Agronomía Mesoamericana

Reviewers Volume 35, 2024 Agronomía Mesoamericana

Nancy Patricia León Ulate — 2025-04-28

Chemical and sensory attributes of meat from chickens fed with Roystonea regia nuts

Madeleidy Martínez-Pérez — 2025-06-04

Introduction. In previous studies related to the inclusion of Palmiche flour, nuts of the royal palm (Roystonea regia) in the diet of broiler chickens, it was observed that it improved quality indicators related to lipid composition in thighs, legs, breasts and abdominal fat. Objective. To evaluate the effect of palmiche flour consumption on chemical and sensorial attributes of chicken meat. Materials and methods. The study was carried out at the Institute of Animal Science, located in the province of Mayabeque, Cuba in the months of January to February 2023 for 35 days. Forty-eight day old male animals were used. The experimental treatments consisted of the control group and the inclusion of 5, 10 and 15 % of royal palm nuts. Moisture and ash content were determined in thighs and breast. In the control and 15 % treatments, qualitative analysis of the attributes color, smell, flavor, dryness, hardness and juiciness was carried out. The overall quality was quantitatively evaluated. Results. Humidity increased in the treatments that included 5 and 10 % of royal palm nuts compared to the control and 15 %, which did not differ significantly from each other (69.92 and 70.45 vs 65.70 and 65.71 %, respectively). Flavor intensity and overall quality were improved by including the 15 % royal palm nuts in thighs and breast. Conclusions. The consumption of royal palm nuts at 15 % did not affect the chemical attributes of the meat, nevertheless, it improves the sensory characteristics, flavor and overall quality of thighs and breasts of broiler meat.

Kinematic subpopulation structure variations in cryopreserved semen from dairy cattle

Juan M. Solís — 2025-06-04

Introduction. In the dairy industry, frozen-thawed semen is crucial for artificial insemination and genetic improvement of livestock. Objective. To evaluate the variation in the kinematic subpopulation structure of frozen-thawed semen in Jersey and Holstein breeds using a CASA-mot system. Materials and methods. The study was carried out from April to November 2023, at the Animal Reproduction Laboratory (AndroTEC), located at the Campus Tecnológico Local San Carlos, Alajuela, Costa Rica. Eight animals from the Holstein and Jersey breeds were used, and nine doses of frozen-thawed semen per animal were analyzed for each breed. A total of 72 semen doses from eight bulls (four from each breed) were thawed at 37° C for 30 s. Sperm motility and kinematic variables were analyzed using CASA-mot (Computer-Assisted Semen Analysis) technology. Results. The Jersey breed showed higher percentages of total motile, progressive motile, and rapid spermatozoa compared to the Holstein breed (P < 0.05). Principal component analysis revealed two significant factors explaining 87.5 % of the total variance in kinematic variables. The kinematics variables between sperm subpopulations (SPs) showed differences (P < 0.05) in both breeds. The subpopulation SP2 was the fastest, with higher values in curvilinear speed (VCL), straight-line speed (VSL) and average trajectory speed (VAP) for Holstein and Jersey bulls. Conclusions. Kinematics differences were found between the subpopulations identified for both breeds. The kinematic patterns of the subpopulations present in the ejaculate could influence fertility and reproductive performance.

Toxicity of glyphosate in snow pea (Pisum sativum) on sandy-loam soil with a bacterial consortium

Kevin Cruz-Inca — 2025-06-04

Introduction. Glyphosate (GLI) is a common herbicide that, when applied in excess, can affect both broadleaf weeds and weeds. Plant growth promoting bacteria can promote GLI resistance and protection of agricultural crops. Objective. To evaluate the toxicity of GLI on the root, stem and root + stem of Pisum sativum (snow pea) in sandy loam soil, with the presence of the bacteria Ochrobactrum anthropi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa individually and in a bacterial consortium made up of both microorganisms. Materials and methods. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse in Lima, Peru. A completely randomized design (CRD) was performed with 32 treatments, whose soil was mixed with GLI and subjected to edaphological analysis. Four treatments were controls, 12 contained soil with O. anthropi and P. aeruginosa individually and in a bacterial consortium, and 16 treatments also contained P. sativum. Results. P. sativum exposed to 8.71 mL L^-1 and 17.42 mL L^-1 of GLI showed a significant reduction in growth, particularly in fresh shoot and root biomass, but the application of a bacterial consortium reversed this effect, improving growth. GLI altered soil pH and electrical conductivity, although organic matter did not change. Soil available potassium increased with GLI, but bacteria reduced this effect, and available phosphorus increased in the presence of P. sativum and GLI at 17.42 mL L^-1. Conclusions. GLI at the highest concentrations affected shoot and root growth of P. sativum, but bacterial inoculation attenuated this effect and modified soil properties. This underlines the relevance of the interaction between herbicide, microorganisms, and soil parameters in agriculture.

