Soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) is an important tool for water management in irrigated agriculture. However, factors such as texture and structure of soils influence SWCC behavior. According to the literature, wetting and drying cycles alter SWCC. A similar process of re-saturation and drying occurs during SWCC obtainment under laboratory conditions. Based on the hypothesis that re-saturation process alters SWCC due to clay loss in the sample, this study aimed to obtain the SWCC, S index, and pore size distribution from samples submitted to re-saturation cycles, as well as from not re-saturated samples but under higher matric potentials (-2, -4, -6, -8, and -10 kPa). For this, disturbed and undisturbed soil samples, collected from the A (sandy texture) and Btg (sandy clay loam texture) horizons of a Argissolo Acizentado, were used. After obtaining SWCC, each air-dried soil sample was submitted to particle size and clay dispersed in water analyses to verify whether the soil lost clay. The experimental design was a completely randomized design with two methods of SWCC constructing (with and without re-saturation) and eight replications. The re-saturation process generates a loss of clay in the sample, not causing significant changes in SWCC considering the assessed textural soil classes. In addition, sandy soil samples are more sensitive to changes in pore size distribution when submitted to re-saturation.

RESUMO A curva característica de água no solo (CCAS) constitui importante ferramenta no manejo da água na agricultura irrigada. Entretanto, vale ressaltar que fatores como textura e estrutura do solo influenciam seu comportamento.Há informações na literatura que ciclos de umedecimento e secagem alteram a CCAS. Saliente-se que processo similar, de ressaturação e secagem, ocorre durante a obtenção da CCAS em laboratório. Tendo como hipótese que o processo de ressaturação, por provocar perda de argila na amostra, altera a CCAS, objetivou-se obter a CCAS, o índice S e a distribuição dos poros por tamanho a partir de amostras submetidas a ciclos de ressaturação em oposição àquelas não sujeitas a este processo em maiores potenciais mátricos (-2, -4, -6, -8 e -10 kPa). Para tanto, utilizaram-se amostras com estrutura deformada e indeformada, coletadas do horizonte A (textura arenosa) e Btg (textura franco argilo-arenosa) de um Argissolo Acinzentado. Após a obtenção da CCAS, cada amostra foi levada à condição de terra fina seca ao ar e submetida à análise granulométrica e de argila dispersa em água para verificar se houve perda de argila. O delineamento estatístico foi o inteiramente casualizado, com dois métodos de construção da CCAS - com e sem ressaturação - e oito repetições. Concluiu-se que o processo de ressaturação gera perda de argila na amostra, mas não provoca alterações significativas na CCAS nas classes texturais avaliadas; e que as amostras de solo de textura arenosa são mais sensíveis a alterações na distribuição de poros por tamanho quando submetidas à ressaturação. | ABSTRACT Soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) is an important tool for water management in irrigated agriculture. However, factors such as texture and structure of soils influence SWCC behavior. According to the literature, wetting and drying cycles alter SWCC. A similar process of re-saturation and drying occurs during SWCC obtainment under laboratory conditions. Based on the hypothesis that re-saturation process alters SWCC due to clay loss in the sample, this study aimed to obtain the SWCC, S index, and pore size distribution from samples submitted to re-saturation cycles, as well as from not re-saturated samples but under higher matric potentials (-2, -4, -6, -8, and -10 kPa). For this, disturbed and undisturbed soil samples, collected from the A (sandy texture) and Btg (sandy clay loam texture) horizons of a Argissolo Acizentado, were used. After obtaining SWCC, each air-dried soil sample was submitted to particle size and clay dispersed in water analyses to verify whether the soil lost clay. The experimental design was a completely randomized design with two methods of SWCC constructing (with and without re-saturation) and eight replications. The re-saturation process generates a loss of clay in the sample, not causing significant changes in SWCC considering the assessed textural soil classes. In addition, sandy soil samples are more sensitive to changes in pore size distribution when submitted to re-saturation.

