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Nurseries and greenhouses face challenges of limited water supply and increased demand for irrigation efficiency to minimize runoff and mitigate water loss to the environment. Overhead irrigation systems are among the most widely used methods for container plants, particularly in small container sizes. However, there is a lack of research examining the distribution uniformity (DU) of the most used sprinklers in nursery settings. Our study investigated the DU of different overhead sprinkler types and models commonly used in outdoor nurseries in the United States to guide greater adoption of higher irrigation efficiency technology. Catch-can experiments compared ten different sprinkler models in small (4.6 m × 4.6 m) and large (9.1 m × 9.1 m) square experimental plots in Irvine, California. We measured water volume, wind speed, and operating pressure, and calculated the application rate for 189 test runs conducted between Mar 2020 and May 2023. Our results show that of the models tested, the greatest DU was achieved by the Hunter MP2000 at 276 kPa (DU = 0.78 ± 0.05) in the small spacing, and the Senninger Xcel Wobbler with a 3.97 mm nozzle at 172 kPa (DU = 0.76 ± 0.06) in the large spacing. Wind speed and operating conditions affected the DU and spatial uniformity of irrigation among the ten models, highlighting the importance of maintaining operating pressures at the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure optimal application rates and DU. Together these results offer a quantitative comparison of sprinkler performance at different operating pressure and in a wide range of wind speeds, allowing users to select sprinkler models that best fit their operation and maximize water conservation. • Compared distribution uniformity (DU) of impact, geared rotor, wobbling sprinklers. • Hunter MP2000, Senninger Xcel wobbler had the highest DU at lowest operating pressure. • DU of most sprinklers was significantly negatively correlated with wind speed. • Small test plot size created artifacts in relationship between DU and application rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An overview of trends in seedling and transplant production has been carried out. • Statistical, mathematical, and clustering tools were used to analyse bibliometrics. • Sustainable growing media optimize resources and reduce input use. • Grafting and LED lighting are now common techniques in seedlings production. • Nutripriming and biostimulants promote sustainable vegetable nutritional quality. Nowadays, sustainable and resilient cultivation techniques have significantly increased in vegetable cultivation. Thus, there is a growing demand for high-quality certified planting materials suitable for these new cultivation methods. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of recent sustainable practices in vegetable seedling nurseries. Here, we thoroughly analysed 604 articles and 3553 keywords from the Scopus database, utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods, covering the past 20 yr. We conducted a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer software. to identify the most relevant study topics. The design of seed trays, seed enhancement treatments, and controlled environmental conditions are crucial for generating optimal seedlings and transplants. Additionally, sustainable growing media are necessary to optimize resources and reduce input use. We identified grafting and LED lighting technology as rapidly advancing technologies in seedling production. Furthermore, applying biostimulants and beneficial microorganisms as booster agents can enhance efficiency and promote sustainable production. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the research trends for vegetable seedlings and transplants, underscoring the imperative for adopting sustainable practices within the nursery industry. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating which species are planted in active restoration initiatives is useful for identifying underrepresented species and functional groups, which in turn can inform and improve the practice and policies of forest restoration. The Atlantic Forest is one of the global hotspots for biodiversity conservation and a region where many forest restoration initiatives have been carried out in recent decades. We conducted a taxonomic and functional analysis of a database with 1073 forest restoration plantings implemented from 2002 to 2018 in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. We assessed how well restoration plantings represent the dispersal syndromes, successional groups, and the ratio of nitrogen-fixing, and threatened species, based on a comparison with 268 Atlantic Forest remnants. Comparisons were made for the entire biome as well as three subtypes: Atlantic Rainforest, Araucaria Forest and Seasonal Forest. We found 423 tree species planted in the restoration efforts, which represent less than 8 % of the Atlantic Forest tree flora. In comparison with the forest remnants, restoration plantings have a greater proportion of nitrogen-fixing tree species (17 % in plantings vs. 9 % in remnants) but underrepresent non-pioneer (67 % vs. 85 %), animal-dispersed (56 % vs. 74 %), and threatened species (18 species found in plantings vs. 83 in remnants). Our results indicate a bias towards N-fixing, non-animal-dispersed, and pioneer species in restoration plantings