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The high irrigation water demand of coconut trees in semiarid regions makes rational use crucial for crop sustainability. Additionally, it produces residues that could improve the soil water holding capacity. This research aimed to evaluate the application of coconut shell biochar to an irrigated dwarf green coconut palm orchard. The study was carried out from January 2019 to December 2021 at Campo Experimental do Curu, Paraipaba, Brazil, belonging to Embrapa Agroindústria Tropical. The experiment consisted of a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replications and included the application of 0, 5, 10, 20, or 40 g of biochar per kg of soil, equivalent to 0.0 kg, 0.5 kg, 1.0 kg, 2.0 kg or 4.0 kg of biochar per plant, respectively. The following biometric variables were evaluated: number of leaves per plant (NL), plant height (PH), number of leaflets per leaf (LFT), canopy diameter (CD) and fruit production: number of bunches per plant (NB), number of fruits per plant (NF), volume of coconut water per fruit (CWF) and total soluble solids (TSS) (°Brix), as well as the daily soil moisture average. The results showed beneficial effects on the number of leaves per plant, fruits per plant, soil moisture and irrigation water productivity in terms of liters per fruit, liters per coconut water and fruits per cubic meter (m3) applied with ideal biochar doses estimated to be 1.40 kg, 1.72 kg, 1.79 kg, 1.56 kg, 1.48 and 1.68 kg of biochar per plant, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of coconut tree seedlings is an important step in the production process, as it substantially affects the productive performance of the adult plant, and the way of obtaining seedlings directly reflects the added costs. To minimize costs, the introduction of biostimulants can be considered a viable and sustainable technology. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of applying Bacillus cereus in promoting growth and reducing the costs of producing Brazilgreen dwarf coconut seedlings. The study has two stages, the first was an experiment carried out in a commercial nursery in the state of Pará-Brazil. The design was completely randomized, with two treatments: control with water (100% mineral fertilization) and B. cereus inoculation (50% mineral fertilization), with 10 replicates each. Biometric parameters and the quality of seedlings were evaluated. In the second stage, the production of stimulated seedlings was compared to that of commercial seedlings, and the effective operating cost (COE) and the total operating cost (TOC) were determined. Biostimulation with B. cereus promotes the growth of coconut tree seedlings, increases seedling quality, and reduces nursery time. In addition, the cost of production is reduced by 10%. Thus, microbial technology is a positive strategy for the production of Brazilian green dwarf coconut seedlings. Using B. cereus can guarantee obtaining seedlings with high performance and at a lower cost. These results may favor obtaining adult plants with high productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coconut residues have been widely recognized as a promising source of bioproducts and bioenergy, but full access to its potential polymeric matrix, in general, depends upon some pretreatment stage. Organosolv procedure gained recent attention for being eco-friendly combined with an efficient delignification of lignocellulosic biomass. In this regard, this study proposed a literature review on the Scopus database to track the studies focused on the application of organosolv for coconut residues. A total of 17 studies were identified on this subject, then scoping analysis showed that coconut residue, mainly fibers, treated by organosolv under different conditions, have been tested as an adsorbent, source of nanowhiskers, in ethanol production, and in the reinforcement of product properties. Bibliometric analyses, by means of VOSviewer, revealed that Brazil was the country with the highest number of published papers; along with the terms organosolv and coconut, lignin appeared within the most occurred keywords, which highlights the strong association of the organosolv as a route to extract coconut lignin. In addition, the present work also allowed us to enter into a comprehensive discussion of the future challenges and perspectives toward the development of research that aim to enhance coconut residue end uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By analyzing the growth and development of different types of strawberry plants, the researchers were able to evaluate the interference with the horticultural potential of the cultivar 'Albion'. The five treatments that have been studied corresponded to different types of strawberry plants: mini plants in trays with young roots, plants in trays with mature roots and an initial reduction of fertigation, plants in trays with mature roots, plants with bare roots, and plants in trays with mature roots preserved by the cold. In bags containing coconut fiber, the experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications. The attributes evaluated were the total yield per plant, the total yield per plant with fruits above 10 g, the total yield per hectare, the total yield per hectare with fruits above 10 g, the average plant diameter, the average number of buds per plant, and the average number of stolons per plant. There were no significant effects among the plant types concerning yield production. Plants in cold-preserved trays with mature roots showed a higher number of buds than plants in trays with mature roots. Cold-preserved tray plants with mature roots produced the highest number of stolons, followed by bare-root plants. It is concluded that the types of strawberry seedlings did not influence the productive performance of the strawberry 'Albion' cultivar. However, cold-preserved tray plants with mature roots showed better vegetative performance, with a yield of a higher number of buds and stolons. However, the results were influenced by the agroclimatic conditions of the producing region; due to climatic interference in the behaviour of the plants about the factors studied, it is recommended to repeat