Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Legumes Soils'

Fertility-building crops (FBCs) offer the opportunity to alleviate the costs of inorganic fertiliser by providing an alternative supply of available nitrogen (N) in soils. A survey of relevant literature reviewed the types of FBCs, their nitrogen accumulation potentials, residue characteristics, and subsequent release patterns. It also identified a paucity of data concerning the response of different species to UK climatic, soil, and management conditions. In order to investigate these relationships further pot and field trials were established in 2007 at the Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester (SP 00481 01382) and at Coates Manor Farm (SO 98473 00402) on Sherborne series (typical Cotswold) soils, to investigate the biology and morphology of FBCs potentially suitable for short term fertility-building, their accumulation of N under field conditions, and its subsequent recovery within test crops. Data so obtained was used as a verification and refinement tool for the FBC model (Cuttle et al, 2003), a simple, commercially applicable, rotation-based model which can be applied to both organic and conventional production systems. Nine leguminous and two non-leguminous FBC treatments were established in April 2007 by straight sowing, followed by mulching at the conclusion of the nitrogen accumulation phase and by undersowing in spring barley (Hordeum sativum). The recovery test crops (winter and spring wheat Triticum aestivum L.) were established in September 2007 and March 2008. All FBCs established successfully. Above-ground dry matter (DM) yield and residue quality (C:N ratio) of FBCs varied significantly (P<0.05) between crops and cropping regimes with a significant correlation (r2=0.418) between DM yields and C:N ratios. FBCs and cropping regimes had significant effects (P<0.001 and P<0.05 respectively) on potential mineralisable nitrogen (PMN) levels in the soil and on the grain yields of winter and spring wheat test crops. Straight sown Lupinus albus, Trifolium pratense, Trifolium repens and a legume mixture resulted in higher winter wheat grain yields. However, the opportunity cost associated with straight sowing (i.e. the gross margin foregone from a spring barley crop) meant that the rotation would probably not be viable economically. Undersown Medicago lupulina, Vicia villosa, T. pratense, T. repens and the legume mixture gave worthwhile yield increases in spring wheat without incurring a yield penalty in the spring barley cover crop. Following enhancement and using actual data from the trials, the FBC model (Cuttle et al, 2003) provided encouraging predictions (R>0.6) for soil mineral nitrogen (SMN) and key parameters were identified for future use. It was concluded that FBCs established for short term soil fertility building could provide a worthwhile enhancement of soil N levels and grain yields in a conventional arable rotation, particularly in spring wheat following FBCs undersown in spring barley. It was also concluded that the FBC model (Cuttle et al, 2003), following further enhancement, and using additional data from these and other similar trials, could provide reasonably accurate estimates of SMN to aid more precise applications of N fertiliser in the future.

Legume species nodulate and grow successfully in the Core Cape Subregion, a Mediterranean-climate ecosystem with fynbos vegetation found on infertile soils. The physiological mechanisms enabling tolerance of low availability of phosphorus (P) are yet to be reported in Cape legume species such as Aspalathus linearis and Podalyria calyptrata; species that demonstrated traits typical of plants from nutrient poor soils. In the three research chapters of the thesis, it was anticipated that low P supply would limit plant growth and increase expression of traits for P acquisition.

Includes abstract.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 90-108).
Soils of the Cape Floristic Region (CFR) vary in phosphorous (P) availability and legume species tend to be distributed in specific edaphic habitats. Eighteen indigenous CFR legume species were grouped as high-P, low-P, Pgeneralist and unclassified plants, by associating their distribution with soil [P] in the CFR. It was hypothesized that the low-P group would be superior N2-fixers than the high-P group at low P supply.

Pine rocklands are endangered ecosystems unique to south Florida, the Bahamas and Cuba. As a result of their karstic calcium carbonate­rich soil, these systems are limited in phosphorus and nitrogen, making symbiotic associations critical to plant growth. Four leguminous species (Cajanus cajan, Chamaecrista fasciculata, Tephrosia angustissima, and Abrus precatorious) were used to determine the relationship between rhizobial partners and plant performance, and the symbiosis related gene nifH was amplified to characterize the diversity of rhizobial symbionts. Plants were grown in soils from four different south Florida pine rocklands, and a salinity treatment was added to determine how storm surge and sea level rise could affect this symbiotic relationship. While plant performance and nodulation were highly impacted by soil type, salinity did not represent a significant effect. Phylogenetic analysis determined that all four plant species were found to associate with Bradyrhizobium spp. and no rhizobial shift between salinity treatment and soil type was found.

Bibliography: leaves 164-193. This study aims to quantify the belowground input of organic carbon by barrel medic using techniques that account for root death and decomposition as well as root secretion and exudation. It also investigates the effect of defoliation on carbon allocation within the plant so as to determine the potential for optimising carbon input to the soil through grazing management.

The relationship between plants and rhizosphere bacteria collected from a 45 year old permanent pasture was investigated. Several methods of strain identification within Rhizobium trifolii were evaluated. Separation of bacterial isolates based on differences in intrinsic antibiotic resistance was not appropriate because strains developed hybrid resistance patterns when grown in a common broth. Serological analyses of bacterial antigens using polyclonal antiserum yielded two reliable methods for identifying R. trifolii isolates. Agglutination and immunofluorescence procedures were not useful in distinguishing these strains but immunodiffusion and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were highly suitable. Adaptation of the ELISA allowed isolates to be identified directly from individual root nodules without first subculturing the bacteria. A strain of Bacillus polymyxa isolated from the same pasture was shown to stimulate growth of crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum L.) and white clover (Trifolium repens L.). The primary manifestation of the effect was increased root weight (P < 0.05), but shoot responses were also observed. Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) generally reacted negatively to inoculation with this bacterium. Further stimulation of growth was noted when ramets of the white clover genotype homologous to (sharing a common origin) B. polymyxa were inoculated in pure stands (P < 0.05). Clones of the homologous perennial ryegrass genotype also showed a yield increase from slightly below control levels to slightly above them when tested in a similar manner. Detailed analysis of the crested wheatgrass response to inoculation revealed that bacterial production of indole acetic acid was the most likely cause of the growth stimulation. Other bacterial characteristics such as the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen or to solubilize organic phosphorus were concluded to be unrelated to the growth response. Co-adaptive compatibility between genotypes of L. perenne and T. repens was not apparent when the effect of R. trifolii was ignored. However, when clones of pasture plants that had been neighbours in the field were inoculated with R. trifolii isolated from root nodules of the "parental" clover genotype, biotic specialization between the pasture plants became evident. The magnitude of the effect, which was characterized by superior white clover yields (P < 0.05), could be largely accounted for by the presence of the adapted L. perenne/R. trifolii combinations, regardless of the white clover genotype. Since T. repens was the dominant component in the species mixture, these trends were also apparent when total forage biomass was analyzed (P < 0.05). However, ecological combining ability was found to be lowest in these associations (P < 0.05). Similar experimentation with isolates of B. polymyxa (or B. polymyxa-like organisms) was performed. Again the grass/bacteria combination was shown to be influential in the growth response as the presence of homologous L. perenne/B. polymyxa combinations resulted in superior white clover and perennial ryegrass performance (P < 0.05). When T. repens was inoculated with a mixture of R. trifolii strains, unrelated isolates formed more root nodules than did homologous ones (P < 0.05). The presence of perennial ryegrass did not mitigate this effect. However, when homologous R. trifolii was administered as a single strain inoculum, yield advantages in white clover were observed (P < 0.05). If B. pol ymyxa was present, homologous strains of R. trifolii tended to form most of the root nodules regardless of the T. repens or L. perenne genotypes. The significance of the yield advantages observed in various two and three-way plant/microbe genotype combinations is discussed with respect to above ground plant performance.
Land and Food Systems, Faculty of
Graduate

A 2-yr grazing study quantified pasture and animal responses of four forage systems (FS) grazed at two stocking rates (SR; 3 or 6 animals ha^-1). Using Marshall‟ annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) and Durana‟ white clover (Trifolium repens L.), FS treatments included spatially separated grass and legumes within the same paddock (SS), monoculture grass (MG), monoculture legume (ML), and a binary grass and legume mixture (MIX). Annual herbage mass (HM) was similar among FS at high SR (1900 kg ha^-1), but at low SR, grass plots had greater HM (2900 vs. 2000 kg ha^-1) than plots of legume monocultures. Animals on SS (1.12 kg) had greater average daily gain (ADG) than ML (0.97 kg), but neither was different from MG (1.08 kg) or MIX (1.00 kg). Low SR animals had greater ADG than high SR (1.09 vs. 0.99 kg). These results indicate that SS grazing system can improve pasture productivity.

This study records all known legume (Leguminosae/Fabaceae) species indigenous to South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland to establish distribution patterns and optimum climatic and soil conditions for growth. The main purpose was to propose a list of legume species for further evaluation of their pasture potential. Collection data supplied by the National Herbarium (PRE) Computerised Information System were recorded to establish the distribution patterns of species based on the bioregions vegetation map. A total of 1 654 species are known to be indigenous, representing 24 tribes and 122 genera. The grouping of legume species into five main clusters and 16 Leguminochoria is ecologically described, with the highest legume species richness found in the Northern Mistbelt Forest. Key and diagnostic species are provided for each Leguminochorion. Soil pH and mean annual minimum temperature were found to be the main drivers for distinguishing between legume assemblages. The optimum climatic and soil conditions for growth are described as well as the available descriptive attributes for species recorded. Information on the range of tolerance of most species to abiotic factors is presented. Mean annual rainfall and soil pH are highly correlated with the distribution pattern of most species, followed by mean annual minimum temperature. Legume species adapted to a wide range of soil pH levels and low soil phosphorus levels are recorded. Existing data on the cultivation and grazing or browsing status of indigenous legumes were used to select 584 species found mainly in the Central Bushveld, Mopane and Lowveld Bioregions to be further evaluated for their pasture potential. Known characteristics were used to categorise species. Species contained in the tribe Phaseoleae are of special interest since it contains most of the genera with present-day agricultural value, i.e. Eriosema, Rhynchosia and Vigna species are listed as having high potential as pasture species. This study has shown that the descriptive and distribution data accumulated by botanists (notably taxonomists) could be of beneficial use in meeting agricultural objectives. Indigenous legumes are adapted to a wide range of soil and climatic conditions and represent a valuable but largely unexploited natural resource for pasture development and soil conservation practices.
Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2013.
gm2014
Plant Science
unrestricted

Agriculture is facing increasing pressures to produce food that meets specific market and/or nutrition requirements, while using inputs in such a way that can ensure economic and environmental goals more efficiently. Two field experiments were conducted in 2013 and 2014 at the Royal Agricultural University’s Harnhill’ Manor Farm, Cirencester, UK to evaluate the influence of selected cultivation techniques, N fertilisation and undersowing legumes on spring wheat growth and development. To explore, in particular, the yield components contributing to grain yield and quality, as well as weed pressure influences together with changes in soil mineral N (SMN) content. Cultivation techniques included conventional tillage (CT), high intensity non-inversion tillage (HINiT) and low intensity non-inversion tillage (LINiT); mineral N fertilisation rates of 0, 70, 140 and 210 kg N ha-1 and two undersown legume species, black medic and white clover, plus no undersowing treatment. The performance of the management practices was strongly influenced by the weather. In 2013, under dry weather conditions, LINiT seems to be a suitable alternative to CT, while N fertilisation did not encourage greater grain yield. In 2014, CT appears to be a more reliable practice, while the application of up to 140 kg N ha-1 seemed to be enough to increase grain yield. Dry weather conditions at the time of broadcasting did not allow the undersowing species to be fully established, resulting in no effects on weed control and crop growth. In 2013, the initial poor plant establishment and slow crop growth under LINiT was compensated for by the soils ability to retain moisture, and thereby reducing crop water stress during the dry periods. This finally resulted in statistically similar grain yield to CT. In 2014 when water was not a limiting factor, poor plant establishment and crop growth, low SMN content and high weed pressure under LINiT resulted in lower grain yield than CT. In both years, HINiT resulted in low SMN content and high weed pressure resulting in poor grain yield. Across experiments, HINiT and LINiT saved energy-use and production costs, but CT could be more energy-use efficient and have high economic return if higher grain yield is assured. N fertilisation significantly promoted wheat growth, although under dry conditions with higher residual soil N, the N fertilisation did not increase yield. Under low SMN level applying up to 140 kg N ha-1 increased grain yield produced, but N fertilisation is energy consuming and its use does not always ensure a higher economic return.

