Articles tagged with Soil Science
A new study suggests that sustainable irrigation can boost crop productivity to feed 1.4 billion more people, reducing environmental impacts and clearing natural land for agriculture. However, climate change may complicate this calculus, requiring additional research on water management strategies.
Researchers found that the asteroid is similar to 'Ivuna-type carbonaceous chondrites,' which date back to the solar system's beginnings. The samples show signs of having been soaked in water, but the rock itself appears relatively dry, hinting at similar formation conditions between comets and asteroids.
The UN Convention to Combat Desertification's Global Land Outlook 2 report warns that up to 40% of the planet's land is degraded, threatening half of humanity and roughly 1/2 of world GDP. The report offers hundreds of practical ways to restore land and ecosystem health.
The study reveals that carbon storage in soil depends on the spatial distribution of pores, with a higher concentration of carbon found near pores. The researchers used X-ray CT to visualize pore systems and found that microbial activity decreases with increasing distance from the pores.
Researchers at the University of Kansas discovered that microalgae-produced diatoms played a crucial role in preserving ancient spider fossils at Aix-en-Provence. The unique chemical process, similar to industrial vulcanization, stabilized carbon-based exoskeletons and promoted sulfurization, resulting in exceptional fossil preservation.
Researchers found evidence of declining nitrogen availability in various ecosystems, including grasslands and forests, due to multiple environmental changes. The decline is linked to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and reduced plant growth, with implications for the global carbon cycle.
Cambridge University researchers are tackling major environmental challenges in the UK's 'vegetable garden', the Fens, through a £10 million project. The team is working with farmers, landowners, and conservation groups to develop whole system solutions for climate change, extinction, and pollution threats.
The UK has allocated £40 million to support four major research studies tackling key global environmental challenges. The projects will develop solutions for net zero cities, improve biodiversity, help rural communities adapt to climate change, and provide evidence for policy decisions.
The Congo Basin's tropical forest is a unique greenhouse gas emitter, with low nitrous oxide emissions but high methane releases, particularly in swamp forests. Soils play a crucial role in converting nitrous oxide to harmless nitrogen, affecting the forest's overall climate gas balance.
Researchers discovered unexpectedly high concentrations of artificial radionuclides in cryoconite samples from the Blaisen Glacier, linked to Chernobyl and nuclear testing. The presence of organic matter from lemming populations may contribute to higher radioactivity levels.
A new study from the University of Illinois reveals that nearly all soil samples in Chicago contain high levels of lead, with some areas reaching up to 3,000 ppm. The findings highlight the need for further monitoring and mitigation efforts to address environmental justice concerns.
Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism of viral transport by bacterial shuttles traveling along fungal hyphae. This process allows bacteria to benefit from taking viruses on their conquest of new habitats. The study also highlights the potential influence of viruses on nutrient and carbon cycles in soil ecosystems.
Researchers found that intense volcanic activity led to a surge in phosphorus levels, driving ocean oxygen levels down and triggering a severe mass extinction. The study suggests that natural weathering of volcanic material may have been responsible for the sudden cooling events.
Researchers led by NUS found that climate change is increasing fluvial sediment loads in the high mountains of Asia, with implications for hydropower, food, and environmental security. The study reveals that sediment fluxes could more than double by 2050 under an extreme climate change scenario.
A study has identified 20 consistent indicators to support sustainability on U.S. ranches, focusing on ecological, social, and economic aspects. The indicators aim to help ranchers track progress toward sustainability goals and communicate improvements to their operations.
A meta-analysis by the University of Basel found that no-till farming alone does not achieve desired results in sustainable agriculture. Retaining crop residues on fields after harvest prevails over no-till farming in promoting carbon storage, soil protection and increased yields.
A new study has shown how climate change impacts the ecosystems of large lakes by varying their water layers' mixing through seasons. Mixing controls heat, oxygen, nutrients, and pollutants between layers, shaping ecosystems' adaptations.
Researchers can leverage innovative technologies to analyze complex interactions within the plant root microbiome. By combining mesocosms with in-situ sensors and imaging tools, scientists can replicate experiments on spatial and temporal scales.
Professor Doug Hayes has been recognized for his contributions to biocatalysis and biodegradable agricultural plastics. He is a renowned expert in molecular understanding of chemical and biochemical processes at interfaces, particularly involving bioplastics and surfactant-water-oil systems.
