated with the presence of the host plants such as myrtle, orange, and creole lemon.
Copyright (c) 2023 Randy Atencio-Valdespino, Vidal Aguilera-Cogley, Anovel Barba-Alvarado, Iván Ramos, Rubén Collantes-González, José Lezcano (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Effect of vermicompost on Gros Michel banana (Musa AAA) development in greenhouse
<span class="CharOverride-2" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" data-mce-fragment="1">Introduction.<span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" data-mce-fragment="1"> From its initial stage, banana cultivation requires high-quality inputs for development and growth. The use of high-quality substrates, such as vermicompost, not only prevents the spread of soil diseases, but also promotes better development, which could help reduce production costs. <span class="CharOverride-2" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" data-mce-fragment="1">Objective.<span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" data-mce-fragment="1"> To evaluate the effect of vermicompost on the growth and development of banana plants cv. Gros Michel (<span class="CharOverride-5" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: 400; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" data-mce-fragment="1">Musa<span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" data-mce-fragment="1"> AAA) in nursery stage. <span class="CharOverride-2" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" data-mce-fragment="1">Materials and methods.<span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" data-mce-fragment="1"> At the Atlantic Campus of the Universidad de Costa Rica, located in Turrialba, Costa Rica, between July and September 2022, substrates were prepared with two types of vermicompost (anticipated [A] and delayed [P]) in doses of 0 %, 10 %, 25 % and 30 %.<span class="CharOverride-5" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: 400; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" data-mce-fragment="1"> In vitro <span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" data-mce-fragment="1">plants of Gros Michel banana (<span class="CharOverride-5" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: 400; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" data-mce-fragment="1">Musa<span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" data-mce-fragment="1"> AAA) in IV phase were then planted. Plant height, leaf area, number of leaves, leaf emission and pseudostem diameter were evaluated every two weeks. Corm diameter, fresh and dry biomass were analyzed at the beginning and end of the trial. <span class="CharOverride-2" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" data-mce-fragment="1">Results. <span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" data-mce-fragment="1">Vermicompost was beneficial at the lowest dose tested (10 % A and 10 % P). In the absence of vermicompost (0 %), plants showed the lowest development, while at the highest doses (30 % P), a phytotoxic effect was observed. <span class="CharOverride-2" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" data-mce-fragment="1">Conclusion. <span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 1; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" data-mce-fragment="1">Vermicompost stimulated banana plant growth based on the physiological variables evaluated compared to the treatment without vermicompost.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Comparison of fecal near-infrared with conventional methods to estimate intake and digestibility in sheep
Introduction. Intake and digestibility are parameters that define the quality of a forage; however, they are difficult and expensive to estimate. Near infrared spectroscopy technology applied to feces (NIRSf) is an alternative to conventional reference methods to estimate dry matter voluntary intake (DMVI) and digestibility (DMD) in sheep. Objective. To compare NIRSf technology with conventional methods for estimation of DMVI and DMD in confinement sheep. Materials and methods. Six bioassays were carried out at the Tibaitata research center, Cundinamarca, Colombia, during 2019 and 2021 with five sheep (LW 58.28±11 kg) to estimate DMVI and DMD by three methods: gravimetry, markers and NIRSf. The animals were fed six diets contrasting in their nutritional value. Forage and feces samples were collected, dried, and ground for subsequent chemical and spectral analysis. Results. The estimation of DMVI and DMD was different (p<0.001) in the six evaluated feeding regimenes, where the DMVIMW ranged from 37.54 to 82.58 g/kg LW0.75, and the DMD ranged from 36.32 to 58.81 %. In the comparison of the estimation of DMVI and DMD by the referent method (gravimetric) with marker and NIRSf methods, shows that the NIRSf method presented a better adjustment compared to the marker method, presenting less root mean square error value (-1.53 and -1.75, respectively), lower mean absolute error (-3.01 and -0.5, respectively), and higher determination coefficient (+0.09 and +0.28, respectively). Conclusion. The estimation of the DMVI and the DMD by means of the NIRSf equations presented a better fit compared to the marker method, however, it is necessary to improve the accuracy of the calibrations using feces samples from animals under different productive contexts.
