Biology and Life Sciences

Abstract: Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) has significant agronomic and nutritional value. However, it is highly susceptible to destructive soil-borne pathogens, particularly vascular wilt and root rot caused by Fusarium species. While chemical-based fungicides are conventionally used for disease management, their overuse or misuse poses severe ecological and health risks. Trichoderma species are widely recognized for their dual capacity to promote plant growth and suppress diseases, making them valuable biological control agents in sustainable agriculture practices. This study aims to isolate endophytic Trichoderma strains from loquat tissues and identify them based on ITS, tef1-α, rpb2 and acl1 sequencing and morphological evaluation , as well as to evaluate their antifungal properties and plant growth promotion capabilities both in vitro and in vivo. It showed that T. asperellum B077R1 and T. virens GFR9 effectively impeded the mycelial growth of both Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium solani in the in vitro dual culture assay. Moreover, T. asperellum B077R1 demonstrated the highest growth-promoting activity and biocontrol efficacy in the greenhouse pot assay, significantly reducing disease severity and enhanced plant height, total biomass (fresh and dry weight) and photosynthetic pigment content. Our study provides new evidence that newly isolated endophytic strains of Trichoderma from the loquat exhibit robust host compatibility and provide a promising sustainable strategy for improving the health and production of perennial fruit crops.

Abstract: Huanglongbing (HLB), caused by Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) and vectored by Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri), remains a major constraint to sustainable citrus production. In Florida, individual protective covers (IPCs) have been adopted as an effective psyllid exclusion tool by shielding young trees from this vector of the phloem-dwelling bacterium CLas. Brassinosteroids (BRs), a class of plant steroid hormones, are being explored as a treatment to mitigate HLB and are approved for commercial use in the state. We investigated the effect of IPCs combined with homobrassinolide (HBr) applied as a foliar spray, on CLas titer, canopy volume, tree growth, yield, fruit quality, and defense-related gene expression of the salicylic acid (SA) pathways in ‘Tango’ mandarin grafted on sour orange (SO) or US-942 rootstocks. After being covered with IPCs in the field for three years, trees were subjected to monthly foliar application of HBr upon IPC removal. The experiment included four treatment groups: trees with IPC and HBr spray (IPC HBr+), IPC without HBr (IPC HBr-), no-IPC with HBr (no-IPC HBr+), and no-IPC without HBr (no-IPC HBr-). IPCs effectively delayed bacterial infection for six to nine months after IPC removal, maintaining higher Ct values (lower CLas titers) than in no-IPC trees, confirming the protective effect of IPCs against early CLas colonization. The combination of IPCs and HBr spray significantly enhanced canopy volume, particularly in trees grafted on SO. This effect was sustained over one year and was consistently greater in IPC HBr+ trees than in IPC HBr- and no-IPC HBr+ or HBr- trees, suggesting a synergistic effect of the combined therapy on enhancing tree growth. The tree height and trunk diameter were primarily improved by IPC, regardless of HBr treatment. IPC-treated trees exhibited significantly greater height and trunk diameters (scion and rootstock) than no-IPC trees across one or both rootstocks, indicating that IPCs alone contribute to these horticultural growth improvements. IPC trees also showed reduced preharvest fruit drop compared to the no-IPCs trees, resulting in higher yields, with additional gains observed in IPC HBr+ trees on SO. Fruit quality attributes, including °Brix, titratable acidity, peel color, and size, did not differ significantly among treatments. Importantly, gene expression analysis revealed early and sustained upregulation of key SA pathway genes in IPC HBr+ trees, indicating that HBr effectively activated systemic acquired resistance (SAR), particularly on SO rootstock. This study highlights the complementary roles of IPCs and HBr in the management of HLB. While IPCs provided essential early protection against CLas and promoted long-term horticultural growth, HBr enhanced early canopy development, activated host defense mechanisms, and enhanced yield. The integration of both approaches offers a sustainable and effective strategy to protect young citrus trees, delay CLas infection, and improve tree health and productivity under endemic HLB.

