ABSTRACT Swine wastewater can be used as a biofertilizer and promote significant improvements in soil physical-chemical attributes and yield. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of swine wastewater application on soil and maize yield. The experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Sciences Center of the Federal University of Piauí, in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil, from August to November 2015. The experimental design used completely randomized blocks in split-plot scheme, with five doses of swine wastewater (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 m3 ha-1) in the plots and two soil depths (0.20 and 0.40 m) in the subplots, with four replications. Exchangeable contents of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium, electrical conductivity, pH, sum of bases, base saturation, potential acidity and cation exchange capacity, and crop yield were evaluated. Results showed calcium, magnesium, sum of bases and cation exchange capacity increased with elevated levels of swine wastewater. Potassium and sodium contents however decreased with doses of 51.58 and 52.28 m3 ha-1, respectively. Except for potassium and potential acidity, variables showed higher values at the 0-0.20 m depth. | RESUMO A água residuária da suinocultura pode ser usada como biofertilizante e promover melhorias significativas nos atributos físico-químicos do solo e na produtividade. Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos da aplicação da água residuária da suinocultura no solo e na produtividade do milho-verde. O experimento foi conduzido no Centro de Ciências Agrárias da Universidade Federal do Piauí, em Teresina, Piauí, no período de agosto a novembro de 2015. O delineamento experimental adotado foi em blocos casualizados em esquema de parcela subdividida, com 4 repetições, sendo os tratamentos constituídos por cinco doses de água residuária da suinocultura (0, 25, 50, 75,100 m3 ha-1) nas parcelas e duas profundidades do solo (0,20 e 0,40 m) nas subparcelas. Foram avaliados os teores trocáveis de cálcio, magnésio, fósforo, potássio e sódio, condutividade elétrica, pH, soma de bases, saturação por base, acidez potencial e capacidade de troca de cátions, e a produtividade da cultura. Os resultados demonstraram que os teores de cálcio, magnésio, soma de base e capacidade de troca de cátions aumentaram com a elevação dos níveis de água residuária da suinocultura, no entanto os teores de potássio e sódio reduziram a partir das doses de 51,58 e 52,28 m3 ha-1, respectivamente. Com exceção do potássio e acidez potencial, as demais variáveis apresentaram maiores valores na profundidade de 0-0.20 m.

Swine wastewater can be used as a biofertilizer and promote significant improvements in soil physical-chemical attributes and yield. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of swine wastewater application on soil and maize yield. The experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Sciences Center of the Federal University of Piauí, in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil, from August to November 2015. The experimental design used completely randomized blocks in split-plot scheme, with five doses of swine wastewater (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 m3 ha-1) in the plots and two soil depths (0.20 and 0.40 m) in the subplots, with four replications. Exchangeable contents of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium, electrical conductivity, pH, sum of bases, base saturation, potential acidity and cation exchange capacity, and crop yield were evaluated. Results showed calcium, magnesium, sum of bases and cation exchange capacity increased with elevated levels of swine wastewater. Potassium and sodium contents however decreased with doses of 51.58 and 52.28 m3 ha-1, respectively. Except for potassium and potential acidity, variables showed higher values at the 0-0.20 m depth.