and towards using the same set of species across different regions of the Atlantic Forest. We recommend actions to increase the representation of the native tree flora in Atlantic Forest restoration plantings, especially concerning inclusion of animal-dispersed and threatened species and groups of species that are less likely to colonize restoration sites, such as large-seeded animal-dispersed species. • Atlantic Forest tree plantings differ from remnant forest in composition and function. • Less animal-dispersed and threatened trees and more N-fixers and pioneers are planted. • Plantings are compositionally homogenous across diverse biogeographic regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The aim of this study was to assess the degree of conformity with food safety hygiene requirements in children's nurseries in Warsaw over a period of 11 years and to predict the expected time to achieve full conformity. The survey was carried out in 55 nurseries using a specially designed check list containing questions regarded GMP/GHP and HACCP documentation and practice. The results showed that the level of compliance with both GMP/GHP and HACCP standards was high in respect of documentation. However, it was much lower in the case of practice, especially HACCP. Although a constant increase in compliance with HACCP criteria was observed over the evaluated period, improvement was slow and inadequate. In 2017, compliance of HACCP practice reached only a 3.4 score. Based on food safety system improvements acquired so far, achievement of its full compliance with requirements was optimistically expected during 3 years. Regular monitoring of compliance level and prediction of its conformity are of practical importance to improve food safety system management and to indicate the corrective actions which are necessary to eliminate the risk. Highlights • 11 years lasting 55 nurseries' food safety system survey was described. • Documentation of food safety system was much better than practice. • Precise control check list was elaborated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of the scientific work presented in the World Health Organisation (WHO) report indicate that exposure to radon increases the risk of lung cancer in humans. In the past, radon concentrations of 400 Bq/m3 were considered dangerous, but today the level that poses a threat has been lowered to 100 Bq/m3. Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of ionising radiation. In the article, the exposure of children to the effects of radon was evaluated on the basis of measurements in nurseries taken in the course of several months. A pulsed ionisation chamber with a passive diffusion sampling method was used for the measurements. The effective dose was assumed as the evaluation criterion. The research was carried out in selected rooms of two nurseries located in the city of Poznań in Poland. Similar profiles of variability in radon concentration (r = 0.88, p < 0.001) were observed in two different nurseries. The higher values of radon concentration in the rooms were found to be influenced by the low value of the wind speed. The experimental studies were supplemented with questionnaire studies, which showed that the average person's awareness of radioactivity is at a low level. The results of the effective dose level can be used to optimise future radon testing in buildings intended for various purposes. [Display omitted] • Public awareness of radioactivity is at a relatively low level. • IAQ studies should take into account the variability of radon over time. • Annual variability of radon depends on the building, its use profile, and location. • Radon measurements with active meters are recommended for public buildings. • Higher indoor radon values will be influenced by low wind speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short-term variability in condition factor: relative condition factor Kn; biochemical condition: RNA:DNA and protein content; and instantaneous growth rates were determined in estuarine and coastal fish. Dicentrarchus labrax , Solea senegalensis and Pomatoschistus microps were sampled in the Tejo estuary, while Trachurus trachurus was sampled in an adjacent shallow coastal area. Variation of condition indices was more frequent at the week scale (sampling periods with fortnight intervals) than at the daily scale (consecutive days in each sampling period) in all species. Water temperature was correlated with biochemical indices, while salinity showed no effect, evidencing the influence of environmental short-term variation (temperature) on biochemical condition in natural populations. Yet, decreasing individual variability in fish condition was observed along the sampled weeks, resulting in a more homogeneous condition of populations, particularly for T. trachurus likely due to a more stable coastal environment. Biochemical indices proved to be sensitive to short-term environmental variability, despite species-specific responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many indoor air pollutants have been demonstrated to have a negative impact on occupants and due to physiological and behavioural differences, young children are more vulnerable to these effects than adults. Millions of children in the UK spend large parts of the day in nurseries, where occupant density is high, and indoor air quality can be poor. Therefore, it is imperative to understand the quality of