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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Repellent effect of essential oils on the mite Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae)
Introduction. Various plant extracts are used in agriculture to reduce the impact of arthropod pests. However, few studies describe the toxic or repellent action of cinnamon, citronella, and ginger essential oils on populations of phytophagous mites such as Tetranychus urticae. Objective. To evaluate the repellent effect of commercial grade essential oils of cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), citronella (Cymbopogon winterianus), and ginger (Zingiber officinale) on a population of the mite Tetranychus urticae on sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum) plants under in vitro conditions. Materials and methods. The research was conducted between October and November 2023 at the Acarology Laboratory of the Crop Protection Research Center (CIPROC) of the School of Agronomy, University of Costa Rica, located in San José, Costa Rica. Four concentrations (1 %, 2 %, 3 %, and 4 %) of each essential oil (cinnamon, citronella, and ginger) were tested at a volume of 333 µL per leaf. To quantify their repellent effect, a choice test using paper bridges was employed. Evaluations were performed 24 and 48 hours after application. A randomized complete block design was used, and data were analyzed with a generalized linear model. Results. The three oils and their concentrations showed repellent activity above 60 %, except for citronella oil at 2 %. Higher concentrations did not always result in greater mite repellency, although this pattern varied among oils. Conclusions. Cinnamon, citronella, and ginger essential oils have repellent properties against Tetranychus urticae, demonstrating their potential as an alternative for the management of this pest.
Copyright (c) 2026 Manuel Quirós-Monge, Iván León-González, Pamela Murillo-Rojas (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Rendimiento y valor nutritivo del forraje en genotipos de leguminosas arbustivas en el Caribe Colombiano
Introduction. Forage legumes complement the forage offer and the protein content in grass-based cattle feed; however, there is little availability of these species adapted to the conditions of the dry colombian Caribbean. Objective. To evaluate the production and quality of forage from shrub legume genotypes during the rainy and dry seasons of the year in the colombian dry Caribbean. Materials and Methods. Dry forage production (PFS; kg ha-1) was measured and nutritional value was estimated by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in two genotypes of Leucaena diversifolia (LD15551, LD21242), one of Cratylia argentea (CA2238) and in Leucaena leucocephala cv Cunningham (control) during the rainy and dry seasons of 2018 and 2019. Analysis of variance was performed to determine the effect of species, season and its interaction under a randomized completed block design with a factorial structure. Results. The control presented the highest DFY with 1288.9 kg (p < 0.05; average seasons), the highest crude protein contents (CP; 24.7 %, p < 0.05) and dry matter digestibility (DMD; 73.7 %, p < 0,05) in the rainy season compared to the other materials. In CA2238 the highest neutral detergent fiber content (NDF) was observed with 45.9 % (p < 0.05; average seasons) and the lowest gross energy contents (GE; p < 0.05) in the rainy season and in the dry season (4.15 and 4.09 Mcal kg-1 DM). Conclusion. Differences were observed in forage production associated with the species and in most of the quality components evaluated associated with the species and time of year in which L. leucocephala showed the highest yield and similar quality to other genotypes.
Copyright (c) 2026 José Edwin Mojica-Rodríguez, Guillermo Antonio Garay-Oyola, Esteban Burbano-Erazo (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Applied approach to entomology during the last forty-years in Panama
Introduction. Insects are associated with human communities, with positive and negative impacts within each society. This aspect is the basis of the study of insects as a science called entomology, which involves the development of various branches. Due to the social and economic importance of this science in various areas of Panamanian society, a significant development has been achieved during the last forty years. Objective. To determine the branches of entomology applied in Panama during the last four decades. Development. The development of entomology in Panama focused on promoting general, agricultural, veterinary, medical, and forensic entomology through the development of research, teaching, and the establishment of the necessary foundations to promote science. Conclusions. Five branches, including general, agricultural, veterinary, medical, and forensic entomology, constituted the cornerstone and the impetus for the development of entomology as a science for forty years at the service of Panamanian society, justified by social needs related to health, food, and the economic aspects. In recent years topics such as the environment, climate change, and sustainability have also been included.
Copyright (c) 2023 Randy Atencio-Valdespino, Rubén Collantes-González (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Does the oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) generate a negative impact on the soil? A review
Introduction. Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) is one of the perennial monocultures that has spread to almost a little more than nineteen million hectares in the world. Its expansion has generated social, economic, and political debate in various tropical countries. One of the problems that has been discussed is the impact on the physicochemical, biological, and ecological properties of the soil. Objective. (i) To provide a current overview of the expansion of oil palm cultivation in an area of the Soconusco region, Chiapas, Mexico, (ii) to document the effects caused by oil palm on the physicochemical and biological properties of the soil, and (iii) to present some proposals for management practices to increase the fertility and abundance of soil macroinvertebrates. Development. The search for keywords was carried out in the “topics” section within the “Web of Science” database from the year 2009 to March 2018. Research that relates the cultivation of oil palm with physical parameters, soil chemicals, and biology was consulted. The literature demonstrates the negative effects generated by oil palm monoculture on some physicochemical properties of the soil and the ecology and biology of the edaphic macrofauna. Conclusion. Evidence is show that the poor management of oil palm monoculture has environmental implications. The integration of good sustainable management practices could mitigate damage to the soil.
Copyright (c) 2023 Hermes Pérez Hernández, Marcos Pérez Sato (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Ptaquiloside biotoxin in ferns of the genus Pteridium
Introduction. The ferns of the genus Pteridium are characterized by their wide habitat and adaptive power that allows their establishment in various types of soils and altitudes. They have the ability to produce a toxin called ptaquiloside. Objective. To gather a current body of updated knowledge on the ptaquiloside toxin present in ferns of the genus Pteridium. Development. The ferns of the genus Pteridium produce ptaquiloside biotoxin, especially in young phenological stages and in the fronds. The hydrolysis of this toxin at the biological level generates compounds with cytotoxic and genotoxic properties. Ptaquiloside can produce enzootic bovine hematuria, be deposited in the milk of the animal that consumes it and affects the health of dairy consumers. The biotoxin has an immunosuppressive effect in cattle, which can favor the papilloma virus, and also causes blindness in sheep. It is associated with esophageal and gastric cancer in humans living in areas populated by ferns of the genus Pteridium. The carcinogenic effect of ptaquiloside is generated because it causes DNA alkylation at N3 adenine or N7 guanine, 24 h after ingestion. For the eradication of ferns in pastures, mechanical control, biological control, and chemical control, are the most important. Conclusion. The biotoxin ptaquiloside represents a risk to human and animal health, which can spread to soil, water bodies, and food. More research is needed to take measures to reduce its effects.
