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Societal Impact Statement: Over the last 50 years, the practice of 'intercropping' (planting a mixture of several crops on the same field) has drawn growing attention in crop science. Given its high yields but low requirement for fertiliser or pesticides, it offers considerable advantages over conventional 'industrial' agriculture. Nevertheless, although research on intercropping has been conducted since the late 19th century, that work became largely invisible after 1945 as the rapid rise of industrial agriculture erased alternative approaches from view. Since the 1970s, however, intercropping and other alternatives have reappeared on the research agenda as the damaging impacts of industrial agriculture have become evident. Summary: Intercropping has long been of interest in agro‐ecology. Indeed, as the first generation of (English‐speaking) agro‐ecologists saw it, research on intercropping began in the 1970s and 1980s just as the field was beginning to emerge. Although the evidence confirms a rapid increase in such work from the 1970s, however, what nearly all agro‐ecologists then overlooked was the existence of two older traditions of work dating from the late 19th century. The aim of this paper is to explain why early agro‐ecologists were unaware of previous work. The history of research on intercropping in both the English‐ and German‐speaking worlds was traced using the journal literature as well as textbooks of agronomy. What this survey revealed is that in Europe and North America, agronomists had been working on intercropping since the 1890s, and during the interwar period and into the 1950s, the practice attracted considerable attention from colonial agronomists. Although this early work was in the public domain during the 1970s, however, few agro‐ecologists noticed it. There are various reasons why the first generation of agro‐ecologists might have known about but chose to ignore earlier work on intercropping. But more likely is that most members of that generation were simply unaware of the older work. For the forgotten history of intercropping, research appears to be just one aspect of a more general phenomenon during the 20th century in which a wide variety of 'alternative' cultivation practices were marginalised after 1945, only to re‐emerge from the 1970s as the social and environmental consequences of industrial agriculture came under attack. Over the last 50 years, the practice of 'intercropping' (planting a mixture of several crops on the same field) has drawn growing attention in crop science. Given its high yields but low requirement for fertiliser or pesticides, it offers considerable advantages over conventional 'industrial' agriculture. Nevertheless, although research on intercropping has been conducted since the late 19th century, that work became largely invisible after 1945 as the rapid rise of industrial agriculture erased alternative approaches from view. Since the 1970s, however, intercropping and other alternatives have reappeared on the research agenda as the damaging impacts of industrial agriculture have become evident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of climate change and especially the associated climate variability require farmers to adjust to increasing frequencies of extreme events. In the agriculturally highly productive Romanian Plain, the frequency, intensity, and duration of heatwaves and drought have increased over the past 20 years. Although recent surveys revealed farmers' awareness of climate change and enumerated a number of farm adaptation measures in the Romanian context, a systems approach to adaptation that allows conclusions on farm vulnerability and adaptive capacity is missing. Here, we use archetypal analysis to elucidate and characterize for the first time the types of adaptation responses of arable farmers in southern Romania. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 farmers managing 51,500 ha located across the southern lowlands of Romania, selected for their diversity of management approaches. Farmers were asked about experienced climatic disturbances, crop production losses during the most extreme events over the past 5–10 years, and the adaptation measures they implemented over that period of time. In addition, structural characteristics of the farm were recorded. The adaptation measures were classified and mapped on the efficiency, substitution, and redesign gradient used to classify sustainability stages. Results revealed three archetypes of adaptation, consisting of measures at field and farm level ranging from predominantly efficiency-enhancing ones (e.g., crop choice and management and risk insurance) to complete farm redesign involving agrotechnical and financial management changes. Structural farm characteristics did not explain differences between farms in their association with one of the archetypes. Our approach and results show for the first time both the need for strengthening farmer-level support in one of Europe's key food production areas and the lessons that can be drawn from the outlier adaptation examples. Current European and national policies offer opportunities for farmer organizations in Romania to make these conclusions actionable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of trematodes among ruminants and their snail vectors is a major concern across various agro-ecological regions of Ethiopia. Trematodes pose significant threats to animals, causing considerable economic losses and impacting public health. In this study, we have investigated 784 ruminant fecal samples, and 520 abattoir samples, alongside the collection and identification of snail vectors from various agro-ecological regions. Fecal examinations revealed Fasciola, Paramphistomum and Schistosoma species infected 20.5% (95% CI: 17.6, 23.8), 11.7% (95% CI: 9.6, 14.2), and 6.3% (95% CI: 4.1, 9.1) of the animals, respectively. The overall prevalence of trematodes among ruminants was 28.8% (95% CI: 25.7, 32.1%), with 6.0% (95% CI: 4.3, 7.7) showing mixed infections. Fasciola was more prevalent in Asela (26%) compared to Batu (19%) and Hawassa (11.5%), while a higher proportion of animals in Batu were infected with Paramphistomum. Schistosoma eggs were detected only in Batu (12.5%), but not in other areas. Sheep and cattle exhibited higher infection rates with Fasciola, Paramphistoma, and Schistosoma compared to goats. Significant associations were observed between trematode infections and risk factors including agro-ecology, animal species, body condition score, and deworming practices. About 20.8% and 22.7% of the slaughtered animals harbored Fasciola and Paramphistomum flukes, respectively, with a higher prevalence in Asela and Hawassa abattoirs compared to Batu abattoir. Additionally, a total of 278 snails were collected from the study areas and identified as lymnae natalensis, lymnae trancatula, Biomphalaria pffiferi, Biomphlaria sudanica, and Bulinus globosus. In conclusion, the study highlights the widespread occurrence of trematode infections, emphasizing the need for feasible control measures to mitigate their economic and public health impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated soil characteristics that have the most significant influence on basal stem rot (BSR). Surveys and soil sampling were carried out at the research site located in Lampung, Indonesia in June 2021. The sampling was conducted on three categories of land with mild, moderate, and severe disease incidences. A total of 20 soil-related variables, including physicochemical properties as well as disease incidence and severity, were analyzed through the Pearson correlation and Lasso regression. The results showed that four soil chemical properties, namely Mg, K, Na, and base saturation, were negatively correlated with the incidence and severity of BSR, while Mn had a positive correlation. The Lasso regression equation model that affects the disease incidence is Y = 92,19-20,77Mg-6,93K+0.19Mn (%Dev = 60%), whereas the equation affecting the disease severity is Y=98,46-4,25pH-23,12Mg-3,32K-0,07KB+0.03Mn (%Dev=62%). These results can guide decisions regarding BSR control in oil palm plantations. To reduce the disease intensity in oil palms, fertilization recommendations must pay attention to soil chemical properties, such as an increase in pH and cationic base factors (Mg, K, and BS) and a decrease in Mn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollination is a crucial ecosystem service contributing to global food security. Moringa (Moringa oleifera) is an economically important tropical crop, mostly cultivated by smallholder farmers.Well‐established approaches of planting flower‐rich patches used in temperate agroecosystems for pollination enhancement were adapted to tropical moringa systems. Based on existing evidence, we hypothesised that floral interventions would improve flower visitor diversity and abundance in the crop, thereby increasing pollination services and moringa yield and quality.We used standardised methods to survey flower visitors on moringa and assess economically relevant measures of crop yield quality and quantity. We selected 24 moringa fields in Tamil Nadu, India, to compare fields with and without floral interventions. We planted red gram, Cajanus cajan as a border crop, and marigold, Tagetes erecta as an intercrop on moringa fields to enhance floral resource availability for pollinators. These interventions were co‐designed with local farmers to ensure additional benefits to their community.We found that flower visitor abundance and species richness were significantly (50% for abundance and 33% for species richness) greater in fields with floral interventions compared with control fields. We also found that the percentage of flowers that resulted in harvestable fruits were significantly (30%) greater in fields with floral intervention. Production benefits in yield and quality were significantly positively correlated with the abundance and species richness of flower visitors.Synthesis and applications. Our results provide clear evidence that floral interventions in the form of intercropping and border cropping can enhance pollinator communities and services they provide in tropical smallholder systems. These findings underpin a practical management option for farmers to enhance flower visitor communities and pollination services, which can potentially also provide additional co‐benefits to farmers, improving livelihoods and sustainable production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The socio-ecological crisis is an issue that has become crucial today. The predominant agro-food model has led to the homogenization of food production practices. This has had repercussions on the health of the hydrological cycle