Agro Productividad

Comparative analysis of four corn (Zea mays L.) varieties, transformed from grain corn into tortilla

2024-12-12T18:06:52+00:00

Objective To identify the corn variety with the best yield, nutrients, flavor, and profitability to use as main input for a future tortillería (tortilla store) operated by the Sociedad de Producción Rural Campo Lima (SCL). A mixed research methodology was used to compare key values of the transformation chain of corn grains into nixtamalized tortilla. In addition, interviews with key players and participant observation were used as information tools and included weights, properties, and yields of the tortillerías. The findings allowed a comparative evaluation of the four corn varieties (Niebla, HS-2, native corn, and Sinaloa) and included the following yield indicators: nixtamalization-to-dough-to-tortilla, nutrient content, sensory perception, and benefit/cost analysis. The hybrid HS-2 (developed by the Colegio de Postgraduados) stood out with the highest average value. A limitation was the scarce literature about this type of research carried out in semi-mechanized tortillerías. In conclusion, the identification and selection of the most efficient and balanced corn input will help the small producers of the Sociedad de Producción Rural Campo-Lima to carry out a better decision-making process and responsibly invest in the creation of a tortillería. This step will get them closer to a fair market inclusion, consequently, generating a fair income. This process will add value to the corn they grow and will motivate new generations to continue sowing corn.

WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT IN RURAL COMMUNITIES OF NORTHERN PUEBLA

2024-12-12T18:09:27+00:00

Objective: To identify the organizational forms that communities use to manage water, establishing the dialogical factors that communities build to strengthen their water-based ties. Methodology: The study was conducted in eight communities of the Sierra Norte of Puebla. An action research approach was used to study community water management in eight auxiliary boards of the municipality of Ixtacamaxtitlán, state of Puebla. Results: Seven water sources were identified, including one intercommunity source. The 8 auxiliary boards are built around these sources and they are organized to manage the home and irrigation water supply as a community. Differences in organization were identified depending on the land ownership type of the water source location, water fees, number of users, and years of management of the source. Study Limitations/Implications: The mining conflicts in the study region limited field work. Conclusions: Users have more access to water sources in ejidos than in small private properties. In the first case, water is considered a collective resource, while in the second case, water is a private resource.

Assessing sustainability in Puebla’s artisanal mezcal production: Insights from a composite indicator approach

2024-12-12T18:11:59+00:00

Objective: To assess the sustainability of the artisanal mezcal production system in the state of Puebla using composite indicators.

Methodology: A sample of 42 producers and their artisanal mezcal production facilities, known as palenques were selected using the snowball sampling method. Data were analyzed using variance analysis (ANOVA), multivariate analysis, and regression analysis. The SAFA framework (Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agriculture) guided the selection of 17 indicators grouped into the economic, social, and environmental dimensions, to derive a Composite Sustainability Index (CSI) of each mezcal production unit. Analysis was conducted for the entire sample and clusters generated through cluster analysis.

Result: The average CSI for artisanal mezcal production (and its standard deviation) was 0.45 (0.2033), comprising economic (0.596, 0.2366), social (0.398, 0.2161), and environmental (0.437, 0.196) dimensions. ANOVA revealed significant differences in CSI between groups. The highest value of the CSI was obtained in the group of high-scale producers (0.539), followed by medium-scale (0.427), and low scale producers (0.393).

Conclusions: Artisanal production systems demonstrate low sustainability levels, impacted by limited training, excessive agave usage, and minimal recycling practices for inputs.

Effects of nine monoculture agricultural systems on the fertility of an agricultural soil

2024-12-12T18:13:24+00:00

Objective: Determine and evaluate the effect of monoculture practices on the levels of seven soil fertility indicators

Design/Methodology/Approach: Nine monoculture agricultural systems were evaluated, in completely randomized blocks with four repetitions, during the 2012-2016 period. The plot was divided into 9 sections with four repetitions, giving a total of 36 plots where the 9 local systems studied were distributed until the conclusion of the experiment in 2020.The SAS VS 9 system was used for the statistical analysis of the results.

Results: The results indicated that the agricultural systems changed the chemical characteristics of the soil, highlighting four monoculture systems that included legumes (beans and fava beans) or the corn-bean (MF) and corn-fava bean (MH) combinations, which improved the organic matter (OM), total N (TN), and P content of the soil.

