ESA research news: March 31, 2022
A new study reveals that leafcutter ants employ complex strategies to maximize the growth of their fungal
Sustainable Agriculture
Articles tagged with Sustainable Agriculture
New estimation strategy improves soil carbon sampling in agricultural fields
Researchers developed an estimation strategy to maximize accuracy while minimizing cost of soil carbon sampling, leveraging publicly available data. The new approach reduces the number of samples needed by up to 28% compared to random selection.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalGeoderma·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 29, 2022
Better breeding tools for future-proofing potatoes
Researchers from around the world have developed new breeding tools to help potato breeders adapt their crops to a changing climate. The collaboration identified useful traits, such as local adaptability and climate flexibility, in wild varieties of potatoes, which can be used to cut down on the time and cost of developing new cultivars.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalFood and Energy Security·DateMar 29, 2022
Optimizing the Mitigation of Heavy Metal Pollution in Biochar-treated Soils with Machine Learning
Researchers used machine learning to predict the most important factors underlying heavy metal pollution remediation in biochar-treated soils. Biochar nitrogen content and application rate were found to be the most crucial features in determining HM immobilization, with soil properties also playing a significant role.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 29, 2022
Scientists characterize fertilizer uptake by maize in unprecedented detail, opening doors to improved yields
Researchers used single cell RNA-sequencing to identify specific cells and genes in maize roots responsible for nitrate uptake. The study provides valuable insights into optimizing root nutrient uptake ability in crops.
Modulation of calcium signaling to enhance root nodule symbiosis
The John Innes Centre researchers identified the role of the signaling protein CaM2, which regulates calcium channels and shapes calcium signals. This led to accelerated calcium frequency, earlier signaling with bacteria, and enhanced root nodule symbiosis in engineered legume roots.
SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2022
How cattle ranchers in Brazil could help reduce carbon emissions
A new study from the University of Colorado Boulder finds that customized training and technical assistance can help Brazilian cattle ranchers sustainably increase their production while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The program resulted in a significant impact on carbon sequestration and emissions, equivalent to reducing CO2 emis...
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2022
Midwestern US has lost 57.6 billion metric tons of soil due to agricultural practices, study finds
A new study led by UMass Amherst finds that human-caused erosion in the US Midwest has lost nearly double the average sustainable rate, with plowing identified as the major culprit. The team's research estimates that the region has lost approximately 57.6 billion metric tons of topsoil since farming began 160 years ago.
Restoring tropical peatlands supports bird diversity and does not affect livelihoods of oil palm farmers, study suggests
A new study found that re-wetting drained peatlands can support bird diversity and sustainable oil palm farming without affecting yields. The research suggests restoring peatlands can conserve biodiversity and livelihoods for smallholder farmers in Indonesia.
The next frontier for African genomics - safeguarding African biodiversity
The African BioGenome Project aims to sequence the genomes of Africa's endemic plants, animals, fungi, and protists. This will build resilience in breeding, sustainable food systems, and biodiversity conservation, aligning with the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
SourceUniversity of South Africa - Cape Town Campus·JournalNature·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 15, 2022
Heat stress for cattle may cost billions by century’s end
A study published in The Lancet Planetary Health warns that heat stress on cattle could lead to financial losses of $15-40 billion annually by the end of the century. This would particularly affect producers in tropical regions, including South America, Asia, and Africa.
CSU, biotech company partnering on RNA-based method for weed control
Researchers at Colorado State University are developing an RNA-based method for controlling herbicide-resistant weeds using gene-silencing technology. The goal is to create a non-genetically modified, shelf-stable spray that targets specific strands of RNA in weed cells, leaving crops untouched.
Tomatoes of equal quality with less irrigation water
Researchers at the University of Seville conducted a study on deficit irrigation for Sunchocola tomatoes, finding no significant changes in commercial quality but increased carotenoids and phenolic compounds. The results have significant nutritional importance and potential for global irrigation water savings.
We should be eating more insects and using their waste to grow crops, says plant ecologist
Using insect exoskeletons and feces to promote sustainable crops could enhance plant growth, health and resilience. Insect-rearing byproducts may also act as pest control agents.
These solar panels pull in water vapor to grow crops in the desert
Scientists in Saudi Arabia developed a solar-driven system that uses hydrogel to condense water from air while generating electricity. The system successfully grew spinach in a hot climate, producing over 2 liters of water and 1,519 watt-hours of electricity.
