International Journal of Agriculture and Biosciences

Borassus flabellifer L. is a highly valuable medicinal plant, with all parts of the tree possessing potential therapeutic properties and diverse applications. This study seeks to comprehensively assess the phytochemical composition and bioactive potential of various parts of B. flabellifer L., including the endosperm, haustorium, leaves, male flowers, mesocarp, ripe pulp, exocarp, and sap. Specifically, this research investigates the phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, tannins, antioxidant activities, and inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase enzymes across various plant parts. The male flowers had the highest value of phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and tannins in the samples of all the different parts, while ripe pulp showed the highest value of carotenoids in all parts of B. flabellifer L. All sample parts of B. flabellifer L. possessed strong antioxidant capacity, with the male flowers demonstrating the highest DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP radical scavenging activity (IC50 at 1.10mg/mL, IC50 at 0.44mg/mL, 147.09mg of TE/100g sample). The male flowers of B. flabellifer L. also had the most activity for α-glucosidase inhibitory with IC50 at 0.75mg/mL, more than the positive control, acarbose, with IC50 at 3.20mg/mL. The exocarp of B. flabellifer L. showed the highest acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity with IC50 at 157.82mg/mL. Seven phenolic acids (gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, vanillic acid, caffeic acid, coumaric acid, ferulic acid, and sinapic acid) and 3 flavonoids (catechin, rutin, and quercetin) were identified and quantified using HPLC. According to this study, B. flabellifer L. has the potential to be developed into dietary and pharmaceutical treatments for diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.

Keywords: Bioactive compounds, Antioxidant, Anti-α-glucosidase, Anti-acetylcholinesterase, B. flabellifer L.

Arak Bali is a well-known spirit in Indonesia, which is made from coconut sap using a traditional fermentation method. However, the microbe responsible for converting coconut sap sugar into ethanol in arak has yet to be clearly identified. This research aimed to elucidate the potential of the highest-performing microbe found in the traditional starter called lau in the arak (arrack) industry in Tri Eka Buana-Karangasem, Bali, named IS258. The IS258 isolate, previously assumed to be yeast, was found capable of producing 8.9% (v/v) ethanol in unoptimized rich PYG (peptone, yeast extract, and glucose) fermentation media. In this study, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was utilized to test and optimize the ethanol yield using various fermentation media compositions. This work aimed to maximize the yield of the yeast IS258, which resulted in 11.2% (v/v) ethanol/liter of media with 20% glucose, and 84% stoichiometric glucose conversion rate. The genetic analysis conducted in this work revealed that IS258 belongs to the Nakaseomyces glabrata, known as Candida glabrata, which is widely recognized as an opportunistic pathogen, despite being found on many fermented foods in Southeast Asia. The discoveries found in this work suggest IS258’s potential use as a bioethanol fermentation starter for the biofuel industry.

Keywords: Arak Bali, Bioethanol, Fermentation, Starter, DNA identification.

This research compared the irrigation performance and water conservation of soilless media with the traditional soilless method through examining water consumption, nutrient usage, crop growth, and yield factors. Conventional-flood, conventional-drip, soilless-drip, and soilless-nutrient film technique (NFT) were studied for the parameters: temperature variation, average pressure, and water quality, WUE, and plant performance indicators. Results revealed that soilless systems, especially NFT, had lower average pressures (110kPa) and lower nutrient concentrations  (nitrates: 30mg/L; phosphates: 2.5mg/L). Both soilless-drip and NFT allowed for more stable temperature regulation, with the NFT system consistently recording the lowest daily temperatures. Soilless-NFT approach demonstrated the highest water use efficiency (0.0840kg/L) while consuming the least amount of water (50L/plant). It produced comparable yields (4.2kg/plant) and higher-quality fruits in terms of weight, with higher firmness (14.0N) and a larger average fruit size (140g). Among the methods, soilless-drip showed the best results for plant height and leaf area (110cm and 2000cm², respectively). These findings suggest the potential of controlled irrigation systems for optimizing resources, promoting sustainable agriculture, and enhancing crop performance in a regulated environment.

Keywords: Soilless farming, Conventional farming, Nutrient film technique (NFT), Drip irrigation, Water use efficiency

Global seafood demand continues to rise, driven by increasing population, urbanization, and growing health awareness, with global seafood consumption at around 20.5 kg per capita. Overfishing, pollution, and climate change threaten wild fish stocks, driving aquaculture to the forefront of ensuring seafood security. Aquaculture now accounts for over 50% of global fish production and plays a critical role in alleviating pressure on wild fisheries resources. Technological advancements, including improved breeding, enhanced feed efficiency, and improved disease management, have contributed significantly to the growth of aquaculture. However, challenges such as disease outbreaks, environmental sustainability, and economic viability persist. Fish hybridization offers a promising solution, enhancing traits like disease resistance, growth rates, and adaptability to fluctuating environments. Recent studies have shown that hybrid fish outperform wild types in these areas, reinforcing the sustainability of aquaculture systems. Nonetheless, stringent management and monitoring are required to mitigate potential risks, such as unintended release of genetically distinct hybrids and ecosystem disruption. As aquaculture continues to evolve, hybridization is expected to play a crucial role in addressing global food security and meeting the increasing demand for sustainable seafood. This paper reviews success stories in fish hybridization, examines prevailing constraints and challenges, and outlines priority research avenues and policy directions for the field.

Keywords: Seafood security, Fish hybridization, Environmental adaptability, Fish welfare, Regulatory frameworks.

Seasonal feed shortages during the dry season present a major constraint to ruminant production in Indonesia. Corn silage is a practical solution to ensure consistent forage availability, but the performance of goats fed with different silage varieties remains unclear. This study evaluated the effects of corn-plant silage made from two varieties, Lamuru (a local composite) and Pioneer P32 (a hybrid), on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation profile, and growth performance of Kacang goats. Ten male goats (8–12 months old) were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments consisting of 60% corn-plant silage and 40% concentrate. Corn plants for silage are cultivated in rice fields during the dry season. Feed intake, nutrient digestibility, ruminal pH, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), total volatile fatty acids (VFA), average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and feed efficiency were assessed. Results indicated non-significant differences (P>0.05) between treatments for most variables, including feed consumption, digestibility, fermentation parameters, and production performance, except for ADF digestibility, which was higher (P<0.05) in goats fed with Pioneer P32 silage. These findings suggest that both corn varieties are suitable for silage production in rice fields during the dry season and can be used effectively in small ruminant feeding systems.

