Articles tagged with Crop Production
Researchers at Colorado State University have identified four Fusarium species causing potato dry rot in the San Luis Valley, including one not previously found in the US. This study will help improve disease diagnosis and monitoring, as well as guide cultivar selection and breeding for disease resistance.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that beneficial nematodes, including predatory nematodes, play a crucial role in regulating pest populations in tropical soils. The research shows that these natural allies can suppress harmful plant-parasitic nematodes, leading to improved crop yields and reduced losses.
Researchers at Colorado State University have found a way to boost plant growth while maintaining its immune system through hormone treatment, showing promise for increasing food production. The approach involves genetically manipulating phytohormone interactions to restore cell division and increase disease resistance.
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology discovered that parasitic plants recognize
Researchers developed a non-invasive OCT scanner to measure environmental stress in plants. The device reveals internal structural changes caused by ozone exposure, enabling early detection of deficiencies or stress-induced changes.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory use CRISPR to edit the goldenberry plant, reducing its growth by 35% and making it suitable for denser farming. The team hopes to breed plants with desirable traits such as fruit size and disease resistance.
The Philippines faces a widening rice gap due to stagnant farms, with national output remaining largely unchanged since 2017. Regionally tailored strategies are needed to boost production and reduce dependence on imported grain.
A team of researchers from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture identified the base, optimal and maximum temperature ranges for eight commonly grown cover crop species. The study's findings provide significant guidance for developing accurate plant growth and biomass prediction models.
Researchers have identified Aegilops cylindrica as a powerful genetic reservoir for resistance against the devastating fungal pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici. The study reveals novel mechanisms of immune suppression by the pathogen and offers new insights into plant immunity.
A new climate dataset warns of a sharp drop in crop yields globally, with the poorest nations facing the greatest risks. The dataset projects that every additional degree Celsius of warming will drag down global food production by 4.4%, impacting millions at risk of hunger.
A study warns that Ukraine's soils are losing vital crop nutrients due to reduced fertilizer access and inefficient farming practices. To mitigate this, the authors recommend better farm management, efficient use of fertilizers, and introducing legumes into crop rotations.
Researchers developed a tool to measure food production's impact on species survival, finding that eating beef and lamb has the biggest effect on extinctions. Switching to vegetarian diets could halve biodiversity impact in the UK.
Researchers have discovered that extended periods of high stress in wheat crops can lead to iron deficiency and stunted growth. By reducing iron deficiency with a synthetic organic molecule called PDMA, plants are able to improve photosynthesis and biomass under heat stress conditions.
Researchers measured miscanthus × giganteus net primary productivity in both aboveground and belowground structures. They found that aboveground productivity varied among sites, fertilization rates, and calculation assumptions, with yields ranging from 15.4 to 36.4 Mg DM ha–1 year–1.
The University of Tennessee AgResearch has received a $50-million investment to modernize its West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center. The new facilities, precision agriculture equipment, and laboratory renovations will enhance on-site research and improve data quality.
Researchers at Washington State University found that early planting to avoid heat damage may actually hinder spring wheat productivity due to other growth issues. The study used computer modeling to show that moving crop plantings earlier in the season can expose crops to elevated heat or cold stress in later growth stages.
Researchers have discovered how a compound called naringenin chalcone 'reprograms' a light-sensing protein in plants, activating it to send growth-regulating signals even without UV light. This unexpected interaction could lead to crops with improved tolerance to harsh environments and more efficient use of light energy.
A recent study by Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich shows that extremely dwarf wheat has a less favorable gluten composition than semi-dwarf or tall wild-type wheat. This can lead to poorer baking properties. Environmental conditions also play a significant role in shaping gluten composition.
Researchers are analyzing leaf and soil samples from diverse areas to determine beneficial or harmful roles of different microbes. The study aims to improve crop production practices and overall yield by assessing the health of soil rhizosphere.
Florida Atlantic University's FAU Engineering has received a $827,533 USD grant from the USDA to develop an advanced edge/fog computing-based framework called FogAg. This project aims to revolutionize precision agriculture by enabling real-time sensing and analysis of crop growth and yield.
Researchers are testing how crops grow between rows of solar panels on a farm in New York state. The team is growing various crops, including strawberries, raspberries, and soybeans, with promising early results.