Copyright (c) 2023 Massiel Rodríguez-Salazar, Alejandro Chacón-Villalobos (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Banana bunchy top virus: Threat to musaceae in Latin America and the Caribbean
Introduction. Edible musaceae are considered strategic crops in the food security of many countries, and important in their economy and diet. However, they are threatened by various phytopathogenic organisms. Objective. To outline the significant features of Banana bunchy top virus (BBTV) caused by a virus of the family Nanoviridae, genus Babuvirus, which represents a potential threat to the musaseae production in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Development. Musaceae are among the main foods and fruits produced in the world (among the six most important), and their commercialization defines them as the most exported fruits. It is estimated that 47 % of the pathogens that originate emerging and re-emerging diseases of global importance are viruses. Among them, BBTV is the most damaging viral disease for musaceae, with potential economic impact, in addition, it limits the international exchange of germplasm. This systemic pathogen is unlikely to be transmitted by agricultural implements, since it is not present in the soil. Its dissemination only occurs through: a) Insect vector Pentalonia nigronervosa, which spreads it over short distance, and b) by infected propagation material that can distribute it between continents, with devastating effects in all the countries where it has been reported. Conclusions. The introduction of new materials (clones) resistant to Foc TR4 (disease present in America) without proper supervision and quarantine measures, can promote the manipulation of in vitro plants carring the virus, which, when exposed to the action of the insect vector present in LAC, condition the entry and spread of the BBTV in this region (main of exporting countries), whose presence could be catastrophic and cause economic losses, similar to those that have occurred in producing countries that have been affected.
Copyright (c) 2023 Gustavo E. Martínez-Solórzano, Juan Carlos Rey, Carlos Urias, Thierry Lescot, Nicolás Roux, Jesús Salazar, Yamila Rodríguez (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead in imported pet food in Costa Rica
Introduction. The intake of heavy metals can cause health problems in animals. Objective. To determine the concentration of cadmium, mercury, lead, and arsenic in 34 imported balanced foods marketed in Costa Rica for dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, turtles, and ornamental fish. Materials and methods. The content of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) in imported balanced foods for six pets was quantified during the months of May to October 2018. On a random basis, authorized feed stores were visited to purchased ten packages of dog and cat food, five for ornamental fish, four for turtles, three for hamsters, and two for rabbits. The samples were analyzed at the Animal Nutrition Research Center of the Universidad de Costa Rica using atomic absorption spectrophotometry with graphite tube atomizer (As, Cd, Pb) and quartz cells (Hg). Results. The concentrations obtained in the food for dogs and cats, adults and puppies, rabbits, hamsters, ornamental fish, and turtles were for As 0.009, 0.013, 0.003, non-detectable (ND), ND, 0.036, and 0.113 ppm, respectively; for Cd ND, 0.021, 0.022, 0.031, 0.010, 0.037, 0.139, and 0.043 ppm, respectively; for Hg 0.101, 0.078, 0.045, 0.040, 0.031, 0.045, 0.032, and 0.032 ppm, respectively, and for Pb of 0.381, 0.885, 0.573, 0.740, 0.446, 0.732, 0.763, and 0.841 ppm, respectively. Conclusions. The contents of heavy metals in pet foods did not exceed the maximum values allowed for their commercialization. This work increases the information available on the safety of food for ornamental fish, hamsters, turtles, and rabbits, also promotes continuous monitoring strategies, and the understanding of the real potential for accumulation in animals, and its effects on their welfare.
Copyright (c) 2023 Carolina Naranjo-Jiménez, Rodolfo WingChing-Jones (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Multivariate analysis of soils irrigated with aquaculture wastewater
Introduction. Aquaculture wastewater is an important resource that can be used for irrigation of agricultural land. Objective. To evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils with continuous irrigation of aquaculture wastewater and to identify the variables that provide more information in regarding their behavior under irrigation. Materials and methods. The treatments were three agricultural soils, located in the south of the state of Tlaxcala, Mexico, in 2018 soil sampling was performed at a depth of 0-30 cm and nine replicates to determine: pH, organic matter, electrical conductivity, nitrate, ammonium, total N, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, texture, apparent density, and microbial activity, with which a principal component analysis (PCA) was applied. Results. Irrigation with aquaculture wastewater increased the concentration of phosphorus, potassium, calcium, ammonium, and nitrates. Through linear correlation analysis and PCA, it was obtained that the first principal component explained 76 % of the total variance, associated with pH, organic matter, sand, total N, potassium, magnesium, and ammonium, while the second component explained 23 % of the total variance, linked to phosphorus and adsorption by the exchange complex provided by the clay. Conclusion. Irrigation with aquaculture wastewater improved soil fertility and with the principal component analysis (PCA) phosphorus, clay particle, and magnesium were identified as indicator variables that will support the management of soils irrigated with aquaculture wastewater.
