Articles tagged with Crops
UC Riverside scientists will use genomic technology to develop new and improved cowpea cultivars with drought tolerance and resistance to pests and diseases. The goal is to benefit resource-poor African farmers by increasing yields and income generation.
A recent MIT study warns that increasing levels of human-generated ozone will damage global vegetation, particularly crops, resulting in significant economic costs. By 2100, crop production is projected to decline by 10-12 percent, with the most affected regions being northern temperate areas.
A low-fat vegetarian diet is efficient in terms of land use, but adding some dairy products and limited meat may increase efficiency. The study found that a high-fat diet with a lot of meat requires more land (2.11 acres) than some higher fat vegetarian diets.
The Great Plains' stability is threatened by demographic shifts, environmental degradation, and economic pressures. Despite increased crop productivity, the region faces challenges such as soil erosion, high nitrate runoff, and declining aquifers.
Researchers developed a simplified protocol to teach growers how to convert complex yield and soil data into pertinent information, enabling site-specific management decisions. By using this protocol, Australian growers improved their field management, including implementing site-specific nutrient and pest management treatments.
A study funded by Cargill Crop Nutrition found that varying nitrogen application rates can increase corn yield with similar or higher nitrogen rates, but may not improve grain quality. Researchers also discovered that one hybrid performed better than the other under both uniform and varied nitrogen applications.
University of Illinois researchers warn that higher corn prices are causing some farmers to ignore integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, which could undermine the effectiveness of technologies that sustain them. IPM is a set of principles developed to minimize ecological impacts of pesticides and transgenic crops.
A new study predicts that Americans' 401(k) plans will be substantially wealthier in real terms by 2040, even if stock market returns are lower than historical values. The research found that future retirees will likely have more assets due to longer working careers and the shift towards 401(k) plans.
A four-year study found that sunn hemp cover crop significantly reduces contamination levels of atrazine and its products in groundwater. The use of sunn hemp can help mitigate the risk of groundwater contamination in Southern Florida, where soil and water conditions indicate potential for leaching from atrazine-based herbicides.
A NASA researcher has created a new method to anticipate food shortages brought on by drought using satellite remote sensing of crop growth and food prices. The model can help humanitarian aid organizations and decision makers predict how much food will be available and its cost, taking climate variables into account.
Scientists propose new cropping strategies for a variable climate, exploring crop sequencing decisions based on weather patterns and management goals. The study's findings highlight the importance of understanding short-term crop sequencing effects on agronomic and environmental attributes.
A NASA researcher has developed a new method to anticipate food shortages brought on by drought using satellite remote sensing of crop growth and food prices. The model can help government and humanitarian aid officials plan and respond to drought-induced food price increases, reducing the risk of famine.
A new Illinois-based study has found that Miscanthus is more productive than switchgrass in terms of biomass production, with Miscanthus gaining 33% more carbon and having a greater leaf area. This research has implications for the development of sustainable bioenergy crops.
A Cornell University research project has found that on-farm trials have shown farmers can successfully reduce fertilizer applications without impacting yield and quality. By monitoring soil nitrogen levels, corn growers can optimize their application rates, resulting in cost savings of up to $10-$12 per acre.
A new study published in Science analyzed the environmental impact of genetically modified (GM) crops and found that they can have benefits for sustainable agriculture. The research used data from field experiments worldwide and found that Bt-crops, which produce an insecticide internally, can reduce the need for chemical spraying.
Researchers found that alternative soil fertility management and reduced tillage increased sorghum crop yield in eastern Uganda. Local farmers participated in on-farm trials to evaluate the effectiveness of low-cost alternatives, including mucuna fallow, cowpea rotation, and manure application.
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new corn variety that can break down cellulose in leaves and stalks into simple sugars for ethanol production. This innovation allows for more cost-effective and efficient production of ethanol, enabling the sale of waste products as an economically viable commodity.
US crops are susceptible to attack by terrorists, who could use devastating plant pathogens as weapons. The need for prevention and preparedness strategies is crucial, including border inspections, crop surveillance, and rapid pathogen identification.
Red squirrels have figured out a way to predict spruce tree seed crops months in advance and bet on the most abundant harvests. By producing second litters before bumper crop seasons, they increase their chances of survival and reproductive success.