[Truncated abstract] Salinity and waterlogging interact to reduce the growth of most crop and pasture species. Species that are productive on saline-waterlogging land are needed for Australian farming systems. One option is Lotus tenuis, a perennial legume widely grown for pasture in the flood-prone and salt-affected Pampa region of Argentina. To identify mechanisms responsible for the adverse interaction between salinity and waterlogging, Lotus tenuis with a reputation for tolerance was compared with L. corniculatus, the most widely cultivated Lotus species. The physiology of salt and waterlogging tolerance in L. tenuis (4 cultivars) was evaluated, and compared with L. corniculatus (3 cultivars). Overall, L. tenuis cultivars accumulated less Na+ and Cl-, and more K+ in shoots than L. corniculatus cultivars, when exposed to 200 mM NaCl for 28 d in aerated or in anoxic (stagnant agar) solutions. In a NaCl dose response experiment (0 to 400 mM NaCl in aerated solution), Lotus tenuis (cv. Chaja) accumulated half as much Cl- in its shoots than L. corniculatus (cv. San Gabriel) at all external NaCl concentrations, and about 30% less shoot Na+ in treatments above 250 mM NaCl. Ion distributions in shoots were determined for plants at 200 mM NaCl; L. tenuis (cv. Chaja) accumulated about half as much Cl- in old leaves, young leaves and stems, compared with concentrations in L. corniculatus (cv. San Gabriel). There were not, however, significant differences between the two species for Na+ concentrations in the various shoot tissues under aerated NaCl treatment. '...' Therefore, during early stages of exposure to salinity, L. tenuis accumulated a higher proportion of total Na+ in the roots under combined stagnant-plus-NaCl treatment (55% versus 39% for L. corniculatus). Na+ transporters, particularly those relying on H+ gradients across membranes, which in turn require adequate ATP levels, could be impaired under O2 deficits that inhibit respiration. To study the effect of O2 deficiency on a Na+ transporter, an NHX1-like gene was cloned from L. tenuis and identity established via sequencing and yeast complementation studies. Real-time qPCR showed expression of NHX1 in L. tenuis roots increased under stagnant-plus-NaCl treatment, whereas it was reduced in L. corniculatus. Thus, maintaining O2 transport to roots, together with up-regulation of an NHX1-like gene for Na+ accumulation in vacuoles, contributes to tolerance of L. tenuis to combined salinity and waterlogging stresses. This study highlights the importance of minimising Cl- transport to shoots as a mechanism of salt tolerance and has identified a CCC-like gene in L. tenuis as a candidate for mediating root-to-shoot Cl- transport. Under combined stagnant-plus-NaCl treatment, control of Na+ transport is another mechanism contributing to tolerance in these Lotus species. Enhanced root aeration in L. tenuis maintains root Na+ transport processes, such as accumulation in vacuoles via NHX1-like genes, to diminish xylem loading to the shoot. Overall, this thesis has contributed new knowledge on the potential of Lotus tenuis as a saltland pasture and has significantly enhanced current understanding on the mechanisms of salinity and waterlogging tolerance in plants.

This study addressed the effects of salinity and pot size on the interaction between leguminous plant hosts and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in four pine rockland soils using a shade house trap-plant experiment. Little is known about the belowground diversity of pine rocklands and the interactions between aboveground and belowground biota – an increased understanding of these interactions could lead to improved land management decisions, conservation and restoration efforts. Following twelve weeks of growth, plants were measured for root and shoot dry biomass and percent colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. Overall, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi had positive fitness effects on the four legume species (Cajanus cajan, Chamaecrista fasciculata, Tephrosia angustissima and Abrus precatorius), improving their growth rate, shoot and root biomass; pot size influenced plant-fungal interactions; and percent colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi was influenced by soil type as well as salinity.

In order to predict how terrestrial ecosystems will respond to global change, there is growing recognition that we need to better understand linkages between plant and soil processes. Previously the factors and processes with potential to influence the terrestrial carbon (C) cycle have been investigated in isolation from each other. This study investigated the interactions of nutrient availability and warming in controlling the soil carbon dynamics, with regards to the fate of already sequestered carbon in soil, under conditions of increasing atmospheric temperatures. The project objectives were addressed by three independent experiments designed to explain specific components of the carbon-nutrient cycle interactions, and the findings brought together to describe the implications for future soil carbon storage. The main measurements collected throughout this project included soil carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes, partitioned into autotrophic and heterotrophic components, net ecosystem exchange and respiration fluxes, and background soil moisture and temperature data, backed by gas, soil and biomass analyses. In the two field experiments, these measurements were taken from plots with or without any inorganic nutrient additions or in the presence or absence of legumes providing biological nitrogen addition to the ecosystem. In the laboratory, temperature and nutrient availability were manipulated within the ecosystem. The reduction in decomposition rates, without reduction of productivity as a result of inorganic nutrient additions, indicated the potential for increasing C storage. There was also evidence that nutrient availability controls the strength of the link between plant and soil processes in semi-natural grasslands. The yields, decomposition rates and soil C fluxes recorded in the presence and absence of legumes provided some evidence of N2 fixation, improving ecosystem productivity and soil properties while reducing soil C effluxes, in a managed grassland. In the laboratory, the warming of soils from lysimeters with and without plants, receiving or not receiving fertiliser, supported the findings from field experiments regarding the importance of the soil-plant link in controlling C fluxes. However, C stocks and δ13C analyses showed that over a year’s worth of warming and nutrient manipulations made little difference to the amount of C stored in the soil, indicating that edaphic factors have greater control over the response of C dynamics to increased temperatures.

Phytophthora medicaginis is an important soil-borne oomycete pathogen of lucerne (Medicago sativa) and chickpea (Cicer arietinum) within Australia and overseas. To understand the host/pathogen interaction, a pathosystem was developed using the model legume Medicago truncatula. Using the resources developed for genetics and molecular characterisation in this model plant, the aim of this research was to understand the interaction between M. truncatula and P. medicaginis, with a view to improving resistance to this important pathogen in related legumes. To observe and characterise the interaction between M. truncatula and P. medicaginis, a pathosystem was developed by first screening a germplasm collection of 99 M. truncatula accessions. This revealed a continuous distribution in disease phenotypes with variable extremes in natural resistance to P. medicaginis culture UQ5750, isolated originally from M. sativa. P. medicaginis zoospore inoculation of 1-2 week-old seedlings in glasshouse experiments proved to be a robust and repeatable method to consistently confirm the responses observed for six key M. truncatula accessions; SA8618 and SA8623 exhibit high natural resistance to this pathogen, accession A17 is moderately resistant, A20 is moderately susceptible and accessions Borung and SA30199 are susceptible. To characterise the genetic basis of resistance to P. medicaginis, two reciprocal F2 populations from cross pollinations between A17 and Borung and SA8618 and SA30199 were produced and then phenotyped for disease symptoms. Genetic segregation patterns indicated the involvement of a gene with a major effect in both reciprocal populations. In particular, a 3:1 segregation ratio for resistance in the F2 populations from cross pollinations between A17 and Borung indicated the possibility of a single dominant gene for moderate resistance. Further phenotyping of F3 families is required to verify this. A M. truncatula linkage map was constructed using 50 F2 individuals of the A17 X Borung population and 49 F2 individuals from the Borung X A17 population. The map, covering 519.3 cM, is comprised of 84 SSR markers with an average distance between markers of 8.7 cM. These are evenly spaced over 7 linkage groups, including a super linkage group conferred by a translocation event between LG4 and LG8 of accession A17. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis confirmed there was a QTL with a major effect in the A17/Borung reciprocal populations. A significant QTL was determined by quantifying two symptoms of P. medicaginis infection - proportion of dead/chlorotic leaves and root fresh weight. The trait loci for both symptoms were located on the same linkage group within the same region, supporting the putative position of the QTL and the authenticity of its involvement in resistance to P. medicaginis. This QTL was located on LG6 and accounted for 69.5% of the observed variation in proportion of dead/chlorotic leaves or 38.1% of the variation in root fresh weight within the inoculated populations. The effect of this QTL on resistance to P. medicaginis translated into 27.5% less dead/chlorotic leaves or 0.86 g more root fresh weight. Other QTLs with minor effects that are potentially involved in the interaction are located elsewhere on LG6 and LG2. However, the marker density of the linkage map and the population size need to be increased to verify this. In parallel to this, an F7 recombinant inbred line (RIL) population of chickpea (BG212 X Jimbour), developed by breeders at the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI), was also assessed for the genetic basis of resistance to P. medicaginis. Variance component analysis of phenotype scores for this intraspecific RIL population indicated that 57.15% of the differences in between-family and withinfamily variance could be attributed to a genetic component. However, gene-based markers developed in M. truncatula and established simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers of chickpea were not sufficiently polymorphic in size to produce a linkage map for further QTL analysis. An interspecific cross between C. arietinum and C. echinospermum (Howzat X ILWC246) was also performed by breeders at the NSW DPI to develop RILs. In the duration of this research these interspecific RILs were bred to generation F3 and phenotyping assessment had not been performed. However, marker screening of the parents revealed 122 size polymorphic chickpea SSR markers. A sufficient linkage map could be produced for QTL analysis once field assessment of this population is performed. Initial screening of the M. truncatula gene-based markers on the parents of this interspecific cross also revealed that 50% show a sequence-identified base pair difference. A chickpea linkage map incorporating these markers could be comparatively mapped with M. truncatula. Molecular investigations of the M. truncatula/P. medicaginis pathosystem were performed to elucidate the possible underlying defence mechanisms involved in the observed resistance. To determine the function of ethylene in the resistant response, the characterisation of defence associated mutants of M. truncatula and Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated ‘hairy root’ transformations were employed. Comparison of response to inoculation of an ethylene insensitive mutant of M. truncatula (sickle) with the moderately resistant background genotype A17 showed that sickle was hypersensitive to P. medicaginis. This indicated that ethylene insensitivity was not the source of resistance to this pathogen and importantly that ethylene is a key defence signalling molecule in the moderate resistance of A17 to P. medicaginis. Agrobacterium-mediated ‘hairy root’ transformations of M. truncatula with 4GCC::Luc constructs, revealed that the production of ethylene and consequently ethylene response factors (ERFs) after inoculation by P. medicaginis was a general defence reaction by all accessions. The two susceptible M. truncatula accessions exhibited a much stronger and earlier response to inoculation than the highly resistant and moderately resistant accessions. This indicated that the resistant response may be directed by a transcriptional component governed by the host genotype, downstream of ethylene production. The M. truncatula/P. medicaginis ‘hairy root’ transformation assay has scope to be a powerful functional genomics tool for this pathogen interaction. Reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RTqPCR) was employed to determine the general patterns of gene expression and function underlying the response to P. medicaginis infection. Relative changes in gene expression of key enzymes in each of the salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, ethylene and isoflavonoid defence pathways and in genes encoding downstream target proteins revealed potential genes involved in the resistance to P. medicaginis. There was a distinct molecular difference in the response between the high and moderately resistant M. truncatula phenotypes to this pathogen. Moderate resistance to P. medicaginis in M. truncatula is possibly mediated by ethylene and involves the considerable induction of pathogenesis related protein 5 (PR5), which was not the same defence response that conferred the high resistance to P. medicaginis. Early and consistent expression of genes encoding key enzymes of the isoflavonoid pathway by the highly resistant accession indicated that phytoalexin response could be associated with the high resistance. Confirmation of the involvement of isoflavonoid phytoalexins in the high resistance response to P. medicaginis merits further investigation.

