A new study highlights how increasing aridity reduces plant species richness in drylands, with extreme droughts amplifying this effect. Using a seven-year experiment, researchers found that while rainfall boosts diversity, dominant species can obscure this relationship. These insights improve biodiversity forecasts, crucial for conservation as climate change intensifies water availability shifts.
Orphan crops, as the name implies, are often ignored. Yet, they have great potential to improve global food security. These underutilised plants, primarily grown in Africa, Asia, and South America, are staples in local diets but receive minimal attention in modern agriculture. Due to limited research and breeding advancements, they remain vulnerable to biotic and abiotic stresses.
Septoria tritici blotch, caused by Zymoseptoria tritici, threatens wheat production. Researchers and breeders, studied 285 elite French wheat varieties, identifying 57 resistance QTLs and at least 11 known Stb genes. Their findings aid breeding for resistance and support the future meta-analysis.
Pollinators boost both crop yield and quality, yet their species-specific behavior and crop distribution patterns are often overlooked. Researchers stress the need to enhance cross-pollination to improve nutrient content. Optimizing landscape design and plant variety interactions can maximize benefits for both agriculture and consumer health.
Scientists have developed a diagnostic tool to identify quinoa plants resistant to downy mildew, aiding breeders in creating resilient varieties. The tool also ensures quinoa seed shipments are disease-free, preventing outbreaks. As quinoa’s popularity rises, the tool offers insights into the pathogen’s spread, enhancing management strategies for sustainable production.
Intensive land use for agriculture in tropical regions, driven by international trade, has caused over 90% of biodiversity loss since 1995, far exceeding previous estimates of 20-30%. Research using satellite data highlights hotspots like Brazil, Indonesia, and Madagascar. Solutions include transparent supply chains, fair pricing, and promoting sustainable domestic agriculture.
Eco-DRR (Disaster Risk Reduction) leverages farmland to mitigate floods by storing excess water, reducing damage. Analysis of 1917 Japanese municipalities (2010–2018) revealed farmland near river confluences significantly reduces flood risk. This eco-friendly approach supports food security, biodiversity, and disaster mitigation, offering a sustainable solution amid climate challenges.
A study reveals success in controlling the invasive Prosopis juliflora in Kenya and Tanzania using Sustainable Land Management (SLM). By uprooting the plant and using cleared land for crops, 75% of households adopted SLM. Adoption was higher among males and large farm owners, extending beyond direct project participants.
Researchers have developed a small, leaf-mounted sensor to monitor plant health and stress. This waterproof, Wi-Fi-enabled device tracks changes in leaf color, providing real-time data on plant conditions. Affordable and precise, it supports smart agriculture by enabling farmers to address stress-prone areas efficiently, boosting crop yields and resource management.
A new study reveals that plastic, even under best practices, contaminates soils with macro- and microplastics, harming critical soil functions. Sampling 12 California farms, researchers found significant plastic debris. To protect soil health and productivity, biodegradable alternatives to plastic mulch are urgently needed.