the experiment for a better understanding of the objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gluten is an essential component of bakery products, and some technical problems may arise due to its absence. Several ingredients can substitute wheat, some of which are still little explored, such as babassu mesocarp flour (BMF), a by-product of the babassu coconut (Orbignya phalerata) industry abundantly found in Brazil. BMF is a relevant source of nutrients, providing high amounts of protein, fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidant activity. Since gluten-free foods have low nutritional and sensory quality, this work aims to characterize the BMF as a healthy ingredient for gluten-free muffins. Muffin formulated with 80% of BMF revealed relevant acceptance on sensory analysis, and no difference was observed in specific volume compared to the control sample. Traditional muffins' concentration of sugar and fat is usually high, while fiber and mineral value are low. BMF muffins demonstrated an increasing content of fibers and minerals. Its use is an incentive to local workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aceria guerreronis Keifer and Steneotarsonemus furcatus De Leon are phytophagous mites that attack coconut fruits. These mites establish their colonies under the bracts in the perianth where they feed, causing necrosis and a loss of fruit quality and commercial value. Phytoseiidae is considered the most important family for the control of pest mites. With 256 species documented, the Phytoseiid fauna in Brazil is highly diversified. They are distributed across all Brazilian biomes, including the Amazon, Caatinga, Cerrado, Pampa, Atlantic Forest, and Pantanal. Regardless of the fact that the Amazon biome occupies an estimated 49% of the Brazilian territory, its acarofauna remains unexplored. In this region, coconut is one of the most cultivated crops, although the variety of mites in this crop in the Amazon is yet unclear. This information is essential since there are potential predatory species that can play an important role in the biological control of coconut pests. Thus, the present study investigated the diversity and seasonality of mites in coconut fruits in the Eastern Amazon production region throughout the year. Data were collected monthly and analyzed to determine the diversity and seasonality. The faunistic indices were calculated using the program ANAFAU, and the abundance and diversity of phytoseiids were analyzed using the software EstimateS. As the fruit ages, the quantity of injured fruits increases. The mites collected belonged to the families: Oribatida (20), Rhodacaroidea (14), Eriophyidae (473,904), Phytoseiidae (147), Tarsonemidae (133), Ascidae (122), Bdellidae (110), Tydeidae (59), Cunaxidae (7), Eupodidae (7), Cheyletidae (5), Blattisociidae (4), and Cryptognathidae (1). Throughout the collection period, A. guerreronis and S. furcatus were detected on fruits with and without damage, with A. guerreronis being the most prevalent. Predatory mites of the Phytoseiidae family were sampled from 12 collections, totaling 147 specimens distributed across eight species. Amblyseius aerialis (Muma) was the predominant predator species. The peak population of A. guerreronis and S. furcatus occurred in different periods, although both species were sampled during periods of high precipitation, suggesting adaptation to the climatic conditions of the region. Temperature was strongly correlated with mites of the Phytoseiidae family. The occurrence of these mites was more common in months with higher temperatures. The mite A. aerialis was discovered in 12 evaluations, with a greater occurrence in October 2019 and August 2020. Understanding the diversity, abundance, and population fluctuations of pest mites and their natural enemies in coconut plants is critical for developing integrated pest management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato is one of the main vegetables produced in Brazil, it adapts to practically all climates, but is susceptible to several diseases that lead to reduced productivity and quality. One of the most important segments in the Brazilian market is the fresh tomatoes, the 'BRS Imigrante' hybrid, which tolerates some diseases that cause production losses, is included in this category. The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth and the absorption curve of macro and micronutrients by 'BRS Imigrante' tomato cultivated in coconut fiber. The experimental design was randomized blocks with 10 treatments, consisting of sampling phases 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110 days after transplantation (DAT). In all the sampling phases, the biometric parameters of the plants were evaluated: number of leaves, fresh and dry mass of stem and leaves, fresh shoot mass, stem diameter and length, and fruit size, as well as the quantification of macro and micronutrient contents of leaves, fruits and stalks were carried out. For the development of the most adequate models of the absorption curve, the sigmoidal model with 3 parameters was adopted. Regarding the biometry, the tomato showed a sigmoidal growth rate for the evaluated parts, showing that at each crop stage, it presents different requirements. The most absorbed nutrients were K, Ca and N, respectively for the macronutrients and Fe, Cu and Mn for the micronutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population dynamic studies help understand how biotic and abiotic factors can affect pest populations and their natural enemies. The red palm mite, Raoiella indica Hirst (Acari: Tenuipalpidae), is an invasive species that severely damages coconut and banana trees and threatens several Arecaceae species in the Americas. In the present study, populations of R. indica were monthly monitored for 16 months in a coconut plantation in Boa Vista, Roraima, Brazil, to evaluate the contribution of natural enemies and climatic factors on population dynamics of this pest. Linear models were adjusted to determine how average air temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, and predators affect the abundance of R. indica over time. Rainfall and high air temperatures were the main factors reducing