Isolation of rumen cellulolytic bacterial consortia and their in vitro simulation of rumen microbiota manipulation

Paulino Sánchez-Santillán — 2025-06-04

Introduction. Isolation and manipulation of rumen cellulolytic bacterial consortia (CBC) improve fiber degradation under in vitro conditions. Objective. To obtain CBC from different substrates and to simulate the manipulation of ruminal microbiota (RM) by means of an in vitro gas production test. Objective. Obtain CBC from different substrates and simulate the manipulation of ruminal microbiota (RM) by in vitro gas production test. Materials and methods. The experiment was conducted from January to June 2024 at the Autonomous University of Guerrero, Cuajinicuilapa, Guerrero, Mexico. CBC were obtained from rumen fluid in selective culture media using ground sawdust (CBCa), Mulatto grass stalk (CBCt) and ground Mulatto grass (CBCm) as substrate. Two in vitro assays were performed: a) Evaluation of obtained CBCs and, b) Addition of CBCs to MR. In both, partial biogas production was measured from 0 to 24 h, 24 to 48 h and 48 to 72 h, as well as cumulative production. Dry matter degradation (DMD) and cellulolytic enzyme activity (CEA) were measured at 24, 48 and 72 h. The variables were analyzed in a design based on the design of the CBCs. The variables were analyzed in a completely randomized design. Results. In trial 1, CBCa produced higher cumulative biogas (p<0.05); DMD at 24 and 72 h was higher for CBCa (p<0.05); DMD at 48 h and AEC showed no difference between CBCs (p>0.05). In trial 2 they showed that the addition of CBCs to the RM did not modify the partial biogas production, the DMS at 24, 48 and 72 h, nor the CEA at 24 and 48 h (p>0.05); but the addition of CBCm increased 13.8 and 36.3 % the cumulative biogas production and CEA at 72 h. Conclusion. The CBCs obtained from the mulatto grass allow manipulation of the RM after in vitro simulation under the specific conditions of the present study.

Molecular methods for the specific detection of Colletotrichum sansevieriae

Rebeca Sandoval-Ruiz — 2025-06-04

Introducción. La antracnosis de Sansevieria, causada por Colletotrichum sansevieriae, representa un riesgo significativo para el cultivo y la exportación de esta planta ornamental. Los métodos efectivos y rápidos de identificación de este patógeno son cruciales para implementar medidas de control que prevengan su propagación a áreas no infectadas. Objetivo. Implementar y optimizar métodos moleculares para la identificación rápida y confiable de C. sansevieriae. Materiales y métodos. Durante 2016, se analizó un fragmento del gen β-tubulina-2 (β-tub2) de C. sansevieriae aislado de una finca local en Alajuela, Costa Rica. Se implementó PCR-RFLP del fragmento parcial del gen β-tubulina-2 (β-tub2) con la enzima MseI (Tru1I). Además, se aplicaron cebadores específicos para la detección de C. sansevieriae y análisis de PCR-RFLP del fragmento amplificado. Resultados. La digestión produjo de manera consistente un patrón de restricción de dos bandas específico para C. sansevieriae. Los cebadores diseñados amplificaron con éxito un fragmento de 383 pb del β-tub2 de todas las cepas de C. sansevieriae probadas. No se observó amplificación de otras especies de Colletotrichum dentro de los complejos C. gloesporioides y C. acutatum, ni de aislamientos de C. truncatum y Fusarium oxysporum. Además, este sitio de restricción, ubicado dentro del amplicón generado por los cebadores específicos para C. sansevieriae, permitió la validación exitosa de la especie mediante digestión. Conclusiones. Ambos métodos basados en PCR demostraron ser lo suficientemente sensibles como para detectar C. sansevieriae en hojas de Sansevieria infectadas de manera natural y artificial sin necesidad de aislar el patógeno en cultivos puros, lo que hace que el proceso diagnóstico sea más eficiente y accesible.

Evaluation of ammonium nitrate and flaming for weed management in coffee

Mary Pamela Portuguez García — 2025-03-31

Introduction. The weeds compete for water, light, and space with the coffee. Therefore, sustainable management practices must be carried out. Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of weed management with ammonium nitrate and flaming in a coffee system. Materials and methods. This work was carried out from September 26, 2022 to January 10, 2023 at La Hilda coffee farm in San Pedro de Poás, Alajuela, Costa Rica. Two alternative weed control treatments were applied jointly, the first was ammonium nitrate diluted in water, at three doses (0, 150 and 300 kg/ha) and 15 days after spraying (dda) with this fertilizer, flaming was applied at three doses (0, 60 and 120 kg/ha). Applications were made on weeds present in coffee rows following a split-plot design, the large plot was made up of the ammonium nitrate doses, while the small plots were applied with the flaming doses. A chemical control was included with the herbicide glyphosate, also applied with flaming. Each treatment was randomly assigned and replicated six times. Results. The broad leaves were moderately damaged at 25 days after application of nitrate and 10 days after flaming. Both doses of ammonium nitrate slightly damaged Commelina diffusa, and the highest dose of ammonium nitrate without flaming caused moderate damage to broadleaf weeds; flaming without ammonium nitrate provided moderate initial damage to narrowleaf weeds. Conclusions. The herbicidal effect of ammonium nitrate was dependent on flaming but only on broadleaf weeds, C. diffusa was successfully controlled with glyphosate and flaming.