Study Limitations/Implications: The small plots that were contaminated by the tillage actions of continuous treatments, caused the conclusion of the experiment. Everything indicates that treatments can be reduced and the size of the plots increased.

Findings/Conclusions: The results indicated that the agricultural systems changed the chemical characteristics of the soil, highlighting four monoculture systems that included legumes (beans and fava beans) or the corn-bean (MF) and corn-fava bean (MH) combinations, which improved the organic matter (OM), total N (TN), and P content of the soil.

Effect of bioinputs on milpa production, in three communities of the Sierra Nevada, Puebla

2024-12-12T18:15:10+00:00

Objective: To evaluate the effect of the Supermix bioinput on milpa yield, using local technologies practiced by producers from three communities of the Sierra Nevada.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The milpa —a polyculture that consists of maize, beans, and squash— provides a diversity of nutritious foods for families, with production ranges that are constant throughout the region. Applying bioinputs opens the possibility of improving these ranges. The Supermix was applied in five 30-m long rows in 9 producer-managed milpa plots, in order to carry out an exploratory measurement of its effect on the productive levels of the polyculture. For comparative purposes, the average yields of the milpa were estimated, both in the 5 rows in which the Supermix was applied and in the rest of the plot (control).

Results: In the three communities under study, the milpa produced in average 2.51 t of maize, 170.6 kg of beans, and 122.9 kg of squash seed per hectare; meanwhile, the control produced 2.57 tons of maize, 159.3 kg of beans, and 99.6 kg of squash seed. The total yield of the milpa system (sum of all products) to which the Supermix was applied was 2,804 kg ha^-1, while the control system recorded 2,828 kg ha^-1.

Study Limitations/Implications: Drought, pest damage, and previous bean harvests influenced the results.

Findings/Conclusions: The average yields of beans and squash to which Supermix was applied were higher than with the control, opening opportunities for innovation. Additionally, work in the milpa is mostly carried out by women.

Thrips species (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) and their abundance on avocado (Persea americana Mill.) in Tetela del Volcán, Morelos, Mexi-co

2024-12-12T18:18:34+00:00

Objective: To determine the thrips population behavior found in two avocado orchards and their distribution over time.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Twenty trees were sampled from each orchard. Four 1.5-2 m tall inflorescences or plant sprouts (covering all four cardinal points) were taken randomly from each tree. Insects collected in the field were quantified and characterized in the laboratory. Thrips were identified based on their morphological characteristics. Analysis of variance and comparison of means were carried out. Various simulations were also performed to determine the number of predatory thrips that should be released to control the pest population.

Results: Two phytophagous thrips species (Frankliniella difficilis and Scirtothrips perseae) and two predatory thrips species (Frankliniella difficilis and Leptothrips sp.) were identified in Orchard 1. In Orchard 2, only phytophagous thrips (Frankliniella difficilis and Scirtothrips perseae) were identified. Releasing 525 predatory thrips would control the initial pest population in the study orchards.

Study Limitations/Implications: Further research should be carried out regarding the use of morphological identification, which by itself may result in an underestimation of the specific diversity of thrips.

Findings/Conclusions: Only phytophagous thrips species were initially identified in this study, while predatory thrips species were subsequently observed. The simulation indicated that the number of predators was insufficient to control the pest population

Behavior and management of thrips population using biorational insecticides in avocado (Persea americana MILL.) trees

2024-12-12T18:20:16+00:00

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of biorational insecticides to control thrips and to provide alternatives that reduce the negative environmental impact of chemical pesticides on the management of avocado tree.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Using a randomized complete block design with four replicates, the following five treatments were evaluated: T1) control (water); T2) chicalote (Argemone mexicana L.) extract; T3) neem (Azadirachta indica) oil extract; T4) potassium soap (potassium salts); and T5) Spinosad (Spinosyn A and Spinosyn D). Each product was applied in its own row. Treatment rows were separated by a row of trees to which no treatment was applied. Samples were taken in different dates from plant and floral sprouts of four randomly selected avocado trees. Each tree was an experimental unit.

Results: The data obtained did not comply with the normality test and the homogeneity of variance; consequently, the data were subjected to a General Additive Model (GAM). The most efficient treatments were neem oil extract and Spinosad.