R. indica populations. During the drier months of the year, from September to March (average temperatures approximately 27.6 °C), the densities of R. indica were highest, and severe damage, such as yellowing and leaf necrosis, was observed on the plants. The most abundant predator was Amblyseius largoensis (Muma) (Acari: Phytoseiidae). Its density was positively influenced by R. indica and negatively affected by rainfall and high temperatures. Furthermore, the population of A. largoensis was reduced in drier periods and grew slower than R. indica after this period; thus, studies evaluating the release of this predator at the beginning of the rainy season are necessary to assess its effectiveness in regulating R. indica. This is the first report of insect predatory insects, namely Stethorus sp. (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae, regulating R. indica in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetable oils are subjected to heat treatments during processing and changes during storage. Thus, it is required, for usage as a food source, the evaluation of their thermo-oxidative stability and physicochemical characteristics. In this context, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the oil of catole coconut (Syagrus cearensis), aiming to characterize its identity and quality, as well as its antioxidant capacity and thermo-oxidative stability. The catole coconut was collected in the city of Lagoa Seca-PB, Brazil, its almonds were dried in a stove and the catole oil was obtained by cold pressing. The results of the physicochemical parameters complied with the current legislation, with average values ​​of 2.48 mg KOH g−1 oil for acid value, 0.14 meq peroxide kg−1 oil for peroxide value and 253 mg KOH g−1 oil for saponification value. Catole oil presented the profile of saturated fatty acids (84.42%), with the predominance of lauric acid (45.06%), besides major phenolic compounds such as salicylic acid [12.324 mg (100 g−1) of oil] and myricetin [1.405 mg (100 g−1) of oil]. The thermogravimetric profile remained stable to decomposition at temperatures up to around 240 °C and oxidative stability withstood at 110 °C for more than 48 h. Therefore, it was possible to identify and characterize this unexplored oilseed species of the Brazilian semiarid, diversifying its use in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catole coconut (Syagrus cearensis) is produced in abundance in the Northeastern region of Brazil, but still remains relatively unexploited for bioenergy purposes because of the little relevant scientific information available. In this context, this study aims to investigate the kinetics and thermodynamics that describe the pyrolysis of catole coconut through a multi-component approach, aiming to highlight its bioenergy potential. Thermogravimetric analysis of catole coconut was performed in an inert atmosphere with different heating programs (10, 20 and 30 °C min−1) to establish its pyrolysis behavior. The resulting pyrolysis behavior was subjected to deconvolution by the symmetrical Gaussian function to specify three independent components: pseudo-hemicellulose, pseudo-cellulose, and pseudo-lignin. By using four isoconversional methods, the average activation energy estimated is in the range of 124.2–133.5 kJ mol−1 for pseudo−hemicellulose, 159.7–170.1 kJ mol−1 for pseudo−cellulose, and 151.5–162.8 kJ mol−1 for pseudo−lignin. Based on the kinetic compensation effect, the pre-exponential factors were determined to be in the range of 3.5 × 1011–5.4 × 1014 min−1. Statistical results (R 2 >0.954 and Fit >0.944) indicate that the proposed summative kinetic expression proved to be valuable in reproducing the experimental pyrolysis behavior. The promising findings acquired from this study justify the interest in exploring catole coconut as a new bioenergy feedstock. [Display omitted] - First study presenting catole coconut as a low-value, suitable feedstock for pyrolysis. - Three independent parallel reactions were assumed: pseudo-hemicellulose (P-HC), pseudocellulose (P-CL) and pseudo-lignin (P-LG). - Average Ea = 124.2 to 133.5 kJ mol−1 for P-HC, 159.7 to 170.1 kJ mol−1 for P-CL and 151.5 to 162.8 kJ mol−1 for P-LG. - Pre-exponential factor > 109 min−1 suggested simpler chemistry reactions. - Thermodynamic parameters: ΔH = 120.4 to 155.3 kJ mol−1, ΔG = 153.0 to 177.0 kJ mol−1, and ΔS = −71.8 to −9.0 J mol−1 K−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Brazilian Review of Economics & Agribusiness / Revista de Economia e Agronegócio is the property of Brazilian Review of Economics & Agribusiness / Revista de Economia e Agronegocio and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Brazil's abundant biodiversity and favorable climate make it a world leader in the use of biomass for energy and biomaterials. Green coconut, a highly produced commodity on Brazil's coast, holds immense potential for bio-product generation from agro-industrial residues. Thermochemical conversion processes like pyrolysis offer an eco-friendly means to harness this biomass. In this study, coconut waste was deposited in soil, left exposed to environmental factors for 120 days, and periodically subjected to pyrolysis. Raw coconut fibers and fibers from the deposited biomass underwent pyrolysis to produce bio-oil. The phenolic compounds in the bio-oils were quantified through external calibration, with the analysis conducted by GC/qTOFMS. This is the first study to demonstrate that bio-oils derived from deposition biomass, simulating landfills, exhibit increased concentrations of phenolic compounds compared to the natural state. This highlights innovation in bio-oil production and its environmental significance by transforming discarded waste into valuable resources, suggesting their utility in polymer, pharmaceutical industries, or energy production. • Influence of the time of storage of the biomass in the bio-oil quality. • Pyrolysis of coconut fibers as a source of phenols for the chemical industry. • Biomass deposits increased phenolic content in bio-oil. • Bio-oil presents itself as a potential product with high added value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Raoiella indica Hirst (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) is the most critical coconut and banana pest recently introduced in Brazil. Once the mite pests are introduced, it is essential to understand their dynamics in important crops under open‐field climatic conditions to implement strategies for their management and determine the periods when species populations may increase in the field. Modelling tools have been used to determine the potential distribution of species and implications for the management of invasive species. Thus, our aim in this study was to determine the seasonal variation in R. indica and the influence of the monthly climate using CLIMEX modelling. We adjusted the CLIMEX model for R. indica based on distribution data, additional biological characteristics, and fluctuations in the R. indica population in a commercial coconut plantation. RESULTS: The model for the current climate shows a good match between the ecoclimatic index and the global distribution of R. indica. The model results demonstrate that most states of Brazil and several regions worldwide include areas with highly suitable climatic conditions for R. indica. We observed variations in the density of R. indica in commercial coconut crops, with the highest incidence occurring during the first months of the year. CONCLUSION: Our results showed different alterations in seasonal suitability for R. indica that may provide information for the implementation of methods for time management, such as strategies for sampling and control during periods with a high degree of suitability for R. indica. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we describe the male of Scutopalus tomentosusRocha, Skvarla & Ferla, 2013 and a new species Armascirus amazoniensis Wurlitzer & Silva sp. nov. from specimens collected on coconut crop, Cocos nucifera L. (Arecaceae), cultivated in state of Pará, into the Amazonic biome, Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dwarf coconut is widely used in the coconut hybrids production (tall × dwarf) because it presents higher precocity and higher productivity of the number of fruits in relation to the other varieties. However, these hybrids originated from Intervarietal crossing, produce fruits with low market acceptance for water quality. Intravarietal crosses (dwarf × dwarf) could act as an alternative, but little is known about the diversity within and between the dwarf sub-varieties, which can lead to a misdirection to breeding programs. In this study, we report the level of genetic variability between dwarf coconut accessions belonging to three sub-varieties (green, yellow and red), as well as the analysis of population structure. We used the RAD-sequencing methodology for analyzing 39 genotypes belonging to dwarf coconut populations collected in different producing regions of Brazil. Our results show that the SNP markers increased the power of detection of genetic variability, facilitating the decision making regarding future crosses in order to explore the heterosis in dwarf coconut breeding programs. Inter-sub-varietal crosses of dwarf coconut are highly promising to reduce the time and optimize the process of obtaining new cultivars for water production requiring field assessments to confirm its agronomic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of vitrification solutions and exposure time on the cryopreservation of Brazilian green dwarf coconut plumules (BGD) using the droplet vitrification technique. Explants were excised from BGD mature fruits from the Active Germplasm Bank of Embrapa Tabuleiros Costeiros, Sergipe, Brazil. Firstly, embryos were disinfected, and after excision, plumules were pre-cultivated for 72 hours in Y3 + 0.6 M sucrose + 2.2 g L-1 Gelrite® culture medium. Plumules were exposed to PVS2 and PVS3 solutions for 15 and 30 minutes and rapidly immersed in liquid nitrogen (-196 °C). After cryopreservation, they were thawed in culture medium solution (Y3 + 1.2 Msucrose) and cultured in regeneration medium. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 2x2 factorial scheme (vitrification solutions per exposure times), with five replicates per treatment. Data were compared by the Tukey 's test at 5% probability. Significant differences were observed in the callogenesis percentage for the solutions x exposure time interaction for non-cryopreserved cultures (-NL) and for exposure time after cryopreservation (+NL). PVS2 and PVS3 combined with 15 minutes of exposure promoted the highest callus formation (70 and 100%, respectively) in control cultures. The exposure time of 30 min, regardless of vitrification solution, resulted in 30% embryogenic callus formation after cryopreservation. These results contributed to the long-term conservation of coconut palm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Agricultura Irrigada - RBAI is the property of Revista Brasileira de Agricultura Irrigada - RBAI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the coastal areas of Northeast Brazil, coconut growers are replacing the tall varieties by the dwarf ones, following incentives for the coconut's water market. The current study aimed to determine and analyze actual evapotranspiration (ET) and biomass production (BIO), for dwarf coconut water productivity (WP) assessments. This was done to subsidize the rational irrigation and crop management, by using Landsat 8 images together with agrometeorological data during the year 2016 in the Camocim County, coastal zone of Ceará state. The SAFER (Simple Algorithm for Evapotranspiration Retrieving) algorithm was used to retrieve ET, while for BIO estimations we applied the Monteith's radiation use efficiency model (RUE), then the water productivity based on ET was calculated (WP ET = BIO/ET). The highest ET and BIO rates, above 4.0 ± 0.6 mm d−1 and 140 ± 37 kg ha−1 d−1, respectively, happened from May to July, retrieving WP ET pixel values larger than 3.5 kg m−3. It was noticed some water stress conditions, with the fraction ET to reference evapotranspiration (ET 0) dropping below 0.60 from the start of August to the end of the year, affecting the WP ET values. Considering also WP in terms of fruits and coconut's water produced, it averaged 1.9 coconut fruits and 0.8 L of coconut water per cubic