Abstract: Durio zibethinus Murr., commonly known as durian or the "King of Fruits," is prized for its strong aroma, spiny rind, and unique flavor. With global demand rising, it has become a key export, especially for Thailand, which led the market in 2024 with US$4.4 billion in revenue. However, breeding efforts are hindered by limited genetic diversity research, long generation times, and environmental sensitivity. These challenges are compounded by weak enforcement of intellectual property protections under Thailand’s Plant Variety Protection Act (PVP), which limits incentives for breeders. To address this, Thailand has turned to Geographical Indications (GIs) to protect and promote region-specific varieties. By 2024, 17 GI designations were granted across 16 provinces, including the notable Monthong durian from Pakchong in Nakhon Ratchasima. Although classified under the Monthong group, genetic similarity was observed, while notable phenotypic variation exists among varieties. These differences may be attributed to specific agronomic or genetic traits, warranting investigation into the cultivation characteristics that influence consumer-related qualities and preferences. Strengthening supply chain standards through good agricultural practices, GIs, genetic profiling, and international certification would support sustainable economic growth, improved farmer revenues, and long-term global competitiveness in the durian industry.

Abstract: Low-temperature stress severely limits early-spring melon (Cucumis melo L.) production. However, the regulatory roles of NAC transcription factors in melon responses to abiotic stress remain insufficiently understood. In this study, the melon cultivar ‘Xizhoumi No. 17’ was used as the experimental material, and an Agrobacterium-mediated root transformation system was employed to generate CmNAC29-overexpressing and empty-vector control plants. Phenotypic analysis, physiological measurements, transcriptome sequencing, and molecular interaction assays were performed to systematically investigate the regulatory mechanism by which CmNAC29 mediates chilling tolerance in melon roots. The results showed that CmNAC29 overexpression significantly alleviated cold stress-induced growth inhibition in melon seedlings, reduced membrane lipid peroxidation, and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities and proline accumulation. Transcriptome analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes associated with CmNAC29 overexpression were significantly enriched in functional categories related to oxidoreductase activity. Further validation showed that CmNAC29 upregulated the expression of antioxidant enzyme genes, the key proline biosynthesis gene CmP5CS1, and core components of the ICE-CBF-COR pathway. Molecular assays confirmed that CmNAC29 possesses transcriptional activation activity and directly binds to the promoters of CmP5CS1-1 and CmCOR413 by recognizing NAC-binding sites, thereby activating their transcription. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that CmNAC29 positively regulates chilling tolerance in melon seedlings by coordinately enhancing antioxidant defense, osmotic adjustment, and cold signal transduction. This study provides an important genetic resource and theoretical basis for the molecular breeding of cold-tolerant melon cultivars.

Abstract: Tomato reproductive development is influenced by both environmental and genetic factors. Climate change modifies these factors, necessitating the development of tools to optimize reproductive processes. This study evaluated seaweed extracts from Macrocystis sp., Lessonia sp., and Ascophyllum nodosum as biostimulants. The effects of these extracts on flowering, fruit set (the transition of flowers into fruit), and fruit ripening were assessed following foliar application at 0.25% w/v. A significant improvement in floral fertilization (successful pollination and fruit formation) was observed, with DuoAlgae resulting in a 100% increase compared to the control. Anisotropic growth was also recorded: Fertimar SC increased fruit length by 13.77% and the number of mature fruits by 130.41% relative to the control. Regarding fruit quality, chlorophyll content increased at the breaker stage (the initial stage of color change). At the red stage, elevated levels of NO3- (nitrate), K+ (potassium), TSS (total soluble solids), lycopene, and β-carotene were detected. Collectively, these results indicate that biostimulants modulate reproductive development and fruit quality, underscoring the potential of Peruvian algae to enhance crop productivity