Copyright (c) 2023 Diana Parra-Forero, Olga Mayorga Mogollón, Claudia Ariza-Nieto (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Cynara scolymus L. extract and betaine supplementation in sows during lactation
Introduction. The modern sow has the genetic capacity to produce a greater number of piglets per litter and a higher milk production, which means that the animal has higher nutrient requirements. Objective. To evaluate the performance of sows and their progeny to the supplementation of a commercial product based on artichoke dry extract (Cynara scolymus) and betaine hydrochloride during the lactation period. Materials and methods. The study was carried out during the first semester of 2020, in the province of Limón, Costa Rica. A total of 42 lactating sows were used and distributed in three treatments: control diet (T1), control diet + 0.25 kg t-1 of commercial product (T2), and control diet + 0.50 kg t-1 of commercial product (T3); the diets were isoproteic and isocaloric. Results. The inclusion of the additive showed a tendency to improve (p=0.09) the parameters evaluated in the sow. Body condition score loss was lower (p=0.03) with the T2, while supplementation with 0.50 kg t-1 presented intermediate results. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) between treatments for the parameters evaluated in the litters (weaning weight, weight gain, and number of weaned piglets by sow). Conclusion. The use of the additive showed a tendency to improve feed intake in the sow during the lactation period, reducing body weight loss and corporal condition during this period. The inclusion of the additive did not improve the performance in the piglets.
Copyright (c) 2023 Maikol Astúa-Ureña, Daniela María Cascante-Víquez, Luis Alejandro Rodríguez-Campos, Sergio Salazar-Villanea (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Refreshing whey drink with the addition of rice flour and orange flavor
Introduction. Whey is the residual liquid product of the manufacture of cheese with useful nutritional value. It contains 95 % of the lactose, 25 % of the proteins and 8 % of fat of the total milk components. Objective. To elaborate a refreshing whey drink with the addition of rice flour and orange concentrate. Materials and methods. The experimental work was realized at Food Department laboratories belongs to Pharmacy and Foods Institute from Universidad de La Habana-Cuba, between January and May 2021. The raw materials: whey, rice flower, and orange concentrated juice were characterized. A mix design was applied using Design–expert version 8.0 program to get the better formulation (combination of ingredients). The independent variables in percentage were: whey (79.95 to 84.15), concentrated orange juice (7 to 11), and guar gum stabilizer (from 0.1 to 0.3), and as response variables, acceptability and stability of the obtained drink. The best combination of ingredients was evaluated by a panel of judges based on the intensity of the odor, orange flavor, and consistency, using the attibutes “light”, “moderate” and “marked”. Results. The best formulation was composed of whey (84.15 %), orange concentrate (7 %), refined sugar (5 %), rice flour (3.75 %), and guar gum stabilizer (0.1 %). The sensorial acceptability criteria given by the training judges was “I like it”. Regarding the intensity of the orange smell, the whey beverage received a balanced criteria between the “light” and “moderate” ratings and the consistency was qualified as “light”. Conclusions. All formulations tested showed good stability and adequate sensory acceptability. The best combination showed no phase separation at 24 hours after processing and was characterized by twenty tasters.
Copyright (c) 2023 Ana Maritza Colominas-Aspuro, Dainelis Rodríguez-González, Héctor Manuel Zumbado-Fernández (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Identification of soluble proteins present in giant squid (Dosidicus gigas) meal for human consumption
Introduction. The giant squid (Dosidicus gigas) is a species of great abundance and considered as potential resource to meet the demand for protein in Peru. Giant squid meal represents an alternative to traditional proteins which can be used in food fortification. Objective. To optimize the extraction process and identification of soluble protein from giant squid meal (GSM). Materials and methods. This study was conducted at the Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina, Lima, Peru, between 2018 and 2019. To obtain the highest yield of soluble protein (Ŷ) extracted, an alkaline extraction method using NaOH followed by acid precipitation at pH 4.5 was applied. Surface response methodology was used to determine the optimal parameters for protein extraction such as temperature, concentration of NaCl, time, and the ratio GSM: solvent. A 1D and 2D electrophoresis study was carried out to find the distribution of molecular weights and to identify the main proteins of GSM. Results. Values for optimal response were the concentration of NaCl 0 M, an extraction time of 35 min, the ratio GSM: solvent of 1:31.72, and a temperature at 71.9 ºC. The molecular weights of the proteins detected were in the range of 6.5 and 38.37 kDa, which would correspond to tropomyosins, troponins, and myosin light chain residues. Conclusions. This study allowed to optimize the extraction parameters and to identify soluble proteins corresponding to the sarcoplasmic fraction of the giant squid meal (GSM), which could be used in the food industry.
