Search

The use of near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) as an alternative to the techniques commonly employed in the study of forage composition needs to be explored. The objective was to construct calibration curves to predict the physical-chemical composition of tropical grasses (Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf 'Marandu', 'Piatã'; B. decumbens Stapf, Panicum maximum Jacq. 'Colonião'), by NIRS and compare two multivariate regression method. Forage samples were analyzed for crude protein (CP), acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), ash, ether extract (EE), lignin, and moisture. The values obtained by the Official Methods of Analysis of Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) were reference values for the creation of multivariate calibration models. The samples were scanned on the NIRS. The multivariate calibration models were created by the partial least squares (PLS) method and by the multiple linear regression (MLR) method. The predictive capacity of the models was evaluated by the correlation coefficient (R) and parameters of the mean squared deviation (RMSE). When the MLR was used, only the prediction model of ash (R = 0.82) of the P. maximum, EE (R = 0.87) and moisture (R = 0.90) of 'Piatã' showed approximate predictive capacity, for the other components R indicated good prediction. After the validation of the models developed by the PLS regression method, the CP (0.78-0.91), NDF (0.88-0.95), lignin (0.85-0.91), and moisture (0.79-0.96) predictions presented good results. The NIRS technique can be used to determine the physical-chemical composition of tropical grasses. The MLR multivariate regression method as well as PLS can be used to predict the physical-chemical composition of tropical grasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco 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.)

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco 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.)

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco 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 main goal of this investigation was to determine the effects of Brachiaria decumbens leaf meal on the health performance, blood biomarkers, and relative telomere length of broiler chickens raised in tropical conditions. A total of 300, day-old, male, Ross 308 broilers were divided into six groups and given various feeding regimens based on a completely randomized design model. T1 commercial feed was devoid of antibiotics (negative control) whereas T2 commercial feed was supplemented with 100 mg/kg oxytetracycline (positive control). Commercial diets supplemented with 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg/kg of powdered B. decumbens leaf meal was given to the birds in treatments T3, T4, T5, and T6, respectively. Throughout the 42-day study, there were a few occurrences of leg problems, diarrhoea, and fatalities, but no statistical association was detected. The growth performance, leucocyte profile, immunoglobulin and cytokine concentrations, and relative telomere length, however, differed substantially among treatments. T3 broilers fed with diets supplemented with 25 mg/kg of B. decumbens leaf meal exhibited the best growth performance (highest final body weight and body weight gain; lowest cumulative feed conversion ratio), leucocyte profiling (increased total white blood cell count, monocytes, and basophil count; decreased heterophil to lymphocyte ratio), immunoglobulins (up-regulated IgG, IgA, and IgM), cytokines (increased IL4 and IL7), and telomere length. In conclusion, B. decumbens leaf meal can be used instead of antibiotics to enhance the growth and health of broilers raised in hot, humid conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To define the best grazing management strategy, it is important to assess animals' responses to variations in the structure and composition of tropical forages. This 2‐year study evaluated animal response to Marandu palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha)‐calopo (Calopogonium mucunoides) mixed pastures managed under rotational grazing. Treatments consisted of three defoliation frequencies defined by rest periods interrupted at 90% (90LI), 95% (95LI) and 100% (100LI) of photosynthetically active radiation interception (LI). The stubble post‐grazing height target was 15 cm. Statistical difference was declared at p <.10. The 100LI had lowest crude protein (CP) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDDM) for the Marandu palisadegrass (p = <.001 both) and calopo (p =.003 and p =.067, respectively). Also, the OM digestibility decreased 7.0% in the 100LI condition than 90LI and 95LI treatment (p =.005). There was no difference in forage, grass, and legume intakes between the treatments (p >.10). The 100LI treatment decreased CP intake from grass in 33.3% (p = <.001) compared to other treatments. Greatest production of microbial N (p =.093) occurred with the 90LI treatment. The CP/digestible organic matter (DOM) ratio, urinary N excretion and retained N were lowest in the 100LI treatment (p = <.001, p =.007 and p =.014, respectively). The recommendation for grazing between 90 and 95% of LI is recommended because of greater CP intake and N utilization for the animals and improved the nutritive value of Marandu palisadegrass and calopo mixed pastures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated germination, production, and morphological composition of Urochloabrizantha intercropped with corn and sorghum; and silage fermentation losses and aerobic stability of intercrop silage using microbial inoculant. Twenty experimental parcels (5.0 × 3.6 m) were used in a blocked randomized design to evaluate four treatments obtained from a 2 × 2 factorial arrangements: I) crop material (corn vs. sorghum) and II) Brachiaria (U. brizantha) establishment (present vs. absent). Corn- and sorghum-brachiaria integrated systems showed similar brachiaria germination, forage yield, and morphological composition. There was no crop and brachiaria interaction effect on the variables related to corn and sorghum plants and the total productivity. Brachiaria decreased the stem diameter and increased the population of maize and sorghum plants. However, it did not affect systems productivity. Microbial inoculation did not affect corn silage effluent losses and reduced sorghum silage effluent losses. In corn silage, brachiaria did not affect gas losses, while in sorghum silage, brachiaria increased the gas losses. Total losses were higher in sorghum silage than in corn silage, which resulted in a lower DM recovery. The treatments did not affect the pH of the silage after aerobic exposure. However, brachiaria increased silage temperature evaluated at 32 and 40 hours after aerobic exposure. Thus, corn or sorghum consortium has similar brachiaria morphological composition and productivity. Moreover, in intercropped silage, brachiaria increases effluent losses and reduces silage aerobic stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A diverse group of invasive grasses from tropical and subtropical Africa and Asia has spread throughout the Neotropics over the last decades. Despite their strong ecological impact, current and future distribution patterns of these grasses in the region according to climate change is poorly investigated. We chose ten high potential invasive grass species and used ecological niche modeling to project their geographic distribution within the Neotropics under four climate change scenarios (current, SSP1-2.6, SSP3-7.0 and SSP5-8.5 for 2100). Current climatically suitable areas for these invasive species were estimated to account for 51.3% of the Neotropics. Projections of future climatically suitable areas ranged between 47.0% and 57.6%, depending on the climate scenario. Range retractions are projected for Melinis repens and Urochloa decumbens regardless of the SSP scenario, while Arundo donax, Hyparrhenia rufa and Melinis minutiflora are expected to expand their range in all SSP scenarios. Currently, these ten invasive species have suitable areas that greatly overlap in dry regions of the Neotropics, mainly in the savannas of Central Brazil and Central America. However, a reduction in species overlap and a geographical expansion towards wetter regions is expected under the SSP1 and SSP3 scenarios, and towards drier regions under the SSP5 scenario.