Keywords: Corn-plant silage, Kacang goats, Feed intake, Digestibility, Growth performance

A novel bacterial strain, PB-3-1, was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and identified as Bacillus thuringiensis based on morphological, physiological, and 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the insecticidal, antifungal, and plant growth-promoting properties of the PB-3-1 strain and to characterize its volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In laboratory bioassays, treatment with PB-3-1 culture broth resulted in 50% mortality of Phytonomus variabillis larvae by day 10. Antifungal activity was demonstrated against phytopathogenic fungi of the genus Fusarium, with inhibition zones measuring 41.3 ± 2.1mm for F. oxysporum and 32.0 ± 2.0mm for F. solani. A phytotoxicity assay on alfalfa seedlings revealed that PB-3-1 was non-toxic and significantly stimulated plant growth. At a concentration of 10⁵CFU/mL, the culture broth enhanced root and stem elongation by 42% and 68%, respectively, compared to the control. VOC profiling using GC–MS identified 15 components in the culture broth, dominated by pyrazine derivatives, including pyrazine, 2,5-dimethyl- (75.36%), and others. The total pyrazine content constituted 80.15% of the detected VOCs, suggesting their key role in the strain’s biological activity. These findings indicate that B. thuringiensis PB-3-1 exhibits strong biocontrol potential against P. variabillis and Fusarium spp., while also promoting alfalfa growth, highlighting its value as a multifunctional biological agent in sustainable crop protection.

Keywords: Alfalfa; Phytonomus variabillis; Fusarium; Bacillus thuringiensis; VOCs; Pyrazine.

This review aimed to explore the role of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) as a probiotic in poultry nutrition, with a focus on its effects on growth performance, gut health, immunity, and production parameters. The increasing demand for poultry products necessitates the development of sustainable strategies to increase productivity while maintaining animal health and ensuring food safety. The ban on antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) due to concerns over antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has led to a search for viable alternatives, with probiotics emerging as promising candidates. Among these strains, Saccharomyces cerevisiae has gained attention for its multifaceted benefits in poultry nutrition. This study explored the role of S. cerevisiae as a probiotic, focusing on its effects on growth performance, gut health, immunity, and production parameters. Extensive research has shown that S. cerevisiae improves nutrient digestibility, enhances the gut microbiota balance, strengthens immune responses, and mitigates the effects of environmental stressors. In laying hens, S. cerevisiae supplementation has been associated with improved egg production and quality by optimizing nutrient absorption and calcium metabolism. However, inconsistencies in research findings, which are influenced by environmental conditions and supplementation protocols, necessitate further investigation. This review synthesizes current evidence on the application of S. cerevisiae in poultry diets, highlighting its potential as a sustainable alternative to antibiotics and providing insights into optimizing its use in antibiotic-free poultry farming.

Keywords: Egg production, feed additive, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Poultry

The sustainability of mangrove ecotourism is greatly influenced by an area’s physical, real, and practical carrying capacity (ECC). Therefore, this study aims to evaluate and compare the physical carrying capacity (PCC), real carrying capacity (RCC), and adequate carrying capacity (ECC) in Bojongsalawe, Bulaksetra, and Batukaras. The study procedures were conducted using a mixed quantitative and qualitative method with direct observation in the field. Assessment was performed by integrating biophysical parameters, ecological constraints, and management capacity. The results showed that although the 3 locations had high PCC, the ECC value was lower due to limited management personnel and ecosystem sensitivity. In Batukaras, the actual visits exceeded all calculated thresholds, showing overcapacity conditions and threats to environmental sustainability. The current study emphasized the importance of zoning strategies, visit restriction policies, increasing management capacity, and community-based conservation. Further studies are recommended to use a GIS-based spatial approach and more comprehensive socio-ecological indicators.

Keywords: Mangrove ecotourism, Carrying capacity, Pangandaran, Sustainability tourism, Ecosystems management.

This study is devoted to the assessment of soil fertility and moisture content under the influence of climate change. In the Nakhchivanchay River basin of Azerbaijan, climatic factors had only a negative impact on the soil cover in 1999-2024, and soil moisture gradually decreased. As a result, the area of highly degraded soils increased by 20.3%, and actual soil water moisture decreased by 11.3%, from 232.8 to 206.5 mm. This value constitutes an annual water volume of 42.71million m3, which is a very high water loss for the land cover of the study area located in an arid region. Another negative manifestation of climate change is the 2.1% decrease in the fraction of precipitation falling during the vegetation season in the annual indicator. It has been established that within certain limits of climate change, land cover degradation remains relatively stable, but after crossing critical thresholds, it begins to deteriorate at a faster rate. The values of average temperature ≥13.8°C, precipitation ≤320 mm, and humidity coefficient ≤0.325 were defined as crisis ranges. It has been established that in certain areas, especially in large cities and suburbs, there is an increase in soil moisture and fertility, as well as a thickening of vegetation cover. This is due to population growth, the development of household plots and pastures, afforestation, and other greening activities. Between 2020 and 2025 alone, the population in these zones increased by 3.21%, the area of settlements by 6.07%, and the area of fertile land by 4.45%.

Keywords: Climate change, Synergistic approach, Water-pedological relationships, Factual soil moisture, Soil fertility.

Saline land has the potential for developing rice plants in Indonesia. High salt content causes a decrease in water availability for plants, damages leaves, and limits nutrient absorption. The use of biological agents is expected to increase the growth and yield of rice plants on saline land. This study aimed to evaluate the response of 18 local rice genotypes from West Kalimantan, Indonesia, to biopriming with a biological agent (WH3.1C isolate) under salinity stress. The experiment was conducted in two phases: the germination and seedling growth stages. A Randomized Block Design (RBD) was employed, with salinity levels as the main plot treatments (0 ppm, 4000 ppm NaCl, and 4000 ppm NaCl + WH3.1C isolate) and rice genotypes as subplots. The 18 genotypes comprised 10 black rice, 3 red rice, and 5 white rice varieties. The results of the research showed that genotypes of local rice showed different growth responses to 4000ppm NaCl. Application of WH3.1C isolate to water culture media that had previously been subjected to 4000ppm NaCl gave growth of rice that was not different from rice that were not subjected to salinity stress. The percentage of wet weight of root Banyuwangi Merah and Gula Hitam seedlings increased after being treated with the WH31.C isolate. Black Sugar rice also showed a percentage increase in root dry weight. This was suggested that WH3.1C isolate had capability to minimize the impact of salinity on the 18 local rice seedlings tested.

Keywords: Functional Microbes; Germination; Invigoration; Lokal Rice; NaCl Stress.

The poultry red mite (PRM), Dermanyssus gallinae, is a major blood-feeding parasite in chickens. These parasites have developed resistance to certain commercial acaricides. Vaccination, which induces antibodies in chicken blood to interfere with the PRM’s biological functions upon feeding, could be a promising alternative for controlling PRM, particularly a multi-antigen vaccine. However, simultaneously evaluating multiple antigen candidates requires many chickens, making the process costly and time-consuming. To address this, we proposed a rapid, simple, and animal-friendly method. This approach involved the rapid production of antigens as a DNA vaccine, followed by administration to egg-laying chickens for antibody production. The antibodies, immunoglobulin Y (IgY), were conveniently obtained from egg yolks. Since vaccine efficacy depends on antibody function, the IgYs were systematically combined into various formulations using an experimental design method, namely fractional factorial design. These combined IgYs were then fed to PRMs via in vitro feeding assays, enabling the assessment of a wide range of IgY formulations. Five potential PRM antigens, Cathepsin D-1, Protein of Unknown Function 1 (PUF-1), Akirin, Serpin (SRP-1), and Histamine Release Factor (HRF), were used as models for the method. Mite survival was monitored for 120 hours, and survival times were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves with log-rank tests and fractional factorial design statistical analysis. Key IgYs that significantly impacted PRM survival, such as PUF-1 and SRP-1, as well as all IgY interactions, were identified. This led to the selection of optimal antigen formulations for further testing in chickens. With this rapid screening method, fewer chickens are required, thereby reducing overall time, labor, and costs.