In a study published in Science, researchers found that red squirrels are able to predict the timing of tree seed production and produce a second litter of babies to take advantage of the abundant food. This strategy allows them to maximize their reproductive success, outsmarting the trees' 'swamp and starve' tactic.
Researchers at Iowa State University are working on a system to harvest corn stover, the stalks and leaves of corn plants, in a single pass using standard combines. The goal is to create a cost-effective method to produce plant fiber that feeds next-generation ethanol plants.
A new cost-benefit model measures the value of ecosystem services benefiting humans, such as flood control and crop pollination. This approach fosters win-win solutions between wilderness advocates and landowners. The study analyzed six ecosystem services in the California Central Coast region, finding overlaps with biodiversity priori...
A new study suggests that earlier corn plantings in the US Corn Belt may lead to a decrease in crop yields in the future. Farmers have been planting seeds around two weeks earlier than they did 30 years ago, but this trend may not be sustainable due to seasonal limitations.
Researchers at the University of Georgia have discovered a way to halt damage caused by root-knot nematodes, devastating plant pathogens worldwide. By genetically modifying plants with RNA interference, they've created crops resistant to all four most economically important species, offering a sustainable solution for growers.
A study found that wild bees improve honeybee effectiveness in pollinating flowers and generating seeds, especially on farms with abundant natural habitats. This phenomenon contributes significantly to the sunflower industry, adding around $10 million in value annually.
Scientists have redefined the role of plant pores in defense against bacterial pathogens, discovering that stomata can sense danger and respond by shutting down. The study found that some bacteria produce a phytotoxin to reopen shut-down ports, highlighting a key step in the attack.
The DOE JGI has selected over 40 projects to sequence the genomes of switchgrass, cassava, and other organisms for biofuel production. The goal is to improve biomass productivity and feedstock quality for a more sustainable energy future.
A new DNA 'fingerprinting' technique separates hemp from marijuana by analyzing genetic markers. This method has the potential to distinguish marijuana varieties and aid in establishing origins of seized drugs, with implications for drug distribution networks and criminal defenses.
A team of researchers has successfully engineered a drought-resistant gene into tomato plants, resulting in stronger root systems that can better utilize limited water. The technology could be applied to all crops, addressing the global concern of water scarcity and potentially increasing food production.
A new DNA-based technique measures soil suitability for onion crops by detecting nematodes and fungus at the molecular level. This method surpasses traditional microscopic methods in accuracy and speed, enabling growers to make informed decisions about crop cultivation.
Wastewater can be safely reused for irrigation if pretreated, monitored, and using correct crops, say researchers. The study found that viruses in wastewater could linger in soil for up to a month, but were not detected on spinach leaves.
Researchers have identified a group of ribonucleases that play a role in self-incompatibility, a mechanism preventing plants from fertilizing each other. This discovery has the potential to enhance breeding strategies for coffee varieties.
A £1.8m UK project aims to identify genes that improve barley quality for whisky production, benefiting growers, producers, and drinkers, while supporting the Scottish agricultural economy.
A simple packaged intervention improved storage of groundnuts among farmers in Guinea, reducing aflatoxin levels by over half. The intervention significantly lowered disease burden related to the potent environmental toxin, which is associated with increased risk of liver cancer and impaired child growth.
Researchers found that soil quality played a crucial role in shaping Polynesian farming patterns, with farmers adapting their agricultural system to optimal zones for sweet potato cropping. The study suggests that the emergence of warrior classes was linked to surplus agriculture and the ability to produce basic foodstuffs.
A recent study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has discovered a highly toxic byproduct in chloramines-treated water. Iodoacids have been found to be DNA-damaging and more toxic than previously regulated DBPs, raising health concerns and prompting calls for a delay in EPA's Stage 2 rule.
Researchers discovered a specific Mlo gene fragment in the genome of mutant barley, which enables plants to resist powdery mildew. The mutation is believed to have occurred less than 10,000 years ago in Ethiopia, highlighting the importance of preserving crop diversity.
The project aims to examine both natural and human factors that spread transgenes into non-engineered crops and natural populations. Biological scientists will collaborate with social scientists to develop a global model of gene flow, accounting for human and natural processes.
No-till farming reduces carbon emissions by retaining humus in the soil, preventing erosion and promoting healthy crop production. By adopting no-till practices, farmers can sequester up to 300 million tons of soil carbon annually, potentially delaying the need for fossil fuels.