Thesis (MScAgric (Soil Science))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The sandy soils of the Riverlands Nature Reserve, near Malmesbury, and the neighbouring farm were studied to determine the effects of long term invasion of the legume Acacia saligna on the soil nutrient content of a soil previously vegetated with fynbos. The effect of the removal of this alien legume on general soil properties and groundwater quality were also studied. The changes in nitrates and nitrites (NOX) due to the invasion and removal of the alien legume were investigated in more detail than changes in other soil nutrients. In addition to that emphasis was placed on the effect of vegetation clearing on groundwater quality, specifically relating to potential contamination with nitrates. This study was initiated after Conrad et al., (1999) found increased NOX concentrations in ground water while studying the effects of pig farming on ground water nitrogen (N) near a site cleared of Acacia saligna by Working for Water (WFW). Since many sites are scheduled for removal of this alien vegetation it was deemed necessary to study the effects that clearing alone had on groundwater quality. It was suspected that there would be an increase in soil and groundwater NOX with vegetation removal due to the inputs from the legume alien invader. Soil sampling was done continuously throughout the rainy season of 2007 (From May to December) on three adjacent sites separated by some 50 m of distance, consisting of a natural fynbos site and two Acacia saligna sites. The sites were selected approximately on the same contour line to prevent interaction through lateral water flow. One of the Acacia sites was cleared by the Working for Water programme in the usual manner leaving slash on the ground. Soil samples were collected at regular intervals throughout the season from all three sites (fynbos, Acacia and cleared site) using a Jarrett soil auger. They were airdried (to achieve full oxidation of mineral N) and sieved though a 2mm sieve. Soils were analysed by atomic absorption spectroscopy for basic cations and by ion chromatography for anions, including nitrates and nitrites. Total carbon and nitrogen was determined by combustion, pH (1M KCl and H2O) and EC (1:5 H2O) were also measured. The present study was part of a wider investigation into the quality of groundwater, modelling flow and contaminant transport (Jovanovic et al., 2008). The largest changes in soil properties were observed in the top (0-5 cm) layer. The fynbos site had a lower nutrient status by comparison to the Acacia site and the cleared site. The sum of cations from the soils of the fynbos site at a soil depth of 0-5cm was 100mg/kg and soils from the cleared and Acacia sites were about 190mg/kg. The Acacia site had a higher NOX status and experienced a larger NOX fluctuation during the rainy season than the fynbos site; minimum NOX values were similar (below 10mg/kg) but the Acacia site had a maximum NOX value of near 60mg/kg and the fynbos site just below 30mg/kg. There was little difference in general soil characteristics (exchangeable cations, pH and EC, total soil C and N) during the first season after clearing, between the Acacia and the cleared sites. The effect of soluble nitrogen changes due to alien legume invasion and removal on groundwater quality, relating to NOX, during the first season after clearing, was determined. It was found that the Acacia site had higher NOX concentrations than the fynbos site. At 0-5cm the fynbos site NOX was less than 30mg/kg and the Acacia site was between 30 and 110mg/kg for most of the season, with values lower than 30mg/kg for the last four sampling dates only. N concentrations on the cleared site behaved in a similar manner to the uncleared Acacia site, but generally N values were lower on the cleared site, there were only two sampling dates where the cleared site had higher NOX values than the Acacia site at 0-5cm. The average groundwater N in NOX under the cleared site was 4.34 mg/l, and under the Acacia site 3.78mg/l, these values are both below the level determined for water contamination with nitrates. However, the increase in ground water nitrate levels after A. saligna clearing was significant. It was concluded that there is a change in the nutrient status of soil with Acacia invasion and again with removal. NOX migrates to the groundwater to a larger degree once vegetation has been removed, although during this study the nitrate pollution threshold of 10 mg/l nitrate N was not reached.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die sanderige gronde van die Riverlands Natuur Reservaat, naby Malmesbury, en die aangrensende plaas was bestudeer om die effek van die langtermyn indringing van die peulgewas, Acacia saligna, op die voedingswaarde van ‘n voorheen fynbos begroeide grond, sowel as die effek van die verwydering van die indringer op die algemene samestelling van die grond en grondwater kwaliteit. Oplosbare stikstof veranderings (NOX) wat plaasvind as gevolg van die indringing en verwydering van die indringer peulgewas, was in meer diepte bestudeer as die ander elemente. Klem was ook geplaas op die effek van die verwydering van plantegroei op grondwater kwaliteit, met spesifieke verwysing na potensiële nitraat besoedeling. Die studie was beplan na Conrad et al., (1999) ‘n toename van NOX konsentrasies in grondwater ontdek het, tydens ‘n studie van die effek wat vark boerdery het op grondwater N naby ‘n area waar Acacia Saligna verwyder was deur Working For Water (WFW). As gevolg van die feit dat verskeie areas in die proses is om skoongemaak te word van Acacia Saligna, is dit nodig geag om die effek daarvan of grondwater kwaliteit te ondersoek. Die hipotesis was dat daar ‘n toename in NOX konsentrasies in grond en grondwater sal wees as gevolg van die verwydering van plantegroei. Grond monsters was deurlopend geneem gedurende die reën seisoen van 2007 (Vanaf Mei tot Desember) uit nabygeleë areas wat omtrent 50 meter uitmekaar is. Die volgende tipes grond was verteenwoordig: ‘n Fynbos begroeide grond sowel as ‘n grond begroei met Acacia saligna. Die areas was geselekteer ongeveer op die selfde kontoer lyn om interaksie tussen areas te voorkom as gevolg van laterale water vloei. ’n Gedeelte van die A. saligna area was skoongemaak deur die Working for Water program op die gewone manier deur die afgesnyde plant materiaal op die grond te los. Grond monster was geneem met gereelde intervalle gedurende die seisoen op al drie areas (fynbos, A. saligna, en skoongemaakte area) deur die gebruik van ’n Jarret grondboor. Die monsters was lugdroog gemaak (om volle oksidasie van die mineraal N te verseker) en toe gesif deur ‘n 2mm sif. Die gronde was analiseer deur atoom absorpsie vir basiese katione en deur ioon chromatografie vir anione, insluitende nitriete en nitrate. Totale koolstof en stikstof was bepaal deur verbranding terwyl pH (1M KCl en H2O) en EC (1:5 H2O) ook gemeet was. Hierdie studie was deel van ‘n wyer ondersoek na die kwaliteit van grondwater, vloei modelering en vervoer van kontaminante (Jovanovic et al., 2008). Die grootste veranderinge in die grond eienskappe was in die boonste grondlaag (0-5cm) waargeneem. Die bevinding was dat die fynbos area ‘n laer voedingswaarde het as die area begroei met die indringer sowel as die die skoongemaakte area. Die som van katione onder fynbos grond by ‘n grond diepte van 0-5cm, was 100/mg/kg en die som van katione by die ander twee areas was omtrent 190mg/kg. Die Acacia area het ‘n hoër NOX inhoud en het ‘n groter NOX fluktuasie ervaar gedurende die reën seisoen as die fynbos area. Die minimum NOX waardes was soortgelyk (minder as 10/mg/kg), maar die Acacia area het ‘n maksimum NOX waarde van omtrent 60mg/kg terwyl die fynbos area se maksimum net minder as 30mg/kg gehad het. Daar nie veel verskil tussen die algemene grond eienskappe (uitruilbare katione, pH en EC, totale C en N) van die Acacia en skoongemaakte areas gedurende die eerste seisoen na die indringer verwyder is nie. Die effek van oplosbare stikstof veranderings as gevolg van die peulgewas se indringing en verwydering op grondwater kwaliteit, met verwysing na NOX, gedurende die eerste seisoen na verwydering van die indringer was bepaal. Dit was bevind dat die Acacia area ‘n hoër NOX konsentrasie as die fynbos area het. Op ‘n diepte van 0-5cm was die fynbos NOX laer as 30mg/kg terwyl die Acacia area tussen 30 en 110mg/kg vir die grootste gedeelte van die seisoen was met waardes laer as 30mg/kg vir die laaste vier datums waarop monsters geneem was. Veranderings in N op die skoongemaakte area en die Acacia area was soortgelyk, maar oor die algemeen was N waardes laer op die skoongemaakte area. Daar was slegs op twee datums gevalle gevind waar die skoongemaakte area ‘n hoër NOX inhoud as die Acacia area gehad het by ‘n diepte van 0-5cm. Die gemiddelde N in NOX in die grondwater onder die skoongemaakte area was 4.34mg/l en by die Acacia area was dit 3.78mg/l; hierdie waardes is onder die drempel vir nitraatbesoedeling in grondwater. Die nitraat inhoud van die grondwater het wel beduidend toegeneem as gevolg van verwydering van A. saligna. Die gevolgtrekking was dat daar ‘n verandering plaasvind in die voeding status van grond met Acacia saligna indringing en weer met verwydering. NOX migrasie na die grondwater verhoog met verwydering van plantegroei. In hierdie studie was die nitraat besoedeling drempel van 10mg/l nitraat N nie bereik nie.

Thesis (MTech (Horticulture Science))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2009
The study used common bean (P. vulgaris L. variety Provider) in a spilt-split-plot design involving 2 levels of Rhizobium inoculation (with and without rhizobia), 3 levels of lime (0, 2 and 3 t.ha-1) and 3 levels of molybdenum (0, 6 and 12 g.kg-1 of seeds) in a glasshouse experiment. The glasshouse experiment was then verified in the field during 2008 and 2009 cropping seasons. The aim was to assess the effects of Rhizobium inoculation, molybdenum and lime supply on: i) yield and yield components of the P. vulgaris L. ii) Changes in soil pH and the concentrations of selected plant-available nutrients in the rhizosphere, iii) photosynthesis and chlorophyll formation in P. vulgaris L. and (iv) plant growth and N2-fixation in P. vulgaris L. The results showed that Rhizobium inoculation had significant effects in increasing yield components and ultimately the final seed yield. Rhizobial inoculation also significantly increased the levels of chlorophyll content in leaves, improved all photosynthetic parameters, increased dry matter yield of different organs and decreased 15N values in all organs assessed. As a result, % nitrogen derived from atmosphere (%Ndfa) in all organs as well as the amount of N derived from fixation was improved. In the field, the whole plant level of N-fixation of P. vulgaris L. from Rhizobium inoculation accounted for approximately 33 kg N.ha-1. Furthermore, soil pH and the concentration of mineral nutrients (P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn) in the rhizosphere were significantly increased with Rhizobium inoculation when compared with the control.