Abstract Much of deforested Amazonia is dominated by pastures planted with exotic Urochloa (syn Brachiaria) grass, containing interspersed, ruderal Babassu palm (Attalea speciosa). This two‐species system offers the opportunity to investigate how two very competitive species interact. We investigated three monospecific Urochloa pastures containing dispersed Babassu palm clusters in the eastern periphery of Amazonia. We mapped 0‐ to 50‐cm Babassu and Urochloa root profiles at three distances representing contrasting relative dominance: “within clusters” (0.4–0.6 m from adult palm, Babassu‐dominated), “close” (2.5–4.0 m), and “far” (>8.0–10.0 m, Urochloa‐dominated). Total Babassu root share count was 76.0% within Babassu clusters, as opposed to Urochloa root share count (80.0%) far from clusters, confirming our experimental dominance gradient. Babassu and Urochloa root diameter composition differed strongly, whereas 44.6% of all Babassu roots were mid‐diameter or coarse; 83.0% of all Urochloa roots were fine graminoid. Vertical root profiles likewise differed: Babassu coarse and mid‐diameter roots concentrated within clusters at 20–50 cm depth, well protected against disturbance, though Babassu mid‐diameter roots did extend up to 10 m, indicating active foraging at long distances. By contrast, Urochloa mid‐diameter and coarse roots concentrated in the topsoil (70.4% in top 20 cm). Notably, 45.0% of all Urochloa fine roots but only 29.3% of deeper rooting Babassu concentrated in the top 0–10 cm. Both Urochloa mid‐diameter (R = 0.49) and fine roots (R = 0.40) correlated positively with Urochloa aboveground biomass. Fine‐root fine‐scale variability was high, with high‐density hotspots of both species in the topsoil. Babassu vertical root profiles were unaffected by the degree of interspecific competitive confrontation, whereas Urochloa fine roots were significantly shallower within than outside of Babassu clusters. Though differing Babassu and Urochloa vertical root profiles do support the notion of niche expansion caused by Babassu clusters within the vast Urochloa pastures throughout Amazonia, we also find a strong horizontal and vertical niche overlap with no indication of fine‐scale root segregation, indicating direct competition between both species, possibly in a dynamic state of “mutual invasability.” In practical terms, our findings call for the diversification of Amazonian pastures beyond this two‐species system in order to increase productivity and ecological efficiency.

We aimed to evaluate the effect of supplemental CP on the nutritional characteristics and performance of Holstein × Gyr crossbreed heifers grazing intensively-managed Brachiaria decumbens throughout the year. Thirty-eight heifers with average initial body weight of 172.5 ± 11.15 kg (mean ± SE) and 8.2 ± 0.54 mo of age were randomly assigned to four treatments: three protein supplements (SUP) composed of soybean meal and ground corn fed at 5g/kg of BW, plus a control group (CON). The supplements had 12, 24 and 36% of CP for treatments S12 (n = 9), S24 (n = 10), and S36 (n = 9), respectively. The experiment latest one year, subdivided into four seasons: rainy, dry, rainy-dry transition (RDT), and dry-rainy transition (DRT). Feces and pasture samples were collected for 4 days in each season, using chromium oxide, titanium dioxide, and indigestible neutral detergent fiber (NDF) to estimate fecal excretion, supplement, and pasture intake, respectively. The data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIXED of the SAS with repeated measures. No effects of supplementation were detected on pasture and NDF intake. However, SUP animals had a greater intake of DM, metabolizable energy, and metabolizable protein. A positive linear response on metabolizable protein intake was observed among SUP animals. We observed an interaction between treatment and season for all digestibility variables, with a positive linear response in CP digestibility among SUP animals during all seasons. For neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility, we observed a positive linear response in RDT and rainy seasons and a quadratic response during the dry season. Furthermore, SUP animals had greater average daily gain (ADG) than non-supplemented animals, and among SUP animals, there was a quadratic response to ADG, with the greatest gain observed in S24. We observed greater nitrogen retention coefficient in SUP animals than in non-supplemented animals and a positive linear effect among SUP animals. Supplemental CP did not affect microbial protein production and efficiency. We observed an interaction between treatment and season for blood glucose, with SUP animals having greater glucose concentration in all seasons than non-supplemented animals. Additionally, we observed a quadratic response among SUP animals only during RDT and dry season, with the greatest glucose concentration in S24. SUP animals had greater blood concentrations of urea and IGF-1. In conclusion, SUP animals had greater intake, digestibility, and performance than non-supplemented animals, with the 24% CP supplement demonstrating the best metabolic responses and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving food security remains a pressing challenge for small-scale farmers, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. Ongoing climate change, invasive noxious weeds, and crop pests further exacerbate the situation. Optimizing traditional cropping systems for sustainable yields and climate-resilient production is imperative in order to address this challenge. The pre-Columbian milpa system of intercropping maize with companion crops such as beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and squash (Cucurbita spp.) is one effective system that has been shown to produce outstanding yields per unit area compared to monoculture systems. The Push-Pull Technology developed in East Africa, based on the use of repellent and trap companion plants intercropped with maize (and to a lesser extent sorghum), is seen to be similarly effective in minimizing the impact of major pests on yields, including striga weed (Striga spp.), maize stemborers, and the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). Although both systems have the potential to compensate for each other's limitations, there has been no cross-system learning between the Mesoamerican milpa and the East African Push-Pull Technology. Here, we review both systems and present the advantages likely to be obtained by combining these technologies in small-scale farming. The proposed milpa push-pull system could adapt to different gradients of altitude, rainfall, and soil nutrient levels, in addition to controlling pests, and therefore has the potential to become a fundamental cropping technique in Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco 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.)

