Enzyme activity in solid-state fermentation complex added to diets before and after extrusion process and its influence on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) performance were evaluated. The following enzymes were analyzed: b-glucosidase, pectinase, xylanase, endoglucanase, amylase, protease, and phytase. The fish were fed five experimental diets: a control diet (without enzyme), two test diets supplemented before extrusion (400 and 800 ppm SSF), and two test diets after extrusion or “on top” (400 and 800 ppm SSF). The experiment had a completely randomized design with four replicates and seven fish per tank. Average initial weight was 10.37 ± 0.95 g, and fish were fed four times a day to satiation for 56 days. The following performance parameters were evaluated: final weight, weight gain, feed conversion, survival, specific growth rate, and body composition. The results were compared using ANOVA and Tukey’s test at p<0.05. All the enzymes showed partial or total losses of activity when subjected to the extrusion process, except phytase. No differences were observed for survival, water quality parameters, and body composition. On-top inclusion provided a better performance, which is observed through increases in final weight, weight gain, and feed conversion. As a result, 800 ppm of enzyme complex SSF should be added "on top", that is after extrusion, to improve tilapia performance and, consequently, contribute to the fish farming financial efficiency.

RESUMO As atividades das enzimas do complexo enzimático SSF (solid-state fermentation) adicionado à ração antes e após o processo de extrusão e a influência no desempenho de tilápias do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus) foram avaliadas. Foram selecionadas as seguintes enzimas para análise: b-glicosidase, pectinase, xilanase, endoglucanase, amilase, protease e fitase. Os peixes foram submetidos a cinco tratamentos: ração sem adição de enzima, com adição de 400 ppm de SSF antes da extrusão, com 800 ppm de SSF antes da extrusão, 400 ppm de SSF adicionados “on top” após a extrusão e 800 ppm de SSF adicionados “on top” após a extrusão. O experimento teve um delineamento inteiramente casualizado com quatro repetições, contendo sete peixes por aquário. O peso médio inicial foi de 10,37 g ± 0,95, sendo alimentados quatro vezes ao dia, até a saciedade, durante 56 dias. Avaliou-se: peso inicial, peso final, ganho de peso, conversão alimentar, sobrevivência, taxa de crescimento específico e composição corporal. Os resultados foram comparados utilizando-se ANOVA e teste de Tukey a p<0.05. Todas as enzimas perderam atividade enzimática parcial ou total quando submetidas ao processo de extrusão, exceto a fitase. Não foram observadas diferenças entre a sobrevivência, parâmetros de qualidade da água e a composição corporal. A inclusão “on top” proporcionou um melhor rendimento, observado através de melhorias no peso final, ganho de peso e conversão alimentar. Concluiu-se que, 800 ppm de SSF deve ser adicionado "on top", após a extrusão, para proporcionar um melhor desempenho em tilápias, e consequentemente a eficiência financeira da produção. | ABSTRACT Enzyme activity in solid-state fermentation complex added to diets before and after extrusion process and its influence on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) performance were evaluated. The following enzymes were analyzed: b-glucosidase, pectinase, xylanase, endoglucanase, amylase, protease, and phytase. The fish were fed five experimental diets: a control diet (without enzyme), two test diets supplemented before extrusion (400 and 800 ppm SSF), and two test diets after extrusion or “on top” (400 and 800 ppm SSF). The experiment had a completely randomized design with four replicates and seven fish per tank. Average initial weight was 10.37 ± 0.95 g, and fish were fed four times a day to satiation for 56 days. The following performance parameters were evaluated: final weight, weight gain, feed conversion, survival, specific growth rate, and body composition. The results were compared using ANOVA and Tukey’s test at p<0.05. All the enzymes showed partial or total losses of activity when subjected to the extrusion process, except phytase. No differences were observed for survival, water quality parameters, and body composition. On-top inclusion provided a better performance, which is observed through increases in final weight, weight gain, and feed conversion. As a result, 800 ppm of enzyme complex SSF should be added "on top", that is after extrusion, to improve tilapia performance and, consequently, contribute to the fish farming financial efficiency.