Includes abstract.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 64-83).
Legumes are unable to persist through post-fire succession in fynbos vegetation of the CFR unlike species in families such as Proteaceae and Restionaceae. The majority of fynbos legumes are seeders which tend to be shorter-lived than co-occurring resprouters. Seeders are likely to have a higher nutrient requirement than resprouters as they tend to invest more biomass- above ground, grow faster and produce more seed. In the oligo-trophic soils occupied by fynbos, symbiotic N2-fixation enables legumes to overcome low N availability but not low P availability. I hypothesized that: legumes are less effective at acquiring P from sparingly soluble sources compared with members of Proteaceae and Restionaceae ; legume seeders occupy soils with a higher nutrient status than resprouters. P-acquisition strategies of legumes and non-legumes were assessed.

Phytophthora medicaginis is an important soil-borne oomycete pathogen of lucerne (Medicago sativa) and chickpea (Cicer arietinum) within Australia and overseas. To understand the host/pathogen interaction, a pathosystem was developed using the model legume Medicago truncatula. Using the resources developed for genetics and molecular characterisation in this model plant, the aim of this research was to understand the interaction between M. truncatula and P. medicaginis, with a view to improving resistance to this important pathogen in related legumes. To observe and characterise the interaction between M. truncatula and P. medicaginis, a pathosystem was developed by first screening a germplasm collection of 99 M. truncatula accessions. This revealed a continuous distribution in disease phenotypes with variable extremes in natural resistance to P. medicaginis culture UQ5750, isolated originally from M. sativa. P. medicaginis zoospore inoculation of 1-2 week-old seedlings in glasshouse experiments proved to be a robust and repeatable method to consistently confirm the responses observed for six key M. truncatula accessions; SA8618 and SA8623 exhibit high natural resistance to this pathogen, accession A17 is moderately resistant, A20 is moderately susceptible and accessions Borung and SA30199 are susceptible. To characterise the genetic basis of resistance to P. medicaginis, two reciprocal F2 populations from cross pollinations between A17 and Borung and SA8618 and SA30199 were produced and then phenotyped for disease symptoms. Genetic segregation patterns indicated the involvement of a gene with a major effect in both reciprocal populations. In particular, a 3:1 segregation ratio for resistance in the F2 populations from cross pollinations between A17 and Borung indicated the possibility of a single dominant gene for moderate resistance. Further phenotyping of F3 families is required to verify this. A M. truncatula linkage map was constructed using 50 F2 individuals of the A17 X Borung population and 49 F2 individuals from the Borung X A17 population. The map, covering 519.3 cM, is comprised of 84 SSR markers with an average distance between markers of 8.7 cM. These are evenly spaced over 7 linkage groups, including a super linkage group conferred by a translocation event between LG4 and LG8 of accession A17. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis confirmed there was a QTL with a major effect in the A17/Borung reciprocal populations. A significant QTL was determined by quantifying two symptoms of P. medicaginis infection - proportion of dead/chlorotic leaves and root fresh weight. The trait loci for both symptoms were located on the same linkage group within the same region, supporting the putative position of the QTL and the authenticity of its involvement in resistance to P. medicaginis. This QTL was located on LG6 and accounted for 69.5% of the observed variation in proportion of dead/chlorotic leaves or 38.1% of the variation in root fresh weight within the inoculated populations. The effect of this QTL on resistance to P. medicaginis translated into 27.5% less dead/chlorotic leaves or 0.86 g more root fresh weight. Other QTLs with minor effects that are potentially involved in the interaction are located elsewhere on LG6 and LG2. However, the marker density of the linkage map and the population size need to be increased to verify this. In parallel to this, an F7 recombinant inbred line (RIL) population of chickpea (BG212 X Jimbour), developed by breeders at the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI), was also assessed for the genetic basis of resistance to P. medicaginis. Variance component analysis of phenotype scores for this intraspecific RIL population indicated that 57.15% of the differences in between-family and withinfamily variance could be attributed to a genetic component. However, gene-based markers developed in M. truncatula and established simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers of chickpea were not sufficiently polymorphic in size to produce a linkage map for further QTL analysis. An interspecific cross between C. arietinum and C. echinospermum (Howzat X ILWC246) was also performed by breeders at the NSW DPI to develop RILs. In the duration of this research these interspecific RILs were bred to generation F3 and phenotyping assessment had not been performed. However, marker screening of the parents revealed 122 size polymorphic chickpea SSR markers. A sufficient linkage map could be produced for QTL analysis once field assessment of this population is performed. Initial screening of the M. truncatula gene-based markers on the parents of this interspecific cross also revealed that 50% show a sequence-identified base pair difference. A chickpea linkage map incorporating these markers could be comparatively mapped with M. truncatula. Molecular investigations of the M. truncatula/P. medicaginis pathosystem were performed to elucidate the possible underlying defence mechanisms involved in the observed resistance. To determine the function of ethylene in the resistant response, the characterisation of defence associated mutants of M. truncatula and Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated 'hairy root' transformations were employed. Comparison of response to inoculation of an ethylene insensitive mutant of M. truncatula (sickle) with the moderately resistant background genotype A17 showed that sickle was hypersensitive to P. medicaginis. This indicated that ethylene insensitivity was not the source of resistance to this pathogen and importantly that ethylene is a key defence signalling molecule in the moderate resistance of A17 to P. medicaginis. Agrobacterium-mediated 'hairy root' transformations of M. truncatula with 4GCC::Luc constructs, revealed that the production of ethylene and consequently ethylene response factors (ERFs) after inoculation by P. medicaginis was a general defence reaction by all accessions. The two susceptible M. truncatula accessions exhibited a much stronger and earlier response to inoculation than the highly resistant and moderately resistant accessions. This indicated that the resistant response may be directed by a transcriptional component governed by the host genotype, downstream of ethylene production. The M. truncatula/P. medicaginis 'hairy root' transformation assay has scope to be a powerful functional genomics tool for this pathogen interaction. Reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RTqPCR) was employed to determine the general patterns of gene expression and function underlying the response to P. medicaginis infection. Relative changes in gene expression of key enzymes in each of the salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, ethylene and isoflavonoid defence pathways and in genes encoding downstream target proteins revealed potential genes involved in the resistance to P. medicaginis. There was a distinct molecular difference in the response between the high and moderately resistant M. truncatula phenotypes to this pathogen. Moderate resistance to P. medicaginis in M. truncatula is possibly mediated by ethylene and involves the considerable induction of pathogenesis related protein 5 (PR5), which was not the same defence response that conferred the high resistance to P. medicaginis. Early and consistent expression of genes encoding key enzymes of the isoflavonoid pathway by the highly resistant accession indicated that phytoalexin response could be associated with the high resistance. Confirmation of the involvement of isoflavonoid phytoalexins in the high resistance response to P. medicaginis merits further investigation.

Thesis (M. Sc.(Agronomy)) -- University of Limpopo, 2015
Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) is an important grain legume grown in many parts of the world mostly by smallholder (SH) farmers. Low soil phosphorus (P) and drought stress are major constraints to legume production and threaten food security. Root architecture is a spatial configuration of the root system which is influenced by moisture status and P uptake. A field experiment was conducted at Ukulima farm near Modimolle in Waterberg district during 2012/13 summer growing season. The treatments comprised of two levels each for soil P (low and high) and moisture status (water stress and well-watered); and eight cowpea genotypes (Tvu 4632, Tvu 6365, Tvu 9848, Tvu 15445, Tvu 16408, Tvu 15143, Oloyin and IT00K-1217). The low P level implied the available P in the soil measured in situ, which was less than 8 mg kg-1 while the high P level entailed fertilization at the rate of 40 kg P ha-1 application to achieve approximately 35 mg P kg-1 of soil . The root traits measured included angle of adventitious and basal roots, number of basal roots, tap root diameters at 5, 10, 15 and 20 cm soil depths; lateral branching densities at depth 5,10 and 15 cm, nodule score, deep score, shallowness score, 3rd order branching density, and 1.5 branching densities at 5 and 10 cm depth. Plant parameters measured were plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, length of the pods, unshelled weight, shelled weight and number of primary and secondary branches. Photosynthetic parameters measured were photosynthetic rate, intercellular CO2 concentration, water conductance, transpiration rate, vapour pressure deficits, sample cell CO2, sample cell H2O and relative humidity in the cell. All treatment factors were combined as split-split plot arrangement fitted into randomized complete block design; with four replicates. Results indicate that the lateral root branching density at 5 and 10 cm differed significantly (P≤0.05) across cowpea genotypes. Genotype showed significant effect on taproot diameter at 10 cm. Moisture status and P level exerted significant effect on cowpea genotypes 15 cm. There were significant differences (P≤0.05) for lateral root branching density observed at 5 and 10 cm depth in P rates x genotype interaction. Statistical analysis showed that P levels and cowpea genotypes had significant effects (P≤0.05) on mean plant height, biomass and highly significantly effects (P≤0.01) on number of branches, days to physiological maturity and mean pod length. The interaction between cowpea genotype and moisture stress condition significantly (P≤0.05) affected hundred (100) seed weight. Cowpea genotype Tvu16408 obtained highest grain yield of 3240 kg ha-1 and lowest was by IT00K1217 which obtained grain yield of 1256 kg ha-1. Results showed that photosynthetic rate, water conductance, transpiration rate, sample cell CO2, sample cell H2O, relative humidity in the cell, intercellular CO2 and vapour pressure deficit differed significantly (P≤0.05) across cowpea genotypes. Soil moisture condition and cowpea genotype exerted significant (P≤0.01) effect on photosynthetic rate, water conductance, transpiration rate, sample cell CO2, sample cell H2O and relative humidity in the cell. Variation in P levels had no significant effect on the measured photosynthetic parameters. Oloyin genotype had the highest photosynthetic rate followed by Tvu 4632 while cowpea genotype Tvu 9848 had the least photosynthetic rate. Interaction of moisture stress and cowpea genotype had a significant effect on intercellular CO2 concentration. Water stress reduced the intercellular CO2 concentration of Oloyin, Tvu 6365 and 4632 but resulted in a significant increase in intercellular CO2 concentration in Tvu 9848 genotype. Results showed that variation in soil P level exerted a significant (P≤0.05) effect on grain tissue P content and uptake, and a highly significant (P≤0.01) difference in P content across the various cowpea genotypes. Moisture stress exerted a significant (P≤0.05) difference on P uptake. The results showed that P levels and cowpea genotype variation exerted significant (P≤0.05) effects on P content, P uptake and nitrogen (N) uptake. Moisture status and cowpea genotype variation exerted significant (P≤0.05) effects on total N and N uptake. Cowpea genotype Tvu 9848 obtained more total N content (4.37%), while the lowest total N content was obtained by cowpea genotype Tvu 15445 with 3035 mg kg-1. The interaction between cowpea genotype and moisture status exerted a significant (P≤0.05) effect on N and P uptake of immature green pods harvested. There is a need to conduct more studies to identify cowpea genotypes, their root architecture and agronomic measures that can do well under xvii drought stress and low soil P conditions. Research needs to be conducted to enhance cowpea productivity under both low soil P and drought stress. Keywords: cowpea genotypes; moisture stress; phosphorus fertilisation; root traits

The incorporation of cereal straw/stubble often immobilises nitrogen (N). This can help conserve N in soil in organic forms, thus reducing loss through leaching over dormant winter periods. However, N-depressions that arise during decomposition can reduce crop yield. The inclusion of a legume green manure can supply fixed-N, thus alleviating the low N availability to crops. In this study, the effect of lupin (Lupinus angustifolius L.) green manure incorporation on barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) straw/stubble decomposition, and N availability was investigated. A field experiment was used to determine the effects of the green manure on decomposition. Decomposition of straw/stubble was monitored using the litterbag technique. Following green manure incorporation, soil cores were incubated in a glasshouse to determine mineral-N availability. Though not significant, the inclusion of lupin green manure seemed to increase the decomposition of straw/stubble during the growth period, then slowing it after its incorporation at 110 d. This was described by a logarithmic pattern of loss of - 4.97 g AFDW residue day⁻¹, with 60% remaining after 140 d. Treatments without lupin had a linear decomposition of - 0.12 g AFDW residue day⁻¹, with 49% remaining after 140 d. The loss of cellulose confirmed the differences in decomposition with the inclusion of lupin resulting in 2.79% less cellulose remaining in straw/stubble after 140 d compared to its exclusion. Lupin significantly increased pot oat N uptake and DM yield by 55 % and 46 %, respectively, compared to its exclusion. However, this effect was not observed in field sown wheat yields and the soil mineral-N measurements made. This study showed that the potential of lupin to increase straw/stubble decomposition by improving the retention and availability of N, leading to long-term yield benefits, needed further investigation.