ABSTRACT The accumulation and transformation of organic matter in the soil are fundamental for the maintenance and improvement of the chemical, physical, and biological attributes of the soil, and consequently, for the tropical forests functioning. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of secondary forests with different successional stages on soil organic matter, carbon and nitrogen stocks, and soil fertility. Three areas of seasonal semideciduous forest, located in Pinheiral - RJ, with different successional stages were selected: initial stage forest - ISF, medium stage forest - MSF, and advanced stage forest - ASF. The values of total carbon and nitrogen, C and N stocks, δ13C (‰) isotope, chemical and granulometric fractionation of soil organic matter, and soil fertility were determined. Based on the values of δ 13C (‰), it was verified that most of the soil carbon of the different successional stages comes from forest species (C3 plants). The areas with the highest succession time (MSF and ASF) possess higher levels of carbon and nitrogen contents and stocks, and carbon associated with minerals compared to ISF. In addition, ASF showed increased phosphorus, fulvic acid, humic acid, whereas soil density exhibited reduced values when compared to that of other areas. The MSF showed, in general, greater fertility of the soil. This study emphasizes the importance of secondary forests that, even in the initial stages of succession, have great potential to store and stabilize organic carbon in the soil. | RESUMO O acúmulo e as transformações da matéria orgânica do solo são fundamentais para a manutenção e melhoria dos atributos químicos, físicos e biológicos do solo, e, consequentemente, para o funcionamento das florestas tropicais. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência de florestas secundárias com diferentes estádios sucessionais na matéria orgânica do solo, nos estoques de carbono e nitrogênio e na fertilidade do solo. Foram selecionadas três áreas de Floresta Estacional Semidecidual, com diferentes estádios sucessionais, sendo estas: floresta em estádio inicial - FEI, floresta em estádio médio - MSF e floresta em estádio avançado - FEA, localizadas em Pinheiral, RJ. Foram determinados os valores de carbono e nitrogênio total, estoques de C e nitrogênio, isótopo δ13C (%°), fracionamento químico e granulométrico da matéria orgânica do solo e fertilidade do solo. Por meio dos valores do isótopo δ13C (%°) verificou-se que a maior parte do carbono do solo dos diferentes estádios sucessionais é oriunda das espécies florestais (plantas C3). As áreas com maior tempo de sucessão (FEM e FEA) promoveram maiores teores e estoques de carbono e nitrogênio, e carbono associado aos minerais em comparação à ISF. Adicionalmente, na FEA observaram-se aumentos dos teores de fósforo, ácido fúlvico, ácido húmico e redução dos valores de densidade do solo quando comparada as demais áreas. A FEM apresentou, de maneira geral, maior fertilidade do solo. Este estudo destaca a importância das florestas secundárias que, mesmo em fases iniciais de sucessão, possuem grande potencial em estocar e estabilizar carbono orgânico no solo.

The accumulation and transformation of organic matter in the soil are fundamental for the maintenance and improvement of the chemical, physical, and biological attributes of the soil, and consequently, for the tropical forests functioning. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of secondary forests with different successional stages on soil organic matter, carbon and nitrogen stocks, and soil fertility. Three areas of seasonal semideciduous forest, located in Pinheiral - RJ, with different successional stages were selected: initial stage forest - ISF, medium stage forest - MSF, and advanced stage forest - ASF. The values of total carbon and nitrogen, C and N stocks, δ13C (‰) isotope, chemical and granulometric fractionation of soil organic matter, and soil fertility were determined. Based on the values of δ 13C (‰), it was verified that most of the soil carbon of the different successional stages comes from forest species (C3 plants). The areas with the highest succession time (MSF and ASF) possess higher levels of carbon and nitrogen contents and stocks, and carbon associated with minerals compared to ISF. In addition, ASF showed increased phosphorus, fulvic acid, humic acid, whereas soil density exhibited reduced values when compared to that of other areas. The MSF showed, in general, greater fertility of the soil. This study emphasizes the importance of secondary forests that, even in the initial stages of succession, have great potential to store and stabilize organic carbon in the soil.