Abstract: The performance of native landraces of Capsicum annuum L. under contrasting production systems remains poorly understood, limiting their integration into optimized production schemes. This study evaluated the phenological and productive responses of five genotypes (four native landraces and one commercial cultivar) under two sys-tems representing locally relevant production conditions: open-field (OF) and a sub-strate-based hydroponic system under low-technology, passively ventilated tunnel-type greenhouse conditions (GH), in order to identify differences in genotype performance across environments during the 2023 growing season in Puebla, Mexico. Agroclimatic and agronomic variables were analyzed using independent ANOVA by system and canonical correlation analysis (CCA). The GH system exhibited restrictive microclimatic conditions, with maximum temperatures exceeding 48 °C and photo-synthetically active radiation reduced by approximately 53% compared to OF conditions. Environmental conditions were not standardized between systems; therefore, the results reflect the contrasting microclimates of locally relevant production systems and provide a context-specific assessment of genotype performance. These conditions were associated with reduced yield across genotypes under GH, whereas higher productivity levels were observed under OF conditions. The commercial cultivar Serrano Tampico achieved the highest yield (1.118 kg per plant under OF), while Mixteco Largo and Cola de Ratón produced the highest number of fruits. The CCA revealed a strong genotype × environment (G×E) interaction, with native landraces showing greater adaptation to open-field conditions. Overall, the results provide evidence of the sensitivity of these materials to the production environment and underscore the need for system-specific selection and management strategies.

Abstract: The succesful escape from slavery between the late 17th and the mid 19thth century depended greatly on the runaway’s skills in adapting themselves to their natural environment. Although published works on the (oral) history of the Maroons hardly contain information on the gardens of the runaways, archival records of military expeditions aimed to destroy Maroon settlements report large provision fields, a variety of crops and ingenious uses of the surrounding forest. Vegetation types, cultivated crops and wild plants, indicated with archaic Dutch and Surinamese names, and written in a variety of spellings, are difficult to interpret for researchers studying archival records of this period. Still, these scholars have seldom collaborated with botanists to decipher such names. What crops did the Maroons grow in and around their hideouts? Which wild plant species were essential for their survival? Here we present a list of ultivated crops, wild useful plants and vegetation types that appear in colonial accounts on the violent destruction of the settlements of those who had sought freedom from the the harsh conditions of slavery. Although written by people who generaly despised Maroons, the accounts of the armed troops reflect the African agency in transforming plant use in the Americas. Their excellent agricultural skills and knowledge of the local flora helped the Maroons to survive and thrive in their hidden forest settlements. Although never mentioned by the reporters, these archival documents also reflect the plant knowledge of indigenous and enslaved militia members.

Abstract: Eryngium foetidum is classified as an Unconventional Food Plant with socio-economic importance in the Amazon. Its propagation units exhibit low and irregular germination due to dormancy, although the type of dormancy remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate methods to overcome dormancy and promote germination in E. foetidum propagation units. Treatments included chemical scarification with sulfuric acid (1, 2, and 3 min), mechanical scarification with sandpaper, immersion in room-temperature water and hot water, and a control treatment. Germination percentage, hard and dead propagation units, normal seedlings, first count, germination speed index (GSI), mean germination time (MGT), and relative frequency were evaluated. Data were analyzed using a heat map and a correlation network. The results revealed the formation of two distinct groups. Group I, consisting of chemical scarification treatments, promoted higher germination percentages and GSI, lower MGT, a significant reduction in hard propagation units, and greater germination uniformity, likely due to partial removal of the seed coat. The correlation network showed a strong negative association between hard units and germination, GSI, and first count, reinforcing the role of physical restriction as a determinant of dormancy. Chemical scarification with sulfuric acid was the most effective method for overcoming dormancy in E. foetidum.

Abstract: A two-year field experiment was conducted in an organic vineyard in Tuscany (Italy), to evaluate the effects of micronized biochar (0.5% v/v) applied via fertigation on soil fertility/biological quality and Vitis vinifera performance. The biochar, derived from pyrogasified mixed wood, was compared to watered controls (CTR) following a randomized plot design. Soil chemical properties, dehydrogenase (DHA) and alkaline phosphatase (APA) activities, and plant parameters (biomass, leaf area, gas exchange, chlorophyll, flavonols, and foliar nutrients) were assessed in samples collected in July and September (2021 and 2022). Biochar did not significantly alter total and dissolved organic carbon contents or nitrogen fractions but enhanced DHA and APA activities, alongside increased available phosphorous content (+37.5%) and exchangeable potassium content (+7.1 and +19.7% in September 2021 and July 2022, respectively), indicating improved microbial activity and nutrient availability. Conversely, exchangeable calcium and magnesium contents decreased, likely due to biochar adsorption properties. Plant responses included increased leaf area and dry biomass in 2022, elevated net photosynthesis rate (+14.4%) and apparent carboxylation efficiency, and transient increases in foliar nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium contents, with reduced magnesium concentration (–27%) but stable chlorophyll levels. These findings suggest that low doses of micronized biochar may enhance soil quality and vine physiology, supporting its efficient and effective use in organic vineyards.