Effect of aqueous extracts of quinoa mojuelo (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) on arupo plants (Chionanthus pubescens Kunth)

Hugo Alejandro Castro-Albán — 2025-06-04

Introduction. Chionanthus pubescens Kunth is an endemic tree of southern Ecuador with ornamental uses due to its pink inflorescence in the villages of the region. Objective. To evaluate the effect of aqueous extracts of quinoa mojuelo on the growth of arupo plants (Chionanthus pubescens Kunth) and the incidence of Fusarium sp. Materials and methods. The test was carried out in the province of Chimborazo, Ecuador, during the year 2022.The aqueous extracts of quinoa mullein were obtained using the Soxhlet method, and their concentrations were determined by UV-VIS spectrophotometry. A completely randomized block design with a bifactor arrangement was used, with three levels for factor A (aqueous extract of mojuelo: mother extract (100 %), diluted 50 %, 75 % in sterile distilled water; v/v, and three levels for factor B, (frequency of application: every 7, 14 and 21 days), in total ten treatments (including an absolute control) with three repetitions each. They were evaluated in ten plants selected at random by treatment the morphological variables (height, number of leaves per plant and stem diameter), as well as the incidence of Fusarium sp. Results. The results showed that the concentrations of 50 and 75 % aqueous extract of mojuelo, applied weekly, achieved the best morphological development and the lowest percentage of affectation by Fusarium sp. in arupo (C. pubescens) plants, reflected in the height (16.3 cm), number of leaves (17.8), stem diameter (6.5 cm) and the incidence of the disease (50 %). Conclusions. The aqueous extracts obtained from quinoa mojuelo (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) applied to arupo plants (Chionanthus pubescens Kunth) in the nursery, reduce the incidence of Fusarium wilt and promote growth in the first stages of development.

Effect of Bacillus spp. as a biostimulants for Brassica oleracea var. capitata and Brassica oleracea var. sabellica microgreens

Aldo Gutiérrez-Chávez — 2025-03-31

Introduction. The Bacillus genus has been used as a biostimulant with positive effects on crop yield and quality. However, there are few studies on its application in microgreens. Objective. To evaluate the effect of B. subtilis (BsC4 and BsPC) and B. thuringiensis (Bt24) as biostimulants on the germination and growth of red cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) and kale (B. oleracea var. sabellina) microgreens indoor. Materials and Methods. The study was conducted at the Autonomous University of Chihuahua, Mexico, in 2023. Four treatments were assessed: Bt24, BsC4, BsPC, and seedlings without microorganisms (control) on red cabbage and kale seeds, under a completely randomized design (n = 5). Germination was monitored in the first trial, and microgreens development was assessed in the secund. After 15 days, morphological variables, photosynthetic pigments, nitrate content, quality, and yield were measured. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey tests (p < 0.05). Results. For kale, Bt24 improved germination speed (31.17 %) and reduced germination time (4.61 %), with no significant effect on red cabbage. In kale, yield increased (62,60 %) with Bt24, particularly in fresh biomass (63.3 %) and cotyledon area (61.57 %). In cabbage, BsC4 increased yield (44.31 %) and improved fresh biomass (42.21 %) and cotyledon area (50.57 %). Nitrate content was highest in lake with BsPC (138.30 %) and in red cabbage with Bt24 (65.14 %), without exceeding safe limits. For visual quality, both crops achieved the “Good” and “Excellent” categories, with no differences between treatments. Conclusions. These results suggest that B. thuringiensis and B. subtilis could be used as growth biostimulants for cabbage and kale microgreens, offering a promising to optimize microgreen production under controlled conditions.