Maize is an important cereal and it is widely consumed in the world, both as food for humans and animals. Nitrogen (N) is a nutrient required in large quantities by maize, but unfortunately, soils are limited in meeting this need. Nodulating legumes can serve as a source of Nitrogen, because they are symbiotically associated with bacteria capable of fixing atmospheric N. Another important source of this nutrient is cattle manure, which is widely used in agriculture. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of using legumes and cattle manure on the production as well as the microbial and biochemical quality of the soil used for maize cultivation. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design, in a sub-subdivided plot scheme (2x4) +2, two leguminous plants (pigeon pea and macassar bean), four doses of cattle manure (0, 20, 40 and 60 t ha-1) and two controls; one with mineral fertilization and the other cultivated without the use of fertilizers. Treatment using a manure dose of 60t ha-1 and pigeon pea legume, recorded higher dry mass production per plant. The increase in manure doses was directly proportional to the length and weight of the cobs for the two legumes. The enzymatic activities were affected by the different doses and legumes, with greater results being recorded at the 60 t ha-1 dose with the macassar legume. The use of legumes with manure improved maize production as well as the microbiological and biochemical quality of soils.

ABSTRACT Maize is an important cereal and it is widely consumed in the world, both as food for humans and animals. Nitrogen (N) is a nutrient required in large quantities by maize, but unfortunately, soils are limited in meeting this need. Nodulating legumes can serve as a source of Nitrogen, because they are symbiotically associated with bacteria capable of fixing atmospheric N. Another important source of this nutrient is cattle manure, which is widely used in agriculture. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of using legumes and cattle manure on the production as well as the microbial and biochemical quality of the soil used for maize cultivation. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design, in a sub-subdivided plot scheme [(2x4) +2], two leguminous plants (pigeon pea and macassar bean), four doses of cattle manure (0, 20, 40 and 60 t ha-1) and two controls; one with mineral fertilization and the other cultivated without the use of fertilizers. Treatment using a manure dose of 60t ha-1 and pigeon pea legume, recorded higher dry mass production per plant. The increase in manure doses was directly proportional to the length and weight of the cobs for the two legumes. The enzymatic activities were affected by the different doses and legumes, with greater results being recorded at the 60 t ha-1 dose with the macassar legume. The use of legumes with manure improved maize production as well as the microbiological and biochemical quality of soils. | RESUMO O milho é um importante cereal muito utilizado no mundo, tanto como alimentação para humanos como para animais. O nitrogênio (N) é um nutriente requerido em grande quantidade pelo milho, e os solos são limitantes em atender essa necessidade. As leguminosas nodulantes podem ser utilizadas como fonte de Nitrogênio, por formarem associações simbióticas com bactérias capazes de fixar N atmosférico, outra importante fonte desse nutriente é o esterco bovino, utilizado largamente na agricultura. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o efeito do uso de leguminosas e esterco bovino na produção e qualidade microbiana e bioquímica do solo cultivado com milho. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, em esquema de parcela sub-subdividida [(2x4) +2], sendo duas leguminosas (feijão guandu anão e feijão macassar), quatro doses de esterco bovino (0, 20, 40 e 60 t ha-1), mais dois tratamentos controle um com adubação mineral e outro sem o emprego de adubos. O tratamento utilizando a dose 60 t ha-1 de esterco com a leguminosa Guandu anão apresentou maior produção de massa seca por planta. O aumento das doses de esterco foi diretamente proporcional ao comprimento e peso das espigas para as duas leguminosas. As atividades enzimáticas responderam às diferentes doses e leguminosas, com maiores resultados na dose de 60 t ha-1 com a leguminosa macassar. O uso de leguminosa com esterco melhorou a produção de milho e a qualidade microbiológica e bioquímica dos solos.