RESUMO A Espanha possui um terço de toda área irrigada da Europa. A área irrigada no país responde por 15% da área cultivada e quase 60% da produção agrícola nacional. O conhecimento da variabilidade espacial e temporal da evapotranspiração de referência (ETo) e da teoria probabilística dos eventos extremos é um ponto essencial para elaboração de projetos sustentáveis de irrigação. O objetivo do trabalho foi analisar a distribuição de frequência que melhor descreve a ETo visando o dimensionamento de sistemas de irrigação da região de Andaluzia, Espanha. Foram utilizados dados de ETo de 56 estações meteorológicas com extensão das séries entre os anos de 2001 a 2015. Estes valores de ETo foram acumulados em três períodos consecutivos de dias. Para todos os períodos acumulados ajustaram-se nove distribuições de probabilidade. A distribuição de probabilidade que melhor descreveu a ETo visando o dimensionamento de sistemas de irrigação da região foi a Gumbel II. A ETo diária máxima a ser considerada em projetos de irrigação na mesma região é de 10 mm, em média. Já as ETo acumuladas em períodos de 5, 10 e 30 dias que devem ser consideradas são, em média, de 42 mm, 78 mm e 224 mm, respectivamente. | ABSTRACT Spain contains a third the entire irrigated area of Europe, accounting for 15% of the cultivated area of the country and almost 60% of the national agricultural production. Knowledge of the spatial and temporal variability of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) and the probabilistic theory of extreme events is crucial for the elaboration of sustainable irrigation projects. The objective of this work was to define the frequency distribution that best describes ETo for the design of irrigation systems in the region of Andalusia. We used ETo data for the period 2001 to 2015 from 56 meteorological stations. The values were accumulated over three consecutive days. For all accumulated periods, nine probability distributions were adjusted. The probability distribution that best described ETo for the design of irrigation systems in the region was the Gumbel II distribution. The maximum daily ETo to be considered in irrigation projects in this region is, on average, 10 mm. The accumulated ETo for periods of 5, 10, and 30 days that should be considered are, on average, 42 mm, 78, mm and 224 mm, respectively.

Spain contains a third the entire irrigated area of Europe, accounting for 15% of the cultivated area of the country and almost 60% of the national agricultural production. Knowledge of the spatial and temporal variability of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) and the probabilistic theory of extreme events is crucial for the elaboration of sustainable irrigation projects. The objective of this work was to define the frequency distribution that best describes ETo for the design of irrigation systems in the region of Andalusia. We used ETo data for the period 2001 to 2015 from 56 meteorological stations. The values were accumulated over three consecutive days. For all accumulated periods, nine probability distributions were adjusted. The probability distribution that best described ETo for the design of irrigation systems in the region was the Gumbel II distribution. The maximum daily ETo to be considered in irrigation projects in this region is, on average, 10 mm. The accumulated ETo for periods of 5, 10, and 30 days that should be considered are, on average, 42 mm, 78, mm and 224 mm, respectively.

RESUMO O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química da água residuária da suinocultura (ARS) e efeito nos atributos químicos do solo e planta em um experimento de longa duração. A área destina-se a 8 anos a produção de feno de capim Tifton 85 (Cynodon spp.), com aplicação média anual de 360 m3 ha-1 dividida em 6 aplicações. Também se avaliou a composição química do solo em duas profundidades 0,0-0,20 e 0,20-0,40 m de profundidade e a composição química da planta e material vegetal sobre o solo, avaliada em duas épocas do ano (novembro e junho). As concentrações de nitrogênio, cálcio e cobre da ARS não reduziram do afluente até a lagoa de armazenamento. Ressalta-se que os teores de Cu, Zn e Mn foram classificados como em excesso no solo, que pode ser consequência dos elevados níveis destes nutrientes na ração dos suínos na granja fornecedora da ARS, principalmente na ração de leitões aliado a baixa extração destes nutrientes pelas plantas. Com relação aos micronutrientes e o fósforo (46,08 mg dm-3) no solo estes deverão ser avaliados em profundidades maiores, superiores ao presente estudo em função das concentrações não variarem muito entre profundidades e se mostrarem elevadas. As concentrações de cobre e zinco foram elevadas na parte aérea das plantas com médias de 133,0 e 139,30 mg kg-1, respectivamente. O uso contínuo de ARS deverá ter monitoramento contínuo através de análises de solo e do dejeto e alternativas devem ser buscadas no sentido de reduzir a concentração de micronutrientes e fósforo na ARS. | ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition of swine wastewater (SW), and its effect on the chemical attributes of soil and plants in a long-term experiment. The area was designed for an 8-year hay production, using