Chemical improvement of acid soils with the use of calcareous amendments in rambutan cultivation, Honduras

Breno Augusto Sosa-Rodrigues — 2025-06-04

Introduction. The acidity of the soil generates toxicity due to high concentrations of aluminum and low availability of macronutrients in rambutan cultivation, causing high production costs when correcting with synthetic fertilizers and alkaline correctives. Objective. To improves indicators of soil acidity using two calcareous amendments in the rambutan crop. Materials and methods. A trial was carried out between March and November 2023 under field conditions on a producer's farm in the municipality of San Francisco, Atlántida, Honduras. Increasing doses (0, 1, 2 and 3 Mg ha^-1) of two types of calcareous amendments: agricultural lime with 34,3 % Ca and 0,3 % Mg (AC) and calcite 25,5 % Ca y 1,2 % Mg (CAL), were evaluated. A randomized complete block design with a 4x4 factorial arrangement and three repetitions was used, giving rise to 16 treatments. The pH, exchangeable aluminum (Al³⁺), exchangeable acidity (Al³⁺+H⁺) and H⁺ were measured in the soil, on five occasions. Results. The individual use of each amendment stimulated the correction of the acidity indicators evaluated, the best dose was 3 Mg ha^-1. The pH of the soil increased as the doses of the two liming materials increased, where the highest dose (6 Mg ha^-1) combining both amendments showed the best response. The concentrations of H⁺, Al³⁺ and Al³⁺+ H⁺ decreased as liming doses increased, recording a similar effect when using 3 to 6 Mg ha^-1. In almost all the parameters analyzed, except for H⁺, significant changes were recorded until the fourth sampling, six months after the lime application, with CA showing slightly better results. Conclusions. Increasing doses of both calcareous amendments reduce the indicators of soil acidity in rambutan cultivation, agricultural lime provided better control.

Disinfection of zygotic embryos of Ceroxylon alpinum Bonpl. in vitro establishment

Estefany Serna-Toro — 2025-06-04

Introduction. The Ceroxylon genus includes Andean palm species that are vulnerable due to human intervention. Specifically, the seeds of Ceroxylon alpinum Bonpl. exhibit low germination rates, slow growth, and require complex environmental interactions for development. Objective. To evaluate disinfection methods for zygotic palm embryos to enable in vitro culture and micropropagation. Materials and methods. The study was conducted between February 2021 and March 2022. Wax palm (Ceroxylon alpinum Bonpl.) seeds were collected in the El Cairo forest, Salento, Quindío, Colombia, during the fruiting stage, selecting those with good morphological development and phytosanitary conditions. The seeds were then transported to the Plant Biotechnology Laboratory-CIBUQ in Armenia, Quindío. Surface disinfection was performed using neutral detergent Tween 20 at a concentration of 0.1 % (v/v) and running water, followed by immersion in 3 % NaClO for 25 minutes. The embryos were extracted under a stereoscope and immersed in 70% alcohol for one minute. They were then subjected to different NaClO concentrations for 10 minutes before being cultured in MS medium and evaluated for eight weeks. A completely randomized design with a single factor (NaClO concentration) and three levels (1 %, 1.5 %, and 2 %) was used, analyzed through ANOVA and Tukey’s test (α = 0.05) using Statistica 8 software. Results. Disinfection with 1.5 % NaClO (T2) was the most effective, achieving 75 % survival and 74 % embryo sprouting. In contrast, the 2 % NaClO concentration increased contamination. Conclusion. The disinfection method using 1.5 % NaClO was the most effective for enabling the viability of wax palm zygotic embryos, maximizing in vitro survival and sprouting, thereby facilitating micropropagation and the conservation of endangered species.

Economic valuation of non-timber forest products from the tropical dry forest: Ethnic-Pijao, Natagaima-Tolima, Colombia

Gloria Estefanía Pastrana-Aguirre — 2025-03-31

Introduction. Non-timber forest products from the tropical dry forest (TSF) offer multiple benefits and are considered an alternative for the sustainable use of forests and the socioeconomic development of local communities. Nevertheless, little is known about its economic value, limiting the visibility and exploitation of its potential and functionality. Objective. To assess the economic benefits of non-timber forest products from BST for the Pijao indigenous population of Natagaima-Tolima, Colombia. Materials and methods. This study was carried out in the municipality of Natagaima-Tolima, Colombia, during the first half of 2023. Data was collection through semi-structured interviews with 95 indigenous people from the rural sector, integrating social, ethnobotanical and economic variables. For the economic evaluation, the costs required for the acquisition of the product (CRAP), gross profit (BBr) and net profit (Bn) were established, supported by direct, indirect and contingency market valuation methods. Results. 570 reports were registered, 66 species of the tropical dry forest (TSF) were identified, which offer 122 NTFPs, distributed in eight categories of use (food, medicinal, forage, oil, construction, domestic, artisanal and magical-religious). In turn, these offer a total Bn of $ 8,591 /year, with a CRAP of 1.4 and a Bn per person of $ 1.34 /year. The categories of medicinal use, food and forage provide the greatest economic benefits considering that they contribute 79,5 % ($ 6.830,9 /year) of the total net income. Conclusions. NTFPs from tropical dry forests provide important socio-economic benefits to the livel