Sesame is a plant with high morphological and physiological complexity, with great variability in growth habit. Quantitative growth analysis is an accessible and accurate tool for evaluating plant development and the contribution of different physiological processes to plant performance. In view of this, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the growth of sesame cultivars in two cropping seasons in the conditions of Mossoró-RN. Two experiments were conducted in Horta Didactics of UFERSA. The experimental delineation in each time was a randomized complete block design with four replications. The treatments were arranged in split plots where each experimental plot contained different sesame cultivars, CNPA G2, CNPA G3 and CNPA G4, and the subplots represented seven collection times, 21, 35, 49, 63, 77, 91 and 105 days after sowing (DAS). The growth of the sesame cultivars was slow at the beginning of the crop cycle, intensifying at the beginning of flowering (after 35 DAS). Among the physiological indexes studied, CNPA G4 cultivar was more efficient in relation to growth and varied depending on the cropping season.

RESUMO O gergelim é uma cultura de elevada complexidade morfofisiológica, com grande variabilidade no hábito de crescimento. A análise quantitativa do crescimento é uma ferramenta acessível e precisa para avaliar o desenvolvimento vegetal e a contribuição de diferentes processos fisiológicos sobre o seu desempenho. Nesse sentido, objetivou-se avaliar o crescimento de cultivares de gergelim em duas épocas de cultivo nas condições de Mossoró-RN. Foram instalados dois experimentos na Horta Didática da UFERSA. O delineamento experimental em cada época foi em blocos casualizados completos, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram dispostos em parcelas subdivididas, onde as parcelas foram representadas pelas cultivares de gergelim: CNPA G2, CNPA G3 e CNPA G4 e as subparcelas consistiram das épocas de coletas (21; 35; 49; 63; 77; 91 e 105 DAS). O crescimento das cultivares de gergelim é lento no início do ciclo vegetativo da cultura, se intensificando no início do florescimento (após os 35 DAS). Entre os índices fisiológicos estudados, a cultivar CNPA G4 apresenta ser mais eficiente em relação ao crescimento, podendo ser variado dependendo da época de cultivo. | ABSTRACT Sesame is a plant with high morphological and physiological complexity, with great variability in growth habit. Quantitative growth analysis is an accessible and accurate tool for evaluating plant development and the contribution of different physiological processes to plant performance. In view of this, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the growth of sesame cultivars in two cropping seasons in the conditions of Mossoró-RN. Two experiments were conducted in Horta Didactics of UFERSA. The experimental delineation in each time was a randomized complete block design with four replications. The treatments were arranged in split plots where each experimental plot contained different sesame cultivars, CNPA G2, CNPA G3 and CNPA G4, and the subplots represented seven collection times, 21, 35, 49, 63, 77, 91 and 105 days after sowing (DAS). The growth of the sesame cultivars was slow at the beginning of the crop cycle, intensifying at the beginning of flowering (after 35 DAS). Among the physiological indexes studied, CNPA G4 cultivar was more efficient in relation to growth and varied depending on the cropping season.

The low use of technologies by farmers and the occurrence of biotic and abiotic stresses are limiting factors for cowpea production in the Brazilian Northeast region. The tolerance of genotypes to drought is an alternative to decrease the negative effects of stresses on cowpea production. Thus, the objective of this work was to identify parents and combinations of cowpea genotypes with high probability of generating segregating populations with tolerance to drought. Six cowpea genotypes were crossed in a complete diallel cross design, totaling 30 F2 populations, which were evaluated together with their parents in an experiment under water deficit at the experimental field of the Embrapa Mid-North, Teresina, State of Piauí, Brazil. A triple lattice incomplete block experiment design was used, with three replications, with experimental plot consisting of six 2-m plant rows. Fifteen plants per plot were sampled to evaluate their agronomic characteristics, whose results were subjected to analysis of variance and means were used to estimate the general and specific combining abilities. The genotypes showed significant differences in all characteristics evaluated, denoting the genetic variability of the population. The additive effects were more important than the non-additive effects, and maternal inheritance was detected. The genotypes BRS Xiquexique, Pingo-de-Ouro-1-2 and MNC99-510F-16-1 were the most promising for use in recurrent selection programs for tolerance to water deficit. The hybrid combinations (1) BRS Paraguaçu X (4) CNCx-698-128G, (2) Pingo-de-Ouro-1-2 X (3) BRS Xiquexique, (3) BRS Xiquexique X (5) Santo-Inácio, (4) CNCx-698-128G X (6) MNC99-510F-16-1 and (5) Santo-Inácio X (4) CNCx-698-128G showed potential for generating superior lineages regarding bean production and tolerance to water deficit.

