Agronomía Mesoamericana
type: channel
description: 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
publisher: Universidad de Costa Rica
language: en
publication name: Agronomía Mesoamericana
issn: 1021-7444
items: Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) infestation in maize and its management using mulberry organic residues
items: Climatic conditions and jersey cattle dairy production on two altitudinal levels
items: Purines discharge capacity of a liquid manure spreading tank
items: Morphological characterization of commercial genotypes of Mangifera indica L. in the dry tropics of Guanacaste
items: Diversified cowpea cropping design in the Sudan Savannah of Ghana
items: Identification methods for Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) in México
items: Comparison of agricultural and economic productivity of sustainable and conventional papaya in Michoacan, Mexico
items: Detection of viruses in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) using qPCR
items: Owner perceptions and management of stereotypic behaviors in four horse breeds in Costa Rica
items: Fusarium wilt by tropical race 4: Current status and presence in the American continent
items: Technical-economic assessment of supplementation frequency over grazing steer in Córdoba, Colombia
items: Fatty acids composition of genotypes of Jatropha curcas L., in Colombia
items: Regulated deficit irrigation and its effect on the nutrition, productivity and quality on passionfruit
items: Production and quality of Tithonia diversifolia and Sambucus nigra high andean colombian tropic
items: Detection of the 35S promoter by real-time PCR as a transgenicity indicator in food and Gossypium sp.
items: Productive characteristics of forage crops for supplementation in milk production systems, Nariño, Colombia
items: Pea production and commercialization in the department of Nariño-Colombia
items: Herd management information systems to support cattle population research: the VAMPP® case
items: Quantification and characterization of waste generated during milking of Jersey cattle
items: Predictive value of soil exchangeable potassium in mycorrhiza-inoculated banana under organic-mineral fertilization in Cuban Cambisols
items: Water demand of black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) determined by NDVI
items: Growth response of cilantro (Coriandrum sativum L.) cultivated hydroponically under contrasting cover and nutrient regimes
items: Plant-parasitic nematodes in potato crops of Cartago, Costa Rica: variation by altitude and soil
items: Fungi associated with sorghum seeds and persistence of Fusarium after surface disinfestation
items: Genetic diversity analysis of Indonesian soybean genotypes based on morphological characteristics and SSR markers
items: Agronomic characteristics of maralfalfa (Pennisetum sp.) seedlings according to sowing and harvesting density
items: Allelopathy of Ageratum conyzoides L. on Bidens pilosa L., Oryza sativa L., and Cucumis sativus L.
items: Quality of Ancho maize populations from Guerrero, Mexico, for pozole-making
items: Characterization of the symptoms of Thanatephorus sp. in potato (Solanum tuberosum)
items: Effect of water depletion on the physical-hydraulic, physicochemical, and agronomic properties of hydroponic pepper and tomato

Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) infestation in maize and its management using mulberry organic residues
type: item
description: Introduction. Soil incorporation of Morus alba biomass mitigates Spodoptera frugiperda damage in maize, through the release of bioactive secondary metabolites with antifeedant properties. Objective. To characterize farmer perceptions of Spodoptera frugiperda severity and evaluate the efficacy of Morus alba residue incorporation as a sustainable management strategy in the Mocache canton, Ecuador. Materials and methods. The research was conducted between December 2023 and May 2024. The study consisted of two phases: a survey of farmers and a field experiment. The farmers were surveyed regarding the agronomic practices they implemented to manage S. frugiperda. The experiment was conducted in the locality of Jesús del Gran Poder and consisted of three treatments: i) a control without pest management or residue incorporation (Control); ii) soil incorporation of 1 t ha⁻¹ of a mixture of maize residues (80 %) and fragmented mulberry cv. Tigreada (20 %) (M+M); and iii) the application of methomyl insecticide. The variables of severity of infestation and agricultural yield were evaluated. A randomized complete block design with three treatments and three replicates was employed. Treatment means were compared using Duncan’s multiple range test (α = 0.05). Statistical processing was performed using the InfoStat package. Results. Residue incorporation reduced severe foliar damage (grades 4-5) to 29.6%, significantly lower than the control (36.1%; p < 0.05). Grain yield reached 4.1 t ha⁻¹ with residues, statistically comparable to methomyl (4.6 t ha⁻¹) and 17 % higher than the control (3.5 t ha⁻¹). Conclusions. The high perception of severity of S. frugiperda by farmers corresponds with high levels of infestation, associated with inadequate agronomic practices and poor technical training. The maize and mulberry residues incorporated into the soil reduce severity and allow obtaining yields like the insecticide, validating its effectiveness as a management alternative in Ecuador a…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
creator: Ramiro Remigio Gaibor-Fernández
creator: Sergio Florentino Rodríguez-Rodríguez
creator: Paula Marisol Plaza-Zambrano
creator: Lázara Meilín Infante-Diéguez
creator: Ramon Jaime Holguín Peña
creator: Wilson Geobel Ceiro-Catasú
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Ramiro Remigio Gaibor-Fernández, Sergio Florentino Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Paula Marisol Plaza-Zambrano, Lázara Meilín Infante-Diéguez, Ramon Jaime Holguín-Peña, Wilson Geobel Ceiro Catasú (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-21
publication date: 2026-07-21
starting page: rnnkka43
ending page: rnnkka43
doi: 10.15517/rnnkka43

Climatic conditions and jersey cattle dairy production on two altitudinal levels
type: item
description: Introduction. Precipitation, temperature, radiation, and relative humidity vary according to height, this causes the presence of microclimates that affect the productivity of the animals. Objective. Associate the climatic conditions present in the productive systems with dairy production of a pure Jersey herd in two altitudinal floors of the province of Cartago, Costa Rica. Materials and methods. In retrospect, during the year 2016, the productive information of two dairy farms, located at 660 and 1800 m.a.s.l. was evaluated. From the first farm, the records of 61 animals in a twelve-year period (12,083 data) were analyzed; while in the second, the lactations of 387 animals in a five-year period (13,820 records) were analyzed. Observations included: identification of the cow, day of generation of the record, month, year, daily milk production, lactation days, calving number, animal age, temperature, precipitation, solar radiation and average relative humidity. Results. The lactation days, the lactation number (3-5), the age of the animal (3.7 to 5.8 years), and the calving number affected the daily milk production on both farms (p<0.001). At 1800 m, when the precipitation was greater than 5 but less than or equal to 10 mm day-1 and the relative humidity greater than 80 but less than 90 % day-1 (p<0.001), milk production decreased. On the other hand, at 660 m the effect came from relative humidity less than or equal to 70 %. The environmental temperature had a significant effect in both altitudes. Conclusion. The conditions of temperature, humidity, precipitation, and radiation in each ecosystem, generated differences in the productivity of the animals, related to the type of forages and the thermal sensation to which the cattle was exposed, which caused heat or cold stress.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Bos taurus
  topic: keywords
subject: microclimate
  topic: keywords
subject: heat stress
  topic: keywords
subject: humidity and temperature index
  topic: keywords
subject: lactation curve
  topic: keywords
creator: Juan Federico Conejo-Morales
creator: Rodolfo WingChing-Jones
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Juan Federico Conejo-Morales, Rodolfo WingChing-Jones (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2019-12-05
publication date: 2019-12-05
starting page: 157
ending page: 176
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.34739

Purines discharge capacity of a liquid manure spreading tank
type: item
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subject: Technical Notes
  topic: section
subject: organic waste
  topic: keywords
subject: fertigation
  topic: keywords
subject: agricultural equipment
  topic: keywords
creator: Carlos Boschini-Figueroa
creator: Claudio Fabián Vargas-Rodríguez
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Carlos Boschini-Figueroa, Claudio Fabián Vargas-Rodríguez (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-01-01
publication date: 2020-01-01
starting page: 251
ending page: 258
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.33544