Thesis (PhD)--Stellenbosch University, 2004.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This project aimed at enhancing the net benefit in production systems. It took a holistic approach to evaluate the potential interactions of herbaceous legumes in relation to weed dynamics, soil fertility and livestock management in the crop-livestock system in Nigeria. The project was carried out between 2000 and 2002 in two localities. These were the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) at Zaria in the northern Guinea savannah and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) at Ibadan in the derived savannah. The main experiment was carried out in the northern Guinea savannah, while the secondary experiments were simultaneously conducted in the derived savannah and the northern Guinea savannah. The experimental design for the three experiments reported in this thesis is a splitsplit plot, fitted into randomised complete block design (RCBD), with four replications. Main plot treatments were herbaceous legumes, namely Vigna unguiculata, Arachis hypogaea, Glycine max, Aeschynomene bistrix, Centrosema pascuorum, Stylosanthes guianensis and natural vegetation. Sub-plot treatments were management systems (1) M1, 'residues left in the field'; (2) M2, 'residues taken out of the field' and (3) M3, 'residues fed to livestock, manure/urine/refused feeds returned'. Sub-plot treatments were administered in a sequence following rotational fallows of herbaceous legumes and natural vegetation. However, plots in the secondary experiments were not subdivided before the cropping of maize in 2002, and for logistical reasons only two sub-plot treatments, M1and M2, are featured in this experiment. Herbaceous legumes were established at the start of the rainy season, approximately in June, in 2000, 2001 and 2002. All herbaceous legumes received single super phosphate (SSP) at 20kg ha" P20S at planting, while minimum hand weeding was done to maintain pure legume stands during the establishment phase. Forage biomass was higher in the derived savannah than in the northern Guinea savannah. Similarly, higher forage yields were observed after two consecutive years of legume fallow and natural vegetation, compared to the first year plots. Grain yield for Glycine max was consistently higher than for the other two grain legumes in 2001 and 2002. Chemical analysis of herbaceous legumes and natural vegetation showed that crude protein values ranged between 11.2% to 17.3% for legumes; that was significantly (p<0.05) higher than the 8.6% value found for natural vegetation. Moreover, all herbaceous legumes and natural vegetation, except Arachis hypogaea, had dry matter digestibility values of more than 30%. Maize grain and stover yields on herbaceous legumes fallowed plots were evaluated and compared with those for natural vegetation. Results in 2001, i.e. after a one-year fallow with legumes, indicated that the dry matter of maize grain and stover yields in the Stylosanthes guianensis plots were higher among the forage legumes. Arachis hypogaea gave the highest grain and stover yields among the grain legumes in the northern Guinea savannah. Results in 2002, i.e. after a two-year fallow, also showed that the productivity of maize planted on Arachis hypogaea and Glycine max fallowed plots were consistently higher across the three management systems tested in the Centrosema pascuorum, Glycine max, Aeschynomene histrix, Vigna unguiculata and least weight gain was recorded for the natural vegetation. Objective functions in linear optimisation, or linear combinations in algebra, used to link dynamic processes in livestock production (Iiveweight gain) with the dynamic processes in soils (soil nitrogen), weeds (weed biomass), herbaceous legumes (legume biomass) and crop production (maize grain and stover yields) under varying management systems took the form: Management system 1, Y, = f (XI, Xz, x4); Yr= 0 Management system 2, Y, = f (x" x2); Yz = 0 Management system 3, Y, = f (XI, Xz, xl); Yz= f (XI, Xz, X4. x5) Where (1) (2) (3) Y1 = Crop in kg; Y2 = Livestock weight gain in kg; X1= Weed in kg; X2 = Soil N g kg-1; X3 = Livestock compost in kg; N= Herbaceous legumes in kg; X5 = Maize stover in kg, for the three management systems considered in this experiment. Deductions from these equations showed that Aeschynomene histrix performed better under M1, i.e. when legumes residues were left on the field. Natural vegetation performed better than the herbaceous legumes under M2, i.e. when legumes residues were exported out of the field. However, the presence of manure in M3 enhanced soil fertility in the system and improved the overall productivity across all the legumes and natural vegetation. Overall rankings, conducted by pooling all components in the system, indicated that Glycine max performed best among the legumes, followed by Stylosanthes guianensis and Arachis hypogaea, which ranked second and viithird respectively. In relation to the specific legume groups, Stylosanthes guianensis performed better than the other two forage legumes, while Glycine max also performed better than the other two grain legumes tested. We can see from these on-station research results that there are indications of positive opportunities for improving overall productivity and resources. This can be done through integrating and complementing crop and livestock production, to provide a sustainable intensification of agriculture.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die studie is uitgevoer om die potensiële wisselwerking van kruidagtige peulplante met onkruiddinamika, grondvrugbaarheid en veebestuur te evalueer. Die hoofeksperiment in die "Northern Guinea Savannah" is vanaf 2000 tot 2002 uitgevoer by die "National Animal Production Research Institute" (NAPRI) in Zaria, Nigerië. Die twee sekondêre eksperimente is gelyktydig in Zaria en by die "International Institute of Tropical Agriculture" (liTA) naby Ibadan in die "Derived Savannah" uitgevoer. Die eksperimentele ontwerp was 'n dubbel gesplete perseelontwerp gepas in 'n volledig ewekansige blokontwerp met vier herhalings. Die hoofkomponente was die kruidagtige peulplante naamlik: Vigna unguiculata, Arachis hypogaea, Glycine max, Aeschynomene histrix, Centrosema pascuorum, Stylosanthes guianensis en natuurlike plantegroei. Die gekose peulplante is potensieel aangepas vir uiteenlopende omgewings en word dikwels na verwys as "'n mandjie van opsies". Subperseel behandelings was (1) peulplant gevestig en gelaat op die land - M1; (2) peulplant gevestig, geoes en weggeneem uit die land M2 en (3) peulplant gevestig, geoes, vir vee gevoer, mis/urine/vermorste voer terug na die land - M3. Die dubbel gesplete perseel behandelings is toegedien in 'n sekere volgorde nadat die peulplant rusoes/braak toegepas is. In die eerste jaar is die kruidagtige peulplante geplant op die hoofperseel van 25m by Sam. In die tweede jaar is die hoofperseel verdeel in twee persele waar onderskeidelik peulplante en mielies gevestig is terwyl daar in die derde jaar 'n verdere verdeling was wat gelei het tot verskillende gewasrotasiestelsels, nl. Peulplant-peulplant-mielies, peulplant-mielies-peulplant en peulplant-mielies-mielies. Parameters wat insluit planthoogte, -wydte en persentasie grondbedekking van die kruidagtige peulplante is tweeweekliks gemeet op vier 1M2 persele wat ewekansig oor elke hoofperseel versprei is in beide gebiede waar die studie uitgevoer is. Resultate het getoon dat die kruidagtige peulplante wat getoets is potensiële kandidate is vir insluitings in gewas/weiding rotasiesteiseis. Alhoewel voerproduksie hoër was in die "derived savannah" as in die "northern Guinea savannah", het die prestasie van die peulplante in die noordelike savannah gevarieer met die gewasproduksiestelsels. Hoër opbrengste is gerealiseer na twee opeenvolgende jare van oesrus met peulplante vergeleke met die eerste jaar waar daar geen residuele effek van die peulplante was nie, en die laaste jaar wat deur 'n mielie-oes voorafgegaan is. Biomassa opbrengste na twee jaar van aanhoudende verbouiing was die hoogste vir S. guianensis en die laagste vir A. hypogea. Ruproteien inhoud van die kruidagtige peulplante het gewissel van 170 g kg-1 DM in A. hypogea tot 62.4 g kg-1 DM in A histrix. Graanproduksie deur G. max was deurlopend hoër in 2001 en 2002 vergeleke met die twee ander graanproduserende peulplante nl. V. unguiculata en A. hypogea. Die voerproduksie in 2002 was heelwat hoër as die vorige jaar. Rotasie effekte op mieliegraan en oesreste na peulplante is vergelyk oor die dubbel gesplete persele (areas met verskillende oesruslengtes) om die ximplikasies van hulle residuele effek op grondvrugbaarheid verbetering en onkruid dinamika te bepaal. Mielie-opbrengs na een jaar van rusoes toon hoër waardes op persele wat onder kruidagtige peulplante was vergeleke met natuurlike plantegroei. Net so was die opbrengs deurlopend hoër op persele waar daar graan peulplante was as waar daar voer peulplante was. Oor die algemeen was die waardes hoër vir G. max, gevolg deur A. hypogea, A. histrix, C. pascuorum, V. unguiculata, S. guianensis en die laagste vir natuurlike plantegroei. In terme van die bestuurstelsels, het persele wat kompos ontvang het (M3) beter as die ander twee bestuurstelsels presteer (2.6 Mg ha" mieliegraan). Produksie van mieliegraan en oesreste na twee opeenvolgende jare van mielieverbouing was die hoogste na G. max (7.2 Mg ha" mieliegraan), gevolg deur die A. histrix perseel en die laagste op S. guianensis persele. Algemene waarnemings oor die twee subpersele wat met mielies beplant was in 2002 het getoon dat mielies beter presteer het op persele wat twee opeenvolgende jare met peulplante beplant was. Onkruidsamestelling en verspreiding is in beide die peulplante en natuurlike plantegroei gemeet. Grond vir saadbankontledings is op diagonale transekte in 0.5m by 0.5m kwadrate gemonster. Grondmonsters is ge-analiseer vir pH, totale stikstof, organiese koolstof, fosfor, kalsium en magnesium. Hierdie parameters is gebruik in 'n meervoudige regressie ontleding om hulle effek op onkruidspesievoorkoms te bepaal. Onkruidgetalle in lande na In rusoes het In deurlopende hoër vlak van besmetting getoon op die natuurlike plantegroei persele as op die peulplant persele. Die prestasie in terme van onkruidonderdrukking was in dalende volgorde: S. guianensis, C. pascuorum, V. ungucuilata, G. max, A. hypogaea en A. histrix. Die onkruidsamestelling het verskilonder die verskillende behandelings en dit het ook met tyd verander in dieselfde behandelings. In Bykomende eksperiment met die peulplante is uitgevoer om hulle effek op inname en groei van skape, asook die effek op kompos wat gemaak is van vermorste materiaal en uitskeidings van die skape, te bepaal. Droë materiaal verteerbaarheid was hoog vir S guianensis, G. max en A. histrix terwyl die laagste syfer verkry is by A. hypogea (177.6 g kg-1 DM). Ramme wat met kruidagtige peulplante gevoer is het beter presteer as die wat met natuurlike plantegroei gevoer is. Ramme wat met A. hypogaea gevoer is, het In gemiddelde daaglikse toename (GOT) getoon van 85.7 g daq", gevolg deur S. guianensis, C. pascuorum, G. max, A. histrix, V. unguiculata en laaste natuurlike plantegroei. Bykomende ontledings was gemik daarop om objektiewe funksies af te lei om dinamiese prosesse in vee (massatoename) met dinamiese prosesse in grond (grond N), onkruid (onkruidmassa), kruidagtige peulplante (peulplantmassa) en mielies (mieliegraan en oesreste massas) onder verskillende bestuurstelsels te verbind. In In poging om objektiewe funksies xiivan die verskillende komponente van die studie te bepaal, is die volgende lineêre funksies vir die drie bestuurstelsels oorweeg nl. Bestuurstelsel1. Yl = f (Xl, xz, x.); Yz= 0 Bestuurstelsel 2, Yl = f (Xl, Xz); Yz= 0 Bestuurstelsel3, Yl = f (Xl, X2, Xl); Yz= f (Xl. Xz. x.. les) Waar (1) (2) (3) Y1 = Oesopbrengs in kg; Y2 = Daaglikse massatoename in kg; X1 = Onkruidmassa in kg; X2 = Grond N in g kg-1 ; X3 = Kompos in kg; X4 = Kruidagtige peulplante in kg; X5 = Mieliereste in kg. Onder bestuurstelsel 1, het A. histrix beter as die ander gewasse presteer, terwyl natuurlike veld beter presteer het onder bestuurstelsel 2. Dit is 'n aanduiding dat bestuurstelsel 2 nie volhoubaar is nie. Die derde bestuurstelsel verteenwoordig volle integrasie van gewas en vee produksiestelsels. Die teenwoordigheid van mis in die stelsel het grondvrugbaarheid verbeter en algemene produktiwiteit verbeter. Hierdie resultate dui aan dat daar geleenthede is om algemene produktiwiteit te verbeter deur integrasie en komplementering van gewas- en veeproduksiestelsels om volhoubare intensifikasie van landbou te bereik.