indoor air in nurseries and how to improve it. The aims of the research presented here were to explore the indoor air quality (IAQ) in nurseries and the impact of both the use of air purifiers and window operations on IAQ. Three nurseries in London were selected and monitored via both continuous air quality sensors and passive sampling covering a total of 21 pollutants. Key findings include that mean reduction rate of PM 2.5 by using air purifier was 63% with window closed, and 46% with window open. The results also highlight the impacts of operational changes implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic. Windows were operated more frequently for ventilation needs rather than being driven by temperature alone. The increased ventilation in the monitored nurseries in London led to low levels of VOCs and aldehydes (except for formaldehyde and 2-ethylhexanol) but could bring thermal discomfort to occupants. Both temperature and noise levels were shown to be relevant factors impacting the operation of air purifiers. Air purifiers can be effective at reducing PM 2.5 when combined with proper window operation and have potential to bring substantial health benefits. • Mean reduction rate of PM 2.5 by using air purifier was 63% with window closed, and 46% with window open. • Windows were operated more frequently for ventilation needs rather than being driven by temperature during COVID-19. • The increased ventilation led to low levels of VOCs and aldehydes but could bring thermal discomfort in some circumstance. • Both temperature and noise levels were shown to be relevant factors impacting the operation of air purifiers. • Air purifiers can be effective at reducing PM 2.5 indoors when combined with proper window operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With 796,500 places available for children in England, pre-school nurseries could serve as an important setting for population-wide dietary intervention. It is critical to understand the determinants of healthy food provision in this setting, which may include access to food stores. This study examined the association between objective, GIS-derived supermarket proximity and fruit and vegetable serving frequency, using data from 623 English nurseries. Overall, 116 (18%) nurseries served fruits and vegetables infrequently (<2-3 times/week), but provision differed by supermarket proximity. In adjusted multivariable regression models, nurseries farthest from their nearest supermarket (Q5, 1.7-19.8km) had 2.38 (95% CI 1.01-5.63) greater odds of infrequent provision. Our results suggest that supermarket access may be important for nurseries in meeting fruit and vegetable provision guidelines. We advance a growing body of international literature, for the first time linking the food practices of institutions to their neighbourhood food retail context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental changes can alter the nursery function of coastal areas through their impact on juveniles' growth and survival rates, an effect mediated by individuals' chronic stress response. Fish chronic stress can be quantified using scale cortisol but no study has yet been quantified the spatio-temporal variations in scale cortisol and its relationship with growth in wild nurseries. We collected wild sea bass juveniles (Dicentrarchus labrax , four years, three nurseries) and found that scale cortisol levels increased consistently with age and across cohorts in 2019 and 2020 probably due to greater stress history in older fish and/or heatwaves that occurred in summers of 2018 and 2019. Growth was impaired in fish with high scale cortisol in 2019 and 2020, confirming the usefulness of scale cortisol as a biomarker of broad and local constraints in wild fish; longer time series will enable us to identify environmental factors underpinning these temporal variations. • Environment's effect on individuals' growth is mediated by their chronic stress • We measured scale cortisol in juvenile sea bass aged 1–4+ during 2017–2020 • Scale cortisol increased substantially in 2019 and 2020 in all nurseries/age • High scale cortisol was related to lower growth only in 2019 and 2020 • Scale cortisol might reflect local to broad-scale environmental constraints [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decline of monarch butterflies in both the eastern and western United States has garnered widespread public interest. Planting milkweeds, their larval host plants, has been promoted as one action individuals can take, but little is known with respect to potential pesticide contamination of store-bought milkweeds. In this study, we collected leaf samples from 235 milkweed plants purchased at 33 retail nurseries across the US to screen for pesticides. Across all samples, we detected 61 different pesticides with an average of 12.2 (±5.0) compounds per plant. While only 9 of these compounds have been experimentally tested on monarch caterpillars, 38 % of samples contained a pesticide above a concentration shown to have a sub-lethal effect for monarchs. We detected only a modest predictive ability of retailer size and milkweed species; and plants with labels advertising their value for wildlife did not have fewer pesticides at concentrations known to have a negative effect on monarchs. These results demonstrate the extensiveness of pesticide exposure within nursery milkweeds and the potential impacts on monarchs and other insects