ABSTRACT The low use of technologies by farmers and the occurrence of biotic and abiotic stresses are limiting factors for cowpea production in the Brazilian Northeast region. The tolerance of genotypes to drought is an alternative to decrease the negative effects of stresses on cowpea production. Thus, the objective of this work was to identify parents and combinations of cowpea genotypes with high probability of generating segregating populations with tolerance to drought. Six cowpea genotypes were crossed in a complete diallel cross design, totaling 30 F2 populations, which were evaluated together with their parents in an experiment under water deficit at the experimental field of the Embrapa Mid-North, Teresina, State of Piauí, Brazil. A triple lattice incomplete block experiment design was used, with three replications, with experimental plot consisting of six 2-m plant rows. Fifteen plants per plot were sampled to evaluate their agronomic characteristics, whose results were subjected to analysis of variance and means were used to estimate the general and specific combining abilities. The genotypes showed significant differences in all characteristics evaluated, denoting the genetic variability of the population. The additive effects were more important than the non-additive effects, and maternal inheritance was detected. The genotypes BRS Xiquexique, Pingo-de-Ouro-1-2 and MNC99-510F-16-1 were the most promising for use in recurrent selection programs for tolerance to water deficit. The hybrid combinations (1) BRS Paraguaçu X (4) CNCx-698-128G, (2) Pingo-de-Ouro-1-2 X (3) BRS Xiquexique, (3) BRS Xiquexique X (5) Santo-Inácio, (4) CNCx-698-128G X (6) MNC99-510F-16-1 and (5) Santo-Inácio X (4) CNCx-698-128G showed potential for generating superior lineages regarding bean production and tolerance to water deficit. | RESUMO A baixa adoção de tecnologias pelos agricultores e a ocorrência de estresses bióticos e abióticos são fatores que limitam a produção do feijão-caupi na região Nordeste do Brasil. A tolerância de genótipos à seca é uma das formas para diminuir os efeitos negativos dos estresses sobre a produtividade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar genitores e combinações promissoras com maior probabilidade de gerarem populações segregantes de feijão-caupi tolerantes à seca. Foi realizado um dialelo completo envolvendo seis genótipos de feijão-caupi, totalizando 30 populações F2, que foram avaliadas, juntamente com seus genitores, em um ensaio sob déficit hídrico, no campo experimental da Embrapa Meio-Norte, em Teresina-PI. Utilizou-se o delineamento experimental látice triplo, com parcela de 6 linhas de 2 m, sendo amostradas 15 plantas por parcela. Foram avaliados caracteres agronômicos e submetidos à análise de variância e, utilizando-se das médias, obtiveram-se as estimativas de capacidade geral e específica de combinação. Observou-se diferenças significativas para todos os caracteres, evidenciando a existência de variabilidade genética na população. Os efeitos aditivos foram mais importantes que os efeitos não aditivos, sendo também constatada a presença de herança materna. Os genótipos BRS Xiquexique, Pingo de Ouro-1-2 e MNC99- 510F-16-1 foram os mais promissores para utilização em programa de seleção recorrente visando tolerância ao déficit hídrico. As combinações híbridas (1) BRS Paraguaçu X (4) CNCx 698-128G, (2) Pingo de Ouro-1-2 X (3) BRS Xiquexique, (3) BRS Xiquexique X (5) Santo Inácio, (4) CNCx 698-128G X (6) MNC99-510F-16-1 e (5) Santo Inácio X (4) CNCx 698-128G, possuem potencial simultâneos para extração de linhagens superiores quanto à produtividade de grãos e tolerantes ao déficit hídrico.

