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Decolonization created new opportunities for international scientific research collaboration. In Indonesia this began in the late 1940s, as Indonesian scientists and officials sought to remake the formerly colonial botanical gardens in the city of Bogor into an international research center. Indonesia sponsored the Flora Malesiana project, a flora of all of island Southeast Asia. This project was formally centered in Bogor, Indonesia, with participation from tropical botanists from around the world. The international orientation of Indonesian science led to the establishment of one of UNESCO's Field Science Co-operation Offices in Jakarta, and to a period of close collaboration between Indonesian botanists and UNESCO. This paper examines the importance of UNESCO's Humid Tropics research program, which initially provided further opportunities for Indonesian botanists to participate in international scientific networks. The paper concludes by showing that the Humid Tropics program led to the slow erosion of Indonesian agency and authority over tropical botany, and the assertion of Western control and management over tropical botany research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process of ensuring accurate and efficient collection and preservation of physical evidence is known as crime scene management. Incriminating evidence can be strongly supported during criminal investigations by forensic botany. This article aims to show how crucial the role of forensic botany can be at crime scenes. When crime scene and autopsy findings are insufficient to determine the dynamics and mode of death, botanical evidence may come to the rescue. The use of plant studies in legal proceedings is known as forensic botany. In order to piece together evidence that will help solve serious crimes, including the cause of death, kidnapping, and murder, forensic botany uses evidence from plants and plant parts. Various subfields within forensic botany help solve criminal cases. Palynology is the study of pollen grains and spores, which can withstand degradation and can be used to confirm or reject a relationship between individuals, locations, and articles that are the subject of investigation in both criminal and civil cases. Moss shoots are easily attached to clothing and shoes, or even the human body, just as pollen grains, and may be useful to make connections between individuals and crime. DNA barcoding, which involves rapid species identification based on DNA sequences, and dendrochronology, which is the study of tree rings, are also useful as strong evidence. Though forensic botany has grown significantly in importance and is increasingly being applied to investigate crimes, greater awareness of the field and expertise are required. Forensic botany can also be taken up as a challenging career option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of botany following European expansion and the consequent increase of plants necessitated significant development in classification methodology, during the key decades spanning the late 17th to the mid-18th century, leading to the emergence of a "natural method." Much of this development was driven by the need to accurately identify medicinal plants, and was founded on the principle of analogy, used particularly in relation to properties. Analogical reasoning established correlations (affinities) between plants, moreover between their external and internal characteristics (here, medicinal properties). The diversity of plants, names, and botanical information gathered worldwide amplified confusion. This triggered the systematisation of the collection and referencing of data, prioritizing the meticulous observation of plant characteristics and the recording of medicinal properties as established by tradition: it resulted in principled methods of natural classification and nomenclature, represented by the genus, to enhance reliability of plant knowledge, which was crucial in medical contexts. The scope of botany increased dramatically, with new methods broadening studies beyond traditional medicinal plants. The failure of chemical methods to predict properties, particularly of unknown flora, amplified the reliance on analogy and on natural affinities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sharon Kingsland's book, "A Lab for All Seasons: The Laboratory Revolution in Modern Botany and the Rise of Physiological Plant Ecology," explores the development and impact of the phytotron on plant physiology, agriculture, and the emergence of physiological ecology as a scientific specialty. The phytotron, a laboratory complex consisting of greenhouses and controlled environmental chambers, was created by Dutch botanist Frits Went and designed to facilitate precise and controlled experiments on whole plants. Despite its successes, the Caltech phytotron faced challenges such as chronic underfunding and conflicting institutional priorities, leading to its closure in 1969. However, similar facilities were constructed worldwide, and Kingsland examines the diverse national contexts and research interests that shaped these phytotrons. She argues that the laboratory movement revolutionized botany and contributed to the synthesis of physiology and ecology, ultimately playing a crucial role in the field of physiological ecology and addressing the challenges of global climate change. [Extracted from the article]

Guilandinabonduc L. is popularly known as a fever nut that grows widely in evergreen forests and moist deciduous forests with a pantropical distribution. The plant is highly therapeutic in various systems of medicine, including Ayurveda, Siddha, and homeopathy. The purpose of this review is to analyze the published data on G. bonduc, including traditional uses, taxonomic position, botanical description, phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and toxicological assessment of its various parts. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies were the main focus of this review. The previously published research on G. bonduc was tracked from scientific databases such as Online Library, Google, Taylor and Francis, PubMed, Research Gate, Scopus, Springer, Wiley, Web of Sciences. Numerous phytochemical, pharmaceutical, and pharmacological studies have been carried out on the various parts of G. bonduc. To date, more than 97 phytochemicals have been isolated from the leaves, roots, stems, stem bark, flowers, twigs, and seeds of this plant. The phytochemicals isolated from the plants are flavonoids, homoisoflavonoids, terpenoids, diterpenoids, steroids, fatty acids, alkanes, acids, phenols, ketones, esters, amides, azides, silanes, and ether groups. This plant has been extensively studied in in vitro and in vivo pharmacological experiments, where it showed analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antidiabetic, abortive, anticataleptic, immunomodulatory, and antiestrogenic effects. This comprehensive review revealed that phytochemicals isolated from various parts of G. bonduc have significant therapeutic efficacy, with promising anticancer, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. This review provides a good source of information for the development of a drug using modern scientific tools, in view of its underexplored traditional uses. Further studies on preclinical and clinical trials and toxicological studies on the bioactive molecules of G. bonduc to validate its traditional uses are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypericum bilgehan bilgilii is a local endemic species distributed in Turkiye. Since the related species is endemic and there are grazing activities in its habitat, in vitro regeneration and in vitro cultures should be established. In addition, considering that the species may have medicinal properties similar to other Hypericum species, an effective in vitro regeneration method(s) should be found. For this reason, a more effective in vitro regeneration method has been established by using benzyl amino purine and 2,4 dichloro phenoxy acetic acid plant growth regulators (PGRs) for the first time in Hypericum bilgehan bilgilii. In this study, different concentrations and combinations of 2,4-D (0.3, 0.4, 0.5, and 1.0) and BAP (0.6, 0.8, 1.0, and 2.0) PGRs have been used for callus formation. It has been established that the best callus formation among the treatment groups occurs in MS supplemented with 0.8 mg L–1 BAP + 0.4 mg L–1 2,4-D. The best shoot growth has been found in MS medium containing 2.0 mg L–1 BAP. The best treatment group in root formation was MS supplemented with 1.0 mg L–1 IBA. It has been observed that the in vitro regenerated seedlings successfully adapted to the acclimatization stage. In the study, in vitro regeneration of Hypericum bilgehan-bilgilii using BAP and 2,4 D PGRs has been performed for the first time, and in vitro, cultures have been established for future plant biotechnology and in vitro conservation studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Plants living on gypsum are adapted to uptake nutrients in extremely poor alkaline soils. Under such extreme conditions, processes affecting the chemical conditions of the rhizosphere may be crucial for plant survival and growth. Rhizosphere acidification in plants living on gypsum soils has never been reported before and the effect of root exudation and microbes on the rhizosphere pH remains undescribed. Methods: In this study we cultivated seeds of the gypsum specialist Ononis tridentata in rhizoboxes with natural gypsum soil and with gypsum soil with reduced microbiota, and monitored changes in the rhizosphere pH with planar optodes coupled to a calibrated image recording system. Soil microbial life was estimated with PLFAs analyses and root exudation was characterised. Results: The reduced microbiota treatment decreased both fungal and microbial presence. Plants grown in natural soil, with unaltered presence of soil microbiota, had lower rhizosphere pH. However, in the microbial-reduced treatment we found higher root exudation of several organic acids and alcohols such as malonic and isocitric acids and sorbitol-mannitol. Interestingly, plant biomass was not significantly altered by treatments. Conclusion: The natural soil microbiota contributed to acidify alkaline gypsum soils, likely improving nutrient availability. However, O. tridentata seedlings grown in microbial-reduced soils seemed to compensate the effects of microbes through increased root exudation, attaining similar growth both in natural and microbial-reduced soils. These seedlings seemed to be adapted to soil where microbial abundance fluctuates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadaba fruticosa (L.) Druce (Capparaceae) is a pharmaceutically valuable woody shrub. Reproductive