and the soil, caused by deforestation, intensive agriculture, grazing, extensive cattle ranching, depletion of fossil fuels and excessive water use. The transition to agroecology is essential to address the climate crisis and biodiversity loss, which requires deep reflection and a change in the way food is produced and consumed. The synergy between agriculture and biodiversity requires policy frameworks that prioritize the communal and the health of the land, as well as the participation of communities in territorial decision-making. Collective awareness of the importance of food for the health of humanity and the earth's life system must be recovered, and agroecological restoration can be an encouraging scenario for reorganizing agricultural landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study emphasizes fungi as an important tool against heavy metals and how isolated fungal species can be used to create a successful strategy for the bioremediation of chromium and arsenic-contaminated sites/soils. Globally, heavy metal pollution is a serious issue. In the current investigation, contaminated sites were chosen, and samples could be taken from various localities of Hisar (29.1492° N, 75.7217° E) and Panipat (29.3909° N, 76.9635° E), India. A total of 19 fungal isolates were obtained from the collected samples through the enrichment culture technique using PDA media supplemented with Cr as chromic chloride hexahydrate (50 mg/L) and As as sodium arsenate (10 mg/L) and the potential of fungal isolates to be used for the removal of heavy metals was examined. The isolates were screened for minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) exhibiting tolerance capabilities, and the four best isolates C1, C3, A2, and A6 with the highest MICs (>5000 mg/L), were chosen for further investigations. To use the chosen isolates in the remediation of heavy metals (Cr and As), the culture conditions were optimized. The fungal isolates C1 and C3 estimated the highest removal of 58.60% and 57.00% at 50 mg/L chromium concentration, while the isolates A6 and A2 recorded the highest removal efficiency of 80% and 56% at 10 mg/L arsenic concentration under optimal conditions. Finally, the chosen fungal isolates C1 and A6 were molecularly identified as Aspergillus tamarii and Aspergillus ustus, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interactions among plants have been long recognized as a major force driving plant community dynamics and crop yield. Surprisingly, our knowledge of the ecological genetics associated with variation of plant–plant interactions remains limited. In this opinion article by scientists from complementary disciplines, the international PLANTCOM network identified four timely questions to foster a better understanding of the mechanisms mediating plant assemblages. We propose that by identifying the key relationships among phenotypic traits involved in plant–plant interactions and the underlying adaptive genetic and molecular pathways, while considering environmental fluctuations at diverse spatial and time scales, we can improve predictions of genotype-by-genotype-by-environment interactions and modeling of productive and stable plant assemblages in wild habitats and crop fields. A better understanding of plant community diversity, productivity, and stability relies on deciphering the ecological genetics and molecular bases of plant–plant interactions in wild and crop species, which range from competitive to positive interactions. Compared with other categories of biotic interactions, we have limited knowledge of the genetics associated with natural variation of plant–plant interactions. Interdisciplinary projects are needed to explore the genetic and molecular underpinnings of key interacting phenotypic traits involved in plant–plant interactions, at complementary observation scales in a complex biotic and abiotic environment. Our future knowledge on the genetics of plant–plant interactions can fuel models aimed at predicting the best performing and/or stable plant assemblages, leading to alternative and eco-friendly agricultural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The leaf economics spectrum (LES) is an ecophysiological concept that describes the trade-offs between leaf structural and physiological traits. It has been extensively studied across various scales. However, the coordination hypothesis has rarely been tested at the intraspecific scale, especially in crops, for understanding yield increases or predicting evolutionary trajectories. Here, we first tested the relationships among leaf traits and examined the genetic coordination among 209 wheat genotypes. Compared to non-crop grass species, wheat is a fast-growing species, and tends to have a higher value of photosynthetic rate, leaf nitrogen concentration and leaf respiration rate at a given leaf mass per area, although it does align with the predicted direction of the "fast-slow" spectrum. We conducted a principal component analysis (PCA) to compare different traits within wheat. The first axis from PCA (ranging from slow to fast of plant economic investment) is significantly positively associated with the agronomic traits, especially grain yield (R 2=0.11, P <0.001). Partially independent changes in leaf nitrogen content and leaf mass per area may allow crops to maximize photosynthetic rates without sacrificing leaf lifespan. The results reveal that some loci are simultaneously associated with different traits, which may be the genetic basis for the formation of trait-trait relationships. The current study deepens the understanding of LES traits in wheat at the intraspecific and genetic levels, supporting the trait-based adaptation strategies to improve wheat productivity and resource-use efficiency. • Wheat is a fast-growing species compared to the global LES dataset. • PCA analysis (slow-fast) reveals positive associations with agronomic traits. • Some loci link to various traits, potentially underpinning trait-trait relationships. • Expanding LES framework could enhance wheat productivity and resource efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is the most consumed legume crop in the world, and one of the most consumed legume crops in Botswana. This study aims to identify constraints and opportunities in common beans production in order to enhance common bean production in the country. A survey was conducted among 287 farmers in two districts of Southern and Chobe with farmers selected by multi-stage sampling technique. The majority of farmers were female (66.1%), a few farmers planted common bean (11.5%). Slightly more than a quarter (27.8%) of farmers were above the age of 65 years. Constraints to production included pests and diseases, damage by animals, lack of labour, drought, and lack of seeds. Seven percent of farmers assumed that common bean was a drought tolerant crop and 33% of farmers said common bean taste better than other pulses. However, only 21% preferred to grow it. More farmers (13.2%) grew common bean in the Southern district than farmers in the Chobe district (7.0%). Farmers who grew common bean bought their seeds from Agro dealers (76%) with an average amount of 6kg of seed purchased at a time at an average price of $1.11 kg-1. Common bean was planted on 7% of the arable land that was planted. Most of the farmers (87%) were not trained in common bean production and received little or no assistance from extension officers resulting in little knowledge by farmers about the production of common beans. Strategies to create awareness are needed to facilitate access and mobilise farmers to adopt common beans to improve their livelihoods. This is particularly encouraged in agro-ecological zones such as Chobe with high yield producing potential. Development of seed systems and release of varieties tested in Botswana agro-ecological zones, would increase the production of common bean to improve food security and nutrition, and reduce import bill in Botswana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustaining yields for smallholder perennial agriculture under a rapidly changing climate regime may require consideration of landscape features and on-farm management decisions in tandem. Optimising landscape and management may not be possible for maximising yields in any one year but maintaining heterogeneous landscapes could be an important climate adaptation strategy. In this study, we observed elevation, forest patch and shade management gradients affecting smallholder coffee (Coffea arabica) yields in a 'normal' year versus the 2015/16 El Niño. We generally found a benefit to yields from having leguminous shade trees and low canopy openness, while maintaining diverse shade or varying canopy openness had more complex influences during a climate shock. The two years of observed climate shock were dominated by either drought or high temperatures, with yield responses generally negative. Climate projections for East Africa predict more erratic rainfall and higher temperatures, which will disproportionately impact smallholder farmers. • Monitoring of C. arabica over landscape and on-farm gradients during a climate shock. • Elevation, forest patch area, canopy gap and shade tree diversity affect coffee yield. • These yield effects vary between normal and climate shock years. • No optimal landscape location or configuration observed for maintaining coffee yields. • Heterogeneous landscapes suggested as a smallholder climate adaptation strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Fall armyworm (FAW), an invasive pest of maize and other cultivated crops, has been established in Kenya since 2016. It is a serious threat to maize production and poses a challenge to food and nutrition security. Little is known about its co-occurrence with resident stemborers, relative infestation and damage and how agronomic factors influence its infestation and damage in maize cropping systems across different agro-ecological zones. Maize fields were surveyed across three agro-ecological zones in Kenya. Fall armyworm was found across the three agro-ecological zones and it dominated resident stemborers in maize cropping systems. Its infestations and damage were highest at coastal lowlands compared to mid-altitude and high-altitude lands. Maize grown under mixed cropping systems, with rainfed production and weeded frequently had low infestation and damage compared to those grown under monoculture, with irrigation and no weeding, respectively. Young vegetative maize plants were more infested and damaged compared to mature plants. Different maize varieties were found to have different infestation and damage levels. These results demonstrate dominance of FAW over resident stemborers and that agronomic practices play a role in influencing FAW infestation and damage in maize cropping systems, which need to be considered when designing sustainable pest management solutions. Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda J.E Smith, (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a serious invasive pest of maize that has been established in Kenya since 2016. Little is known about its co-occurrence with resident stemborers, relative infestation and damage and how agronomic factors influence its infestation and damage in maize cropping systems across different agro-ecological zones. This study assessed FAW co-occurrence with resident stemborers, relative infestation and damage across three agro-ecological zones, and the effects of different agronomic practices on its infestation and damage in maize cropping systems in Kenya. A total of 180 maize farms were surveyed across three different agro-ecological zones. FAW infestation and damage was highest in lowlands compared to mid-altitude and high-altitude lands. Its population (eggs and larvae) dominated that of resident stemborers in maize fields. Maize grown under mixed cropping systems, with rainfed production and weeded frequently had low infestation and damage compared to those grown under monoculture, with irrigation and no weeding, respectively. Young vegetative maize plants were more infested and damaged compared to mature plants. Different maize varieties were found to have different infestation and damage levels with Pioneer having the least damage. These results demonstrate that agronomic practices play a role in influencing FAW infestation and damage in maize cropping systems. Further, the population of FAW is dominating that of stemborers in maize cropping systems in Kenya, four years after its invasion. Thus, agronomic practices need to be considered while designing sustainable agro-ecological-based management solutions for resource-constrained smallholder farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of projected agro-climatic variability on the productivity of smallholding farming livelihoods have been evaluated by indirect methods using simulation models on country or regional basis but few have been done at the community level. This study explores direct observation of the impact of soil and climate factors on crop and livestock livelihood systems in the three major agro-ecological zones of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It also analyzed their influence on small farmers' choices of agrarian livelihood activities and the lessons learned for the suitability of agro-ecologically integrated agriculture as part of agrarian and food security reforms needed among small farming households in rural communities of South Africa. The impact of soil and rainfall on the crop and livestock livelihood choices of smallholders in the three major agro-ecological zones were explored. A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 223 smallholding farming households during the harvesting period of rain-fed farming season. Data on household livelihood activities were processed in monetary terms and subjected to gross margin and cost/benefit analysis. Geographic information system (GIS) mapping and statistical analysis were used to determine the association of smallholder maize revenue with agro-climatic variation. The results indicated that crop-based activities performed better in the Grassland zone, while livestock activities performed better in the Savanna zone. Small farms in the Karoo can only productively engage in livestock production. The results also showed that farming activities that combined more vegetable crops yielded greater profits than other field crops. Furthermore, the results indicate that the mixed cropping method remains one of the strategies for breaking-even and risk-bearing effort used by the smallholder farmers considering its cost-sharing benefits. Geographical information system (GIS) mapping further indicates that smallholders' farming activity was not only affected by soilclimatic factors but by their management skills as well. We recommend agroecologically adapted policies and incentives for agriculture-based livelihood activities and intensified mixing of cropping systems among the smallholder farming households in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population dynamics can be highly variable in the face of environmental heterogeneity, and understanding this variation is central in the study of ecology. Robust management decisions require that we understand how populations respond to management at a range of scales, and under a broad suite of conditions. Population models are potentially valuable tools in addressing this challenge. However, without adequate data, models can fail to produce useful results. Populations of arable weeds are particularly problematic in this respect, as they are widespread and their dynamics are extremely variable. Owing to the inherent cost of collecting data, most studies of plant population dynamics are derived from localized experiments under a small range of environmental conditions, limiting the extent to which variance in population dynamics can be measured. Density‐structured models provide a route to rapid, large‐scale analysis of population dynamics, and can expand the scale of ecological models that are directly tied to data. Here we extend previous density‐structured models to include environmental heterogeneity, variation in management, and to account for inter‐population variation. We develop, parameterize, and test hierarchical density‐structured models for a common agricultural weed, black‐grass (Alopecurus myosuroides). We model the dynamics of this species in response to crop management, using survey data gathered over 4 yr from 364 fields across a network of 45 UK farms. We show that hierarchical density‐structured models provide a substantial improvement over their nonhierarchical counterparts. Using these models, we demonstrate that several alternative crop rotations are effective in reducing weed densities. Rotations with high wheat prevalence exhibit the most severe infestations, and diverse rotations generally have lower weed densities. However, a key outcome is that in many cases the effect of crop rotation is small compared to the high variability arising from spatiotemporal heterogeneity. This result highlights the need to monitor and model population dynamics across large spatial and temporal scales in order to account for variation in the drivers of plant dynamics. Our framework for data collection and modeling provides a means to achieve this. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issues posed by the unfolding impacts of COVID‐19 are very uneven in the case of Argentina, a major global commodity exporter. As domestic food prices have continued to rise, worsening the living conditions of millions, and state policies seek to guarantee the population's access to food, the hegemonic agribusiness sector is fostering new alliances to strengthen its integration into global agri‐food markets. A full understanding of agribusiness' strategies needs to address the changes brought about by the pandemic on peasant‐like farmers and rural workers, the alternatives they have developed (mainly agroecology) in their struggle against the dominant food regime in recent years, and explore the extent to which local expressions of this antagonism are being reshaped. In doing so, we also pay attention to the role of the state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a reflective narrative depicting the characteristics and practices of the traditional agricultural ecological knowledge of the Tayal people who live in the hind mountains of Jienshi District, Hsinchu County. This paper also initiates a dialogue with anthropologist Tim Ingold’s discourse about walking based on his interpretations of the concepts of production, history, dwelling and lines, which I echo with my understanding of care from an ecological perspective. In contemporary society, Tayal people’s agricultural activities are greatly influenced by the modern market economy. Therefore, the operation of traditional household management is loosened and changed. However, through my fieldwork and action-oriented teaching courses in the university, I found that some elements from their traditional knowledge practices still exist and borrow a modern form to develop. This paper employs the methodology of narrative enquiry to highlight the importance of these elements. Furthermore, my research indicates that the core spirit of these traditional knowledge practices lies in recognizing ways to help others to grow. The paper is divided into five parts. The first part is an enquiry into the concept of “walking.” The second part uses the method of narrative to bring out the complementary relationship between walking and narrative. The third part uses four narratives to illustrate Tayal people’s agricultural stories and related reflections. The fourth part engages in a dialogue with Tim Ingold’s anthropology of life. Finally, an ecological interpretation of care is provided as a correspondence to Ingold’s thought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop production is seriously threatened by drought. Greater availability of nitrogen and phosphorus through intercropping with grain legumes and inoculationwith Phosphate Solubilizing Bactaeria (PSB) can alleviate the negative effect of water stress on some crops. However, row crop-grain legume intercropping and using PSB bacteria is not welcomed or widely accepted by smallholder farmers in arid regions. The problem is that N-fixation by grain legumes cannot completely satisfy nitrogen demand of intercropped non-legume row crop especially in low phosphorus soils of these regions under restricted irrigation. The efficiency of PSB bacteria also is very low in the alkaline soil of this region. It suggests that some amount of nitrogen fertilizer should be used in this intercropping system. Nitrogen consumption also improves the efficiency of PSB bacteria. So, consumption of some mineral nitrogen, and incubation with PSB bacteria meet entirely the need for phosphorus fertilizer. Significant water saving by restricting irrigation without significant yield loss in row crop and grain legumes can be regarded as an advantage of this method. So, farmers can cultivate more land with the same amount of water. In such a situation, even small foliage of the grain legumes, as green manure, can convince the farmers to use the row crop-grain legumes intercropping system even under restricted irrigation conditions. Futures studies must focus on a better understanding of competition and facilitation of two crops for water and nutrients. They also must pay attention to nitrogen × PSB bacteria, and Phosphorus × rhizobacteria synergic interactions on yield