Morphological characterization of commercial genotypes of Mangifera indica L. in the dry tropics of Guanacaste
type: item
description: Introduction. The morphological and physicochemical characterization of mango (Mangifera indica L.) determines the variability among cultivated materials. Despite its economic importance, the documentation of mango genetic resources remains limited. Objective. To characterize the morphological diversity of ten commercial mango genotypes conserved in the dry tropic of Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the Santa Cruz Experimental Farm, University of Costa Rica, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, in 2025. Ten commercial genotypes were evaluated using descriptors from the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute. Dendrometric and foliar variables were recorded, such as trunk circumference, growth habit, crown shape, and leaf characteristics. Total weight, length, circumference, pulp, peel, and seed weight, as well as the length-to-circumference ratio and soluble solids content (°Brix), were measured. Statistical analysis included normality tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, principal component analysis, and hierarchical clustering. Results. Fruit traits showed the greatest genetic variability, with high coefficients of variation for total weight (35.01 %) and pulp weight (39.32 %). The genotypes Edwards, Pope, and Earlygold produced larger fruits, while Fair Child, Davis Haden, and M13768 produced smaller fruits. Soluble solids content ranged from 13,5 to 21,1 °Brix. Fair Child, Yulie and Edwards recorded the highest values. Principal component analysis explained 85 % of the total variation, and hierarchical clustering grouped the genotypes into three groups based on fruit size and °Brix. Conclusions. The evaluated genotypes exhibited high morphological diversity and represent valuable resources for the conservation and improvement of the crop in the dry tropic of Guanacaste.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: genetic diversity
  topic: keywords
subject: morphology
  topic: keywords
subject: varietal descriptor
  topic: keywords
subject: phenotype
  topic: keywords
subject: germplasm
  topic: keywords
creator: Dalila Solano-Rojas
creator: Jairo Mora-Prendas
creator: José Andrés Rojas-Chacón
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Dalila Solano-Rojas, Jairo Mora-Prendas, José Andrés Rojas-Chacón (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-20
publication date: 2026-07-20
starting page: 6jrg1g19
ending page: 6jrg1g19
doi: 10.15517/6jrg1g19

Diversified cowpea cropping design in the Sudan Savannah of Ghana
type: item
description: Introduction. Climate change and low-intensity cropping technologies limit cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] yield in sub-Saharan Africa. Objective. To implement and optimize high-intensity climate-smart cropping systems for cowpea. Materials and methods. Cowpea was planted using four seeds per hill, spaced at 75 × 20 cm in a randomized complete block design with four replicates, and later thinned to the required stand at the Savanna Agricultural Research Institute, Manga, Ghana, in 2021 and 2022. Four planting designs were used: a single row with two plants per hill at the center of the ridge (66 667 plants/ha); a single row with one plant per hill at the center of the ridge (33 333 plants/ha); a double row with two plants per hill on both sides of the ridge (133 333 plants/ha); and a double row with one plant per hill on both sides of the ridge (66 667 plants/ha). Days to 50 % and 90 % flowering, pod load and pod length, number of seeds per pod and 100-seed weight, and grain and biomass yields were recorded. Results. Planting designs and plant densities had no effect on the number of days to flowering. A single row with two plants per hill or a double row with one plant per hill increased pod load. A single row with two plants per hill or a single row with one plant per hill improved the number of seeds per pod. Planting a single row of two plants per hill or a double row of two plants per hill optimized grain and biomass yields. Conclusions. Different planting designs and plant densities can enhance pod load, improve the number of seeds per pod, and optimize cowpea grain and biomass yields.
subject: Technical Notes
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: legume
  topic: keywords
subject: cropping technology
  topic: keywords
subject: sustainable cropping
  topic: keywords
subject: spacing
  topic: keywords
subject: smallholder farmers
  topic: keywords
creator: Emmanuel Asibi Aziiba
creator: Richard Dormatey
creator: Peter Quandahor
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Emmanuel Asibi Aziiba, Richard Dormatey, Peter Quandahor (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-15
publication date: 2026-07-15
starting page: s94azk14
ending page: s94azk14
doi: 10.15517/s94azk14

Identification methods for Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) in México
type: item
description: Introduction. The tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) was first reported in Israel and Jordan in 2014, causing damage to tomato crops in protected agriculture. Objective. To collect information on the known distribution, current situation, and detection methods of ToBRFV. Development. Between 2018 and 2019, the presence of the virus was confirmed in Mexico, the United States, China, Germany, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and Italy. Electron microscopy and serological tests have been used to detect the virus, but these cannot differentiate ToBRFV among other tobamoviruses. The most effective diagnostic technique for detection is specific oligonucleotides developed from the isolates from Israel and Jordan. Hygiene protocols are the most important step in preventing infections. Conclusion. Efforts to control ToBRFV are currently focused on the use of strict sanitation and detection practices in seed and plant, using molecular reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) techniques with specific oligonucleotides, which avoid false positives.
subject: Literature Reviews
  topic: section
subject: tobamoviruses
  topic: keywords
subject: PCR
  topic: keywords
subject: Solanum lycopersicum
  topic: keywords
creator: Luis Ismael Nolasco-García
creator: Juan Luis Marín-León
creator: Jorge Eric Ruiz-Nieto
creator: Jesús Hernández-Ruíz
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Luis Ismael Nolasco-García, Juan Luis Marín-León, Jorge Eric Ruiz-Nieto, Jesús Hernández-Ruíz (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-09-01
publication date: 2020-09-01
starting page: 835
ending page: 844
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i3.40655

Comparison of agricultural and economic productivity of sustainable and conventional papaya in Michoacan, Mexico
type: item
description: Introduction. In Buenavista, Michoacan, Mexico, the area planted with papaya (Carica papaya L.) is of the Maradol Roja variety and most farmers use a conventional agricultural production model, where the productivity and profitability of the crop is not known with certainty. culture; therefore, it is important to know these two variables in order to obtain an efficient production that in the medium term allows them to improve the socio-economic environment of the farmers. Objective. Compare a sustainable agricultural production model against the conventional papaya production model, to identify agricultural production and the cost-benefit ratio. Materials and methods. The experiment was carried out in the municipality of Buenavista, Michoacan, Mexico during 2015. It was characterized by having two experimental units, one treatment per unit [sustainable and conventional] with a simple randomized sampling. Fruit weight, total soluble solids, and fruits per plant were evaluated. Statistical analysis included Levene’s test, Kolmogorov-Smirnov, and Lilliefors test, ANOVA and non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test. Economic analysis was carried out with the indicators: total investment cost, total income, cost-benefit ratio, profitability, and break-even point. Results. The sustainable model showed for fruit weight 1.71 kg, 38.06, fruits per plant, total investment cost of USD $ 8,736.83 ha-1, cost-benefit ratio of 2.24, and an equilibrium point of 38.47 %. The conventional model showed 2.20 kg in fruit weight, 53.72 fruits per plant, a total investment cost of USD $ 9,262.03 ha-1, cost-benefit ratio 1.08, and an equilibrium point of 90.11 %. Conclusion. The conventional model was economically unfavorable, so it is suggested to gradually improve it until it becomes profitable. The sustainable model proved to be very economically attractive and to have efficient use of local natural resources.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Carica papaya L.
  topic: keywords
subject: crop management
  topic: keywords
subject: crop yield
  topic: keywords
subject: responsible investment in agriculture
  topic: keywords
subject: profitability
  topic: keywords
creator: José Mario Miranda-Ramírez
creator: Omar Aguilar-García
creator: Diana Miranda-Medina
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 José Mario Miranda-Ramírez, Omar Aguilar-García, Diana Miranda-Medina (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-05-01
publication date: 2020-05-01
starting page: 385
ending page: 403
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i2.38615