Copyright (c) 2023 Aldo Iram Leal-Mendoza, Elizabeth García-Gallegos, Oscar G. Vázquez-Cuecuecha, Elizabeth Hernández-Acosta (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Net blotch of barley (Hordeum vulgare), caused by Drechslera teres and its effect on yield
Introduction. Barley (Hordeum vulgare) net blotch (MR) causes yield losses estimated between 23 % to 44 %, as well as its malting quality. Objective. To evaluate over time the evolution of net blotch in different malting barley cultivars with and without application of foliar fungicide, associating it with yield and malting quality. Materials and methods. The trial was carried out during 2017 at the experimental field Universidad Nacional del Noroeste of the Buenos Aires province, in the city of Junín (Bs. As., Argentina) with an experimental block design with a 5x2 factorial arrangement and three repetitions, with randomization within blocks. Factor 1 was the cultivars and factor 2 was the foliar fungicide treatment. The pathometric variables incidence and severity were used to calculate the intensity of the MR and subsequently the area under the disease intensity progress curve (ABCPIE). Results. There was no interaction between cultivars and foliar fungicide application. The application of the foliar fungicide allowed a decrease in the ABCPIE in all the cultivars evaluated. Caliper was significantly associated (R2=0.67; p<0.0001) and inversely proportional to ABCPIE. Conclusions. The temporal evolution of the MR depended on the cultivar. Sinfonia had the lowest ABCPIE compared to the other cultivars evaluated. The application of foliar fungicide significantly reduced the evolution of MR over time. The disease influenced yield components and industrial quality of malting barley.
Copyright (c) 2023 A. Petta, M. Lavilla (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Maize productivity (Diamantes 8843) under different planting densities and nitrogen doses
Introduction. In Costa Rica, maize (Zea mays) is an important component of the population’s diet. However, the planting area has been reduced due to marketing policies and reduced knowledge of agronomic management of the crop. Objective. To analyze the effect of N doses and planting densities on the productivity of maize variety Los Diamantes 8843 in Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Materials and methods. The study was carried out between August and December 2018 at the Santa Cruz Experimental Farm, Universidad de Costa Rica. In a randomized complete block design, three planting densities: 50,000, 57,143, and 66,666 plants/ha and four increasing doses of N: 0, 100, 200, and 300 kg ha-1 were evaluated. Plant height, plant fresh weight, stem thickness, cob quality, nutrient uptake and yield were quantified. An analysis of variance was adjusted for each variable. Results. There was a significant effect of N dose over the variables height, dry weight, number of grains per row, number of ears per useful plot, and nutrient uptake. In general, these variables were higher at high N doses. There was significant effect of planting density on height, number of ears, and nutrient uptake, these variables reached higher values at high densities. Higher efficiency rates were achieved at 100 kg ha-1 and at a density of 50,000 plants/ha. The yield was lower in any of the evaluated densities, when N was not applied. The doses of 100 and 200 kg ha-1 showed the highest yields, regardless of planting density. Conclusion. The dose of 100 kg ha-1 of N and the density of 57 143 plants/ha showed the highest values for the efficiency indices and the highest yield.
Copyright (c) 2023 Wendy Lázaro-Rojas, Jorge Claudio Vargas-Rojas, Edgar V. Vega-Villalobos, Alfredo Alvarado-Hernández, Gilberto Cabalceta-Aguilar, Gabriel Garbanzo-León (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Effect of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Pseudomonas migulae on the growth of gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) seedlings
Introduction. Using plant growth-promoting bacteria is an alternative to integrate into cape gooseberry crop management strategies, through its application in seedling stages, in order to obtain more vigorous seedlings that can tolerate biotic and abiotic stresses under field conditions. Objective. To evaluate the plant growth-promoting activity and endophytic capacity of the rhizobacteria Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Bs006 and Pseudomonas migulae Pf014 inoculated during the seedling stage of cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.). Materials and methods. An experiment was carried out from April to May 2018, in a greenhouse located at the Tibaitatá Research Center, Mosquera, Colombia, with a randomized complete block design and three replications. The rhizobacteria were inoculated individually in the substrate at a concentration of 1 x 108 CFU/mL and were quantified as response variables: dry biomass (g) of root, stem, and leaves, height (cm), leaf area (cm2), and number of leaves, and their endophytism was verified by evaluating the colonization of plant tissue. Results. B. amyloliquefaciens Bs006 stimulated the growth of cape gooseberry seedlings with respect to the control. It showed greater promotion capacity than P. migulae Pf014, since it increased the length of the plant by 34 %, the stem and root growth by 59% and 16 %, respectively. It increased root dry biomass of the root by 178 %, stem by 161 %, and leaves by 96 %. Bs006 was isolated from the interior of the plant tissue, which indicates its capacity as an endophyte in cape gooseberry. Conclusions. The positive response in all the agronomic variables evaluated with the application of B. amyloliquefaciens Bs006 indicates that this bacterium can be validated during the seedling stage of cape gooseberry.
Copyright (c) 2023 Camilo Rubén Beltrán-Acosta, Yimmy Alexander Zapata-Narváez, Duván Albeiro Millán-Montaño, Andrés Díaz-García (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Physicochemical and sensory characteristics of goat and bovine milk chocolates
Introduction. In many countries, cow dairy products represent the majority of the alternatives; however, goat milk has nutraceutical properties that make it an option to be explored. Objective. To evaluate the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of chocolate bars made with different proportions of goat and bovine milk. Materials and methods. From January to December 2016, at the Food Technology School of the Universidad de Costa Rica, three experimental chocolates were made with different proportions of goat and cow milk (100 % bovine milk, 100 % goat milk, and a 50 % mixture of both). For three different batches of each formulation, moisture, fat, viscosity, color, texture, particle size, and overall liking were evaluated, the last one by means of a sensory panel. Results. The lowest percentage of moisture (1.81 %), the lowest average particle size (10 μm) (p²0,05), and the highest percentage of fat (39.68 %) (p²0,05) were obtained in goat milk chocolate. As the percentage of substitution of cow’s milk for goat’s milk increased, the viscosity and particle size decreased (p²0,05). Regarding the color parameters, the cow’s milk chocolate was lighter (luminous). The most liked chocolate was from the bovine milk, but with positive results for all formulations. Conclusions. The substitution of bovine milk for goat milk generated products with appropriate physicochemical and sensory characteristics in all formulations.