Farms following soil-friendly practices grow healthier food, study suggests
A recent study found that farms using regenerative agriculture have healthier crops with higher levels of minerals, vitamins, and phytochemicals. The research suggests that the key lies in the biology of the soil, where microbes and fungi play a crucial role in boosting beneficial compounds.
Risks of using AI to grow our food are substantial and must not be ignored, warn researchers
Researchers warn of substantial risks associated with AI in agriculture, including cyber-attacks and environmental degradation. They suggest involving ecologists in technology design to avoid scenarios like overuse of fertilisers and soil erosion.
Nanocarrier spray: Better crops without genetic modification
Researchers at RIKEN CSRS have developed a non-transgenic method to modify plant genes using a bioactive molecule spray, which can be used to improve crop yield and resistance to pests. The technique has shown promising results in improving economically desirable quality traits in crops.
Growing rice with aquatic animals boosts production and reduces chemical use
A study published in eLife found that growing rice alongside carp, mitten crabs, or softshell turtles increases yields by 8.7-12.1% while reducing nitrogen levels in the soil and weeds. This method also allows for increased profits as farmers can sell both animals and rice.
Pharmaceutical residues in sewage sludge and cattle manure do not have the feared effect
Researchers at University of Copenhagen find that pharmaceutical residues in sewage sludge and cattle manure do not harm soil organisms, despite concerns over environmental risks. Organic fertilizers like sludge and manure provide better soil quality than conventional mineral fertilizers.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalAgronomy for Sustainable Development·DateFeb 16, 2022
Vanilla cultivation in the right place pays off for people and nature
A research team from the University of Göttingen found that vanilla agroforestry systems have advantages for both humans and nature, particularly when planted on fallow land. However, price fluctuations pose a challenge to sustainable cultivation.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2022
A new, sustainable way to make hydrogen for fuel cells and fertilizers
A new method to produce hydrogen from water has been discovered, using cobalt and manganese as catalysts. This breakthrough could lead to a cleaner and more sustainable hydrogen economy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Oregon State researchers makes key advance in turning apple waste into packaging material
Researchers have created an environmentally friendly packaging material from apple waste, offering a potential alternative to plastic. The new material is made from apple pomace and has improved water resistance thanks to the incorporation of polymers and compounds.
Researchers make non-alcoholic beer taste like regular beer
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have developed a method to produce non-alcoholic beer that tastes like regular beer, improving its flavor and sustainability. The technique involves using micro-factories of yeast cells to release hop aroma molecules, eliminating the need for expensive aroma hops.
How to improve crop management in organic horticulture
A study reveals that the roller crimper technique improves agroecological crop performance, reduces environmental impact, and protects biodiversity. The technique creates a layer of plant waste on the crop surface without perturbing the soil.
SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022
Leicester computational modelling experts pioneer pest-busting model
Mathematicians at the University of Leicester have developed a new mathematical model that could greatly increase the efficiency of pest control. The model uses field data and computer simulations to predict the distribution of slugs in arable fields, accounting for individual creature movements.
SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 10, 2022
New research offers insight into emerging tomato virus – and advice about a popular resistance
A recent study revealed that current tomato cultivars are vulnerable to the emerging ToBRFV, a damaging virus affecting tomatoes and other crops. The research also developed a molecular detection tool to identify infectious virus particles carried on contaminated seeds.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022
Advanced solutions for agriculture: strategies for the Near East and North Africa facing climate change
The study analyzes the costs and effectiveness of climate change adaptation measures in agriculture, highlighting integration of different techniques as a key factor. Climate smart agriculture and conservation agriculture can provide benefits in terms of both adaptation and mitigation of climate change.
SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalClimate Policy·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 10, 2022
European diets need to change to reduce climate impact
A new study finds that European diets must change to reduce climate impact, with feeding livestock low-opportunity-cost biomass offering a 31% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The EAT-Lancet diet, which recommends reducing animal-source foods like red meat, is at odds with circular food systems that prioritize land use efficiency.
Genetic engineering can have a positive effect on the climate
A new study suggests that widespread use of genetically modified crops in the EU could prevent the release of 33 million tons of CO2 equivalents, equivalent to 7.5% of annual greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. This is mainly due to reduced land-use change and preservation of the Amazon rainforest.