The third edition of Compendium of Cotton Diseases and Pests features significant updates and new content, including expanded focus on entomology and emerging diseases. Hundreds of new images enhance identification and diagnosis, making it a comprehensive guide for plant pathologists, agronomists, and growers.
A $2 million collaboration will use genomics and targeted recombination to create drought-tolerant and disease-resistant tomatoes. This project seeks to improve global food security by leveraging cutting-edge technologies to address environmental stress and pathogens.
Researchers developed a strategy to predict multiple traits at once based on the whole genome, increasing predictive ability by 2-10 times. This method, called multi-trait genomic selection (MT-GS), combines genetic markers with known trait links for more accurate predictions, making it a promising tool for efficient and cost-effective...
Researchers found that increasing tree cover on cocoa farms across Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire to a minimum of 30% could sequester significant amounts of carbon dioxide equivalent, benefiting the environment and ecosystems. Agroforestry has the potential to deliver meaningful mitigation for the chocolate industry.
Researchers found biochar improved soil's ability to hold nutrients and moisture, giving cotton plants better growth conditions. Biochar also helps improve water quality by keeping nitrates in the soil and out of groundwater.
Researchers discovered salicylic acid plays a central role in protecting potato roots from Spongospora subterranea, a soilborne pathogen causing powdery scab. The study used a cutting-edge 'hairy root' system to rapidly test root-pathogen interactions, providing vital insights for developing resistant potato varieties.
A team of scientists proposes an integrated framework combining biotechnology and AI to revolutionize crop breeding, exploring multi-omics, genome editing, and high-throughput phenotyping. The authors present a forward-looking framework for AI-assisted crop germplasm design, offering a roadmap for sustainable agriculture.
Research suggests that nine commonly used pesticides in viticulture have significantly underestimated environmental impact, with half-lives exceeding two days and potential for long-range transport.
Preliminary research suggests that climate change can lead to a reduction in nutritional quality in food crops, with potential devastating consequences for human health. The study found that elevated CO2 levels and hotter temperatures can exacerbate this decline, particularly affecting essential proteins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology have found beneficial microbes in rice roots that can support plant growth and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers. The study reveals an increase in microbial diversity as plants mature, with nitrogen-fixing bacteria enriching the soil.
Agroecological methods improve biodiversity, pollination, natural pest control, and crop yields, but new subsidies are needed to support farms' transition. The study found that incorporating nature-friendly practices increases benefits for nature and farmers, with higher soil carbon and overall increased crop yields.
Researchers found that corn-soy rotation boosts corn yields and reduces nitrogen fertilizer needs, but with trade-offs in soil greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen leaching. The study's results suggest a complex interplay between crop yield, environmental impacts, and economic returns under various rotation scenarios.
High aflatoxin levels in Ghana's maize and peanuts contribute to the country's high liver cancer rates. Experts call for research to quantify the impact of fungal toxins on the disease.
Traditional Asian wheat varieties harbor multiple genes conferring yellow rust resistance, a devastating disease threatening global bread wheat production. These findings highlight the importance of preserving genetic diversity and traditional farming practices to combat diseases and ensure food security.
Gene editing technologies could enable climate-resilient crops, higher yields, and reduced fertilizers and pesticides. Researchers advocate allowing gene editing in organic farming to support the EU's goal of 25% organic agriculture by 2030.
A new digital tool provides free satellite monitoring and analysis of vegetation and crop health across Kansas and the nation. The Sentinel GreenReport Plus combines satellite imagery with climate datasets to provide users with insights into vegetation greenness, changes in land cover over time, and climate abnormalities.
Researchers used drones with advanced cameras to measure how wheat plants cope with climate change, identifying key traits like leaf area index and chlorophyll content. They matched these traits to specific genes in the wheat genome, discovering 16 genetic markers linked to better performance under normal and dry conditions.
The Arkansas Soil Fertility Studies report shows that 81% of producers use lime and fertilizer recommendations to improve soil fertility. The study also found that most producers are satisfied with the free soil testing services provided by the Marianna lab, which accounts for 80-85% of analysis in the state.
A new study from Cornell University suggests that most regenerative farming practices, including cover crops, may actually reduce crop yields in many situations. However, the researchers found that certain combinations of practices can benefit both climate mitigation and crop yields, depending on location.