and resources use efficiency of both crops. These studies may help to better water and plant nutrition management in a way that it is environmentally safe and economical for farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the 1970s, cotton has been a driving force in the transformation of agricultural production systems and a key element in local economies in the savannah areas of West and Central Africa (WCA). However, the sustainability of cotton-based production systems is often debated because of their effects on soils and the negative impacts of chemical pest control on the environment and human health. Through drastic reforms, the WCA cotton sector overcame the crises, showing its resilience. Today, research should be mobilized to help the sector tackle the major challenges: i) economic (price volatility, producers’ incomes), ii) social (inclusion of vulnerable groups, role of women and young people, etc.) and iii) environmental (impact of pesticides, soil degradation, etc.) and linked to climate change. The articles published in this issue present some results and perspectives of research work, which can help improving the sustainability of cotton systems in WCA, open paths towards an agro-ecological transition and address the new challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to describe the profile of consumers of agro-ecological foods and understand their motivations, we carried out 21 semi-structured interviews and a survey of 234 people at the Producer-to-Consumer Fair at the School of Agronomy of the University of Buenos Aires. In this article, the main features of the consumers are presented. The most important conclusion is that those who buy these foods are people from the urban middle class, with a higher than average level of formal education, and that consumption is motivated not only by associating them with a healthier life and a better quality of life, but also because they see in this practice a political and solidarity action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize is third important cereal crop in Pakistan and its area is expanding at steady pace by substituting various crops in its non core area. This increase in area demands a parallel rise in availability of promising varieties and effective seed production system. Maize and Millets Research Institute, Yusafwala, Sahiwal, Pakistan has developed a new full season white maize open pollinated variety (OPV) "Gohar-19" using half-sib selection method. The variety was tested at various agro-ecological zones throughout the country against well-known white maize OPV "Pearl" as check. Gohar-19 gave 30.8 and 10% higher yield as compared to the check under National Uniform Yield Trials (NUYT) at various research stations of Punjab, Pakistan during 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively. The variety was also found to be moderately resistant to Fusarium moniliform which causes stalk rot in maize. It has stay-green quality so can also be used as fodder after harvesting of cobs. Ridge sowing with 30" row to row and 8" plant to plant distance is recommended for obtaining higher grain yield of Gohar-19 in both spring and kharif seasons. The variety may contribute in improvement of local seed system as increasing the availability of good quality seed at the reasonable price to farming community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: A likely increasing demand for varieties mixtures, landraces and genetic diversity in cropping systems will underpin calls for models able to generalize phenological development at the species level, at the same time as providing the expected range of phenological variability. In the present article, we aimed to obtain a generalized phenological model of durum wheat (Triticum durum, Desf.). RESULTS: Using a large phenological dataset embracing field data collected under different sowing dates, varieties and locations over the Italian peninsula, we searched for the phenophases enabling the best linear approximations between developmental rates and air temperature, aiming to minimize the residual variability from drivers other than temperature, as genetic and environmental diversity. The developmental rates of the resulting phases were then examined with respect to the mean daylength to determine possible additional relations with photoperiod. If a correlation with daylength was also present, the developmental rate is calibrated by multiple linear regression, or otherwise by simple linear regression of temperature. The resulting calibration, tested on an independent data subset, confirms that the model is able to generalize wheat development over the Italian peninsula with high accuracy (mean absolute error =3–8 days; r2 = 0.75–0.98), regardless of the wheat variety. CONCLUSION: The generalized phenological model is potentially suitable for many agro‐ecological and large‐scale applications. It is hoped that the model will aid in situations where phenological observations to parameterize a model are still lacking, as is probably the case for landraces and underutilized crop varieties. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shea Vitellaria paradoxa trees bear fruit and seeds of considerable economic, nutritional and cultural value in the African Sudano‐Sahelian zone. In much of West Africa, shea exists within an agroforestry system referred to as 'parkland', where social changes, including migration, have resulted in expanding areas of crop cultivation, reductions in both the area of fallow land and the duration of fallow periods, and reduced diversity of habitats and woody species. Shea benefits strongly from pollination by bees and the loss of Parkland biodiversity may reduce the availability of pollinators, leading to pollen limitation and reductions in fruit yields.We investigated whether shea trees in southern Burkina Faso experienced pollination limitation, and whether local‐ and landscape‐scale diversity were linked to visitation by bees, the degree of limitation observed and the weight of fruit produced.Honeybees Apis mellifera were observed more frequently in diverse sites, whereas non‐Apis species were generally widespread but visited trees in greater numbers at diverse sites.We found that shea fruit production was significantly limited due to lack of pollination and that the degree of pollination limitation was greater in sites with lower levels of tree and shrub diversity.Synthesis and applications. Sites with greater diversity of tree and shrub species had more bee visits and less extreme pollination limitation than less diverse sites, indicating that small‐scale diversity is associated with more efficient pollination services. Consequently, shea yields are likely to benefit from retention of a range of different tree and shrub species in parklands. We recommend that when fallows are cleared for cultivation, such beneficial plants are retained within cultivated fields, and that measures to conserve pollinators in the region should target both A. mellifera and non‐Apis bee species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fall armyworm (FAW; Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith)) is emerging as the most destructive pest of maize in India since its report in May 2018. Its rapid spread to more than 90% of maize-growing areas of diverse agro-ecologies of India within a span of 16 months presents a major challenge to smallholder maize farmers, maize-based industry, as well as food and nutritional security. FAW has been reported from other crops as well like sorghum and millets with varied proportion of economic damage. In this review, the transboundary movement of FAW, role of ecology, its spread and damage are discussed. Management of FAW by developing and deploying various pest management tools is elaborated. The role of agroecological measures for reducing FAW damage with African experiences has also been highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) remains a public health concern in most developing nations. In Africa, PEM can be attributed to monotonous diets based on cereals, roots, and tubers, with little or no protein of animal origin. Diversifying cropping systems to include protein dense pseudo-cereals such as Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) could help provide more protein in the diet of vulnerable populations. Quinoa is a crop with potential for biodiversification because it has a high nutritional value; however, it is underutilized in Africa, and information about the nutritional quality of the grain grown in contrasting environments is limited. Within the framework of FAO's commemoration of 2013 as the 'The International Year of the Quinoa' (IYQ), a Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) project was developed with some African countries to assess the capacity of quinoa to adapt to different agro-ecological regions and the nutritional quality of the resulting grain. For this study, we evaluated the protein content and amino acid profile of three genotypes of quinoa that had been grown under diverse altitudes, soil, and climate conditions in Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia. The mean protein content (g/100g) of Kancolla, Titicaca and BBR varieties grown in Africa ranged from 14.33 ±0.20 to 17.61 ±0.55, 14.23 ±0.25 to 16.65 ±0.55, and 13.13 ±0.2 to 16.23 ±0.49, respectively. On the other hand, the protein content (g/100g) of Kancolla, Titicaca, and BBR seeds grown in Peru was 13.80 ±0.10, 17.43 ±0.31, and 17.07 ±0.11, respectively. The Kancolla variety [grown in Ethiopia and Kenya] had a significantly higher protein content than that obtained from Peru [P < 0.001]. Regarding the profile of essential amino acids, Quinoa is essentially richer in methionine than most cereals. Levels of methionine were lower in the seeds grown in Africa compared to those from Peru [P < 0.001]. In terms of environmental influences, the protein content was relatively higher in quinoa seeds grown in high-altitude areas, where soils have a low pH and high nitrogen content. We conclude that Quinoa can be introduced to Africa, especially to high altitudes and warm regions where the soil has a low pH and high nitrogen content. The crop would be ideal for diversifying local diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cross sectional study was carried out from November 2013 to March 2014 to collect the information on beekeeping practice in the study area. From this study, about 91.7% Traditional and 8.3% Transitional and Modern beekeeping system were identified. The honey yield/hive from traditional, transitional and improved hives was 10.1kg/year, 18.5kg/year and 29.6kg/year, respectively. Two honey flow seasons were identified in the study area. The major challenges of beekeeping were, bee disease, pests and