New NASA satellite takes the Salton Sea's temperature
The NASA Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM) satellite uses its Thermal Infrared Sensor to measure the temperature of the Salton Sea, detecting cooler areas as dark and warm areas as bright.
Crops
Articles tagged with Crops
Fires in Nepal
Nepal and India experience widespread agricultural fires, burning in the April 13, 2013 image from NASA's MODIS satellite. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) detected actively burning areas, which are outlined in red.
Fires in Southeast Asia
Fires in Southeast Asia are ongoing, with crop burning identified as a primary cause. NASA images capture the extent of these fires, which can have devastating environmental impacts.
Fires in India and Nepal
Dozens of agricultural fires have been set in India and Nepal, with the NASA MODIS satellite capturing their extent. The fires are outlined in red on this natural-color image from April 06, 2013.
Multi-toxin biotech crops not silver bullets, scientists warn
A new study by University of Arizona entomologists reveals that the pyramid strategy for genetically modified crops may not be as durable as previously assumed. The research found that critical assumptions underlying the strategy do not always apply, and that some degree of cross-resistance between toxins can reduce its effectiveness.
Regulation recommendations so that biofuel plants don't become weeds
Researchers at the University of Illinois suggest reforming regulatory lists using a science-based process and assessing potential invasiveness. This could lead to better protection for natural areas against invasive species, but may not threaten the development of new biofuels crops.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMar 26, 2013
Wild pollinators increase crop fruit set regardless of honey bees
A large-scale study found that wild insects consistently enhance fruit set for a broad range of crops and agricultural practices on all continents. The researchers concluded that losses of wild insects from agricultural landscapes will likely impact both natural heritage and harvests.
Loss of wild insects hurts crops around the world
A recent study found that managed honey bees are less successful at pollinating crops than wild insects, highlighting the negative consequences of losing wild insect populations. The research emphasizes the need for integrated management practices to promote long-term agricultural production and enhance global crop yields.
'Growing' medicines in plants requires new regulations
The EU directive on GMOs must be amended to allow the production of plant-made pharmaceuticals, which could lead to cheaper vaccines, pharmaceuticals, and organic plastics. The new regulations should provide tight oversight to encourage investment while maintaining trust.
Thirsty crops and hungry people: Symposium to examine realities of water security
The symposium aims to find solutions to the increasing gap between food production and water availability. Experts will discuss ways to optimize water use in crop production, protect freshwater resources, and reuse gray water to ensure both adequate food and abundant water supplies for future generations.
Food science expert: Genetically modified crops are overregulated
A food science expert argues that genetically modified foods pose no special risks to consumers or the environment. The overregulation of GM crops wastes resources and diverts attention from real food safety issues.
Malawi's bountiful harvests and healthier children
A research project in Malawi has led to significant increases in crop yields, with corn production rising by 200% through crop rotation. Meanwhile, children's weight and height have improved, meeting international norms for healthy children. The program's success is attributed to the adoption of bushy legumes and diverse crop rotations.
Wild plants are infected with many viruses and still thrive
Researchers found that wild plants with multiple viral infections remained healthy, suggesting a cooperative role for the microbe. The viruses were passed from plants to their offspring through seeds and may play a beneficial role in plant life, making them more resilient to extreme temperatures and drought.
Avoiding virus dangers in 'domesticating' wild plants for biofuel use
The domestication of wild plants for biofuel use can increase virus pressure in crop areas unless mitigated. Perennial plants in nature grow slower but are better equipped to fight off viruses, whereas annual plants can serve as 'amplifiers' producing lots of viruses and insects.
Advance promises to expand biological control of crop pests
A new discovery allows for expanded use of a mainstay biological pest control method, the sterile insect technique (SIT), which avoids health and environmental concerns. The approach involves mass release of radiation-sterilized insects that mate but produce no offspring, reducing pest populations.
Can simple measures of labile soil organic matter predict corn performance?
Researchers found that simple measures of labile soil organic matter, such as nitrogen mineralization and carbon mineralization, can predict corn performance. These inexpensive tests reflect long-term management and short-term seasonal changes.
Benefits of Bt corn go beyond rootworm resistance
Bt corn has higher yields and uses nitrogen more efficiently due to its healthy root system, leading to increased production and potential changes in management practices. This study demonstrates the benefits of Bt corn beyond rootworm resistance.