Abstract: Gibberellins (GAs) is a key endogenous hormone regulating chrysanthemum flowering, and Gibberellin INSENSITIVE DWARF1 (GID1) is the core receptor of the gibberellin (GA) signaling pathway. However, the functional mechanism of CmGID1A remains unelucidated. Here, we constructed CmGID1A-RNAi silencing lines, and characterized the biological function of CmGID1A by phenotypic identification, protein interaction assays, qRT-PCR and RNA-seq. The results of RT-qPCR showed that CmGID1A responds to short days and gibberellins. Inhibition of the expression of CmGID1A can significantly promote the transition of chrysanthemum from the vegetative growth stage to the reproductive growth stage and accelerate its flowering process. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) and yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) assays confirmed that CmGID1A interacts with the DELLA protein CmRGL1 in a gibberellin-dependent manner. RNA-seq results revealed that silencing of CmGID1A leads to a significant up-regulation of downstream Ethylene Response Factor 6 (ERF6) expression. Collectively, CmGID1A acts as a GA receptor to mediate GA signal transduction via interacting with CmRGL1, and regulates the expression of CmERF6 and other downstream genes, thereby participating in the regulation of floral transition in chrysanthemum. This study clarifies the core role of CmGID1A in the GA signaling pathway and provides novel experimental data for enriching the molecular regulatory mechanism of GA in floral transition in chrysanthemum.

Abstract: Salinity represents a critical agricultural threat that reduces the productivity of several crops. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), recognized as the world´s second most significant horticultural commodity globally, is salt-sensitive. This research evaluated seed priming treatments (hydro, halo, bacterio, and halo-bacterio) at different phenological stages under two salinity conditions (0 and 16 mM NaCl) as a biotechnological alternative to mitigate salt stress and increase production. Using physiological variables and multivariate statistical analyses, this research demonstrated that priming treatments modified the physiological, nutritional, and productive metabolism of tomato plants. Bacteriopriming, using an endophytic and halophytic bacterial consortium isolated from halophytes, enhanced germination variables and N, P, Ca and Zn absorption in seedlings. In the vegetative and reproductive stage and under stress, halo-bacteriopriming consistently enhanced concentrations of K, Mg, and Zn in leaves and fruits, but decreased Na absorption. This nutritional balance allowed not only a higher concentration of chlorophyll but also a significant increase in yield and beta-carotene concentration in tomato fruits. For the first time, this research demonstrated that the halo-bacteriopriming with this kind of bacteria is a biotechnological strategy to mitigate saline stress, optimizing not only tomato growth, but also its nutraceutical quality. It significantly outperformed the plant response in all stages of development compared to those from control, hydro, and halo-primed treatments.