Abstract: The demand for techniques that make it possible to assess the physiological potential of seeds quickly and assertively make near-infrared spectroscopy (FT-NIR) and seedling analysis using ILASTIK software promising tools. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physiological potential of Urochloa decumbens seeds using near-infrared spectroscopy (FT-NIR) and ILASTIK software. Seeds from 10 lots of U. decumbens were classified according to their physiological potential (germination and vigor) and then FT-NIR spectra were obtained from individual seed samples, the original spectra being pre-processed with different dispersion correction methods used for the construction of a classification model through partial least squares discriminant analysis (PSL-DA). For the ILASTIK evaluation, the seedlings were photographed at 7 and 14 days of germination and the trained classifier was applied to the images, generating data on the numbers of strong seedlings, weak seedlings and non-germinated seeds. With data from the FT-NIR technique pre-processed by the 2nd derivative of Savitzky-Golay, it was possible to obtain a classification model with high efficiency to discriminate the classes regarding the physiological potential of the seeds. ILASTIK was efficient to classify seeds according to their physiological potential after only 7 days of germination. FT-NIR and ILASTIK analyses are non-destructive and fast alternatives, with great potential for quality control of U. decumbens seed lots.

This research focused on the implementation of different species to evaluate their efficiency in soils disturbed by clay mining. A part of the land was taken and a physical-chemical and microbiological characterization was made to know the conditions of the soil under study before applying the species, then it was divided into four plots of equal measures, of 1.5x1 m, one control and three in which we applied the respective species, this with the objective of evaluating the efficiency of the interaction of the species in the soil contaminated by mining. This study revealed the great capacity of grasses (Maize, star grass and brachiaria grass), and Fabaceae (Yaguaro and Acacia Riparia Kunth), to provide organic materials and nutrients that allowed the evaluation of the efficiency or reactivation of the contaminated soils. It should be noted that the one with the highest efficiency was plot three. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detailed morphological and molecular research has led to the conclusion that the majority of the species of the genus Brachiaria have to move to the much smaller genus Urochloa. Although many of the necessary new combinations were made, in Africa a fair number of accepted species still do not yet have a name within Urochloa. Following work on West Africa, Central Africa and Madagascar, this paper now provides these new combinations for the remaining sub-Saharan African species, as well as a full synonymy for all East African ones, including typification. In total, the paper deals with 40 species, for 12 of these new combinations are created, while 55 lectotypes and one neotype of both accepted names and synonyms are designated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contextualization: animal production systems in Colombia have been characterized by the poor availability and quality of forage, in areas such as the foothills of the plains, due to the edaphological and climatic conditions of these zones. Knowledge gap: the basis of sheep feeding is grass, although multiple factors interfere in the use and quality of nutrients. This is why it is necessary to investigate these matters and determine which are the adequate supplements to fulfill the requirements of the animal, and therefore improve their productive performance. Purpose: to analyze the nutritional contribution of a supplement to the diet of grazing sheep fed with Brachiaria spp, evaluating the productive performance and blood biochemistry of them. Methodology: the design was completely randomized with the Tukey comparison test. A total of 12 sheep were used, crossbreeds between creole and Pelibuey, with an average weight of 20.05 ± 1.0 kg. The animals were fed using grass with Brachiaria spp. and a supplementation with 100 g of commercial balanced food. The treatments were: T1: 600 g of corn silage [EMA], T2: 200 g EMA and 100 g palm kernel, T3: 400 g EMA and 100 g of wheat bran, and T4: 400 g EMA + 200 g of Tithonia diversifolia silage. The chemical quality of the food supplied and the soil where the sheep grazed were analyzed. The variables evaluated were weight gain, feed intake, feed efficiency and conversion, protein efficiency ratio and blood biochemistry. Results and conclusions: in T2, the lowest [P < 0.05] daily weight gain and final weight was obtained related to T1 [234.4 and 33.6 Vs 263.6 g and 36.3 kg respectively] as well as the lowest consumption of dry matter [1678.1 Vs 1815.8 g respectively]). The other treatments had a similar behavior [P > 0.05] in the total consumption of dry matter and protein. Serum concentrations of protein, albumin, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and calcium were similar [P > 0.05] before and after treatments, while the serum magnesium concentration after supplementation was higher [P < 0.05] in T4 related to T1 and T2. Supplements such as EMA, palm kernel, wheat bran and buttercup silage have a positive effect on sheep fed with grass and Brachiaria spp. in terms of dry matter intake, weight gain and feed conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Veterinaria is the property of Universidad Nacional del Nordeste 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.)

Twenty (20) healthy growing Yankasa rams with a mean initial live weight of 20-21kg±0.5kg were used for 120 days feeding trials to determine the growth performance and cost benefit of feeding Brachiaria Mulato II based total mixed ration. The animals were grouped into four with five animals and randomly allocated to four treatments in a completely Randomized Design animals were fed the experimental diet at 2.5,3.0,3.5 and 4% body weight. Feed intake (105.28Kkg), Daily feed intake (877.29g/day), Average daily gain (84.17g/day), and feed conversion ratio (10.42) were significantly higher (P<0.05) in animals’ fed at 4% body weight and showed a decline across the treatments as the percent body weight decreased. Feed conversion ratio (10.42) was significantly (P<0.05) lower in animals fed at 4% body weight, it was concluded that feeding Brachiaria Mulato II based total mixed ration at 4% body weight increased weight gain by 44.49% and valued at ₦ 31,600, intake by 31.40% and better feed conversion ratio (10.40). Livestock farmers are encouraged to feed Brachiaria Mulato II based total mixed ration at 60:40 ratio for improved intake, reduce feed selection, minimum feed wastage, improved utilization and Fattening and higher income (₦ 31,600). Feeding Brachiaria Mulato II based total mixed ration at 4% body weight is hereby recommended to smallholder farmers in order to reduce the cost of production in the Northern Guinea Savanna of Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rotational stocking (RS) is generally associated with the intensification of pasture‐based animal production systems, although many studies have shown little advantage over continuous stocking (CS). The objective of this research was to describe and