Copyright (c) 2023 Juan Rodolfo Omote-Sibina, David Julián Roldán-Acero (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Use of plant densities and a microbial consortium for sustainable sunflower production
Introduction. The use of microbial consortia (CM) combined with adequate plant densities (DP) can be a viable and friendly alternative to increase sustainable sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) production. Objective. To determine the individual and combined effects of microbial consortia and plant densities on sunflower growth and yield under water-deficit conditions. Materials and methods. The study was conducted between January and May 2024 in Sancti Spíritus, Cuba. Under field conditions, an experiment was established using a split-plot arrangement in a randomized block design with three replications. The main plots consisted of two DP (20,000 and 40,000 plants/ha), and the secondary plots of three CM concentrations (0, 100, and 200 mL m-2). Results. Individually, DP and CM directly influenced sunflower growth and yield. The DP of 40,000 plants/ha favored plant height, leaf area index, percent of full seeds, seed mass per head, and yield. The DP of 20,000 plants/ha increased leaf area, chlorophyll content, head diameter, and total and full seed per head. The concentrations of 100 mL m-2 of CM stimulated plant growth and yield in both densities compared to the treatments without CM and with 200 mL m-2 of CM. Conclusions. The combination of a density of 40,000 plants/ha and inoculation with 100 mL m-2 of CM could be considered a local, viable, important, and friendly strategy to increase sustainable sunflower production under low-rainfall conditions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yanery Pérez-Díaz, Alexander Calero-Hurtado, Kolima Peña Calzada, Alay Jiménez Medina (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Nutritional contribution and sensory profile of panettone enriched with almonds, raisins and dehydrated blueberries
Introduction. In Peru, panettone, a brioche-type bread with raisins and candied fruit, is a product of high consumption throughout the year. Its preparation requires a large amount of flour, fat, and sugar, so its excessive consumption contributes to obesity problems and cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Objective. To determine the nutritional contribution and evaluate the level of acceptance of panettone enriched with almonds, raisins, and dehydrated blueberries, as a healthy alternative, without modifying the characteristic organoleptic attributes recognized by its consumers. Materials and methods. In the physicochemical laboratory of the Universidad de Barranca (Lima, Peru), in December 2019, three types of panettone were formulated replacing the traditional filling with almonds, blond raisins, and dehydrated blueberries for a final composition of 40, 45, and 50 % w/w. They were subjected to sensory evaluation by ranking preference tests to qualify the attributes (color, smell, taste, and texture) and acceptance test with hedonic scale, to qualify the acceptance of the final product. The most acceptable product underwent physicochemical analysis to determine the nutritional contribution of the proposal. Results. The formulation with the highest acceptance was 45 % filler, even though the differences between treatments were not significant (p>0.05) The macronutrient content was similar to what is offered in the market (p>0.05). In relation to micronutrients, a contribution of 8 g of unsaturated fatty acids, 0.36, 5.8, 4.9, 33.3, 9.3, and 109 mg of vitamins B2, B3, E, iron, zinc, and calcium respectively, was observed per 100g g portion. Conclusion. Almonds, blond raisins, and dried cranberries improved the nutritional density of panettone, without significantly affecting the organoleptic characteristics of the product.