Copyright (c) 2023 María Catalina Quirós-Martínez, Alejandro Chacón-Villalobos, María Lourdes Pineda-Castro, Ileana Alfaro-Álvarez (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Microbiological quality of raw sausage commercialized in the Great Metropolitan Area of Costa Rica
Introduction. In Latin America, reports on the microbiological quality of raw chorizo, or raw pork sausage, are limited, however, it is a widely consumed and traditional product. Objective. To determine the microbiological stability of the raw sausage in the Great Metropolitan Area (GAM) of Costa Rica. Materials and methods. Between January and August 2019, microbial shelf-life counts, and contamination indicators were carried out, as well as the detection of three pathogens (Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and Clostridium perfringens) in fifty samples of raw chorizo obtained from butcher shops in the Great Metropolitan Area of Costa Rica. Results. Of the fifty samples analyzed, only one was found to be consumable according to the general parameters of bacterial count (total aerobic count [TAM], fungi and yeasts [HYL], and lactic acid bacteria [BAL]). The main cause of spoilage included a combination of BAL and HYL. In addition, the total coliform counts ranged between 105 and 106 UFC/g. From a safety standpoint, Salmonella spp. was isolated in 16 % of the samples, Listeria monocytogenes in 10 % and Clostridium perfringens was found in a single sample with a count of 5.00x101 CFU/g. Conclusion. Non-heat treated products, such as raw chorizo sold in the GAM of Costa Rica, are products that are highly susceptible to spoilage, which present high levels of contamination and that could behave as a vehicle for pathogens; therefore, it is recommended to improve manufacturing practices to prolong shelf life and guarantee consumer safety.
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Purchase of food by ecommerce in Costa Rica during COVID-19
Introduction. The influence of electronic commerce (EC) on people’s food purchasing decisions has been relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Costa Rica, there is no information available on how this medium has modified the food purchasing and consumption behaviors in Costa Rican families during this health emergency. Objective. To analyze changes in the food purchase and consumption patterns of Costa Ricans that were influenced by the EC during the pandemic. Materials and methods. An online survey using the snowball methodology was carried out in June 2021 in different social networks groups in Costa Rica. Structural equation modeling was used to establish the causes associated with endogenous (trust, convenience, hedonic impulses) and exogenous variables (socioeconomic status, purchase decisions due to COVID-19) that outlined the changes in purchasing habits. The stimuli generated from EC that influenced these purchase decisions were reviewed according to the specific food group. Results. A strong causality was found from the latent variable convenience (β=0.89; p<0.01) for the purchase of food by EC, in addition to little impact (β=-0.35; p<0.01) on food consumption habits, generated by the measures defined to contain the pandemic. The sanitary measures established by the authorities show causality in the general response of the food consumer by EC (NORM_1<0.8; p<0.01), which was low if its estimated value is compared with other motivators in purchase decisions such as convenience due to improvements in quality of life (CO1@0.8; p<0.01) or even trust due to the commitment to quality offered by the website (CF3@0.6; p<0.01). Conclusions. The pandemic promoted an improvement in consumer perception regarding advantageous situations of employing EC to make food purchases.
Copyright (c) 2023 Alexis Villalobos Monge (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Questionnaire: Level of knowledge of the urban population about agroecological foods
Introduction. Food consumption affects the environment, so it is necessary to investigate what level of knowledge the urban population has about the origin of the food they consume. Objective. To design, validate, and determine the reliability of an instrument to assess the level of knowledge that the urban population has regarding agroecological foods. Materials and methods. The work was developed at the Universidad Central de Ecuador in Quito, Ecuador, during the period 2020-2021. The type of research was exploratory-descriptive, with a non-experimental design and stratified non-probabilistic sampling. The content of the instrument was evaluated using the Delphi method with the participation of seventeen experts. Two pilot tests were applied to 370 and 1323 participants. The internal consistency and the homogeneity index were determined using Cronbach’s Alpha. The dimensionality of the construct was established with the Cronbach-Mesbah curve. Construct validity was assessed with factor analysis. Results. The content validity showed a value greater than 75 % of convergence between experts. In the internal consistency validation, Cronbach’s Alpha was 0.9 and the homogeneity index was greater than 0.2. In the study of the dimensionality of the construct, the Cronbach-Mesbah curve indicated that the unidimensionality was fulfilled throughout the instrument. In the construct validity in the factor analysis, it was observed that the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure was 0.753. Bartlett’s sphericity was 0.000 and the factor extraction test was greater than 77 %. Conclusions. The instrument achieved high validity and reliability both in its content assessed by experts, and in its internal consistency, dimensionality, and construct validity performed by statistical methods. The instrument is reliable and can be applied in the urban population.
Copyright (c) 2023 Ramiro José Vivas-Vivas, Jaime Alberto Pazmiño-Mayorga, Jorge David Caicedo-Chávez, Darío Alexander Cepeda-Bastidas, Ivanna Katherine Corro-Alarcón (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Quality of life of coffee growers in the high mountains of Veracruz, Mexico
Introduction. The High Mountain Region (RHM) is the most productive and socioeconomic region for the coffee cultivation in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, and one of the most representative of the sector at the national level. Objective. To determine the quality of life (QL) from the objective and subjective point of view of the small coffee producers (SP) in RHM, Mexico. Materials and methods. One hundred and fifty semi-structured interviews were applied to producers in eleven municipalities located in: Comapa, Coscomatepec, Huatusco, Ixhuatlán del café, Sochiapa, Tenampa, Tomatlán, Totutla, Tlaltetela, Tlacotepec, and Zentla, during 2020. Descriptive statistics and trend measurements were obtained. Results. At objective level the QL was found to be low, but at the farmers’ subjective level, it was determined to be acceptable. In the objective assessment, it was identified that the SP have minimal education (primary), the income is not adequate (they require activities outside the farm with an average net annual income of US $ 416 to US $ 1115), the cost of health has increased (due to the COVID-19 pandemic), and proper nutrition is lacking (19 to 25 meals per month). In the subjective assessment there is insecurity and distrust with the government authorities, however, the producers have adapted to living in adverse socioeconomic contexts, since they value community life, intra-family relationships and their environment (coffee growing), which could be influenced by their own worldview. Conclusion. With or without knowledge of the concept of quality, producers have developed a learned or acquired capacity, both individually and collectively to adapt to the environment. Objectively, the quality of life is considered low, however, the interviewees had a perception of satisfaction both individually and collectively.