Grape orchards are highly affected by oviposition of fruit flies on grape berries, which compromises the productivity and quality of the grapes. The goal of this study was to evaluate the susceptibility of American, European, and hybrid grape genotypes to Anastrepha fraterculus and Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) under laboratory conditions (25 ± 2ºC, 60 ± 10% RH, and 14-hour photophase). The assays were conducted by evaluating oviposition preference through choice and no-choice (antibiosis) tests. The choice test was set up using circular arenas (diameter: 300 mm) with 10 grapes per genotype. The no-choice test was set up using 150 grapes per genotype which were placed inside plastic boxes (417 x 297 x 289 mm). After exposure of the grapes to one or two couples of fruit flies per genotype in choice and no-choice tests, respectively, the grapes were transferred to transparent plastic containers (750 mL). The number of eggs per grape and its viability were evaluated. The no-choice test also evaluated the biological cycle of the fruit flies. The assays were conducted in a completely randomized design with 15 replicates. The most preferred grapes for oviposition by A. fraterculus were Cabernet Sauvignon, Niagara Rosada, and BRS Cora, while C. capitata mainly preferred Isabel Precoce grapes. We observed the complete development of fruit flies in the Moscato Embrapa grapes, but this only occurred with C. capitata. All genotypes evaluated were considered susceptible to A. fraterculus and C. capitata. However, the fruit flies expressed differences in preference for oviposition and host quality.

ABSTRACT Grape orchards are highly affected by oviposition of fruit flies on grape berries, which compromises the productivity and quality of the grapes. The goal of this study was to evaluate the susceptibility of American, European, and hybrid grape genotypes to Anastrepha fraterculus and Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) under laboratory conditions (25 ± 2ºC, 60 ± 10% RH, and 14-hour photophase). The assays were conducted by evaluating oviposition preference through choice and no-choice (antibiosis) tests. The choice test was set up using circular arenas (diameter: 300 mm) with 10 grapes per genotype. The no-choice test was set up using 150 grapes per genotype which were placed inside plastic boxes (417 x 297 x 289 mm). After exposure of the grapes to one or two couples of fruit flies per genotype in choice and no-choice tests, respectively, the grapes were transferred to transparent plastic containers (750 mL). The number of eggs per grape and its viability were evaluated. The no-choice test also evaluated the biological cycle of the fruit flies. The assays were conducted in a completely randomized design with 15 replicates. The most preferred grapes for oviposition by A. fraterculus were Cabernet Sauvignon, Niagara Rosada, and BRS Cora, while C. capitata mainly preferred Isabel Precoce grapes. We observed the complete development of fruit flies in the Moscato Embrapa grapes, but this only occurred with C. capitata. All genotypes evaluated were considered susceptible to A. fraterculus and C. capitata. However, the fruit flies expressed differences in preference for oviposition and host quality. | RESUMO No cultivo da videira a oviposição das moscas-das-frutas compromete a produtividade e a qualidade de bagas de uva. O objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar a suscetibilidade de genótipos de uvas americanas, europeias e híbridas à Anastrepha fraterculus e Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) em laboratório (25 ± 2ºC, 60±10% UR e fotofase de 14 horas) por meio de ensaios de preferência de oviposição com e sem chance de escolha (antibiose). No ensaio com chance de escolha foram utilizadas arenas circulares (300 mm de diâmetro) com 10 bagas por genótipo de uva. No teste sem chance de escolha foram utilizadas 150 bagas por genótipo de uva acondicionadas em caixa plástica (417 x 297 x 289 mm). Após a exposição a um ou a dois casais de moscas-das-frutas, por genótipo de uva nos testes com e sem chance de escolha, respectivamente, as bagas foram transferidas para potes plásticos transparentes (750 mL). Nos ensaios foram avaliados o número de ovos por baga e sua viabilidade. No ensaio sem chance de escolha também foi avaliado o ciclo biológico das moscas-das-frutas (teste de antibiose). Os experimentos foram conduzidos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com 15 repetições. As bagas de uvas preferidas para oviposição por A. fraterculus foram Cabernet Sauvignon, Niágara Rosada e BRS Cora. Para C. capitata foi a Isabel Precoce. No genótipo Moscato Embrapa foi observado o desenvolvimento de ovo-adulto apenas de C. capitata. Assim, todos os genótipos foram considerados suscetíveis à A. fraterculus e C. capitata. No entanto, expressam diferenças na preferência para oviposição e na qualidade hospedeira para A. fraterculus e C. capitata.