Detection of viruses in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) using qPCR
type: item
description: Introduction. Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) is a root crop very susceptible to viral diseases, which have been associated with crop yield reductions of over 50 %. In the Costa Rican sweet potato plantations the presence of feathery mottle virus (SPFMV), chlorotic stunt virus (SPCSV), and leaf curl virus (SPLCV) have been reported, for the development of adequate control programs, early detection and identification is necessary through the use of sensitive and efficient techniques. Objective. The objective of this research was to estimate the incidence of SPFMV, SPCSV, and SPLCV in sweet potato plantations using qPCR. Materials and methods. In 2018 foliar tissue samples were collected from eighty plants showing viral symptoms from twenty-five sweet potato plantations distributed in four provinces in Costa Rica. The detection of the three viruses was performed by qPCR with the use of primers and specific hydrolysis probes. Results. In 92 % of the plantations studied, the presence of virosis was found. The Sweet potato virus disease (SPVD) defined as the combined infection of SPFMV and SPCSV, was the most common viral disease found in all plantations. The plantations located in Sabanilla, El Cacao, and La Guacima were the only ones to present the three viruses studied. The SPLCV virus was only detected in the Limón and Alajuela provinces. Conclusion. It is possible to make an early detection of three of the most frequent sweet potato viruses with the use of qPCR which would contribute to certified seed production programs.
subject: Technical Notes
  topic: section
subject: viruses
  topic: keywords
subject: Multiple PCR
  topic: keywords
subject: sweet potato
  topic: keywords
subject: Costa Rica
  topic: keywords
subject: root vegetable
  topic: keywords
creator: Ingrid Varela-Benavides
creator: Carla Trejos-Araya
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Ingrid Varela-Benavides, Carla Trejos-Araya (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-01-01
publication date: 2020-01-01
starting page: 223
ending page: 235
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.37668

Owner perceptions and management of stereotypic behaviors in four horse breeds in Costa Rica
type: item
description: Introduction. There is little information about stereotypic behaviors in stock-type sport horses and paso horses in Costa Rica. The lack of knowledge regarding stereotypic behaviors, such as cribbing, weaving, and stall walking in horses, affects their welfare. Objective. The objective of this study was to monitor the status of stereotypic behaviors and the management reported by owners of horses registered in ACRICAMDE and ASCACOPA in Costa Rica.Materials and methods. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June through September 2018 in Costa Rica to gather information on horse behavior and current management practices of 552 horses of the breeds Quarter Mille, Appaloosa, American Paint Horses and Costa Rica Paso. The database collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results. Almost half of the horse owners (48.4 %) reported stereotypic behaviors, being cribbing the most observed (86.2 %), followed by stall walking (24.1 %) and weaving (13.8 %). Most owners and managers (89.7 %) have tried to stop horses from performing stereotypic behaviors with anti-cribbing collars and by increasing social contact with other horses as the most common approaches. Fewer hours of grazing were reported (2 or less, or none) while there were horses without access to pasture (35.7 %). Conclusion. Horse owners of the breeds included in this study lacked knowledge of stereotypic behaviors. In order to improve management of these behaviors, more training is required to avoid further complexities under the current conditions.
subject: Technical Notes
  topic: section
subject: animal welfare
  topic: keywords
subject: cribbing
  topic: keywords
subject: weaving
  topic: keywords
subject: stall walking
  topic: keywords
subject: abnormal behaviors
  topic: keywords
creator: Ana Margarita Arias-Esquivel
creator: Carissa L. Wickens
creator: Luis A. Villalobos-Villalobos
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Ana Margarita Arias-Esquivel, Carissa L. Wickens, Luis A. Villalobos-Villalobos (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-01-01
publication date: 2020-01-01
starting page: 237
ending page: 249
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.37852

Fusarium wilt by tropical race 4: Current status and presence in the American continent
type: item
description: Introduction. Fusarium wilt, caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense, tropical race 4, is considered the most lethal disease of the musaceae because it can survive on the ground for more than twenty years, without effective control. Objective. Review the current status and significant features of this disease and indicate the potential impact risk in Latin America and the Caribbean countries in the face of its recent report in Colombia. Developing. It has several races: race 1 attacks clones of the Silk (Musa AAB) and Gros Michel (Musa AAA) subgroups and was responsible for the loss of the world banana market in 1958, dominated by the latter, being replaced by Cavendish clones (Musa AAA). Race 2 attacks clones of the Bluggoe subgroup (Musa ABB); and race 4, through its tropical and subtropical variants, attacks all Cavendish clones, and those susceptible to race 1 and race 2. There are no natural clones that can replace the current ones. Tropical race 4 (R4T), has spread in different continents, causing multimillion dollar losses, with extreme limitations for its eradication, and recently is a cause for concern in Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries, due to its recent report in the Colombian Guajira. Conclusion. The deficient control, and ignorance of thr traits of the pathogen and the disease, make necessary the development of research for its early diagnosis, management strategies, education measures, and / or promotion of contingency plans. Recently it was detected in Colombia, which implies high risk for the rest of the countries of the LAC region (with emphasis on Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela), due to the constant flow of people (including tourists) and commercial transactions, being necessary in a way it is imperative to review the risk analysis in this new scenario.
subject: Literature Reviews
  topic: section
subject: banana
  topic: keywords
subject: disease
  topic: keywords
subject: plantains
  topic: keywords
subject: production
  topic: keywords
subject: Musa AAB
  topic: keywords
subject: Musa AAA
  topic: keywords
creator: Gustavo E. Martínez-Solórzano
creator: Juan C. Rey-Brina
creator: Rafael E. Pargas-Pichardo
creator: Edwuar Enrique-Manzanilla
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Gustavo E. Martínez-Solórzano, Juan C. Rey-Brina, Rafael E. Pargas-Pichardo, Edwuar Enrique-Manzanilla (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2019-12-11
publication date: 2019-12-11
starting page: 259
ending page: 276
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.37925

Technical-economic assessment of supplementation frequency over grazing steer in Córdoba, Colombia
type: item
description: Introduction. Beef production is affected by stationarity forage production and fed cost. Feed frequency evaluations according to pasture could suggest an appropriate practice for profitability improvement. Objective. To evaluate technically and economically the frequency of supplementation of Brahman fattening steers in grazing. Materials and methods. In the middle valley of the Sinú river, Colombia, 108 steers were used distributed in a split-plot design into three pastures (Cynodon nlemfuensis, Megathyrsus maximus, and Brachiaria hybrida, main plot) and three supplementation schemes (subplot): daily (STD), every two days (SDpM) and without supplementation (SS). The daily weight gain (GPD) and morphometric characteristics were evaluated in steers. In the carcass: weight, yield, length, leg perimeter, fat thickness, and compactness index. The biophysical data results fed the financial evaluation of the implemented technology. Results. An interaction of pasture and supplementation frequency over daily weight gain was detected (p<0.05). The highest GPD was observed in animals of the STD treatment for the grass C. nlemfuensis (680 g day-1), while a B. hybrida cv Mulato II in SDpM recorded the lowest GPD with 500 g day-1. An effect (p<0.05) of the diet on body length was observed (150 vs. 152 cm for not supplemented and supplemented steers, respectively). There were no differences (p<0.05) between treatments over carcass characteristics. Conclusions. The biological response in GPD did not compensate for the differential operating cost in the supplemented animals. It is necessary to evaluate new diets with raw materials and inclusion levels that contribute to the increase in animal production, to generate a detectable change in the animal and economic response.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: carcass composition
  topic: keywords
subject: biometrics
  topic: keywords
subject: forages
  topic: keywords
subject: weight gain
  topic: keywords
subject: cottonseed
  topic: keywords
subject: rice bran
  topic: keywords
creator: Lorena Inés Mestra-Vargas
creator: Wilson Andrés Barragán-Hernández
creator: Diego Andrés Medina-Herrera
creator: Hernando Flórez-Díaz
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Lorena Inés Mestra-Vargas, Wilson Andrés Barragán-Hernández, Diego Andrés Medina-Herrera, Hernando Flórez-Díaz (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-05-01
publication date: 2020-05-01
starting page: 353
ending page: 366
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i2.38389