Copyright (c) 2023 M. Gasperín-García, Diego Esteban Platas-Rosado, Pedro Zetina-Córdoba, Julio Vilaboa-Arroniz, Francisco Marcos Dávila (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Consumers perceptions about the welfare of farm animals in Colombia
Introduction. Research focused on listening and understanding public attitudes towards farm animal welfare is proliferating globally. Objective. To determine how consumers in Colombia perceive the welfare of farm animals and socio-demographic factors associated with such perceptions. Materials and methods. A descriptive and analytical epidemiological study was done through the implementation of a cross-sectional national online survey, conducted from September to October-2021, to obtain information on the knowledge and attitudes of consumers (≥18 years) in Colombia regarding farm animal welfare, as well as socio-demographic characteristics (sex, age, education, occupation, location, growing-up environment, level of contact with livestock farms, and diet). Logistic and multinomial logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations of demographic factors with the level of importance given to animal welfare (AW), perceptions about needs, behavior, and sentience in farm animals, and perceptions about the state and promotion of AW in Colombia. Results. Responses from 798 participants were included in the analysis, 85.57 % saw AW as a concept that refers to how to treat animals and improve their quality of life. The level of importance given to AW was 9.78±0.85 (scale from 0 to 10) and was associated with words such as health, food, caring, respect, and comfort. Sex, age, education, level of contact with a farm, and growing-up in rural areas significantly influenced the opinions regarding the concept of AW and the promotion of farm animal welfare in Colombia. Conclusion. The participants showed concern about farm animal welfare. The differences found associated with the different socio-demographic factors can be used as a basis for formulating education and empowerment strategies that help modulate changes in the way animals are seen, and what welfare means and what it implies.
Copyright (c) 2023 Fredy E. García Castro, Catalina Medrano-Galarza, Jaime A. Cubides-Cárdenas, Aldemar Zúñiga López, Diego G. Ahumada-Beltrán (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Morphometric of ovaries, follicles, and their relationship with oocyte quality in cattle
Introduction. Studies on the structural characteristics of the ovary associated with the quality of the cumulus-oocyte complex (COCs) in cattle contribute to the definition of strategies to improve reproductive efficiency. Objective. To determine the weight and size of the ovaries, follicle quality, and COCs in Zebu females, in order to establish differences between the right and left ovary. Materials and methods. Between March and July 2017, 52 ovaries were obtained from twenty-six Zebu cows. The ovaries and follicles were weighed and measured. The follicles were grouped into three categories: a) <3 mm (TFI), b) 3-6 mm (TFII) and c) >6 mm (TFIII). The follicles quality was determined by the irrigation-translucency technique (TIT) and the COCs by the characteristics of the cytoplasm and cumulus cells as good (CI), fair (CII), and poor (CIII), and by cresyl brilliant blue test were categorized as BCB+ and BCB-. Results. Ovarian length, width and weight were 2.7 ± 0.6 cm, 1.8 ± 0.5 cm, and 7.0 ± 3 g, respectively, with differences for length and weight between the right and left ovary (p<0.01). The highest number of follicles were obtained in TFI (p<0.05). The 88.56 % of the follicles evaluated were of good quality. A total of 52 % and 44.2 % of COCs were classified as CI and BCB+, respectively. When follicle size and COC quality were considered, it was shown that in the TFI group 22 % were IC, 34 % CII, and 44 % CIII, and in the TFII group 31 % were IC, 21 % CII and 48 % CIII. No differences were observed between left and right ovary. Conclusion. The right ovary presented a greater size and weight, a greater number of follicular structures and a greater number of good quality CCOs.
Copyright (c) 2023 Eliana Neira-Rivera, José Guillermo Velásquez-Penagos, Jaime Antonio Cardozo-Cerquera, José Henry Velásquez-Penagos, Sonia Lucía Gutiérrez-Parrado, Rocío Fenney Herrera-León (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Production and decomposition of leaf litter from forest species in silvopastoral systems, Valle del Sinu, Colombia
Introduction. Traditional livestock production systems generate soil degradation, so it is important to implement silvopastoral systems as an alternative for meat and dairy cattle production. Objective. To quantify the production of leaf litter of perennial woody species (Gmelina arborea - Melina, Tabebuia rosea - Oak, Acacia mangium - Acacia) and the potential contribution of nutrients to the soil (nutrient cycling) within silvopastoral systems. Materials and methods. The production and decomposition of leaf litter of forest species was evaluated in fields planted with a variety of grasses of the genus Brachiaria, in the middle Sinu valley, Colombia, during May to September 2013. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used. The treatments used were Pr= Brachiaria hybrid cv. Mulato II, SSP1= Tabebuia rosea + Brachiaria cv. Mulato II, SSP2= Acacia mangium + Brachiaria cv. Mulato II, and SSP3= Gmelina arborea + Brachiaria cv. Mulato II. Results. The greater production of leaf litter in forest species within the silvopastoral systems was evidenced. The forest species G. arborea had the highest potential nutrient inputs in litterfall with the following descending pattern in kg ha-1: C 4069,6> Ca 96,47> N 62,46> K 37,48> Mg 23,60> P 14,57. Mulato II pasture litter and the forest species G. arborea exhibited higher decomposition rates (k= 1.87 and k=1.77, respectively) than the rest of the species evaluated. Conclusions. The forest species evaluated improved soil quality through a higher leaf litter input and a higher potential nutrient input.