Perception and Management of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Dieback Disease in Actopan, Veracruz, Mexico

Juan Carlos Noa-Carrazana — 2025-02-04

Introduction. Dieback is a serious disease reported in mango-producing regions of Mexico; however, there is no information on the perception and management of this disease by mango producers. Objective. To assess the perception of mango producers in the municipality of Actopan, Veracruz, Mexico regarding dieback disease, to evaluate the management practices they implement, and to describe their socioeconomic and production characteristics. Materials and methods. The research was conducted in the municipality of Actopan, Veracruz, Mexico in the years 2021–2022. Semi-structured interviews with 45 questions were applied to mango producers. The socioeconomic characterization of the producers, plot management, recurrent diseases, and the perception and management of mango dieack were addressed. The data obtained from the surveys were analyzed using various multivariate and descriptive statistical tools. Results. The majority of the producers were men (94 %) with a wide age range, predominantly older adults and young adults. A cluster analysis identified three distinct groups of producers: small (SPM,56 %), medium (MPM,16 %), and large (LPM,28 %) mango producers, each with specific characteristics regarding cultivated area, agronomic management, and yield (M = 8,54 ± 3,75 t/ha). The mango dieback was widely recognized by all surveyed producers; the main symptoms associated with the disease: gummosis, branch rot, and trunk rot. Only 18.75 % of the producers implement some type of specific management or control of mango dieback, mainly through chemical and mineral fungicides. Conclusions. For mango producers in Actopan, Veracruz, dieback is a highly important disease in their cultivation. They carry out some basic management strategies; however, these have not been efficient, which has led to an interest in the development of new and better control tools.

Morphological characterization of advanced pepper lines (Capsicum annuum L.) from central Mexico

Enrique González-Pérez — 2025-02-04

Introduction. Of the five cultivated pepper species, Capsicum annuum L. is the most important worldwide, due to its high demand in the food, medical, and cosmetic industries, among others. Mexico has the greatest diversity of cultivated types, including jalapeño, guajillo, ancho, serrano, and habanero. However, some farmers grow native materials that should be studied and preserved, such as mulato and chilaca. In certain cases, like chilaca, there are no improved commercial cultivars, so producers depend on the seed they produce. Objective. To morphologically characterize advanced lines of different C. annuum types from central Mexico. Materials and methods. The study was conducted during the spring-summer cycles of 2022 and 2023, at the Bajío Experimental Station, located in Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico. In 32 advanced lines of eight C. annuum types, 42 traits were evaluated based on the guidelines of the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants and the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute guide. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and subjected to cluster and correspondence analysis. Results. Morphological variation showed that fifteen plant, leaf, and fruit traits were crucial to differentiating pepper types and lines. Based on similar traits, the cluster analysis grouped them into five clusters. Groups I and III included three pepper types, and six traits presented the highest positive eigenvectors. Conclusions. The observed diversity revealed determinant morphological characteristics to distinguish pepper types and lines, which must complete their genetic improvement process.

Cryopreservation of Livestock Species Germplasm: A Step Towards Sustainability

Ignacio Araya-Zúñiga — 2025-02-04

Introduction. Climate change has necessitated modifications to production methods in livestock systems. Objective. To review the state of the art on the sperm cryopreservation from livestock species and its potential contribution to sustainable development. Development. Scientific articles published between 2000 and 2024 were reviewed from the Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases. Sperm freezing can be considered a method to optimize animal reproduction. However, during the process, reactive oxygen species formation can be stimulated, promoting membrane lipid peroxidation, which may cause structural and molecular damage compromising sperm functionality and male gamete fertilizing capacity. The success of sperm cryopreservation in livestock species can be improved through the inclusion of extrinsic factors such as antioxidant addition, centrifugation, or freezing method selection. This reproductive biotechnology is associated with artificial insemination, and the combination of these techniques has enabled optimization of livestock system profitability through continuous genetic improvement. Conclusions. The optimization of germplasm cryopreservation in species of zootechnical interest has contributed to increased productivity and efficiency in livestock systems, as well as to species conservation possibilities, which are key factors to achieve sustainability.