explain the effects of two average canopy heights (20 and 30 cm) and three stocking methods (CS; rotational stocking with lenient defoliation, RSL; and rotational stocking with moderate defoliation, RSM) on forage accumulation (FA), vertical distribution of plant‐part components, and nutritive value of 'Mulato II' hybrid brachiariagrass (Brachiaria spp. syn. Urochloa spp.) during two summer rainy seasons in Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil. Pastures were maintained at average canopy height of 20 and 30 cm under CS, and treatments under RSL and RSM were imposed by variations of ±20 and 30% of the average canopy heights, representing defoliation intensities of 33 and 47% of the pre‐graze heights, respectively. The FA was not affected by CS, RSL, RSM stocking methods, averaging 8090 kg DM ha−1 year−1. Canopy bulk density and distribution of plant‐part components in the canopy profile were better at the average canopy height of 20 cm, accompanied by the greater nutritive value. The leaf bulk density was generally greater in RSM compared to CS. Pastures under CS had greater crude protein and in vitro digestible matter, and lesser neutral detergent fibre concentrations. Mulato II brachiariagrass should be managed at an average height of 20 cm under CS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two‐year experiment assessed herbage production and above‐ and below‐ground characteristics of a highly productive monoculture ('BRS Zuri' guineagrass [Panicum maximum Jacq.]) and two mixtures of three grasses (Mixture 1: 'BRS Zuri' guineagrass, 'BRS Xaraés' palisadegrass [Brachiaria brizantha Stapf.], and 'Basilisk' signalgrass [Brachiaria decumbens Stapf.]; Mixture 2: 'BRS Quênia' guineagrass [Panicum maximum Jacq.], 'Marandu' palisadegrass [Brachiaria brizantha Stapf.], and 'BRS Paiaguás' palisadegrass [Brachiaria brizantha Stapf.]), cultivated in the Brazilian tropical savanna. Mixtures 1 and 2 were subjected to two grazing intensities (removal of 40 or 60% of pre‐grazing height) and 'BRS Zuri' guineagrass monoculture was defoliated to a single grazing intensity of 50%. Treatments were randomly assigned to fifteen 0.25‐ha plots and managed under intermittent stocking by cattle. Herbage accumulation rate was similar among pastures and years (p >.1). The root mass in the tussocks did not differ (p >.1), with mean values ranging between 0.62 to 1.81 kg DM m−2. Root density in the tussock interspaces was greater in the mixtures (p <.001), regardless of seasons (p =.405) and years (p =.292). The mixtures were dominated by guineagrass (70%) and palisadegrass (30%) at the end of the experiment, with the population of 'Basilisk' and 'BRS Paiaguás' being completely suppressed throughout the experimental period. Mixing guineagrass and brachiariagrasses can be an alternative to the traditional pastoral systems in the tropics, as it does not compromise herbage production and presents a capacity to produce more roots than a very productive monoculture of 'BRS Zuri' guineagrass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land degradation has severely affected soil health and agricultural productivity in the Sasiga district of western Oromiya, Ethiopia, demanding urgent and extensive solutions. Integrated soil management in particular is a comprehensive approach that could mitigate the multifaceted effects of land degradation. Hence, a field experiment was conducted on degraded farmers' land to assess the potential of lime, organic amendments, tillage, and soil–water conservation (SWC) in improving the productivity of soil and Brachiaria (Mulato II). The experiment employed 15 treatments, which were systematically formulated from lime, organic amendments (compost and cattle manure), the SWC method (constructed soil bunds and no soil bunds), and tillage practices (ploughing and no‐ploughing). The study showed that applying lime with tillage or both tillage and SWC and organic amendments alone improved soil pH from very strongly acidic to moderately acidic. The combined application of lime, SWC, and tillage also enhanced the organic carbon, organic matter, total nitrogen, and moisture contents of the soil. Besides, the integrated use of cattle manure, SWC, and tillage practices boosted plant cover, tillering, plant height (PH), and dry biomass of Brachiaria (Mulato II). Consequently, the physicochemical properties of the degraded soil and the agronomic performance of Brachiaria can be improved by amending with combinations of lime or cattle manure with SWC and tillage. In general, integrating multiple soil management practices, including lime, organic amendments, SWC, and tillage, offers a whole‐system approach to rehabilitating degraded soil and improving its physicochemical properties and productivity of Brachiaria grass. Core Ideas: Land degradation is a serious impediment to improving soil health and agricultural productivity in Ethiopia.Integrated soil management could mitigate the multifaceted effects of land degradation.Amending the degraded soil with combination of lime, soil–water conservation, and tillage improved soil properties.The integrated use of manure, soil–water conservation, and tillage boosted the productivity of Brachiaria.Integrating multiple soil management practices can entirely restore degraded land and improve crop productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate inoculation response to Azospirillum baldaniorum strain Sp245 in 14 Urochloa cultivars. The evaluated cultivars were: Marandú, Xaraés, Paiaguás, Piatã, Basilisk, B140, Comum, Tupi, H47, Llanero, Ruziziensis, Ipyporã, Mulato, and Convert HD364. Three experiments were conducted to measure root traits: two using soil and one a sterile substrate. Compared with the control, a single application of A. baldaniorum Sp245 increases dry matter accumulation and number of roots in cultivars Marandú, Llanero, Ruziziensis, and Convert HD364. However, after inoculation, cultivars Xaraés and Ipyporã show some root traits with lower values.

The use of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) to spray pesticides currently occurs, but knowledge about this technology is lacking due to the different locations, targets, and products applied. The objective of this study was to evaluate the control of Urochloa decumbens with glyphosate applied using an RPA (10 L ha−1) equipped with different spray nozzles (XR 11001 and AirMix 11001). For the purpose of comparison, ground application was also performed (100 L ha−1). The deposition was evaluated by means of the quantification of a tracer by spectrophotometry, the droplet spectrum was evaluated with water-sensitive paper, and the control efficiency was evaluated based on visual measurements with percentage scores. Statistical process control was used to analyse the quality of the deposition in the area. The results showed that the application via RPA presented a greater amount of tracer on the leaves than the ground application, suggesting that the former is a good option for application, even providing a lower coverage and number of droplets per area. Both application methods were effective at controlling Urochloa decumbens. The nozzles showed potential for use in applications, with control efficiency higher than 84% from 21 days after application. The percentage of droplets smaller than 100 μm in the applications was less than 5%. No nonrandom behaviour was observed during deposition, indicating a high-quality process.