Corn cobs eyed for bioenergy production
Agricultural Research Service study finds that removing corn cob residues from fields does not harm soil quality, supporting the development of new bioenergy sources. Soils retain potassium from cobs, making them a potential raw material for cellulosic ethanol production.
SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateJan 31, 2013
Understanding the historical probability of drought
Researchers from Oklahoma State University created a reliable 'calendar' of seasonal drought patterns that can help farmers avoid costly losses to drought conditions. By considering soil properties and water deficits, the study found that traditional atmospheric measurements underestimated drought probabilities.
Global research team decodes genome sequence of 90 chickpea lines
A global research team has completed high-quality sequencing of 90 chickpea genomes, revealing clues on how to improve crop resilience. The study provides a map of the genes that define the chickpea plant, potentially leading to improved varieties with enhanced drought tolerance and disease resistance.
Clemson University researchers: What happens to peaches when the chill is gone?
Peach trees require specific chilling hours to produce flowers and fruit. Clemson researchers are studying the mechanisms of chilling and heat requirements to help breeders adapt cultivars to warmer winters. The goal is to maintain high fruit-quality traits while breeding for increased heat requirement.
Corn could help farmers fight devastating weed
Researchers in China have discovered that corn can be used as a trap crop to control the devastating parasitic weed sunflower broomrape. The weed causes significant damage to vegetable and row crops, but using corn as a trap crop can induce suicidal germination in the weed, reducing its impact.
Better tools for saving water and keeping peaches healthy
Researchers used infrared sensors and thermal technology to evaluate irrigation strategies in peach orchards. They found that midday canopy-to-air temperature differences were significantly higher in water-stressed trees, indicating the potential for effective management of water use.
Relocating elephants fails to decrease human–wildlife conflict
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that relocating elephants to national parks does not decrease human-wildlife conflict. In fact, the translocated elephants were involved in more conflicts and killed five people over a year, highlighting the need for alternative conservation strategies.
Plant stress paints early picture of drought
Scientists use satellite data to map plant stress, providing early warning signs of drought. The maps can aid in drought forecasts and help farmers make practical decisions sooner.
Synthetic fuel could eliminate US need for crude oil
A team of Princeton researchers found that using synthetic fuel made from coal, natural gas, and non-food crops could cut US vehicle greenhouse emissions by up to 50% in the next several decades. The process is competitive with crude oil production and has potential environmental advantages.
Chinese scientists decode watermelon genome, possible future benefits for crop improvement
The study provides a high-quality genome sequence of an East-Asia watermelon cultivar and resequencing of 20 watermelon accessions, shedding light on the molecular basis of disease resistance and evolutionary history. The results reveal clusters of resistance genes and tandem duplications as potential evolutionary bases for these traits.
Pear genome provides new insight into breeding improvement and evolutionary trace analysis
The pear genome sequence offers a valuable resource for breeding improvement and studying evolutionary history, with similarities to apple and strawberry genomes. The sequence reveals diverse genetic information, including repetitive sequences and transposable elements, shedding light on the crop's unique characteristics.
Collaring tapirs to help them survive
A MSU team is working to collar Baird's tapirs in Nicaragua to monitor their movements and determine how they can co-exist with local farmers. The research aims to find a balance between the animals' survival and crop protection.
Southampton to help develop new crops for water-stressed environments
The University of Southampton is leading a €11.6 million EU-funded research project to develop new crops that can withstand drought, addressing the impact of climate change on crop productivity. The project aims to characterise DNA variation in under-utilised crops and harness this knowledge to produce better crops.
Could chloroplast breakthrough unlock key to controlling fruit ripening in crops?
Researchers have identified a gene that regulates chloroplast development through the ubiquitin-proteasome system, potentially unlocking control over fruit ripening in crops. The discovery may enable manipulation of chloroplast functions to improve crop yields and reduce food waste.
With new mass spectrometer, researchers can grow knowledge of plants and environmental stress
Researchers at Kansas State University are using the new mass spectrometer to analyze plant responses to heat, cold, and other stresses. By studying Arabidopsis thaliana, a model plant species, they aim to improve crop plants' ability to withstand environmental stress.