Tifton 85 grass (Cynodon spp.), with an average annual application of 360 m3 ha-1, divided into 6 applications. Also, soil chemical composition was evaluated at 0.0-0.20 and 0.20-0.40 m of depth, and the chemical composition of plant and vegetable materials on the ground were evaluated for two months (November and June). Concentrations of N, Ca, and Cu in SW did not decrease from the affluent to the storage lagoon. It was observed that the content of Cu, Zn, and Mn was classified as in excess in soil that could be a consequence of high levels of these micronutrients utilized in rations of swine in the SW supplier farm, mainly in the rations of piglets combined with a low extraction of these nutrients by plants. In relation to micronutrients and P (46.08 mg dm-3) in the soil, these should be evaluated in greater depth than performed in the present study, because the concentrations did not vary considerably among depths and were high. The concentrations of Cu and Zn were high in shoot plants with an average of 133.0 and 139.30 mg kg-1, respectively. The continuous use of SW should be monitored continuously through analyses of soil and waste, and alternatives must be researched to reduce the concentration of micronutrients and P in SW.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition of swine wastewater (SW), and its effect on the chemical attributes of soil and plants in a long-term experiment. The area was designed for an 8-year hay production, using Tifton 85 grass (Cynodon spp.), with an average annual application of 360 m3 ha-1, divided into 6 applications. Also, soil chemical composition was evaluated at 0.0-0.20 and 0.20-0.40 m of depth, and the chemical composition of plant and vegetable materials on the ground were evaluated for two months (November and June). Concentrations of N, Ca, and Cu in SW did not decrease from the affluent to the storage lagoon. It was observed that the content of Cu, Zn, and Mn was classified as in excess in soil that could be a consequence of high levels of these micronutrients utilized in rations of swine in the SW supplier farm, mainly in the rations of piglets combined with a low extraction of these nutrients by plants. In relation to micronutrients and P (46.08 mg dm-3) in the soil, these should be evaluated in greater depth than performed in the present study, because the concentrations did not vary considerably among depths and were high. The concentrations of Cu and Zn were high in shoot plants with an average of 133.0 and 139.30 mg kg-1, respectively. The continuous use of SW should be monitored continuously through analyses of soil and waste, and alternatives must be researched to reduce the concentration of micronutrients and P in SW.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different doses of bovine biofertilizer on yield and post harvest of the strawberry crop in different growing environments. The experiment was carried out in two cycles of production, in Fortaleza, Ceará. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, arranged in subdivided plots, where the plots were of three cultivated environments (A1 = protected environment with screens, cold-water spraying, and white floor; A2 = environment with full sun, cold-water spraying, and white floor; A3 = environment with full sun, no cold-water spraying, and grey floor). The subplots consisted of five doses of biofertilizer (D1 = 0,0, D2 = 500, D3 = 750, D4 = 1000 and D5 = 1250 mL plant-1 week -1), with five replications. In the two-year period, the dose was higher in the protected environment of the weed type, with nebulization and on the white floor, at the dose of 500 mL week-1 plant-1 in the first cycle and 325 mL week-1 plant-1 in the second cycle. The dose of bovine biofertilizer of 1250 mL week-1 plant-1 promotes a longer duration and duration of the first cycle. During the second cycle, as the bovine biofertilizer doses of 585 and 620 provide higher and lower output than the protected environment. The environment without nebulization and on the floor without painting, the best soluble practices (Brix) in relation to the protected environment of the type screened and a full sun with nebulization.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different doses of bovine biofertilizer on yield and post harvest of the strawberry crop in different growing environments. The experiment was carried out in two cycles of production, in Fortaleza, Ceará. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, arranged in subdivided plots, where the plots were of three cultivated environments (A1 = protected environment with screens, cold-water spraying, and white floor; A2 = environment with full sun, cold-water spraying, and white floor; A3 = environment with full sun, no cold-water spraying, and grey floor). The subplots consisted of five doses of biofertilizer (D1 = 0,0, D2 = 500, D3 = 750, D4 = 1000 and D5 = 1250 mL plant-1 week -1), with five replications. In the two-year period, the dose was higher in the protected environment of the weed type, with nebulization and on the white floor, at the dose of 500 mL week-1 plant-1 in the first cycle and 325 mL week-1 plant-1 in the second cycle. The dose of bovine biofertilizer of 1250 mL week-1 plant-1 promotes a longer duration and duration of the first cycle. During the second cycle, as the bovine biofertilizer doses of 585 and 620 provide higher and lower output than the protected environment. The environment without nebulization and on the floor without painting, the best soluble practices (Brix) in relation to the protected environment of the type screened and a full sun with nebulization. | RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de diferentes doses de biofertilizante bovino na produtividade e na pós-colheita da cultura do morango em diferentes ambientes de cultivo. O experimento foi desenvolvido, em dois ciclos de produção, em Fortaleza, Ceará. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso, arranjados em parcelas subdivididas, onde as parcelas foram três ambientes de cultivo (A1= ambiente protegido do tipo telado, com nebulização com água gelada (temperatura variando entre 18 e 20 °C) e sobre piso branco, A2 = a pleno sol, com nebulização com água gelada e sobre piso branco, A3 = a pleno sol sem nebulização e sobre piso concretado sem pintura) e as subparcelas, cinco doses de biofertilizante (D1=0,0; D2=500; D3= 750; D4=1000; e D5= 1250 mL planta-1. semana-1), com cinco repetições. Nos dois anos, a produtividade foi maior no ambiente protegido do tipo telado, com nebulização e sobre piso branco, na dose de 500 mL semana-1 planta-1 no primeiro ciclo e 325 mL semana-1 planta-1 no segundo ciclo. A dose de biofertilizante bovino de 1250 mL semana-1 planta-1 promovem melhor diâmetro e comprimento do fruto dutante o primeiro ciclo. Durante o segundo ciclo, as doses de biofertilizante bovino de 585 e 620 proporcionam maior comprimento e diâmetro do fruto, respectivamente, no ambiente protegido do tipo telado, com nebulização e sobre piso branco. O ambiente a pleno sol sem nebulização e sobre piso sem pintura, apresentou melhores sólidos solúveis (°Brix) em relação ao ambiente protegido do tipo telado e a pleno sol com nebulização.

Water availability and substrate type are essential factors in seed germination tests, influencing imbibition and seedling development. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of two substrates and different water volumes on the germination and vigor of chia seeds. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 2 x 6 factorial scheme, which consisted of two substrates, paper towel (Germitest®) and blotting paper, soaked with six water volumes equivalent to 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 times their dry weight, in four replicates of 50 seeds each. Germination percentage, mean time of germination, shoot length, radicle length, shoot dry matter, radicle dry matter, total dry matter (seedling), and root/shoot ratio were evaluated. Based on our results, germination tests for seeds of chia should be conducted using blotting paper (on paper) as substrate, with a water volume of 2.5 to 4.0 times its dry weight. Chia seedlings grown on blotting paper showed greater growth and dry matter accumulation compared to those grown on paper towel.

RESUMO A disponibilidade de água e o tipo de substrato são requisitos essenciais para a condução do teste de germinação em sementes, por influenciarem na embebição e no desenvolvimento das plântulas. Objetivou-se avaliar a influência de dois substratos e diferentes volumes de água sob a germinação e vigor de sementes de chia. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2 x 6, sendo dois substratos substratos de papel toalha (Germitest®) e mata-borrão umedecidos com seis volumes de água equivalentes a 1,5; 2,0; 2,5; 3,0; 3,5 e 4,0 vezes o seu peso seco, em quatro repetições de 50 sementes. Avaliou-se a percentagem e o tempo médio de germinação, comprimento da parte aérea e da radícula, massa seca da parte aérea, radícula e total (plântula) e a relação raiz/parte aérea. O teste de germinação de sementes de chia deve ser conduzido no substrato mata-borrão (sobre papel) com quantidade de água entre 2,5 a 4,0 vezes o peso do papel seco. As plântulas de chia oriundas do papel mata-borrão obtiveram maior crescimento e acúmulo de matéria seca em relação às do papel toalha | ABSTRACT Water availability and substrate type are essential factors in seed germination tests, influencing imbibition and seedling development. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of two substrates and different water volumes on the germination and vigor of chia seeds. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 2 x 6 factorial scheme, which consisted of two substrates, paper towel (Germitest®) and blotting paper, soaked with six water volumes equivalent to 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 times their dry weight, in four replicates of 50 seeds each. Germination percentage, mean time of germination, shoot length, radicle length, shoot dry matter, radicle dry matter, total dry matter (seedling), and root/shoot ratio were evaluated. Based on our results, germination tests for seeds of chia should be conducted using blotting paper (on paper) as substrate, with a water volume of 2.5 to 4.0 times its dry weight. Chia seedlings grown on blotting paper showed greater growth and dry matter accumulation compared to those grown on paper towel.