Fatty acids composition of genotypes of Jatropha curcas L., in Colombia
type: item
description: Introduction. Jatropha curcas L. (JC) is a specie with the potential to use its oil as a biofuel and its quality is recognized by the composition of the fatty acids present. Objective. The objective of this work was the identification and quantification of fatty acids of JC genotypes of the Jatropha Colombia Collection. Materials and methods. During the years 2012-2014 the experiment was conducted in Espinal-Tolima, Colombia, in a randomized complete block design with fifteen genotypes. The lipid profile of the genotypes was determined by chromatography GC-MS and GC-FID. Results. Ten types of fatty acids were detected in the oil: five saturated (myristic, palmitic, margaric, stearic, arachidic); three monounsaturated (palmitoleic, oleic and eicosenoic), and two polyunsaturated (linoleic and linolenic). The proportion was higher in monounsaturated acids (45.44 %) and polyunsaturated acids (34.18 %) and lower in saturated acids (20.37 %). In the monounsaturated, the oleic predominated (44.62 %); in polyunsaturated linoleic (33.95 %) and in saturated palmitic (12.41 %) and stearic (7.43%). The results found allowed the classification of JC oil as monounsaturated-polyunsaturated (oleic-linoleic), which coincided with what was reported worldwide. Conclusion. Based on the lipid profile, it can be inferred that the oil of the fifteen genotypes evaluated in Colombia is suitable for use as biodiesel.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: stearic acid
  topic: keywords
subject: linoleic acid
  topic: keywords
subject: oleic acid
  topic: keywords
subject: biofuels
  topic: keywords
creator: Luis Fernando Campuzano-Duque
creator: Fernando Cardeño-López
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Luis Fernando Campuzano-Duque, Fernando Cardeño-López (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-01-01
publication date: 2020-01-01
starting page: 95
ending page: 104
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.37574

Regulated deficit irrigation and its effect on the nutrition, productivity and quality on passionfruit
type: item
description: Introduction. Water stress has been recorded as one of the main environmental factors responsible for seasonal fluctuations in passion fruit yields. However, there is a shortage of information on the influence of water stress on different components of growth. Objective. To evaluate the controlled deficit irrigation (RDC) technique in the passion fruit cultivation (Passiflora edulis Sims) and its possible effects on plant nutrition, efficient use of water, crop productivity and fruit quality. Materials and methods. An trial was conducted during the years 2013 and 2014 in the Experimental Field of the Institute of Agronomy, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Maracay, Venezuela; under tropical dry forest conditions. The statistical design was randomized blocks with three irrigation treatments (R1= 100 % of Eto (reference evapotranspiration), R2= 66 % of Eto, and R3= 33 % of Eto), in the non-critical phenological phases of the crop, four replications and twelve plants per experimental unit. Flowering and fructification were defined as critical phases. Nutritional variables (N, P, K, Ca and Mg content in leaf tissue, and N, K and Ca content in sap), production efficiency (efficient water use, kg fruit plant-1 and kg fruit ha-1) and fruit quality ( physical and chemical variables) were evaluated. Results. The application of RDC did not affect the nutritional variables or the crop yield. As regard to fruit quality, only significant differences were presented for percentage (%) of peel and juice, however, the values with R2, the values were not limiting in both variables. Conclusion. The restriction of the water supply in non-critical phases did not affect the agronomic performance of the plant.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: soil water deficit
  topic: keywords
subject: evapotranspiration
  topic: keywords
subject: water supply
  topic: keywords
subject: Passiflora edulis
  topic: keywords
creator: Gustavo Adolfo Rodríguez-Yzquierdo
creator: Carmen Amalia Basso-de-Figuera
creator: Gabriel Díaz Reyes
creator: Rommel Igor León-Pacheco
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Gustavo Adolfo Rodríguez-Yzquierdo, Carmen Amalia Basso-de-Figuera, Gabriel Díaz Reyes, Rommel Igor León-Pacheco (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-04-16
publication date: 2020-04-16
starting page: 405
ending page: 418
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i2.39647

Production and quality of Tithonia diversifolia and Sambucus nigra high andean colombian tropic
type: item
description: Introduction. Among the limitations of the livestock systems of the Colombian high tropic is fodder seasonality. The use of silvopastoral systems could be a strategy to maximize food production and guarantee a supply of nutrients throughout the year. Objective. To evaluate in Tithonia diversifolia and Sambucus nigra established in a silvopastoral system, the effect of two ages and cutting heights on morphometric, production, and nutritional quality variables. Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the Obonuco Research Center of the Corporacion Colombiana de Investigacion Agropecuaria (AGROSAVIA) (Pasto, Colombia) between January and November 2018. A random block design was established in factorial arrangement with four treatments (two ages and two cutting heights) for each species (T1:60 days*20 cm, T2:60 days*50 cm, T3:80 days*20 cm, T4:80 days*50 cm for T. diversifolia and T1:60 days*30 cm, T2:60 days*50 cm, T3:90 days*30cm, T4:90 days*50 cm for S. nigra). Results. The productive variables showed significance in T. diversifolia with higher dry matter (DM kg/bush) at 80 days (30.6 ton ha-1 year-1) and S. nigra at 90 days (14.4 ton ha-1 year-1); the number of branches and shoots showed higher values in T4 for T. diversifolia (127.10 branches/bush and 819.65 shoots/bush). The nutritional quality of T. diversifolia and S. nigra was significantly higher at 60 days; with 26.73 % and 26.25% crude protein, digestibility of 75.45 %, and 76.28 %, and net lactation energy of 1.58 and 1.60 Mcal kg-1 DM, respectively. Conclusion. Biomass production (DM) and resurgence capacity increased when harvested at 80 days in T. diversifolia and 90 days in S. nigra; however, a better nutritional quality was presented at cutting ages of 60 days in the high tropic of Nariño, which evidenced its productive potential for cattle feeding.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: silvopastoral systems
  topic: keywords
subject: forages
  topic: keywords
subject: food
  topic: keywords
subject: age
  topic: keywords
subject: height
  topic: keywords
creator: Carolina Guatusmal-Gelpud
creator: Laura Dayana Escobar-Pachajoa
creator: Diego Hernán Meneses-Buitrago
creator: Juan Leonardo Cardona-Iglesias
creator: Edwin Castro-Rincón
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Carolina Guatusmal-Gelpud, Laura Dayana Escobar-Pachajoa, Diego Hernán Meneses-Buitrago, Juan Leonardo Cardona-Iglesias, Edwin Castro-Rincón (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-01-01
publication date: 2020-01-01
starting page: 193
ending page: 208
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.36677

Detection of the 35S promoter by real-time PCR as a transgenicity indicator in food and Gossypium sp.
type: item
description: Introduction. Genetically modified crops (GMC) are of particular interest due to their impact on the global economy. Therefore, as a general concern, many countries have established some regulations in regards to genetically modified organisms (GMOs). In Costa Rica, the cultivation of GMOs has been practiced since 1991; however, there´s a lack of studies that monitor the execution and compliance with the biosafety regulations. Objective. The objective of the present study was to identify the presence or absence of transgenicity in processed foods for human and animal consumption, as well as in cotton seeds. Material and methods. The real-time PCR technique was used to target the 35S promoter sequence, derived from the cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV), as a marker to detect the presence of transgenes in processed foods for human and animal consumption as well as in wild or cultivated cotton seeds collected nearby a GM cotton farm in May 2017. Results. In the analyzed samples there was a high incidence of an 82 bp fragment, corresponding to the 35S promoter sequence, being absent only in organic corn crops and their derivatives (tortillas, corn powder). Results suggest the presence of GMO traces in the Costa Rican food market, additionally it reveals the urgency of implementing adequate labeling for food traceability. Furthermore, the presence of transgenic cotton in the vicinity of a GM cotton farm was identified, suggesting the relevance of surveillance in aspects of biosafety and genetic manipulation of crops. Conclusion. The presence of traces for GMOs in Costa Rican processed food, demonstrates the importance of continuing this monitoring to provide enough elements for a critic discussion about food traceability and potential transgene flow into wild plant material.
subject: Technical Notes
  topic: section
subject: genetically modified organisms
  topic: keywords
subject: SYBR green
  topic: keywords
subject: transgenic food
  topic: keywords
subject: Gossypium
  topic: keywords
subject: Costa Rica
  topic: keywords
creator: Karen Oviedo-Bolaños
creator: Jaime García-González
creator: Stefany Solano-González
creator: Claudio Martínez-Debat
creator: Carolina Sancho-Blanco
creator: Rodolfo Umaña-Castro
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Karen Oviedo-Bolaños, Jaime García-González, Stefany Solano-González, Claudio Martínez-Debat, Carolina Sancho-Blanco, Rodolfo Umaña-Castro (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-01-01
publication date: 2020-01-01
starting page: 209
ending page: 221
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.37151