predators, pesticide poisoning, lack of beekeeping equipments and materials, lack of honey storage facilities, lack of skill poor extension service. Due to high potential of the study area for apiculture and good quality standard of the honey, it is recommended to exploit the potential for export market with better intervention. Further study is also required to characterize the honeybees of the area and major pests and diseases of economic importance and their control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article analyses how a gendered perspective on community‐based tourism (CBT) contributes to the realisation of identity and sovereignty of quilombos. It examines the potential sustainability of CBT coupled with agro‐ecological practices within the context of gendered identity politics. Drawing from in‐depth ethnographic and archival research conducted between February and July 2015 at Campinho da Independência (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), the article discusses how female leaders integrate sustainable agro‐ecological practices and CBT with environmental education in what they call 'ethno‐ecological tourism'. This approach to CBT strengthens a proudly defiant version of Afro‐Brazilian ethnic identity vis‐à‐vis the state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moringa oleifera and Moringa stenopetala are grown in Malawi in different agro-ecological zones. Moringa oleifera is the most widely cultivated pan-tropical species of a monogeneric family, the Moringaceae , regarded as versatile because of its ability to provide edible food, oil and purify water for local communities. The tree is sometimes referred to as a "Miracle Tree" because of nutritional and pharmacological properties. Despite its great importance, M. oleifera is still not well exploited and hence considered as underutilized in Malawi. Natural distribution of M. oleifera in Malawi and elsewhere reveals rich variability in fruit types of semi-domesticated populations. Distribution pattern among others has had an influence on domestication trends in Malawi in terms of diversity. Despite the great variability of M. oleifera , there is no properly established genebank or database with either cultivated or spontaneous accessions in Malawi and elsewhere. Absence of elite varieties adapted to local conditions and use of seeds obtained through open pollination from planted plants are some of the major factors that limit productivity. In Malawi, there is limited knowledge of available genetic diversity present in Moringa species to warrant serious breeding programmes for meaningful scaling up. Furthermore, commercialization of Moringa products in Malawi is still very informal making it difficult to get reliable information of production volumes and prices thereby making it unattractive for scaling up. There is however a growing interest to upscale Moringa species distribution nationwide. Moringa oleifera is fairly distributed in specific agro-ecological zones of Malawi and easily adapted to new sites. This offers an opportunity to be planted much more widely by introducing the species within the existing farming systems as the species can also survive in degraded soils. As such, increased use of the species could have a positive impact on the nutritional and health status of people of Malawi. • Moringa was introduced in Malawi by Asians in the late 18th century. • Moringa is referred to as a "Miracle Tree" because of its properties. • Malawian diets limited due to lack of traditional knowledge of tree crops such as Moringa. • Genetic studies of Moringa offer an opportunity to breeding for tree improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The agricultural environment has an important role in the promotion of the development of society and economy. This report focused on the major challenges faced by the agro-ecological environment in China based on five aspects: severe pollution in the region, the low efficiency of the use of ecological resources, the increasing demand for in-depth control of environmental pollution, the lack of develop ment of the eco-environmental function, and insufficient scientific support for eco-environmental protection. Important progress in science and technology of the program for research and development on comprehensive prevention and control techniques for agricultural non-point sources and heavy metal polluted farmland were summarized. We then analyzed the demand and response to future technological innovation. The suggestion of technological innovation was advanced based on pollution prevention and control, green production, ecological conservation and similar considerations. This report provides a reference for recent scientific and technological innovation activities in the agro-ecological environment in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing consensus that agriculture, forestry, and livestock integration (agroforestry systems) could assist South Asia in combating food insecurity by expediting the transition towards sustainability. However, there is a dearth of a comprehensive synthesis of evidence demonstrating the actual relevance of this nexus to agroecological development and farmers' food security in South Asia—the majority of whom are smallholders with limited assets. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the potentiality of the South Asian agroforestry systems- as a viable agroecological approach for ensuring farmers' food security: food availability, access, utilization, and stability. A systematic literature review was conducted following the guidelines provided by the "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses" (PRISMA) to achieve the study objective. The Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection databases were used, along with Google Scholar as an additional database, to gather relevant articles for the review. Among the 95 studies reviewed, only nine explicitly focused on food security, and none of them examined all four dimensions of food security simultaneously. Moreover, the skewed distribution of studies towards the Himalayan belt and a lack of quantitative measurement make it challenging to determine the extent to which agroforestry improved farmers' food security. However, the review identified several pathways, such as diversification of food options (n = 53), fodder supply (n = 57), income increase (n = 73) and diversification (n = 64), fuel wood supply (n = 59), fulfillment of medicinal needs (n = 30), and soil enrichment (n = 36), through which the integration of agriculture, forestry, and livestock could contribute to the food security. However, some studies found certain drawbacks, such as a decrease in agricultural crop yield (n = 29), breeding of pests and diseases (n = 10), and a longer gestation period (n = 9), which could threaten food and livelihood security. Nevertheless, evidence suggests that appropriate species selection and effective management practices can help mitigate these negative impacts. The findings of this study will aid in the effective policy formulation to ensure food security by providing decision-makers and last-mile institutions with information on the benefits and drawbacks of the agricultural, forestry, and livestock nexus. Furthermore, the review findings would allow for cross-temporal and cross-spatial comparisons. Future research would benefit from the review approach used in this work as well as the identified research gaps. [Display omitted] • This study assessed the contribution of the agroforestry system (AFS) as an agroecological approach to ensuring farmers' food security in South Asia (SA). • The review found a trade-off between short-term loss and long-term financial gain from AFS. • Despite understory crop reduction, AFS provided dietary diversity and income diversification. • Appropriate species selection and management knowledge are essential to ensure food security in SA through AFS. • More quantitative evaluation of diverse agroforestry systems is needed for a comprehensive understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we give an account of the development of agroecology in Argentina, specifically from the dimension of socio-political analysis. We want to analyse agroecology as a collective action, in his disruptive capacity. This means that we will analyze the agroecology as a component of the action of social movements. To achieve our objective, in the first instance present we will present a cartography of the main collective expressions, cooperatives and associations for the promotion, production and agroecological marketing in Argentina, and then we will emphasize the programmatic contents of the agroecological proposal presented in this country. social movements of rural populations. From this analysis, we will seek to answer the question of why agroecology has been proposed by indigenous peasant movements as a paradigmatic alternative that antagonizes industrialbased agriculture, and what are the scope of this approach as a process of social change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gully erosion is one of the main causes of land degradation, particularly in the drought-prone regions of Ethiopia. This study assessed spatio-temporal changes of gully length and density in watershed pairs in Guder, Aba Gerima, and Dibatie sites, which are representative highland, midland, and lowland agro-ecologies in the Upper Blue Nile basin of Ethiopia. Aerial photographs (1957, 1982) and very high resolution satellite images (QuickBird, IKONOS, Worldview-2, SPOT-7, and Pleiades) of the six watersheds, along with field survey results, were used in the analyses. The aerial photographs were scanned and orthorectified using ENVI 4.3 image analysis software, and gullies were mapped by visual image interpretation in the ArcGIS environment. Rates of increase in gully length in Guder (36.9 m yr−1) and Aba Gerima (33.6 m yr−1) were almost double the rate in Dibatie (17.8 m yr−1) from 1957 to 2016 or 2017, and over the same period, gully density similarly increased by 5.9, 5.4, and 3.7 m ha−1 in Guder, Aba Gerima, and Dibatie, respectively. The higher rates in Guder and Aba Gerima reflect the long history of cultivation and human settlement in those sites, whereas agricultural activity became widespread in Dibatie only after implementation of the national resettlement program in the 1980s. Moreover, although gully density tended to increase over time in all six watersheds, in the three watersheds (one in each paired watershed) where soil and water conservation measures had been introduced, the rate of increase was lower than in those where no such measures were implemented. In addition, gully distribution was linked to land use and landscape position; gully density was higher in cultivated