A US-based lab is searching for natural enemies of the invasive silverleaf nightshade weed, which can outcompete native plants and poison livestock. The lab aims to use biologically based approach to control the weed's spread in Europe and the US.
Researchers have developed 140 hemlock hybrids that are tolerant to the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA), a devastating insect affecting eastern US forests. The most tolerant species is T. chinensis and its hybrids, which show good vigor and shape, providing a potential solution for saving US natural ecosystems.
USDA researchers are developing constructed soils to build better, less-costly sports fields, raingardens, and lawns on degraded land. The most promising mixture includes quarry byproducts and composted chicken litter, which reduces rain runoff and erosion.
US Department of Agriculture researchers have created strong yet pliable films made from a blend of gelatin from Alaskan pollock skins and polylactic acid. These films may be used in tissue-engineering labs to produce semi-synthetic tissue for bone and cartilage repair, potentially speeding up recovery times.
Field pennycress, a common roadside plant, has shown promising results as a potential source of biofuel due to its high seed yields and ability to thrive in cold weather. The USDA study found that the oil from field pennycress seeds can be converted into biodiesel with cloud and pour points suitable for use in cold climates.
A US Department of Agriculture scientist has identified at least six psyllid species in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, which are suspected to spread citrus greening disease. The psyllids were found on various trees, including torchwood and persimmon, which surround citrus groves.
Cattle fever ticks are transmitted by bovine babesiosis, a deadly disease that affects US cattle. USDA scientists have developed two strategies to control the spread of infestation: a 4-Poster Deer Treatment Bait Station and an injectable time-release treatment containing doramectin.
USDA researcher David Straus found copper sulfate effective in controlling Ich and a fungus on catfish eggs, offering an inexpensive and safe solution for aquaculture. The treatment has potential for widespread use in fish ponds worldwide due to its ease of application and effectiveness.
USDA scientists have developed a first-of-its-kind mathematical model to select optimal temperature and salt concentrations to reduce or eliminate microbial contamination in smoked salmon. The research aims to protect the pleasing flavor and texture of smoked salmon while ensuring food safety.
USDA scientists have developed vaccines to protect farm-raised catfish against key diseases, including Streptococcus iniae and S. agalactiae. The modified live vaccine has been shown to create a lifelong immunity in fish, with previous research breakthroughs benefiting the catfish industry.
The USDA is spotlighting the success of ChoiceBatter, a low-oil-uptake batter made from rice flour, developed through its Agricultural Technology Innovation Partnership program. The product has shown significant economic impact in five states and has enabled CrispTek to commercially develop and sell the rice batter.
USDA researchers are developing new fish feeds with lower levels of fishmeal and fish oil, replacing traditional sources with concentrated plant proteins. The alternative diets show promise in supporting the growing demand for fish as a lean protein source, while promoting sustainability in aquaculture production.
Research by USDA scientists found that winter canola can be used to control weeds, supplement animal feed and produce biodiesel. This has encouraged wheat farmers in Okanogan County to diversify their market options and align with USDA's priority of developing new sources of bioenergy.
Ongoing studies by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) are investigating the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Research has shown that DHA and EPA, two essential fatty acids, can help protect against chronic diseases such as insulin resistance and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
A new study finds that Bt corn provides significant economic benefits to neighboring farmers by reducing pest management costs and improving grain quality. The researchers estimate cumulative economic benefits of nearly $7 billion between 1996-2009, with benefits of over $4 billion for non-Bt corn farmers.
USDA-funded scientists in Hawaii have developed new fish feeds using discarded fish parts that can attract shrimp and boost their growth, similar to studies on Alaskan pollock and cod. Researchers are now refining these practical feeds for nutritional balance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental safety.
A new USDA study shows that less than 25% of non-federal rangelands have significant land degradation, while nearly 50% are affected by invasive non-native grasses and shrubs. The research provides valuable information for conservation efforts and sets a baseline for monitoring western rangeland health.
USDA scientists have identified several black aspergilli species capable of infecting corn and peanuts, producing mycotoxins like ochratoxin. The research supports food safety, highlighting the need to monitor for potential pathogens in crops.
The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture has awarded nearly $3.8 million to develop healthier food products for humanitarian assistance programs. These projects aim to improve the nutritional delivery and functional form of food aid products, particularly for infants and young children at risk for malnutrition.
A recent study conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture found that blueberries can help prevent the growth of atherosclerotic lesions in arteries. The research involved feeding 30 young laboratory mice diets spiked with freeze-dried blueberry powder for 20 weeks, resulting in a significant reduction in lesion size.
A new species of parasitic wasp, Eurytoma erythrinae, has been released in Hawaii to combat the invasive Erythrina gall wasp, which harms endemic wiliwili trees. The parasite's high success rate has led to significant declines in tree damage.
Researchers from USDA's Agricultural Research Service found that subsurface injection of liquid manure can reduce ammonia emissions from dairy farms by 65% compared to surface broadcasting or shallow incorporation. This method limits manure nitrogen losses from volatilization, improving air quality and soil health.
Scientists have successfully cultivated 'ōhelo berries in Hawaii, reducing environmental damage and increasing the fruit's availability for small farms and ornamental purposes. The new cultivar, Kilauea, exhibits improved plant hardiness and vigor, allowing for faster germination and flowering.
The USDA has signed a partnership with TechComm to facilitate agricultural research collaborations between businesses and universities in the Southwestern US. The agreement aims to commercialize USDA-developed technologies, creating new business ventures and job opportunities.