Productive characteristics of forage crops for supplementation in milk production systems, Nariño, Colombia
type: item
description: Introduction. Grass is the main source of feed for ruminants, however, it is not able to provide the nutrients required for its maintenance and productivity, added to this, in the high tropics is very noticeable the seasonality of fodder production, so it is very important to know other feeding alternatives. Objective. Characterize and evaluate ten forage crops as alternative sources of supplementation in milk production systems in the high tropic of Nariño. Materials and methods. The study was carried out in three localities (L1, L2 and L3) representative of the milk basin of the department of Nariño between november 2016 and september 2017. A Random Complete Blocks (BCA) design was used with ten treatments Vicia faba (espadrille), Vicia faba (red), Vicia faba (common), Zea mayz var. ICA V-305, Raphanus sativus L., Beta vulgaris, Avena sativa var. Cayuse, Phalaris sp., Medicago sativa L. var. moapa, Medicago sativa L. var. 10 10, three repetitions and comparison of averages to 0.05. A the time of harvest it was estimated: green forage yield and dry matter, crude protein (PC), neutral detergent fibre (FDN)), acid detergent fibre (FDA), lignin, hemicellulose, dry matter digestibility, and net lactation energy (ENL). Results. The outstanding species were the bean (the three varieties) and fodder beet for its yield and nutritional quality, which presented values between 7.48 and 20.24 % for PC and 1.14 and 1.49 Mcal kg-1 for ENL. Differences between treatments were presented for each locality, both in productive and nutritional variables. Conclusion. The forage species with the highest productive yield and nutritional quality were the three bean varieties (red, common, and espadrille) and beet.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: green forage
  topic: keywords
subject: dry matter
  topic: keywords
subject: infrared spectroscopy
  topic: keywords
subject: nutritional quality
  topic: keywords
creator: David Felipe Nieto-Sierra
creator: Diego Hernán Meneses-Buitrago
creator: Sonia Patricia Morales-Montero
creator: Filadelfo Hernández-Oviedo
creator: Edwin Castro-Rincón
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 David Felipe Nieto-Sierra, Diego Hernán Meneses-Buitrago, Sonia Patricia Morales-Montero, Filadelfo Hernández-Oviedo, Edwin Castro-Rincón (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-01-01
publication date: 2020-01-01
starting page: 177
ending page: 192
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.36596

Pea production and commercialization in the department of Nariño-Colombia
type: item
description: Introduction. Traditional agricultural production systems prevail in the southern region of Nariño, however, the area harvested from transitory potato, corn and beans crops has been decreased. To address this problem, pea planting has been strengthened, which is marketed in local and regional markets. The department of Nariño is the first pea producer in Colombia, and in 2018, 9425 ha were reported, with an average yield of 1.19 t ha-1. The farmers in the study area are traditional and show technical limitations of production and commercialization. Objective. The objective of the investigation was to analyze the production and commercialization of peas in the department of Nariño. Materials and methods. The research was descriptive and allowed to establish costs, production volumes, planting times, product characteristics, prices, and marketing during 2012. The target population included producers, municipal intermediaries, wholesalers and retailers, and association leaders located in the pea-producing municipalities. Results. The Andean variety was the most sown, the post-harvest losses were 52 %, the prices vary due to the seasonality of production, and the greater volume of production was channeled through intermediaries. Conclusions. The production and commercialization of peas in Nariño presents difficulties that requiere sowing planning to balance production volumes, access development credit, train and organize farmers, and foster strategic alliances to guarantee conditions in the value chain.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: production costs
  topic: keywords
subject: wholesale intermediaries
  topic: keywords
subject: price variation
  topic: keywords
creator: Francisco Javier Torres-Martínez
creator: Carlos Nelson Rivadeneira-Miranda
creator: Álvaro José Castillo-Marín
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Francisco Javier Torres-Martínez, Carlos Nelson Rivadeneira-Miranda, Álvaro José Castillo-Marín (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-01-01
publication date: 2020-01-01
starting page: 129
ending page: 140
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.36776

Herd management information systems to support cattle population research: the VAMPP® case
type: item
description: Introduction. Livestock information systems, besides being indispensable for the daily management of the herd, can serve as a basis for research at the population level. Objective. The objective of the study was to analyze the role of the VAMPP® system as a source of information for cattle population research over 32 years of evolution in Costa Rica. Materials and methods. A statistical analysis of the system database (VAMPP®) covering the period between 1987 and 2018 was carried out. Trends in the dissemination and adoption of the system were evaluated according to period, area, production system, and herd size. The use of information for the exploration of trends by breed and area was exemplified. The contribution of the system at the academy level and production of scientific literature was quantified. Results. 2285 herds (88.8 % specialized dairy and 11.2 % dual purpose) were counted with an average of 9.4±7.9 years of follow-up in the VAMPP® system. The areas with greater diffusion were the very humid premontane forest (29 %) and very humid tropical forest (25 %). The average size of the herd was 124±255 adult cows. The system contains records on 404 316 cows, mostly of Holstein (36.3 %), Jersey (24.6 %), and Holstein×Jersey (20.9 %) breeds. The database includes information on 1,249,557 calvings, 16,223,260 records of daily milk production, and 443,108 health events, predominantly related to mastitis (35.6 %) and laminitis (14.1 %). The system has been used for the elaboration of at least 74 investigations leading to academic degrees and the production of 71 scientific articles, mainly related to health and genetic issues. Conclusion. The information obtained from the VAMPP® system has allowed a detailed characterization of the productive performance of local dairy cattle.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: information technology
  topic: keywords
subject: dairy cattle
  topic: keywords
subject: tropical zones
  topic: keywords
creator: Z. Sánchez-Hernández
creator: C.S. Galina-Hidalgo
creator: B. Vargas-Leitón
creator: J. Rojas-Campos
creator: S. Estrada-König
rights: Copyright (c) 2020 Z. Sánchez-Hernández, C.S. Galina-Hidalgo, B. Vargas-Leitón, J. Rojas-Campos, S. Estrada-König (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2020-01-01
publication date: 2020-01-01
starting page: 141
ending page: 156
doi: 10.15517/am.v31i1.37062

Quantification and characterization of waste generated during milking of Jersey cattle
type: item
description: Introduction. Inadequate management and improper disposal of residues generated in dairy farming can cause environmental and sanitary problems. Therefore, it is necessary to obtain information on the quantity and composition of the solid and liquid residues produced during milking. Objective. To determine the quantity and characteristics of residues generated by Jersey cattle during milking activities. Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the dairy unit of the Atlantic Campus of the University of Costa Rica, with a stocking rate of 6 AU/ha and Jersey cows with an average live weight of 396.6 kg per animal. Between May 2022 and May 2023, 39 samplings were carried out to quantify manure generation and the volume of wash water produced in the waiting area after each milking. Moisture, pH, and electrical conductivity were analyzed in manure, while chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), and fecal coliforms were determined in wash water. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis. Results. Average manure production was 2.7 kg per animal, and water consumption reached 686.5 L per day. The effluent showed a high pollutant load, with COD (1931.7 mg/L) and TSS (6951.6 mg/L) levels exceeding the maximum permissible discharge limits by more than fourfold and thirtyfold, respectively. The microbiological load (1.7 × 108 CFU/100 mL) indicated a critical sanitary risk. Conclusions. Milking activities generated residues with high pollutant potential, which limits the direct reuse of wash water and highlights the need to implement management and treatment strategies to reduce environmental risk and promote residue valorization.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: cattle manure
  topic: keywords
subject: agricultural effluents
  topic: keywords
subject: waste management
  topic: keywords
subject: dairy wash water
  topic: keywords
creator: Carlos A. Sánchez-Romero
creator: Saúl Brenes-Gamboa
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Carlos A. Sánchez-Romero, Saúl Brenes-Gamboa (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-15
publication date: 2026-07-15
starting page: 6135ky76
ending page: 6135ky76
doi: 10.15517/6135ky76