constraints (poor seed-setting, low seed germination, viability, and seedling survival) coupled with habitat disruption have caused decline in populations of this now endangered species. This paper reports an improved de novo shoot organogenesis using mature leaf–derived callus for the first time. Influence of plant growth regulators (PGRs), incorporation of additives, amending salts, and re-culturing of differentiated callus on shoot multiplication in C. fruticosa were studied. About 77% of leaf explants produced yellow-green, proliferative, and organized callus from the cut-ends on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 1.0 mg L−1 of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D). Leaf-derived regenerative callus optimally differentiated in multiple shoots on MS medium containing varied combinations of PGRs (0.25 mg L−1 kinetin [Kin], 0.5 mg L−1 6‑benzylaminopurine [BAP], and 0.1 mg L−1 α-naphthaleneacetic acid [NAA]). Anatomical analysis visualized meristematic centres (MCs) and emergence of meristemoids protuberances (MPs) from inoculated leaf explants. The incorporation of additives significantly enhanced shoot multiplication and promoted synchronous growth of shoot cultures. The leaf-derived callus showed 100% shoot differentiation and the highest number of shoots (48.61 ± 2.79) measuring shoot length (6.33 ± 0.43 cm) on POMAS (PGRs optimized medium with additives and salts) when differentiated callus was re-cultured for three passages. Hence, using the strategy of re-culturing the differentiated callus after harvesting shoots for six repeated passages, more than 200 shoots were obtained from 400 mg of callus. More than 83% of shoots exhibited ex vitro rooting after being pulse-treated (for 4 min) with 500.0 mg L−1 indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and subsequently transferred to microbe-free Soilrite®, moistened with aqueous ¼ MS salts. The rooted plantlets were hardened under the greenhouse conditions with more than 82% survival. Thus, the method developed here can be an alternative approach for propagation and conservation of C. fruticosa germplasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indian lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) is a popular ornamental plant and a source of traditional herbal medicine. Its various parts are widely used in the pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical, and nutraceutical industries. The recent study aimed to develop a high-frequency in vitro regeneration system in Indian lotus. This study utilizes the pink lotus cultivar from the Botanical Garden of CSIR-NBRI Lucknow. The study was successfully achieved through direct and indirect methods using different plant growth regulators (PGRs). A direct regeneration system was established using explants shoot apical meristem and plumule cultured on SIM supplemented with 17 combinations and concentrations of BAP and NAA. Both explants produced the highest number of shoots with a combination of 4.44 μM BAP and 0.55 μM NAA. The highest number of shoots per explant 25 ± 1.0 was developed from the shoot apical meristem, while the plumule explant developed 16.3 ± 0.5 shoots per explant. Thereafter, the plantlets were transferred to LRIM, which contained 17 combinations and concentrations of NAA or IBA and BAP. The maximum number of roots, per explant 23.6 ± 0.5, was developed from shoot apical meristem using 2.22 μM NAA and 0.54 μM BAP. The highest number of roots, per explant 23 ± 1.0, was developed from the plumule using 4.44 μM IBA. Indirect somatic embryogenesis has been established through callus culture. The leaf segments were cultured onto a callus induction medium supplemented with ten combinations of 2,4-D and BAP. The high-frequency callus formation 24.33 ± 0.5 was obtained with a 5.0 μM 2,4-D and 1.0 μM BAP combination. All developmental stages at the proembryo, globular, heart, torpedo, and mature embryos were formed on concentrations of 2,4-D and BAP. After inducing shoot and root growth, well-developed plantlets were transferred to the greenhouse, resulting in a success rate of 18.47%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Campanula leblebicii, discovered by Yıldırım, is found only in the village of Ovacık in the Kemalpaşa district of İzmir province, and it is one of the valuable endemic species for Turkey flora. Petiole and leaf explants were cultured on full-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 30.0 g L−1 sucrose; 4.0 g L−1 Gelrite; 0.3 mg L−1 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA); 0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, or 3.0 mg L−1 zeatin (ZEA); and 0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, or 3.0 mg L−1 6-benzyladenine (BA) for callus initiation. To obtain shoot formation, callus was transferred to full-strength MS medium containing 0.3 mg L−1 NAA; 0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, or 3.0 mg L−1 gibberellic acid (GA3); and 0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 mg L−1 BA. Efficient callus (93.33%) and shoot formation (73.33) were observed from petiole explants cultured on MS medium containing 0.3 mg L−1 NAA and 1.0 mg L−1 BA. Rooting was obtained spontaneously in all shoot initiation medium, but efficient rooting occurred on MS medium supplemented with 0.3 mg L−1 NAA and 1.0 mg L−1 BA. Plants were acclimatized to the pots including sterile peat and perlite (1:1, v/v), and, in total, 12 plants were acclimatized from one genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim: Root exudates are the main drivers of plant-microbes-soil interactions. There are several approaches to collect root exudates, but critical methodological evaluation remains limited. The goal of this study was to assess the effect of the applied sampling solution volume and to test the suitability of Micropur as microbial activity inhibitor during the exudate sampling process. Methods: Using Zea mays L. as model plant and the soil-hydroponic hybrid exudate sampling approach, we tested the effect of different sampling solution volumes and different Micropur concentrations on maize root exudation. Additionally, a sterile hydroponic-only experiment was conducted to monitor potential effects of Micropur on maize physiology. Photometric and LC-TOF-MS analyses were used to reveal the effect of different conditions on root exudation and plant stress response. Results: Our results demonstrated that both, the sampling volume as well as the presence or absence of microbial activity inhibitor can significantly affect obtained exudation results. Carbon exudation rates were underestimated when using a small sampling volume relative to the root biomass. Even though the overall C exudation was minimally affected by microbial degradation, the addition of Micropur (≥ 5 mg L−1) significantly reduced the decomposition of 14C citric acid. Maize plants did not show any stress symptoms upon exposure to different concentrations of MP but root membrane permeability and exudation were negatively affected when using MP concentrations >5 mg L−1. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the importance of thoroughly evaluating experimental procedures and delivers relevant insights supporting future experimental designs targeting root exudates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rubus ellipticus Smith. (Family Rosaceae), often known as the yellow Himalayan raspberry (Yellow Hissar), is one of the most widely used edible fruits in Indian folk medicinal systems. The current review aims to identify the gap between research and existing applications of this fruit to help scientists explore the current trends and opportunities for future development. Fruits of R. ellipticus are the source of several classes of compounds. Fruits of R. ellipticus are also rich in nutrients such as carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It has been shown to have significant medical value in a variety of studies, including as an anti-diabetic, nephroprotective, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, antitumor, wound healing, antifertility, oviposition deterrent, antibacterial, and antioxidant. Fruits of R. ellipticus have been the subject of several in vitro and in vivo investigations, all of which have corroborated their wide range of biological activities and demonstrated their potential for the identification of new therapeutic candidates and the development of innovative herbal food supplements. Additional mechanism-based pharmacological evaluation and clinical research should provide an adequate scientific basis for the traditional usage of R. ellipticus fruits, which is currently not sufficiently supported by the available research on its active components and molecular mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a botanical career that has spanned more than 35 years – almost all that time based at The New York Botanical Garden –, Wm. Wayt Thomas has participated in over 100 field expeditions and published almost 200 scientific works including two edited volumes, advised or co-advised 15 doctoral students, and became one of the world authorities on the systematics of the Cyperaceae. His research programs set down roots in Brazil, where his work has led to major advances in our knowledge of the flora of the Atlantic Coastal Forests and had significant impacts on conservation in that region. He has held leadership positions in the Organization for Flora Neotropica and the Species Plantarum Project. He has made perhaps his greatest contributions in forging productive international scientific collaborations and in mentoring young scientists who are becoming leaders in the botanical community – and who attest to his pivotal impacts on their professional lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban natural science consists of many fields. We consider urban plant science (urban botany) to be one of the main branches of urban natural sciences and urban biology. Urban plant science (urban botany) is a discipline studying urban vegetation. Some areas of urban plant science are also developing as applied disciplines. Urban forestry and urban horticulture are important trends. We consider urban botany as a field that includes all urban plant sciences. Urban botany is relevant area in the concept of urban natural sciences. There are many studies on urban plant biology. Urban plants have many beneficial functions, including phytoremediation and aesthetic properties, microclimate improvement, and impact on biodiversity. The main objectives of urban plant science are: the study of urban plants and plant communities of urban ecosystems; the effect of urban environment on plants; the increase of plant resistance to the urban environment; the selection of plant species and varieties for urban greening. Urban botany