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Conselho Nacional de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico - CNPq
Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES
Extensive grazing is the main Brazilian meat production system. Usually pasture yield soon after implantation is high, but it declines after a few years of exploration, showing degradation signs. Nitrogen is one of the most important nutrients on degradation, due to both high costs of fertilization and nutrient loss by the system. An alternative to nitrogen fertilization is the use of forage legumes, which fix nitrogen due to their symbiosis with rhizobia, and which have a lower C/N ratio. Considering the potential use of legumes in pastures, this work aims to evaluate the effect of forage legume implantation in degraded Brachiaria decumbens pasture on soil fertility and microbiology. To this end, 540 m² plots are being cultivated with Arachis pintoi Krap & Greg cv Amarillo, Clitoria ternatea L., Calopogonium mucunoides Desv and Campo Grandes Stylosanthes, which is a 80:20 weight basis mix of Stylosanthes capitata and S. macrocephala intercalated with B. decumbens lines, as well as two brachiaria only treatments, with and without nitrogen fertilizer, totaling six treatments. pH, Al3+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, P, sum of basis (SB) and aluminum saturation (m) were evaluated at 0-10, 10-20 and 20-40 depths, and soil microbial biomass carbon (C-BMS) and nitrogen (N-BMS), soil basal respiration (RBS), metabolic quoficient (qCO2), and carbon and nitrogen ratio of the microbial biomass (C/N) at the 0-10 cm depth. Sampling was on a transect parallel to plot length, representing legume and grass strips. Legume strips had lower soil basal respiration, pH, sum of basis, Ca2+ and Mg2+ while Al3+ and aluminum saturation increased. Calcium increased in comparison to the values before the experiment. Changes in soil fertility due to legumes must be considered for soil correction and fertilization recommendations.
A exploração extensiva de pastagens é o principal sistema de produção de carne no Brasil. Geralmente a produtividade logo após a implantação da pastagem é alta, mais cai após alguns anos, apresentando sinais de degradação. O nitrogênio é um dos nutrientes mais importantes na degradação, devido ao alto custo da adubação e elevadas perdas apresentadas pelo sistema. Uma alternativa à adubação nitrogenada é o cultivo de leguminosas forrageiras que fixam nitrogênio pela sua simbiose com rizóbios e que possuem baixa relação C/N. Considerando o uso potencial de leguminosas em pastagens, este trabalho visa analisar o efeito da implantação de leguminosas forrageiras em pastagem degradada de Brachiaria decumbens sobre fertilidade e microbiologia do solo. Para tanto estão sendo cultivadas parcelas de 540 m2 com Arachis pintoi Krap & Greg cv. Amarillo, Clitoria ternatea L., Calopogonium mucunoides Desv. e Estilosantes Campo Grande,que corresponde a uma mistura de 80:20 em peso das espécies Stylosanthes capitata e S. macrocephala, intercaladas por linhas de B. decumbens, bem como dois tratamentos somente com braquiária, com e sem adubação nitrogenada, totalizando seis tratamentos. PH, Al3+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, P, SB e m foram avaliados nas profundidades de 0-10, 10-20 e 20-40 cm, e valores de carbono da biomassa microbiana do solo (C-BMS), nitrogênio da biomassa microbiana do solo (N-BMS), respiração basal do solo (RBS), coeficiente metabólico (qCO2), relação entre o carbono e nitrogênio da biomassa microbiana (C/N) na profundidade de 0-10cm. A amostragem foi realizada em transecto paralelo ao comprimento da parcela, representando as faixas de leguminosa e gramínea. As faixas sob leguminosas apresentaram menor respiração basal do solo, pH, soma de bases, magnésio e potássio trocáveis, enquanto alumínio e saturação por alumínio aumentaram. Houve incremento de cálcio em comparação com o início do experimento. A modificação na fertilidade do solo em função da leguminosa deve ser considerada nas recomendações de correção do solo e fertilização.

L’application de l’agromine à des zones ultramafiques délaissées constitue un enjeu majeur à la vue des surfaces potentiellement valorisables. Par contre, les sols ultramafiques sont particuliers avec de fortes concentrations en métaux et une quasi absence de matière organique. Malgré tout, la mise en place de l’agromine a déjà donné de bons résultats, couplée avec l’application d’herbicides et une fertilisation minérale. Notre défi a été de développer une agromine durable par la mise en place d’agro-écosystèmes basés sur l’introduction d’une légumineuse en association avec une plante hyperaccumulatrice et la suppression de tout intrant chimique. Nos résultats ont confirmé clairement que l'introduction d'une légumineuse dans l’agromine a amélioré la production de biomasse de Alyssum murale et les rendements de nickel par rapport à sa monoculture fertilisée et non fertilisée. Nos travaux ont également montré que l'insertion d'une légumineuse dans l’agromine permet d’améliorer la structure du sol avec des agrégats plus stables. De plus, de meilleures teneurs en carbone, azote et en matière organique ont été détectées. L’ensemble de ces éléments conduit ainsi à une amélioration globale de la structure du sol, de sa fertilité et de son biofonctionnement. Corrélativement, nos résultats ont mis en évidence les effets positifs de ces nouvelles pratiques, à la fois sur la taille, la diversité et les acitivités liées aux cycles biogéochimiques des communautés bactériennes. D’un point de vue écononique, l’introduction de la légumineuse dans l’agromine implique un gain financier et de temps du fait de la réduction de l'application d’engrais et de produits phytosanitaires. Enfin, tous ces avantages conduisent à une réhabilitation des sols ultramafiques avec une restauration de leurs qualités physique, chimique et biologique, tout en permettant à ces sols particuliers d’offrir plusieurs services écosystémiques
The application of agromining to abandoned ultramafic areas is a major challenge in the presence of potentially recoverable areas. Howerver, ultramafic soils are particular in terms of their fertility with high concentrations of metals and a near absence of organic matter. Nevertheless, this challenge was partly met by the application of chemical fertilizers and herbicides. Our challenge, through this PhD, was to develop a sustainable agro-ecosystem based on the introduction of a legume in association with the hyperaccumulating plant and then the reduction of any chemical input. Our results clearly confirmed that the introduction of a legume into these new cropping systems improved both the biomass production of Alyssum murale and the Ni yields in comparison to the fertilized and non-fertilized monoculture. Our work has also shown that the insertion of a legume into agromining cropping systems improves the structure of the soil due to stable and larger aggregates. In addition, higher levels of carbon and nitrogen and higher concentrations of organic matter were detected. These results led to an overall improvement of the soil structure, its fertility and its biofunctioning. Our results showed positive effects of these new cropping systems, both on the size of the bacterial communities and on the microbial enzymes involved in the soil biogeochemical cycles. In addition, the structure and diversity of bacterial communities were modified with the insertion of the legume, compared to the monoculture. Economically, the introduction of legume into cropping systems dedicated to Ni agromining involves a gain of money and time due to reduced application of mineral fertilizers as well as products of phytosanitary. Finally, all these benefits lead to the rehabilitation of ultramafic soils with the restoration of their physical, chemical and biological qualities while allowing these particular soils to offer many ecosystem services

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Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)
O sistema plantio direto (SPD) tem como pressuposto a exigência de cobertura vegetal permanente sobre o solo e, em condições climáticas favoráveis à decomposição dos resíduos orgânicos, há necessidade de implantação de culturas de cobertura no outono-inverno. Com este trabalho objetivou-se avaliar, em condições de campo, a produção de matéria seca e a extração de macronutrientes de feijão-deporco, milheto, mucuna-preta, sorgo granífero e vegetação espontânea, e seus efeitos nos atributos químicos do solo e na produtividade do milho. O experimento foi conduzido em Arealva-SP, em Latossolo Vermelho argiloso, há seis anos cultivado em SPD. Os tratamentos, em delineamento em blocos ao acaso com cinco repetições, foram: feijão-de-porco, milheto, mucuna-preta, sorgo granífero e vegetação espontânea, as espécies cultivadas instaladas no outono-inverno, em sucessão a cultura de soja e antecedendo o milho. Foram avaliados os atributos químicos do solo, nas camadas de 0 – 5 cm, 5 – 10 cm e 10 – 20 cm, em amostras coletadas, no primeiro ano, logo após a emergência da soja e, no segundo, após a dessecação das plantas de cobertura e antes da semeadura do milho. Também foram avaliadas a matéria seca e a extração de macronutrientes pelas plantas de cobertura, e a produtividade da cultura do milho em sucessão. As variações na acidez do solo, na disponibilidade de P, K, Ca e Mg, na CTC e no teor de matéria orgânica, foram pequenas ou inexistentes. O cultivo de sorgo no outono-inverno resultou em maior produção de matéria seca do que milheto, mucunapreta, feijão-de-porco e vegetação espontânea. Não houve efeito das plantas de cobertura na produtividade do milho.
In no-tillage system it was assumed that the permanent soil cover is necessary, and in favorable conditions to organic residue decomposition, it is necessary to establish cover crops in autumn-winter. This study aimed to evaluate, under field conditions, the dry matter production and nutrient extraction by spontaneous vegetation, Mucuna aterrima, Canavalia ensiformis, Pennisetum glaucum and Sorghum bicolor, and their effects on soil chemical attributes and maize yield. The experiment was carried out in Arealva, in the central region of São Paulo State, Brazil, in an Oxisol, sixyear cropped in no-tillage system. The treatments, in randomized blocks and with five replicates were: spontaneous vegetation, Mucuna aterrima, Canavalia ensiformis, Pennisetum glaucum and Sorghum bicolor, carried out in autumn-winter in succession to soybean and before maize growing. Soil chemical attributes at 0 - 5 cm, 5 - 10 cm and 10 - 20 cm depth were evaluated and soil samples were collected soon after the soybean emergence in the first year and after the cover crops desiccation and before maize sowing in the second year. Dry matter production and nutrients extraction by cover crops and maize productivity grown in succession were also evaluated. Variations in soil acidity, P, K, Ca and Mg availability, CEC and organic matter content were small or nonexistent. Sorghum bicolor grown in autumn-winter resulted in higher dry matter production than Pennisetum glaucum, Mucuna aterrima, Canavalia ensiformis and spontaneous vegetation. There was no effect of cover crops in maize yield.