Inadequate and poor-quality feed resources are a key constraining factor in livestock production that compromises the livelihoods of many women and men dependent on livestock, who can be found in most low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Several forage varieties have been developed, which are targeted to smallholder farmers in developing countries, yet the level of adoption remains low, particularly among women farmers. Adoption of varieties could enhance livelihoods by increasing livestock productivity and also by providing an income from the sale of surplus forage. However, evidence on gendered barriers to and incentives for the adoption of forage varieties is scarce. This study explores the gender dynamics influencing the uptake and commercialization of a forage variety, Brachiaria (syn. Urochloa), among women and men farmers in four subcounties in Kenya. Through a mixed-methods approach, 260 individuals (59 women and 201 men) belonging to a household where at least one individual is a member of a dairy cooperative were interviewed. Complementary data from qualitative interviews engaging 16 single-sex focus group discussions (FGDs) and 8 key informant interviews (KIIs) were collected. Results reveal that Brachiaria is accessible to both women and men. Dairy cooperatives are important means for women and men to access extension services, useful information, and planting materials, but only a few women are cooperative members. Men face constraints owing to small land areas, rather than the ownership and access problems that constrain women. These challenges privilege men as de facto owners of resources while subordinating women and disenfranchising them in terms of adopting this technology. Complex yet important pathways for women’s and men’s empowerment exist through the sale of planting materials, hay bales, and an increased volume of milk obtained when cows are fed with Brachiaria. We conclude that cooperative membership for men should be supported, while at the same time gender norms that reduce women’s engagement with cooperatives, and their access to and control over land, should be challenged.

The intercropped of cultures and biological organisms are sustainable ways to produce due to the benefits for the environment, soil, and plant, in addition to reducing costs in cultivation. The objective was to evaluate the influence of doses of Azospirillum brasilense in two soil classes in the cultivation of single maize and in intercropping with Brachiaria ruziziensis. The experimental design was in randomized block, in a 2 × 2 × 3 factorial scheme, with six replications. First factor being two soils: Latossolo Vermelho Eutrófico (clayish) and Latossolo Vermelho Distrófico (sandy); the second factor two types of cultivation: single maize and intercropped with B. ruziziensis; the third inoculation factor: without inoculant, with one dose (120 mL per 50 kg of seed), and with two doses of A. brasilense. The potential of clayey soils had high values in relation to sandy soil for the trait hundred grain weight, and, also when associated in intercrop of maize with brachiaria for plant height, number of grains per ear had higher values than in sandy soils. One or two doses of A. brasilense in clayey soil and intercropped of maize with brachiaria resulted in higher maize grain yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Brachiaria humidicola, a tropical grass, could release root exudates with biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) capacity and reduce soil nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from grasslands. However, evidence of the reduction effect in situ in tropical grasslands in China is lacking. Methods: To evaluate the potential effects of B. humidicola on soil N2O emissions, a 2-year (2015-2017) field experiment was established in a Latosol and included eight treatments, consisting of two pastures, non-native B. humidicola and a native grass, Eremochloa ophiuroide, with four nitrogen (N) application rates. The annual urea application rates were 0, 150, 300, and 450 kg N ha-1. Results: The average 2-year E. ophiuroides biomass with and without N fertilization were 9.07-11.45 and 7.34 t ha-1, respectively, and corresponding values for B. humidicola increased to 31.97-39.07 and 29.54 t ha-1, respectively. The N-use efficiencies under E. ophiuroide and B. humidicola cultivation were 9.3-12.0 and 35.5-39.4%, respectively. Annual N2O emissions in the E. ophiuroides and B. humidicola fields were 1.37 and 2.83 kg N2O-N ha-1, respectively, under no N fertilization, and 1.54-3.46 and 4.30-7.19 kg N2O-N ha-1, respectively, under N fertilization. Discussions: According to the results, B. humidicola cultivation increased soil N2O emissions, especially under N fertilization. This is because B. humidicola exhibited the more effective stimulation effect on N2O production via denitrification primarily due to increased soil organic carbon and exudates than the inhibition effect on N2O production via autotrophic nitrification. Annual yield-scaled N2O emissions in the B. humidicola treatment were 93.02-183.12 mg N2O-N kg-1 biomass, which were significantly lower than those in the E. ophiuroides treatment. Overall, our results suggest that cultivation of the non-native grass, B. humidicola with BNI capacity, increased soil N2O emissions, while decreasing yield-scaled N2O emissions, when compared with native grass cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of forage legumes to contribute biologically fixed nitrogen (N) to pastures is an alternative to increase beef cattle production in tropical regions. The objective was to compare the impact of the introduction of a legume with that of N fertilizer application on forage and animal production in Brachiaria pastures. This two‐year study assessed three pasture treatments: (1) mixed Marandu palisadegrass (Brachiaria brizantha [syn. Urochloa brizantha] cv. Marandu) and the legume "ovalifolium" (Desmodium ovalifolium) cv. Itabela (Mixed), (2) Marandu palisadegrass pastures with 150 kg N ha−1 (Fertilized), and (3) Marandu palisadegrass without N fertilizer (Unfertilized). Rotational stocking with a variable stocking rate was used with a target herbage allowance of 1.0 kg forage kg body weight−1. The pre‐grazing green herbage mass was similar for Fertilized and Mixed pastures, with 54% and 63% more mass than Unfertilized pasture, respectively (p <.001). Cattle that grazed the fertilized pasture had the greatest average daily gain (ADG; p =.017). The stocking rate and liveweight gain per area were greatest for the Fertilized and Mixed pastures (p <.001 and p <.001, respectively). No differences between treatments were found for DM forage intake (p =.555). Organic matter digestibility was lowest (p <.001) for the Mixed pasture. The inclusion of the ovalifolium legume in the Marandu pasture had the same impact on beef cattle production as annual fertilization with 150 kg N ha−1. The potential and environmental benefits of ovalifolium are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the low fertility acid soils of the Orinoquian savannas of Colombia, Urochloa humidicola cv. Tully or Humidicola is one of the most widely planted tropical forage grasses for improving livestock productivity. Low nutritional quality of this grass limits sustainable livestock production in this region. In this study, we conducted a phenotypic evaluation under field and greenhouse conditions of one of the first hybrid populations of U. humidicola generated from the forage breeding program of CIAT. Our objective was to identify a set of new hybrids of U. humidicola that combine improved productivity and nutritional quality plus the biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) trait/ability to reduce nitrogen (N) losses via leaching and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. To this end, we tested 118 hybrids (planted in pots) in the greenhouse for over 6 months and measured potential nitrification rates (NR) using soil microcosm incubation. NR values observed ranged from 0.27 to 5.75 mg N‐NO3− kg soil−1 day−1. Later, 12 hybrids with different levels of NR were selected and field‐tested in the Orinoquia region over a 4 years period (2013–2017) for dry matter production, nutrition quality (crude protein, in vitro digestibility and fibres content) and NR in each year. In the rainy season of 2018, two hybrids with superior agronomic performance and contrasting field level NR (Uh08/1149 and 0450) were subjected to analysis of soil‐borne N2O emissions after fertilization during 13 days. The NR values recorded were not directly correlated with the forage quality parameters evaluated, however, the two grasses with the lowest NR values were among those with the highest biomass production, crude protein content, and N uptake. The grass hybrid Uh08/1149 and the germplasm accession CIAT 16888 were found as materials with superior forage value, with production of 14.1 and 14.6 tons dry matter ha−1 year−1 (up to 8% higher than the cv. Tully), crude protein of 11.5 and 9.1% per cut (up to 20% higher than the cv. Tully), and N uptake of 31.6 and 25.7 kg N ha−1 cut−1 (up to 30% higher than the cv. Tully). Additionally, these two grasses are likely to exhibit high‐BNI ability, with potential to improve N use efficiency in managed pastures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New hybrid grass cultivars may enhance animal performance in forage‐livestock systems if they possess traits that address edaphoclimatic challenges and pest susceptibility. The objective was to assess herbage accumulation, plant‐part composition, nutritive value, and animal performance of 'Ipyporã' [Brachiaria ruziziensis Germ. & Evrard × B. brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf] and 'Mulato II' (B. ruziziensis × B. brizantha × B. decumbens Stapf) hybrids in the Brazilian Amazon biome. From May 2016 to May 2018, pastures were maintained under continuous stocking with variable stocking rates to maintain canopy height at 30‐cm. Herbage accumulation (HA) was greater in Mulato II (17,370 kg dry matter [DM] ha−1 year−1) than Ipyporã pastures (14,930 kg DM ha−1 year−1) across the years. In Year 1, Mulato II had greater stocking rate (1685 vs. 1215 kg body weight [BW] ha−1) and greater gain ha−1 (1130 vs. 850 kg) than Ipyporã. However, in Year 2, both cultivars had similar plant and animal responses. The Year 1 ADG was similar among cultivars or seasons but in Year 2, rainy seasons had 21 and 77% greater ADG than dry seasons for Mulato II and Ipyporã, respectively. Both cultivars can contribute to the diversification of pasture‐based livestock systems in humid tropical regions. Mulato II presented superior performance when soil moisture and fertility were not limiting (i.e., Year 1). However, both cultivars provide similar plant and animal responses in Year 2, offering viable alternatives for the diversification of pasture‐based livestock systems in the Amazon Biome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evaluation of the nutritional value and parameters of ruminal fermentation of tropical forages is important, aiming at its efficient use in ruminant feeding. This study was developed to evaluate the forage accumulation, chemical composition, protodioscin content, digestibility, and in vitro degradation kinetics of different Brachiaria spp. cultivars in different evaluation periods. The research was carried out in the semi-arid region of Brazil, from April 2016 to April 2017. The experiment was laid out as a split-plot arrangement in a randomized block design in which five cultivars (B. decumbens cv. Basilisk, and B. brizantha cvs. Marandu, Paiaguás, Piatã, and Xaraés) represented the plot and four evaluation periods (establishment, transition, dry, and rainy) the subplot. There was a cultivar × period interaction effect for forage accumulation rate (FAR), for which cv. Xaraés showed the highest mean (54.1 kg/ha.day DM) in the rainy season. The lowest yield was found in cv. Paiaguás in the dry season (24.1 kg/ha.day DM). Cultivars Basilisk, Marandu, and Paiaguás had the highest crude protein content. The highest in vitro dry matter digestibility values were found in cv. Basilisk in the dry, transition, and rainy periods; cv. Marandu in the transition period, and cvs. Paiaguás and Piatã in their establishment. A correlation was found between the parameters of in vitro degradation kinetics and chemical composition. The protodioscin content was highest in cv. Basilisk, during its establishment (5.5 g/kg DM). Cultivars Paiaguás, Piatã, and Xaraés showed low protodioscin values (<1.0 g/kg DM). Cultivars Basilisk, Marandu, Paiaguás, Piatã, and Xaraés can be used as forage options in the semi-arid environment, as their forage accumulation potential and nutritional value are suitable for animal production even in periods of lower water availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Soil quality nearby the industrial area is beyond the permissible limits. • Bacillus cereus showed considerable metal tolerance along with PGP activities. • B. mutica effectively removed the metals from soil under the influence of B. cereus. • Test bacterial species effectively mobilize and absorb the metals from soil. • B. cereus showed optimistic effect on metal absorption potential of B.mutica. Anthropogenic activities are severely polluting the environment, particularly the soil. The quality of soil near the industrial area was investigated as well as the positive interaction between metal tolerance Bacillus cereus and Brachiaria mutica under greenhouse conditions. Furthermore, the PGP attributes of this B. cereus , as well as their impact on B. mutica growth and metal removal potential, were investigated. The soil quality parameters pH, EC, NPK, As, Cd, Cr, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn were also investigated. Standard methods were used to determine the physicochemical properties of the test soil sample. The metal tolerance and pollutant remediation potential of Bacillus cereus and Brachiaria mutica , as well as their positive interactions, were determined using the agar plate and greenhouse methods, respectively. Most of the soil parameters were found that were not meet the permissible standards. B. cereus possesses considerable tolerance to heavy metals (As, Cd, Mn, Cr, Fe, Pb, & Zn) up to 250 mg L-1 dosage. B. cereus also showed remarkable metal mobilization and metal absorption potential and significant PGP natures, which enhance the growth and essential biomolecule content as well as remediation potential of B. mutica. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving phosphorus (P) use efficiency is key to improving the productivity and sustainability of cropping systems and slowing the exploitation rate of mineral P resources required for fertilizer production. At present, large amounts of added P in fertilizers and manure each year are retained in the soil and are not used by the crop. This 'legacy P' progressively accumulates in soil and represents an untapped P resource in tropical soils while in temperate soils it contributes to eutrophication. In the context of legacy P, the aim of this study was to quantify changes in soil P pools of contrasting bioavailability (determined using conventional chemical extraction procedures) during 12 successive brachiaria (Urochloa ruziziensis) cropping cycles in which no additional P was added. The study was undertaken in the greenhouse with 10 tropical (Brazil) and 6 temperate (UK) agricultural topsoils. Above-ground dry matter yield (DM) and P offtake was measured at each harvest alongside operationally-defined measures of the labile, moderately-labile and non-labile P pools at the start and end of the experiment. Over twelve repeated cultivation cycles, brachiaria demonstrated an ability to efficiently mine legacy P from all measurable soil pools across both sets of soils. This included the depletion of up to 87 % of non-labile soil P in some soils from the UK and up to 66 % from soils in Brazil after one year. While the amounts of initial labile P showed the closest positive relationship with plant P export, contrary to expectation the non-labile P pool also clearly contributed to plant nutrition across all the soils. As a cover crop, brachiaria clearly possesses traits which enable both the solubilization and efficient capture of soil P that can be harnessed to actively recycle historically non recalcitrant soil P fractions. Incorporating brachiaria into crop rotations or intercropping systems therefore shows promise as a strategy to enhance the longer-term sustainability of soil P management. • Brachiaria extracted P from labile and recalcitrant non-labile P pools in soil. • Soil labile and non-labile P content regulates plant uptake of legacy P rather than P adsorption strength. • Organic P was shown to directly contribute to plant P supply, contrary to recalcitrance paradigms. • Brachiaria cover crops can enhance P use efficiency by solubilizing soil legacy P. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze farmers’ perceptions of maize production constraints and determine the effects of push–pull technology (PPT) on crop yield, pest control, and improving soil fertility status. Increasing fertilizer prices and pesticide prices, FAWs (fall armyworms) and stemborers, declining soil fertility, and drought are the main maize production constraints in the area. Seventy percent of the respondents indicated that an increase in input prices such as those of fertilizer and seeds is the major constraint in the area, while FAWs (55%) and stemborers (44.3%) were ranked the third and fourth major constraints. About 67% of farmers reported that stemborer damage to maize in PPT plots was either minimal or non-existent. Fifty-five percent of farmers stated that the damage caused to maize by FAWs was low or that there was no damage in PPT plots. PPT reduced stem borer infestation from 83% to 44%. The yield gained from PPT plots ranged from 18% to 31%. Soil samples taken from PPT plots showed improved soil organic carbon, organic matter, total nitrogen, and cation exchange capacity.