Study Limitations/Implications: Different orchards, with different initial pest populations, should be evaluated to determine the level of infestation in which the application of biorational products is still feasible for pest control.

Findings/Conclusions: Plant extracts have high potential to control thrips in open-air avocado plantations; consequently, they could be an alternative to the application of synthetic insecticides for pest management.

Biodiversity in family backyard systems of the municipality of Calpan, Puebla

2024-12-12T18:22:30+00:00

Objective: To determine the social usefulness of the backyard system biodiversity for rural families in the municipality of Calpan, Puebla.

Design/Methodology/Approach: One-hundred questionnaires were applied to informants of the selected families. The selection was based on a non-probability snowball sampling, using saturation to generate the maximum amount of data. The SPSS software was used to analyze data.

Results: Backyard systems have a great biodiversity, including vegetables, fruits, ornamental plants, medicinal plants, and animal species. Women carry out most of the work (65%), using biodiversity as a strategy to produce food, generate income and jobs, and preserve medicinal and other plants used for spiritual development.

Study Limitations/Implications: The lack of family backyard records hindered the accurate calculation of the sample size.

Findings/Conclusions: The collection and preservation of local biodiversity is the basis of backyard systems where vegetables, medicinal and ornamental plants, and animal species are produced as part of a family strategy.

Inclusion of amaranth (Amaranthus sp.) as a protein source in the di-ets of lactating dairy goats

2024-12-12T18:24:20+00:00

Objective: To determine the productive performance and milk quality of goats, including two levels of popped amaranth in their diet.

Methodology: Forty-five lactating goats, randomly distributed into three groups of 15, were studied. Each group was allocated a treatment that matched the isoenergetic and isoproteic diets with increasing percentages of popped amaranth grain, in replacement of soybean meal: T1, 0%; T2, 20%; and T3, 30%. Data were collected across three intervals during the 45-day experimental period. Milk production was recorded, along with its crude protein (CP), fat, and total solids (TS) content.

Results: Milk production differed significantly (p<0.05) between treatments, increasing as the amount of amaranth in the diet increased, with values of 1.35, 1.38, and 1.65 kg d⁻¹ for T1, T2, and T3, respectively. Milk composition did not record any difference between treatments, with averages of 28.07, 32.89, and 113.7 g kg⁻¹ of milk for crude protein (CP), fat, and total solids (TS), respectively.

Study Limitations/Implications: Given the exploratory nature of this study, determining the functional components of milk is required to complement the study.

Conclusions: Amaranth grain can be used as a protein source in animal feed. Including 30% of amaranth in the diet of dairy goats has been proven to increase production compared to conventional protein sources. However, no changes were observed in the main milk components.

Farmers' Response to Disasters: A Study in Three Municipalities of the Sierra Nevada of Puebla

2024-12-12T18:25:59+00:00

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the types of disasters affecting family agriculture and to understand the strategies implemented by producers to mitigate damage to crops and the economic well-being of farming families in three municipalities of the Sierra Nevada region in Puebla.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The information used in this research was derived from secondary sources and key informants from the municipalities of Calpan, Domingo Arenas, and San Nicolás de los Ranchos in Puebla.

Results: The Sierra Nevada region is characterized by family-based subsistence agriculture, practiced on smallholdings. In response to the frequent climatic disasters that occur throughout the year—such as frost, hail, drought, strong winds, and excessive rainfall—local farmers have developed various strategies. One such strategy is the introduction of new crops, such as berries and grapes, which are better adapted to the changing environmental conditions. These crops are easier to manage and have shown strong market demand, providing farmers with a viable alternative to traditional crops.

Study Limitations/Implications: Some key informants declined to provide information.

Findings/Conclusions:
Family-based agriculture is highly vulnerable to a range of disasters with varying intensities, which negatively impact the living conditions of rural populations, especially those living in poverty. In response, rural communities have developed strategies to mitigate the effects of these disasters and adapt to the changing environmental conditions.

Biosecurity in livestock farming: strategic use of lime by-products to prevent infectious diseases and improve animal health

2024-12-12T18:28:52+00:00

Objective: To provide an expanded understanding of lime and its strategic uses, promote best-use practices, and reduce problems associated with livestock diseases. These measures will strengthen biosecurity in the livestock sector and protect public health.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A systematic review was carried out to update essential knowledge for everyone interested in the livestock sector, strengthening biosecurity in livestock farms and safeguarding public health.