Copyright (c) 2023 Jairo J. Tapia-Coronado, José L. Contreras, Judith Martínez-Atencia, Leonardo López, José L. Rodríguez (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Carbon stock in silvopastoral systems: A study in the Middle Sinú, Colombia
Introduction. Silvopastoral systems play an important role in livestock production, provide benefits to the animal and edaphic components, and offer environmental services such as atmospheric carbon sequestration in the soil and biomass. Objective. To evaluate the capacity of atmospheric carbon sequestration in three systems of different complexities focused on livestock production, in northern Colombia. Materials and methods. The study was carried out at the Turipana Research Center of the Corporacion Colombiana de Investigacion Agropecuaria between 2019 and 2021. The dasometric parameters of the tree/shrub component were evaluated. The aboveground (CBA) and belowground (CBR) biomass of these species were estimated with allometric models. The fallen litter biomass (CLIT) and soil organic carbon up to 30 cm, with readings every 10 cm, were quantified by the combustion method and total accumulated carbon. The design corresponded to complete randomized blocks, with three treatments and four repetitions. The treatments corresponded to two silvopastoral systems (SSP) of different complexity and a grass without trees (Pr). Results. Aerial biomass was higher in the SSP (2.18 ± 1.13, 4.51 ± 3.76 t ha-1 C) than in Pr (0.19 ± 0.09 t ha-1 C). The highest accumulation of CBR (1.16 ± 3.76 t ha-1 C) and CLIT (3.09 ± 2.45 t ha-1 C) occurred in SSP2. The soil organic carbon accumulated (COS) values showed higher accumulation in the first stratum. The COS represented in the three systems more than 70 % of the total contribution in accumulated carbon contribution. Conclusion. Under the environmental conditions of the humid tropical dry forest, silvopastoral systems increased the stock of atmospheric carbon in the soil and biomass. The use of SSP is a strategy in the mitigation of greenhouse gases in the livestock production system.
Copyright (c) 2023 José Luis Contreras-Santos, Cindy Katherine Falla-Guzmán, José Luis Rodríguez, Jeyson Fernando-Garrido, Judith Martínez-Atencia, Lorena Aguayo-Ulloa (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Effects of foliar biofertilization on the Water Use Efficiency in different varieties of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)
Introduction. Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is a little-known crop in the Bolivian highlands as its response to water use efficiency (WUE) in a Walipini-type greenhouses. Objective. To evaluate the behavior of two varieties of basil and the water use efficiency (WUE) in the application of foliar biofertilizer in a Walipini-type greenhouse. Materials and methods. The experiment was installed at the Ventilla Ecological Farm, in the Central Highlands of Bolivia, with an experimental period of 135 days (July 13 to November 25), 2014. A factorial experiment with two factors (varieties: Nufar F1 and Italian Large Leaf) and two levels of foliar biofertilizer (Biol) was used under a completely randomized block design. Results. Through the WUE, specific leaf area, and net assimilation rate relationship, it was observed that basil had a better development in Walipini-type greenhouse (underground greenhouse) since biomass accumulation was not significantly affected. The results showed that the production of basil in this environment using foliar biofertilizer, Biol, differ mainly by the variety rather than by the doses of Biol, showing that Nufar F1 had better development. Conclusion. A significant relationship was observed between Nufar F1 and Italian large Leaf for biomass weight when applying Biol at two different levels. It shows that there does not necessarily have to be a positive and significant relationship between biomass accumulation and WUE, so it is presumed that basil can develops regularly in Walipini-type greenhouses under semi-arid region conditions.
Copyright (c) 2023 Luis Eduardo Huito-Tarquino, Emilio Garcia-Apaza, Eva Conde-Viscarra (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Diversity of soils in areas with the presence of Furcraea sp. in tropical ecosystems
Introduction. The fique, “cabuya” or “mecate” are the common names given to the species of the genus Furcraea that are used for the manufacture of biodegradable fibers. Their industrial and social importance in Latin American countries is significant since it is usually related to family and peasant economies. However, for this taxonomic group, the diversity of edaphic conditions in natural habitats or cultivation sites is unknown. Objective. To physicochemically characterize the soils in the productive systems and natural populations of fique, to determine the aspects and factors that best represent their variability. Materials and methods. The work was developed between 2013 and 2014, in 66 municipalities and 108 villages in 11 departments of Colombia. Passport data was recorded at the 121 sites visited, describing site conditions, including georeferencing. In each locality, soil samples were taken in the first 20 cm of depth and subsequently the following variables were determined: texture, pH, organic matter (OM), P, S, K, Mg, Ca, Al+H, CE, cations of change Ca, Mg, K, Na, cationic exchange capacity (ECEC), Ca, Mg, K, and Na. According to georeferencing, 52 agroecological zones were identified. Results. Populations located between 170 to 2,993 m.a.s.l. were found. The most significant factors were agroecological zone and soil texture. Among them, texture was the factor with the greatest capacity for group formation and represented 60.99 % of the variability of the sampled soils. The variables that most contribute to the variability of the soils were (Ca + Mg) / K, exchangeable Mg, K / Mg, exchangeable Ca, and ECEC. Conclusion. The results obtained for wild and cultivated populations indicate that the different taxa survive in diverse tropical soil conditions. It was found that the exchangeable ions had high discriminating power that could indicate diversity to the different conditions and fertility levels of Colombian soils.
Copyright (c) 2023 Clara Inés Medina-Cano, Luz Adriana Vásquez-Gallo, Álvaro de Jesús Tamayo-Vélez, María Vargas-Arcila, Juan Camilo Henao-Rojas (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Oviposition preference of Orius insidiosus (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) in different herbaceous plants
Introduction. Orius insidiosus is an omnivorous insect with an endophytic oviposition strategy, with a preference for oviposition on plants that guarantee shelter and food. Objective. To evaluate three plant species as oviposition sites for O. insidiosus on Phaseolus vulgaris (Fabaceae), Ipomoea batata (Convolvulaceae) and Portulaca oleracea (Portulacaceae). Materials and methods. The work was carried out in 2020, at the Center for Research and Reproduction of Biological Controllers of the Universidad Autónoma de Nicaragua, León, Nicaragua, León. Cutting 15-cm-long from three plants for O. insidiosus females were used as oviposition substrates: Portulaca oleracea L., Phaseolus vulgaris L., and Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam. The experimental unit (n= 90) consisted of 15 cm long tender cuttings, individually placed in polyethylene cups using thirty replicates per treatment, using the no-choice technique. One pair of O. insidiosus was placed on each cutting. Every 24 h the cuttings were inspected to count the egg laying. Subsequently, the cuttings were removed and checked for five days to count nymphs hatching, and the final weight of the cutting was determined. Results. The highest laying values in P. oleracea cuttings with 5.90 eggs/day per cutting, followed by I. batatas with 4.10 eggs/day, and finally P. vulgaris with 2.13 eggs/day. There was evidence of variability in the posture according to the initial and final weight. The hatching values were lower than those of laying, P. oleracea had the highest hatching average with 4 individuals, followed by I. batatas with 1.5, and P. vulgaris with 0.8. Conclusions. P. oleracea showed a better preference for O. insidiosus regarding egg laying and nymph hatching. It could be validated in the field as a biological control strategy.