Keywords: Dermanyssus gallinae; Immunoglobulin Y (IgY); In vitro feeding assay; Multi-antigen DNA vaccine; Poultry red mite (PRM)

Although herbs have been used in wine since ancient times, particularly in Mediterranean regions, scientific evidence on how herbal additions affect wine properties remains limited. The present study investigated how the addition of three herbs (Salvia officinalis, Melissa officinalis, and Cannabis sativa) influences the volatile composition of wine produced from Muscat of Samos (Vitis vinifera L.). The herbs were directly extracted under two different conditions: in must (pre-fermentation addition) and in wine (post-fermentation addition), and potential differences in volatile compounds were examined. The produced wines were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS-MS), and 31 compounds were identified and grouped into the following categories: alcohols, acids, esters, terpenes, and ketones. Terpenes were present in low amounts in the control wine (total concentration of 99.82μg/L), while the highest total concentrations of terpenes and alcohols were found in wines with Salvia officinalis (2286.65 and 2813.49μg/L, respectively). Moreover, the stage at which herbs were added (pre- or post-fermentation) had a significant impact on the wine’s volatile composition. The results indicate that specific medicinal herbs under certain conditions influence substantially the volatile profile and sensory characteristics of wine. These findings suggest potential for the development of novel products with unique organoleptic characteristics.

Keywords: Herb extraction, Wine volatile composition, Salvia officinalis, Melissa officinalis, Cannabis sativa, Muscat of Samos.

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) is a globally important horticultural crop known for its remarkable morphological and agronomic diversity. However, commercial varieties in Indonesia remain poorly characterized. Here, we evaluated 24 C. melo varieties using 14 quantitative and 4 qualitative fruit traits related to size, shape, rind, flesh, seed morphology, and sugar content. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among varieties (p<0.05) for all traits. Principal component analysis (PC1 = 50.8%, PC2 = 36.7%) and hierarchical clustering identified three major phenotypic groups. Random forest modeling ranked trait importance based on %IncMSE, identifying seed cavity length, seed cavity index, and fruit diameter index as top predictors (importance score >10%). Integration of PCA, heatmap clustering, and variable importance plots confirmed these three traits as robust diagnostic markers. These findings highlight key morphological features for varietal classification and breeding, and provide a phenotypic framework for future genetic studies of melon in Indonesia.

Keywords: Phenotyping, Multivariate, Clustering, Classification.

Legumes are rich in protein and secondary metabolites and also develop root nodules, all of which contribute to the advancement of more sustainable animal production systems. The nutritive value and seed dormancy of Desmanthus virgatus (L.) Willd., a native legume with forage potential, were evaluated in two ecotypes, Copalillo and Pungarabato, from dry tropical zones in Mexico. Foliage and seed samples from two ecotypes of Desmanthus virgatus (L.) Willd. were collected in Mexico during autumn-winter 2022 and 2023, and analyzed for dry matter, ash (CEN), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) following AOAC methods. Germination tests evaluated the effects of three storage periods, 270, 300, and 350 days, on dormancy. The Pungarabato ecotype had higher CP and EE content (22.25 and 11.94%, respectively) than the Copalillo ecotype (15.95% and 10.20%, respectively), suggesting a superior nutritional value of the Pungarabato ecotype. No significant differences (P≥0.05) in CEN, NDF, ADF, and crude fiber were detected between the ecotypes. Similar secondary compounds between ecotypes identified by high-performance liquid chromatography were gallic acid, quercetin rhamnoside, kaempferol rhamnoside, quercetin glucoside, and kaempferol glucoside. Both ecotypes had moderate germination rates, with higher germination rates after 300 storage days (40.3% for Copalillo and 34.7% for Pungarabato). The findings suggest that D. virgatus could be a viable alternative to improve forage availability in dry seasons and contribute to the sustainability of livestock production systems in the dry tropics. These results contribute to the knowledge of adaptable forages to face seasonality in arid and tropical regions.

Keywords: BDesmanthus virgatus, Chemical composition, Seed dormancy, Secondary compounds.

This study aims to establish an efficient and eco-friendly approach to beet pulp processing through the integration of acid and enzymatic hydrolysis and to explore the potential for cultivating Rhodosporidium diobovatum yeast on the resulting hydrolysate. The combined acid-enzymatic hydrolysis of beet pulp produces hydrolysates containing approximately 80% reducing substances, representing a 40% increase compared to hydrolysates obtained via acid hydrolysis using phosphoric acid alone. The optimal conditions for the initial phosphoric acid hydrolysis stage include a raw material particle size of 0.5cm, a temperature of 170°C, a reaction time of 10min, an acid concentration of 3% (wt.), a liquid-to-solid ratio (hydromodule) of 5.8, a stirring speed of 100rpm, and a pH range of 5.1 to 5.5. The optimal conditions for enzymatic hydrolysis (the second stage) are a temperature of 48°C, a stirring speed of 100min-1, a pH ranging from 5.1 to 5.5 in the presence of buffer solution, a hydromodule of 8, and a duration of 12h. Fermentolysate is a more favorable nutritional source for the yeast Rhodosporidium diobovatum compared to acid hydrolysate, resulting in a yeast biomass yield of approximately 75% and a residual raw material content of no more than 25-30%. Thus, integrated processing of sugar beet production waste can yield long-term economic and environmental benefits, facilitating the management of large quantities of waste, mitigating the risk of disruption to natural systems, and producing essential biotechnological products.

Keywords: Plant waste; Beet pulp; Acid-enzymatic hydrolysis; Biotechnology; Rhodosporidium diobovatum.

Fusarium wilt is a significant disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht, leading to severe crop damage in bok choy (Brassica campestris var. chinensis L.). Biological control, which uses biotic entities to reduce pathogen inoculum density, has emerged as a potentially effective method for managing plant diseases. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combinations of antagonistic agents in controlling Fusarium wilt in bok choy. The fungal inoculum of F. oxysporum was sourced from bok choy, which showed typical symptoms of Fusarium wilt. The isolated pathogen was characterized based on its morphological and physiological properties, purified, and stored on PDA media for further testing. The antagonistic isolates were preserved on PDA slants for Trichoderma harzianum TR-01 and Gliocladium virens GR-01 and King’s B medium for Pseudomonas fluorescence PR-01. The in vitro antagonistic assay was conducted using the dual culture method, while the antagonistic agent’s field tests were applied one week before planting, alongside the manure application. The combination of antagonistic agents in the H treatment significantly reduced the incidence of damping-off both before (7.00%) and after appearing at the ground level (7.16%) compared to the control treatment (A) (P<0.01). This treatment also extended the disease incubation period to 5 days, showing an increase of 32.86% compared to controls, who showed only 3 days of incubation (P<0.01). The pathogen population in treatment H was recorded to be 39.25% lower than in treatment A. In addition, there was an increase in the number of healthy plants by 14%, from 80 plants (A) to 94 plants (H) (P<0.01). In vitro dual culture assays revealed inhibition rates of 45.56% for T. harzianum, 41.11% for G. virens, and 32.22% for P. fluorescens (P<0.05). Field trials showed that the combined application of these agents significantly reduced disease incidence and improved plant health and yield. The antagonist potential assay of three antagonistic isolates against Fusarium oxysporum demonstrated that the combined application of Gliocladium virens GR-01, Trichoderma harzianum TR-01, and Pseudomonas fluorescens PR-01 was most effective in suppressing the pathogen. This integrated biocontrol treatment significantly reduced pre- and post-emergence damping-off, lowered pathogen populations, increased the number of healthy plants, and enhanced plant growth and yield. Overall, this approach offers a sustainable and effective alternative to conventional synthetic fungicides for managing F. oxysporum–induced diseases.