Abstract: Chili pepper (Capsicum spp.) plays a crucial cultural, nutritional, and economic role in Senegal, supporting smallholder livelihoods, domestic food systems, and regional export markets. However, post-harvest losses associated with traditional open-air drying and storage remain high, particularly under coastal conditions characterized by high relative humidity and variable weather. Improving drying assessment and storage practices is therefore essential to enhance chili quality, safety, and marketability. This study evaluated smallholder chili drying and storage practices in Senegal, with a particular focus on processor dryness judgment, drying surfaces, and storage materials, and assessed the potential role of a simple equilibrium relative humidity (ERH)-based decision-support tool. A participatory, on-farm study was conducted with six chili processors in the Niayes agroecological zone of western Senegal. Freshly harvested chilies were dried concurrently using black plastic sheeting and processors’ customary drying materials under farmer-managed conditions. Processor assessments of storage readiness were compared with ERH-based classifications using the DryCard tool. Drying duration and dry matter content were recorded for each treatment. Dried chilies were subsequently stored in either airtight glass jars or traditional gunny bags, and weight changes were monitored at 25, 45, and 70 days after storage. Data were analysed descriptively using within-processor comparisons to identify consistent patterns across sites. After 15 days of drying, all chili samples were classified as not dried for storage, with DryCard readings of approximately 75% ERH across sites. Final processor-determined drying durations ranged from 29 to 42 days. DryCard ERH values at this stage ranged from 30% to 70%, with three instances where processor judgement indicated storage readiness despite ERH values exceeding the 65% threshold. Dry matter content varied widely across treatments and sites, ranging from 7.4% to 18.3%. Chilies dried on black plastic sheeting showed higher and more consistent dry matter content (median ≈ 11.5%) compared with chillies dried on processor-preferred materials (median ≈ 9.1%). During storage, chilies kept in airtight glass jars maintained stable weights close to the initial 200 g over 70 days (199–201 g). In contrast, those stored in gunny bags showed progressive weight increases, reaching median values of approximately 208.5 g after 70 days. The study demonstrates that while experiential knowledge remains central to smallholder chili processing, it can be strengthened with simple, objective tools that support more reliable drying and storage decisions. Incremental improvements in drying surface selection, combined with ERH-based assessment and moisture-limiting storage, offer practical pathways for reducing post-harvest losses and quality risks. These context-appropriate interventions can enhance the safety, stability, and economic value of dried chilies without requiring costly infrastructure, making them well-suited to smallholder systems in humid environments.

Abstract: The PP2C (protein phosphates 2C) are key regulators of abscisic acid (ABA) signaling that play a crucial role in plant stress responses. In this study, we performed a comprehensive genome-wide analysis and identified 71 DlPP2C genes in Dimocarpus longan which is an economically important fruit crop. The evolutionary analysis revealed that DlPP2C genes were classified into distinct subgroups based on phylogenetic relationships with Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa. Structural analysis demonstrated conserved motif composition and gene organization within subgroups, whereas chromosomal distribution and synteny analysis revealed that segmental duplication events contributed to gene family expansion. Promoter analysis findings identified numerous cis-acting elements related to hormone and stress responsiveness especially abscisic acid-responsive elements (ABREs), suggesting their potential involvement in ABA signaling pathways. Under exogenous ABA treatments, expression profiling of the DlPP2C genes exhibited dynamic, dose and time dependent response with several genes showing peak expression at 10 μM ABA after 16 h, especially the DlPP2C1 displayed a strong transcriptional response, indicating its potential role as a key regulator. Overexpression and GUS staining assays revealed enhanced activity under ABA treatment, further supporting its involvement in ABA-responsive regulation. Moreover, RNA sequencing analysis revealed a total of 1799 differentially expressed genes, with prevalence of downregulated genes, showing extensive transcriptional reprograming. Functional enrichment analysis demonstrated that these genes were largely associated with plant hormone signaling, stress response and metabolic pathways. Together, these findings propose that DlPP2C genes, especially DlPP2C1, play a key role in ABA-mediated regulatory networks and provide valuable insights intro stress adaption mechanisms during early somatic embryogenesis in longan.

Abstract: Soil salinization severely limits the stable production of garlic (Allium sativum L.) and compromises the postharvest storability of seed cloves as industrial planting materials. This study evaluated the morpho-physiological, photosynthetic (JIP-test), and postharvest responses of a shoot-dominant ('C-P') and a root-dominant ('J-L') garlic cultivar to graded salinity (0, 50, 200 mM NaCl) in a hydroponic system, with or without seed-clove priming using a novel commercial biostimulant. Results showed 50 mM NaCl significantly inhibited shoot growth, while 200 mM nearly arrested growth and induced clove decay. Under moderate salinity, LE priming exhibited cultivar-dependent mitigation. In 'C-P', it promoted root branching, enhanced soluble sugar accumulation, and improved postharvest tissue hydration. In 'J-L', biostimulant elevated leaf SPAD values, fully reversed stress-induced clove yellowing, and significantly suppressed postharvest fungal decay during cold storage. In conclusion, garlic's response to salinity is fundamentally dictated by intrinsic resource allocation strategies. Rather than merely promoting growth, biostimulant priming optimizes photosynthetic energy fluxes and reshapes metabolism. This tailored approach effectively preserves the visual marketability of susceptible cultivars while enhancing Osmo protectant accumulation and hydration in vigorous morphotypes, providing a sustainable strategy to safeguard industrial raw materials in salinized controlled cultivation systems.