Copyright (c) 2023 Conrado Ronaldo Quiroz-Medina, Carlos Iván Real-Baca, Pedro Fernando Silva-Illescas, Luis Francisco Moreno-Mayorga, Bayardo Ortiz-Sáenz, Víctor Johandy Niño-Chavarría (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Morphological/pathogenic variability of Fusarium verticillioides in La Ciénega/Chapala, Mexico and inoculation techniques evaluation
Introduction. Corn ear rot caused by Fusarium verticillioides (F. verticillioides) is one of the most important diseases in the world. In Mexico it causes losses of up to 30 %. The increase in the levels of this disease in the last years requires inspections in producing areas to identify the main strains that damage the grain. Objectives. To determine the morphological and pathogenic variability of F. verticillioides isolates from corn samples from the corn producing area of La Ciénega/Chapala, Mexico, and to identify the best technique for inoculating the pathogen in ears. Materials and Methods. Twenty isolates of F. verticillioides were obtained from samples of corn kernels with disease symptoms. The isolates were used to inoculate, with the use of different inoculation techniques, developing corn cobs (R2) of P-3057 cultivated in Tepatitlán, Jalisco during the Spring/Summer 2019 agricultural cycle under rainfed conditions. The incidence and severity of the disease (SDI) of the isolates and the microscopic morphology of the strains were evaluated. Results. F. verticillioides isolates differed in colony color, mycelial type, abundance, and vegetative mycelial coloration. The incidence and severity were statistically different between F. verticillioides isolates and inoculation techniques tested. Interaction between isolates and inoculation technique was observed. The disease incidence showed values of 82 and 95% with aspersion and toothpick inoculation techniques, respectably. The SDI varied between 8 and 15.5 % with the aspersion and toothpick techniques, in that order. Conclusions. F. verticillioides strains showed variability for pathogenicity and severity of infection. Pathogenicity was related to the inoculation technique used. The toothpick inoculation technique was the one that presented the highest incidence and severity of infection.
Copyright (c) 2023 Norma Y. Zacamo-Velázquez, Javier Ireta-Moreno, Yolanda Salinas-Moreno, Víctor M. Gómez-Rodríguez, Humberto Ramírez-Vega, Raquel Martínez-Loperena (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Molecular identification of root-lesion nematodes, Pratylenchus spp. in agricultural crops from Costa Rica
Introduction. The root-lesion nematodes, Pratylenchus spp., have a wide host range and reduce the yield of different crops. Information on the diversity of Pratylenchus species is scarce in Costa Rica. Objective. To identify the Pratylenchus species associated with 12 crops based on the D3 region of the 28S rDNA gene. Materials and methods. During 2013 to 2015, root samples were collected in Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, and San José in crops of rice (Oryza sativa), black pepper (Piper nigrum), sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum), aster (Aster sp.), coffee (Coffea arabica), banana (Musa paradisiaca), lily (Lilium sp.), gypsophila (Gypsophila sp.), onion (Allium cepa), potato (Solanum tuberosum), strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa), and leather-leaf fern (Rumohra adiantiformis). The D3 region of the 28S rDNA gene from each population was amplified and sequenced. A GenBank Blast Search was performed for each sequence. The phylogenetic relationships were established by Bayesian Inference. Results. Blast Search indicated the presence of P. pseudocoffeae in aster, P. brachyurus in black pepper, P. crenatus in onion and potato, P. hippeastri and P. gutierrezi in sugarcane and coffee, respectively. Pratylenchus bolivianus in leather-leaf fern and potato, P. penetrans in onion, strawberry, gypsophila, and lily, P. zeae in rice and sugarcane, while P. speijeri in banana. The phylogenetic analysis corroborated the Pratylenchus species identity with exceptions of sequences from 1) banana, grouped to P. coffeae complex group, 2) sugar cane, grouped to P. hippeastri complex group 3) onion and potato were related with P. crenatus, in an independent group, and 4) leather-leaf fern and potato were grouped with P. bolivianus with low resolution. Conclusions. Nine genetic groups of Pratylenchus were found, some of those should be verified with other molecular markers to get a conclusive identification.
Copyright (c) 2023 Rebeca Sandoval-Ruiz, Luis Gómez-Alpízar, Danny A. Humphreys-Pereira, Lorena Flores-Chaves (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Seed production of Moringa oleifera Lam varieties according to planting density and successive harvests
Introduction. Moringa oleifera Lam. . it is a deciduous tree with perennial growth ontogeneric to the growth of shrubs. Moringa is the only genus of the Moringaceae family. The main studies of the species olerifera focus on forage production, and very few on seed production. Objective. To evaluate sowing densities and successive harvests for seed production of M. oleifera Lam varieties, in an ecosystem degraded by the seasonal drought in Cauto Valley, Granma province, Cuba. Materials and methods. The study was carried out from 2016 to 2018 in seed banks of the Pastures and Forages Experimental Station (20º 27’ 52.1” N 76º 40’47” W) of the “Jorge Dimitrov” Agricultural Research Institute, Cuba, through a randomized block design in factorial arrangement with four replications, for a total of 64 treatments resulting from the combination of sowing density (4), varieties of M. oleifera (4), and number of harvests (4). The variables considered were: number of seeds per fruit, number of fruits per plant, fruit length, 100-seeds weight, and seed yield. Results. The Criolla and Supergenius varieties had the highest seed yield (p≤0.01) (0.67 and 0.71 t ha-1, respectively), in the second harvest in July 2017, compared to the rest of the harvests and varieties under study. The Supergenius variety provided the highest values in the number of seeds/fruit, number of fruits/plant, and fruits length/plant with 18,23, 32,08, and 49,18 cm, respectively. Conclusion. The varieties of M. oleifera under study had no differences in seed production potential, sowing density had not effect, only successive harvests every six months conditioned a differentiation in seed production.