Dwarf coconut tree is the main variety for commercial use in Brazil, which ranks fourth in world coconut production. However, the genotypes used still have limitations and genetic variability is required. The aim of this study was to estimate the genetic variability in dwarf coconut accessions preserved at the Germplasm Bank of Brazil at different harvesting times and using agronomic descriptors of plant and fruits. The accessions Brazilian Green Dwarf-Jiqui, Cameroon Red Dwarf, Malayan Red Dwarf, Brazilian Red Dwarf-Gramame, Brazilian Yellow Dwarf-Gramame, and Malayan Yellow Dwarf were assessed by means of 30 descriptors Variance analysis was performed and the genetic diversity was quantified by using the Mahalanobis’ generalized distance and expressed by means of UPGMA clusters, Tocher optimization, and canonical variables. The maximum likelihood analysis was used to estimate the components of variance with the data of each plant in a sample of 11 descriptors of great importance for the genetic improvement of the coconut tree. A phenotypic divergence was found among the accessions using the UPGMA clusters, Tocher optimization and graphic dispersion obtained with canonical variables. The use of the maximum likelihood analysis confirms the existence of genetic variability in the accessions for the descriptors fruit polar and equatorial diameter, nut polar diameter, total fruit weight, and epicarp thickness, which presented a heritability varying from 0.17 to 0.39. There is a possibility of genetic gains with the selection of these traits for use of accessions in breeding programs.

RESUMO O coqueiro anão é a principal variedade para uso comercial no Brasil, que ocupa atualmente a quarta posição na produção mundial. No entanto, os genótipos utilizados no país ainda apresentam limitações e há necessidade de variabilidade genética. Este trabalho teve por objetivo estimar a variabilidade genética em acessos de coqueiro-anão conservados no Banco de Germoplasma existente no Brasil, em diferentes épocas de colheita, utilizando descritores agronômicos de planta e frutos. Os acessos anão-verde-do-Brasil-de-Jiqui; anão-vermelho-de-Camarões; anão-vermelho-da-Malásia; anão-vermelho-de-Gramame; anão-amarelo-de-Gramame e anão-amarelo-da-Malásia foram avaliados por meio de 30 descritores. Análise de variância foi realizada e a diversidade genética foi quantificada utilizando a distância generalizada de Mahalanobis e expressa por meio de agrupamentos UPGMA, otimização de Tocher e variáveis canônicas. A análise de máxima verossimilhança foi utilizada para estimar os componentes de variância com os dados de cada planta em uma amostra de 11 descritores de maior importância para o melhoramento genético do coqueiro. Foi encontrada divergência fenotípica entre os acessos usando os agrupamentos UPGMA, Tocher e a dispersão gráfica obtida com variáveis canônicas. O emprego da análise de máxima verossimilhança confirma a existência de variabilidade genética nos acessos para os descritores diâmetro polar e equatorial do fruto, diâmetro polar da noz, peso total do fruto e espessura de epicarpo que apresentaram herdabilidade variando de 0,17 a 0,39. Há possibilidade de ganhos genéticos com a seleção desses caracteres para uso dos acessos em programas de melhoramento genético. | ABSTRACT Dwarf coconut tree is the main variety for commercial use in Brazil, which ranks fourth in world coconut production. However, the genotypes used still have limitations and genetic variability is required. The aim of this study was to estimate the genetic variability in dwarf coconut accessions preserved at the Germplasm Bank of Brazil at different harvesting times and using agronomic descriptors of plant and fruits. The accessions Brazilian Green Dwarf-Jiqui, Cameroon Red Dwarf, Malayan Red Dwarf, Brazilian Red Dwarf-Gramame, Brazilian Yellow Dwarf-Gramame, and Malayan Yellow Dwarf were assessed by means of 30 descriptors Variance analysis was performed and the genetic diversity was quantified by using the Mahalanobis’ generalized distance and expressed by means of UPGMA clusters, Tocher optimization, and canonical variables. The maximum likelihood analysis was used to estimate the components of variance with the data of each plant in a sample of 11 descriptors of great importance for the genetic improvement of the coconut tree. A phenotypic divergence was found among the accessions using the UPGMA clusters, Tocher optimization and graphic dispersion obtained with canonical variables. The use of the maximum likelihood analysis confirms the existence of genetic variability in the accessions for the descriptors fruit polar and equatorial diameter, nut polar diameter, total fruit weight, and epicarp thickness, which presented a heritability varying from 0.17 to 0.39. There is a possibility of genetic gains with the selection of these traits for use of accessions in breeding programs.