The northeastern semiarid region faces some of the droughts of the last centuries, resulting in serious reductions of agriculture yields. The water scarcity for agricultural requires rational use practices and reuse of water, such as use of domestic effluent sewage. Alternatively, the use of treated domestic sewage effluent utilizing for irrigation of forage species, such as the forage cactus, can be highlighted. In order to evaluate the effects of fertirrigation with treated sewage effluent on mineral nutrient composition of forage cactus (Opuntia Tuna L. Mill, Mexican elephant ear), an experiment was carried out utilizing a split plot 3 x (4 + 1) with a randomized complete block design randomized block and four replications, being three planting density (66,667.00, 52,282.00 and 33,333.00 plants ha-1) and two water sources associated with irrigation frequency of plates fixed on 3.5 mm per irrigation (Frequencies of 2.3 days with water tap and 7, 14 and 21 days with Sewage Effluent) and cactus cultivated in Rainfed agriculturerainfed (control). The analyze of the nutritional contents of cladodes indicated that there was a significant effect of the intervals from irrigation events only for Ca and Mg concentrations. The highest levels of Ca and Mg were found with the irrigation frequency of 2.3 using tap water. The macronutrients concentration in greater quantity by the forage cactus were N e, K followed by, Ca, Mg and P. The nutritional balance indicated excess of K and P and deficiency of N, Ca and Mg, in this order.

RESUMO O semiárido nordestino enfrenta umas das mais severas secas dos últimos séculos, resultando em reduções severas na produção agrícola. A escassez hídrica na agricultura exige práticas de uso racional e reaproveitamento da água como, por exemplo, a utilização de efluentes de esgoto doméstico . Alternativamente pode-se destacar o uso de esgoto doméstico tratado para irrigação de espécies forrageiras, como a palma. Objetivando avaliar os efeitos da fertirrigação com efluente de esgoto doméstico tratado sob a composição mineral de nutriente em palma forrageira (Opuntia Tuna L. Mill, Orelha-de-elefante Mexicana), foi conduzido um experimento em blocos casualizados em esquema de parcelas subdivididas 3 x (4 + 1), com 4 repetições, sendo três densidades de plantio (66.667,00; 52.282,00 e 33.333,00 plantas ha-1) e duas fontes hídrica associadas a frequência de irrigação com lâmina fixa de 3,5 mm por rega (Frequências de 2,3 dias com água de abastecimento e de 7, 14 e 21 dias com Efluente de Esgoto) e, palma cultivada em sequeiro (testemunha). As análises dos teores nutricionais dos cladódios indicam que houve efeito significativo dos intervalos entre eventos de irrigação apenas para as concentrações de Ca e Mg. Os maiores teores de Ca e Mg foram encontrados com a frequência de irrigação de 2,3 utilizando água de abastecimento. Os macronutrientes em maior quantidade pela palma forrageira foram N e K seguido de Ca, Mg e P. O balanço nutricional indicou excesso de K e P e déficit de N, Ca e Mg, nesta ordem. | ABSTRACT The northeastern semiarid region faces some of the droughts of the last centuries, resulting in serious reductions of agriculture yields. The water scarcity for agricultural requires rational use practices and reuse of water, such as use of domestic effluent sewage. Alternatively, the use of treated domestic sewage effluent utilizing for irrigation of forage species, such as the forage cactus, can be highlighted. In order to evaluate the effects of fertirrigation with treated sewage effluent on mineral nutrient composition of forage cactus (Opuntia Tuna L. Mill, Mexican elephant ear), an experiment was carried out utilizing a split plot 3 x (4 + 1) with a randomized complete block design randomized block and four replications, being three planting density (66,667.00, 52,282.00 and 33,333.00 plants ha-1) and two water sources associated with irrigation frequency of plates fixed on 3.5 mm per irrigation (Frequencies of 2.3 days with water tap and 7, 14 and 21 days with Sewage Effluent) and cactus cultivated in Rainfed agriculturerainfed (control). The analyze of the nutritional contents of cladodes indicated that there was a significant effect of the intervals from irrigation events only for Ca and Mg concentrations. The highest levels of Ca and Mg were found with the irrigation frequency of 2.3 using tap water. The macronutrients concentration in greater quantity by the forage cactus were N e, K followed by, Ca, Mg and P. The nutritional balance indicated excess of K and P and deficiency of N, Ca and Mg, in this order.