Copyright (c) 2023 L. Ledea-Rodríguez, D. G. Benítez-Jiménez, Y. Nuviola-Pérez, J. V. Wright-Ramírez, Laura Rubio-Sanz (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
New thilinear hybrid of hard yellow corn for the Peruvian tropic
Introduction. Hard yellow corn (Zea mays L.) is the main source for food processing; therefore, it is necessary to generate hybrids with yields higher than 2.8 t ha-1 and climatic adaptability. Objective. To evaluate and compare the agronomic behavior of five experimental trilinear hybrids of hard yellow corn maize and the Marginal 28T variety in eight tropical Peruvian locations. Materials and methods. The experiment took place in two phases: from March 2018 to March 2019 in four validation plots in San Martin, and from March to December 2019 in four adaptabilities plots in San Martín, Pucallpa, Loreto, and Amazonas. The evaluated variables were: plant and ear height, size and weight of ear, roots lodging, rust resistance, and yield (t ha-1). A randomized complete block design was applied, with a combined analysis of yield genotype x environment interaction with the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction models. Results. The hybrid HTE6 had the highest ear diameter (4.66 cm), ear weight (190, 76 g), number of rows per ear (14.26), grains per row (37.45), total grain weight (156.21 g), and grain yield (7.21 t ha-1). HTE6 showed superior adaptability in Iquitos (9.2 t ha-1) and San Martín (8.1 t ha-1). In the genotype-environmental interaction, it reached 7.18 t ha-1, with the highest stability in the eight localities. Conclusion. Among the five trilinear hybrids and the Marginal 28T variety, the HTE6 had the best agronomic performance and the highest yield in the eight evaluated locations. Thus, it is considered the more suitable trilinear hybrid for the tropical conditions of Peru.
Copyright (c) 2023 Percy Díaz-Chuquizuta, Edison Hidalgo-Melendez, Melbin Mendoza-Paredes, Isaac Cieza-Ruiz, Teófilo Wladimir Jara-Calvo, Ofelia Andrea Valdés-Rodríguez (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Evaluation of productive parameters in guinea pigs raised at high density during growth and fattening
Introduction. The rearing of guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) is key to the food supply and economy of Andean countries such as Peru. However, their productivity may be affected by inadequate management, particularly stocking density, whose impact has not yet been fully evaluated. Objective. To evaluate the productive efficiency of guinea pigs subjected to high stocking densities. Materials and methods. The experiment was conducted at the Small Animals Laboratory of the National Agrarian University La Molina (UNALM), in Lima, Peru, over eight weeks (January to March 2022). A total of ninety improved male guinea pigs of the Cieneguilla-UNALM genotype were used, with an average initial weight of 338.57 g (15 ± 3 days of age). The experimental design was completely randomized, with three treatments: 0.10 m²/animal (T1), 0.066 m²/animal (T2), and 0.050 m²/animal (T3), with three replicates of ten guinea pigs each. The animals were fed ad libitum with balanced feed and forage, and had continuous access to water. The evaluated productive variables were initial and final weight, weight gain, feed intake (daily, weekly, and total), feed conversion ratio, mortality, carcass lesions, visible fat scoring, and carcass yield. Results. Treatment T1 showed the highest weight gain and total feed intake, while T3 exhibited the best feed conversion ratio and the lowest mortality. Carcass yield and visible fat content were higher in T1; however, T3 showed fewer signs of carcass lesions (p < 0.05). Conclusions. Stocking density in guinea pigs did not significantly affect the evaluated parameters. However, the highest density (T3) reduced the incidence of lesions, indicating less competitive behavior among the animals.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mayra Alejandra Livia-Tacza, Jose Luis Cantaro-Segura, Chessyra Ninoska Ticona-Huaroco, Luis Alberto Arapa-Salas, José Antonio Sarria-Bardales (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Adoption of technologies in oil palm cultivation, South-Central Region, Costa Rica
Introduction. In Costa Rica, oil palm (Elaeis guineensis, Jacq.) ranks third in terms of tonnage harvested and leads in terms of planted area. However, there is a lack of studies evaluating the adoption of technologies. Objective. To identify the factors that influence the adoption of technologies by palm oil producers in the South-Central Region of Costa Rica. Materials and methods. A survey was conducted among a sample of 33 producers in the study region from January to December 2023. Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) were used to identify similarities in adoption decisions, which were used to group individuals into three clusters of intensity in technology adoption. These were compared using Kruskal-Wallis and Pearson’s chi-square tests with respect to socioeconomic and productive variables. Finally, the influence of these variables on the intensity of adoption was analyzed using an ordered probit model and the estimation of their marginal effects. Results. A total of sixteen technologies were consulted; on average, people implement five, the most used organic fertilizers (64%) and green manure (64%). Years of farming experience, economic dependents, gender, delivery contract (organization), and farm size were associated with greater adoption of farming technologies. Conclusions. Productive clusters with different levels of technology adoption were identified, conditioned by gender, experience, productive conditions, and organizational links. The units with the highest adoption integrated sustainable practices were more diversified and were more economically dependent on palm cultivation. Being a woman, having more experience, having economic dependents, and having an agro-industrial contract increased the likelihood of technology adoption.
Copyright (c) 2026 Olga Calvo-Hernández, Luz Barrantes-Aguilar, David Gómez-Castillo, Diego Quirós-Badilla (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
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