Thesis (MSc)--Stellenbosch University, 2015.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Vermicomposts (VCs) are the solid excreta of earthworms, known to contain plant available nutrients, large amounts of microbial life and diversity, and plant growth regulating hormones. VCs may play an integral role in the nitrogen nutrition of Lupinus angustifolius and function to reduce the reliance of legume crops on chemical fertilizers. Furthermore, the effects of the combination of VC solids and VC teas on legume growth and N nutrition, is unknown. The aim of the present study was to determine the role of varying concentrations of chicken manure VC, with and without the additions of varying VC tea concentrations, on the substrate bacterial functional diversity, plant biomass and N nutrition of the legume, L. angustifolius. In the first experiment the plants were grown in pots under glasshouse conditions and VC was substituted into the quartz sand growth media at rates of 5%, 10% and 100%. Furthermore, rhizobia inoculated and non-inoculated groups were established within the VC treatments. The plants were harvested after 30 days and analysed for tissue nutrient concentrations and biomass production. The VC-containing substrates were assessed for wide-spectrum soil analyses, nematode diversity and microbial diversity via Biolog EcoPlates. In the second experiment the plants were grown under similar conditions for 50 days and amended with 5% VC in the growth media as well as 50ml of aerated VC teas. The teas were brewed for 24 hours in concentrations of 4%, 10% and 20% (v/v), with molasses and kelp extract added as sugar sources. The combined treatments of 5% VC and rhizobia inoculation yielded the greatest biomass response. Furthermore the addition of VC allowed for bacterial nitrogen fixation within non-rhizobia treatments. However, changes in VC concentration had no effect on bacterial guild structure but were found to effect nematode funtional diversity. The additions of VC teas to soil media containing 5% VC had no effect on biomass production but were found to influence bacterial nitrogen fixation. Lower concentration teas increased BNF while the 20% tea reduced this parameter significantly over 50 days. The 20% tea also contained significantly greater bacterial functional diversity than the 5% and 10% teas. The findings of study indicate that the combined treatment of VC solids and teas do not increase the plant biomass of L. angustifolius, but that the additions of 20% teas result in greater microbial diversity in the soil. This in turn may lead to increases in soil fertility. Furthermore, additions of high concentration vermicompost teas (20%) shift the dependence of the plant from atmospheric N sources to soil N sources.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen opsomming beskikbaar

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Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES
The presence of an arboreal component, such as in agroforestry systems, can promote a better balance of tropical ecological processes, allowing agricultural exploration in vertical and horizontal landscape profiles. This, together with the inclusion of single or intercropped cover crops in the agroforestry understory can increase the beneficial effects through interaction among species, favoring greater nutrient accumulation and cycling. Therefore, the objective of this research was to evaluate the soil chemical attributes and the performance of agricultural species and cover crops in rotation/consortium in an agroforestry system in the cerrado region of Goiás. The research was carried out between 2012 and 2016, in the city of Goiânia-Goiás, in an agroforestry system implanted in an 8- year-old Baru forest (Dipteryx alata V.). Soil from the experimental area was classified as typical dystrophic Red Latosol. The experimental design was randomized complete block (RCB), with four replications. Cover plants were cultivated singly: Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan); Stylosanthes cv. Campo Grande (Stylosanthes macrocephala - 20% and Stylosanthes capitata - 80%); Massai grass (Panicum maximum) and intercropped: Pigeon pea+ Massai grass and Stylosanthes + Massai grass, in addition to an area under spontaneous vegetation (control treatment). We evaluated soil chemical fertility and dry phytomass productivity and macronutrient accumulations by cover crops, quality and yield of corn silage grown in rotation with the cover plants, relative index of chlorophylls and growth of Banana trees cultivated in consortium with the cover plants, in addition to the growth of the Baru trees during this period (height, diameter at breast height and crown diameter). The Campo Grande Stylosanthes increased the calcium contents, pH values and sum of bases in the soil solution at depth 0-10 cm after two years of cultivation. However, Massai grass, alone, increased potassium levels at depth 0-10 and 10-20 cm in the same cultivation year. The dry matter yield of silage maize was similar among the residual straw of Pigeon pea, Massai grass, and Stylosanthes + Massai grass cultivars. However, cultivation with residual Stylosanthes increased the crude protein percentage. The growth in height of the banana trees at 6 and 12 months was higher in consortium with Massai grass when compared to the area maintained with spontaneous vegetation. The incremental increase in height of Baru trees only increased after two years through the residual Campo Grande Stylosanthes. The highest productivity of dry phytomass was obtained from Massai grass, alone. The accumulations of nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium and sulfur were similar among Massai grass alone, Stylosanthes alone, and Massai grass + Stylosanthes consortium. However, potassium and magnesium accumulations were only higher in the aerial part of the Massai grass, alone.
A presença do componente arbóreo, como em sistemas agroflorestais, pode promover maior equilíbrio dos processos ecológicos tropicais, possibilitando uma exploração agrícola em perfis verticais e horizontais da paisagem. Isto, aliado a inserção de plantas de cobertura solteiras ou consorciadas nos sub-bosque agroflorestal pode aumentar os efeitos benéficos pela interação entre as espécies, favorecendo maior acúmulo e ciclagem de nutrientes. Com isso, o objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar os atributos químicos do solo e o desempenho de espécies agrícolas e plantas de coberturas em rotação/consórcio em sistema agroflorestal na região do cerrado goiano. A pesquisa foi realizada entre os anos de 2012 e 2016, na cidade de Goiânia-Goiás, em um sistema agroflorestal implantado em uma floresta de barueiros (Dipteryx alata V.) com 8 anos de idade. O solo da área experimental foi classificado como Latossolo Vermelho distrófico típico. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados (DBC), com quatro repetições. As plantas de cobertura foram cultivadas solteiras: feijão guandu (Cajanus cajan); estilosantes cv. campo grande (Stylosanthes macrocephala - 20% e Stylosanthes capitata - 80%); capim massai (Panicum maximum) e consorciadas: feijão guandu + massai e estilosantes + massai, além de uma área mantida sob vegetação espontânea (tratamento controle). Foram avaliados os atributos de fertilidade química do solo, a produtividade de fitomassa seca e os acúmulos de macronutrientes pelas plantas de cobertura, a qualidade e a produtividade do milho para silagem cultivado em rotação as plantas de cobertura, o índice relativo de clorofilas e o crescimento de bananeiras cultivado em consórcio com as plantas de cobertura, além do crescimento das árvores de barueiros durante este período (altura, diâmetro a altura do peito e diâmetro de copa). O estilosantes campo grande aumenta os teores de cálcio, valores de pH e soma de bases na solução do solo na profundidade 0-10 cm após dois anos de cultivo. Todavia, o capim massai solteiro aumenta os teores de potássio na profundidade 0-10 e 10-20 cm no mesmo ano de cultivo. A produtividade de matéria seca de milho para silagem é semelhante entre os cultivos com residual de palhada de estilosantes, feijão guandu, massai e estilosantes + massai, entretanto, o cultivo com residual de estilosantes aumenta o percentual de proteína bruta. O crescimento em altura das bananeiras aos 6 e 12 meses é maior no consórcio com capim massai quando comparado à área mantida com vegetação espontânea. O incremento de crescimento em altura das árvores de barueiros é aumentado somente após dois anos através do residual de estilosantes campo grande. A maior produtividade de fitomassa seca é obtida como capim massai solteiro. Os acúmulos de nitrogênio, fósforo, cálcio e enxofre são semelhantes entre o capim massai solteiro, o estilosantes solteiro e o consórcio estilosantes + massai, entretanto os acúmulos de potássio e magnésio somente são superiores na parte aérea do capim massai solteiro.

This study was conducted in the old arable land located in Lushington communal area in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The objectives of the study were to assess the effect of legume introduction on biomass yield, forage and soil mineral levels of the arable lands planted to four leguminous pastures in four seasons. Planting was done in March and October 2008 in Lushington. All legumes were subjected to grow under rain fed conditions. Trifolium vesiculosum (arrowleaf clover), Lespedeza cuneata (sericea lespedeza), Trifolium repens (white clover) and Lotus corniculatus (birdsfoot trefoil) are the four forage legume species that were sampled for the purposes of this study. The four legume species persisted out of the fourteen species that were initially tested for adaptability and persistence in the environmental conditions of Lushington communal area. The legumes, grasses and soils from these legume plots were sampled to determine the effect of legume introduction on the forage yield, mineral contents of the companion grasses and soils over four seasons. Plant and soil samples were collected once in spring (November) 2013, summer (February), autumn (March) and winter (May) 2014 for biomass production, macro and micronutrients determination. Results indicated that legume inclusion and season affected (P < 0.05) the total dry matter (TDM) yield production. Plots with Lespedeza cuneata had the highest TDM (1843 kg/ha) and control plots had the least dry matter production (1091 kg/ha). Summer season provided the highest (P < 0.05) TDM compared to the other seasons. Both legume and grass quality was also affected (P < 0.05) by legume inclusion in different seasons. Accordingly, grasses harvested from Trifolium repens plot showed higher CP level (10.90 percent) than those harvested from other plots whereas the lowest grass CP content (6.90 percent) was measured in the control treatment. L. cuneate had the highest (P < 0.05) CP level (11.00 percent) and T. repens had the least CP (6.63 percent) level. Grasses harvested in autumn had the highest (P < 0.05) CP level (12.50 percent) and those harvested in winter had the least CP level (4.60 percent). Similarly, all legume pastures harvested in spring had superior (P < 0.05) CP (10.80 percent) levels and those harvested in winter had the least CP (3.50 percent) level. Legume inclusion had an effect (P < 0.05) on both grass and legume macro nutrient contents. Trifolium repens plot had the highest grass K (1.07 percent), Ca (1.50 percent) and Mg (1.83 percent), whereas there were lower K (0.12 percent), Ca (1.25 percent) and Mg (1.08 percent) contents in grasses harvested from the control and T. vesiculosum plots, respectively. In legumes, macro nutrient concentrations: K (0.68 percent), Ca (1.75 percent) were superior in the T. vesiculosum plot in comparison to other plots. Season also affected (P < 0.05) both grass and legume macro nutrient content. There was higher K (0.90 percent), Ca (1.30 percent) and Mg (0.94 percent) content in grasses harvested in autumn whereas there were lower levels in winter harvests. In legumes, superior K (0.74 percent) and Mg (1.87 percent) content were attained during spring while the least were measured in winter (0.07 percent) and autumn (0.75 percent), respectively. Likewise, both legume inclusion and season had an significant effect (P < 0.05) on the forages micronutrient levels. During spring, there was superior soil P content (36.28 mg/kg) while during autumn; there was less P (22.58 mg/kg) content. The highest SOC level (1.49 percent) was measured in the T. repens plot whereas the lowest SOC (1.15 percent) was attained in the control plot. The results of this study showed that grass legume mixtures produced forages with high nutrient content and herbage yield. Legume planting in the old arable lands has a potential to improve soil quality parameters such as soil P and SOC content.