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.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the productive and economic performance of a forage cactus and sorghum intercropping system in relation to a forage cactus single cropping system under different irrigation blades with saline water. The study was conducted in Serra Talhada, State of Pernambuco, in a randomized block design, consisting of a factorial arrangement with split-plot parcels (5×2) and four replications. The five plots were the irrigation depths based on the reference evapotranspiration (ETo) (0, 8.75, 17.5, 26.25, and 35% ETo) and the two cropping systems were single forage cactus cropping and cactus intercropped with sorghum. The experiment was conducted for one year, with one forage cactus cycle and two cycles of sorghum. Yields were obtained at the end of the cycles. Economic profitability was analyzed by means of net revenue (NR) and the benefit/cost ratio (B/C), with cactus forage sold as forage or as "seed" and sorghum as forage. Net revenue and B/C simulations were carried out over an eight-year useful life span of the irrigation system. Increasing irrigation depth increased the dry matter yield of the intercropping system because of higher sorghum yield. Based on the NR and B/C ratio values, forage cactus and sorghum produced as forage produced higher economic outcomes in the intercropping system and showed a higher profitability from the 2nd year of implementation of the irrigation system. Forage cactus and sorghum intercropping irrigated with saline water is therefore recommended for forage production in the Brazilian semi-arid region.

RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho produtivo-econômico da consorciação palma forrageira e sorgo em relação ao sistema de plantio exclusivo da palma forrageira sob diferentes lâminas de irrigação com água salina. A pesquisa foi conduzida em Serra Talhada, PE, com delineamento em blocos ao acaso, arranjo fatorial com parcelas subdivididas (5×2), quatro repetições, sendo considerada como parcelas as lâminas de irrigação complementar com base na evapotranspiração de referência (0; 8,75; 17,5; 26,25 e 35% ETo), e as subparcelas, os sistemas de plantio: palma exclusiva e consórcio palma-sorgo. O experimento foi conduzido por um ano, sendo um ciclo de palma e dois ciclos do sorgo. Ao final foram obtidas as produtividades de matéria fresca e seca. A rentabilidade econômica foi analisada por meio da receita líquida (RL) e da relação benefício/custo (B/C) da palma destinada à venda tanto para forragem como “semente” para o plantio, e do sorgo para produção de forragem. Simulações de RL e B/C foram feitas ao longo da vida útil de oito anos do sistema de irrigação. As lâminas de água aumentaram a produtividade de matéria seca do consórcio, devido ao benefício gerado ao sorgo. Com base na RL e B/C, verificou-se que a palma e o sorgo destinados à venda como forragem mostraram mais vantagem quando consorciadas e maior rentabilidade a partir do 2º ano de implantação do sistema de irrigação. Conclui-se que, o consórcio palma forrageira e sorgo irrigado com água salina deve ser recomendado para a produção de forragem no Semiárido brasileiro. | ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the productive and economic performance of a forage cactus and sorghum intercropping system in relation to a forage cactus single cropping system under different irrigation blades with saline water. The study was conducted in Serra Talhada, State of Pernambuco, in a randomized block design, consisting of a factorial arrangement with split-plot parcels (5×2) and four replications. The five plots were the irrigation depths based on the reference evapotranspiration (ETo) (0, 8.75, 17.5, 26.25, and 35% ETo) and the two cropping systems were single forage cactus cropping and cactus intercropped with sorghum. The experiment was conducted for one year, with one forage cactus cycle and two cycles of sorghum. Yields were obtained at the end of the cycles. Economic profitability was analyzed by means of net revenue (NR) and the benefit/cost ratio (B/C), with cactus forage sold as forage or as "seed" and sorghum as forage. Net revenue and B/C simulations were carried out over an eight-year useful life span of the irrigation system. Increasing irrigation depth increased the dry matter yield of the intercropping system because of higher sorghum yield. Based on the NR and B/C ratio values, forage cactus and sorghum produced as forage produced higher economic outcomes in the intercropping system and showed a higher profitability from the 2nd year of implementation of the irrigation system. Forage cactus and sorghum intercropping irrigated with saline water is therefore recommended for forage production in the Brazilian semi-arid region.