Biochar is a solid material formed during biomass thermochemical decomposition processes. This organic compound has particular properties that may cause effects on soils depending on its feedstock and processing conditions. Thus, the characteristics and purpose of use of this material must be recognized prior to its use. Two types of biochar, derived from different wood sources, were compared, one from caatinga biome species and another from cashew trees. Two species from caatinga biome were used, jurema-preta (Mimosa tenuiflora Willd. Poir.), and marmeleiro (Croton sonderianus Müll. Arg.). This study aimed to identify the best biochar material regionally available to increase water-holding capacity in the soil, based on laboratory tests and microstructural porosity evaluation. Biochar from Caatinga wood demonstrated an improved water-holding capacity if compared to cashew wood biochar. The particle diameters of 2 and 4 mm showed the highest levels, which were 2,268 g.g-1 for caatinga wood and 0.574 g.g-1 for cashew wood biochars, respectively. While the smaller quantities of macropores and a larger number of micropores (smaller radius) could explain the higher water-holding capacity for biochar from caatinga wood, the thick lignified cell walls of biochar from cashew wood support the idea of a hydrophobic effect contributing to water lower holding capacity.

ABSTRACT Biochar is a solid material formed during biomass thermochemical decomposition processes. This organic compound has particular properties that may cause effects on soils depending on its feedstock and processing conditions. Thus, the characteristics and purpose of use of this material must be recognized prior to its use. Two types of biochar, derived from different wood sources, were compared, one from caatinga biome species and another from cashew trees. Two species from caatinga biome were used, jurema-preta (Mimosa tenuiflora Willd. Poir.), and marmeleiro (Croton sonderianus Müll. Arg.). This study aimed to identify the best biochar material regionally available to increase water-holding capacity in the soil, based on laboratory tests and microstructural porosity evaluation. Biochar from Caatinga wood demonstrated an improved water-holding capacity if compared to cashew wood biochar. The particle diameters of 2 and 4 mm showed the highest levels, which were 2,268 g.g-1 for caatinga wood and 0.574 g.g-1 for cashew wood biochars, respectively. While the smaller quantities of macropores and a larger number of micropores (smaller radius) could explain the higher water-holding capacity for biochar from caatinga wood, the thick lignified cell walls of biochar from cashew wood support the idea of a hydrophobic effect contributing to water lower holding capacity. | RESUMO Biocarvão é o material sólido formado durante a decomposição termoquímica da biomassa. Suas propriedades e efeitos no solo variam amplamente com o material de origem e condições de precessamento. Desta forma, é reconhecida a importância de sua caracterização e desempenho para o que se propõe, antes do uso. Foram comparados dois tipos de biochar, de acordo com o material de origem, espécies do bioma Caatinga, Jurema-Preta (Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir. associada com Marmeleiro (Croton sonderianus Müll.) Arg. e lenha de cajueiro (Annacardium occidentale L.). O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar biocarvão com melhor desempenho de promover o aumento da capacidade de retenção de água no solo, com base em evidências de laboratório e avaliação de porosidade microestructural. O biocarvão oriundo das espécies da Caatinga demonstrou maior capacidade de retenção de água quando comparado com o biocarvão de lenha de cajueiro, para todos os diâmetros avaliados. Com relação ao tamanho de partículas, níveis maiores de retenção de água foram observados aos 2 mm e 4 mm, 2,268 g g-1 para o biocarvão de madeira das espécies da Caatinga e 0,574 g g-1 para o biocarvão de madeira de cajueiro, respectivamente. Menores quantidades de macroporos e maior número de microporos (raio menor) foram observados no biocarvão de madeira das espécies da Caatinga, provavelmente relacionado à mais alta capacidade de retenção de água, enquanto densamente lignificadas, as paredes celulares de madeira de cajueiro, sustenta a ideia de que um efeito hidrofóbico pode contribuir para sua menor capacidade de retenção hídrica.

The semi-arid region of Northeast Brazil is vulnerable to problems of water scarcity and salinity, resulting in low-quality irrigation water and the need to adopt cultivation strategies that make the production system viable. Given the above, this study aimed to evaluate emergence, growth, and production of colored cotton subjected to increasing levels of irrigation water salinity and organic matter doses. The experiment was carried out in a eutrophic Regolithic Neosol with a sandy loam texture in a greenhouse in the municipality of Campina Grande - PB, Brazil. A randomized block design was used in a 4 x 4 factorial scheme with three replicates, and the treatments corresponded to four levels of electrical conductivity of water - ECw (1.7, 3.4, 5.1, and 6.8 dS m-1) and four doses of organic matter - OM (0, 2.5, 3.5, and 4.5% based on soil volume). Increasing irrigation water salinity with ECw values above 1.7 dS m-1 reduced emergence, growth, and production of colored cotton, and the cotton seed weight was the variable most affected by salinity. Organic matter addition led to increased cotton growth and production, especially in terms of seed weight. Increasing doses of organic matter attenuated the effect of irrigation water salinity on the number of bolls in ‘BRS Jady’ cotton.