Results: Lime and its by-products are some of the most widely used disinfectants to prevent and control infectious livestock diseases. As one of their action mechanisms, lime-based disinfectants can affect vital components of bacterial cells, reducing the risk of antimicrobial resistance.

Study Limitations/Implications: Applying different disinfectants depends on environmental factors and animal and human safety considerations.

Findings/Conclusions: Applying biosecurity measures throughout the production chain reduces the risk of introducing and spreading new pathogens on livestock farms. Meanwhile, the affordability of lime and its by-products facilitates disinfection and carcass management in facilities. Lime slurry and lime water are useful as remarkable facilitators of carcass decomposition and space disinfection.

Date estimation for the control of avocado (Persea americana Mill.) anthracnose (Colletotrichum sp.)

2024-12-12T21:43:27+00:00

Objective: To generate a program that estimates the dates or times for the control of avocado anthracnose, based on the meteorological conditions required for the infection, establishment, and development process.

Design/Methodology/Approach: An Excel program was developed to estimate temperature (T), relative humidity (RH), dew point (PR), leaf wetness (LW), and probability of precipitation (PoP) and to evaluate, on an hour-per-hour basis, the fulfillment of the climate thresholds required for the establishment and development of Colletotrichum sp. The maximum and minimum daily temperature must be determined with an 80% probability of occurrence and the probability of precipitation. This information was obtained from the daily records of the CONAGUA (National Water Commission) weather stations for three avocado-producing municipalities in Puebla during a 16-year period (2007-2022).

Results: The resulting program estimates the meteorological variables for the following ten days. The conditions in January were not optimal for the onset and development of avocado anthracnose in the three municipalities of Puebla taken as a case study. On the contrary, June had optimal temperature and relative humidity, as well as a higher probability of precipitation.

Study Limitations/Implications: Accurate data on the meteorological conditions of the orchards under study are required to increase efficiency.

Findings/Conclusions: The program will help producers to determine application dates, developing a more user-friendly and efficient management proposal for controlling avocado anthracnose.

Physico-chemical properties of the soil and effect of chemical fertilizers on the nutritional quality of ayocote runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus L.)

2024-12-12T21:44:49+00:00

Ayocote runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus L.) is a pulse native to the temperate areas of Mexico. A high bean yield can be obtained through the proper combination of variety, environment, and agronomical practices.

Objective: To determine the physico-chemical properties of the soil, as well as the effect of six chemical fertilizer formulas applied in the field on the soluble carbohydrate and protein content of ayocote runner beans in three municipalities of Puebla.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Twenty representative pods were collected per site where each fertilizer formula was applied. One-hundred seeds were ground to quantify in triplicate the soluble carbohydrate and protein content. Soil samples were subjected to a granulometry process prior to their chemical analysis. The ANOVA and mean test procedures of the SAS software were used for the statistical analysis of the information.

Results: Ayocote runner bean samples recorded the best physical and nutritional properties in Calpan, where the soil had remarkable physical and bio-chemical properties at a depth of 20-40 cm. The best nutritional characteristics in seeds were recorded with the 80-60 N-P kg per hectare formula.

Study Limitations/Implications: More sites should be studied to assess with greater accuracy the environmental effect.

Findings/Conclusions: Evaluation environments recorded variations in soil texture and the nutrient and organic matter content required for plant nutrition. Fertilizer formulas with high N and P contents favor the protein and soluble carbohydrate content, consequently improving the nutritional quality of the seeds.

Effect of antifreeze action products used to prevent frost damage during the vegetative and reproductive stages of common bean

2024-12-12T21:45:45+00:00

Objective: To establish the frost damage to the stem and root nodules and protection degree of products with antifreeze potential, during the V2, V3, R6, and R7 phenological stages of bean.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Black beans with a type II indeterminate bushy habit were collected. Antifreeze (An), amino acids (Am), gibberellins (Gib) and their combinations were applied at 48-hour intervals. Subsequently, the plants were subjected to frost (0 °C) in a freezer for 1.5 h. Damage was evaluated in a 0 to 100% scale. The nodules were stained with 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride salt. Stained nodules were considered undamaged and non-stained nodules were considered damaged.