can be considered as an academic discipline. We believe that in the future it may be possible to train specialists in a new direction of "Urban Natural Science". Urban botany will be one of the leading academic disciplines in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial biotechnology employs techniques that rely on the natural interactions that occur in ecosystems. Bacteria, including rhizobacteria, play an important role in plant growth, providing crops with an alternative that can mitigate the negative effects of abiotic stress, such as those caused by saline environments, and increase the excessive use of chemical fertilizers. The present study examined the promoting potential of bacterial isolates obtained from the rhizospheric soil and roots of the Asparagus officinalis cultivar UF-157 F2 in Viru, la Libertad, Peru. This region has high soil salinity levels. Seventeen strains were isolated, four of which are major potential plant growth–promoting traits, and were characterized based on their morphological and molecular characteristics. These salt-tolerant bacteria were screened for phosphate solubilization, indole acetic acid, deaminase activity, and molecular characterization by 16S rDNA sequencing. Fifteen samples were from saline soils of A. officinalis plants in the northern coastal desert of San Jose, Lambayeque, Peru. The bacterial isolates were screened in a range of salt tolerances from 3 to 6%. Isolates 05, 08, 09, and 11 presented maximum salt tolerance, ammonium quantification, phosphate solubilization, and IAA production. The four isolates were identified by sequencing the amplified 16S rRNA gene and were found to be Enterobacter sp. 05 (OQ885483), Enterobacter sp. 08 (OQ885484), Pseudomonas sp. 09 (OR398704) and Klebsiella sp. 11 (OR398705). These microorganisms promoted the germination of Zea mays L. plants, increased the germination rates in the treatments with chemical fertilizers at 100% and 50%, and the PGPRs increased the height and length of the roots 40 days after planting. The beneficial effects of salt-tolerant PGPR isolates isolated from saline environments may lead to new species that can be used to overcome the detrimental effects of salt stress on plants. The biochemical response and inoculation of the three isolates prove the potential of these strains as sources of products to develop new compounds, confirming their potential as biofertilizers for saline environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is the third most important pulse crop grown worldwide. Sclerotinia sclerotiorum causes damping-off and stem rot diseases, leading to significant economic losses in chickpea crop yield. Biological control has proved to be an effective alternative for managing plant diseases. Results: These pathogenic fungi were isolated from different governorates in Egypt and differed in terms of their pathogenicity on Giza 3 cv.-chickpea plants in vivo. S. sclerotiorum Sakha-S1 with accession No. (PQ558663) was the most aggressive isolate. Trichoderma atroviride was the most effective fungal bioagent in vitro since recorded the highest S. sclerotiorum growth decrease, followed by T. hamatum and T. harzianum; meanwhile, Serratia sp. was the least effective isolate. In greenhouse conditions, Topsin M-70® emerged as the most successful treatment for reducing disease prevalence. Combinations of microbial bioagents specifically all four (T. atroviride, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus polymyxa, and Serratia sp.) and a combination of three (P. fluorescens, B. polymyxa, and Serratia sp.) followed in effectiveness. Serratia sp. applied alone proved to be the least effective treatment. The same results were obtained in a two-year field study (2020–2021 and 2021–2022) and assessed the impact of various treatments on chickpea disease, growth, and yield components. Interestingly, all the microbial bioagents substantially enhanced chickpea growth parameters, including plant height, number of branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per plant, seed weight per plant, average weight of 100 seeds, and overall chickpea yield. The role of these microbial bioagents in the defense of oxidation enzymes (Peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, and catalase) associated with defense-related genes (ABR18, PRP, and PR-4) which shown notable variations in gene expression levels of defense-related genes due to treated with various microbial bioagents after 14 days from application. All three genes were up-regulated in combinations including (P. fluorescens + Serratia sp.), (T. atroviride + P. fluorescens), and (T. atroviride + Serratia sp.), demonstrating a collaborative impact on defense gene expression. Conclusion: The study investigated the effectiveness of microbial bioagents against chickpea stem rot disease, their role in the defense of oxidation enzymes and defense-related genes, and their impact on growth and yield components. It will focus on producing commercial biofungicides to minimize the use of fungicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there has been a growing interest in the application of beneficial microorganisms to enhance crop performance. Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense (MSR-1) are spiral-shaped, gram-negative bacteria that exhibit magnetotaxis with the help of magnetosomes (iron oxide or iron sulphide). They have exhibited biomedical and environmental applications; however, the agricultural utilization of these strains is yet to be explored. This study investigates the nitrogen fixation, iron supplementation, and plant growth promotion (PGP) activity of MSR-1 on Vigna radiata (Green gram). Firstly, agriculturally important genes including nif (360 bp), fur (480 bp), and feoB (675 bp) were identified in MSR-1. Further, the strain was used to produce the Magnetospirillum Liquid Biofertilizer (MLB) and analyzed using GC–MS and LC-HRMS to identify beneficial compounds for agriculture. The findings indicated the presence of biostimulant compounds including proline, indole-3-acetic acid, koninginin, and glutamate. Furthermore, different dilutions (20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%) of MLB were supplemented to V.radiata to explore its nitrogen-fixing capacity, iron enhancement effects, plant growth and yield. Plants treated with 20% MLB exhibited a significant increase in plant length (85.6%), seed weight (74.5%), total chlorophyll content (58.3%), protein (95.91%), leaf nitrogen content (71.72%) compared to the control group treated with distilled water. Under iron deficiency conditions, 60% MLB improved the plant length (70.38%), seed weight (66.6%), total chlorophyll (84.16%), protein (66.19%), iron content of leaves (80.79%) compared to the control group. The findings indicate that MSR-1 enhances plant productivity and it can be used as a source of iron fertilizer for addressing iron deficiency in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) are among the most promising alternatives to mineral fertilizers. However, little is known about the effects of applied bacteria on the native microbiota, including the rhizobacterial community, which plays a crucial role in bacteria-plant interactions. Therefore, this study is aimed at assessing the effects of PGPB not only on plants but also, importantly, on the native rhizobacterial community of winter oilseed rape. The bacterial consortium, consisting of Pseudomonas sp. KR227 and Azotobacter PBC1 (P2A), slightly promoted plant growth, increasing the root weight by 21.95% and seed yield by 18.94%. This likely results from its ability to produce indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), solubilize phosphorus, and fix nitrogen, as indicated by a 35.76% increase in N-NH4 and a 35.05% increase in available phosphorus (AP). The introduced PGPB altered the rhizobacterial community of rapeseed, increasing the relative abundance of the phylum Proteobacteria and the genus Pseudomonas while decreasing the relative abundance of phylum Verrucomicrobiota (3 weeks after inoculation). Moreover, Proteobacteria were positively correlated with AP, while Verrucomicrobiota were correlated with N-NH4. At the genus level, Flavobacterium and Pseudomonas were positively correlated with AP, whereas Candidatus Udaeobacter showed a positive correlation with N-NH4 and a negative correlation with pH. Importantly, the P2A consortium did not significantly affect the diversity of native rapeseed rhizobacteria. These findings suggest that the tested P2A consortium has potential as a biostimulant in rapeseed cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Malveae tribe (Malvaceae), the axis supporting the flower has a joint at the upper third. This axis can be considered as an articulated pedicel, peduncle, peduncle-pedicel, or anthopodium. Such disparity in terminology reveals a duality in interpretation since this structure is classified as part of the inflorescence or part of the flower. In an effort to reach a consensus, this study aims to evaluate axes supporting the flowers of species from the Malveae tribe through ontogenetic, morphological, and histochemical analyses, using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Ontogenetic analyses indicated that the axis supporting the flower is an articulated pedicel, which is divided into proximal and distal parts owing to the presence of the constriction (joint). Simultaneously, the articulated pedicel arises from the floral meristem, along with the establishment of the calyx and androecium. As development progresses, we observed frequent abscissions of the floral bud, along with the distal portion of the pedicel, at the joint. After this, the remaining proximal portion of the pedicel becomes secretory, as an extrafloral nectary, often foraged by ants of the genus Wasmannia. Thus, this ontogenetic analysis of the articulated pedicel helps in understanding its functionality and morphological variability, highlighting the importance of standardized terminology since it would lead to conceptual clarity in different studies. Additionally, this study, for the first time, reveals the presence of extrafloral nectaries on articulated pedicels in Malveae, a previously undocumented feature in Malveae and Malvaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming and declining rainfall in recent years have led to increased water and soil salinity in Iran agricultural lands. To address these challenges, greenhouse cultivation, particularly soilless culture, emerges as a critical solution for mitigating the effect of soil salinity and water scarcity on vegetable plant production in Iran. The aim of this experiment was to compare the growth and physiological responses of cucumber plants cultivated in both soil and soilless systems, using three distinct nutrient