Researchers from the USDA have identified a group of enzymes known as feruloyl esterases that can break down key links between plant cell wall polymers. These enzymes, produced by certain microbes, have been isolated and cloned for use in Escherichia coli to improve biofuel production efficiency.
Research led by Nancy F. Butte and funded by the US Department of Agriculture identifies new genetic biomarkers that may predict type 2 diabetes in children. The study fine-tunes a region on chromosome 13 associated with fasting blood sugar levels, shedding light on predisposition to the disease.
Agricultural Research Service microbiologist Ilenys Pérez-Díaz and her colleagues discovered that certain Lactobacilli species can modify azo dyes into non-mutagenic substances. This finding has potential applications for wastewater treatment, making food-grade bacteria a promising option for cleaning up textile industry dye waste.
The USDA has sequenced the cacao genome, accelerating genetic improvement of the crop to resist pests and diseases, improve yields, and support sustainable agriculture. This achievement will benefit the $17 billion US chocolate industry and millions of small farmers worldwide.
Researchers found that fertilizing soils with biosolids introduces triclosan into the environment, with levels averaging 15.5 milligrams per kilogram in treated biosolids. Biological degradation of triclosans resulted in significant loss after 7-9 months, with up to 96% removal after 16 months.
The USDA has created the first genomic map of the domesticated turkey, which could help breeders develop improved commercial breeds to meet consumer demands. The nearly complete genome map was compiled in under a year and at a fraction of the cost of sequencing chicken and cow genomes.
Afla-Guard, a biological control developed for peanut cultivation, has shown promise in reducing aflatoxin levels on corn crops. In a two-year study, the product demonstrated an overall reduction of 85% in aflatoxin levels compared to control fields.
A team of researchers has developed a product that makes corn-derived plastics more heat-tolerant, allowing them to be used in hot-filling applications. The heat-deflection temperature modifier is fully biodegradable and up to 90% corn-based.
The domestic apple genome sequence has been published, providing valuable information for breeding apples with desirable traits such as disease resistance and flavor. The study confirms that the wild ancestor of the modern domesticated apple is Malus sieversii from southern Kazakhstan.
USDA scientists Jon Bates and Tony Svejcar found that burning cut juniper trees in winter helps protect native perennials from invasive cheatgrass. After 10 years, burned areas showed 1.5-2 times greater herbaceous and perennial grass cover than unburned areas.
A new commercial trap for wasps, hornets and yellowjackets has been developed using attractants created by US Department of Agriculture scientists. The RESCUE! W-H-Y Trap attracts multiple species, including yellowjackets, paper wasps and hornets, and eliminates them through drowning or dehydration.
A new hyperspectral imaging technique allows for rapid detection of Campylobacter in food samples, reducing the time needed for isolation and identification from days to just 24 hours.
A study by USDA researchers suggests that a water-soluble cinnamon extract can improve antioxidant variables and decrease fasting glucose levels in people with prediabetes. The extract showed significant improvements, with a correlation between antioxidant status and blood glucose reductions.
A comprehensive CEAP study reveals troublesome nitrogen and copper levels in a major Chesapeake Bay tributary, primarily sourced from agricultural fertilizers. High copper concentrations were found at lower reaches of the river, posing a threat to aquatic life.
USDA scientists have developed a new genetic tool to express beneficial genes in specific plant tissues, improving disease resistance and reducing side effects. The LP2 gene promoter can direct other introduced genes to target areas where they are needed most.
The USDA is developing a web-based fertilizer forecast tool to predict field runoff occurrence and enhance water quality. The tool uses National Weather Service data to analyze precipitation, soil moisture, and other factors.
Research conducted by the USDA found that low levels of folate are associated with symptoms of dementia and poor brain function, as well as depression in women. The study also identified a protein called holoTC as a potential key to detecting cognitive decline earlier.
Researchers have developed new maps of the Chesapeake Bay's forested wetlands, increasing accuracy by 30% compared to existing maps. The combined data from LiDAR and SAR sensors reveals previously unknown connections between wetlands, drainage ditches, and ponds.
A USDA study uses near infrared light technology to quickly evaluate individual kernels of wheat and barley for resistance to scab disease. This allows breeders to rapidly select for resistant varieties, minimizing yield losses and promoting international food security.
Researchers found that nursing facility residents with normal zinc levels were 50% less likely to develop pneumonia compared to those with low zinc concentrations. Those with adequate zinc levels also had shorter durations of pneumonia and lower mortality rates.
Scientists have isolated an improved variant of yeast Cryptococcus flavescens that tolerates fungicide and is being evaluated as a biocontrol agent. This yeast has shown promise in reducing scab damage by up to 85% when combined with other fungicides.
USDA scientists create a new sustainable potting medium called WholeTree, made from thinned pine trees. The material can replace costly and time-consuming materials like peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
The USDA research found that bee pastures can support the growth of healthy young bees by up to fivefold a year. The pastures feature native California plants such as Chinese houses and lacy phacelia, providing a practical and environmentally friendly way to promote pollinator populations.
A 3-year study found no significant positive effect of soy isoflavones on preventing bone loss in postmenopausal women. However, a moderate dose of 120mg showed a modest benefit when combined with lifestyle factors.
Researchers found that white button mushrooms enhance dendritic cell maturity, improving immune response to disease-causing pathogens. The study suggests that consuming adequate nutrients can support immune system health.
Agricultural Research Service scientists have developed a new genetic map of switchgrass, which is expected to speed up the search for genes that make the perennial plant more viable as a biofuel source. The genetic map divides the switchgrass genome into 18 distinct groups of genes linked together on the same strand of DNA.