Copyright (c) 2023 Grisel Violeta Chiroque Velásquez (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The effect of processing and storage on Klanceng honey (Tetragonula laeviceps)
Introduction. Klanceng honey (Tetragonula laeviceps) is in great demand because of its benefits. There is no information on the expiration date of the Klanceng honey. Objective. To predict the shelf life of Klanceng honey by evaluating the effect of heating (40 ºC / 48 h and 70 ºC / 7 h) and storage for two years. Materials and methods. The analysis was carried out three times (2020, 2021, and 2022) at the National Innovation Research Agency Laboratory, Jakarta, Indonesia. Samples of Klanceng honey (Tetragonula laeviceps) were taken from a bee farm in Magetan, East Java, Indonesia. The sample (5 kg) was divided into 3: without heating process (UT), heating at 40 ºC / 48 h (T1), and heating at 70 ºC / 7 h (T2). Then analyzed the activity of HMF, diastase, invertase, acid phosphatase (AP), glucose oxidase (GO), DPPH, honey color, and phenolic at 0, 12 and 24-months. Results. The results showed that short heating at high temperature (70 ºC / 7 h) had a greater impact on decreasing enzyme activity compared to prolonged heating at low temperature (40 ºC / 48 h). Storage had a major impact on the increase of 5-hydroxymethyl (furan)-2-carbaldehyde (HMF) compared to the heating process. During storage (24-months) the HMF value exceeded the maximum limit. Conclusions. The HMF value (55.33 ± 0.57 mg/kg) exceeded the maximum allowable limit (max 40 ppm), this was due to the significant effect of heating on T2 and the storage process. The shelf life of Klanceng honey was two years, as long as it was not heated to high temperatures (70 ºC).
Copyright (c) 2023 Budianto, Diah Kusmardini, Zefki Okta Feri, Muh Jaenal Arifin, Anik Suparmi, Kiki Kristiani (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Antioxidant substances in different phenological phases of Psidium guajava L.
Introduction. There is worldwide interest in determining the content of plant-based antioxidant substances, and the relationship of the phenological phases of the plant with the production of secondary metabolites. Objective. To determine the effect of phenological phases on the content of antioxidant substances of guava (Psidium guajava L.). Materials and methods. A population sample of 10 % of guava plants from the germplasm bank of CESID-Frutícola y Apícola-CORPOZULIA, located in the municipality of Mara, Zulia state, Venezuela, was evaluated. The content of total phenols (FeT), total flavonoids (FlT), and antioxidant capacity (CA) were determined in dry leaves samples at different phenological phases of the plant, recorded from October 2012 to September 2013. Extraction of the FeT was performed by ultrasound with 0.5 g of dry sample and a methanol: water mixture (80:20 % v/v). For quantification by UV-VIS absorption spectrophotometry, gallic acid for FeT and catechin for FlT were used as standard. The AC was determined by the cation-radical ABTS▪+. Non-parametric statistics were used using SPSS statistical software. Results. The three phenological phases (flowering, fruiting, vegetative sprouting) occurred in guava plants, the reproductive phase prevailed with 38.99 % of flowers and fruits; with higher average presence of vegetative shoots that occurred during the rainy season and the alternation between flowers and fruits production. Intra-population variability was observed in the content of antioxidant substances, FeT content, compared to CA and FlT, was higher in fruiting and in the absence of precipitation. Conclusion. The phenological phases had an effect on the content of antioxidant substances of guava. The fruiting phase had the highest content of total phenols. The contents of total phenols and flavonoids were related to antioxidant capacity.
Copyright (c) 2023 Evelyn Del Carmen Pérez-Pérez, Gretty Rosario Ettiene-Rojas, Maribel Del Carmen Ramírez-Villalobos, Ángel Gómez-Degraves (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Bacterial coinfections on foliar blight and bulb rot in onion (Allium cepa L.)
Introduction. The onion bulb (Allium cepa L.) is a cultivated vegetable characterized by its fleshy scales susceptible to phytopathogen attacks causing economic losses. The symptoms of foliar wilting, blighting, and rot of bulb can be caused by different genera and bacterial species that can co-infect the host, making it difficult to identify the causal agent. Objective. To evaluate the effect of bacterial co-infections on foliar wilt and bulb rot in onion. Materials and methods. The bacteria were isolated from onion plants with symptoms of leaf blight and bulb rot, from crops located in Choachí Cundinamarca, Colombia, collected in June 2018. Bacterial isolates were purified, identified, and inoculated individually and in a mixture on healthy onion leaves and bulbs. Six treatments per organ were evaluated: three with individual infections and three with co-infection. The lesion progress was measured in both organs for twelve days after inoculation. Results. Two bacterial species identified as Pantoea ananatis and Rahnella aquatilis were obtained from the foliar and bulb symptoms. In individual infections, the P. ananatis strain presented the highest virulence causing 34.29 % bulb damage, and 100 % leaf damage, while the R. aquatilis generated the lowest percentage of rotting in the bulb (8.87 %) and it did not produce wilt. In co-infections, the combination of P. ananatis and R. aquatilis produced the lowest percentages of bulb (15 %) and leaf (10 %) damage, associated with a decrease in the symptom’s expression. Conclusion. R. aquatilis acted as an antagonistic organism of P. ananatis and causes a delay in the development of foliar wilt and bulb rot symptoms in onion.