Keywords: Fusarium oxysporum; Trichoderma harzianum; Gliocladium virens; Pseudomonas; Fluorescence; bok choy; Prevention strategies, Biological control agents.

The study evaluated the influence of genetic variants and thermal processing on the release of β-casomorphins-7 (BCM-7) during simulated in-vitro digestion. Cross-bred Karan Fries bovine animals were segregated into A1A1 and A2A2 genotypes for the procurement of pure A1 and A2 milk. BCM-7-like peptides were detected only after gastrointestinal digestion from both genotypes, using reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). The concentration of these peptides was 74-146ng/mL in digestive extracts of A2 variants, which was significantly lower than 900- 1612 ng/mL in A1 variants. Pasteurization led to a reduction in peptide levels to 46-79ng/mL and 340-1132ng/mL in extracts from A2 and A1 variants, respectively. Upon sterilization, a marked decrease in peptide formation was observed, 84.79% in A1 and 84.56% in A2 milk. This indicated a strong negative correlation between heat severity and BCM-7-like peptide formation. Mass spectrometry analysis of selected RP-HPLC fractions confirmed the presence of BCM-7-like peptides in both variants, with a higher specificity toward histidine at position 67 compared to proline.

Keywords: Thermal process, A1 milk, A2 milk, BCM-7, Gastrointestinal digestion.

The study presents an assessment of land resources in the Bokey Orda District of the West Kazakhstan Region using high-resolution satellite image analysis. The results indicate that agricultural land occupies 48.4% of the territory, sandy massifs 40.7%, and solonchak depressions, limans, and saline lakes collectively 10.8%. The calculated coefficient of anthropogenic load was 3.3, which, according to ecological criteria, corresponds to a crisis level of land degradation. The primary drivers of this degradation are overgrazing and the large-scale plowing of virgin lands, leading to reduced agricultural productivity, severe pasture deterioration, and destabilization of sandy soils. To mitigate these challenges, the study recommends selective agricultural land use combined with targeted soil improvement measures. Large-scale sand stabilization, restoration of degraded pastures, and afforestation measures are urgently required. In 2018–2020, forest melioration in the district established 90ha of protective plantations, demonstrating the feasibility of using phytomelioration for sand stabilization. The study recommends integrating remote sensing and GIS-based monitoring for early detection of desertification hotspots and for guiding adaptive land management. In conclusion, remote sensing analysis confirms that Bokey Orda District is experiencing an ecological crisis, and immediate implementation of targeted grazing management, sand stabilization, and dynamic monitoring is necessary to enhance land resilience and prevent irreversible desertification.

Keywords: Desertification; Decoding; Satellite images; Urda Sands; Ryn Desert.

The proteinase inhibitors, such as Kunitz-type inhibitors (KTI), play a vital role in increasing pest resistance in genetically engineered crops. The KTI genes encode proteinase inhibitors known to confer resistance to major pests such as cotton bollworm and whiteflies. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the cotton genome-wide Kunitz Trypsin Inhibitor (KTI) gene family and assess its role in contributing to improving insect pest resistance. A total of 18 KTI genes were identified across three cotton species: Gossypium hirsutum, Gossypium arboreum, and Gossypium raimondii. The genomic structure, evolutionary relationships, and functional implications of these genes were analyzed using advanced bioinformatics tools. The agarose gel electrophoresis confirmed the integrity of the extracted DNA, ensuring the reliability of the analyses. The key genes with differential expression were identified using qRT-PCR. A qRT-PCR analysis was performed on selected genes, including GH_A05G4127.1, GH_D04G0257.1, GH_A05G4126.1 and GH_D04G0256.1 for computational predictions. The results showed that the GH_A05G4127.1 gene exhibited 5-fold relative expression, whereas the other three genes were downregulated compared with the control. This research represents a significant step in characterizing KTI gene function in cotton and demonstrates its potential in conferring insect resistance. The findings contribute to the development of pest-resilient cotton cultivars, offering promising applications for sustainable agriculture.

Keywords: KTI genes, Pest-resistant, Kunitz Trypsin Inhibitor.

Saltwater intrusion poses a serious environmental threat to rice cultivation by impairing growth and increasing sodium (Na⁺) toxicity. In this study, we investigated the effects of rice husk biochar on plant performance, Na⁺ accumulation, and the physiological mechanisms involved in salt stress tolerance. Phitsanulok 2 rice seedlings were grown in saline soil with or without 30% (w/w) rice husk biochar and exposed to 6 or 10dS m-1 of saltwater for 7 days. The survival and growth of the plant were recorded. Root samples were analyzed to elucidate the expression of Na⁺ transport genes (OsCNGC1 and OsHAK7), suberin biosynthesis genes (CYP86A9 and CER6), and suberin content. To evaluate apoplastic (bypass) flow, seedlings were transferred to a tracer solution containing 0.2mM trisodium-8-hydroxy-1,3,6-pyrenetrisulphonic acid (PTS) and 50mM NaCl for 7 days. High saltwater intrusion significantly reduced the survival, shoot height, dry weight, and tiller number, whereas biochar amendment significantly improved these parameters by 7–62%. Na⁺ concentrations in shoots increased under salt stress but were significantly reduced in biochar-treated plants. Although OsCNGC1 and OsHAK7 were elevated under moderate salinity, their expressions were significantly suppressed with biochar. The CYP86A9 and CER6 expressions were significantly elevated in biochar-treated roots under high salinity, while the suberin content increased. Bypass flow of water and Na⁺ also increased under high salinity; however, it reduced significantly after biochar application. In conclusion, rice husk biochar mitigates saltwater intrusion damage in rice by significantly reducing Na⁺ accumulation in shoots through the suppression of both symplastic Na+ transport and apoplastic bypass flow. These findings provide mechanistic insights into the role of biochar in enhancing salt tolerance of rice under saltwater intrusion stress.

Keywords: Bypass flow, Food security, Salinity, Seawater, Sodium transporter.