COP26 deal sparks hope for positive tipping points
Researchers say a new framework can help trigger positive tipping points to tackle the climate crisis, including the growth of plant-based diets and regenerative farming methods. The Breakthrough Agenda at COP26 signals a shift in thinking, aiming to tip economic sectors into a green state.
Root symbiosis is regulated through nutrient status of plants
Researchers discovered a protein called PHR regulates arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) symbiosis based on phosphate availability. AM promotes phosphate uptake and other nutrient absorption, enhancing plant resistance to stressors.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2022
Illinois research reveals cadmium's route into chocolate
Researchers found that soil pH and total cadmium are key factors controlling cadmium uptake in cacao beans. Liming soils can increase yield while reducing cadmium content, but access to lime may be limited for smallholder farmers.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 2, 2022
Study of ants suggests a need for better biodiversity conservation across agricultural land in the tropics
A new study found that degradation due to swidden agriculture leads to reduced native ant species diversity and increased introduced ant species diversity. Closed canopy forests, however, had the highest ant species diversity and were compositionally unique.
Plant pathologists collaborate to share knowledge on a growing threat to corn production
A group of plant pathologists have compiled a recovery plan to mitigate tar spot's impact on corn production. The plan reviews current knowledge and future needs, enabling the dissemination of best management practices across state lines.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Health Progress·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2022
Water as a precious commodity: Competition for natural resources prevents sustainable development and excludes entire communities from water resources
A study by Politecnico di Milano reveals that large-scale land acquisitions for agriculture lead to increased water scarcity, impacting local users. The research analyzed 160 acquisitions and found that 105 resulted in competition for water, often at the expense of local communities.
SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 26, 2022
Study shows urban Britain’s potential as a ‘grow your own’ nation
Britain's urban areas have sufficient green space to support a large-scale 'grow your own' movement, meeting dietary needs and reducing reliance on imports. The study estimates that converted urban spaces could produce up to eight times the current UK fruit and vegetable output.
SourceLancaster University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 24, 2022
Powerful sensors on planes detect crop nitrogen with high accuracy
Researchers from the University of Illinois developed a system using hyperspectral sensors on planes to quickly and accurately detect nitrogen status in corn crops. The technology achieved up to 85% accuracy and has potential for use in satellites, enabling farmers to make informed decisions about nitrogen side-dressing.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation·DateJan 13, 2022
New £10m centre to explore links between organisms and their microbiomes
The £10m Leverhulme Centre for the Holobiont aims to map associations between microbes and higher organisms to understand how they support each other. This knowledge can help manipulate the relationship to save species from extinction, grow crops more efficiently and restore habitats.
On-Farm Experimentation: a global movement to accelerate the transformation of agriculture
Over 30,000 farms worldwide participate in On-Farm Experimentation (OFE), fostering locally-relevant knowledge and innovation. OFE's six guiding principles prioritize pragmatic collaboration between farmers, researchers, and industry partners to create directly applicable knowledge.
SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalNature Food·DateDec 23, 2021
Using videos and farmer-to-farmer learning to make agriculture more sustainable
A study by Göttingen University found that training methods combining farmer-to-farmer learning with educational videos significantly increased the use of productive practices among smallholder farmers in Ethiopia. This approach also promoted informal information transfer and improved adoption of complex technologies.
Arriving in mainland Malaysia, banana Blood disease now poised to spread throughout Southeast Asia
Banana Blood disease has arrived in mainland Malaysia, spreading rapidly across the country and potentially threatening food security. The disease, first reported in Indonesia in 1905, has already devastated banana plantations in many parts of Southeast Asia.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021
University of Helsinki to lead FOODNUTRI, a national research infrastructure for climate-smart food research
The University of Helsinki is leading a three-year €3.5 million funded project FOODNUTRI to promote digitalisation and green transition in Finland's food system. The project will develop innovative solutions for sustainable food production, processing, and consumption.
Seed microorganisms override soil microorganisms when colonizing plants
Researchers found that seed microorganisms have more staying power than soil microorganisms when colonizing plants. The study suggests that modifying the seed microbiome could lead to more sustainable agriculture and increased crop yields and quality.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021
Healthier tapioca starch is on the way
Researchers at RIKEN have developed a healthier form of tapioca starch by suppressing multiple genes that increase its resistance to digestion. The resulting starch is composed of longer chains with fewer branches, making it harder to digest and potentially improving intestinal function and blood sugar control.