No-tillage systems (NTSs) are generally known for their beneficial effects, whether on soil attributes or the yield of the target crop. For instance, research has explored the benefits of growing target crops, such as soybean or cotton, on soil previously occupied by a cover crop. However, fewer studies have investigated the potential negative implications of NTSs. Since, certain cover crops can release exudates harmful to other plants, there is a need to fill this knowledge gap. To this end, this study used four experiments to investigate the effects of two species of Urochloa on cotton germination, plant emergence, and biomass production. In the first two experiments, cotton germination was evaluated by placing seeds on paper rolls moistened with different concentrations of root washings of Urochloa plants cultivated for 45 days in tubes kept in a greenhouse, and desiccated with or without glyphosate. In the other two experiments, the emergence and biomass production of cotton were evaluated, which was sown in pots where two species of Urochloa were previously grown and subsequently desiccated or not with glyphosate, and managed in three ways: a) the entire plant of Urochloa spp. was kept in the pot (shoots and roots in the soil), b) only the aerial parts of Urochloa spp. were kept on the soil surface, and c) only the roots of Urochloa spp. were kept in the soil. Cotton seed germination was negatively affected by Urochloa spp. root washings. Both the emergence percentage and emergence speed index of the cotton plants were negatively affected when only the leaves of Urochloa spp. were kept in the soil with and without glyphosate desiccation. No adverse effect of the treatments (pre-cultivation and management of Urochloa spp.) on the production of cotton shoot and root biomass was observed.

Mulato grass species have been introduced to the farmer in Indonesia due to their ability to provide feed for ruminant with high quality and biomass. However geographical, climatic, and soil quality (texture and properties) and management determined the quality of the grass or vice versa. Fertilizer and spacing were also affected the production of mulato.This study aimed to characterize and evaluate soil texture and properties and nutritive values of mulato grass grown in highlands Indonesia. This research was carried out in two different sites /location in Pangalengan, West Java, Indonesia. The sites that explored have different in the fertilizer and spacing of the grass (Pangalenga A and Pangalengan B). This research covered the characterization of geographical, climatic, and soil texture and characteristics/properties of those two sites, and tried to associate those characteristics into nutritive values of Mulato grass. Purposive sampling sample were used in this study and the data were descriptive interpreted. Results showed Pangalengan B site with high amount of fertilizer and shorter broadcast linear spacing had higher soil properties. However Pangalengan A site had better nutrient composition of mulato grass due to better this site received more solar radiation. In conclusion, beside soil properties and environment condition, soil texture and solar radiation will determine the nutritive composition of mulato grass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fresh cheese is a food with great demand by consumers due to the sensory characteristics and emotions that it evokes when consumed. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of the type of cattle feeding (Bos taurus L.) on the sensory properties, emotions and consumer preference of fresh cheese. Six cheeses were made, which corresponded to each type of diet: (1) ground corn silage, (2) Brachiaria decumbens and chicken manure, (3) Brachiaria humidicola dry with molasses, (4) Brachiaria decumbens and feed, (5) Brachiaria decumbens, and (6) Brachiaria Brizantha. The cheeses were characterized by quantitative descriptive analysis, Temporal Dominance of Sensations, determination of emotions, and preference analysis. The results indicated that diet type (5) generates acidic, salty cheeses with a juicy texture and a salty aftertaste. The dominant attributes were: salty, whey aroma, smooth texture, and salty aftertaste. "Good", "enthusiastic" and "calm" positive emotions were evoked by cheeses (1), (2) and (6). The rest evoked the negative emotions "worried", "upset" and "aggressive". Consumers had a marked preference for cheese (6) and (2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the association between two tropical grasses, Signal grass (Brachiaria decumbens) and Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) on the proximate composition, in vitro digestibility, and fermentation characteristics of ensiled material. A complete randomized design was used on three treatments namely Signal grass, Napier grass, and Signal-Napier grass combination. Silage was made using molasses applied in proportions of 1:2 with water and mixed with silage at the rate of 5% for a 5kg bag of 2.5cm cut grass. Signal-Napier grass combination silage was superior in almost all parameters to the two sole crop silages. After ensiling, a significant difference (p<0.05) in most parameters was recorded. A significant difference (p=0.0004) in pH was determined where pH was lower in the sole Napier grass silage than that of the Signal-Napier combination and Signal grass. A similar outcome (P<0.05) was recorded for crude protein, ash, ether extracts, nitrogen-free extracts, and neutral detergent fiber. However, no significant difference (p>0.05) was obtained in dry matter (p=0.1524), crude fiber (p=0.5924), and ADF (p=0.1168). Although having poor digestibility values in all treatments, Signal grass proved to be better than the rest. Organoleptic characteristics were promising, with normal color, smell, and texture changes observed. These results indicated that the association of grasses had an impressive positive effect on the nutritional value and quality of silages. Therefore, the use of mixed grass silages is encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Maranhão State, Brazil, soils are naturally acidic, nutrient-deficient, and prone to cohesion and erosion. Removing the natural cover to establish pastures causes physical, chemical, and biological changes in the soil. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the contents and stocks of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and particle-size fractions of soil organic matter (SOM) in pastures with different years of recovery, and compare them with a secondary forest in the Legal Amazon. Four treatments were evaluated: secondary forest, perennial pasture, and perennial pastures recovered for five years and eight years, both of the latter through corn + brachiaria intercropping. The contents and stocks of total organic carbon, total nitrogen, C, and N from the soil organic matter particle-size fractions, as well as the carbon management indexes (CMI) of the 0.00-0.10, 0.10-0.20, 0.20-0.30, and 0.30-0.40 m layers were evaluated. The perennial pasture environment presented the highest total soil C and N contents; however, when observing the granulometric fractions and CMI, these increases were qualitative in relation to the secondary forest. Pasture recovery over eight years contributed to an improvement of soil quality similar to secondary forest, indicating that an increase in SOM quality, quantity, and recovery time related to increased pasture capacity to accumulate C and N in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the soil carbon efflux and pasture growth during summer-fall and winter-spring in two different years based on field and lysimeter experiments. Soil respiration, soil and air temperatures, leaf photosynthesis, plant dry weight, and leaf area index are quantified to characterize the influence of seasonality in the Brachiaria growth, production, and efflux. It is found that the transient variation of CO2 efflux was highly correlated with rainfall (r = 0.87, p < 0.05), but least correlated with soil temperatures (r = 0.5, p < 0.05). The CO2 efflux and plant response to different levels of reposition of evapotranspiration (irrigation) demonstrated that irrigation during the dry season reduces growth of Brachiaria in response to lower soil moisture and low temperatures. It is found that lower temperatures are a limiting factor when the soil moisture is below 32% of the field capacity. Moreover, it has been observed that soil moisture by around 50% is a key practice for mitigating the effect of seasonality. Insofar as CO2 efflux is concerned, it is found that even at low and moderate temperatures, precipitation leads to changes in soil CO2 efflux due to the amount of soil moisture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims Diploid and polyploid Urochloa (including Brachiaria , Panicum and Megathyrsus species) C4 tropical forage grasses originating from Africa are important for food security and the environment, often being planted in marginal lands worldwide. We aimed to characterize the nature of their genomes, the repetitive DNA and the genome composition of polyploids, leading to a model of the evolutionary pathways within the group including many apomictic species. Methods Some 362 forage grass accessions from international germplasm collections were studied, and ploidy was determined using an optimized flow cytometry method. Whole-genome survey sequencing and molecular cytogenetic analysis were used to identify chromosomes and genomes in Urochloa accessions belonging to the ' brizantha ' and ' humidicola ' agamic complexes and U. maxima. Key Results Genome structures are complex and variable, with multiple ploidies and genome compositions within the species, and no clear geographical patterns. Sequence analysis of nine diploid and polyploid accessions enabled identification of abundant genome-specific repetitive DNA motifs. In situ hybridization with a combination of repetitive DNA and genomic DNA probes identified evolutionary divergence and allowed us to discriminate the different genomes present in polyploids. Conclusions We suggest a new coherent nomenclature for the genomes present. We develop a model of evolution at the whole-genome level in diploid and polyploid accessions showing processes of grass evolution. We support the retention of narrow species concepts for Urochloa brizantha , U. decumbens and U. ruziziensis , and do not consider diploids and polyploids of single species as cytotypes. The results and model will be valuable in making rational choices of parents for new hybrids, assist in use of the germplasm for breeding and selection of Urochloa with improved sustainability and agronomic potential, and assist in measuring and conserving biodiversity in grasslands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Seed Science is the property of Associacao Brasileira de Tecnologia de Sementes 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.)

A new fungus, Viscospora peruviscosa, was detected in a Theobroma cacao plantation in the Huallaga province of San Martín State in Peru. The fungus was propagated in the greenhouse on Sorghum vulgare and Brachiaria brizantha. The fungus is similar to V. viscosa as it has two spore wall layers and also a viscose outer spore surface, but its spores are smaller ((30-)44-56(-65) × (25-)44-54 µm) and the subtending hyphae generally are more pronounced funnel-shaped. Also, the walls of the spores and subtending hyphae are thinner than in V. viscosa. Phylogenetically, both species form two well separated sister clades in the genus Viscospora. Based on the partial nrDNA gene, the two species have 90-91% maximum identity (MI). So far, the fungus is only known from the cacao plantation in Huallaga. No environmental sequences in the public data bases suggest that the fungus has already been found elsewhere in the neotropics or worldwide. This is the second species in the genus Viscospora (Glomeraceae) described, hence Viscospora is no longer monospecific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Saúde e Produção Animal (RBSPA) is the property of Revista Brasileira de Saude e Producao Animal (RBSPA) 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 objective was to evaluate in the field the efficiency of native arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi associated with forage production in the grass species Bothriochloa pertusa (L) A. Camus in livestock farms in the municipality of Corozal, department of Sucre, Colombia. The work consisted of three stages: laboratory, greenhouse and on-farm efficiency test. During the on-farm efficiency test, the production of green forage, dry matter, nutritional content of the grass species, spore density and infection percentage were evaluated. The number of spores/100 g soil and the percentage of root infection found on the cattle farms ranged from (900) 2600 - 4000 (7300) and (30) 41 - 65 (76) respectively. Thirty-one native morphotypes of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi were isolated, distributed in two genera Glomus and Gigospora, with species of the genus Glomus predominating. The 8 morphotypes evaluated in the greenhouse showed different degrees of colonisation on Brachiaria decumbens roots. Morphotypes 5, 18 and 22 showed the highest spore densities/100 grams of soil. The results show that the morphotypes tested in sterile soils showed high efficiency in forage production in colosoana grass, high phosphorus concentration in plant tissues, high spore density and percentage of colonization in roots, results very similar to the effects of the mixture of morphotypes in natural soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]