solutions. With this purpose, a factorial experiment carried out with two factors of cultivation system (Soil cultivation and soilless cultivation) and nutrient solution (Hoagland, Papadopoulos, and Commercial) in a completely randomized design with three replications in greenhouse conditions. Cucumber seeds of the Nagene 792 F1 variety were sown in cultivation trays filled with a mixture of perlite and cocopeat (in a 1:1 ratio) to produce seedlings, which were then placed in the growbag with the same substrate in greenhouse environment. Additionally, in soil-based cultivation, the seeds were first sown in cultivation trays and then transferred to 10-L pots containing soil medium. The results of this study showed that the soilless culture system increased vegetative and reproductive characteristics such as plant height (13%), number of nodes (9.4%), internode distance, number of leaves, leaf area (31.45%), fresh and dry mass of shoots, fresh (21%) and dry (33%) mass of roots, number of flowers (9.4%), number of fruits (10.12%), and fruit diameter (19.5%) in cucumber plants. Soilless cultivation increased the yield per plant and cultivation area (52%). The photosynthetic pigments (27.5% and 49.18% for Chl a and b, respectively), and fruit quality traits including fruit appearance color (the components a (16.42%), b (19.44%), and L (1.87%), hue angle (32.74%), and chroma (15.13%)), total soluble solids (TSS) (7%) and vitamin C (31.85%) increased compared to soil-grown plants. The results showed that the percentage of flower fall in soil-grown plants was higher than the plants in soilless medium. Hoagland nutrient solution had a more significant effect on increasing these parameters than other nutrient solutions. Although, the highest flowering rate was observed in nutrient solution of Hochmat and Papadopoulos. Overall, soilless cultivation using the Hoagland nutrient solution significantly enhanced growth and yield characteristics, as well as both the quantitative and qualitative traits of the fruit and physiological characteristics, compared to the other treatment methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of human activities, surface waters worldwide are experiencing increasing levels of eutrophication, leading to more frequent occurrences of microalgae, including harmful algal blooms. We aimed to investigate the impact of decomposing camelina straw on mixed phytoplankton communities from eutrophic water bodies, comparing it to the effects of barley straw. The research was carried out in 15 aquaria (five of each type – containing no straw, camelina straw, and barley straw). The experiment lasted eight weeks, and the water used in the aquaria was sourced from an eutrophic reservoir. Our research revealed that the camelina straw had the most significant inhibitory effect on the growth of specific groups and species of phytoplankton (especially chrysophytes, potentially toxic cyanobacteria, and dinoflagellates). This inhibition was achieved by releasing polyphenols, primarily gallic and caffeic acids and flavonoids. Simultaneously, polyphenols promoted the growth of filamentous green algae. Our findings present novel data on the vulnerability of freshwater species and taxonomic groups of algae to the effects of camelina and barley straw exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytes isolated from seaweeds emerge as promising biocontrol agents against broad spectrum of plant diseases. The endophytic bacteria were isolated from the seaweed (Sargassum wightii) to manage the chilli fruit rot pathogen Fusarium incarnatum. The antifungal activity of the isolated bacteria was tested by dual culture assay and plant growth-promoting activity was also tested by the standard paper towel method. The biocontrol strain AUPP displayed strong antifungal against Fusarium incarnatum (80.23%) and plant growth-promoting activity including seed germination (97.60%) and vigour index (1287.34) under in-vitro conditions. The identity of the endophytic bacteria was established through whole genome sequence analysis which showed promising biocontrol and plant growth-promoting activity. Whole genome sequence analysis of the biocontrol Bacillus halotolerans strain AUPP revealed the genomic information including 4,166,288 bp genome size, 18 contigs and 43.6% GC content. Genome analysis revealed the 15 secondary metabolite regions associated with the production of secondary metabolites and genes responsible for the antifungal activity. Furthermore, we identified multiple antibiotics, multidrug-resistant genes and a CRISPR sequence. This study presents the first whole genome sequence of B. halotolerans isolated from seaweed in India. These findings highlight its potential for broad-spectrum plant disease control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of in situ plant response and adaptation to complex environmental stresses, are crucial for understanding the mechanisms of formation and functioning of ecosystems of anthropogenically transformed habitats. We study short- and long-term responses of photosynthetic apparatus (PSA) and anti-oxidant capacity to complex abiotic stresses of common plants Calamagrostis epigejos and Solidago gigantea in semi-natural (C) and heavy metal contaminated habitats (LZ). We found significant differences in leaf pigment content between both plant species growing on LZ plots and their respective C populations. The average values of leaf chlorophyll indexes were 27% lower in the LZ populations of both species and significantly lower in Sg plants in comparison to Ce ones. The average values of the anthocyanin index in CeLZ and SgLZ populations were significantly higher (by 18%) than in their respective controls. In both Ce and Sg plants occurring on LZ plots, the average leaf flavonol indexes were higher than on their controls by 31% and 15% and this index was significantly higher in SgLZ population than CeLZ and CeC plants (by 34% and 54%, respectively). Both Ce and Sg populations growing on LZ plots showed significantly lower photosynthetic rate (A), transpiration rate (E) and stomatal conductance (gs) in comparison to controls. On the other hand, a significantly higher photosynthetic rate was detected in SgLZ than in CeLZ populations. The catalase activities were significantly higher than recorded in Sg than in Ce tissues, irrespective of the plot type. They were also higher in LZ populations than those in controls for both species. Moreover, the H2O2 content in Sg tissues was significantly higher than those in Ce. Hydrogen peroxide content in CeLZ and SgLZ were respectively 39% (non-significant) and 57% higher, compared to their controls. The reverse pattern was found in the case of MDA, whose concentration was significantly higher in the leaves of Ce population compared to the control population. The average MDA concentration in CeLZ populations was 17% higher than in the CeC. In the case of Sg no significant differences were found. Mechanisms of plant species adaptation to industrial areas are crucial for species selection and planning effective reclamation of them. The analysis of chlorophyll fluorescence induction curves as well as well as the results of JIP test revealed the decreased of Fj value despite positive ΔK–band in SgLZ and CeLZ plants suggesting the increased rate of electron transfer from QA to QB at the acceptor side of PSII, thus a high quantity of P680+ and/or effective quenching by exogenous molecules. The increase in the I–P part of the induction curve typically attributed to the reduction of electron transporters (ferredoxin, intermediary acceptors, and NADP) of the PSI acceptor side was observed in both SgC and SgLZ but not in CeLZ populations. These changes demonstrate species-specific effects on electron transport during the light phase of photosynthesis under complex environmental stress. Our results show that Sg and Ce individuals developed a range of structural and functional adaptations to protect PSA against complex environmental stresses (possible combination of heavy metals, water deficiency, temperature, nutrient deficiency and salinity). Both species from LZ plots could tolerate high levels of Cd, Zn and Pb in leaf tissues. Therefore they can be potential candidates for use in phytoremediation of HM contaminated areas. However, further long-term field and experimental research on plant traits response and adaptation to complex environmental stresses on industrial habitats are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth regulators can improve the quality and production of fruit trees. This research was conducted over two successive years to evaluate the effect of preharvest sprays of growth regulators on the physicochemical properties of date palm fruit (Phoenix dactylifera cv. 'Shahabi') during khalal and tamar stages in a palm research station at Bushehr province. In the first year, fruit bunches of these trees were sprayed at the kimri stage, and in the second year at the kimri and hababouk + kimri stages, using NAA (100 mg/L), GA3 (100 mg/L), KI (100 mg/L), SA (50 mg/L), Put (1.288 × 103 mg/L), and distilled water as the control. Foliar spraying of 'Shahabi' date clusters with all plant growth regulators at the kimri stage did not have significant effects on traits such as length, diameter, weight and volume of the fruit compared to the control but, foliar spraying in the hababouk + kimri stage with NAA and to some extent Put caused a significant increase in these factors in the khalal and tamar stages. Foliar spraying with all growth regulators caused a significant increase in the weight of pulp in the khalal and tamar stages. With foliar application of Put, SA, GA3, and especially NAA, cluster weight and yield percent showed a significant increase compared to the control at the tamar stage. In general, the percentage of fruit drop in the foliar application of all growth regulators in the hababouk + kimri stage was significantly higher compared to the foliar application in the kimri stage. Foliar spraying in the kimri stage significantly reduced the fruit drop compared to the control but foliar application of NAA, GA3 and SA in the hababouk + kimri stage significantly increased the fruit drop compared to the control. Foliar spraying of all plant growth regulators in the kimri and hababouk + kimri stages caused a significant decrease in the percentage of TSS as well as the percentage of total carbohydrates compared to the control in the khalal and tamar stages. Foliar spraying with all plant growth regulators in the kimri and hababouk + kimri stages caused a significant increase in the TA percentage in khalal stage compared to the control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photosynthetic mechanism responsible for the differences in yield between different rapeseed varieties remains unclear, and there