areas and where slope gradients were gentle. The results of this study indicate that careful site-specific identification of factors controlling gully initiation and development is crucial so that appropriate management strategies can be developed for these three sites and for other areas with similar agro-ecologies in the Upper Blue Nile basin. • Little is known about the distribution and rates of gully erosion in Ethiopia. • High-resolution imageries help to detect long-term gully erosion dynamics. • Cultivation history is a key factor for gully erosion dynamics across three sites. • Cultivated lands found in gentle slope are the most-prone to gully erosion. • Gully erosion is being reversed following land management interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the scale of genetic variation informs studies of dispersal, connectivity, and population dynamics particularly in heterogeneous landscapes. Mastomys natalensis and Mus minutoides are generalist rodents that utilize multiple habitat types within the agro-ecological landscapes of southern African savannas. To study the comparative spatial genetic structure of these species we developed 9 new microsatellites for Mus and used 14 microsatellite loci previously developed for Mastomys , to genotype rodents sampled across an agro-ecological landscape (˜200 km2). Spatial genetic structure was measured using spatial autocorrelation and Moran's Eigenvector Maps analysis. In both species, non-random genetic similarity was limited to only the smallest spatial scales (<600 m), and at that scale, it was significantly greater in Mastomys than in Mus. Only a small proportion of the genetic signal across the landscape was due to spatial signal in Mastomys , and there was no spatial signal detected for Mus. The lack of spatial autocorrelation beyond the first six hundred meters for both species illustrated that they are capable of high rates of dispersal, while the observed patterns of genetic panmixia found for both species is the predicted genetic outcome for species with omnivorous habits and plastic habitat use. These findings have implications for both pest management and rodent-borne disease control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A typology based on market gardening practices was carried out based on a survey of 300 producers from ten urban, semi-urban and rural market gardening sites of Bobo-Dioulasso in Burkina Faso, in view of assessing the potential for transition towards more ecological production methods. No farmer currently practices exclusively organic or agro-ecological production methods. The typology allowed defining four types of farms based on their location, size and intensity of use of pesticides and mineral and organic fertilizers. All farms have common assets such as the widespread practice of crop rotations and associations and organic fertilization, but also specific challenges in terms of pesticide use and sustainable fertilization for an agro-ecological transition. Producers generally have a weak and imprecise knowledge of the effects of their practices on the environment, especially in urban areas where greater awareness regarding the health and environmental impacts of market gardening practices needs to be raised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The concept of food regimes has become a prominent theory in political economy. We here provide socio-ecological underpinning of the food regimes theory and thereby connect it closer to an ecological economics perspective. We quantify physical trade with main agricultural commodities between world regions from the mid-19th century to 2016 and ask how trade patterns relate to issues of resource use, in particular, to land use, soil fertility and the energetic basis of agriculture. Agricultural exports rose from a few million t/yr around 1870 to 1.4 billion t/yr in 2016. Growth in trade and production did not follow a continuous trend, periods of accelerated growth alternating with phases of relative stability can be distinguished. Rather than directed modernization we observe shifts in unequal relations of power, physical exchange and environmental pressure between changing centers and peripheries. The periods of growth in trade match with the periodization of food regimes. We find that regime shifts are closely related to changes in societies energy metabolism, in the resource base of agricultural production and also to agro-ecological crisis. Our analysis emphasizes that food regimes not only reflect changes in power relations in the world system, but also changes in societies natural relations. Highlights • During the last 150 years agricultural trade has grown from 0.002 to 1.4 Gt/yr. • Periods of growth in global export flows match with food regime periodization. • Food regime (FR) shifts correspond to major changes in societies metabolism. • FR shifts are related to ecological crisis and changes in the resource base of agriculture. • The third, neoliberal FR is characterized by conflicting socio-ecological trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Invertebrates make up over 95% of animal biodiversity on Earth and contribute to multiple ecosystem services (ES) in natural and human-dominated systems. One such service, biological control (BC) of herbivorous pests, is a core component of sustainable intensification of agriculture, yet its importance is routinely overlooked. Here we report a macro-scale, cross-cultural assessment of the public visibility (or 'salience') of BC invertebrates, using high-throughput analysis of large bodies of digitized text (i.e., 'culturomics'). Using binomial scientific name frequency as proxy for visibility, we compared the extent to which a given species featured in webpages within either scientific media or the entire worldwide web, and in total search volume at varying spatial scale. For a set of 339 BC invertebrate species, scientific and internet coverage averaged 1020 and 1735 webpages, respectively. Substantial variability was recorded among BC taxa with Coleoptera, Hemiptera and Nematoda having comparatively high visibility. Online visibility exhibited large geographical variability ranging from France covering BC invertebrates on average in 1050 webpages versus Thailand or Indonesia on just 31–38. This work represents the first extensive use of culturomics to assess public visibility of insect-mediated ES. As BC uptake is dictated by stakeholders' access to (agro-ecological) information, our work identifies geographically-delineated areas that are differentially attuned to the concept of invertebrate BC, pinpoints opportunities for focusing education campaigns and awareness-raising, enables real-time tracking of BC public appeal, and informs public policy. Graphical abstract Global and country-specific disparities in the relationship between scientific salience and internet salience for >300 biological control invertebrates. Unlabelled Image Highlights • Invertebrates provide several key ecosystem services, yet are routinely disregarded • Culturomics approaches reveal global visibility for 339 biological control organisms • Major geographical and inter-taxa differences are recorded in public visibility • Metrics reflect constituencies that are differentially attuned to biological control • Our study guides awareness-raising, agricultural extension and policy dialogue [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolvement of IPM has experienced several significant stages. IPM is an ecosystem as a governance unit. It allows the presence of low numbers of pests because a direct or indirect relationship between biological species and their associated environmental living conditions could keep a long-term ecological balance. IPM also emphasizes overall benefits; it is necessary to integrate all kinds of safe, effective, economic, and simple managements as far as possible. When synthesizing and coordinating various managements, effective control object, effective time limit, effective scope, and effective degree of the individual method should be analysed first. The ultimate goal of IPM is for the sustainable development of agriculture. In the future IPM system engineering, crop resistance, the role of natural enemies, agricultural control, and the application of biological control technologies will be greatly strengthened, and the role of chemical pesticides will be significantly reduced. Safe, effective, and long-lasting control of pest populations will be below the level of harm caused, which could protect the ecological environment and the health of people and livestock, and promote the development of production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • We tested the attractiveness of volatiles from aphid × plant combinations to H. axyridis adults. • H. axyridis preferred aphid-infested plants over un-infested plants or aphids alone. • Five kinds of volatiles preferred by H. axyridis were identified. Abstract Volatiles play important roles in the recruitment of arthropod natural enemies, and are widely used in foraging by the multicolored Asian lady beetle Harmonia axyridis Pallas (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). In its native range in Asia and throughout its invaded range, H. axyridis preys upon multiple species of aphids in both natural and agricultural settings, yet little is known about the volatile cues it employs to locate prey items. In this study, we test the attractiveness of volatiles emanating from four different aphid × plant combinations to H. axyridis adults in a Y-tube olfactometer. More specifically, we exposed host plants from various plant families as such: Artemisia lavandulaefolia (Asteraceae) with Macrosiphoniella artemisiae ; Gossypium hirsutum (Malvaceae) with Aphis gossypii ; Triticum aestivum (Poaceae) with Sitobion avenae and Schizaphis graminum ; and Vicia faba (Fabaceae) with Megoura viciae. Next, using coupled gas chromatography – electroantennogram detection (GC-EAD) and gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS), we identified the volatile compounds from aphid × plant combinations that elicit electrophysiological activity in H. axyridis adults. Lastly, a total of five volatiles were assessed in open-field tests with barrel traps. In olfactometer assays, H. axyridis adults preferred aphid-infested plants over un-infested plants or aphids alone. In GC-EAD trials, seven electrophysiologically-active compounds were found; and in ensuing behavioral assays, ladybeetles preferred five kinds of volatiles (i.e., p-diethylbenzene, 3-ethylacetophenone, 1,2-diethylbenzene, α-pinene and butyl acrylate). In open-field tests, H. axyridis were significantly attracted to all five info-chemicals at a concentration 100 mg/ml. Our work not only sheds light upon H. axyridis chemical ecology, but