This study evaluated the physical and physiological attributes of saved cowpea seeds (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) used in the Brazilian semi-arid area and compared them with certified seed varieties. The study tested 37 saved seed samples from the state of Rio Grande do Norte and two varieties of certified seeds (“BRS Guariba” and “BRS Pujante”) from the production field of Embrapa Products and Market, Petrolina, PE, Brazil. The seeds were tested for moisture, hectoliter weight, weight of 1,000 seeds, and physical purity to evaluate the physical quality. Germination, first germination count, field emergence, emergence rate index, shoot dry mass, and accelerated aging were tested for physiological quality. The saved cowpea seeds showed great differences, suggesting the influence of genetic variability and different growing environments. The use of saved cowpea seeds by small farmers in the semi-arid areas of Northeastern Brazil is impractical, because these seeds have inferior physical and physiological qualities compared to certified cowpea seeds.

RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar a qualidade física e fisiológica de sementes salvas de feijão-caupi (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) utilizadas no semiárido brasileiro e compará-las com as variedades de sementes certificadas. Foram testadas 37 amostras de sementes salvas oriundas de diferentes municípios do Rio Grande do Norte e duas variedades de sementes certificadas (BRS Guariba e BRS Pujante), provenientes do campo de produção da Embrapa Produtos e Mercado, Petrolina, PE. Para avaliação da qualidade física, as sementes foram submetidas aos testes de grau de umidade, peso hectolítrico, peso de mil sementes e pureza física. Na avaliação da qualidade fisiológica testou-se a germinação, primeira contagem de germinação, emergência em campo, índice de velocidade de emergência, matéria seca de parte aérea e envelhecimento acelerado. As sementes salvas de feijão-caupi apresentaram grandes diferenças, sugerindo tanto a influência da variabilidade genética como dos diferentes ambientes de cultivo. A utilização de sementes salvas de feijão-caupi pelos pequenos produtores das áreas semiáridas do nordeste do Brasil se constitui em prática inviável por se tratar de sementes de qualidades física e fisiológica inferiores às sementes de origem certificadas. | ABSTRACT This study evaluated the physical and physiological attributes of saved cowpea seeds (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) used in the Brazilian semi-arid area and compared them with certified seed varieties. The study tested 37 saved seed samples from the state of Rio Grande do Norte and two varieties of certified seeds (“BRS Guariba” and “BRS Pujante”) from the production field of Embrapa Products and Market, Petrolina, PE, Brazil. The seeds were tested for moisture, hectoliter weight, weight of 1,000 seeds, and physical purity to evaluate the physical quality. Germination, first germination count, field emergence, emergence rate index, shoot dry mass, and accelerated aging were tested for physiological quality. The saved cowpea seeds showed great differences, suggesting the influence of genetic variability and different growing environments. The use of saved cowpea seeds by small farmers in the semi-arid areas of Northeastern Brazil is impractical, because these seeds have inferior physical and physiological qualities compared to certified cowpea seeds.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and growth promoting bacteria in plants (PGPBs) benefit the survival and development of plantlets; such benefits are attributed to the increased absorption of nutrients, increased photosynthetic rate and tolerance to abiotic stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate if the co-inoculation PGPBs and the AMF, Glomus clarum, improves the growth of micropropagated Manihot esculenta Crantz. The experiment was conducted in the greenhouse. The PGPBs used were Azospirillum amazonense (BR 11140), Herbaspirillum seropedicae (BR 11175), Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus (BR 11284) and Streptomyces sp. (S 30) and mixtures with double inoculation (Streptomyces sp + A. amazonense, Streptomyces sp + H. seropedicae, Streptomyces sp + G. diazotrophicus, A. amazonense + H. seropedicae, A. amazonense + G. diazotrophicus, and H. seropedicae + G. diazotrophicus). Strains of PGPBs inoculated in cassava cv. "BRA Pretinha III" influenced mycorrhizal colonization and the number of glomerospores, and synergistic effects occurred between Glomus clarum and PGPBs. The crude protein content revealed the contribution of PGPBs to nitrogen nutrition in cassava where the inoculated plants assimilated N in equal proportion with those that received mineral nitrogen. The combined inoculation of PGPBs in the presence of Glomus clarum was significant in cassava and fostered better performance in plant growth over time, similar to all the variables studied. Co-inoculation of PGPBs and AMF can meet the N need of cassava, with implications for the reduced use of N fertilizer.