Predictive value of soil exchangeable potassium in mycorrhiza-inoculated banana under organic-mineral fertilization in Cuban Cambisols
type: item
description: Introduction. Banana is a multi-cycle crop, with a high potassium (K) demand, and soil K analysis guides fertilization. Mycorrhizal inoculation reduces fertilizer K needs, yet soil-based K recommendations for inoculated systems remain undefined. Objective. To establish a soil potassium threshold for guiding fertilization in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)-inoculated banana crops under organic mineral fertilization. Materials and methods. Two experiments were conducted in Santo Domingo, Cuba, on Eutric Cambisols using the FHIA-18 cultivar. Both followed a randomized block design with four replicates. The first evaluated five organic-mineral fertilization (OMF) doses, with or without Rhizoglomus irregulare inoculation across mother plant and first ratoon cycles, and included measurements of yield, mycorrhizal indicators, foliar NPK concentrations, and soil fertility. The second, conducted across three crop cycles, involved combinations of OMF doses, Canavalia ensiformis as green manure, AMF inoculation, and mineral fertilization. In this experiment, only information about soil fertility and relative yield was used. Statistical analyses included ANOVA, while critical thresholds were identified using Cate-Nelson successive partitioning. Results. Banana yield increased with OMF dose, and AMF inoculation reduced the OMF requirement by 25 %, associated with higher colonization and improved K uptake. Soil exchangeable K allowed the establishment of soil K-based fertilization thresholds. Inoculation reduced the critical soil K thresholds relative to non-inoculated banana, which reflects enhanced mycorrhizal K acquisition efficiency. The canavalia reduced OMF requirements in inoculated banana but did not alter the soil K index, which remained consistent across inoculated treatments regardless of fertilizer sources. The index functioned as a sufficiency index for K fertilization. Conclusions. The soil K-based index established for AMF-inoculated banana defines the soil K th…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: arbuscular mycorrhizas
  topic: keywords
subject: Canavalia ensiformis
  topic: keywords
subject: fertilizer application
  topic: keywords
subject: Musa spp.
  topic: keywords
subject: soil test values
  topic: keywords
creator: Ramón Rivera Espinosa
creator: Jaime Enrique Simó González
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Ramon Rivera, Jaime Enrique Simó González (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-13
publication date: 2026-07-13
starting page: 6gkv5383
ending page: 6gkv5383
doi: 10.15517/6gkv5383

Water demand of black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) determined by NDVI
type: item
description: Introduction. Water scarcity compromises agricultural productivity and requires precise management tools. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) emerges as an effective alternative for estimating crop coefficient and monitoring crop water needs. Objective. To estimate the water demand of black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) during the flowering phase in the Northeast region of Pará, by means of satellite images to obtain the NDVI and, from it, the estimation of the crop coefficient. Materials and methods. The study was conducted from 2016 to 2018 in the Avelinos community, Santa Luzia do Pará, Brazil, in an area cultivated with black pepper that was 1, 2, and 3 years old. Coordinates were obtained by GPS and Landsat 8 images were used to calculate NDVI. The crop coefficient (Kc) was estimated using the SAFER algorithm based on NDVI, and the crop evapotranspiration (ETc) was calculated by multiplying Kc by the reference evapotranspiration. Results. In areas with 1 and 2 years of cultivation, Kc ranged from 0.22 to 1.00, while in the area with 3 years of cultivation, values ranged from 0.11 to 0.33, which indicates low vegetative vigor and water stress. The estimated water demand for the flowering phase was 2.50, 2.62, and 1.30 L m² day-1 for areas with 1, 2, and 3 years of cultivation, respectively. Conclusions. NDVI-based estimates effectively captured crop water requirements and vegetative vigor across different cultivation ages, revealing that the oldest area exhibits lower water demand coupled with elevated water stress. Given the absence of stage-specific values for black pepper, these estimated parameters provide a fundamental basis for refining irrigation management in Northeastern Pará.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: Agriculture Engineering
  topic: category
subject: Remote sensing
  topic: keywords
subject: crop coefficient
  topic: keywords
subject: precision agriculture
  topic: keywords
subject: irrigation
  topic: keywords
creator: Lailson da Silva Freitas
creator: Felix Lélis da Silva
creator: Raimunda Eliane Nascimento do Nascimento
creator: Élvis da Silva Alves
creator: Maryjane Diniz Araújo Gomes
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Lailson da Silva Freitas, Felix Lélis da Silva, Raimunda Eliane Nascimento do Nascimento, Élvis da Silva Alves, Maryjane Diniz Araújo Gomes (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-10
publication date: 2026-07-10
starting page: zxczt264
ending page: zxczt264
doi: 10.15517/zxczt264

Growth response of cilantro (Coriandrum sativum L.) cultivated hydroponically under contrasting cover and nutrient regimes
type: item
description: Introduction. Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) cultivation in tropical regions faces challenges related to climate variability and hydroponic systems, requiring optimized strategies for irrigation, nutrition, and crop protection to improve productivity. Objective. To evaluate the effect of two types of protective cover (a plastic roof and 30 % red shade mesh) and two levels of nutrient concentration (high and low) on the growth and yield of hydroponically grown coriander during two rainy seasons. Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the Fabio Baudrit Moreno Agricultural Experiment Station in Alajuela, Costa Rica, during the rainy seasons of 2015 and 2016, using a hydroponic system with a stone-powder substrate. Two environmental conditions, protected and unprotected, and two nutrient levels, low and high, were evaluated using a randomized complete block design with split plots. Climatic variables, drainage electrical conductivity, cumulative drainage, nutrient leaching, crop growth, and yield were recorded. In 2015, a transparent plastic roof was used, whereas in 2016, red shade mesh providing 30 % shade was used. Data were analyzed using InfoStat statistical software, applying analysis of variance and Tukey’s test to compare main effects and interactions. Results. In 2015, protection and the high nutrient concentration increased plant height, marketable fresh biomass, dry biomass, and growth rate; additionally, protection reduced cumulative drainage. In 2016, yield response depended on nutrient concentration, with higher values under the high-nutrient treatment and no effect of protection. Conclusion. The high nutrient concentration promoted the growth and yield of coriander. Impermeable protection provided greater benefits than shade mesh because of its ability to reduce water entry, drainage, and nutrient losses.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: soilless culture
  topic: keywords
subject: plastic film mulches
  topic: keywords
subject: artificial shade
  topic: keywords
subject: fertigation
  topic: keywords
subject: tropical agriculture
  topic: keywords
creator: Alejandro Betancourt-Flores
creator: Freddy Soto-Bravo
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Alejandro Betancourt-Flores, Freddy Soto-Bravo (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-08
publication date: 2026-07-08
starting page: 4p60rz78
ending page: 4p60rz78
doi: 10.15517/4p60rz78

Plant-parasitic nematodes in potato crops of Cartago, Costa Rica: variation by altitude and soil
type: item
description: Introduction. Plant-parasitic nematodes (PPN) are a major problem for potato production. Updated information on PPN affecting potato (Solanum tuberosum) in Costa Rica is limited. Objective. To characterize the population genera of PPN in Cartago, with a focus on variations across different altitudes and soil properties. Materials and methods. Between 2015 and 2017, forty-five potato fields from northern Cartago, Costa Rica, were sampled and categorized by altitude: low (1600Ð2100 meters above sea level [m a.s.l.]), medium (2101Ð2600 m a.s.l.), and high (2601Ð3100 m a.s.l.). Composite soil and root samples were collected per field in a zigzag pattern for nematode analysis and soil characterization. Additional soil samples were collected for cyst quantification. Nematodes were extracted using centrifuge sugar-flotation for genus/family identification and the Fenwick method for cyst quantification. Abundance, frequency, and diversity (Hill’s N1 index) were compared across altitudes and sample types. Non-parametric tests (Kruskal-Wallis, Chi-square) and multivariate analyses (PCA, Spearman correlation) evaluated patterns and associations. Results. Thirteen genera/families were identified. Pratylenchus predominated in soil and roots, Meloidogyne showed the highest average density, and Globodera was more abundant at higher altitudes. In addition, nematode genera were associated with soil properties, and the presence of M. incognita and M. hapla was molecularly confirmed. Conclusions. Altitude and soil properties influenced the distribution of PPN in potato fields of Cartago.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: Pratylenchus
  topic: keywords
subject: Globodera
  topic: keywords
subject: Meloidogyne
  topic: keywords
subject: ensamblaje de nematodos
  topic: keywords
creator: Rebeca Sandoval-Ruiz
creator: Lorena Flores-Chaves
creator: Danny A. Humphreys-Pereira
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Rebeca Sandoval-Ruiz, Lorena Flores-Chaves, Danny A. Humphreys-Pereira (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-08
publication date: 2026-07-08
starting page: 5m2jd659
ending page: 5m2jd659
doi: 10.15517/5m2jd659