ABSTRACT The semi-arid region of Northeast Brazil is vulnerable to problems of water scarcity and salinity, resulting in low-quality irrigation water and the need to adopt cultivation strategies that make the production system viable. Given the above, this study aimed to evaluate emergence, growth, and production of colored cotton subjected to increasing levels of irrigation water salinity and organic matter doses. The experiment was carried out in a eutrophic Regolithic Neosol with a sandy loam texture in a greenhouse in the municipality of Campina Grande - PB, Brazil. A randomized block design was used in a 4 x 4 factorial scheme with three replicates, and the treatments corresponded to four levels of electrical conductivity of water - ECw (1.7, 3.4, 5.1, and 6.8 dS m-1) and four doses of organic matter - OM (0, 2.5, 3.5, and 4.5% based on soil volume). Increasing irrigation water salinity with ECw values above 1.7 dS m-1 reduced emergence, growth, and production of colored cotton, and the cotton seed weight was the variable most affected by salinity. Organic matter addition led to increased cotton growth and production, especially in terms of seed weight. Increasing doses of organic matter attenuated the effect of irrigation water salinity on the number of bolls in ‘BRS Jady’ cotton. | RESUMO A região semiárida do Nordeste Brasileiro é vulnerável aos problemas de escassez hídrica e salinidade, o que faz com que a maioria das águas utilizadas para irrigação nem sempre apresente boa qualidade, sendo necessária a adoção de estratégias de cultivo que viabilizem o sistema de produção. Diante do exposto, objetivou-se avaliar a emergência, o crescimento e a produção do algodoeiro de fibra colorida submetido a níveis crescentes de salinidade da água de irrigação e doses de matéria orgânica. O experimento foi conduzido em um Neossolo Regolítico Eutrófico de textura franco-arenosa em casa de vegetação no município de Campina Grande - PB. Utilizaram-se o delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 4 x 4, com três repetições, sendo os tratamentos compostos de quatro níveis de condutividade elétrica da água - CEa (1,7; 3,4; 5,1 e 6,8 dS m-1) e quatro doses de matéria orgânica - MO (0; 2,5; 3,5 e 4,5% em base do volume de solo).O aumento da salinidade da água de irrigação com CEa superior a 1,7 dS m-1 reduziu a emergência, o crescimento e a produção do algodoeiro colorido, sendo a massa de algodão em caroço a variável mais afetada. A adição de matéria orgânica promoveu acréscimos no crescimento e produção do algodoeiro, especialmente na massa de algodão em caroço. Doses crescentes de matéria orgânica atenuaram o efeito da salinidade da água de irrigação sobre o número de capulhos do algodoeiro ‘BRS Jady’.

The use of landfill leachate (LL) to produce biomass for energy and biofuel purposes is an alternative that minimizes environmental degradation. In this context, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of using different rates of LL in the fertigation of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) crops. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with five treatments and four replications-20 experimental plots. The treatments consisted of control with 100% water from the water supply (WWS) (T1); 80% WWS + 20% LL (T2); 60% WWS + 40% LL (T3); 40% WWS + 60% LL (T4); and 20% WWS + 80% LL (T5). The sunflower crops were grown in a eutrophic Red-Yellow Argisol for 81 days, in Mossoró RN, Brazil. The plant characteristics evaluated-plant height, number of leaves, steam diameter and capitulum diameter-was determined. All variables evaluated presented statistical differences between treatments. In general, plants in the treatment 60% WWS + 40% LL presented better performance regarding the characteristics evaluated.