Copyright (c) 2023 Juan Carlos Jiménez-Acero, Rosa Raybaudi-Massilia, Adriana González-Almario (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Integrated management of yellow rust caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici in wheat
Introduction. Yellow rust caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, is currently the main disease of wheat (Triticum aestivum) in the north of the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. It has caused yield losses close to 20 %. Objective. To evaluate the effect of different agronomic management systems on wheat yield and incidence of yellow rust. Materials and methods. The trial was carried out in the town of Pergamino, Buenos Aires, Argentina, during the years 2019, 2020, and 2021. The experimental design was in subdivided plots, the largest plot was with and without cover crop, the subplot was agronomic management, and the sub-subplot the application was foliar fungicide at different phenological stages of the wheat crop. Results. With the use of foliar fungicides in stages close to stem elongation and the use of a cultivar resistant to the disease produced a reduction in the area under the disease progress curve (AUCPE) by 62.50 %, which translated into significant grain yield increases of 29.52 %. Foliar fungicide application resulted in a 16.94 % increase in wheat yield. The implementation of a sustainable integrated management system generated yield increases of 29.52 %. Conclusions. The use of a resistant cultivar and the application of a foliar fungicide at early stages and with low levels of the disease, significantly reduced the AUCPE of yellow rust and increased the wheat yield in experimental plots.
Copyright (c) 2023 M. Lavilla, A. Peper (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Colletotrichum species associated with anthracnose in orange (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osb.) and its in vitro control with fungicides
Introduction. Orange (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osb.) cultivation is one of the most important worldwide. Among the main limitations in its production is the fall of flowers caused by Colletotrichum. Objective. To determine the species of Colletotrichum associated with anthracnose in orange and to estimate the in vitro effectiveness of four fungicides on its control. Materials and methods. This study was carried out between June 2021 and February 2022. Six fungal isolates, obtained from orange floral tissues, were identified via polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The efficacy of the fungicides tebuconazole, pyraclostrobin, difenoconazole, and ferbam on two Colletotrichum isolates was evaluated. Two tests were carried out to determine the degree of inhibition of mycelial growth and the percentage of effectiveness of each fungicide. Results. Colletotrichum abscissum was identified on petals with symptoms and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides on calyxes. The effectiveness of the doses used of the fungicides tebuconazole and difenoconazole was verified by presenting inhibition of mycelial growth from a tenth of the commercial dose evaluated. Pyraclostrobin showed little control over both isolates. Ferbam did not present an efficient control in any of the doses evaluated in both strains. Conclusion. The fungi associated with anthracnose in orange, on the farm studied, were C. abscissum, present on petals with initial and advanced symptoms, and C. gloeosporioides present on persistent calyxes. The effectiveness of the fungicides evaluated was higher for triazoles, tebuconazole, and difenoconazole, in that order. Pyraclostrobin showed a poor control on both isolates. Ferbam was not effective in in vitro tests.
Copyright (c) 2023 María José Guillén-Carvajal, Gerardina Umaña-Rojas, Ingrid Varela-Benavides (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Nitrogen critical interval and sampling season in Coffea canephora in Cambisol soils
Introduction. The commercial introduction of Coffea canephora in Cuba occurred in 1930. Research on nitrogen fertilizer requirements has been conducted, but has not included foliar analysis as a criterion for the diagnosis of nutritional status. Objective. To establish the critical intervals of foliar nitrogen content and the most appropriate sampling moment to propose corrections to nitrogen fertilization in coffee. Materials and methods. The investigation was carried out between 2008 and 2011. The response of the coffee plants to nitrogen doses (0, 50, 100, 150, 200 kg ha-1) was studied in a randomized block experimental design with four replicates in soils of the Cambisoles order. Leaf sampling was carried out at the stages of flowering, fruiting, grain growth, and beginning of maturation. The relationships between relative yield and fertilizer doses were determined, as well as between the foliar N concentrations and relative yield. The critical range of N contents (%) that allowed reaching 90 % to 100 % of the relative yields was estimated. Results. Critical nitrogen intervals (ICN) for yields between 90 % and 100 % were similar among years and locations for fruiting, although they varied among phenological stages. The highest foliar concentrations and the widest range of these (2,79–2,97 % N) were found at the beginning of fructification, which was considered the most appropriate time to correct the fertilization system employed. There was a relationship between the relative annual crop yields and the N foliar concentrations for the robusta coffee plants. Conclusions. The critical nitrogen intervals of foliar N in coffee plants was established in the fruiting stage with a concentration of 2.79 %. Sampling at the beginning of fruiting was the most appropriate to assess the correction of nitrogen fertilization.