Fungi associated with sorghum seeds and persistence of Fusarium after surface disinfestation
type: item
description: Introduction. The distinction between superficial colonization and internal infection by Fusarium spp. in sorghum (Sorghum spp.) seeds is limited when using conventional diagnostic methods, hindering the interpretation of inoculum localization. Objective. To characterize the fungal community associated with commercial sorghum seeds and to evaluate the persistence of Fusarium spp. after surface disinfestation as an indicator of the likely localization of the inoculum. Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the Estación Experimental Agropecuaria Paraná of the Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, Oro Verde, Entre Ríos, Argentina, between November 2024 and November 2025. Seeds from thirty commercial hybrids were evaluated using a blotter test without surface disinfestation (200 seeds per hybrid). Fungal genera were identified, and their incidence (%) was recorded. Based on Fusarium spp. incidence, twelve sentinel hybrids were selected and subjected to a blotter test with surface disinfestation (2 % NaOCl for 2 min; 100 seeds per hybrid) to assess pathogen persistence. The analysis was descriptive, based on the comparison of incidence before and after treatment. Results. Sixteen fungal genera were identified, with Alternaria, Fusarium, and Cladosporium as the most prevalent. Fusarium spp. showed variation among hybrids, with an incidence range of 0-78 % in the evaluation without disinfestation. In sentinel hybrids, surface disinfestation resulted in variable reductions, with high values in some hybrids, suggesting the removal of mainly superficial inoculum, whereas in others pathogen persistence was observed after treatment. Conclusion. The combination of blotter test and surface disinfestation allowed the characterization of fungi associated with commercial sorghum seeds and the analysis of Fusarium spp. persistence in relation to its likely localization within the seed. Differential patterns among hybrids allowed the interpretation of inoculum orig…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: Sorghum
  topic: keywords
subject: blotter test
  topic: keywords
subject: seed health
  topic: keywords
subject: plant disease diagnosis
  topic: keywords
subject: fungal community
  topic: keywords
creator: Pablo Daniel Velazquez
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Pablo Daniel Velazquez (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
starting page: 9vxd1n34
ending page: 9vxd1n34
doi: 10.15517/9vxd1n34

Genetic diversity analysis of Indonesian soybean genotypes based on morphological characteristics and SSR markers
type: item
description: Introduction. Soybean is an important crop due to its high protein and oil content. Yellow-seeded varieties are preferred for the production of food products. Analyzing genetic diversity is a crucial step in selecting parental lines for breeding programs. Objective. To analyze the genetic diversity of Indonesian soybean genotypes using morphological characteristics and simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Materials and methods. Field evaluations were conducted in Bogor, Indonesia, from March to June 2023. Morphological data were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and principal coordinate analysis (PCoA). Subsequently, the genotypes were analyzed using 14 SSR markers. Results. PCA revealed that PC1-PC4 explained 72.63 % of total genetic variation. SSR marker analysis demonstrated excellent characteristics such as a high number of alleles and favorable PIC values. Genotypes were grouped into two clusters with a clear genetic distinction. Four genotype pairs exhibited high genetic diversity with favorable morphological traits related to yield and its components. These genotype pairs represent potential parental candidates for soybean breeding programs. Conclusions. Morphological and SSR marker characterizations clearly differentiated Indonesian soybean genotypes and identified genotype pairs with high genetic diversity that were suitable as parental candidates for breeding purposes. Both data analyses provided complementary information, resulting in a more comprehensive assessment of genetic diversity.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: genetic background
  topic: keywords
subject: genetic distance
  topic: keywords
subject: genetic markers
  topic: keywords
subject: morphological characters
  topic: keywords
creator: I Made Tasma
creator: Rosliana Purwaning Dyah
creator: Kunto Wibisono
creator: Habib Rijzaani
creator: Muhammad Ace Suhendar
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 I Made Tasma, Rosliana Purwaning Dyah, Kunto Wibisono, Habib Rijzaani, Muhamad Ace Suhendar (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-06
publication date: 2026-07-06
starting page: 6xn1r608
ending page: 6xn1r608
doi: 10.15517/6xn1r608

Agronomic characteristics of maralfalfa (Pennisetum sp.) seedlings according to sowing and harvesting density
type: item
description: Introduction. Maralfalfa (Pennisetum sp.) stands out for its forage productivity in tropical regions; however, technical evidence regarding its management for propagule production is insufficient. The quality of asexual seed is subject to agronomic factors that determine stem robustness and physiological maturity. Objective. To evaluate the effect of planting density and the number of harvests on the yield and morphometric characteristics of maralfalfa as a seed nursery. Materials and methods. The study was conducted in Huaral, Peru (2018-2019), using a completely randomized design with a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement. Three planting densities (0.50, 0.75, and 1.00 m between plants; 0.80 m between rows) and two harvests (120 days post-planting and 90 days post-cut) were evaluated. Fresh biomass yield (FBY), plant height (PH), stem weight (SW), number of tillers per plant (NTP), stem diameter (SD), and number of stem nodes (NSN) were quantified. Results. No significant interaction between factors was detected (p > 0.05). FBY, SW, and NTP were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the second harvest, with increases of 45 % (1.45 vs. 1.00 kg/plant), 29 % (564.31 vs. 437.30 g), and 10 % (3.79 vs. 3.45 tillers), respectively. The largest SD was obtained with a density of 1.00 m (3.97 cm; p < 0.05), while a density of 0.50 m produced plants with higher PH (3.80 m; p < 0.05) and NSN (15 nodes; p < 0.05). Conclusions. The second harvest optimized yield and tillering due to the consolidation of the root system. For propagule production, the 1.00 m spacing favored robustness, as reflected in stem diameter, whereas the 0.50 m spacing maximized node availability per unit area, allowing differentiated management according to the objective of the seedbed.
subject: Technical Notes
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: elephant grass
  topic: keywords
subject: asexual seed
  topic: keywords
subject: cutting
  topic: keywords
subject: internode
  topic: keywords
creator: Felix Esteban Airahuacho Bautista
creator: Renzo Arturo Paredes Villarreal
creator: Yaneline Nilda Hidalgo-Vasquez
creator: Oscar Enrique Arbañil Huaman
creator: Rufino Maximo Maguiña-Maza
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Felix Esteban Airahuacho Bautista, Renzo Arturo Paredes Villarreal , Yaneline Nilda Hidalgo-Vasquez , Oscar Enrique Arbañil Huaman, Rufino Maximo Maguiña-Maza (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-02
publication date: 2026-07-02
starting page: nkf43w60
ending page: nkf43w60
doi: 10.15517/nkf43w60