Intensive grazing leads to lower productivity and quality of pasture herbage and livestock feed shortages. The research goal was to assess the effect of using seasonal and intra-seasonal pasture areas on the yield and energy and protein content of pasture feed. The primary method was an experiment conducted in the semi-arid Bokey Orda District, West Kazakhstan Region. The available pastures in this area were used for the study. These were divided into two groups based on the grazing system applied. One group followed the traditional intensive grazing system, while the other used a rotational system involving alternating seasonal and intra-seasonal pasture areas. The effect of using seasonal and intra-seasonal pasture areas was assessed through the parameters of species composition of pasture herbage, herbage height, projective coverage, green mass yields, and the nutritional value of feed, including energy and protein content. The results show that grazing on seasonal and intra-seasonal pastures resulted in the formation of an herbage layer dominated by more valuable fodder species of pasture plants. The herbage of seasonal and intra-seasonal pastures was higher compared to the control. Reduced load on pastures also resulted in higher grass yields compared to intensive grazing pastures. In conclusion, in addition to better biometric and productivity indicators, the recommended grazing technologies ensured that the feed had stable nutritional value and energy and protein content, crucial elements in livestock diets.

Keywords: Pastures; Sustainable management; Grazing technologies; Grass yields; Nutritional value.

The paper investigates the influence of different types of substrates on biometric characteristics of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) seedlings grown in containers with a closed root system (CRS). Container cassettes were developed according to the authors’ own drawings, and five types of substrates with different structures and compositions, with the addition of organic and mineral components, were used for the experiment. Seedling growth and development were evaluated by key biometric parameters such as plant height and needle length. The germination percentage was also evaluated. As a result of the study, the most optimal composition of the developed substrate was identified. The developed substrate, including local organic components (coniferous fall and humus) and top peat, allowed to reduce the use of peat by 17.5-22.5%. Germination on the experimental substrate averaged 70.9%; seedling height was 3.80±0.30cm and needle length 1.70±0.03cm, comparable to commercial controls. Seedling height differed significantly between the experimental and less effective formulations (p < 0.05), and needle length differed significantly from industrial peat substrates (p < 0.05). By lowering peat consumption, the proposed mix can lessen pressures on peatland ecosystems and carbon stocks, thereby improving the environmental sustainability of reforestation nurseries. Local organic components were sourced from the Chaldai Forest in eastern Pavlodar Region, at the southern margin of the relict ribbon pine forest.

Keywords: Biometric parameters; Container cultivation; Germination rate; Organic additives; Peat reduction; Reforestation.

Capsicum annuum is an economically important crop in Thailand, widely cultivated for culinary, pharmaceutical, and export purposes. However, co-infection by multiple pests, particularly root-knot nematodes (RKN) and spider mites, is increasingly observed under field conditions, forming a complex that severely compromises plant health. In this study, we investigated the interactions of single and mixed infections of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita, M. enterolobii) and spider mites (Tetranychus kanazawai) on three commercial Thai chili cultivars: ‘Ampawa’ (C. annuum cv. Ampawa), ‘Jinda’ (C. annuum cv. Jinda), and ‘Superhot’ (C. annuum cv. Superhot). All cultivars were more susceptible to M. incognita than M. enterolobii (P<0.05). Mixed RKN infections resulted in greater disease severity than single infections; the Jinda cultivar showed the highest root gall index (2.5±0.2) and reproductive factor (Rf = 82.5±14.9). Co-infection with both RKN species increased root damage and exacerbated foliar damage caused by T. Kanazawai, increasing overall disease severity by 47.49% to 64.16% compared to uninfected controls (P<0.05). While Ampawa displayed partial tolerance to spider mite injury under M. enterolobii infection (leaf damage percent = 5.0±5.0), this tolerance diminished under mixed RKN infection (83.3±9.6). These findings highlight the synergistic effects of root and foliar pests, underscoring the importance of considering pest interactions in disease management strategies. Understanding cultivar-specific responses to pest complexes is critical for developing integrated management approaches and breeding programs aimed at improving chili resilience subject to multi-pest pressure.

Keywords: Capsicum annuum, Meloidogyne incognita, Meloidogyne enterolobii, Tetranychus kanazawai, Pest complex, Disease severity.

This study assesses the sustainability of rice farming in Cirebon District, West Java, Indonesia, an area increasingly affected by the expansion of the natural stone industry. Using the RAP-Rice method, an adaptation of the RAPFISH approach based on Multidimensional Scaling (MDS), the study evaluates five sustainability dimensions: economic, social, ecological, technological, and institutional. Data were collected from farmer surveys, field observations, interviews, and government reports. Results show that all five dimensions fall within the moderate sustainability range, with index scores between 51.55 and 52.39. Leverage analysis identifies key factors driving sustainability, including profitability, youth involvement, irrigation maintenance, organic fertilization, and access to extension services. Monte Carlo simulations confirm the robustness and consistency of the MDS results, with low stress values and high RSQ scores across dimensions. These findings underscore the need for integrated policies that focus on internal system improvements to enhance agricultural resilience in industrially encroached areas. The study offers practical insights for policymakers and local governments seeking to support rice farmers through infrastructure, institutional, and environmental interventions.

Keywords: RAP-rice, Sustainability assessment, Rice farming, Industrial encroachment, Cirebon.

Clammy inula (Inula viscosa L.) is a native Meditranean perennial herb/shrub. It’s antifungal activity against different plant pathogens has been proven by several studies; however, none of these studies investigated the antifungal activity of green nanomaterials extracted from I. viscosa against controlling plant pathogens. This research investigated the antifungal activity of green nanomaterials, specifically nickel and zinc nanoferrites derived from I. viscosa (interactions), against controlling F. oxysporum. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of nanomaterials derived from both leaves and pappus of I. viscosa, and to assess the synergistic effects of combining these nanomaterials with I. viscosa extracts against F. oxysporum. Treatments, nanomaterials, and their interactions significantly influenced fungal growth rate and colony inhibition. The lowest average fungal growth rate (34.1%) was observed with the combination of I. viscosa leaves extract and NiFe2O4 nanomaterials, while the highest growth rate (68.5%) was recorded with leaf extract alone. The highest average inhibition rate of fungal colony growth (50.2%) was also observed with the interaction between leaves extract and NiFe2O4. The results were supported by UV spectra that confirmed the occurrence of nanoferrites. Clammy inula contains active bioingredients that are considered superior molecules for cell penetration. These findings suggest that the combination of plant leaf extract and green nanomaterials exhibits a synergistic antifungal effect against F. oxysporum.

Keywords: Nanoferrites; Nanomaterials, UV-Visible; Synthesis.

This study investigates the use of winter cereals as cover crops for the establishment of perennial leguminous grasses (alfalfa, sainfoin, and yellow sweet clover) in the semi-arid conditions of Southeast Kazakhstan. The primary objective was to assess the agronomic performance and fodder productivity of these legumes when undersown into winter cereal stands. A field experiment was conducted using nine treatment variants combining three perennial legumes with or without winter triticale or barley cover crops. Biomass yields, phenological development, and metabolizable energy content were assessed over two years. Sowing was done on experimental fields with light chestnut soils, and data were collected following standard agronomic procedures and statistical analysis. Undersowing legumes into winter cereals enabled early crop establishment without additional tillage, enhanced weed suppression, and significantly increased first-year biomass yields (260–340cwt/ha), with the legume proportion ranging from 8.7 to 12.4%. In the second year, perennial legumes previously grown under cover crops exhibited metabolizable energy yields (140.1–149.4GJ/ha) that were comparable to or exceeded those of pure legume stands (136.9–144.1GJ/ha). Importantly, no adverse effects on regrowth or long-term productivity were observed. Using winter cereals as cover crops for perennial legumes is an effective strategy for increasing fodder production, improving weed control, and enhancing resource use efficiency. This method is especially beneficial for weed-infested fields and supports sustainable agriculture in arid and semi-arid environments.