RESUMO O uso do percolado de aterro sanitário (PATS) na produção de biomassa para fins energético e biocombustível é uma alternativa que minimiza a degradação ambiental. Neste contexto, objetivou-se neste trabalho, analisar o efeito da aplicação de distintas proporções de percolado de aterros sanitários no cultivo de girassol (Helianthus annuus L.). O experimento foi conduzido com delineamento em blocos casualizados, com cinco tratamentos T1 - 100 % de água da rede de abastecimento - AA (Testemunha); T2 - 80 % de AA e 20 % de PATS; T3 - 60 % de AA e 40 % de PATS; T4 - 40 % de AA e 60 % de PATS; e, T5 - 20 % de AA e 80 % de PATS, e quatro repetições, totalizando 20 parcelas experimentais. O girassol foi cultivado em ARGISSOLO Vermelho - Amarelo eutrófico, durante 81 dias em Mossoró/RN. Durante o ciclo do girassol foram determinadas as características vegetativas altura de planta (AP), número de folhas (NF), diâmetro do caule (DCaule) e do capítulo (DCapítulo). Comprovou-se que para todas as variáveis estudadas houve diferença estatística entre os tratamentos. Em geral, o tratamento 60 % de AA e 40 % de PATS apresentou melhor desempenho com relação às características vegetativas do girassol. | ABSTRACT The use of landfill leachate (LL) to produce biomass for energy and biofuel purposes is an alternative that minimizes environmental degradation. In this context, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of using different rates of LL in the fertigation of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) crops. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with five treatments and four replications-20 experimental plots. The treatments consisted of control with 100% water from the water supply (WWS) (T1); 80% WWS + 20% LL (T2); 60% WWS + 40% LL (T3); 40% WWS + 60% LL (T4); and 20% WWS + 80% LL (T5). The sunflower crops were grown in a eutrophic Red-Yellow Argisol for 81 days, in Mossoró RN, Brazil. The plant characteristics evaluated-plant height, number of leaves, steam diameter and capitulum diameter-was determined. All variables evaluated presented statistical differences between treatments. In general, plants in the treatment 60% WWS + 40% LL presented better performance regarding the characteristics evaluated.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the root of vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Robert) on the soil Resistance to penetration (RP) in the margins of the lower São Francisco River. Vetiver grass seedlings were planted on the riverbank margins in order to increase soil resistance to erosion processes, and RP assessments were made at soil depths of 0-0.20, 0.20-0.40, and 0.40-0.60 m in different situations (near the plants and within rows). RP data was obtained using an automated penetrometer. Gravimetric moisture data was also collected, as well as particle size data by densimetry, and root density data by the monolith method. The results of the RP, moisture, and root density studies were subjected to analysis of variance (p <0.05) and then the averages were compared by the Tukey test using SISVAR software. The samples next to the vetiver grass showed an average RP of 1793.94 kPa and an average moisture content of 11.78%, statistically differing from that of the sampled points within rows. RP and soil moisture did not differ statistically at the depth assessed. The vetiver grass produced an adequate ground cover, leading to higher water retention and hence a reduced resistance to penetration.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the root of vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Robert) on the soil Resistance to penetration (RP) in the margins of the lower São Francisco River. Vetiver grass seedlings were planted on the riverbank margins in order to increase soil resistance to erosion processes, and RP assessments were made at soil depths of 0-0.20, 0.20-0.40, and 0.40-0.60 m in different situations (near the plants and within rows). RP data was obtained using an automated penetrometer. Gravimetric moisture data was also collected, as well as particle size data by densimetry, and root density data by the monolith method. The results of the RP, moisture, and root density studies were subjected to analysis of variance (p <0.05) and then the averages were compared by the Tukey test using SISVAR software. The samples next to the vetiver grass showed an average RP of 1793.94 kPa and an average moisture content of 11.78%, statistically differing from that of the sampled points within rows. RP and soil moisture did not differ statistically at the depth assessed. The vetiver grass produced an adequate ground cover, leading to higher water retention and hence a reduced resistance to penetration. | RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da raiz de capim vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Robert) sobre a resistência à penetração (RP) das margens do Baixo São Francisco. Mudas de vetiver foram plantadas no talude do rio, a fim de aumentar a resistência do solo aos processos erosivos, com avaliações de Resistência à Penetração (RP) realizadas em profundidades de 0 a 0,20, 0,20 a 0,40, e 0,40-0,60 m em diferentes situações (próximo à planta e, nas entre linhas). Dados de RP foram obtidos utilizando um penetrômetro automatizado. Amostras de solo foram coletadas para a determinação da umidade assim como da textura do solo, que foi determinada por densimetria, a densidade das raízes pelo método monólito. Os resultados do RP, umidade, e estudos de densidade de raiz foram submetidos a análise de variância (p <0,05) e, em seguida, as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey utilizando o software SISVAR. As amostras próximas ao vetiver apresentaram uma RP média de 1793,94 kPa e umidade média de 11,78%, diferindo estatisticamente dos pontos amostrados nas entrelinhas. RP e umidade do solo não diferiram estatisticamente com a profundidade do solo. O capim vetiver produziu uma cobertura do solo adequada, levando a uma maior retenção de água e, consequentemente, uma redução da resistência à penetração.