have been no consensus and definite conclusions about the relationship between photosynthesis and yield. Representation of the whole plant by measuring the photosynthetic performance at a single site may lead to biased results. In this study, we comprehensively analyzed the main photosynthetic organs of four high-yielding rapeseed varieties at the seedling, bud, flowering, and podding stages. The canopy photosynthetic parameters were derived by measuring the photosynthetic area, net photosynthetic rate, and chlorophyll content, and canopy photosynthetic capacity was used to evaluate the light utilization efficiency of different rapeseed varieties to establish the relationship between canopy photosynthetic traits and yield. The results showed that there were significant differences in photosynthetic traits among different parts of rapeseed plants. The photosynthetic trait parameters of the whole plant differed significantly when represented by leaves at different positions among different varieties, and different rapeseed varieties exhibited significantly different sensitivity to light intensity. The whole-plant study showed that the canopy photosynthetic capacity was the highest and second highest at the seedling and bud stage, respectively, both of which were closely and positively correlated with rapeseed yield, and ZY501 had higher canopy photosynthetic capacity than other varieties at these two stages due to its larger canopy photosynthetic area. Canopy chlorophyll content was also positively correlated with canopy photosynthetic capacity. These results indicated that investigation of photosynthetic characteristics at single sites in rapeseed might lead to biased results of photosynthetic capacity in different varieties, and provided a new evaluation index for studying the light utilization efficiency of rapeseed. Our results also clarified that canopy photosynthetic area has significantly greater contribution to canopy photosynthetic capacity than canopy photosynthetic efficiency, and provided a theoretical basis for investigating the photosynthesis mechanism underlying high crop yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onion is the most important and widely cultivated cash-generating crop in Ethiopia. Onion production is limited by several factors, and its production and productivity are low. Among the many contributing factors, a lack of improved cultivars and improper plant density are the major limiting factors. This study addressed the critical challenges of onion cultivation in Ethiopia, with a focus on the impact of planting density and onion cultivar. Three hybrid onion cultivars and one open-pollinated onion cultivar were evaluated at three testing sites (Koga, Woramit and Woreta) under irrigated conditions in 2021/2022 via a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results of the present study revealed that the growth and yield of onion plants were influenced by the main effects of plant density and onion cultivar across locations. The Russet and Jambar hybrid cultivar, which had a relatively high plant density, exhibited superior performance across all locations. They consistently presented the highest values for bulb diameter, average bulb weight, harvest index, firmness, total bulb yield and marketable bulb yield across all locations. The marketable bulb yield was positively correlated with the bulb weight and bulb diameter of the onion. The Russet (28.09 t ha− 1) and Jambar (26.61 t ha− 1) cultivars presented the highest marketable bulb yields and were generally superior in terms of most of the growth, yield and quality parameters. The highest marketable bulb yield (28.42 t ha− 1) was recorded for the onion cultivars in the higher plant population (666,666 plants ha− 1), in which the spacing was 5 cm × 20 cm × 40 cm between plants, rows and double rows. Accordingly, the use of hybrid onion cultivars (Russet and Jambar) along with higher plant populations (5 cm between plants × 20 cm between rows × 40 cm between double rows) enhances the productivity of onion in the study area and areas with similar agroecology. Since this study was the first of its kind in the study area, it is advisable to consider other hybrid onion cultivars with relatively high plant densities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity stress adversely affects wheat growth and productivity, necessitating effective mitigation strategies. This study investigates the combined impact of ascorbic acid (AsA), silver nanoparticles (NPs), and Salvadora oleoides aqueous leaf extract (LE) on wheat tolerance to salinity stress. A randomized complete design (RCD) was employed with fourteen treatments: T1 (5 mM AsA), T2 (10 mM AsA), T3 (20 ppm AgNPs), T4 (40 ppm AgNPs), T5 (5% S. oleoides LE), T6 (10% S. oleoides LE), T7 (20 ppm AgNPs + 5 mM AsA), T8 (20 ppm AgNPs + 10 mM AsA), T9 (40 ppm AgNPs + 5 mM AsA), T10 (40 ppm AgNPs + 10 mM AsA), T11 (20 ppm AgNPs + 5% S. oleoides LE), T12 (20 ppm AgNPs + 10% S. oleoides LE), T13 (40 ppm AgNPs + 5% S. oleoides LE), and T14 (40 ppm AgNPs + 10% S. oleoides LE). Wheat plants were subjected to salinity stress (SS) and no-stress conditions (NoSS) for 50 days. Chlorophyll content, DPPH activity, total soluble proteins and sugars, antioxidant enzyme activities, lipid peroxidation, leaf ion concentrations, and nutrient uptake were analyzed. Under SS, T6 (10% LE) showed the lowest chlorophyll-a (90.04%) and b (57.84%). DPPH activity was highest in NoSS with T9 (40 ppm NPs + 5 mM AsA) at 14.40%, and lowest in SS with T6 (10% LE) at 6.67%. Total soluble proteins and sugars were highest in NoSS with T9 (40 ppm NPs + 5 mM AsA) and T6 (10% LE). In SS, SOD activity peaked with T6 (10% LE) at 8.39 U/mg protein, while CAT activity was highest with T9 (40 ppm NPs + 5 mM AsA) at 6.25 U/mg protein. Lipid peroxidation was highest in SS with T6 (10% LE) at 14.67 µM MDA/g fresh weight. Leaf Na and Cl concentrations were highest in SS with T9 (40 ppm NPs + 5 mM AsA), at 14.26% and 44.15%, respectively. The combined application of 40 NPs and 5 AsA (T9) proved most effective in enhancing chlorophyll content and DPPH activity under NoSS, while 10% LE (T6) showed significant improvements in SOD activity and lipid peroxidation mitigation under SS. Future research should explore optimizing treatment concentrations and combinations to further enhance wheat stress tolerance and evaluate long-term effects on crop yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Root nodule symbiosis is traditionally recognized in the Fabales, Fagales, Cucurbitales, and Rosales orders within the Rosid I clade of angiosperms. However, ambiguous root nodule formation has been reported in Zygophyllaceae and Roystonea regia (Arecaceae), although a detailed analysis has yet to be conducted. We aimed to perform morphological analyses of root structures in these plants and utilize metagenomic techniques to identify and characterize the bacterial populations within the nodule-like structures. We collected root samples of Tribulus terrestris (Zygophyllaceae) and Roystonea regia from West Asia and the Caribbean, respectively. We conducted detailed morphological analyses of nodule-like structures, isolated and genome-sequenced the endophytes, and employed metagenomic techniques to identify the bacterial populations within these formations. We observed nodule-like structures in both plant species. Symbiosomes, which are hallmark structures of nodulating plants, were not detected. Metagenome sequence data analysis revealed potential nodulating and nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the nodule-like structures of both species. Canonical nodulation and nitrogen-fixation genes were identified in microbes associated with the nodules. However, the phylogenomic analysis showed that the bacteria isolated from T. terrestris and R. regia are within Gammaproteobacteria and Bacilli, which are not typically known as nodulating bacteria. The observed structures differ significantly from traditional nodules found in legumes and actinorhizal plants, suggesting unique characteristics with hosting nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Although bacteria identified through in silico analysis or culture are well-known nitrogen-fixers, their specific role in root nodule formation remains to be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PBSA), a biodegradable plastic, is significantly colonized and degraded by soil microbes under natural field conditions, especially by fungal plant pathogens, raising concerns about potential economic losses. This study hypothesizes that the degradation of biodegradable plastics may increase the presence and abundance of plant pathogens by serving as an additional carbon source, ultimately posing a risk to forest ecosystems. We investigated (i) fungal plant pathogens during the exposure of PBSA in European broadleaved and coniferous forests (two forest types), with a specific focus on potential risk to tree health, and (ii) the response of such fungi to environmental factors, including tree species, soil pH, nutrient availability, moisture content, and the physicochemical properties of leaf litter layer. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) revealed that PBSA harbored a total of 318 fungal plant pathogenic amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) belonging to 108 genera. Among the identified genera (Alternaria, Nectria, Phoma, Lophodermium, and Phacidium), some species have been reported as causative agents of tree diseases. Plenodomus was present in high relative abundances on PBSA, which have not previously been associated with disease in broadleaved and coniferous forests. Furthermore, the highest number of fungal plant pathogens were detected at 200 days of PBSA exposure (112 and 99 fungal plant pathogenic ASV on PBSA degraded under Q. robur and F. sylvatic-dominated forest, respectively), which was double compared mature leaves and needles from the same forest sites. These findings suggest that PBSA attracts fungal plant pathogens in forests as an additional carbon source, potentially leading to increased disease outbreaks and disrupting the stability of forest ecosystems. The fungal plant pathogenic community compositions were mainly shaped by forest type, PBSA exposure time, site locations, leaf litter layer water content, and N:P ratio from leaf litter layer in both forest types. This study provides valuable insights into the potential risks posed by biodegradable plastic degradation in forests after 200 and 400 days of exposure, respectively. Further comprehensive evaluations of their effects on tree health and ecosystems, ideally on a long-term basis, are needed. These evaluations should include integrating microbial investigation, soil health monitoring, and ecosystem interaction assessments. Nevertheless, it should be noted that our interpretation of plant pathogens is solely based on high-throughput sequencing, bioinformatics, and annotation tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are free-existing soil-borne bacteria that can be used as bioinoculants in place of chemical fertilizers to directly or indirectly enhance plant growth. This study aimed to characterize PGPR native to the rhizosphere of alfalfa plants in Kayseri and evaluate their efficacy on the growth parameters of tomato and watermelon. A total of 56 potential PGPR isolates were isolated and 24 were selected based on their ability to produce multiple PGP traits. 