meter of water consumed, respectively. The results can support techniques for irrigation water storage at the palm root zones, while increasing dwarf coconut yield in Northeast Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red palm mite, Raoiella indica Hirst (Acari: Tenuipalpidae), has been considered one of the most threatening pests of coconut, banana, and other monocotyledonous plants. It now has been reported from several Brazilian states, but little is known about its current distribution in the southern half of Brazil. The objective of this study was to evaluate the distribution of R. indica and the associated predatory mites in mid-southern Brazil, and to determine the possible southern limit to its distribution in the country. It was found in the Federal District and in 49 municipalities of 9 states, of which the southernmost was Iporã, Paraná State (24.007222°S, 53.698333°W). The majority of the surveyed sites south of Iporã had higher altitude than this municipality and surveyed sites immediately north of it. Thus, sites south of Iporã seem ecologically unsuitable to R. indica, most probably because of the low temperature in the winter. Eighteen species of predatory mites were found in association with R. indica, all of which belong to the order Mesostigmata, and 14 of which belong in the family Phytoseiidae. However, they are not R. indica-specific, as most have been reported from coconut (and other plants) in Brazil and elsewhere, regardless of the occurrence of R. indica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red palm mite, Raoiella indica Hirst, is a threat to coconut, banana and native Arecaceae and Heliconiaceae in Brazil. This mite originated in the Eastern Hemisphere and was first reported in 2004 in the Americas, where the pest is spreading quickly and causing severe damage to its host plants. The objective of this work was to determine the life-history parameters of R. indica at constant temperatures, estimate its thermal requirements [threshold temperature (Tb) and thermal constant (K)] and also compare its life table parameters between sexual reproduction and parthenogenesis. The life tables were constructed on leaflets of Adonidia merrillii at 15, 20, 24, 27, 30 and 34 °C and 65% RH and a 12-h photoperiod. The longevity and the number of laid eggs of non-copulated adult females were evaluated at 27 °C. Raoiella indica had complete development, from egg to adult, only at 20, 24, 27 and 30 °C. At 15 °C, the eggs did not hatch, and at 34 °C, the mites survived only until the larval stage. For sexual reproduction, the optimal temperature was 27 °C, under which the reproductive parameters were higher. The reproductive parameters for sexual reproduction were higher than those for parthenogenesis. The Tb was 14.79 °C, and the thermal constant was 208.33 degree days. The life parameters estimated in this study can be used for modelling and predicting the population growth of R. indica in the field and consequently for improving their management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quarantine disease Lethal Yellowing (LY) is currently the main threat to coconut cultivation in Brazil. LY is caused by phytoplasmas and is transmitted by Haplaxius crudus (Hemiptera: Cixiidae), although other planthoppers/leafhoppers could be involved.We assessed the Auchenorrhyncha community composition on various coconut hybrids, including association with parental and nonparental dwarf coconut accessions.The Auchenorrhyncha were trapped in 2016 between the dry and rainy seasons (March and April), in the rainy season (July and August) and in the dry season (November and December).Oecleus sergipensis (Hemiptera: Cixiidae) accounted for 73% of the individuals, with a predominance at the dry‐to‐rainy season transition. Curtara samera (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) was the best‐represented species on the hybrids Brazilian Green Dwarf × Brazilian Tall – Praia do Forte, Brazilian Green Dwarf × Vanuatuan Tall and Malayan Yellow Dwarf × West African Tall. Oecleus sergipensis was the best‐represented species on the hybrids Malayan Red Dwarf × Tagnanan Tall, Malayan Red Dwarf × Vanuatuan Tall and Malayan Yellow Dwarf × Brazilian Tall – Praia do Forte.Individuals of a species of Cenchreini and Omolicna nigripennis (Hemiptera: Derbidae) increase in the rainy season; Balclutha sp. (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) and Cedusa sp. (Hemiptera: Derbidae) are prevalent in the transition period between the dry and rainy seasons. Knowledge about potential Auchenorrhyncha phytoplasma vectors on coconut hybrids could contribute to the development of strategies for use in breeding programmes for coconut LY prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to quantify and spatialize the agricultural composition and current land use in part of the Irrigation perimeter Nilo Coelho from the Landsat 8 satellite digital image classification. At first we performed the unsupervised classification image related to January 2014, identifying the separability within natural vegetation, water bodies, agricultural crops and anthropized areas. Then the supervised classification Maxver model was performed where it was observed that the fruit classes “Grape” (5.41%) “Acerola” (3.75%), “Coconut” (6.14%) “Guava” (6.17%), “Banana” (2.29%) and “Mango” (8.18%) showed dominance in the study area. These classes stood out in terms of yield in the area, pointing out that in that expansion which occurs in an area with agricultural crops in the irrigated Nilo Coelho, crops of mango, coco, guava, acerola, banana and grape also grow. In addition, we observed the emergence of new areas with passion fruit crops, melon, watermelon, corn, beans, onions, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, bell peppers, among other crops. Furthermore, we also found the occurrence of pastures containing buffel and elephant grasses, intercropping or not. The estimated overall accuracy was 80.52%, and the mapping defined as very good, with Kappa index equal to 0.7783. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Caatinga is the property of Revista Caatinga and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The coconut mite, Aceria guerreronis Keifer (Acari: Eriophyidae), is one of the main coconut pests in the American, African and parts of the Asian continents, reaching densities of several thousand mites per fruit. Diagrammatic scales have been developed to standardize the estimation of the population densities of A. guerreronis according to the estimated percentage of damage, but these have not taken into account the possible effect of fruit age, although previous studies have already reported the variation in mite numbers with fruit age. The objective of this study was to re-construct the relation between damage and mite density at different fruit ages collected in an urban coconut plantation containing the green dwarf variety ranging from the beginning to nearly the end of the infestation, as regularly seen under field conditions in northeast Brazil, in order to improve future estimates with diagrammatic scales. The percentage of damage was estimated with two diagrammatic scales on a total of 470 fruits from 1 to 5 months old, from a field at Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil, determining the respective number of mites on each fruit. The results suggested that in estimates with diagrammatic scales: (1) fruit age has a major effect on the estimation of A. guerreronis densities, (2) fruits of different ages should be analyzed separately, and (3) regular evaluation of infestation levels should be done preferably on fruits of about 3-4 months old, which show the highest densities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The red palm miteRaoiella indicaHirst (Tenuipalpidae) was first reported in the New World in 2004, dispersing quickly and widely while adopting new plant species as hosts. Since then, it has caused severe damage in this region, especially to coconut (Cocos nuciferaL.). It was first found in Brazil in 2009, in the northern Amazonian state of Roraima. In the present study, native and introduced plants were sampled between March 2010 and February 2011 in sites of the 15 Roraima municipalities, to estimate its distribution and the associated mite fauna. In addition, monthly samples were taken from a coconut plantation in Mucajaí throughout the same period, for an initial appraisal of the levelsR. indicacould reach. It was found in 10 municipalities, on 19 plant species of four families. Six species are reported for the first time as hosts. Among the associated predators, 89.1% were Phytoseiidae, most commonlyAmblyseius largoensis(Muma),Iphiseiodes zuluagaiDenmark & Muma andEuseius concordis(Chant). The highest densities ofR.indica, 1.5 and 0.35 mites/cm2of leaflet (approx total of 331 and 77 mites/leaflet), were reached respectively in March 2010 and February 2011. The highest density of phytoseiids on coconut (0.009 mites/cm2or about 2 mites/leaflet) was reached in November 2010. The average densities ofR. indicarecorded for Roraima were comparable to those reported for countries in which the mite is reportedly economically damaging. The dispersal ofR. indicathrough the Amazon forest may result in damage to cultivated and native palms, and plants of other families, if the projected increase in both the frequency and the severity of drought events occurs. Parts of the Amazon have undergone periods of low rainfall, a condition that appears to favour the biology of this mite. Its eventual arrival to northeastern Brazil may result in heavy economic and ecological losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several predatory mites have been found in association with the coconut mite, Aceria guerreronis Keifer, in northeast Brazil. However, the latter still causes damage to coconut in that region. The objectives of this work were to compare the frequencies of occurrence of Neoseiulus (Phytoseiidae) and Proctolaelaps (Melicharidae) species on standing and aborted coconuts in coastal Pernambuco State, northeast Brazil and to analyze their possible limitations as control agents of the coconut mite, based on evaluations of the restrictions they may have to access the microhabitat inhabited by the pest and their functional and reproductive responses to increasing densities of the latter. Neoseiulus baraki (Athias-Henriot) was found mostly on standing coconuts whereas Proctolaelaps bickleyi (Bram) was found mostly on aborted coconuts. Measurements of the entrance to the microhabitat occupied by the coconut mite, between the bracts and the subjacent fruit surface, showed that this different pattern of predator prevalence could be related to predator sizes, although other environmental factors could not be disregarded. Progressively higher predation rate of N. baraki was observed up to an experimental density that corresponded to 1,200 coconut mites per fruit, which is close to the average number determined in northeast Brazil, reducing slightly afterwards. Predation rate of P. bickleyi reduced consistently but slightly with increasing prey densities, but in absolute values, rates were always much higher than determined for N. baraki. The excessively high killing capacity of P. bickleyi, probably related to its high feeding requirement, may be detrimental in terms of stability. In fact, such high requirement for food suggests that P. bickleyi might not have a strong relation with the coconut mite and that the latter may not be its main food source under natural conditions. It is concluded that body sizes of both predators and the exceedingly high feeding requirement of P. bickleyi may limit their performance as control agents of the coconut mite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The consumption of fresh or industrialized coconut water (Cocos nucifera L.) in Brazil has been increasing. As a consequence, millions of tons of coconut husk are discarded each year, which constitutes a serious environmental problem. Studies carried out in our laboratories showed that the pulp rejected with the husk presents interesting properties and can be used as an ingredient with potential applications in food formulations. Drying is one possibility to preserve the pulp that is discarded inside the husk. This study aimed to evaluate the processes of drying green coconut pulp in cabinet dryer (CD) and pulsed fluid bed dryer (PFB) at 60, 70 and 80° C. The parameters water activity (Aw), lightness (L*), enzyme activity, moisture and crispness were used for choosing the best process conditions for snack producing. Mathematical modeling of drying curves was done using Henderson & Pabis, Lewis and Page models. After 480minutes at 70°C, both pieces of equipment succeeded in producing final snack-like products. Snack obtained in CD presented final moisture of 0.159 ± 0.004 (db) and in PFB 0.0400 ± 0.0004 (db). The choice of the best process depends on the dry product demand. PFB is the most suitable for large demands. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Coconut is a tropical fruit largely consumed in many countries. In some areas of the Brazilian coast, coconut shell represents more than 60% of the domestic waste volume. The shell is composed mainly of lignin and cellulose with chemical composition very similar to wood. As several kinds of wood are used as a phenolic source to produce extracts for artificial aging of alcoholic beverages, in this work, the coconut shell was evaluated as a source of phenolic compounds. The coconut powder was submitted to different toasting temperatures and the phenolic compounds were extracted by the application of ultrasound. The ultrasound extraction methodology has been studied as a low cost alternative in substitution to solvent reflux extraction. The experiments were done according to a factorial experimental planning and the effects of toasting time, toasting temperature and extraction time were evaluated through response surface methodology. The results indicate that high amounts of phenolics can be extracted from coconut shell by ultrasound assisted extraction technology, and that the extraction time was the most significant parameter for the process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present study was conducted at the Neopolis Platou Fruticulture Project, located near the banks of San Francisco River, Sergipe State, Brazil, and had the objective to evaluate the effect of different doses of N and K, applied during one year through fertigation, on the leaf macro and micronutrients of the coconut (Cocos nucifera L.). The experimental design was a completely randomized block design with four replicates of ten combinations of N (urea) and K (KCl), treatments defined by the Plan Puebla III Matrix Model. Each treatment was repeated four times. The experimental plots were six coconut plants. The concentration of macro and micronutrients in the leaf, before and after the fertigation period were determined. With the exception of N, Na and Cl, the concentrations of macro and micronutrients were not influenced by the NK treatments. The concentrations of N, P, Ca and Mg in the leaf decreased and the Cu and Cl increased after one year of fertigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigated the use of high-pressure processing (HPP) for inactivating vegetative pathogens and spoilage microbiota in fresh unfiltered coconut water (Cocos nucifera L) from nuts obtained from Florida and frozen CW from Brazil with pH >5.0 and storage at 4 °C. Additionally, CW was evaluated to determine if it supported the growth and toxin production of Clostridium botulinum with or without the use of HPP when stored at refrigeration temperatures. Samples of fresh unfiltered CW were inoculated to 5.5 to 6.5 logs/mL with multiple strain cocktails of E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes and HPP at 593 MPa for 3 min at 4 °C. HPP and inoculated non-HPP controls were stored at 4 °C for 54 and 75 days for Florida CW and Brazil CW, respectively. Results of analyses showed HPP samples with <1 CFU/mL and no detection (negative/25 mL) with enrichment procedures for the 3 inoculated pathogens for all analyses. The non-HPP control samples did not show growth of the pathogens but a gradual decrease in levels to ca. 3-Logs/mL by day 54 in the fresh Florida CW and similarly in frozen Brazil CW by Day 75. Microbial spoilage of uninoculated samples was evaluated for normal spoilage microbiota through 120 days storage at 4 °C. Microbial counts remained at ca. 2-logs with no detectable signs of spoilage for HPP samples through 120 d. The non-HPP control samples spoiled within 2 weeks of storage at 4 °C with gas production, cloudiness, and off-odors. To evaluate if CW supports the growth and toxin production of C. botulinum , samples of unfiltered and filtered (0.2 μm) CW were inoculated with either proteolytic or non-proteolytic C. botulinum spores at 2 log CFU/mL that were processed at 593 MPa for 3 min and stored at 4 °C and 10 °C for 45 days. Inoculated positive and non-inoculated negative controls were prepared and stored as the HPP treated and non-HPP samples. No growth of C. botulinum or toxin production was detected in either the unfiltered or filtered CW regardless if products were HPP treated or not. All inoculated samples with C. botulinum spores were enriched at Day-45 in PYGS media to determine the viability of the inoculated spores at the end of shelf-life and screened for C. botulinum toxins. In all samples, C. botulinum toxin Types A, B and E were detected indicating spores were viable throughout the storage. Type F toxin was not detected possibly due to inherent conditions in the samples that may affected toxin screening. • High Pressure processing (HPP) of coconut water exceeded 5-Log reduction of pathogens. • HPP extended the shelf life and quality of coconut water to at least 4 months at 4 °C. • C. botulinum did not grow in coconut water at 4 and 10 °C with or without HPP. • C. botulinum spores were viable, but no toxins detected when stored at 4 and 10 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Coconut palm is an important crop explored in most tropical areas. • Different abiotic constraints impact tall coconut yields in coastal areas. • Physiological response can be indicators of sensitivity to abiotic stress. • Waterlogging is an additional stress factor in coconuts high tide areas. • Permanent hindrance on photosynthesis is observed in severe stressful areas. Coconut palm is an important crop explored as a rich source of oil, fiber, milk, and water in most tropical areas. Brazil is the fifth largest producer in the world, and