The banana tree is grown in an extensive tropical region throughout the world, usually by small producers. The present work had the objective of evaluating irrigation systems in banana production in the Açu-RN Valley, aiming at alternatives so that they can be recommended to farmers in the Açu Valley region. The experiment was carried out in the area of the School Farm of the IFRN Campus Ipanguaçu, located in the municipality of Ipanguaçu-RN. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design with subdivided plots and eight replications. The irrigation systems were: irrigation, drip irrigation, micro sprinkler and alternative irrigation. The plots were composed of eight useful plants with spacing in double rows 4 x 2 x 2 m. Eight characteristics related to production were evaluated: bunch mass (MC); number of leaves (NP); number of fruits per cluster (NFC); mean mass of the leaves (MMP); diameter of the fruit of the second seed (DF2P); length of the fruit of the second seed (CF2P); mean fruit mass (MMF); productivity (Prod). The data were submitted to analysis of variance and the means were compared by the Tukey test at 5% of probability. In the first cycle of production the sprinkler irrigation system was the one that presented better results the productivity of the Pacovan banana tree; in the 3rd cycle the alternative irrigation system was the one that showed better results the productivity of the banana tree; where the electrical conductivity correlated with the sodium adsorption ratio in the irrigation water, contributed to a moderate limitation of use.

RESUMO A bananeira é cultivada em uma extensa região tropical em todo mundo, geralmente por pequenos produtores. O presente trabalho teve o objetivo de avaliar sistemas de irrigação na produção de banana no Vale do Açu-RN, visando alternativas para que possam ser recomendados aos agricultores da região do Vale do Açu. O experimento foi realizado na área da Fazenda Escola do IFRN Campus Ipanguaçu, localizado no município de Ipanguaçu-RN. O ensaio foi conduzido por um período de três ciclos de produção, em delineamento de blocos casualizados com parcelas subdivididas e oito repetições, sendo representados por quatro sistemas de irrigação: aspersão, gotejamento, microaspersão e alternativo. As parcelas foram constituídas de oito plantas úteis com espaçamento em fileiras duplas 4 x 2 x 2 m. Foram avaliadas oito características relacionadas à produção: massa do cacho (MC); nº de pencas (NP); nº de frutos por cacho (NFC); massa média das pencas (MMP); diâmetro do fruto da segunda penca (DF2P); comprimento do fruto da segunda penca (CF2P); massa média de frutos (MMF); produtividade média (Prod). Os dados foram submetidos a análise de variância e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. No 1º ciclo de produção o sistema de irrigação por aspersão foi o que apresentou melhores resultados a produtividade da bananeira Pacovan; no 3º ciclo o sistema de irrigação alternativo foi o que mostrou melhores resultados a produtividade da bananeira; onde a condutividade elétrica correlacionada com a razão de adsorção do sódio na água de irrigação, contribuiram para moderada limitação de uso. | ABSTRACT The banana tree is grown in an extensive tropical region throughout the world, usually by small producers. The present work had the objective of evaluating irrigation systems in banana production in the Açu-RN Valley, aiming at alternatives so that they can be recommended to farmers in the Açu Valley region. The experiment was carried out in the area of the School Farm of the IFRN Campus Ipanguaçu, located in the municipality of Ipanguaçu-RN. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design with subdivided plots and eight replications. The irrigation systems were: irrigation, drip irrigation, micro sprinkler and alternative irrigation. The plots were composed of eight useful plants with spacing in double rows 4 x 2 x 2 m. Eight characteristics related to production were evaluated: bunch mass (MC); number of leaves (NP); number of fruits per cluster (NFC); mean mass of the leaves (MMP); diameter of the fruit of the second seed (DF2P); length of the fruit of the second seed (CF2P); mean fruit mass (MMF); productivity (Prod). The data were submitted to analysis of variance and the means were compared by the Tukey test at 5% of probability. In the first cycle of production the sprinkler irrigation system was the one that presented better results the productivity of the Pacovan banana tree; in the 3rd cycle the alternative irrigation system was the one that showed better results the productivity of the banana tree; where the electrical conductivity correlated with the sodium adsorption ratio in the irrigation water, contributed to a moderate limitation of use.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the tolerance to cadmium (Cd) of sunflower genotypes grown in greenhouse conditions, and the effectiveness of using photosynthetic parameters as physiological indicators of this tolerance. Seeds of two sunflower genotypes previously identified as tolerant (H358) and Cd-sensitive (AG960) to Cd were used. The seeds were germinated in plastic cups containing plant substrate; after 9 days, the seedlings were transplanted to plastic basins containing a nutrient solution with 0 or 10 µM of Cd, where they remained for 16 days. Samples of the plants were harvested every 5 days. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete design, using a 4×2×2 factorial arrangement (4 days of grown in a nutrient solution with Cd, 2 sunflower genotypes, and 2 Cd levels) with four replications. Cd stress decreased CO2 net assimilation, stomatal conductance, carboxylation efficiency, photosynthetic pigment contents, potential quantum yield (Fv/Fm), and effective quantum yield of plants of the two evaluated genotypes. The decrease in photosynthetic rates of these plants was caused by both stomatal and non-stomatal limitations. Plants of the AG960 genotype showed more pronounced deleterious effects due to Cd stress than those of the H358 genotype. Thus, CO2 net assimilation rate, stomatal conductance, and chloroplast pigment content are good physiological indicators of sunflower tolerance to Cd and can at least in part, explain the greater tolerance of the H358 genotype to Cd stress when compared to the AG960 genotype.