16S rDNA and phylogenetic analysis characterized these isolates to be novel strains of Pseudomonas, Enterobacter, Acinetobacter, Stenotrophomonas, Staphylococcus, Lycinibacillus, and Bacillus. Sequence analysis revealed nucleotide variations and insertion/deletion mutations in their 16S rRNA genes (nucleotides 913–1408). All selected isolates demonstrated nitrogen fixation ability, whereas 54%, 83%, 71%, 54%, and 38% of isolates possessed genes for phosphate solubilization, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) synthesis, phytase, ACC deaminase, and siderophore, respectively. Fifty-eight day old tomato and watermelon plants grown from PGPR-treated seeds showed significantly higher improvements in plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, shoot dry weight, and root fresh weight compared to non-inoculated control plants. Furthermore, treatment of watermelon seeds with these isolates significantly increased the fresh weight of shoots and the root dry weights in watermelon plants. Thus, these indigenous PGPR isolates can be used as effective seed inoculants and chemical fertilizer alternatives to enhance tomato and watermelon growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intricate interplay between endophytic microorganisms and plants in the upkeep of biodiversity, the stability of communities, and the operation of ecosystems needs to be more adequately extensive. Although root-associated microbial communities of plants have been revealed for the last decade, the understanding of bacterial and fungal communities associated with the roots of medicinal plants remains elusive. To highlight the importance of Panax ginseng Meyer (PG) in our research, we investigated the root endophytic bacterial and fungal communities of Panax ginseng Meyer (PG), alongside Aralia cordata (AC), Angelica gigas (AG), and Peucedanum japonicum (PJ), utilizing amplicon-based community profiling and advanced bioinformatic methodologies. The study aimed to investigate the root-endophytic microbiota of ginseng and three other medicinal plants and identify similarities in microbiome composition across different plant species and families. Results revealed that root-endophytic bacterial and fungal communities were influenced by plant species and phylogenetic differences at the family level. Differential abundance tests and random forest models showed microbial features within the same plant family. PG had a distinctive microbial profile with significant B1653_o_Enterobacterales and F8_o_Helotiales. PG had a core microbiome, B10_Allorhizobium-Neorhizobium-Pararhizobium-Rhizobium, and a more evenly distributed microbial network compared to AG, PJ, and AC. Our research reveals the intricate endophytic microbial communities within the roots of medicinal plants, pinpointing specific taxa that may be pivotal to their medicinal qualities and overall plant health. These insights carry notable implications for future studies, particularly those focused on the endophytes of PG and their secondary metabolites, as they deepen our understanding of plant-microbe interactions and their role in enhancing the plants' therapeutic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dark septate endophytic (DSE) fungi characterized by sterile conidia, melanin pigment, and the formation of melanized structures such as intercellular hyphae and microsclerotia, enabling them to colonize plant roots. They exhibit a broad geographic distribution, spanning temperate forests, tropical to arctic regions, and mountainous ecosystems and are associated with approximately 600 plant species. Results: DSE fungi have garnered attention for their potential as biocontrol agents against pathogens affecting numerous cultivated plants. Several DSE species, including Phialochepala fortini, Chadospora sp., Veronaeopsis simplex, Harpophora oryzae, Acrocalymma vagum, Pyrenochaetopsis terricola, Cladophialophora chaetospira, and Penicillium oxalicum, have been identified as effective biocontrol agents against diseases caused by Fusarium spp., Verticillium spp., Rigidoporus sp., Pyricularia sp., Ganoderma sp., and Colletotrichum sp. DSE fungi have ability to produce metabolite compounds. These compounds exhibit antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of plant pathogens. Conclusion: Therefore, DSE fungi holds significant potential as an agent for controlling plant pathogens in various cultivated plants. Future study directions include (1) exploring, isolating, and identifying DSE strains antagonistic to pathogens affecting different plants from various ecosystems because the use of DSE as a biocontrol agent for plant pathogens is still limited, (2) investigating the impact of DSE fungi diversity on the production of antimicrobial compounds, and (3) exploring the synergistic effects of DSE consortia with other biocontrol agents in effectively managing diseases in various cultivated plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identity of Musa sabuana and M. balbisiana var. andamanica are re-investigated here using integrative taxonomic approaches. Most recently, these two taxa have been treated as synonyms of a broadly defined M. balbisiana. The present study is based on a comparative morphology, foliar anatomy, seed micromorphology and anatomy, and molecular phylogeny (using nuclear ITS, chloroplast trnL–trnL–trnF and rps16). Musa sabuana and M. balbisiana showed remarkable differences in phyllotaxy, the shapes of the leaf bases and fruits, the thickness of their lamina, the number of adaxial hypodermal layers, seed shape, and the thickness of their seed coat. Phylogenetic trees based on multiple accessions also support the distinctiveness of M. sabuana and M. balbisiana var. andamanica from M. balbisiana var. balbisiana. Moreover, variation in the bract color of M. sabuana is confirmed by the current molecular study. Based on this integrated study, it is argued that M. sabuana and M. balbisiana var. andamanica are distinct and should be recognized taxonomically. Detailed morphological, anatomical and micro-morphological comparisons, color photographs, and a phylogenetic tree are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The successful establishment of bark beetle–fungus symbionts on plants is required to overcome host defenses. However, little is known about how different bark beetle–fungus symbionts adapt to different niches on the same host plant. Here, we investigated the niche partitioning mechanism of two co-occurring bark beetle–fungus symbiotic systems, Ips nitidus–Ophiostoma bicolor and Dendroctonus micans–Endoconidiophora laricicola, on Qinghai spruce (Picea crassifolia) tree. The lower niche of the spruce trunk inhabited by D. micans showed a higher content of monoterpenes than the upper niche of the trunk inhabited by I. nitidus. Dendroctonus micans showed greater tolerance and higher metabolic efficiency toward monoterpenes than I. nitidus. However, both beetle species showed a similar metabolic profile toward α-pinene, albeit with different levels of metabolites. Additionally, O. bicolor, transmitted by I. nitidus, showed a significantly higher tolerance to monoterpenes and pathogenicity to spruce trees than E. laricicola, transmitted by D. micans. In particular, monoterpenoid metabolites were observed to attenuate the inhibitory effect of high-dose α-pinene on E. laricicola, thus increasing its fitness in a high-dose monoterpene microhabitat. These results show that these two bark beetle–fungus symbionts have adapted to different niches, leading to fitness differences in niche distribution that are at least partly related to the different distribution of monoterpene concentration in the spruce trunk. This research provides a novel perspective for understanding the coevolution between bark beetle–fungus symbionts and their host plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the genetic mechanisms underlying seed coat color variation in cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.), a trait with significant implications for nutritional value, consumer preference, and adaptation to environmental stresses. Through a genome-wide association study (GWAS) involving cowpea accessions exhibiting red, green, and blue seed coats, we identified 16 significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) distributed across chromosomes 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, and 11. Our analysis highlighted the polygenic nature of seed coat color, emphasizing the shared SNP loci across different colors, suggesting integrated genetic influence or linked inheritance patterns, especially on chromosomes 9 and 10. We highlighted candidate genes, including Pentatricopeptide repeat family (PPR), Lupus La-related protein/La-related protein 1, and Udp-glycosyltransferase 71b2-related genes on chromosome 9, and MYB-like DNA-binding (MYB) genes on chromosome 10, all of which are implicated in pigment biosynthesis and regulatory pathways crucial to seed coat coloration and plant physiological processes. Our results corroborate previous findings linking seed coat color to the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway and reveal the complex genetic architecture and phenotypic plasticity inherent in cowpeas. The overlap in quantitative trait loci (QTL) regions across different seed coat colors points to a shared genetic basis, potentially enabling the manipulation of seed coat color to enhance the nutritional profile and marketability of cowpeas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backround and aims: The main cause of magnesium (Mg) deficiency is its competition with potassium (K). Maize, as the world's most widely grown crop, has a high risk of interplay with poorly balanced soils. Since foliar fertilization is applied when availability and distribution of nutrients is limited, this study aimed to determine whether Mg foliar application (FA) is to be favored over root resupply (RS) under such conditions. Methods: Plants of Zea mays L. were grown hydroponically with low and sufficient Mg supply under adequate to excess [K]. These ratios were combined with FA or RS of Mg, and plants were analyzed for Mg uptake, translocation