Efficiency of botanical extracts from Jatropha curcas L. for the control of Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)

Pedro Fernando Silva-Illescas — 2025-03-28

Introduction. Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) is considered one of the main pests affecting horticultural and ornamental crops, especially in greenhouses. Effective management of this pest requires the integration of various methods and techniques, including the use of botanical extracts. Objective. To evaluate the efficacy of botanical extracts derived from Jatropha curcas for the control of Trialeurodes vaporariorum under laboratory conditions. Materials and methods. The study was conducted in the Entomology Laboratory of the Crops Protection Research Center, Universidad de Costa Rica. An adaptation of the methodologies described by Liu and Stansly (1995) and Ibrahim and Mostafa (2018) was implemented to evaluate the efficacy, median lethal concentration (LC50), and median lethal time (LT50) of aqueous botanical extracts made from leaves, stems, and seeds of two J. curcas accessions at concentrations of 50, 100, 150, and 200 g/L on T. vaporariorum. Results. The lowest LC50 (1.52 g/L) and LT50 (61.01 hours) values, as well as the highest efficacy values (above 65 %), were achieved with leaf extracts with significant differences observed exclusively in the LT50 values. Concentration was the most important factor in efficacy estimation according to the Akaike information criterion, and efficacy increased by 0.15 % for each concentration unit. None of the evaluated extracts caused phytotoxicity in Solanum melongena L. plants. Conclusions. The leaf extracts are a promising alternative for the control of T. vaporariorum; however, it is necessary to determine the compounds in Jatropha leaves that induce mortality.

Exploratory single crosses of purple maize for pericarp and cob pigment production

José Luis Ramírez Díaz — 2025-02-04

Introduction. Plant pigments represent an alternative to artificial colorants and contribute to the consumption of healthier foods. Objective. To evaluate, both in field and laboratory, exploratory single crosses (ESCs) of maize purple grain and cob developed using random lines, to assess the integration of the heterotic pattern B-49N x B-41N. Material and methods. The research was conducted in Tepatitlán, Jalisco, Mexico, during 2021 and 2022. ESCs were formed using six S5 lines from the B-49N population and four S3 lines from B-41N, all with purple grain and cob. In 2022, the crosses and five controls were evaluated under rainfed conditions in the same location, using a randomized complete block experimental design with three replications. Each plot consisted of a single row, 4 m long, 0.8 m wide, and 0.16 m between plants, with 25 plants per row. Data were collected on plant and ear characteristics. Total anthocyanin content in grain (CATg) and cob (CATo) was measured in seven of the crosses. Analysis of variance and mean comparison tests were conducted for all variables using SAS statistical software. Results. Twelve ESCs were identified with grain yield equal (p < 0.05) to the white control, but with purple grain and cob. Significant variation (p < 0.05) was observed in days to anthesis (ranging from 80 to 90 days), stalk lodging (from 0 to 12.6 %), and ear scoring (from 1.5 to 2.7). Grain texture ranged from soft to very soft among the ESCs. No association was found between grain yield and levels of CATg and CATo. Conclusion. The results from the ESCs indicate positive progress in the integration of the purple maize heterotic pattern B-49N x B-41N. However, future efforts should focus on increasing anthocyanin content in grain and cob, as well as improving grain hardness.

Genetic and environmental effects on production of dairy goats under semi-intensive tropical conditions

Jorge A. Campos-Alfaro — 2025-02-04

Introduction. The study of factors affecting the productive performance of dairy goats under tropical conditions is essential for optimal resource utilization. Objective. To quantify the impact of genetic and environmental factors affecting the productive performance of dairy goats under semi-intensive tropical conditions. Materials and methods. The research was conducted at the Finca Experimental Santa Lucía of the Universidad Nacional, Heredia, Costa Rica. The experimental period spanned from January 2007 to December 2023. A total of 15,686 daily milk yield records were analyzed from 191 dairy goats of Saanen (S) and Saanen•Toggenburg (S•T) breed types. A generalized linear mixed model was used to evaluate the effect of various predictor variables on daily milk yield, and standard lactation curves were fitted for different genetic and environmental conditions using the Wood function. Results. Highly significant effects (p < 0.001) were determined for parity number, year of kidding, lactation week, buck category, number of offspring, season, and month of kidding on milk yield. For primiparous goats of S and S•T breeds kidding in the rainy season, peak daily milk yields of 2.46 and 2.54 kg were estimated, reached at weeks 6.4 and 5.9, with persistencies at the end of lactation of 86 % and 84 %, respectively. Conclusions. Multiparous status and access to feed with higher nutritional content during the rainy season were factors associated with higher milk yield. Lactation curves revealed different patterns in milk production between primiparous and multiparous goats, as well as among different kidding seasons and breed types. The study provides valuable information for commercial validation and optimization of lactating goat management under semi-intensive tropical conditions.