equally provides important information that can facilitate the future development of integrated pest management (IPM) tactics for aphid control or volatile-based trapping and monitoring technologies for H. axyridis in its invaded range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional landraces of rice plant had a major role in building socio-economic status of rural poor. The present study deals with the diversity and ethnobotanic significance of indigenous landraces of rice in Lakhimpur district of Assam, India. Altogether, twenty-one indigenous landraces of rice were collected during the present study. Each class having important role to play, the major classes of rice include glutinous, common rice and aromatic rice. Other than being a staple food, rice and its products are still frequently used by rural folk in various festivals, religious and social ceremonies in the form of sweets, cakes, snacks and beverages. Bora-dhan was reported with the highest use value. Based on grain's qualitative and quantitative traits, the obtained dendrogram contains four different clusters; while, the OTUs (Operational taxonomic unit) present in a cluster display morphological similarity. The dendrogram also illustrated diversified distribution of grains in this region. The study also reveals the profound relationship of people with the traditional landraces of rice. The ethnic farmers should be made aware to promote on-farm conservation of crop diversity, before it is lost under the debris of modernization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine the variation of vine growth-development and fruit quality characteristics of 'Hayward' and 'Matua' kiwifruit cultivars at different altitude in Ardeşen district of Rize (Turkey) province during two growing seasons in 2013-14. Significant differences in phenological dates of kiwifruit cultivars, cultivated at different altitudes were observed in both years. Generally, the kiwifruit cultivars, grown at 20 m altitude sprouted 7 days early and dropped their leaves 9-10 days later when compared to the cultivars, grown at 610 m altitude. Besides, the vegetative growth of vines was normal at all altitudes and the annual shoot diameter and length decreased with increase in altitude. With increase in altitude, the leaf area, number of leaf, bud, flower, and fruit on shoot decreased in both kiwifruit cultivars. The lowest values for leaf area, number of leaf, bud, flower, and fruit on shoot were detected in vines grown at 610 m altitude and the highest means were reached in vines grown at 20 and 210 m altitudes. The width, length index, weight, firmness, TSS, pH of fruit and yield values of 'Hayward' cultivar decreased with increase in altitude. The highest values were recorded from orchard at 20 and 210 m altitude. Acidity and firmness of fruit increased with increase in altitude and the highest acidity and firmness was taken from 610 m altitude. Effect of altitude was found non-significant for vitamin C content in both years. The results suggested that the cultivars at various altitudes were performed better but the new commercial cultivations of 'Hayward' and 'Matua' kiwifruit cultivars must be made in areas with up to 210 m altitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture in semi-arid Burkina Faso is dominated by mixed crop-livestock smallholder farms with limited investment capacity in production factors, such as improved seeds, fertilizer and equipment. Hence, to make a living, farmers try to make the best use of available resources based on principles of agro-ecology, including crop diversity and nutrient and biomass recycling. We investigated farm-level management of resources (soil, crops and livestock) through time to assess whether the current management options were able to sustain crop and livestock production and fulfil household food requirements. We ran a one-year detailed farm monitoring campaign in collaboration with 22 volunteer farmers representing the diversity of the farming system in our study area. We quantified inputs and outputs in the cropping system (177 fields) for one rainy season. In addition, the weekly dynamics of crop residues left on field were quantified. Moreover, inflow and outflow of resources at farm level were quantified weekly. The cropping system was characterized by a negative nitrogen balance of about 12 kg N/ha/year, with market-oriented farms and large livestock owners having the most negative balance. Legumes grown (sole and intercropping) contributed to alleviate the nitrogen depletion by adding 15 kg N/ha/year to the nitrogen inputs through atmospheric fixation. However, cereal-legume intercropping did not significantly reduce the nitrogen deficit in comparison to sole cereal cropping mainly because of the small proportion of legumes (8%) in intercropped fields. Livestock grazed crop residues left on the soil (739 kg dry matter/ha on average) at a rate of 26 − 76 kg/ha/week, thus strongly reducing the potential for mulching in the region. Livestock protein requirements were rarely met from farm-produced feed with average feed gaps ranging between 40% and 89% of the daily requirements for small and large herd keepers respectively. Large livestock (cattle) owners relied on transhumance during the rainy season, grazing and frequent purchase of crop residues and concentrates to feed their livestock. We estimated that grazed biomass provided on average at least 73% and 58% of metabolizable energy and protein feed requirement of livestock respectively. Concerning food availability, the amount of grain produced was generally enough to fulfil household energy requirements (89–175% of required energy, in kcal), even if households with higher people to land ratio were not self-sufficient. We concluded that the current farm management, even if it provides enough food for the majority of investigated farms, results in soil fertility mining and poor crop livestock production and integration. Our detailed farm data indicate that an appropriate diversity of crops and a better integration of legume crops in the cropping system, associated to improved manure and forage management is needed to sustain crop and livestock production. [Display omitted] • Biomass and nutrient flows were quantified for all components in mixed farm systems. • Nitrogen application rates were far below the national recommendations. • Soil fertility mining was observed despite the presence of legumes. • All farms relied on external inputs to meet their livestock feed requirement. • Households were food self-sufficient except those with higher people to land ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainability of agriculture can be improved by integrating management of ecosystem services, such as insect pollination, into farming practices. However, large‐scale adoption of ecosystem services‐based practices in agriculture is lacking, possibly because growers undervalue the benefits of ecosystem services compared to those of conventional management practices. Here we show that, under representative real‐world conditions, pollination and plant quality made similar contributions to marketable seed yield of hybrid leek (Allium porrum). Relative to the median, a 25% improvement of plant quality and pollination increased crop value by an estimated $18 007 and $17 174 ha−1 respectively. Across five crop lines, bumblebees delivered most pollination services, while other wild pollinator groups made less frequent but nevertheless substantial contributions. Honeybees actively managed for pollination services did not make significant contributions. Our results show that wild pollinators are an undervalued agricultural input and managing for enhancing pollinators makes sense economically in high‐revenue insect‐pollinated cropping systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of the C and N models published over past decades are based on parameters not always linked to the environment and underestimate the role of microorganisms. They are often over-parameterized, which can give multiple solutions for flow calculations between state variables. This work proposes a modelling method centred on the functioning of living organisms in order to calculate flow parameters using data on N stocks in decomposers, plant organs, symbiotic microorganisms, and the soil compartments. The model was settled via a complex N fixing and intercropping system of durum wheat/faba bean compared to the cropping of pure durum wheat and pure faba bean, all in the context of organic farming invaded by weeds and weeded by hand just before flowering. To avoid perturbation of natural exchanges of C and N, no fertilizer was added from 1997 to 2011. The equation system defined for the association of any number of plants, as well as parameters previously published for C-flow calculations were used, and only a few parameters specific to N flows were added, and are discussed. The results showed the strong link between N and C in the environment. The calculations converge toward an unique set of solutions that is consistent with literature data when available. The labile organic N of microbial origin was modelled as the main potentially available stock. Living microorganisms stored about 1% of total N, which was close to the N stock in faba bean and four times more than stock in durum wheat. Inorganic N was immobilized before flowering in competition with N requirement of durum wheat roots. Net N mineralization, mainly from decomposition of faba bean roots, started too late to improve wheat production. During the cropping period, weeds accounted for losses of 20 kg N ha −1 , while the atmospheric N 2 fixation of 90 kg N ha −1 was close to the total microbial immobilization. The model associating microbial and plant flows of C and N in complex plant covers, appears as a robust tool to quantify the exchanges of the earth organisms with the soil and atmosphere. It enables to propose essential recommendations to improve as well agro-ecology as predictions of global changes of C and N stocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cowpea ( Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) is an important African food legume suitable for dry regions. It is the main legume in two contrasting agro-ecological regions of Kenya as an important component of crop rotations because of its relative tolerance to unpredictable drought events. This study was carried out in an effort to establish a collection of bacterial root nodule symbionts and determine their relationship to physicochemical soil parameters as well as any geographical distributional patterns. Bradyrhizobium spp. were found to be widespread in this study and several different types could be identified at each site. Unique but rare symbionts were recovered from the nodules of