and distribution. The primary physiological functions of Mg were quantified by chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate and starch accumulation. Results: Maize showed a restriction in the uptake antagonism of Mg by K, synergism in translocation, but no effect at distribution. Whilst tissue [Mg] remained unaffected by K, the increased K/Mg ratio impaired the physiological functions of Mg. The FA significantly reduced this K/Mg ratio, but neither the decline in chlorophyll levels and photosynthesis nor starch accumulation was reduced any faster or more markedly than by RS via nutrient solution (NS). Conclusions: Foliar Mg application is an effective alternative under high K/Mg ratios, but due to the restricted antagonism and the unknown suppressive mechanism of K on the physiological functions of Mg it is not superior to a RS via NS. Under field conditions when compared to soil fertilization, however, it may offer a decisive advantage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil or water salinity is a major constraint on crop productivity and national or global food security. It is possible that this constraint may increase in severity as a result of climate change. To overcome this constraint, it is essential to develop cultivars that are capable of withstanding this environmental stress factor. This study sought to identify suitable germplasm sources for the production of alfalfa cultivar/s for use in salinity-affected regions. For this reason, the effects of NaCl salt stress on 87 alfalfa populations and 6 alfalfa cultivars during germination and seedling development stages were investigated. The trial was irrigated with high salinity water (17.52 dS m−1) according to the completely randomized design and the Stress Tolerance Index (STI) was determined for the traits studied. In addition, a hierarchical cluster analysis was carried out to group samples according to their level of sensitivity or tolerance. This analysis was based on STIs derived from the traits germination rate and seedling dry weight, both of which have high broad sense heritability. According to the results of the analysis, the materials were divided into five main groups: highly tolerant, tolerant, medium, low tolerant, and sensitive to salt. It has been determined that certain materials possess high salt tolerance, including Defne, Alsancak, L-1758, L-1872, and L-1873 in the first group, and Bilensoy-80, Özpınar, L-1756, and L-2209 in the second group. These materials are crucial genetic resources in developing tolerant varieties. It is anticipated that these materials will be utilized with ease in future breeding studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-heading Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris ssp. chinensis Makino), a member of the Cruciferous family, can achieve efficient germplasm resource innovation through the regeneration of microspores. In this study, 18 genotypes, including 'I105' and 'I112,' were cultured to investigate the impact of genotype on the regeneration of microspores in non-heading Chinese cabbage. Simultaneously, optimization of conditions, such as the low-temperature time of microspore's donor plants and the addition of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), was conducted to obtain a substantial number of regenerated plants. By using flow cytometry for ploidy identification and conducting phenotype verification, a highly efficient system for regenerating microspores in non-heading Chinese cabbage was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saposhnikoviadivaricata (Turcz. ex Ledeb.) Schischk is a medicinal plant with a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, which are attributed to the presence of various bioactive compounds, including chromones. The uncontrolled harvesting of this plant has resulted in the depletion of its natural resources. The ability of S. divaricata to regenerate in vitro was studied. Aseptic culture was established by sterilizing seeds and germinating them, both with and without the pericarp. Adventitious shoot formation through direct morphogenesis was achieved on Murashige and Skoog medium in the presence of different cytokinins: benzylaminopurine, meta-topolin, and thidiazuron, at concentrations of 0.1 µM, 0.5 µM, and 1.0 µM. It has been determined that the most preferable explants were the cotyledonary nodes of aseptic seedlings, as they enable the rapid production of 1.4 ± 0.5 to 10.2 ± 2.0 microshoots per explant, depending on the type and concentration of the cytokinin used. Successful regeneration also occurred from the first true leaves of seedlings in vitro. Microshoots were formed directly from the explant tissues, with their quantity ranging from 1.7 ± 0.7 to 4.4 ± 0.9. The highest number of microshoots was induced by thidiazuron, but after cultivation with meta-topolin, the regenerated plants showed the highest frequency of rooting, ranging from 66 to 97%. Somatic embryoids were obtained when the first true leaves were cultivated with 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (10.0 µM). Morphogenesis occurred via the indirect pathway (through the callus formation stage), accompanied by the formation of up to 24.2 ± 6.1 somatic embryoids, with a rooting frequency reaching 96%. These studies provide a preliminary basis for developing a protocol for the clonal micropropagation of S. divaricata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theophylline, a rare xanthine alkaloid, has recently gained more interest in molecular and synthetic biology research due to its high selectivity, strong affinity to its aptamer, cost-effectiveness, availability, and non-toxicity. Despite its non-toxic nature, it is however crucial to establish the threshold limit of its application across different organisms, along with the minimum amount necessary for biotechnological applications. In the current study, various theophylline application methods were investigated at the diverse developmental stages of the model plant Nicotiana tabacum L., exponential growth phases of the bacterium Escherichia coli, and microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The growth behavior showed that while both plants and bacteria absorbed theophylline, the microalgae demonstrated a higher tolerance, suggesting a probable inefficient uptake of the substance into the cells or metabolization of it within the cell. Accordingly, C. reinhardtii, E. coli, and in vitro–grown tobacco explants showed relative tolerance to theophylline, respectively. Regarding the experiments done with tobacco, a range of theophylline tolerance between 1.5 and 2.5 mM was observed in different in vitro tissues with root development showing more sensitivity than seed germination or shoot regenerations. Remarkably, the greenhouse-grown tobacco plants could tolerate up to 15 mM theophylline when irrigated with the solution. Based on the analysis of the molecular metabolic processes, theophylline exposure did not remarkably affect the total RNA and protein qualities, and also the profiles of two main plastid membrane lipids, in treated tobacco. These findings on theophylline application in three different model organisms offer valuable insights into the protocols for the biological and biotechnological use of this agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient in vitro propagation protocol for a medicinal plant, Persicaria glabra (Willd.) M. Gomez, has been established. Nodal explants were cultured in vitro on agar-gelled (0.8%) Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing different concentrations of cytokinins, namely N6-benzyladenine (BA), 6-(γ,γ-dimethylallylamino)purine (2-iP), or kinetin (KIN). BA (2.5 µM) was found to be the most effective cytokinin for axillary bud proliferation. A growth retardant ancymidol (ANC) was combined with 2.5 µM BA to enhance the multiple shoot induction and ensure the overall health of micro shoots. The nodal explants taken from micro shoots developed in 2.5 µM BA were subcultured on agar-gelled MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of ANC along with 2.5 µM BA. Among the different concentrations tested, 4.0 µM ANC combined with 2.5 µM BA produced a maximum number of multiple shoots (13 shoots per explant). A progressive decline in the shoot height was observed with increasing concentrations of ANC and significantly reduced shoot length (0.5 cm) at a higher concentration (12.0 µM ANC). Reduced leaf area and more chlorophyll were noticed in ANC-treated plants than in BA-alone-treated plants. This facilitated better growth and development of robust micro shoots. Well-developed micro shoots were excised from 4.0 µM ANC along with 2.5 µM BA and subjected to ex vitro rooting experiments using different concentrations of auxins, including α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) or indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). The maximum number of roots (46.33 roots per shoot) and root length (14.53 cm) were observed in 0.5 mM IBA with 89.11% of the response. The rooted plants were successfully acclimatized in field conditions with 100% survival. The genetic fidelity analysis of in vitro–raised plants was tested using inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers, and they showed genetic monomorphism with the mother plant. The present study suggests that adding ANC and BA would enhance the multiple shoots induction and high rate of acclimatization of P. glabra cultures. The addition of ANC resulted in a 2.6-fold increase in shoot number and avoided undesirable elongation of shoots. Healthy shoots, thus, produced in ANC combined with BA-added medium doubled the survival of plants during acclimatization over a BA-alone medium and can be used in many other plant species that have the problem of developing shoots of an unhealthy nature coupled with abnormal internodal elongations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genetic richness of the Capsicum genus holds significant potential for breeding programs, but it hinders the integration of biotechnological approaches for genetic improvement. In vitro manipulation and regeneration of pepper species have been limited by the inherent recalcitrance barriers of the genus, which mainly manifest in the massive obtention of structures with multiple shoot apical meristem (SAM) deformations. Fifty years of pepper tissue culture have demonstrated that explant responsiveness to culture conditions is essentially governed by molecular and physiological factors, and it is highly genotype-dependent. The empirical approach of the research carried out in this field has allowed to substantially improve the in vitro response by modifying the surrounding environment. Currently, there are several reports of pepper regeneration through organogenesis, somatic