Environmental impact of the broiler production chain under conventional systems

Felipe Portillo-Chávez — 2025-03-28

Introduction. Broiler production is an activity of increasing economic importance worldwide, but it entails a significant environmental impact. Objective. To assess the environmental impact of conventional broiler production chain systems. Materials and methods. The life cycle analysis (LCA) methodology was used following a “cradle to gate” approach. Base parameters were collected from a poultry farm located in San Ramón, Alajuela, Costa Rica, during the period January through December 2021. The LCA functional unit was defined as one metric ton of chicken meat (MT CM). Environmental impact categories were analyzed using the ReCiPe 2016 v.1.1 system, with characterization factors at the midpoint level under a hierarchical perspective. Results. The estimated environmental impacts, expressed in equivalent units per MT CM were as follows: global warming, 5208 kg CO2-eq; terrestrial acidification, 52.6 kg SO2-eq; marine eutrophication, 4.19 kg Neq; freshwater eutrophication, 2.47 kg P; land use, 5238 m2 crop year; water consumption, 3962 m3; terrestrial ecotoxicity, 1831 kg 1,4-DCB; marine ecotoxicity, 2.79 kg 1,4-DCB; freshwater ecotoxicity, 8.49 kg 1,4-DCB; human toxicity (carcinogenic), 1.13 kg 1,4-DCB; human toxicity (non-carcinogenic), 84.4 kg 1,4-DCB; fine particulate matter formation, 8.15 kg PM2.5; fossil resource depletion, 246.1 kg oil; ozone formation (ecosystem health), 10.8 kg NOx; ozone formation (human health), 10.7 kg NOx, and stratospheric ozone depletion, 0.043 kg CFC11. Conclusions. The processes contributing most significantly to the environmental impacts evaluated in this study were the production of feed, fertilizers, and fuels, along with farm waste management. The majority of the environmental impact attributable to the broiler production chain occurs outside of Costa Rica’s borders.

Use of jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) as an agroindustrial byproduct in animal feeding: A systematic review

Liliana Ortega-González — 2025-03-31

Introduction. Currently, food industry innovation results in the generation of thousands of tons of organic waste that negatively impacts environmental sustainability. Therefore, it is important to implement actions that contribute to waste reduction and utilize bioactive compounds effectively. Objective. To conduct a systematic literature review on the nutrients and bioactive compounds present in the main components of jackfruit (peel, pulp, and seed), to evaluate its potential incorporation into livestock feed. Development. A systematic review was conducted based on experimental articles retrieved from ScienceDirect, Wiley, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Springer Link databases. A specific search equation was employed for this purpose. Results demonstrated that different jackfruit components contain nutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, minerals) and bioactive compounds (polyphenols, flavonoids, polysaccharides, phenols, etc.) that have demonstrated positive effects when incorporated into livestock feed (broilers, sheep, and goats). Conclusions. The incorporation of jackfruit into animal feed promotes weight gain, improves digestibility, stimulates the immune system, and reduces feed production costs.

Pathogenicity and frequency of Fusarium species associated with the pineapple plant and fruit in Costa Rica

María Díaz-Gutiérrez — 2025-03-28

Introduction. Costa Rica ranks among the world’s leading producers and exporters of pineapple; however, production and post-harvest handling are hampered due to phytosanitary problems caused by fungi of the genus Fusarium. Objective. To determine the pathogenicity of different Fusarium species associated with the pineapple plant and fruit, and their frequency in the main production areas of Costa Rica. Materials and methods. The experiments were conducted at the University of Costa Rica, San Jose, from 2015 to 2019. Pathogenicity tests were carried out using inoculation with six Fusarium species in bracts, peduncles, and fruits of pineapple, and were verified using Koch’s postulates. Through the collection of 120 isolates, the frequency of Fusarium species in the production areas was established. Results. All Fusarium species caused damage to bracts. The largest lesions were caused by F. oxysporum. In fruit, internal lesions were observed in the pulp with F. ananatum, and a correlation between lesion size and the concentration of inoculated conidia was found. In the peduncle and pulp, lesion diameter varied among Fusarium species. In terms of species frequency, all Fusarium species were present in the Huetar Norte region, and F. ananatum was more abundant in all production regions, except the Brunca region. Conclusions. All the species analyzed were pathogenic in the pineapple crop, in bracts, peduncles, and fruit. F. oxysporum and F. ananatum caused the greatest lesions. The presence in all pineapple-growing regions, the pathogenic potential, and the production of mycotoxins determine the importance of taking precise measures to control and prevent the spread of species from this genus.

Functional ingredients and innovative dairy products: Scientific and technological review

Diana Víquez-Barrantes — 2024-12-09

Introduction. Understanding consumer behavior in the dairy sector is essential for enhancing competitiveness and defining strategies to meet their requirements and needs. Reviewing scientific information and patents allows for the identification of trends in the addition of functional compounds to dairy products, serving as a critical input for innovation in the food industry. Objective. To identify and analyze trends in the incorporation of functional compounds in dairy products by integrating perspectives from scientific articles and patent analyses. Development. Reviews of both sources revelated a greater application of functional ingredients in yogurt, which opens opportunities for implementation and research in other fermented products such as skyr. Scientific articles indicates an increasing focus on incorporating functional ingredients from unconventional sources into yogurt, ice cream, and cheese. Notable trends include the addition of antioxidants, and proteins, fat reduction, and the substitution of additives. Patents show a tendency toward the incorporation of nutrients, with protein addition being a recurring feature, as well as the inclusion of probiotics, minerals, and antioxidants. Another frequent trend in patents is the optimization of production processes to achieve clean labeling and improve sensory characteristics. The development of dairy products for specific populations is an emerging trend evidenced in the documented strategies. Conclusions. Key trends identified in the dairy industry include an emphasis on fermented products such as yogurt, improved production efficiency, and the addition of functional nutrients aligned with consumer requirements. Both sources highlighted the addition of proteins and antioxidants. An emerging trend identified in the analysis is personalized nutrition, which focuses on using functional nutrients tailored to specific populations groups.