A three-year study is investigating the agronomic, economic, and ecological outcomes of organic grain production in Tennessee. The research team will explore tillage and cover crop management for organic corn-soybean-wheat rotations to identify changes that can increase profitability and environmental sustainability.
A study reveals that protected areas worldwide are not reducing anthropogenic pressure on natural habitats, with chronic underfunding and local community disengagement identified as key factors. Satellite data analysis found increases in human encroachment in over 90% of global regions, particularly in the tropics.
The UTIA/Blühen Hemp Agronomic Research Program will provide much-needed research data to enhance the success of hemp farmers in Tennessee. The four-year program aims to support agronomic practices and improve crop yields.
Researchers at West Virginia University have discovered a fungus that infects cicadas, causing them to lose their limbs and engage in abnormal behavior. The fungus contains psychoactive compounds similar to those found in hallucinogenic mushrooms, but further research is needed to determine its potential benefits.
Studies show that both temperature and glyphosate increase dicamba volatility, leading to increased off-target movement and damage to crops. Researchers recommend avoiding mixing glyphosate with low-volatile dicamba formulations, such as XtendiMax, to minimize the risk of injury to non-dicamba-tolerant plants.
A global team of researchers proposes a new approach to managing weeds by considering their impact on society as a whole. The team suggests that traditional methods focus too much on individual landowners and instead recommends a cross-boundary approach that prioritizes shared goals and collective interests.
Geographers from FAU investigate ancient dust deposits to draw conclusions about settlement structures, crops, landscape changes, and climate fluctuations. The study aims to understand the cultural growth and decline of the Southern Levant region between the Iron Age and Byzantine period.
Researchers have discovered a genetic trigger that can increase plant branching, leading to improved crop yields. The newly identified chemical, DL1, has shown promise in both flower and rice plants, paving the way for potential commercial applications in agriculture.
Barry Sims, associate director of UT AgResearch, received the Distinguished Service Award for his contributions to land grant research and administration. He oversees the system's 10 centers and coordinates faculty research at the centers.
Researchers aim to promote sustainable water for agriculture through stakeholder engagement, testing flexible models in Arizona, Nebraska, and Pennsylvania. The project seeks to address complex web of social, economic, cultural, institutional, legal, and biophysical conditions influencing water resource management.
Researchers from Lomonosov Moscow State University discovered that ancient ground squirrels in the Indigirka river basin are closely related to present-day Beringian ground squirrels in Kamchatka. The study revealed that these animals have a complex migration history, with multiple colonization events in Eurasia.
A new study found that international collaboration in scientific research has grown dramatically, with more than doubling of cross-border studies between 1990 and 2015. The fields of soil science and virology saw the highest growth rates, with a 550% increase in collaborating partners in soil science.
Researchers developed an efficient process to rapidly discover new 'enediyne natural products' from soil microbes that could be further developed into extremely potent anticancer drugs. The study highlights microbial natural products as abundant sources of new drug leads, saving time and resources compared to traditional approaches.
Kaspari's research explores the role of sodium in accelerating animal activity and abundance across different ecosystems. He has discovered how chemical elements like phosphorus and nitrogen shape ecological phenomena, from bison herds to termite damage.
MIT scientists developed a technique to interpret Raman spectra, identifying samples with high hydrogen-to-carbon ratios that may preserve ancient microbial life. The new method enables the 2020 Mars rover to select ideal samples for further study, potentially revealing signs of past life on Mars.
A new study explores using colorants to maintain turf color throughout dormant periods. Colorants applied to zoysiagrass at various volumes showed an increase in persistence of green color, with the highest volume providing color for up to 167 days.
Scientists have discovered seven new land snail species in China, including two that are among the world's smallest, measuring less than 1 mm in height. These tiny creatures pose challenges for scientists studying biodiversity and evolution.
Researchers have discovered naturally occurring asbestos in Boulder City, Nevada, posing a risk to local residents. The fibrous minerals were found in areas not previously considered at risk, highlighting the need for further investigation into their occurrence and toxicity.
Researchers evaluated county-level energy and GHG intensity of grain corn, stover, and cob production in Ontario from 2006-2011. The study identified opportunities for efficiency improvements through field-drying corn hybrids, reduced tillage, and diminished nitrogen inputs to reduce GHG emissions.