Food versus fuel: Is there surplus land for bioenergy?
The study suggests that a thorough reassessment of land availability for bioenergy production is needed to account for environmental and socio-economic constraints. Policy recommendations aim to resolve conflicting land-use demands and promote sustainable development.
SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBIORISK – Biodiversity and Ecosystem Risk Assessment·DateOct 18, 2012
Genetically Modfied Organisms (GMO) need to be assessed through systematic networks
A European-wide network aims to improve GMO regulatory systems through systematic environmental impact assessments. The network addresses public concerns and creates confidence in the ENSyGMO results by analyzing GM crop effects using integrated approaches and methods at various scales.
SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBIORISK – Biodiversity and Ecosystem Risk Assessment·DateOct 18, 2012
A European-wide network for systematic GMO impact assessment
A European-wide network for systematic GMO impact assessment aims to improve the regulatory system by harmonizing environmental risk assessment and post-market monitoring. The framework proposes various methodologies, including indicator and field site selection, agro-environment typology, and state-of-the-art sampling approaches.
SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalBIORISK – Biodiversity and Ecosystem Risk Assessment·DateOct 17, 2012
MSU to lead $1.6 million grant on national crop pollination
Michigan State University has been awarded a $1.6 million grant from the USDA to support specialty crop yields and profit through improved pollination management. The five-year project aims to develop region- and crop-specific Integrated Crop Pollination approaches using honey bees, wild bees, and alternative managed bees.
Napiergrass: A potential biofuel crop for the sunny Southeast
Researchers found that Napiergrass is a viable biofuel crop in the Southeast's southern tier, offering advantages such as continued biomass production until the first frost. Further studies are underway to improve yields, fiber content, and disease resistance.
SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalAgricultural Research·DateSep 27, 2012
Landsat satellites find the 'sweet spot' for crops
Farmers can create detailed maps using NASA and USGS Landsat satellite data to identify areas suitable for crops, reducing fertilizer waste and promoting sustainable agriculture. The technology uses band combinations to rapidly recognize features and changes over time, supporting crop analysis and decision-making.
Managing soil copper in crops irrigated with cattle footbath wastewater
Researchers found that alfalfa growth stops when soil copper sulfate levels exceed 500 ppm and beneficial bacterial activity declines above 50 ppm. Crops irrigated with cattle footbath wastewater can accumulate plant-available copper levels up to 63 ppm, posing potential harm to grazing livestock.
SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalJournal of Agricultural Science·DateSep 24, 2012
Screening technique uncovers 5 new plant activator compounds
The new screening technique uncovers five novel immune-priming compounds in Arabidopsis plants that protect crops without impacting growth or yield. These compounds work by inhibiting enzymes that inactivate defense hormone salicylic acid, leading to enhanced disease resistance.
Researchers use 'banker plants' to help battle whitefly pests
Researchers have successfully used papaya as a banker plant to control silverleaf whiteflies, reducing pesticide use and promoting environmentally friendly pest management. The system involves using non-stinging wasps to feed on the whiteflies and is being tested in commercial greenhouses.
SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalBiological Control·DateSep 10, 2012
Clemson plant pathologist working to raise cucurbit yields, lower production costs
A Clemson University researcher is working on a project to develop a model that can predict the risk of downy mildew infection in cucurbit crops. This model aims to help reduce the need for fungicides, lower production costs, and increase crop yields.
Discovery may help protect crops from stressors
Researchers have identified a key genetic mechanism in plant hormone signaling that helps plants balance between drought resistance and growth. The discovery may lead to new methods to help plants thrive in tough conditions and reduce crop losses from stress.
A greener way to fertilize nursery crops
A U.S. Department of Agriculture scientist has discovered a natural, biodegradable chelating agent called EDDS that can replace existing fertilizers contributing to waterway pollution. The findings support the use of EDDS in floral and nursery crop industries, promoting environmental sustainability.
SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalHortScience·DateAug 27, 2012
Plants unpack winter coats when days get shorter
Research demonstrates that plants trigger their defense mechanisms against freezing temperatures with shortening daylight, unlike trees which do it with waning sunlight. This understanding gives potential tools to fine-tune regulation and increase crop productivity.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 27, 2012
Clemson scholar receives top agriculture science award
Chittaranjan Kole, a Clemson University scientist, has received the Outstanding Crop Scientist Award from the International Crop Science Society for his lifetime and original contributions to crop science. He is recognized for developing crop varieties for functional foods and dietary supplements to combat chronic ailments.
Researchers demonstrate control of devastating cassava virus in Africa
African farmers face devastating losses due to cassava brown streak disease. Researchers have made progress in developing virus-resistant cassava using RNA interference technology, pointing towards improved cassava productivity and economic growth for the region.
Birds do better in 'agroforests' than on farms
A University of Utah study found that agroforests with shade-grown coffee and cacao promote greater bird diversity compared to open farmland. The findings suggest that as forests are converted to open agriculture, bird species providing ecosystem services like insect control, seed dispersal, and pollination may decline.
Public strongly supports programs helping farmers adapt to climate change
A survey of Michigan residents shows overwhelming support for government programs helping farmers adapt to climate change. The study found that more than 65% of respondents backed financial assistance for farmers, with many linking it to concerns over recent food price increases and long-term food security.
Tannins in sorghum and benefits focus of university, USDA study
A team of scientists has cloned the tannin gene in sorghum, revealing its role in promoting human health through antioxidant properties. The study also explores ways to alter tannins to improve sorghum's use as food and feed.
SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2012
Adoption of advanced techniques could propel crop improvement
Researchers argue that adopting molecular phenotyping techniques like ionomics and genome-wide association mapping could broaden our understanding of complex interactions in plants. This knowledge could lead to more efficient crop improvement strategies, particularly for adapting to changing environmental conditions.
Prairie cordgrass: Highly underrated
Researchers have identified prairie cordgrass as a promising alternative to switchgrass for biomass production due to its high yield potential and environmental sustainability. The grass has been found to be well-suited for marginal land, particularly in wet environments, making it an attractive option for conservation efforts.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalCrop Science·DateJun 26, 2012
Fungicide used on farm crops linked to insulin resistance
A recent study has found that exposure to the fungicide tolylfluanid can induce insulin resistance in fat cells, providing new evidence of the link between environmental pollutants and diabetes. This discovery raises concerns about the potential health risks of using this chemical on farm crops.
Trouble on the horizon for GM crops?
A study by researchers at the University of Arizona found that pest populations are evolving resistance to genetically modified cotton plants, which produce toxins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis. The discovery highlights the need for closer monitoring and countering of pest resistance to biotech crops.
Bigger refuges needed to delay pest resistance to biotech corn
To slow resistance of western corn rootworm beetles to genetically protected crops, much larger 'refuge' acreages of conventional crops have to be planted, two experts warn. Increasing refuge requirements can delay pest resistance and sustain the benefits of Bt corn.
Larger refuges needed to sustain success of transgenic corn
Scientists recommend increasing refuge acreage for Bt corn to slow western corn rootworm resistance and promote integrated pest management. The current 20% refuge requirement may not be sufficient to delay resistance, and doubling the size of refuges could help sustain the success of transgenic corn.
OU scientists and international team decipher the genetic code of the tomato
The University of Oklahoma led a US-based team in sequencing the tomato genome, revealing new insights into fruit characteristics. The achievement has significant implications for developing more desirable strains with higher yields, increased disease resistance, and improved flavor.
Time is ticking for some crop's wild relatives
Researchers are launching a nationwide effort to conserve crop wild relatives in the US, recognizing that these plants have value in adapting food systems to climate change. The plants' genetic material could be used to breed drought-resistant crops, making them essential for global agriculture.
Groundwater depletion in semiarid regions of Texas and California threatens US food security
Researchers warn of rapid groundwater depletion in California's Central Valley and the High Plains, posing risks to US food production. The study suggests that unsustainable irrigation practices may lead to economic challenges for farmers, particularly in the southern High Plains.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 28, 2012
Ben-Gurion U. researchers successfully test solar desalination system for arid land agriculture
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University successfully tested a solar-powered desalination system that provides high-quality irrigation water for crops in arid regions. The system uses nanofiltration membranes to treat brackish water, resulting in 25% less irrigation and fertilizer needed compared to traditional practices.