Strategies in developing tropical maize hybrids.

S. K. Vasal — 1994-01-01

The strategies in a hybrid development program should be so oriented to achieve short, medium and long term objectives. The germplasm source utilized is quite important and should possess desirable agronomic traits with good plant and ear height characteristics along with good stalk quality to allow development of good progenitors. To achieve these objectives, it is imperative to introduce new strategies and modifications in the conventional systems to obtain higher efficiency. In this presentation various aspects are discussed relating to germplasm source oriented towards hybrids, integration and introduction of new schemes of population improvement parallel to hybrid development, production of vigorous and productive lines using diversified and efficient strategies, precise characterization of lines in inbred-line evaluation trials, combining ability in crosses with testers, identification of new hybrids during various stages of hybrid development, prediction of new hybrids with less number of single crosses, use of inbred lines in forming new populations as well as heterotic groups and synthetics. Options for developing single cross hybrids to add efficiency in the future are discussed.

Some considerations for the organic production of vegetables.

Floribeth Mora — 1994-01-01

This article is based on a Bibliographical Compilation where the ecosystemic problems, generated by the scientific and technological advances in modern agriculture, are analyzed. The basic principles ruling the organic, bilological, alternative or ecological agriculture are defined, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and improving the soil as the basic component of organic production, adducing that a well nourished plant is most resistant to any plague. Diseases, insects, weeds and nematodes are also mentioned, giving emphasis to practices of integrated plague management.

The phytogenetic resources: an option for the agricultural development in the American Tropics.

Jorge A. Morera — 1994-01-01

The Central American agriculture shows a low productivity in most of the cultivated crops, apparently due to a lack of improved varieties and a reduced used of cultural practices. The Central American region has climatic, topographic, edaphic and social characteristics that could allow a more integral development and exploitation of the autochthonous phytogenetic resources. Nonetheless, in spite of the significance that it has to the farmer and the industry, there is little research and information on the use and of cultural practices of some potential species of American origin. A better knowledge of the genetic diversity, seasonal production, quality, supply and demand of the products, will allow for the preparation of a list of the phytogenetic potential which is still preserved. The most important incentive of any crop is its economic profitability. On this way, the economic factor promotes the basis for developing an increased production, improve quality and open new alternatives to the farmer and the industry. If a new crop is not profitable, it is rejected inmediately; but on the other hand, if a crop is highly profitable, it is almost imposible to restrain its diffusion. The recognition and conscience drawn by the reasonable use of the "genetic resources" on the national, regional and world level, as an essential base for a dynamic and rational agriculture, by far justifies the programs of the countries in the American Tropics to join their efforts in the preservation and promotion of the genetic diversity.

Aerobiology: a new research area.

Jesús Loera — 1994-01-01

A workshop to address the science of aerobiology was held at Michigan State University‘s Kellog Biological Station on October 10-13, 1992. The purpose of the workshop was to bring together scientistis and to our-reach specialists from diverse disciplines to advance the understanding of aerobiology and improve the capability to predict the atmospheric movement of biota. Biota important to agriculture, forestry, human health and the envirommental move in predictable atmospheric transport events. The workshop participants discussed the principles of long-distance atmospheric transport of biota, formulated strategies to share diagnostic technologies and information systems, and concluded that science is positioned to make major advances in forecasting the movement of arthropods, plant viruses, fungi, and bacteria; birds and human allergens. A North American alliance for aerobiology research is being accelerate research advances in the important area of science. Approximately 70 nationally and internationally recognized scientists from agriculture, medicine, engineering, physics, eviromental science, and systems science participated in the workshop. The workshop generated (1) a set of generic foci and scientific hypotheses that will serve as guidelines to conceptualize and direct research in aerobiology, (2) recommendations for networking biological, atmospheric, and other environmental monitoring networks for in forecasting aerobiological transport events, (3) recommendations for utilizing existing electronic networks to link scientistis with agencies and institutions with and tools, (4) recommendations for developing an information database on an electronic comunications network to facilitate access to aerobioogical information, and (5) the establishment of an organizational, structure for the Alliance for Aerobiological Research (AFAR)with a governing board to serve the membership.