Results: Significant differences were found during the phenological stages and between the antifreeze action product treatments. Stage V3 was the most tolerant to frost, while stages R6 and R7 were the most susceptible. The number of undamaged and damaged nodules showed highly significant differences (p≤0.01) between phenological stages and between treatments, as well as in the total number of nodules. An and Ve+An recorded good effects, followed by Ve+Am. Gib was the least efficient product during the four stages.

Study Limitations/Implications: The increase of substances with antifreeze effect in different doses should be tested.

Findings/Conclusions: Frost caused different levels of damage in each phenological stage. V3 stood out as the most tolerant stage. All the products recorded different protection degrees during the phenological stages. Ve+An, An, and Ve+Am recorded the highest antifreeze action.

Social reproduction strategies and climate change in communal lands in the Sierra Nevada of Puebla, Mexico

2024-12-12T21:46:51+00:00

Objectives: To understand the socio-demographics of ejido communities in the Sierra Nevada region of Puebla, Mexico, their social reproduction strategies within domestic units, their perception of climate change and its impact, and their interest in training on the subject.

Methodology: A questionnaire was administered to a probabilistic sample of 334 ejidatarios from ten ejidos in the municipalities of Calpan, Chiautzingo, San Nicolás de los Ranchos, and San Salvador El Verde; 16.2% of the ejidatarios in the sample were women and 83.8% were men.

Results: Of the 334 ejidatarios in the sample, 70% were between 46 and 75 years old and 97% declared they knew how to read and write. Their social reproduction strategies are agriculture (55.7%), selling labor force (23.7%), housewifery (9.3%), commerce (4.5%), and other activities (6.8%). Such diversification is associated with the impacts of climate change on agricultural production. In terms of land, 71% is owned by the ejidatarios, themselves, with 65% having a working area of 1-2 ha. A percentage as high as 89.8% of ejidatarios have heard about climate change, with 93.4% indicating personal and domestic unit affectations; 99.4% identified climate transformations, and 88.6% declared interest in training on the subject.

Study implications: Participants in the study showed motivation to learn about five thematic axes of climate change, fostering a commitment to continue producing collaborative knowledge and designing strategies to enhance the adaptation strategies of ejidos in the region.

Conclusions: There was consensus among participants on the perception of climate change and its effects. Climate change requires them to strengthen and develop adaptation strategies applicable to reproduction strategies. To do so, they need access to training and participation in the production of collaborative knowledge on the subject in the region.

Regional hydro-climatic characterization for the efficient use and management of water Study case

2024-12-12T21:47:43+00:00

Objective: To analyze official information to project future groundwater availability and demand scenarios, based on the different consumptive uses of the Alto Atoyac aquifer, in Tlaxcala, Mexico.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The methodology used in this study included a bibliographic and documentary research. Likewise, based on the Penman-Monteith equation, quantitative research was used to calculate and estimate crop irrigation requirements.

Results: The results of the availability and demand of groundwater showed a surplus of ≈23.34% in 2020. This percentage will gradually decrease in the following years until it reaches a 24.71% deficit by 2070. Consequently, a groundwater deficit in the Alto Atoyac aquifer will take place throughout the whole period (2020-2070). From 2040 to 2050, this deficit will gradually increase.

Study Limitations/Implications: Measures for a sustainable use, exploitation, and conservation of the aquifer must be urgently implemented, as a regular and frequent measurements of aquifer depletion, through measures of phreatic and dynamic groundwater levels, also regular and frequent measures of groundwater extraction, water conduction through the conveyance and distribution system, and finally amounts of water applied to all crop pattern.

Findings/Conclusions: The integration of the consulted and generated data allowed the development of groundwater availability and demand scenarios in the aquifer. In addition, comparisons between the said scenarios were established and conclusions were drawn. The growing water demand in the region —required to meet the basic needs of the localities and inhabitants and to keep driving the economic activities in the region— would have negative effects on the environment and the inhabitants, due to the overexploitation of the aquifer groundwater.

Current status and socioeconomic importance of capulín (Prunus serotina Ehrh) in the Sierra Nevada of Puebla, Mexico

2024-12-12T21:48:38+00:00

Objective: To determine the distribution, survival conditions, and socioeconomic and environmental importance of black cherry or capulín populations in the Sierra Nevada of Puebla, Mexico.