ABSTRACT The objective of the present study was to evaluate the tolerance to cadmium (Cd) of sunflower genotypes grown in greenhouse conditions, and the effectiveness of using photosynthetic parameters as physiological indicators of this tolerance. Seeds of two sunflower genotypes previously identified as tolerant (H358) and Cd-sensitive (AG960) to Cd were used. The seeds were germinated in plastic cups containing plant substrate; after 9 days, the seedlings were transplanted to plastic basins containing a nutrient solution with 0 or 10 µM of Cd, where they remained for 16 days. Samples of the plants were harvested every 5 days. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete design, using a 4×2×2 factorial arrangement (4 days of grown in a nutrient solution with Cd, 2 sunflower genotypes, and 2 Cd levels) with four replications. Cd stress decreased CO2 net assimilation, stomatal conductance, carboxylation efficiency, photosynthetic pigment contents, potential quantum yield (Fv/Fm), and effective quantum yield of plants of the two evaluated genotypes. The decrease in photosynthetic rates of these plants was caused by both stomatal and non-stomatal limitations. Plants of the AG960 genotype showed more pronounced deleterious effects due to Cd stress than those of the H358 genotype. Thus, CO2 net assimilation rate, stomatal conductance, and chloroplast pigment content are good physiological indicators of sunflower tolerance to Cd and can at least in part, explain the greater tolerance of the H358 genotype to Cd stress when compared to the AG960 genotype. | RESUMO O presente estudo foi conduzido em casa de vegetação objetivando-se demonstrar a tolerância ao cádmio (Cd) em genótipos de girassol e avaliar a eficácia dos parâmetros fotossintéticos como indicadores fisiológicos dessa tolerância. Para isto, foram utilizadas sementes de dois genótipos de girassol previamente identificados como tolerante (H358) e sensível (AG960) ao Cd. As sementes foram germinadas em copos plásticos contendo substrato vegetal e, após 9 dias, as plântulas foram transferidas para bacias plásticas com solução nutritiva contendo 0 ou 10 µM de Cd , onde permaneceram por 16 dias. As plantas foram coletadas a cada 5 dias. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado, em um arranjo fatorial 4 (dias de exposição) × 2 (genótipos) × 2 (níveis de Cd), com quatro repetições. A exposição ao Cd reduziu a taxa de assimilação líquida do CO2, a condutância estomática e a eficiência de carboxilação, bem como os teores de todos os pigmentos fotossintéticos, a razão Fy/Fm e o YII das plantas de ambos os genótipos estudados. Demonstrando que a redução na taxa fotossintética dessas plantas foi ocasionada tanto por limitações estomáticas como não-estomáticas. Os efeitos deletérios do Cd foram mais pronunciados no genótipo AG960 em comparação com o H358. Assim, as variáveis A, gs e os teores de pigmentos mostraram-se bons indicadores fisiológicos da tolerância do girassol ao estresse por Cd e podem, ao menos em parte, explicar a maior tolerância do genótipo H358 em relação ao AG960.