Brackish waters represent great potential for profitable agricultural production; however, productive usage depends on the adoption of proper cultural practices as well as a culture tolerant of salinity, which can require some restrictions related to soil and crop production. Given the lack of information pertaining to hydroponic melon culture, the objective of this study was to investigate physiological changes promoted by the use of brackish water in the preparation of the nutrient solution for melon (Cucumis melo L., cv. AF 015) growth in coconut fiber substrate under greenhouse conditions in Mossoró-RN, a semiarid region of Brazil. The experimental design was completely randomized, with 12 treatments arranged in a 4 x 3 factorial scheme, with 4 salt concentration levels (1.1 - control, 2.5, 4.0 and 5.5 dS m-1) and 3 exposition times (vegetative growth: 10-30 days after transplanting, DAT; flowering: 31 to 50 DAT; and fruiting and ripening: 51-70 DAT, which are the assessment phases of physiological maturation). Increasing salt concentrations in the nutrient solution reduced photosynthetic efficiency, stomatal conductance and transpiration, but increased the intercellular CO2 concentration in melon plants. A salt concentration in the low to intermediate range (2.5 dS m-1) resulted in the best water use efficiency by melon crops.

RESUMO A água salobra pode representar um grande potencial para a produção agrícola rentável, com base na adoção de práticas culturais adequadas e tolerância das culturas à salinidade, contrapondo aos problemas produtivos e de solo que normalmente ocasionam. Devido à escassez de informações sobre o cultivo hidropônico de melão, o presente estudo teve o objetivo de investigar as alterações fisiológicas provocadas pelo uso de água salobra no preparo da solução nutritiva para o cultivo de melão (Cucumis melo L., cv. AF 015) em ambiente protegido e em substrato de fibra de coco, em Mossoró-RN, região semiárido do Brasil. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, com 12 tratamentos arranjados em esquema fatorial 4 x 3, sendo 4 níveis de concentração de sais (1,1 dS m-1 - controle, 2,5, 4,0 e 5,5 dS m-1) e 3 fases de desenvolvimento (vegetativo: 10-30 dias após o transplantio, DAT; floração: 31-50 DAT e frutificação: 51-70 DAT, que representam as fases de avaliação da maturação fisiológica) com três repetições. O aumento da concentração de sal da solução nutritiva reduziu a eficiência da fotossíntese, da condutância estomática e da transpiração e aumentou a concentração intracelular de CO2 em plantas de melão. A melhor eficiência do uso da água pela cultura do melão cultivada em fibra de coco foi alcançada na solução nutritiva com concentração de 2.5 dS m-1. | ABSTRACT Brackish waters represent great potential for profitable agricultural production; however, productive usage depends on the adoption of proper cultural practices as well as a culture tolerant of salinity, which can require some restrictions related to soil and crop production. Given the lack of information pertaining to hydroponic melon culture, the objective of this study was to investigate physiological changes promoted by the use of brackish water in the preparation of the nutrient solution for melon (Cucumis melo L., cv. AF 015) growth in coconut fiber substrate under greenhouse conditions in Mossoró-RN, a semiarid region of Brazil. The experimental design was completely randomized, with 12 treatments arranged in a 4 x 3 factorial scheme, with 4 salt concentration levels (1.1 - control, 2.5, 4.0 and 5.5 dS m-1) and 3 exposition times (vegetative growth: 10-30 days after transplanting, DAT; flowering: 31 to 50 DAT; and fruiting and ripening: 51-70 DAT, which are the assessment phases of physiological maturation). Increasing salt concentrations in the nutrient solution reduced photosynthetic efficiency, stomatal conductance and transpiration, but increased the intercellular CO2 concentration in melon plants. A salt concentration in the low to intermediate range (2.5 dS m-1) resulted in the best water use efficiency by melon crops.