Copyright (c) 2023 Alberto Pérez-Díaz, Carlos Bustamante-González, Rolando Viñals-Núñez, Ramón Rivera (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Germination and growth of Sterculia colombiana in Arosemena Tola, Napo, Ecuador
Introduction. The Amazon region has a great plant diversity, but studies on their propagation and growth have been carried out in few species. Objective. To evaluate the in situ and ex situ germination of Sterculia colombiana and its growth characteristics after planting in ground covers of primary forest and intervened areas. Materials and methods. The study was carried out in Napo, Ecuador, in the period 2019-2020. The germination of S. colombiana was characterized in the variables: days and percentage to emergence, plant height, stem diameter and number of leaves, under greenhouse conditions and planted at the collection site. The plants obtained in the germination test were transplanted to a ground cover of primary forest (in situ) and an intervened area with replacement vegetation (ex situ). Linear, quadratic, cubic, exponential, and logarithmic growth models for stem height and diameter were evaluated. The air and soil temperature and the physical-chemical characteristics of the soil were recorded. An analysis of variance was performed to determine differences in growth and survival between the plantation sites and between the plants obtained in the in situ and ex situ tests. Results. The seedlings obtained from greenhouses reported fewer days to emergence and higher values in the rest of the variables evaluated than those grown in situ. The plants developed in the different evaluated covers, without significant differences in growth at the end of the study, only a significant correlation at 5 % between stem diameter and air temperature was reported. Conclusions. Sterculia colombiana germinated in a greenhouse and developed in the transplant sites, without this influencing its growth. Temperature was the only factor that reported significant correlations with growth at the end of the evaluation period.
Copyright (c) 2023 Ricardo Vinicio Abril-Saltos, Evelyn Aracely Villacis-Estrada, Micela Delsy Tapuy-Andi, Briyidt Maryeli Pillco-Herrera, Jonny David Quishpe-Lopez, Katherin Pamela López-Adriano (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Microbiology of carrot, tomato and cabbage from organic and conventional agriculture in Costa Rica
Introduction. Interest in consuming fresh products such as vegetables has been increasing over the years. Different cultivation methods to produce vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes, and cabbages are available. Conventional and organic farming systems are the most common. Objective. To compare the microbiology of carrot, tomato and cabbage from farms with organic or conventional agricultural production systems in Costa Rica. Materials and methods. Sampling was carried out in Cartago, Heredia and Alajuela, Costa Rica, from September 2020 to November 2021, during the rainy season in all cases. Vegetables from model farms of carrot, tomato and cabbage, one of organic production and three of conventional production, were sampled. Microbial counts of total aerobic mesophilic, total coliforms, Escherichia coli, yeasts and molds, and the absence/presence of Listeria monocytogenes were determined. Results. Total aerobic, yeast and mold and total coliform counts for conventionally and organically grown carrots, cabbages, and tomatoes did not differ from each other. In the vegetables studied, E. coli counts were <1 log CFU/g and Listeria monocytogenes was absent. Presence of Listeria sp. in carrot samples from conventional cultivation was found in contrast to its absence in carrots from organic cultivation. Conclusions. L. monocytogenes was absent in the vegetables studied, which in general had acceptable microbial loads according to regulations and similar to studies reported worldwide. Under controlled conditions, when compared to those obtained from conventional production systems, it is possible to obtain vegetables from organic farming without detriment to their microbiological quality and with the derived benefits for the health of the consumer and the environment.
Copyright (c) 2023 Fiorella Castro-Urbina, Viviana Wittmann-Vega, Gabriela Davidovich-Young, Eric Wong-González (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0