plants sampled in a drier in-land region, where there were also overall more different bradyrhizobia found. Plants raised in soil from uncultivated sites with a natural vegetation cover tended to also associate with more different bradyrizobia. The occurrence and abundance of different bradyrhizobia correlated with differences in soil texture and pH, but did neither with the agro-ecological origin, nor the origin from cultivated (n = 15) or uncultivated (n = 5) sites. The analytical method, protein profiling of isolated strains by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), provided higher resolution than 16S rRNA gene sequencing and was applied in this study for the first time to isolates recovered directly from field-collected cowpea root nodules. The method thus seems suitable for screening isolate collections on the presence of different groups, which, provided an appropriate reference database, can also be assigned to known species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores how Māori women in Aotearoa (New Zealand) are defining their own food system and the values of the women at the heart of their community food initiatives. Using a blend of participatory and kaupapa Māori (Māori principles) research methodologies, the study took place over the course of 3 years, involving four women or case studies who manage community food initiatives, with three located in the North Island and one in the South Island of New Zealand. The article discusses the benefits of community gardens and farms, noting how they are counteracting food poverty through promoting access to local food while bringing more attention to the essential role that Indigenous women play in addressing food security issues. The case studies exemplify how Māori women are leading the way within their own whānau (families) and communities, promoting local solutions to global food issues, solutions based on their own knowledge and Māori cultural values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus is a contaminant of major concern in agricultural systems, as increased concentrations in runoff have led to escalating incidents of eutrophication. A potential solution involves planting buffer strips of high biomass-producing tree species along riparian zones. Trees belonging to the family Salicaceae inhabit a diverse geographical range and display highly variable growth traits, allowing for their use in a wide range of environmental applications, including their use in agroforestry to prevent soil erosion, for reclamation of marginal lands, and acting as vegetative filters. Characterization of differences in nutrient allocation and storage in these tree species is needed to assess their effectiveness as buffer strips. For several willow and poplar varieties, phenotypic differences were quantified using ICP-AES and HPLC. Poplar varieties such as Tristis and Northwest demonstrated the highest capacity for luxury uptake, with an estimated 3.7–3.9 mgP g −1 when 2.2 mM soluble phosphate (100N:70P) was applied. However, the majority of phosphorus was stored in the leaves and was returned to the environment as autumnal senescence progressed. Hybrid willows, such as AAFC-5, are excellent alternatives as the highest proportion of biomass was allocated to the stem, to be retained for long-term storage or coppiced and removed from the site. AAFC-5 accumulated approximately 2.1 mgP g −1 and had the lowest concentration of phosphorus in senescent leaves, resulting in higher resorption efficiencies than hybrid poplar. The observed variation in phenotypic plasticity among genotypes suggests a complex response to nutrient conditions that likely exists in many species beyond those presented in this study. Differences between closely related species can in turn, be used to investigate the genetic and biochemical controls of nutrient allocation and resorption. Should higher resorption rates be achievable in the phosphorus accumulating poplar hybrids, optimal recovery from phosphorus heavy soils could be attained through coppicing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Woody networks of hedgerows, tree lines and forest patches can harbour a high biodiversity and may serve as an important species refuge in agricultural landscapes. In order to protect the biodiversity and associated potential ecosystem services of woody networks, we need to understand their drivers. We surveyed the plant diversity and calculated the pollinator resource value and edibility value of 831 woody elements in 47 landscape windows of 1 km 2 in the countryside in northern Belgium. The woody network hosted approximately 45% of the plant diversity in the studied countryside, and forest species, grassland species, tall herbs as well as pioneer species coexisted successfully within the woody elements. The pollination resource value showed the highest correlation with the species richness and abundance of the forest species, whereas for edibility the species richness and abundance of the tall herbs were determinative. The number of forest species mainly depended on the presence of forests in the surrounding landscape and the link was even stronger in historical woody elements. For grassland species, tall herbs and pioneers, we found that structural variables of the woody element itself were the most important driver. We argue that by protecting existing woody elements and thoughtfully designing and locating new ones, intrinsic and functional diversity in the countryside can benefit well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Migrations in the Northern Region are a relatively old phenomenon. They date back to the early 1970s and were initiated and supervised by the State, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and spontaneous initiatives. Very often they have been analyzed as a source of conflict and destruction of the environment. The migrations of the populations of the Far North towards the south of Garoua responded to a need to relieve the mountain areas, which were then overpopulated and suffering extreme poverty, by the development of agriculture, notably cotton. Deforestation and conflicting views are not lacking in this context, but they can lead to a greater awareness of conservation of the environment and institutional social engineering of cohabitation where the interests of different members are balanced. This approach has obscured and compromised a resilience that has allowed for a certain socio-economic, environmental and ecological sustainability, as can be seen in Koza II. However, the hope to achieve sustainable development in the context of migration, as in Koza II, means taking up the challenge of guaranteeing local interests and articulating them with the national and even international ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cocoa farms continue to expand and to replace the country's last remaining forests. The decade of politico-military crisis has prolonged this process of expansion at the expense of protected areas, contributing to the fall in the world price of cocoa in 2017. At the same time, Ivory Coast is losing its forest rent' and cocoa production costs are increasing. Faced with the ecological, climatic, technical, social and political changes associated with these cocoa cycles, how does family farming innovate and transform landscapes, with or without cocoa cultivation? These questions are addressed empirically on the basis of samples of 40 to 200 farms at 10 sites in the cocoa-cultivation zone, taking stock of the technical changes that have taken place In the turbulent ecological and social context of the 2000 and 2010 decades. The results are structured into a 'hexalogy' of dynamics, arising from the interactions between the cocoa cycle, prices, migration networks, politico-military crisis and climate change, with each of these factors having a relative effect depending on particular regions. The diversification or conversion of cocoa cultivation to cashew nut cultivation, the development of livestock production and the adoption of the use of animal manure, which is helping double cocoa yields, demonstrates the ability of family farming to innovate more effectively than public and private entities. But like all technical progress, these innovations can also contribute to the fall in the world price of the commodity concerned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Grassland diversity can support sustainable intensification of grassland production through increased yields, reduced inputs and limited weed invasion. We report the effects of diversity on weed suppression from 3 years of a 31‐site continental‐scale field experiment. At each site, 15 grassland communities comprising four monocultures and 11 four‐species mixtures based on a wide range of species' proportions were sown at two densities and managed by cutting. Forage species were selected according to two crossed functional traits, “method of nitrogen acquisition” and “pattern of temporal development”. Across sites, years and sown densities, annual weed biomass in mixtures and monocultures was 0.5 and 2.0 t  DM ha−1 (7% and 33% of total biomass respectively). Over 95% of mixtures had weed biomass lower than the average of monocultures, and in two‐thirds of cases, lower than in the most suppressive monoculture (transgressive suppression). Suppression was significantly transgressive for 58% of site‐years. Transgressive suppression by mixtures was maintained across years, independent of site productivity. Based on models, average weed biomass in mixture over the whole experiment was 52% less (95% confidence interval: 30%–75%) than in the most suppressive monoculture. Transgressive suppression of weed biomass was significant at each year across all mixtures and for each mixture. Weed biomass was consistently low across all mixtures and years and was in some cases significantly but not largely different from that in the equiproportional mixture. The average variability (standard deviation) of annual weed biomass within a site was much lower for mixtures (0.42) than for monocultures (1.77). Synthesis and applications. Weed invasion can be diminished through a combination of forage species selected for complementarity and persistence traits in systems designed to reduce reliance on fertiliser nitrogen. In this study, effects of diversity on weed suppression were consistently strong across mixtures varying widely in species' proportions and over time. The level of weed biomass did not vary greatly across mixtures varying widely in proportions of sown species. These diversity benefits in intensively managed grasslands are relevant for the sustainable intensification of agriculture and, importantly, are achievable through practical farm‐scale actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]