The genetic variability within the crop species Ipomoea batatas is broad, hence, in order to support future breeding programs it is of the utmost importance that germplasm banks be created, conserved, and characterized. Therefore, the objective of this work was to rescue and evaluate the genetic divergence in sweet potato accessions collected in traditional communities of Vale do Ribeira Paulista. Sweet potato samples were collected from quilombos, indigenous villages, caiçaras communities, and small farms. The study was conducted between February 2013 and August 2014 in a randomized block design with three replications. Genetic material included 95 collected accessions and two commercial cultivars. Morphological characteristics of the accessions were evaluated and distances in the genetic distance matrix were estimated by means of multi-category variables, the data being subsequently clustered by the Tocher method. Analysis of the relative contribution of each characteristic and phenotypic correlation of descriptors was also performed. Results evidenced wide genetic diversity among the sweet potato accessions collected in Vale do Ribeira, which were not grouped according to the collection point. The descriptors that contributed more than 60% of genetic diversity included: leaf size, general leaf profile, immature leaf color, petiole pigmentation, predominant branch color, branch secondary color, stem length, cortical thickness, predominant periderm color, and periderm color intensity. Correlations between morphological descriptors was observed in 22.26% of the paired traits.

ABSTRACT The genetic variability within the crop species Ipomoea batatas is broad, hence, in order to support future breeding programs it is of the utmost importance that germplasm banks be created, conserved, and characterized. Therefore, the objective of this work was to rescue and evaluate the genetic divergence in sweet potato accessions collected in traditional communities of Vale do Ribeira Paulista. Sweet potato samples were collected from quilombos, indigenous villages, caiçaras communities, and small farms. The study was conducted between February 2013 and August 2014 in a randomized block design with three replications. Genetic material included 95 collected accessions and two commercial cultivars. Morphological characteristics of the accessions were evaluated and distances in the genetic distance matrix were estimated by means of multi-category variables, the data being subsequently clustered by the Tocher method. Analysis of the relative contribution of each characteristic and phenotypic correlation of descriptors was also performed. Results evidenced wide genetic diversity among the sweet potato accessions collected in Vale do Ribeira, which were not grouped according to the collection point. The descriptors that contributed more than 60% of genetic diversity included: leaf size, general leaf profile, immature leaf color, petiole pigmentation, predominant branch color, branch secondary color, stem length, cortical thickness, predominant periderm color, and periderm color intensity. Correlations between morphological descriptors was observed in 22.26% of the paired traits. | RESUMO A variabilidade genética existente dentro da espécie Ipomoea batatas é amplo, assim, visando dar suporte a futuros programa de melhoramento genético da espécies é de suma importância que bancos de germoplasma sejam formados, conservados e caracterizados. Desta forma, objetivou com este trabalho resgatar e avaliar a divergência genética em acessos coletados em comunidades tradicionais do Vale do Ribeira Paulista. A condução do estudo foi realizada em campo da Fazenda da UNESP-Registro entre fevereiro/2013 a agosto/2014. O experimento foi conduzido em blocos casualizados, com 95 acessos coletados e duas cultivares comerciais, com três repetições. Foram avaliadas características morfológicas da parte aérea e da raiz dos acessos segundo a metodologia de Huamán. A estimativa da matriz da distância genética foi realizada por meio das variáveis multicategoricas, sendo posteriormente os dados agrupados pelo método de Tocher. Também realizou-se análise da contribuição relativa de cada característica e correlação fenotípica dos descritores. De acordo com os resultados, pode-se concluir que há ampla diversidade genética entre os acessos de batata-doce coletados no Vale do Ribeira; os acessos não agruparam em função do ponto de coleta; os descritores que contribuíram com mais de 60% da divergência genética foram o tamanho da folha, perfil geral da folha, cor da folha imatura, pigmentação do pecíolo, coloração predominante das ramas, cor secundária das ramas, comprimento da haste, espessura do córtex, cor predominante da periderme e intensidade da cor da periderme; A correlação entre os descritores morfológicos foi verificada em 22,26% dos pares.