Researchers explore new natural pesticides derived from plants and microorganisms to combat parasitic weeds that destroy large areas of crops. Scientists are developing broad-spectrum herbicides with targeted resistance to useful crops.
A UK public debate on GM food was evaluated as providing valuable lessons for future debates, but failed to engage the uncommitted public. The survey revealed that 36% opposed GM food, while 85% believed more research is needed on its health effects.
Researchers found that traditional Iroquois cropping systems, mimicking natural polycultures, outperform monoculture methods in controlling pests and diseases. The 'three sisters' system also promotes soil fertility through crop residue recycling.
Astronomers have discovered a possible link between a comet impact in the 6th century and the 'Dark Ages.' The comet's debris caused a prolonged cold period, similar to a nuclear winter, resulting in crop failures and widespread starvation. A small comet size was needed to cause such dramatic effects.
Fourteen individuals elected to Soil Science Society of America Fellowship for professional achievements and meritorious service in the field. The award honors outstanding contributions to agronomy and soil sciences.
Research reveals that mass flowering crops, such as oilseed rape, play a crucial role in enhancing bumblebee densities in agricultural landscapes. Contrary to previous assumptions, the availability of these crops at a landscape scale is essential for supporting pollinator populations.
A study of Santa Cruz, Bolivia, found that replacing tropical forests with crops can increase daytime temperatures and decrease nighttime temperatures. This occurs because crops are less efficient at cooling the air through transpiration, a process where water evaporates from leaves during photosynthesis.
A recent study by Colorado University-led researchers highlights the growing health risks associated with changes in the global nitrogen cycle. The excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers has led to increased crop production in poor nations but poses significant environmental and health concerns for humans worldwide.
Engineers studied the impacts of 9/11 on the World Trade Center, discovering factors that minimized infrastructure disruption. The study highlighted the importance of wireless communication, compartmentalized electrical systems, and heroic actions by utility workers.
Researchers have discovered that Solanum sisymbriifolium can eliminate potato cyst nematodes from the soil, which are difficult to control. By cultivating this plant between potato harvests, farmers may be able to reduce the need for pesticides and improve crop yields.
A policy report by Oregon State University professor Steven Strauss argues that government regulations on genetic engineering are stifling research and favoring large corporations. The report suggests reducing regulations for
Scientists emphasize the need for improved nitrogen management to address its impact on the environment, human health, and agriculture. Targeted research and educational programs can optimize fertilizer efficiency, reducing environmental damage and associated economic costs.
Researchers found liquid sewage sludge to be just as effective as traditional synthetic fertilizers in improving crop yields and nutrient content. The study also showed low levels of heavy metals in crops, groundwater, and soil, making it a promising environmentally safe alternative for waste disposal.
A recent study uses sunflowers to predict the likelihood of genes from hybrid crops entering wild populations. The research found that domesticated crop genes can persist even when hybrids perform poorly, suggesting a challenge for controlling their spread.
New research reveals that health problems among American Indians began thousands of years ago, with agriculture and urbanization contributing to a decline in overall health. Indigenous groups living along coastal areas had the healthiest skeletons, while nomads and rural settlers were also among the healthiest groups.
Mathematical theory explains how high dose/refuge strategy works, allowing farmers to protect crops in refuges. The analysis leads to unexpected results, including minimal impact of insecticides on refuge value for some Bt crops and pests.
A new study suggests that future extreme rain events could cause significant crop losses and damages, particularly in the US Corn Belt. The researchers used a modified crop model to simulate the effects of excess soil moisture on corn crops, finding potential damages up to $3 billion per year by the 2030s.
Climate change is expected to increase winter temperatures, leading to greater risks for perennial forage crops in Eastern Canada. The study used agro-climatic indices to analyze the effect of climate conditions on winter survival, finding increased risks due to warmer winters and reduced cold hardiness.
Illinois growers face significant economic losses due to Phytophthora capsici, a disease affecting pumpkins, peppers, and other crops. A crop can be lost in a week without intervention.
Illicit crops, particularly opium poppies, are expanding into critical bird habitats in the Andes region of Colombia. This could lead to devastating effects on forest-dependent bird species if the expansion continues.
The EO-1 satellite has produced over four times the expected volume of imagery, demonstrating the effectiveness of its Hyperion and Advanced Land Imager (ALI) instruments in monitoring Earth's surfaces. These instruments have already proven invaluable in applications such as forestry and agricultural crop assessment.