Bacillus spp. have been used against diseases caused by bacteria that affect cultured shrimp, providing beneficial effects on the host shrimps by altering their microbial community, and improving zootechnical indexes. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of a diet supplemented with Bacillus cereus-a bacterium with probiotic potential-on post-larvae Litopenaeus vannamei shrimps grown in laboratory. The experiment lasted for fifteen days and consisted of six treatments-control (T1), probiotic (T2), Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP) (T3), probiotic and VP (T4), V. alginolyticus (VA) (T5), and probiotic and VA (T6). The survival rate, weight gain, colonization capacity of the probiotic bacteria, pathogen count, and histopathological lesions were evaluated. There was no significant difference (p=0.05) in survival between treatments. The groups with pathogens and without probiotics presented lower weight gain. The result of the Bacillus cereus count in the treatments T2, T4 and T6 were significantly different (p<0.05), the probiotic bacteria were more aggressive in competing for space and nutrients when compared to V. parahaemolyticus than when compared to V. alginolyticus. Animals fed with the probiotic presented lower counts of these pathogens than those fed without the probiotic (p<0.05). No histopathological lesions were found in the organs and tissues of the shrimps. Bacillus cereus showed a high colonizing capacity in post-larvae shrimps, causing a significant reduction of pathogens, probably by secreting antimicrobial substances and the competitive exclusion, which justifies their use as probiotic bacteria.

RESUMO Bacillus spp. têm sido utilizados contra bacterioses que acometem camarão marinho cultivado, proporcionando efeito benéfico sobre o hospedeiro, alterando a comunidade microbiana intestinal e melhorando índices zootécnicos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos de uma dieta suplementada com Bacillus cereus, bactéria com potencial probiótico em pós-larvas de Litopenaeus vannamei cultivados em laboratório. O experimento teve duração de quinze dias e consistiu de seis tratamentos: T1 controle; T2 somente com probiótico; T3 com Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP); T4 com probiótico e com VP; T5 com V. alginolyticus (VA); e T6 com probiótico e com VA. Foram avaliados a sobrevivência, o ganho de peso, a capacidade de colonização das bactérias probióticas, contagem de patógenos e lesões histopatológicas. Não foi verificada diferença significativa (P=0,05) entre os tratamentos na sobrevivência. Os grupos desafiados com patógenos e sem uso de probióticos foram os que apresentaram menor ganho de peso. Na contagem de Bacillus cereus, houve diferença significativa (P<0,05) entre os tratamentos T2, T4 e T6 , observando-se que o probiótico competiu melhor por espaço e nutrientes quando confrontado com V. parahaemolyticus do que com V. alginolyticus. Os animais alimentados com ração suplementada de probiótico, apresentaram contagem inferior daqueles alimentados sem o uso (P<0,05). Não foram observadas lesões histopatológicas nos órgãos e tecidos dos animais. O Bacillus cereus demonstrou uma alta capacidade de colonizar pós-larvas de camarão, causando uma diminuição significativa de patógenos, provavelmente pela secreção de substâncias antimicrobianas e/ou por exclusão competitiva, justificando seu uso como uma bactéria probiótica. | ABSTRACT Bacillus spp. have been used against diseases caused by bacteria that affect cultured shrimp, providing beneficial effects on the host shrimps by altering their microbial community, and improving zootechnical indexes. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of a diet supplemented with Bacillus cereus-a bacterium with probiotic potential-on post-larvae Litopenaeus vannamei shrimps grown in laboratory. The experiment lasted for fifteen days and consisted of six treatments-control (T1), probiotic (T2), Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP) (T3), probiotic and VP (T4), V. alginolyticus (VA) (T5), and probiotic and VA (T6). The survival rate, weight gain, colonization capacity of the probiotic bacteria, pathogen count, and histopathological lesions were evaluated. There was no significant difference (p=0.05) in survival between treatments. The groups with pathogens and without probiotics presented lower weight gain. The result of the Bacillus cereus count in the treatments T2, T4 and T6 were significantly different (p<0.05), the probiotic bacteria were more aggressive in competing for space and nutrients when compared to V. parahaemolyticus than when compared to V. alginolyticus. Animals fed with the probiotic presented lower counts of these pathogens than those fed without the probiotic (p<0.05). No histopathological lesions were found in the organs and tissues of the shrimps. Bacillus cereus showed a high colonizing capacity in post-larvae shrimps, causing a significant reduction of pathogens, probably by secreting antimicrobial substances and the competitive exclusion, which justifies their use as probiotic bacteria.