Abstract:

Background: When branches lack a defined collar, arborists are left without a clear target to guide removal pruning. A common recommendation is to cut at a 45° angle from the branch bark ridge. Cutting perpendicular to the branch axis as an alternative would minimize effective wound size, potentially reducing wood dysfunction in the remaining stem. Methods: A total of 92 Acer rubrum L. ‘Florida Flame’ and 102 Quercus virginiana Mill. ‘Highrise’ branches without visible collars were pruned one of two ways: 1.) removal cut angle 45° from the branch bark ridge (45°) or 2.) removal cut angle perpendicular to the branch axis (perpendicular). Three years later, pruned areas were harvested and assessed for wound closure and internal discoloration and decay, controlling for initial branch diameter, branch-to-parent-stem aspect ratio, sprout growth, and branch height. Results: In live oak, branch size and cut method affected the amount and length of discoloration observed. In red maple, discoloration and decay were largely a function of branch size and aspect ratio (i.e., the relative size difference between the removed branch and parent stem). In both species, cambial dieback was more common with perpendicular removal cuts, often negating any initial benefit associated with the smaller wound. Conclusions: When removing branches without a branch collar, we recommend making 45° cuts. Identifying which branches to remove or retain early in a tree’s life is important to avoid large branch removal cuts later.

Abstract: During phytosanitary monitoring of ornamental conifers conducted across multiple regions of Serbia, two species of spider mite, Eotetranychus libocedri (McGregor, 1936) and Eotetranychus thujae (McGregor, 1950), were recorded for the first time. E. libocedri was found on Platycladus orientalis L. (Franco), Thuja occidentalis L., and Cupressus × leylandii A.B. Jacks & Dallim, while E. thujae was detected on T. occidentalis. These records have extended the distribution area of these two allochthonous species in Europe. Together with previous findings, the number of registered species of the Tetranychidae family in Serbia now totals 47 species across 10 genera.

Abstract:

Myrtus communis L. (common myrtle) is an economically valuable Mediterranean shrub with diverse applications in food, pharmaceutical, and ornamental sectors. However, the biochemical diversity of drought- and salt-resistant genotypes remains insufficiently characterized, particularly regarding the relationship between primary and secondary metabolism and stress adaptation. This study investigated the biochemical and aroma profiles of six drought-resistant myrtle genotypes from natural populations in Antalya, Turkey, to identify chemotypic diversity and elucidate metabolic strategies underlying abiotic stress tolerance. Volatile compounds were analyzed using HS-SPME/GC-MS, while sugars and organic acids were quantified by HPLC. Multivariate statistical analyses (PCA, hierarchical clustering) were employed to evaluate metabolic relationships and genotype classification. Three chemotypes were identified: (i) Eucalyptol-type (G34, G36) with 35-40% 1,8-cineole; (ii) α-Pinene-type (G15, G37) with elevated terpenes (15.7-20.5%) and high sugar content (11.9-12.4 g/100 ml); and (iii) Ester-aldehyde type (G9) characterized by dominant esters (30.4%) and negligible eucalyptol. Significant genotypic variation was observed across metabolite classes (p < 0.001, η² > 0.90). Hierarchical clustering revealed three metabolic strategies: volatile-focused antioxidant defense (Cluster 1), osmotic adjustment with chemical defense (Cluster 2), and specialized stress signaling (Cluster 3). These findings highlight substantial metabolic plasticity and provide a basis for targeted breeding and diverse industrial applications.