Allelopathy of Ageratum conyzoides L. on Bidens pilosa L., Oryza sativa L., and Cucumis sativus L.
type: item
description: Introduction. Ageratum conyzoides is considered an invasive species; nevertheless, its allelopathic potential has been identified. Allelopathic extracts offer a potential alternative to conventional weed control. Objective. To determine the allelopathic effect of extracts of Ageratum conyzoides L. on seedling emergence and initial growth of the weed Bidens pilosa L. and the crops Cucumis sativus L. and Oryza sativa L. Materials and methods. From January to October 2021, in the greenhouse of the Fraijanes Substation, Alajuela, Costa Rica, fresh and dried extracts prepared from A. conyzoides leaves were tested. Each extract was prepared at concentrations of 100 %, 50 %, and 25 % (w/v), and applied to seeds of selected weeds and crops. The number of emerged seedlings, radicle length, shoot and seedling length, as well as biomass of weeds and crops, were determined; a completely randomized design was used. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance and Tukey’s test (for seedling and root length, and biomass) and logistic regression (for emerged seedlings). Results. The allelopathic extracts of A. conyzoides inhibited the emergence of B. pilosa seedlings; the 50 % dose was more inhibitory than the 100 % dose (odds ratio = 3.12) and resulted in shorter root length and lower biomass. In O. sativa, the use of both extracts showed no inhibitory effect on emergence compared with the control. However, the fresh extract resulted in shorter plant length. Neither extract affected C. sativus. Conclusions. A. conyzoides extract showed inhibitory effects on B. pilosa and O. sativa but did not affect C. sativus.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: allelopathic extracts
  topic: keywords
subject: pre-emergent weed control
  topic: keywords
subject: plant allelopathy
  topic: keywords
subject: biological control of weeds
  topic: keywords
creator: Alicia Zumbado-Rodríguez
creator: Mary Pamela Portuguez-García
creator: María Isabel González-Lutz
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Alicia Zumbado-Rodríguez, Mary Pamela Portuguez-García, María Isabel González-Lutz (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-01
publication date: 2026-07-01
starting page: bc16e790
ending page: bc16e790
doi: 10.15517/bc16e790

Quality of Ancho maize populations from Guerrero, Mexico, for pozole-making
type: item
description: Introduction. The Ancho maize race, native to the state of Guerrero, exhibits wide variability that has been insufficiently characterized. Objective. To determine the physical and pasting properties, the quality of flowered kernel, and the content of total soluble phenols and anthocyanins in eleven populations of Ancho maize from Guerrero. Materials and methods. Collections were carried out in five municipalities of the state of Guerrero, Mexico, during the springÐsummer 2022 production cycle. Kernel physical traits were evaluated, and nixtamalization was performed using the traditional method to assess flowered grain quality. Data were analyzed through analysis of variance, followed by Tukey’s multiple comparison test (p ² 0.05). A principal component analysis was also conducted. Results. The populations exhibited wide variability in physical traits, including hundred-kernel weight (47.8Ð99.85 g), endosperm hardness (73.5Ð99 %), color, pasting properties, and phenolic content. Regarding flowered grain quality (FG), populations A67, A65, and A02 stood out for their high yields, higher flowering volume, and short cooking times. In some cases, phenolic content in FG decreased to 79.8 %. The highest retention of total soluble phenols and anthocyanins was observed in population A10Az, characterized by blue-purple kernels. Conclusions. Populations of the Ancho landrace exhibited considerable variability across all evaluated traits. Among them, populations A65, A67, and A03 stood out for their exceptional flowered quality and enhanced phenol retention.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Food Technology
  topic: category
subject: Zea mays L.
  topic: keywords
subject: viscosity profile
  topic: keywords
subject: total soluble phenols
  topic: keywords
subject: cooking time for flowered grain
  topic: keywords
subject: flowering kernel volume
  topic: keywords
creator: Leticia García-Cruz
creator: María Gricelda Vázquez-Carrillo
creator: César del Ángel Hernández-Galeno
creator: Noel Orlando Gómez-Montiel
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Leticia García-Cruz, María Gricelda Vázquez-Carrillo, César del Ángel Hernández-Galeno, Noel Orlando Gómez-Montiel (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-06-30
publication date: 2026-06-30
starting page: 63emb808
ending page: 63emb808
doi: 10.15517/63emb808

Characterization of the symptoms of Thanatephorus sp. in potato (Solanum tuberosum)
type: item
description: Introduction. Thanatephorus sp. is a basidiomycete, with high genetic variability and a broad host range, capable of forming survival structures. Objective. To characterize the symptomatology caused by the phytopathogen Thanatephorus sp. in potato (Solanum tuberosum) crops. Materials and methods. The study was conducted from June to December 2023 at the Plant Pathology Laboratory of the Universidad de Costa Rica, Sede del Atlántico, Turrialba, Costa Rica. Vegetative and reproductive plant tissues were collected from potato plants showing symptoms associated with Thanatephorus sp. The isolates were purified, and the pathogen was cultured on artificial media. The fungus was further purified and inoculated into soil, and applied via foliar spraying to potato plants in order to observe disease symptom development. Leaves, stems, and other plant parts exhibiting abnormal lesions were evaluated. Results. Thanatephorus sp. was primarily isolated from the foliage of potato plants and successfully grew in vitro on PDA (potato dextrose agar). The fungus exhibited branched morphology consistent with basidiomycetes and formed sexual reproductive structures, including basidiospores. Hyphal fusion (anastomosis) was observed, contributing to increased genetic variability of the pathogen. Symptom development began with small necrotic lesions on the leaf blade, surrounded by chlorotic halos; these lesions coalesced, leading to complete foliar tissue necrosis. Lesions were also observed on different plant organs. Survival structures (sclerotia) produced by Thanatephorus sp. were identified. Conclusions. The phytopathogen Thanatephorus sp. causes damage to leaves, stems, and tubers, and produces survival structures that facilitate its dissemination. Its symptomatology may be confused with that of other phytopathogens.
subject: Technical Notes
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: Basidiomycota
  topic: keywords
subject: Rhizoctonia solani
  topic: keywords
subject: sclerotia
  topic: keywords
subject: anastomosis
  topic: keywords
creator: María Cecilia Aguilar-Zamora
creator: Carlos Sánchez Romero
creator: Francisco Brenes Brenes
creator: Eduardo Granados Brenes
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 María Cecilia Aguilar-Zamora, Carlos Sánchez Romero, Francisco Brenes Brenes, Eduardo Granados Brenes (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-06-29
publication date: 2026-06-29
starting page: a7qk0y46
ending page: a7qk0y46
doi: 10.15517/a7qk0y46

Effect of water depletion on the physical-hydraulic, physicochemical, and agronomic properties of hydroponic pepper and tomato
type: item
description: Introduction. Physical-hydraulic characterization of substrates is critical for designing irrigation strategies aimed at enhancing water and nutrient use efficiency and improving crop performance in greenhouse systems. Objective. To evaluate the effect of three levels of water depletion on the physical-hydraulic and physicochemical properties of the substrate, as well as on growth, yield, and water use efficiency of sweet pepper and tomato crops grown in coconut fiber (coir) under greenhouse conditions. Materials and methods. The study was conducted from August 2020 to January 2021 in a multitunnel greenhouse at the Fabio Baudrit Moreno Agricultural Experiment Station, Alajuela, Costa Rica. Three substrate water depletion levels (Ag11, Ag22 and Ag32) were evaluated in a completely randomized design with three replicates. The response variables included volumetric water content (θ), unsaturated hydraulic conductivity (K(θ)), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), irrigation volume and frequency, leaf area, dry matter, marketable yield, and water use efficiency (WUE). Data were analyzed using the R statistical environment. Results. The Ag11 treatment, characterized by more frequent irrigations with lower volumes, maintained adequate moisture, stable EC, and higher K(θ), which promoted greater vegetative and reproductive growth, as well as high water use efficiency (WUE). The Ag22 treatment achieved yields and WUE values equivalent to those of Ag11, with lower irrigation frequency but higher volume irrigations, without increasing EC to critical levels. The Ag32 treatment significantly reduced growth, yield, and WUE, without raising EC to critical levels, showing a similar irrigation frequency to Ag22 but with a higher applied volume. Conclusions. The Ag11 treatment represented an equilibrium among aeration, water retention, and hydraulic and electrical conductivities, as evidenced by stable yields and efficient water use.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agronomy
  topic: category
subject: coir
  topic: keywords
subject: deficit irrigation
  topic: keywords
subject: water use efficiency
  topic: keywords
subject: unsaturated hydraulic conductivity
  topic: keywords
subject: electrical conductivity
  topic: keywords
creator: Alejandro Betancourt-Flores
creator: Freddy Soto-Bravo
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Alejandro Betancourt-Flores, Freddy Soto-Bravo (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-06-25
publication date: 2026-06-25
starting page: 9vvdjh52
ending page: 9vvdjh52
doi: 10.15517/9vvdjh52