ABSTRACT Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and growth promoting bacteria in plants (PGPBs) benefit the survival and development of plantlets; such benefits are attributed to the increased absorption of nutrients, increased photosynthetic rate and tolerance to abiotic stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate if the co-inoculation PGPBs and the AMF, Glomus clarum, improves the growth of micropropagated Manihot esculenta Crantz. The experiment was conducted in the greenhouse. The PGPBs used were Azospirillum amazonense (BR 11140), Herbaspirillum seropedicae (BR 11175), Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus (BR 11284) and Streptomyces sp. (S 30) and mixtures with double inoculation (Streptomyces sp + A. amazonense, Streptomyces sp + H. seropedicae, Streptomyces sp + G. diazotrophicus, A. amazonense + H. seropedicae, A. amazonense + G. diazotrophicus, and H. seropedicae + G. diazotrophicus). Strains of PGPBs inoculated in cassava cv. "BRA Pretinha III" influenced mycorrhizal colonization and the number of glomerospores, and synergistic effects occurred between Glomus clarum and PGPBs. The crude protein content revealed the contribution of PGPBs to nitrogen nutrition in cassava where the inoculated plants assimilated N in equal proportion with those that received mineral nitrogen. The combined inoculation of PGPBs in the presence of Glomus clarum was significant in cassava and fostered better performance in plant growth over time, similar to all the variables studied. Co-inoculation of PGPBs and AMF can meet the N need of cassava, with implications for the reduced use of N fertilizer. | RESUMO Os fungos micorrízicos arbusculares (FMA) e com as bactérias promotoras de crescimento (BPCPs) beneficiam a sobrevivência e o desenvolvimento de plântulas; tais benefícios são atribuídos ao aumento da absorção de nutrientes, aumento da taxa fotossintética, e aumento da tolerância a estresse abiótico. O objetivo deste estudo foi o de avaliar se a co-inoculação de BPCPs e do FMA, Glomus clarum, melhora o crescimento de Manihot esculenta Crantz micropropagada. As BPCPs utilizadas foram Azospirillum amazonense (BR 11140), Herbaspirillum seropedicae (BR 11175), Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus (BR 11284) e Streptomyces sp. (S 30), isoladas e em mistura com dupla inoculação (Streptomyces sp. + A. amazonense), (Streptomyces sp. + H. seropedicae), (Streptomyces sp. + G. diazotrophicus), (A. amazonense + H. seropedicae), (A. amazonense + G. diazotrophicus), (H. seropedicae + G. diazotrophicus). As estirpes de BPCPs inoculadas na mandioca cv. "BRA Pretinha III" influenciaram a colonização micorrízica e o número de glomerosporos. Nessas condições ocorreram efeitos sinérgicos de Glomus clarum com essas BPCPs. O teor de proteína bruta revelou a contribuição de BPCPs na nutrição nitrogenada de mandioca em que as plantas inoculadas assimilaram N em proporção igual àquelas que receberam nitrogênio mineral. A inoculação combinada de BPCPs na presença de Glomus clarum foi significativa na mandioca e melhorou o crescimento da planta ao longo do tempo, como em todas as variáveis estudadas. A co-inoculação de BPCPs e FMA pode atender a necessidade de N para mandioca, implicando redução no uso de fertilizante nitrogenado.