Keywords: Сover crops, Legumes, Sustainable agriculture, Alfalfa, Sweet clover, Sainfoin

Barramundi (Lates calcarifer) is a fish species known for its fast growth, euryhalinity, and adaptability to cultural environments. The quality of feed provided to Barramundi (L. calcarifer) can influence the growth rate of the fish and aquaculture production. However, the price of fishmeal is increasing, and its availability is decreasing, mostly due to the increased demand for its supply. The maggot flour derived from Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae is known to be an important alternative to fishmeal. This study aimed to investigate the impact of replacing fishmeal in artificial feed with different levels of BSF flour on the survival rate and growth performane of Barramundi fingerlings. The treatments were based on the level of maggot flour per 100g of feed and were: A (0%), B (5%), C (10%), D (15%), and E (20%) maggot flour per 100g of feed. The test subjects were Barramundi fingerlings (n=120 fish), with a mean body weight of 3.69±0.27g and a body length of 6.62±0.21cm. Experimental Treatments were fed to fingerlings of the respective group for 49 days. The findings indicated that substituting fish meal with varying levels of maggot flour significantly influenced total feed consumption (TFC), feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER), efficiency of feed utilization (EFU), specific growth rate (SGR), and absolute body weight and body length (P<0.05). However, treatments had no effect on the survival rate of the Barramundi fish. Treatment E (15% maggot flour/100g feed) exhibited superior overall performance, characterized by optimal values for TFC (113.36±3.66g), FCR (1.40±0.15), PER (1.49±0.07), FUE (66.61±2.92%), SGR (2.67±0.14%/day), absolute weight (8.46±1.30g), absolute length (5.09±1.19cm), and survival rate (93.33±11.55%). Notably, Treatment D (20% maggot flour/100g feed) stood out for its exceptional nutritional profile, boasting the highest protein content (63.75±0.05%), fat content (8.24±0.02%), total essential amino acids (57g/100g protein), and eicosapentaenoic acid content (8.35±0.06g/100g fat). These findings suggest that Treatment D is effective in enhancing growth performance, while Treatment E excels in improving the nutritional quality of the feed.

Keywords: Nutrition, Growth, Feed, BSF larvae.

The important variables affecting protein yield in the hydrolysate process are enzyme concentration and digestion duration. Optimal conditions were found to be a bromelain concentration of 0.75% and a digestion time of 6 hours, producing cricket protein hydrolysate containing 22.96% protein. Using cricket protein hydrolysate as the main ingredient in seasoning sauces offers an alternative to meet consumer demand for healthy seasoning products. Cricket sauces were formulated with varying amounts of cricket protein hydrolysate, salt, and low-sodium soy sauce (59.2, 1.7, and 4.2% respectively) and evaluated for their physical properties and sensory acceptance. The sauce made from cricket protein hydrolysate exhibited a high protein content (4.55%) compared to commercial oyster sauce, along with low fat (0.49%) and low sodium levels (165.9mg or 2.81%), meeting the physicochemical properties of the Thai Industrial Standard for oyster sauce (TIS 1317-2538). The application of 59.2% cricket protein hydrolysate in the seasoning sauce to mimic oyster sauce did not adversely affect taste, flavor, or overall acceptance. Therefore, cricket protein hydrolysis effectively increases protein content while reducing sodium levels in traditional oyster sauce formulations.

Keywords: Cricket sauce, Digestion time, Sensory acceptance, Low sodium.

Serious climate changes and new patterns of chilling durations are warned about by the rising temperatures recorded in the Mediterranean basin including Jordan. Therefore, this study sought to determine the appropriate crop-site relationship by examining the timing of bud beak, flowering and vegetative growth, and fruiting in three apricot cultivars for two growing seasons in an orchard situated in the Mafraq governorate. In the first growing season (2022/2023), the cumulative chilling hours (˂7°C) were 880 hours; while in the second growing season (2023/2024), which coincided with higher winter temperatures, it fell down to 741 hours. Results of the forcing solution conducted in the first season showed that regardless of the location of the flower bud on the shoot, 50% blooming could be induced at room temperature after at least 500 hours of cold exposure at 4°C. These results aligned well with those of the experimental field and showed that ‘Nestor’ cultivar was the earliest, whereas ‘Mogador’ was the last cultivar to bloom. Parallel with the warming observed in the second season, a delay was observed in bud beak and subsequent phenological stages accompanied by canopy adjustment of apricot cultivars. The findings showed that ‘Nestor’ retained more fruits at harvest than ‘Mogador’ in terms of the number and weight of fruits per branch after fruit set. This study concluded that Jordan is a hotspot for climate change and cultivars as ‘Nestor’ could be suitable for current crop-site relationship.

Keywords: Bud break, Climate change, Phenological stages, Prunus armeniaca L., Global warming.

The study evaluates a newly developed granular organo-mineral fertilizer (OMF) for cultivated lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) of Russian breeding—‘Kostromichka’, ‘Kostromskaya Rozovaya’, ‘Rossiyanochka’, and ‘Rubin’. The OMF contains NPK 8–8–8 with micronutrients (Cu 0.4%, Fe 0.5%, Zn 0.2%) and vermicompost inoculated with spore-forming bacteria of high biological activity. Experiments were conducted on a high-moor peat substrate (pH 2.9–3.4) under the agroclimatic conditions of Moscow (Non-Chernozem Zone of Russia). The factorial design comprised four cultivars × four fertilizer treatments, with three replicates and 10 plants per replicate. Data were analyzed by one- and two-way ANOVA (α = 0.05). Application of the developed granulated OMF improved the peat substrate’s agrochemical status and produced the highest fruit yields (412.3–988.5gm⁻²), exceeding alternative fertilizers— a complex mineral product (“Rastvorin for Ericaceae”) and a commercial organo-mineral product (“Gumi Omi – Acid-Loving Shrubs”)—by 1.7–9.0%. The most favorable morphophysiological traits were recorded in September under OMF, including photosynthetic productivity (4.85mg CO₂ dm⁻²h⁻¹), leaf area (2.50dm² plant⁻¹), total root surface area (73.5m²), effective absorptive root surface (60.2m²), root biomass (35.8g), and leaf biomass (51.4g). Relative to comparators, OMF increased lingonberry yield by 1.6–9.0% and enhanced fruit quality, raising dry matter by 1.6–2.0%, soluble sugars by 0.8–1.5%, and vitamin C by 1.3–2.2mg 100g⁻¹ fresh weight. Overall, the developed OMF ensured an adequate and season-long supply of macro- and micronutrients to V. vitis-idaea, thereby improving plant performance and productivity on peat substrates in the Non-Chernozem region.