Methodology: Ethnographic and qualitative methods were used to estimate and describe capulín populations in transects, backyards, and orchards. Twenty-six informal interviews were conducted across 10 circuits covering 32 sites in the Sierra Nevada region.

Results: In three circuits, more than 3,600 trees were found to be well-managed. In the remaining circuits, there were between 16 and 74 neglected adult specimens.

Study limitations/implications: The cultivators’ assessments of capulín populations differ from technical methods.

Findings/Conclusions: Capulín populations are concentrated in three circuits where they hold notable socioeconomic and environmental importance.

Agriculture and non-agricultural activities in the income strategies of family farming

2024-12-12T21:59:07+00:00

Objective: To identify agricultural and non-agricultural income strategies of family farming in the Puebla Valley.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A case study was conducted in the community of Tlaltenango, with family farming as the unit of study. A qualitative and quantitative approach was used, involving semi-structured interviews with farmers and an opinion-based survey of 72 family farming units. The resulting data were processed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS v.23). A typology of family farming was determined based on the data, considering the percentage of agricultural and livestock income as a classification criterion to identify income strategies.

Results: Two categories of family farming were identified as income strategies. The first category includes 41.7% of family units, with an average agricultural income of 34%. The second category encompasses 58.3% of family units, where agricultural income accounts for 70.3%.

Study Limitations/Implications: Since this research is a case study, the results and conclusions are framed within a regional context, distinguishing themselves from the agricultural dynamics of other areas and regions.

Findings/Conclusions: The persistence and importance of agriculture and livestock as the main source of income in family farming is a significant proof, challenging the notion of the technical and economic unviability of small-scale production.

Pests and diseases in coffee (Coffea arabica L.) production in two municipalities of the State of Puebla

2024-12-13T18:40:12+00:00

Objective: To analyze the presence and impact of pests and diseases on coffee production in two indigenous communities in the state of Puebla.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Information was collected through interviews with 57 growers in Huehuetla and 52 in Cuetzalan.

Results: The coffee area sown in the region is made up of very small minifundios (very small plots, not big enough to produce profits), which reflects the challenging living conditions of coffee farming families. A statistically significant difference in yield was recorded between municipalities (t=2.348; p=0.021). The coffee varieties grown in the region include: Typica, Caturra, Mundo Novo, Garnica, and Bourbon. Pests and diseases were found in the plots of the farmers. The most prevalent pests and diseases were the coffee berry borer and the coffee leaf rust, found in 57 and 42.9% of the farms. In the case of coffee leaf rust, statistically significant differences were recorded (χ²=3.906; p=0.048) between the two municipalities, with a higher prevalence in Cuetzalan (53.1%) than in Huehuetla (33.9%). Additional pests and diseases were identified, including American leaf spot (24.8%), pellicularia koleroga (7.9%), cercospora leaf spot (6.9%), coffee white stem borer (6.1%), root rot (6%), and coffee leaf miner (3%). Chemical treatments are used to control most of these pests and diseases.

Study Limitations/Implications: The detection of pests and diseases depended on the perception of the grower.

Findings/Conclusions: Coffee growers in these municipalities are among the poorest of the region. Furthermore, their crops are impacted by pests and diseases, which increase their already challenging living conditions.

Agronomic and morphological evaluation of six genotypes and two hybrids of Poblano peppers in field conditions

2024-05-08T15:17:09+00:00

Objective: to evaluate agronomic and morphological traits of six Poblano-type pepper genotypes, compared to a commercial hybrid and an experimental hybrid, in order to select genotypes with potential to continue with a plant breeding program.

Design/ Methodology/ Approach: treatments and statistical model were arranged in randomized complete blocks, with eight treatments (six F2 genotypes, and two hybrids Carranza (commercial F1) and F402 (experimental F1). Treatments were analyzed with analysis of variance (p ≤ 0.05); then tested with Multiple Mean Comparison (Tukey, p ≤ 0.05) and Pearson Correlation Analysis.