Study clarifies nitrogen’s impact on soil carbon sequestration
The study found that nitrogen fertilizer accelerated residue decomposition, producing more carbon dioxide and reducing the incorporation of residues into soil organic matter. This long-term problem can cause microbes to attack stable organic matter, leading to a decline in soil health.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNitrogen·DateDec 15, 2021
Benefits of cacao farms for birds and bats
Research found that cacao agroforestry systems support unique bird species in tropical dry forests, while bats are more abundant in these areas than in nearby forests. This suggests that cacao farms can serve as biodiversity-friendly oases, providing food and refuge for birds and bats.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalAgriculture Ecosystems & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2021
Citrus greening disease can infect an entire tree weeks before symptoms appear
Scientists have measured the speed of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, a bacterium causing citrus greening disease. The bacteria can colonize a tree in around 80-100 days, faster than symptoms appear, making it difficult to control.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytopathology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021
City allotments match farming productivity per square metre
A citizen science project found urban growers in Brighton and Hove harvested 1kg of insect-pollinated fruit and vegetables per metre squared, comparable to conventional farming. Urban farming benefits biodiversity and human health while offering sustainable and productive alternatives.
Finding new channels to selectively target pest insects
Scientists have discovered new targets for insecticides by analyzing the structure of potassium channels in Drosophila. The study provides a detailed map of the channel, enabling the design of highly selective and safe insecticides.
SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021
Leveraging machine learning to rapidly discover novel beneficial microbes
A recent study uses machine learning to rapidly discover bacterial isolates with antifungal properties, identifying promising new compounds for crop protection. The approach analyzes thousands of microbial genomes at once, allowing researchers to identify novel beneficial microbes and bypass traditional screening tactics.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021
$19 million research project seeks to understand how management impacts soil health, farmer well-being
A $19 million research project will investigate the connection between grazing management decisions and soil health, aiming to improve soil resilience and productivity. The project, led by Noble Research Institute, will provide farmers and ranchers with tools to measure outcomes of soil health in grazing land environments.
Danforth Center scientists develop an unprecedented three-dimensional X-ray microscope methodology to image plants at cellular resolution
Plant scientists can now image above and below-ground structures with unprecedented clarity, revealing new insights into biological processes. The development of three-dimensional X-ray microscopy enables the observation of microscopic molecular and cellular processes driving plant phenotypes.
Giving ugly food a chance
Researchers found that consumers are willing to pay a small discount for imperfect carrots, maxing out at 40% of misshapen carrots. Marketing messages promoting the nutritional quality and societal benefits of ugly produce were more effective in convincing consumers to buy.
WVU research promotes healthier poultry and environment
Researchers at West Virginia University have developed a wood boiler system that improves bird health and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by drying litter and creating dry heat. The system has the potential to replace propane heating systems in poultry farms, benefiting both animal welfare and the environment.
Biopesticides can be used to degrade aflatoxin in crops
Researchers have discovered that certain strains of Aspergillus can be used to degrade aflatoxins in crops, reducing the risk of food contamination. This biological control method utilizing biocontrol products is currently the most effective way to produce safe and healthy foods and feeds.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2021
Pathway for ‘green ammonia’ opens in a combined experimental and computational study
A combined experimental and computational study published in Nature Catalysis introduces a new class of complex metal hydride catalysts that can synthesise ammonia at temperatures as low as 300°C and pressures as low as 1 bar. These catalysts have the potential to pave the way for more sustainable means of ammonia production.
SMART researchers develop method for early detection of bacterial infection in crops
Researchers from SMART and TLL have developed a rapid Raman spectroscopy-based method to detect and quantify early bacterial infection in crops. This method enables non-invasive early diagnosis, which is crucial for plant disease management and agricultural productivity.
SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateNov 18, 2021
Woodland and hedgerow creation can play crucial role in action to reverse declines in pollinators
A major new study found that woodland and hedgerow creation can support higher numbers of pollinators, including bees, hoverflies, and butterflies. The survey, which covered hundreds of sites across Wales, revealed the importance of carefully managed habitats in land management incentive schemes.
SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 16, 2021
CyborGoats find their way into Norwegian villages
Researchers found that digital fencing technology makes goat farming easier by eliminating the need for physical fences. The system also enables farmers to monitor their goats' movements and prevent animal welfare concerns.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Rural Studies·TypeObservational study·DateNov 11, 2021