Keywords: Fertilizers, Lingonberry, Vaccinium vitis-idaea, Berry plants, Cultivar, Substrate, Peat, Soil micro-biology, Microorganisms.

Feed fermentation enhances nutritional quality, reduces feed costs, and mitigates pollution when processed with suitable microorganisms. This study investigated the growth and potential of three bacterial isolates from bioslurry—Exiguobacterium aurantiacum, Bacillus indriensis, and Bacillus cereus—as fermentation agents to improve the nutritional quality of Ceratophyllum sp. as a raw material for fish feed. Bacterial growth measurements conducted using spectrophotometry revealed a quadratic growth pattern with an R² value approaching 1. Peak growth was observed at 20.5–30.5h. The fermentation process, conducted over 24, 48, and 72h, significantly increased the protein and ash content while reducing the crude fiber and nitrogen-free extract (NFE) levels. The highest protein content was recorded after fermentation by B. cereus for 72h (34.80±0.007%), representing a 47.6% increase from the initial value. The most substantial reduction in crude fiber was observed after 72h of fermentation with B. indriensis, where it decreased from 14.38 to 4.26% (a reduction of 70.4%), indicating cellulolytic enzyme activity. The ash content increased, reflecting the release of essential minerals. Thus, fermentation using commensal bacteria from bioslurry is an effective strategy to optimize Ceratophyllum sp. as a high-nutrient and environmentally sustainable alternative feed source.

Keywords: Bioslurry, Ceratophyllum sp., Fermentation, Growth Bacteria, Protein.

Pyometra is a common issue and can progress into many conditions due to late diagnosis and improper post-operative care. Therefore, the research team conducted this study to discuss the post-operative management of pyometra in dogs using blood profiles, Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), collected from a total of 15 dogs. In a healthy control group (n=10), histological changes can be seen in 5 different levels, including normal, cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH), CEH with mild endometritis, mild endometritis, and chronic endometritis. In a group of dogs with pyometra (n=5), two levels of uterine changes were observed: cystic CEH with mild endometritis, and endometrial hemorrhage. The results of the microscopic examination relate to changes in other systemic parameters, including the blood profile, IL-6, and SDMA. The result of the blood profile showed an increase in average white blood cells and total protein at both pre-and post-operation. However, there were no significant differences in IL-6 between pre-and post-operation in both groups of dogs (P=0.5, P=0.19). The pre- and post-operative SDMA levels were not significantly different in pyometra dogs (P=0.58), but significantly different in healthy dogs (P=0.007). Additionally, the results of bacterial culture and drug administration, antibiotics used at the hospital are not effective against some bacteria found in the uterine body – Enterobacter cloacae ssp. cloacae and Klebsiella pneumoniae ssp. pneumoniae. Owing to the results of the mentioned parameters, bacterial culture, drug sensitivity, and histological examination should be performed to help design the treatment strategy and antibiotics used, to manage post-surgical care for both healthy and pyometra dogs properly.

Keywords: CEH, Endometritis, IL-6, Pyometra, SDMA.

Peanut and ginger are among the most widely used ingredients in Indonesian cuisine, including in Semarang City. These commodities are primarily cultivated in the uphill areas of Semarang and distributed to consumers in downhill regions through three government-managed traditional market categories. Given its role in daily consumption, it is essential to ensure safe distribution. This study aimed to analyze the differences and correlations among market categories in terms of moisture content, temperature, physical quality, and sanitary hygiene, as well as the interrelationships between these parameters in peanuts and ginger sold in traditional markets in Semarang. This study uses 87 samples from 29 markets. The findings revealed significant differences (P<0.05) in hygiene sanitation for peanuts across market categories, whereas the other parameters showed no significant variation (P>0.05). In contrast, gingers exhibited significant differences (P<0.05) in moisture content, physical quality, and sanitary hygiene, with temperature being the only parameter with no significant variation (P>0.05) among the market categories. Furthermore, correlation analysis indicated significant relationships (P<0.05) between moisture content and temperature, physical quality, and hygiene sanitation as well as between physical quality and hygiene sanitation for both peanut and ginger commodities.

Keywords: Traders, Moisture content, Temperature, Physical quality, Sanitary hygiene.

Wheat rust, both leaf and stem rust, is a major threat to global food security because of its severe effect on crop yields. Although considerable advances have been made in its epidemiology, resistance mechanisms, and pathogen biology, many wheat varieties do not express the same degree of resistance under natural field conditions as under artificial inoculation. This research aimed to evaluate the structural and molecular resistance traits of 11 Kazakh-selected wheat varieties under natural infection in the field. These varieties are widely cultivated in Kazakhstan and play a significant role in regional food production. The study assessed resistance levels and productivity traits of the selected wheat varieties under natural infection conditions. Environmental factors and infection pressure were analyzed in relation to structural plant traits. Correlations between plant height and productivity components such as yield, number of grains per spike, grain weight per spike, and thousand kernel weight were evaluated. Molecular markers for resistance genes Lr21, Lr24, and Lr35 were also examined in relation to yield-related characteristics. Findings indicated inconsistent resistance levels to leaf and stem rust among varieties despite similar numbers of resistance genes in their genomes. Environmental conditions and infection pressure influenced structural traits, with negative correlations observed between plant height and yield (-0.54), grains per spike (-0.33), grain weight per spike (-0.60), and thousand kernel weight (-0.41). The resistance genes Lr21, Lr24, and Lr35 were associated with important yield traits such as grain weight, spike length, and grain number. These results emphasize the importance of resistance evaluation under natural infection, especially for varieties critical to food security. While further research with larger sample sizes is needed, the preliminary screening revealed variability in resistance levels and their association with yield formation. This study suggests the potential to reduce chemical control by selecting naturally resistant varieties adapted to field environments.

Keywords: Spring bread wheat; Leaf rust; Stem rust; Resistance genes; Lr; Sr; Genetic markers.

The growth performance and metabolic capacity of Beauveria bassiana B14532 were assessed on various Palm Oil Mill Waste (POMW)-based agar formulated from six residues: decanter cake (DC), palm oil mill effluent (POME), empty fruit bunch (EFB), oil-palm frond (OPF), oil-palm trunk (OPT), and palm kernel cake (PKC). Radial growth and conidial yield varied significantly among substrates, correlating with differences in C:N ratio, total sugars, and nutritional compositions. EFB, DC, and OPF facilitated the greatest radial growth (42.45–44.75mm) and the highest conidial concentrations (up to 6.53×109conidia mL-1), while PKC exhibited the least growth. For lignocellulolytic assays, the fungus was cultured under submerged-state fermentation (SMF) using carbon sources derived from each POMW to assess enzyme activity: CMCase peaked at 4.98U mL-1 on EFB and 4.40U mL-1 on OPT at 144h, while xylanase reached 48.30U mL-1 on OPF at 120h. Principal component analysis indicated that the initial three components accounted for 87.57% of the total variation, correlating nutrient availability and sugar content with growth, and conidiation efficiency. Balanced C:N ratios and sufficient carbon are key for fungal growth, while substrate composition influences enzyme activity and conidiation; B. bassiana B14532 efficiently converts agro-industrial wastes into biomass and conidia for sustainable pest management and biomass valorization.