Journalists Sybille Hildebrandt and Chelsea Wald have been awarded the EGU Science Journalism Fellowship for their projects on palaeontology and soil sciences. They will receive funding to pursue research trips to Canada and Scotland, respectively, in order to investigate key scientific questions.
The presentation highlights the importance of cataloging and conserving crop wild relatives worldwide. Researchers have identified critical taxa in need of protection and conducted inventories of CWRs in the US, revealing nearly 4,600 species, including endangered relatives of sunflower, bean, and sweet potato.
The Crop Science Society of America has selected 7 members for the 2012 class of Fellows, recognizing their professional achievements and meritorious service in crop science. The new fellows include experts from universities, government institutions, and private companies.
The American Society of Agronomy has recognized outstanding professionals with various awards. Jerome H. Cherney, Thomas A. Doerge, and David A. Zuberer were honored for their contributions to agronomic education, industry, and research.
The Australian government has created the world's first continent-wide mineral maps using Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection (ASTER) data. These maps provide highly accurate information on rock and soil mineral components, revolutionizing the search for mineral deposits.
The GPFARM-Range computer model allows ranchers to test various scenarios involving forage yields, weight gains, and stocking rates under different weather conditions. This research supports USDA's priority of promoting agricultural sustainability in the face of climate change.
A new trade name, Sparta – the Soybean Aphid Shield, has been developed by Dechun Wang, which promises healthier harvests for growers and a little green for the university too. The resistant genes were isolated from 2,000 strains of soybeans tested against aphids.
A Brazilian study finds that forestry students' concerns change as they progress through their studies, suggesting ways to improve the curriculum. Later years prioritize competency-related skills and work areas, while first years focus on conservation.
Scientists aim to detect hydrogen in lunar soil, which may be icy leftovers or accumulated from the solar wind. The LCROSS mission will create a debris cloud near the moon's south pole to observe its behavior.
The American Phytopathological Society announced Ewen Callaway as the 2009 APS Plant Pathology Journalism Award winner. His article, 'The Green Menace,' discussed the citrus disease huanglongbing, which has devastated the citrus industry since its arrival in US soil in 2005.
Researchers across the US are calling for a national network of sites like MSU's Long-Term Ecological Research site at Kellogg Biological Station to address agriculture's challenges. A paper in BioScience suggests that a long-term interdisciplinary approach could help address key agricultural issues.
The American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America recognize 36 outstanding undergraduate seniors for their academic achievements, leadership, and participation. The students receive a plaque and become eligible for the Frank D. Keim Fellowship.
The new 'Raider Amethyst' prairie verbena is a water-conserving wildflower bred to provide compact, dependable color in drought-tolerant landscapes. It reduces urban water usage by utilizing potable water-efficient plants like Raider Amethyst.
The USGS Coalition will host a congressional reception to highlight the importance of increased funding for the USGS in the FY 2008 budget. The event aims to promote responsible natural resource stewardship and improve resilience to natural hazards.
A study published in Agronomy Journal suggests that producers can reduce seeding rates for Roundup Ready soybeans without affecting yield, especially in northern Wisconsin. This approach could be economically viable for farmers in certain regions, but current recommendations may still be suitable.
A study found that organic production practices had a slight impact on corn and soybean yields, with reductions of up to 19% compared to conventional methods. The organic strategy also had lower production costs, but net returns were equivalent to the conventional strategy.
A study published in Vadose Zone Journal reveals that temperature measurements can accurately determine the rate of water movement towards the groundwater table. This information can help optimize irrigation practices and ensure the long-term sustainability of ground-water resources in the region.
Scientists found that increasing nitrogen fertilizer levels in corn hybrids boosts Bt toxin production, potentially affecting pest management. The study suggests that early-season nitrogen applications may impact the effectiveness of Bt hybrids in reducing insect damage.
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts have created a switchable adhesive coating that relies on temperature changes to control its stickiness. This technology has potential applications in self-cleaning tennis racquets and golf club grips, improving performance and durability.
Scientists have used seismic reflection profiling to reveal an ancient river valley one mile wide and 250 feet deep beneath Portland, Ore. The study suggests that earthquakes ruptured the surface in the past 15,000 years and that two suspected fault zones are active.