embryogenesis, and androgenesis. However, these protocols are quite inefficient and little reproducible in other Capsicum genotypes. Literature about pepper tissue culture has extensively reviewed the plant regeneration success achieved, but little is known about the multifactorial nature of this persistent phenomenon. This article summarizes the progress made in understanding the recalcitrant nature of the Capsicum genus, highlighting the influence of the molecular and physiological processes involved in the in vitro response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses recent advances in the study of fungal biogenic elicitors, examines their structural diversity and mechanisms of immune response, and analyzes the prospects for commercial application. Attention is focused on hydrophilic elicitors (exo- and endo-β-glycans, secreted peptides), lipophilic elicitors (ergosterol and cerebrosides), and secondary metabolites (phytotoxins), which are involved in the intercellular interactions of the pathogen and the host plant and have a great immunostimulating potential. The use of nanoparticles and nanoemulsions that enhance the bioavailability of elicitors as a promising strategy in the preparation of their formulations is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth-promoting microbes (PGPM) are a group of beneficial microorganisms that stimulate plant growth directly by improving nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, mineral uptake/transport, plant growth hormone/regulator metabolism, and indirectly by systemic induced/acquired resistance by salicylic/jasmonic acid production. These microorganisms can act against plant pathogens by exoenzymes, secondary metabolite production, osmolyte production in abiotic stress. Pseudomonas/Bacillus spp. are the most versatile plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB). The PGPMs can be used as rhizome-remediators, phytostimulators, biofertilizers, and stress controllers. The PGPMs' treatment promotes the growth of several plants such as lentils, peas, cucumbers, and soybeans. Their availability depends largely on interactions between microorganisms in soil and the ecto- and endophytes of root, stem, and leaf. PGPMs affect positively to plant growth, nutrient uptake, biotic resistance, and disease-causing pathogens, and contributes to an increase in yield in several crop plants. This review extensively covers all these aspects of various ways adapted by the PGPM to stimulate positively plant growth effects. PGPB influence phosphorus (P) homeostasis to induce beneficial effects in plants. The review introduces the topic from the perspectives of P and their relation with PGPB. It interlinks the entomopathogens and endophytes with the PGPBs' regulation of plant growth. Different mechanisms and techniques of P solubilization by the PGPB are discussed. Followingly, the genetics and metagenomics of P solubilization are explained. This review opens various perspective points for further research for enhancing plant growth, strengthening sustainable agriculture of food crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ve: Increasing tree productivity by genetic engineering methods is one of the main trends of forest biotechnology. A promising strategy for this is to improve the use efficiency of nitrogen, which is the main limiting factor of plant growth. For this purpose, the GS1 gene from Scots pine was transferred to downy birch (Betula pubescens) plants. This gene encodes the cytosolic form of glutamine synthetase, the main enzyme of nitrogen metabolism in plants. Methods: To assess the effects of insertion of this gene, the birch plant metabolome was analyzed using GC-MS and HPLC-MS. Results and Discussion: GC-MS analysis found 197 metabolites in birch extracts, but the metabolomes of two transgenic clones showed no statistically significant differences from the control. Using the S-plot based on the OPLS-DA model, 32 metabolite markers affecting the separation of control and transgenic birch plants were detected; 22 of them were identified. Three metabolites among them were nitrogen-containing, including γ-aminobutyric acid, the immediate precursor of which is glutamine. HPLC-MS analysis found 48 metabolites, but transgenic plants did not differ from the control. GC-MS, however, showed a decrease in the content of two phenolic compounds in transgenic plants, which is characteristic of improved nitrogen supply. Conclusions: The study shows that modification of nitrogen metabolism in birch plants does not significantly affect the biochemical composition of tree shoots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, many studies have revealed the association between environmental stresses and skin disorders. Skin protects the inner body organs as a first line of defence against various environmental detriments. The physical, chemical, biological, and environmental stresses and internal factors, including reactive oxygen species, can lead to skin aging, laxity, wrinkles, dryness, and coarse texture. Therefore, utilizing naturally occurring bioactive phytochemicals has increased in recent years because of advancements in green technology, and new extraction techniques have made their use more compatible, enabling sustainable development. Alga, both macroalgae and microalgae are photosynthetic organisms that are highly exploited in food, feed, pharmaceuticals, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries. Algae widely synthesize primary and secondary bioactive metabolites such as polysaccharides, vitamins, flavonoids, carotenoids, pigments, phenolic, and mycosporine-like amino acids, etc. Many cosmetic formulations use algal bioactive metabolites or algal cells as a moisturizer, texture-enhancing agents, anti-wrinkle agents, whitening agents, sunscreen, anti‐cellulite, thickening agents, and also for hair care. The current review focuses on a better understanding and recent advancements in the application of algal extract and its biomass in a cosmetic formulation. It also briefly describes the current market scenario, challenges, and future prospectus of algae-based cosmetic products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volatiles produced by the leaves of medicinal plants are increasingly used as a new plant disease management strategy due to their induction of diverse antimicrobial activities, it is highly essential for the development of a new phyto-fumigant product to sustain crop production. The present study attempted to find the active role of Mentha spicata-associated volatile formulation in the suppression of the growth of Pythium aphanidematum under pot culture and field conditions. Damping off disease-causing P. aphanidermatum is a devastating disease that infects the tomato crop from seed sprouting to the seedling stage. To mitigate the damping off incidence, the nature of volatile molecules produced by M. spicata was completely suppressed during di-trophic interaction with P. aphanidermatum. Molecular docking of volatile compound reported carvone as a ligand recorded with the highest binding energy of − 8.5 kcal/mol against the target protein structure of P. aphanidermatum. Application of M. spicata immobilized vermiculite ball in tomato revealed that pathogenesis-related protein (SlPR1) (2.69 folds) and jasmonic acid signaling (SlLOX) (2.65 folds) genes were highly expressed after 48 HPT on tri-trophic interaction of pathogen inoculated tomato plants while the gene SlWRKY and SlTLP exhibited a lower level of gene expression. A significant reduction in the severity of damping off incidence was observed due to the exposure of volatiles of M. spicata in the tomato plant's raised beds with relatively abundant control of P. aphanidematum. This is the first study that attempted to develop the volatile-based formulation and its role in antifungal activities during di-trophic interaction with P. aphanidematum in tomato crops. The present study concludes that the volatiles produced from M. spicata leaves immobilized vermiculite ball could be explored for the management of soil-borne pathogens infecting vegetable crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saline-alkali stress has adverse effects on plant growth. Some plant Na+/H+ antiporters were reported to be important in salt tolerance. However, it needs to be better understood that Na+/H+ antiporters are involved in plant salt-alkali (NaHCO3/Na2CO3) tolerance. In this study, a Na+/H+ antiporter gene LcNHX1 (China patent No.200810050629.1) has been cloned from Leymus chinensis. The LcNHX1 CDS contains 1614 bp that encodes 537 amino acids. Amino acid and nucleotide sequence similarity, protein topology modelling, conserved functional domains in the protein sequence, and subcellular localization classified LcNHX1 as a vacuolar NHX1 homolog. Transcription analysis by quantitative RT-PCR indicated that upregulated expression of LcNHX1 could be induced by NaCl, NaHCO3, NaCl + NaHCO3, and PGE in L. chinensis seedlings. The expression of LcNHX1 partially complements the salt-sensitive phenotypes of a Δnhx1 yeast strain. In addition, LcNHX1 overexpressing enhanced the tolerance to NaHCO3 stress in the transgenic Arabidopsis. Taken together, these results indicated that LcNHX1 is a potential candidate gene for enhancing plant saline-alkali tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pistacia integerrima, a deciduous tree from the Anacardiaceae family, is well known for the formation of galls. These galls are rich in bioactive compounds and are commonly used in Ayurveda and traditional Indian medicine. However, the underlying mechanism of Pistacia integerrima gall formation remains unexplored. In this study, we identified the microbial communities associated with the galls and leaves of Pistacia integerrima using 16S rRNA and ITS gene sequencing. Our findings revealed the presence of bacterial genera such as Aeromonas, Bacillus, and Pseudomonas in both galls and leaves. Notably, both bacterial and fungal diversity was higher in leaves than in galls. Additionally, we identified that the fungal family Glomerellaceae is highly prevalent in galls, constituting a significant proportion of the fungal community, whereas its abundance in leaf samples is comparatively low. Further analysis using PICRUSt demonstrated that gall samples exhibited a greater number of highly abundant genes in the "microbial metabolism in diverse environments" pathway. This study provides valuable insights into the interactions between plants and microbes, enhancing our understanding of plant galls and informing future research efforts. It serves as a crucial resource for guiding further investigations into the intricate dynamics and mechanisms involved in the formation and development of plant galls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]