Researchers at Boyce Thompson Institute developed a new method for transforming maize using leaf whorls, reducing the need for advanced growing facilities. The new technique has been tested on two maize genotypes and shown to be effective in boosting plant resistance.
New York dairy farms achieve low greenhouse gas emissions by producing high-quality crops and managing manure efficiently. The study provides a regional baseline for dairy farm emissions, offering opportunities for farmers to reduce emissions and increase productivity through sustainable practices.
Researchers developed high-resolution risk maps to predict where charcoal rot occurs in soybean fields. The maps use measurable soil characteristics to assess risk across the landscape and identify hotspots for targeted approaches to managing the disease.
A study co-authored by an Iowa State University professor identified a single protein that triggers chemical signals called effectors in cyst nematodes, which hijack plant cells. Disrupting this protein could severely reduce nematode infections, making it a powerful method for reducing crop damage.
Scientists have discovered a new bacterial strain, Bacillus thuringiensis RZ2MS9, that can enhance the growth of soybeans and corn when combined with rhizobia. This partnership reduces fertilizer use, saving Brazilian growers an estimated USD 15 billion annually.
A new study confirms copper-based fungicides as a reliable solution for aerial stem rot in potatoes. The research found that copper fungicide treatments consistently slowed disease spread and improved yields over a 10-year period.
Rising temperatures and increased trade enable pests to spread globally, intensifying agriculture weakens natural pest control. Crop losses exceed 40% due to pest and disease impacts, necessitating urgent action for climate-smart management strategies.
Researchers developed a new geospatial intelligence methodology to accurately delineate areas of natural vegetation and agricultural production by crop type. The results showed 95% accuracy in mapping, providing support for public policies aimed at agricultural production and environmental conservation.
Scientists at UC Riverside discovered a way to exploit parasitic plant hormones to induce
An international team of scientists has unveiled the first chromosome-scale genome of a wild barley species, identifying critical genetic adaptations that enable efficient nutrient intake under alkaline stress. The study developed a new hexaploid crop, Tritordeum, which exhibits significant yield improvements in harsh conditions.
Research proposes a new methodology for dynamically optimizing solar panel positioning based on the light needs of crops. Advanced ray tracing techniques are used to evaluate the distribution of solar radiation, enabling the automation of design optimization of agrivoltaic systems.
New University of Sheffield research reveals agrivoltaics can meet UK electricity demand four times over, boosting crop yields and conserving water. Regions identified for effective deployment include Cambridgeshire, Essex, Lincolnshire, and the broader East and South East of England.
A recent study by Edith Cowan University found that spraying persimmon trees with methyl jasmonate (MeJA) results in healthier, longer-lasting fruit with increased antioxidants. The application of MeJA also enhances fruit colour and improves phytochemical quality.
Researchers argue that rewilding productive farmland or forestry in industrialised nations with low biodiversity may do more harm than good on a planetary scale. Efforts to conserve nature can displace production to more biodiverse regions, leading to increased demand for commodities like red meat.
Researchers found that cacao grafting increases crop yield by 45% after just two years, while preserving native arthropod diversity. This approach rejuvenates old cacao crops with minimal ecological impact.
Climate change may lead to increased production of legumes such as chickpeas and soybeans, while oranges and okra become more widely grown. This could support shifts towards a more balanced diet and lower carbon footprint, but also poses economic and environmental risks.
A team of Illinois researchers has been awarded $5 million to create a new variety of corn called NSave, which aims to reduce nitrogen fertilizer use while maintaining crop yield. The project's goal is to lower costs for farmers and reduce the country's reliance on foreign fertilizer imports.
A recent study published in Weed Science shows that seed impact mills can reduce the number of germinable seeds by 87% compared to no-impact mill treatment. The technology damages weed seeds, making them non-viable and reducing seedbank density, which is critical for future herbicide-resistance management.
Researchers at John Innes Centre have discovered a biological mechanism that enhances partnerships between plant roots and soil microbes, increasing nutrient uptake. This finding holds great potential for advancing sustainable agriculture by reducing the need for inorganic fertilizers.
A University of Houston study found that different genotypes of hemp have unique microbial communities that impact CBD production and fiber quality. The research, published in Nature, highlights the potential for microbiome diversity to inform more sustainable farming practices.