extensive coastal areas of Northeastern Brazil are planted with tall coconut. However, the sustainability of these coconut plantations can be affected by different abiotic stresses, including drought, mineral nutrition, and salinity. So, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the ecophysiological responses of tall coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) adult plants in cultivated and semi-extrativist areas on coast of Ceará state, in Northeastern Brazil. The study was carried out in four areas: Irrigated, Rainfed, Foreiro (coconut trees on coastland owned by the Navy and temporarily rented to private individuals) and Preamar (coconut trees in high-tide areas owned by the Navy). The evaluations (leaf gas exchanges, Na+ on leaf surfaces, leaf concentrations of soluble carbohydrates, N, K, P, and Na, soil moisture, and soil electrical conductivity) were carried out in the dry and rainy seasons, between 2015 and 2017. Our results indicated that tall coconut palms were subjected to abiotic constraints in three of the four evaluated areas. Salinity and waterlogging were evident in Preamar plants; water deficit in Rainfed plants; and nutritional stress limited the crop yield in Rainfed, Preamar, and Foreiro areas. Coconut plants that grew in Foreiro area, despite the proximity to the ocean, were not subjected to salt stress, and the higher moisture in lower soil layers significantly reduced the effect of the dry season on photosynthetic rates. Seawater spray caused accumulation of Na+ on coconut leaf surfaces, mainly in the areas close to the sea. The repeated salinity stress and waterlogging in high-tide area caused a permanent hindrance for carbon assimilation rate, limiting the capacity of fruit production by plants. Current climatic changes leading to the elevation of sea level and intrusion of sea water enhance the general concern on how to maintain these coconut plantations as source of fiber and nutrition to future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Raoiella indica Hirst (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) is the most critical coconut and banana pest recently introduced in Brazil. Once the mite pests are introduced, it is essential to understand their dynamics in important crops under open-field climatic conditions to implement strategies for their management and determine the periods when species populations may increase in the field. Modelling tools have been used to determine the potential distribution of species and implications for the management of invasive species. Thus, our aim in this study was to determine the seasonal variation in R. indica and the influence of the monthly climate using CLIMEX modelling. We adjusted the CLIMEX model for R. indica based on distribution data, additional biological characteristics, and fluctuations in the R. indica population in a commercial coconut plantation., Results: The model for the current climate shows a good match between the ecoclimatic index and the global distribution of R. indica. The model results demonstrate that most states of Brazil and several regions worldwide include areas with highly suitable climatic conditions for R. indica. We observed variations in the density of R. indica in commercial coconut crops, with the highest incidence occurring during the first months of the year., Conclusion: Our results showed different alterations in seasonal suitability for R. indica that may provide information for the implementation of methods for time management, such as strategies for sampling and control during periods with a high degree of suitability for R. indica. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry., (© 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.)

• High Individual Tree Detection (ITD) accuracy is possible for coconut trees using Local Maxima algorithm based techniques. • Adaptive Tree Window Size (TWS) approach as a function of lidar-derived canopy cover can enhance tree detection accuracy. • ITD-derived tree heights provide an opportunity to investigate the level of homogeneity existing at plot levels. Forest inventory and monitoring is indispensable for coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) forest plantation owners as it allows them in assessing tree growth, fruit production rates and vitality of plantations, as well as assists to meet up with the rising market demands by ensuring better yields. Nonetheless, the use of remote sensing techniques for optimizing the management and production of coconut plantations is still at a latent stage. In this paper, we present an airborne laser scanning (lidar) based tree detection method applied for automatically identifying individual coconut trees in a plantation in southeast Brazil. This method locates individual trees by searching treetops on canopy height models (CHM) derived from lidar data through a moving window having fixed treetop window size (TWS). Here, an adaptive TWS approach was implemented as a function of lidar-derived canopy cover (COV, %) along with additional smoothening window sizes (SWS) for enhancing tree detection accuracy. A total of 19 plots characterized by varying levels of canopy cover were used for testing the accuracy of our framework and we were able to obtain an average tree detection accuracy of 86.22%. From a total of 341 trees, 294 trees were detected correctly by the algorithm using adaptive TWS. A low TWS (3x3) value was found to perform best in study plots having COV > 80% and for rest of the cases, a higher TWS (7x7) was perceived suitable. Results were further analyzed and compared, to evaluate the relationship of Individual Tree Detection (ITD) accuracy with varying canopy cover levels, within-plot tree distribution patterns, TWS and SWS values. Proceedings from our work show that appropriate combination of lidar-derived CHMs, local maxima (LM) algorithm and window sizes have the potential to satisfactorily (F-score ˜ 0.90) detect plantation species having irregular canopies such as coconut trees. As an extension of the ITD, estimation of forest uniformity, which gives a measure of the level of homogeneity or heterogeneity of stands, is also performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]