Results: no statistical differences were found in yield per plant (RPP), number of fruits per plant (NFP), average weight per fruit (PPF), plant height (AP), stem thickness (GT), leaf length (AL) and leaf width (AH). Regarding width at the base of the fruit (ABF) the hybrids were superior; in average width of the fruit the genotypes G4, G6 and the hybrids were better; in fruit length G2, G5 and G6 stood out; in calyx depth G1, G3 and G4; in length of the peduncle G4 was different from the others; and in thickness of the mesocarp (GM) the genotypes G2, G4, G6 and hybrids were superior. According to Pearson's correlation, the yield depended on NFP (0.66), MG (0.46), ABF (0.38), as it is shown by their coefficients.

Limitations/ Implications of the study: F₁ hybrids do include market features preferred by consumers and producers, since those hybrids were created to favor those traits; for this reason, those hybrids were compared to second generation (F₂) genotypes obtained by directed manual pollination.

Findings/ Conclusions: The evaluated G2, G4 and G6 second generation (F₂) genotypes are highlighted for their agronomic potential compared even to the tested hybrids. So, their genetic potential is inferred, and could be useful to continue selecting them within a plant breeding program.

Effect of the Application Timing of VIUSID Agro® on the Growth of Coffea arabica L. Seedlings

2024-05-23T19:14:04+00:00

Objective: VIUSDI Agro® is a biostimulant that contains amino acids, vitamins and minerals. In Cuba, its
beneficial effects have been primarily demonstrated in vegetables, sugarcane and tobacco. However, there is
limited information regarding its use in coffee. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of
application timing on the growth of coffee seedlings.
Design/methodology/approach: The experiments were conducted at nursery of the Agro-Forest Research
Institute in Tercer Frente, from December 2019 to July 2020 and from October 2020 to June 2021, under
saran mesh shade. Using a completely randomized design, four treatments were evaluated: without VIUSID
Agro® (Control); monthly applications from the second to the fifth leaf pairs; application on the second, fourth
and sixth leaf pairs; and applications on the third and fifth leaf pairs. Height, stem diameter, dry mass, leaf
area, seedlings quality index, as well as agronomic efficiency were assessed. Data were analyzed using a oneway
analysis of variance, and Tukey test was applied to compare the means.
Results: The coffee seedlings responded positively and significantly to the biostimulant. The applications
enhanced the morphological variables and improved the application efficiency.
Findings/conclusions: Foliar applications of VIUSID Agro® on the third and fifth pair of leaves were the
most efficient, reducing the production costs of coffee plants.

Areas with agroecological potential for Agave cupreata (Trel. & Berger) plantations in Guerrero, Mexico

2024-06-04T02:51:24+00:00

Objective: to determine areas with agroecological potential for Agave cupreata (Trel. & Berger) plantations in the state of Guerrero, Mexico.

Design/ Methodology/ Approach: fifty-four specimens of A. cupreata were characterized. For each specimen, phenotypical, agroclimatic and agroecological data were recorded. Information from 123 herbarium specimens and information available in the literature were consulted. In addition, representatives of the State Council of Mezcal in Guerrero and other companies were interviewed, in order to identify possible areas excluded in the field. As well as in the specimens reviewed at the herbarium, which were validated with field observations. This information was processed in ArcGIS^© version 10.3.1 (Esri Inc., 1999-2015, United States), with which a geographic information system was built and the distribution map was obtained, as well as the soil and climate and agroecological requirements of A. cupreata in the state of Guerrero. This information allowed the delimitation of the optimal, suboptimal and marginal areas for establishing agave plants. The validation of the information was made through field trips to specific areas to validate the agroecological variables of the potential areas defined in this study.

Results: areas comprising 673 084.16 ha with optimal agroecological potential, and 1 942 072.86 ha with suboptimal potential were determined.

Limitations/ Implications of the study: it is suggested to complement with studies on productivity, population ecology, intra- and inter population genetic variability, in plantations and natural population (called in Mexico ‘magueyeras’) of A. cupreata.

Findings/ Conclusions: in the state of Guerrero (Mexico), North, Central and Mountain regions were those with the highest number of optimal areas, which coincides with the areas where mezcal (a strong and dry alcoholic beverage distilled from the sap of Agave plants) production is concentrated.