Keywords: Palm Oil Mill Waste, By-Products, Mycoinsecticide, Beauveria bassiana.

Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 1 (STAT1) is a crucial transcription factor in interferon signaling pathways, playing a vital role in immune responses against viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections. This study aimed to identify polymorphisms in the STAT1 gene among river buffalo populations in Indonesia to assess genetic diversity and its potential for improving disease resistance and productivity. A total of 100 river buffaloes from four regions (Lubuk Pakam, Pancur Batu, Sunggal, and Tapanuli Utara) were analyzed. Genomic DNA was extracted from hair samples, and three SNPs (g.15856G>T, g.16211C>T, and g.16252C>G) were genotyped using PCR and Sanger sequencing. Genetic parameters, including allele frequency, heterozygosity, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE), and Polymorphism Information Content (PIC), were calculated. Results revealed that SNP g.16211C>T had the highest PIC value (0.302), indicating its usefulness as a genetic marker, though it deviated from HWE, suggesting influences from selection or genetic drift. The UPGMA dendrogram clustered Lubuk Pakam and Pancur Batu together, while Sunggal and Tapanuli Utara formed a separate group, reflecting genetic relationships among populations. Further research is needed to explore the functional implications of these polymorphisms and their role in immune regulation.

Keywords: Genetics diversity, STAT1 gene, River buffalo, North Sumatra.

The article is devoted to the study of the interrelationships between the structural characteristics of the soil, agrochemical regime and elemental composition. The object of the study was two variants: control (C0) and fertilized (P20). It has been established that the application of fertilizers helps to stabilize the granulometric composition, increase the content of humus and total nitrogen, as well as reduce electrical conductivity in the lower horizons. In the southern chernozems of the Akmola region of Northern Kazakhstan, where over the past 16 years’ experience has been conducted using traditional technology for the region, two soil sections were laid and their morphological description was performed. The interrelations between the granulometric composition of the soil, the content of humus, nitrogen, electrical conductivity and the main cations (Ca2⁺, Mg2⁺, Na⁺, K⁺) in the upper horizons have been studied. Correlation, regression, and variance analysis was performed for two experimental variants (C0 and P20). The results showed that the nitrogen content is closely related to humus (r = 0.91), and the electrical conductivity is related to the number of cations (r = 0.88). Regression models explained more than 80% of the variation in nitrogen content and 77% of the changes in electrical conductivity. The analysis of variance revealed statistically significant differences between the C0 and P20 variants in key indicators. The results obtained confirm the influence of granulometric composition and fertilizers on soil fertility. The results demonstrate that fertilization ensures a more uniform distribution of exchange cations and prevents the accumulation of salts in the lower part of the profile, increasing the agrochemical stability of the soil.

Keywords: Granulometric composition of soils, Fertilizers, Humus, Nitrogen, Cations, Electrical conductivity, Correlation analysis

In Jordan, the production of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) is important for both food security and rural livelihoods. However, farmers face a number of problems, such as high labor cost, production efficiency, and overall farm profitability. Also, many farmers still plant potato manually which increases their input costs. The economic differences between mechanical and manual potato planting across three northern provinces, which are the Northern Jordan Valley, Irbid, and Al-Mafraq (Bal’ama) over the period 2023–2025 are compared and examined in this study. The following are the study’s goals: 1. To analyze the socio-economic characteristics of potato farmers, 2. To determine the main cost factors and productivity levels in both planting types (manually or mechanically), 3. To test the statistical significance of the differences in cost and productivity depending on the type of planting, 4. To identify the main obstacles and challenges that potato farmers face. A structured survey was conducted targeting potato farmers (n=50) using one or both planting types. Differences in planting method (one ridge or two ridges), water volume applied, labor costs, pesticide use, harvesting costs, productivity, and challenges were evaluated using SPSS version 28 (α = 0.05). According to the study, manual planting had a substantially higher average labor cost per ha (281.15USD) than mechanical planting (216.58USD), and total planting costs were about 124% higher for manual systems (771.35USD/ha vs. 343.96USD/ha). Mechanized planting reduced water use and planting cost by 29.7 and 55.4%, respectively. Furthermore, mechanized planting was associated with fewer production challenges, although differences in yield were not statistically significant. Also, manual farmers reported a higher average difficulty score, indicating a statistically significant difference in the degree of difficulty encountered. Overall, the findings suggest that mechanization enhances cost efficiency and resource utilization while reducing dependency on manual labor. For farmers and agricultural extension officers, these results underscore the practical value of promoting mechanized potato planting to increase profitability and sustainability in North Jordan’s potato sector.

Keywords: Potato Planting, Mechanization, Manual Planting, Economic Feasibility, Productivity, Challenges, Jordan.

Risk preferences play a crucial role in farmers’ decision-making regarding organic transition. Particularly in organic livestock farming, risk-tolerant farmers are more likely to adopt environmentally sustainable production practices. Using original survey data from livestock farmers in Kazakhstan, this study empirically examines how risk preferences influence and interact with multidimensional contextual factors to affect the intention to transition to organic practices. The results indicate that risk preferences significantly enhance farmers’ intention to transition to organic farming. Further analysis reveals that multidimensional contextual factors—including intrinsic attitudes, resource capacity, external opportunities, and social legitimacy—moderate this relationship. These factors strengthen the positive effect of risk preferences on transition intention. Heterogeneity analysis shows that the impact of risk preferences is more pronounced among larger-scale and specialized producers.
In contrast, it is weaker among small-scale farmers facing resource constraints and those engaged in mixed livestock systems with greater operational complexity. The findings underscore the importance of the interplay between farmers’ psychological traits and external contexts in driving the transition to organic agriculture. Policymakers can target support toward farmers with high-risk preferences and optimise their operational environment across attitudinal, capacitative, opportunistic, and legitimacy dimensions to precisely stimulate transition motivation, thereby effectively promoting the sustainable development of organic livestock farming.

Keywords: Risk preferences, Transition intention, Organic livestock farming, Moderating effects, Kazakhstan.

Agricultural residues can be transformed into biochar that enhances crop growth and reduces dependence on chemical fertilizers. In this study, the effect of rice husk biochar, biol from guinea pig manure, and commercial compost on the germination, growth and yield of chives (Allium schoenoprasum) was evaluated in 100-day pot experiments conducted under a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 10 treatments and four blocks. Local soil was amended with biochar, compost, or biol at proportions of 2, 4, or 6%. The evaluated variables included germination percentage and growth-related parameters such as plant height, length, number of leaves, number of tillers, root surface area, and fresh weight. Results showed that rice husk biochar, particularly at 6%, increased fresh weight by 190%, plant height by 34%, and root surface area by 75% compared to the control, demonstrating its superior effect over compost, biol, and the non-fertilized soil. Compost also contributed positively, mainly improving germination and shoot growth, while biol showed limited benefits under the tested conditions. Overall, rice husk biochar demonstrated the greatest potential as a sustainable soil amendment to valorize agricultural residues, enhance fertility, and support circular economy strategies for chive production.

Keywords: Allium spp., Organic amendments, Soil health, Circular economy, Sustainable agriculture.