Abstract: Plant steroid hormones, namely brassinosteroids (BRs), govern growth and resilience to environmental stress, yet little is known about how BR-signaling kinases (BSKs) operate in non-model horticultural species. Here, we carried out a whole-genome interrogation of the BSK family in Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis and examined its potential involvement in high-temperature stress responses. The search yielded 20 BcBSK members, each featuring a conserved kinase domain at the N-terminus and TPR repeats at the C-terminus. Phylogenetic reconstruction assigned them to separate subgroups, while collinearity assessment detected 16 duplicated gene pairs evolving under strong selection constraints. Upstream regulatory sequences harbored numerous cis-motifs linked to hormonal signals and stress perception. Interactome modeling pinpointed BcBSK2, BcBSK5, BcBSK14, and BcBSK18 as hub components. RNA-seq analysis under elevated temperature (38℃) uncovered distinct expression behaviors between cultivars: in the susceptible line “Aijiaohuang”, BcBSK1 and BcBSK2 transcripts increased sharply, whereas the resistant line “SHI” exhibited little fluctuation. Quantitative PCR results aligned with the RNA-seq findings. Exogenous application of 0.5 mg·L⁻¹ BR improved the activities of catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase, boosted proline levels, lowered malondialdehyde content, and preserved chlorophyll and carotenoid concentrations under heat exposure. Taken together, these data imply that BcBSK family members contribute to BR-facilitated heat adaptation by orchestrating changes at both transcript and metabolite levels, thus laying a groundwork for genetic enhancement of thermotolerance in this vegetable species.

Abstract:

This study evaluated the effects of light spectral quality on shoot yield and essential oil of Tagetes erecta L. cultivated in controlled growth chambers. Plants were grown for up to 101 days under three LED lighting treatments with different red, blue, and white wavelength ratios and a constant 16 h photoperiod. The F2 treatment (5 red­­:1 blue) produced yields of fresh shoots, early blooming flowers, and oils of 271 ± 28 g/tray, 97.43 ± 13.14 g/tray, and 52.46 ± 5.41 mg/tray, respectively. These values were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of the F1 treatment (white:red-phosphor), and represented increases of 1.37-, 1.26-, and 1.38-fold, respectively. Gas chromatography identified three major oil constituents—(E)-β-ocimene (22.9–28.8%), (E)-myroxide (13.9–20.6%), and piperitone (7.3–9.6%)—among a total of 24—25 compounds. Essential oils inhibited from four to five of the seven tested microbial strains, with the notable activity against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans recorded in F2 and F1, respectively. These findings confirm that light spectral quality is a critical factor regulating flower, essential oil yield, and antimicrobial efficacy in T. erecta, and support the use of optimized LED spectra as a practical approach to improve plant’s yield and phytochemical quality.

Abstract:

Strawberry cultivation generates substantial amounts of agricultural by-products, including spent substrates and plant residues, particularly in hydroponic production systems. However, information on the generation scale, disposal practices, and resource utilization potential of these by-products remains limited. This study investigated the generation scale, disposal practices, and chemical characteristics of by-products from hydroponic strawberry cultivation in two major strawberry-producing regions of Korea, Nonsan in Chungcheongnam-do and Jinju in Gyeongsangnam-do. Based on national statistics and field surveys, annual by-product generation was estimated at 605,400 kL of spent substrates and approximately 25,729 t fresh weight and 6,003 t dry weight of plant residues. Disposal practices varied regionally: in Jinju, over 80% of by-products were recycled as compost or feed, whereas in Nonsan, recycling rates were lower and much was untreated or dumped. Analyses of 463 pesticides and seven heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Ni, Pb, As, Cd, Hg) confirmed concentrations below permissible limits, ensuring safety for recycling. Inorganic analyses showed high levels of N, Ca, P, and K, suggesting potential use as alternative fertilizers. Unlike other greenhouse crops that generate residues mainly at harvest, strawberries produce by-products continuously, requiring decentralized and long-term management. These findings highlight the potential of strawberry by-products for resource utilization and their contribution to environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture when supported by pretreatment, monitoring, and integrated management. These results provide the first comprehensive assessment of the generation scale, disposal practices, and chemical safety of strawberry by-products in Korea, demonstrating their potential as alternative nutrient resources for circular agriculture.