Inclusion of Hydroponic Green Forage in Rabbit Feeding

2024-06-10T20:39:41+00:00

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the inclusion level of hydroponic corn green forage (HCGF) in rabbit diets and its effect on growth and carcass conformation characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach: Five inclusion treatments were established, in the daily diet of Tepexpan® brand commercial balanced feed (CBF) and hydroponic corn green forage (HCGF), in the following proportions (CBF:HGCF): T1:100:00, T2: 75:25, T3:50:50, T4: 25:75, and T5: 00:100. The HCGF was harvested and used 10 days after planting. The treatments were evaluated in 45 weaned rabbits, in a completely randomized design for 30 days. The productive performance variables were daily weight gain, live weight, carcass weight and carcass yield. Additionally, measurements of digestive tract organs were recorded.

Results: Higher productive performance and better carcass conformation were found in the rabbits from T1, fed with concentrate, followed by T2 and T3 in a 75:25 and 50:50 ratios, repectively. Rabbits in T3 exhibited lower productive performance during growth and carcass yield.

Limitations on study/implications: Further research is recommended on the the inclusion of HCGF at levels below 50% in rabbit diets.

Findings/conclusions: The inclusion of hydroponic corn green forage at levels of 25 to 50% maintains the productive performance of rabbits, while higher inclusion levels negatively impact feeding efficiency.

Detection of Bruggmanniella perseae in Hass avocado (Persea americana cv. Hass) in Morelos, Mexico

2024-09-24T17:43:00+00:00

Objective: to determine the presence of Bruggmanniella perseae in commercial Hass avocado orchards in Tetela
del Volcán, Morelos (Mexico).
Design/Methodology/Approach: sampling was carried out in three Hass avocado orchards during October-
December 2020. Adults of B. perseae were collected by direct collections of small fruits in the form of a spinning
top, with symptoms of B. perseae infestation inside. The adults thus collected were observed under a stereo
microscope and a scanning electron microscope to confirm their identity.
Results: adult specimens of B. perseae were captured and analyzed in the laboratory and their presence at the
sampling site was confirmed. Avocado fruits with typical symptoms of avocado ovary fly larva infestation were
collected. If not controlled at the beginning of fruit tying, it can be a threat to avocado production (yield) in the
region. These results are the basis for generating knowledge about this pest, regarding its biology, distribution
and control methods.
Results: adult specimens of B. perseae were captured and analyzed in the laboratory and their presence at the
sampling site was confirmed. Avocado fruits with typical symptoms of avocado ovary fly larva infestation were
collected. If not controlled at the start of the fruiting larvae can be a threat to avocado production (yield) in the
region. These results are the basis for generating knowledge about biology, distribution and control methods
for this pest.
Limitations/Implications of the study: capturing adults of B. perseae in the field is difficult, requiring the use
of sticky colored traps, or other effective alternatives.
Findings/Conclusions: the presence of B. perseae was confirmed in avocado cv. Hass in Tetela del Volcán,
Morelos. The information generated can help avocado growers implement management measures and reduce
losses from this pest

Identification of the Morphology of Tamarix spp in the Mexicali Valley, Baja California, Mexico

2024-11-11T18:15:56+00:00

Objective: The predominant species of Tamarix spp in the Mexicali Valley is unknown, and due to the scarce information available, this study aims to expand the knowledge of the morphology of Tamarix spp in the Mexicali Valley, Baja California, Mexico.

Design/methodology/approach: For this research, five branches with inflorescences and roots of Tamarix spp trees were collected from four selected locations in the Mexicali Valley. The collection was carried out during the flowering season from March to August, considering branches between 2.50 and 3.50 cm in height. The morphological descriptions were based on fresh plants using an Olympia optical microscope.

Results: After the morphological analysis was carried out at the different sampling sites, the predominant salt cedar genotype found in the Mexicali Valley corresponded to Tamarix chinensis. In addition, it was found high electrical conductivity measured in the upper soil layer (20 cm depth) was found to be caused by the excretion of salts through the glands of the leaves of this species. Consequently, salt cedar species can inhibit other vegetation types, although it can benefit honey bee production.

Findings/conclusions: Tamarix chinensis was the predominant salt cedar species throughout the sampling sites under the conditions of this study.The high electrical conductivity measured in the upper soil layer (20 cm depth) shows that salt cedar species can inhibit the growth of other vegetation types, although it can be beneficial for honey bee production.