exposed to store-bought plants. • Milkweeds were collected from stores in the United States and screened for pesticides. • We detected multiple pesticides in every milkweed plant sampled. • Over one third of samples contained a pesticide at a known harmful concentration for monarchs. • Plants labeled as wildlife-friendly did not have fewer potentially harmful compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two strawberry nursery field trials comparing soil disinfection with different fumigants (metam sodium, dazomet, chloropicrin, chloropicrin +1,3D) and a steaming system exploiting the exothermic reaction between steam and CaO (Bioflash System™) were conducted in 2010–2012 to evaluate the effect of treatments on Verticillium dahliae Kleb. inhabiting the soil, and on plant health, growth and yield of strawberry daughter plants. Chemical fumigants and the Bioflash System™ decreased the number of V. dahliae colonies in the soil, which corresponded to reduced incidence of Verticillium wilt (efficacy about 80%). The use of chemical fumigants had a positive impact on the size of the mother plants. The surface area covered by plants grown on the treated plots was 1.1–1.7 times larger than plants grown on non-fumigated control plots. The number of runners, as well as daughter plants, produced from plants grown on plots treated with all chemical fumigants was significantly higher than in the non-fumigated control or in the plots treated with the Bioflash System™. The disinfection treatments significantly increased the yield of marketable daughter plants, approximately 1.5–3 times higher in comparison to plants grown on control plots. Steam disinfection with the Bioflash System™ was the least effective treatment in this respect. The differences in marketable plants yield among the chemical fumigants significantly affected the net marginal return and the return on investment of the crop. In this respect, the steam disinfection was economically efficient only in one season. The efficacy in controlling Verticillium wilt even with low doses of metam sodium and dazomet and their influence on yield and quality of daughter plants is confirming the feasibility of these fumigants for strawberry nursery management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Sphaerosporella brunnea is a pioneer and opportunist ectomycorrhizal species, and the most common fungal competitor in nurseries producing plants mycorrhized with Tuber species. Our objective was to learn more about its life cycle as the first step to manage its presence in greenhouses. Conidiation and formation of resting spore-like structures were found to be triggered by aeration and to be highest on CMA medium. In pot experiments S. brunnea was able to form ectomycorrhizas and ascocarps rapidly, in 2 and 3 months respectively, if substratum moisture was high. Both mycelia and conidiospores were effective sources of inoculum for mycorrhization. This species seems to be homothallic as apothecia have been obtained after inoculations with single monospore isolates. Propagation by mitospores and homothallism are poorly documented in ECM fungi, therefore these results may be of fundamental interest beyond the question of greenhouse management. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Human pressure on seashores has induced the installation of many seawalls. Artificial coastal defence structures may be providential for the juveniles of fish species exploited by artisanal fisheries. Focusing on Diplodus sargus, the number of settling juveniles was estimated on artificial structures and on natural rocky shores. The aim is to know if these artificial areas can have a nursery function. Densities of juveniles are from 30 to 109 times greater than those in natural habitats. Artificial coastal defence structures can be regarded as artificial nurseries. However, in the studied case, they also cause the loss of the nursery function of the nearby lagoon. The artificial seawalls at the entrance to the lagoon receive almost all the larvae that would normally enter the lagoon. This study underlines the important role of these artificial habitats in the life cycle of white seabream. They may have a positive impact on maintaining other species exploited by artisanal fisheries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: While ecological roles, ecosystem services and economic values of coral reefs worldwide are threatened by increasing anthropogenic and environmental pressures, the best management tools currently employed to offset reefs degradation do not achieve conservation objectives. There is therefore an urgent need to develop alternative instruments, focused on active management acts. In this study the applicability of an in situ coral intensive farming was tested, as first step of an active reef rehabilitation strategy, in the reefs of Singapore (China Sea, Western Pacific Ocean) that suffer from extreme sedimentation loads. About 3000 nubbins obtained from 13 coral species were farmed for 14months in situ in two nurseries, one placed close to fish-farm pens and the other located away from the direct influence of the fish-farm effluents. After one year of mariculture, average of coral survival rates was low (34%). Survivorship (loss resulted primarily from coral detachment, not coral death) significantly differed among species, and, within each species, between nurseries. Despite the adversities imposed by the rough environmental conditions, the survived nubbins showed high growth rates. Growth and 3D architectures of farmed colonies significantly varied among coral species and nursery locations. Results reported here indicate that the first step of the coral gardening is feasible also in reefs impacted by high sedimentation rates and support the idea that future integrated coastal management programs can successfully include in situ coral mariculture. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Containerized plant production represents an extremely intensive agricultural practice with large amounts of moisture and fertilizer application. Hydro-physical characteristics such as water infiltration, texture and structure, particle size distribution affect the quality of the media used in containerized agricultural systems and the water availability to plants. Water retention characteristics depend on particle size distribution as well as the composition of the media used. Materials with coarser particles allow faster percolation of water and also retain relatively higher amounts moisture per unit weight due to higher porosity, while draining faster due to smaller surface area per unit weight. Faster drainage can result into airflow through coarser materials causing the media to dry. The objectives of this study were to characterize the selected hydro-physical properties of plant growth media that are commonly used by nurseries in South Florida. Characterization of the plant growing media can allow modeling of soil–water interactions and development of best management practices for more efficient use of water and agrochemicals by nurseries. Experimental analyses were performed to characterize the plant growth mixtures in terms of particle size distribution and hydraulic conductivity using three different methods (i.e., constant head permeability, falling head permeability test, and tension infiltrometer test). The saturated hydraulic conductivity of the mixtures measured by constant head method ranged from 0.029 to 0.042cm/s (104–151cm/h) and by falling head method ranged from 0.078 to 0.112cm/s (281–403cm/h). The saturated hydraulic conductivity of the mixtures measured by tension infiltrometer ranged from 0.02 to 0.34cm/h. Understanding water retention and permeation characteristics of the plant growing media could assist development of best management practices (BMP) for containerized agricultural systems for efficient management of irrigation water and agrochemical use. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Habitat quality of a subarctic nursery ground in northern Norway for 0-group plaice Pleuronectes platessa was investigated by following settlement, mortality and growth during 2005 and 2006. Newly settled individuals were first observed in the end of May to early June and settlement lasted until mid-July. Densities peaked in early July and were comparable to those reported in temperate nursery grounds. Mortality estimates after settlement differed between 0.062d− 1 in 2005 and 0.025d− 1 in 2006. Potential predators appeared to be rather similar as those reported in other areas: the brown shrimp Crangon crangon, the shore crab Carcinus maenas and demersal fish species (gadoids). Population mean growth indicated linear growth until August leveling-off afterwards. 0-group plaice reached a lower mean size (5–6cm) at the end of the growing season than in temperate areas probably due to later settlement timing in combination with lower summer–autumn water temperatures. The comparison of observed growth rates with predictions of maximum growth models indicated a similar pattern as observed in temperate nursery grounds: Growth appeared to be maximal except for the period after summer. Whether or not this was related to changes in food quality throughout the season, to interspecies competition or to emigration remains to be elucidated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The incubator environment is essential for optimal physiological functioning and development of the premature infant but the infant is ultimately required to make a successful transfer from incubator to open cot in order to be discharged from hospital. Criteria for transfer lack a systematic approach because no clear, specific guideline predominates in clinical practice. Practice variation exists between continents, regions and nurseries in the same countries, but there is no recent review of current practices utilised for transferring premature infants from incubators to open cots. Objective: To document current practice for transferring premature infants to open cots in neonatal nurseries. Design: A descriptive, cross-sectional survey. Settings: Twenty-two neonatal intensive care units and fifty-six high dependency special care baby units located in public hospitals in Australia and New Zealand. Participants: A sample of 78 key clinical nursing leaders (nurse unit managers, clinical nurse consultants or clinical nurse specialists) within neonatal nurseries identified through email or telephone contact. Methods: Data were collected using a web-based survey on practice, decision-making and strategies utilised for transferring premature infants from incubators to open cots. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and crosstabs) were used to analyse data. Comparisons between groups were tested for statistical significance using Chi-squared or Fisher''s exact test. Results: Significant practice variation between countries was found for only one variable, nursing infants clothed (p =0.011). Processes and practices undertaken similarly in both countries include use of incubator air control mode, current weight criterion, thermal challenging, single-walled incubators and heated mattress systems. Practice variation was significant between neonatal intensive care units and special care baby units for weight range (p =0.005), evidence-based practice (p =0.004), historical nursery practice (p =0.029) and incubator air control mode (p =0.001). Differences in these variables were also found between nurseries in metropolitan and rural locations. Conclusions: Practice variation exists however; many practices are uniformly performed throughout neonatal nurseries in Australian and New Zealand. Commonality was seen between countries and in nurseries with a neonatal intensive care unit. Variation was significant between neonatal intensive care units and special care baby units and nurseries in metropolitan and rural locations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Twenty seven rhizobial strains associated with Acacia saligna grown in northern and southern Algeria were characterized, including generation time, host-range, the 16S rRNA gene and 16S–23S rRNA intergenic spacer restriction patterns, 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis and tolerance to salinity and drought. Cross inoculation tests indicated that 11 slow-growing isolates from northern nurseries were able to nodulate introduced Australian acacias exclusively, whereas 16 fast-growing isolates, mainly from southern nurseries, were capable of also nodulating native acacias. Restriction patterns and sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA gene showed that strains of the first group belonged to Bradyrhizobium while strains of the second group were related to Sinorhizobium meliloti and Rhizobium gallicum. Interestingly, five strains of the first group formed a distinct cluster phylogenetically close to Bradyrhizobium betae, a non-nodulating species causing tumour-like deformations in sugar beet roots. Bradyrhizobium strains were in general more sensitive to NaCl and PEG than the S. meliloti and R. gallicum representatives. Among the latter, strains S. meliloti BEC1 and R. gallicum DJA2 were able to tolerate up to 1M NaCl and 20% PEG. This, together with their wide host-range among Acacia species, make them good candidates for developing inoculants for A. saligna and other acacia trees growing in arid areas. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• New Zealand's nurseries have high species richness, growing 863 tree species. • More than 20 % of tree species grown in nurseries are native to New Zealand. • Differences in beta diversity among nurseries are scale dependent. Nurseries play an important role providing trees for a variety of managed environments including urban forests. The diversity of urban forests and forest restoration projects are influenced by nursery species availability, and as such, there is a need to better understand tree species diversity at nurseries. We collected tree species lists from 75 nurseries throughout New Zealand, which were used to describe species richness (alpha diversity) and to examine similarity in the composition of native and non-native species assemblages among nurseries (beta diversity) at three spatial scales: island, region, city. Together, the nurseries grew 863 species, 174 of which were native to New Zealand, from 312 genera and 130 families. Nurseries grew significantly more non-native species (μ = 63.5, σ = 60.6) than native species on average (μ = 31.7, σ = 22.7) (t = 2.99, df = 48.45, p = 0.004). Beta diversity for native and non-native tree species were only significantly different at the scale of cities or regions, not at the larger scale of islands. Few species were grown in all cities or all regions and the majority of those that were common were native species. In contrast, non-native species dominated the unique species at all spatial scales, (i.e., species uniquely grown in one city, region, or island). By quantifying tree species diversity in New Zealand's nurseries, this research provides a basis to better understand the influence that nurseries have on urban and peri-urban tree diversity, and ultimately how that diversity impacts resilience and the provision of ecosystem services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper explores the relationships between the spatial patterns of the distribution of the young hakes of the year (YOY) and the oceanographical features in two areas of the Central Mediterranean (the Ligurian Sea and the Strait of Sicily), characterised by the occurrence of straits and channels. Comparative and correlative approaches were used to investigate coupling between biological and physical patterns. Density indices of the YOY were derived from annual trawl surveys from 1994 to 2004 in spring and autumn. Mean patterns of the YOY distributions were compared with the mesoscale oceanographical features reported in literature. No evident trends in recruitment strength were found in either areas. Inter-annual variability in YOY abundance in the Ligurian Sea was higher than in the Strait of Sicily. The location of nursery grounds in the study areas coincides with zones of relatively higher production, where upwelling and other enrichment processes regularly occur. The presence of predictable eddies and the frontal systems play a major role in the localization of nursery areas in the Strait of Sicily, maintaining their stable position throughout the years. The strongest transport of southern waters from the Tyrrhenian to the Ligurian Sea, due to the East Corsica Current, which is negatively correlated to winter North Atlantic Oscillation, is associated with the highest abundance of hake recruits in the nurseries of the Northern Ligurian Sea. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In 1994, a directed fishing moratorium was declared for Grand Bank American plaice (Hippoglossoides platessoides) and yellowtail flounder (Limanda ferruginea) stocks because both stocks showed severe declines in abundance from heavy exploitation during the mid 1980s and early 1990s. Four years later, the fishery for yellowtail re-opened while the plaice stock has shown little recovery and the moratorium is still in effect. To assess the possible causes of the differences in recovery between species, we examined the spatial structure and environmental characteristics of the continental shelf nursery habitats of plaice and yellowtail, and their relationship to recruitment variability and overall population size. Depth plays a major influential role determining the spatial pattern and the abundance of juveniles of both species and in the case of plaice the spatial structure of the adult population also determines the amount of nursery area utilised by juveniles. Recruitment variability was higher in plaice than in yellowtail. We found year class synchrony in both species indicating that common environmental conditions and/or biological processes are affecting recruitment in a similar manner. Density-dependent regulation appears to be more severe in yellowtail and this should contribute to a more stable population when compared to plaice. These results are discussed in terms of resiliency of both stocks to over-exploitation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Support to farmer nurseries is classified as either “hard” referring to material inputs (tree seed, water, inoculum, tools and fencing) or “soft” (information, training and backstopping advice). Against a background of poor services for smallholder farmers in southern Africa, it was hypothesized that a number of support agents operating at the grass root level together with farmers themselves provide the different support functions needed in farmer nurseries. A study was conducted to evaluate the role of support systems in farmer nurseries in Malawi, Zambia and Tanzania. Furthermore, the early tree planting impact of farmer nurseries was assessed in Malawi. Support for hard inputs came largely from single service providers, with significant and increasing contributions coming from farmers themselves. Soft inputs came from a larger diversity of providers with collaborative effort gaining importance. There is an urgent need to facilitate grassroot level support systems with larger participation from the private sector for tree seed and from the national extension services for provision of training and backstopping advice. It was noted that individual nurseries achieved larger transplanting impact, but this did not translate into higher impact at the landscape level, because group nurseries were the predominant type. Strengthening the human capital of farmers and service providers emerged as critical in increasing impact. Farmer nurseries are shown to play a number of important and interrelated functions in building natural, human and social capital. Monitoring and evaluating farmer nurseries in catalyzing these three functions should therefore receive proper attention in assessing the impact of sustainable land use systems. Policies need to be articulated to address some of the major constraints identified. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We studied the patterns of seasonal variability in hake recruitment by means of quarterly surveys conducted over the shelf and the upper slope of the Catalan coast (50–350 m depth), with the aims of establishing the areas where hake recruitment is important throughout the year, and determining the environmental factors of the sea-floor characterising the habitat of hake recruits. In addition to sampling juvenile hake, we sampled its trophic resource (mainly suprabenthos and zooplankton) with a Macer-GIROQ sledge sampler, and we determined the characteristics of the sediment: temperature, redox potential, organic matter contents, carbonate contents and grain size. Hake juveniles were found between 60 and 160 m depth in autumn and winter, while in spring and summer their depth range extended down to 300 m depth. A multiple analysis of variance (MANOVA) model with interactions was used to partition the variability in hake recruits density. Season and depth stratum were the main factors accounting for the variability in hake recruitment. Well-defined nursery areas were apparent between 68 and 168 m depth, but the density in nursery areas was not different from the density in occasional nursery areas. Some sediment variables (redox potential and organic matter contents) were statistically different in nursery areas and in occasional nursery areas, indicating that juvenile hake recruit on bottoms where food resources are enhanced. The vagile macrofauna (mainly mysids and euphausiids), which constitute the main trophic resource of juvenile hake, did not overlap spatially with the main nursery areas, as they were found in higher concentrations over the 200 m depth isobath. This suggests that juvenile hake and their main food resource are spatially uncoupled, at least during daytime, when both sets of samples were obtained. Establishing nursery areas for heavily exploited stocks such as hake in the Catalan sea are a valuable tool for fisheries management. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Simulation of fish larval dispersal from coastal spawning areas to estuaries. • Analysis of 4 species over 20 years (1989–2008) along the Western Iberian coast. • High intra- and interannual variability in larval dispersal and recruitment. • Average recruitment estimated between 1.7% and 7.3% of released larvae. • Recruitment and connectivity patterns differed in "cold" and "warm" year archetypes. • Higher recruitment and larval transport in "warm" years for three out of four species. Connectivity between spawning grounds and recruitment areas of marine fish species drives population structure and dynamics, and may be affected by climate-induced changes in oceanographic processes. We analysed the variability in recruitment success of larvae to estuarine nursery areas along the Iberian Atlantic coast of four fish species with distinct spawning grounds and periods (Solea solea , Solea senegalensis , Platichthys flesus and Dicentrarchus labrax). Concomitantly, we explored the variations in connectivity patterns between "cold" and "warm" year archetypes. We used a three-dimensional Lagrangian transport particle-tracking model integrating time series of velocity, temperature and salinity fields archived from the Regional Ocean Modelling System. We simulated individual larval dispersal, over extended spawning periods, from multiple coastal spawning areas to estuarine recruitment areas over 20 years (1989–2008). Overall, high inter- and intra-annual variation were found for all species. Nonetheless, highest overall average recruitment estimates were obtained for S. solea and D. labrax (with 7.3% and 5.7% of the particles released in spawning areas reaching a recruitment area, respectively) compared to S. senegalensis and P. flesus (3.4% and 1.7%, respectively). Recruitment estimates were overall higher at earlier spawning dates but peak values occurred at later spawning events. Regarding spawning origin, particles that recruited to the northern part of the Iberian coast were mainly from southern source areas. For estuarine systems located in southern Portugal, the relative contributions of northern and southern coastal spawning areas were more balanced, or with a preponderance of northern spawning areas (namely for S. senegalensis and D. labrax). Recruitment was higher in "warm" years compared to "cold" years, except for P. flesus for which nil recruitment was registered in the southern Iberian coast during "warm" years. Larvae also travelled farther in "warm" years compared to "cold" years. Ultimately, understanding how oceanographic conditions govern larval recruitment to estuarine nursery areas is pivotal to forecast the potential impacts of climate change on species with segregated life histories, and will underpin long term management and safeguarding of estuarine nursery role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal ecosystems are increasingly threatened by a wide range of human activities. Fish otolith chemistry, by creating a unique specific signature, can be used as a natural tag for determining life stage dispersal, spatial connectivity and population structure. In this study, we tested whether differences in otolith composition among juveniles of gilthead sea bream, Sparus aurata , could enable their proper allocation to polluted areas based on higher concentrations of elements related to contaminants. Otoliths were embedded, sectioned and analysed by LA-ICP-MS in line scan mode. Multivariate analysis confirmed clear separation between sites and elements. Samples from the site under the strongest anthropogenic impact from industrial and agricultural river input were characterized by higher values of Pb/Ca and Zn/Ca. However, these relatively low values likely do not have a negative effect on S. aurata recruitment, though they could serve for identifying the contribution of polluted nurseries to stock dynamics. • Otolith elemental fingerprints discriminate between nurseries exposed to pollution. • Highest values of Pb/Ca and Zn/Ca were found in otolith cores. • In otoliths, Zn was accumulated continually and Pb in discrete portions. • Pb and Zn values measured do not likely have a negative effect on recruitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Majella National Park in Italy, through its ex situ plant conservation facilities (seed bank, botanical gardens and nurseries) plays an important role in preventing biodiversity loss, especially those rare and endemic species. Among the various conservation strategies, the Park developed a useful way to increase ex situ collections through a nursery chain and selling/giving indigenous species to the local people and community also for ornamental purposes. To date, more than 500 individuals of indigenous species are given every year. This spread of native plants contributes to the diffusion of the rare and endemic species in the protected area and its surroundings enhancing their survival chances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]