Resumo: O sistema plantio direto (SPD) tem como pressuposto a exigência de cobertura vegetal permanente sobre o solo e, em condições climáticas favoráveis à decomposição dos resíduos orgânicos, há necessidade de implantação de culturas de cobertura no outono-inverno. Com este trabalho objetivou-se avaliar, em condições de campo, a produção de matéria seca e a extração de macronutrientes de feijão-deporco, milheto, mucuna-preta, sorgo granífero e vegetação espontânea, e seus efeitos nos atributos químicos do solo e na produtividade do milho. O experimento foi conduzido em Arealva-SP, em Latossolo Vermelho argiloso, há seis anos cultivado em SPD. Os tratamentos, em delineamento em blocos ao acaso com cinco repetições, foram: feijão-de-porco, milheto, mucuna-preta, sorgo granífero e vegetação espontânea, as espécies cultivadas instaladas no outono-inverno, em sucessão a cultura de soja e antecedendo o milho. Foram avaliados os atributos químicos do solo, nas camadas de 0 - 5 cm, 5 - 10 cm e 10 - 20 cm, em amostras coletadas, no primeiro ano, logo após a emergência da soja e, no segundo, após a dessecação das plantas de cobertura e antes da semeadura do milho. Também foram avaliadas a matéria seca e a extração de macronutrientes pelas plantas de cobertura, e a produtividade da cultura do milho em sucessão. As variações na acidez do solo, na disponibilidade de P, K, Ca e Mg, na CTC e no teor de matéria orgânica, foram pequenas ou inexistentes. O cultivo de sorgo no outono-inverno resultou em maior produção de matéria seca do que milheto, mucunapreta, feijão-de-porco e vegetação espontânea. Não houve efeito das plantas de cobertura na produtividade do milho.
Abstract: In no-tillage system it was assumed that the permanent soil cover is necessary, and in favorable conditions to organic residue decomposition, it is necessary to establish cover crops in autumn-winter. This study aimed to evaluate, under field conditions, the dry matter production and nutrient extraction by spontaneous vegetation, Mucuna aterrima, Canavalia ensiformis, Pennisetum glaucum and Sorghum bicolor, and their effects on soil chemical attributes and maize yield. The experiment was carried out in Arealva, in the central region of São Paulo State, Brazil, in an Oxisol, sixyear cropped in no-tillage system. The treatments, in randomized blocks and with five replicates were: spontaneous vegetation, Mucuna aterrima, Canavalia ensiformis, Pennisetum glaucum and Sorghum bicolor, carried out in autumn-winter in succession to soybean and before maize growing. Soil chemical attributes at 0 - 5 cm, 5 - 10 cm and 10 - 20 cm depth were evaluated and soil samples were collected soon after the soybean emergence in the first year and after the cover crops desiccation and before maize sowing in the second year. Dry matter production and nutrients extraction by cover crops and maize productivity grown in succession were also evaluated. Variations in soil acidity, P, K, Ca and Mg availability, CEC and organic matter content were small or nonexistent. Sorghum bicolor grown in autumn-winter resulted in higher dry matter production than Pennisetum glaucum, Mucuna aterrima, Canavalia ensiformis and spontaneous vegetation. There was no effect of cover crops in maize yield.
Orientadora: Mara Cristina Pessôa da Cruz
Coorientador: Manoel Evaristo Ferreira
Banca: Itamar Andrioli
Banca: Satatier Buzetti
Mestre

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Conselho Nacional de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico - CNPq
Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES
The conversion of native vegetation áreas into pastures may contribute to the emission of greenhouse effect gases, due to the soil use change. The use of silvopastoral systems, which integrate legume tree species and grasses, may be a viable option to mitigate these emissions and increase soil carbon and nitrogen stocks. This work aimed to evaluate carbon stock (EC) and microbial activity in silvopastoral systems in the Forest Zone of Pernambuco. To this end, soil samplings were done at the dry and rainy seasons in an experiment evaluating signal grass (Brachiaria decumbens Stapf) with sabiá (Mimosa caesalpiniifolia Benth) or gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Steud.). Soil samples were taken up to 100 cm depth at 0, ,4 and 8 m from the legume strip, and up to 20 cm at 0,2,4,6 e 8 m from the legume strip for biological analysis. Total organic carbon (COT), total nitrogen (NT), soil organic matter chemical fractioning (fractions fulvic acid – AF; humic acid – AH and humin –HUM), soil density, microbial biomass carbon (Cmic), soil basal respiration (RBS) were determined and metabolic quocient (qCO2) and carbon stock (EC) were calculated. There was no significant difference (p>0.10) for Cmic for the distances from the legume strip at the rainy season. Significant difference was found for RBS at the rainy season for legume strip distances and soil depth layers. There was no significant difference (p >0.10) for Cmic between legume strips distances for the rainy season, while there was significant differences (p<0.10) for RBS between legume strip distances and soil layers. At the dry season, the highest qCO2 was at the 0-10 cm layer, 2 m away from the legum strip. There was significant difference between systems and legume strip distances for COT at the dry season, with the highest contents at 8 and 4 m for gliricidia and sabiá, respectively. EC had significant differences (p<0.10) between soil layers at the dry season, with higher values at the 20-60 layers, while at the rainy season there was only a significant difference at the 0-10 layer at 8 m from the legume strips, when sabiá values were 33% higher than gliricidia ones. Significant difference (p<0.10) was found for NT between layers on both seasons, with higher values going from the upper to the deeper layers. In general the AF fraction was the smallest, with higher values for all three fractions (AF, AH and HUM) for sabiá. Biological activity, as represented by Cmic and RBS, confirmed the silvopastoral systems capability of maintaining soil microbiota. The the higher C content in more stable fractions in sabiá indicates it to be more efficient in carbon sequestration. The silvopastoral system had EC similar to other cropping systems, but it might increase in a longer term of evaluation.
A conversão de áreas de vegetação nativa em pastagem pode contribuir para a emissão de gases de efeito estufa, ocasionada pela mudança no uso do solo. O uso de sistemas silvipastoris, que integram espécies arbóreas leguminosas e gramíneas, pode ser uma opção viável para mitigar essas emissões com aumento do estoque de carbono e nitrogênio no solo. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o estoque de carbono (EC) e atividade microbiana em sistemas silvipastoris na Zona da Mata de Pernambuco. Para isso foi realizada coleta de solo nos períodos seco e chuvoso em experimento avaliando consórcios de braquiária (Brachiaria decumbens Stapf.) com sabiá (Mimosa caesalpiniifolia Benth) ou com gliricídia (Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Steud.). Foram retiradas amostras de solo até 100 cm de profundidade aos 0,4,e 8 m de distância da faixa da leguminosa, e até os 20 cm em pontos com 0,2,4,6 e 8 m de distância da faixa da leguminosa para análises biológicas. Foram determinados carbono orgânico total (COT), nitrogênio total (NT), fracionamento químico da matéria orgânica do solo (fração ácido fúlvico-AF; ácido húmico-AH e humina-HUM), densidade do solo, carbono da biomassa microbiana (Cmic), respiração basal do solo (RBS) e calculado o quociente metabólico (qCO2) e estoque de carbono (EC). Não houve diferença significativa (p>0,10) para Cmic entre distâncias da faixa da leguminosa no período chuvoso. A RBS apresentou diferença significativa (p<0,10) no período chuvoso entre distâncias da faixa da leguminosa e camadas. No período seco, o maior valor de quociente metabólico (qCO2) ocorreu na camada de 0-10 cm, na distância 2. Houve diferença significativa entre sistemas e distâncias da faixa da leguminosa para COT no período seco, com os maiores teores nas distâncias 8 e 4, para gliricídia e sabiá, respectivamente. Houve diferença significativa (p<0,10) entre camadas no EC no período seco, com maior estoque nas camadas de 20-60 cm. No período chuvoso observou-se maior uniformidade do EC, com diferença significativa apenas na camada de 0-10 cm na posição 8 com sabiá 33% superior. Para NT ocorreu diferença significativa (p<0,10) entre camadas com teores que variaram nos dois períodos avaliados, com maior concentração nas camadas superficiais reduzindo em profundidade. Para o fracionamento químico, no geral, a fração AF apresentou os menores teores de C, com os maiores teores das três frações (AF, AH e HUM) no consórcio com sabiá. A atividade biológica refletida pelos valores de Cmic e RBS comprovou a capacidade dos sistemas silvipastoris em sustentar a microbiota do solo. Os maiores teores de C nas frações mais estáveis no consórcio com sabiá o destacou com maior eficiência de reter carbono. O sistema silvipastoril apresentou EC semelhante a outros sistemas de manejo, mas não se descarta possibilidade de maior retenção de C em uma avaliação do experimento a longo prazo.

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Among the parameters used by the scientific community, the biomass evaluation is the most precise one in terms of presenting the biological components of the soil. Intending to evaluate the potential of the legumes Campo Grande Stylo, calopo (Calopogonium mucunoides) and pigeon pea regarding the recovery of damaged soil, sixteen plats of these legumes were planted in latin square form for later microbial biomass analysis. The microbial biomass was analyzed according to the Vance et. (1987) principles. No significant differences were found compared to the fallow, although circumstances like the lack of precipitation, the time of the year and the production of dry matter affected the microbial biomass development. The studied legumes that presented the largest microbial biomass production were the Campo Grande Stylo and the calopo (Calopogonium mucunoides), showing a trend of improvement compared to the fallow. Despite the stress factors, the microbial biomass showed a trend of improvement on the plats where the legumes were seeded, and it can be considered a prior parameter of agrisystem changes.
Dentre os parâmetros utilizados pela comunidade científica, o que apresenta maior sensibilidade na caracterização dos componentes biológicos do solo é a avaliação de biomassa microbiana (BMS). Com o objetivo de avaliar o potencial das leguminosas Calopogônio, Estilosantes e feijão Guandu na recuperação dos solos degradados e na melhoria da biomassa microbiana, foi realizado o plantio das leguminosas e posterior análise da biomassa microbiana em dezesseis canteiros distribuídos em um quadrado latino. A biomassa microbiana foi analisada conforme os princípios de Vance et. (1987). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas em relação ao pousio, porém fatores como a baixa pluviosidade, época de plantio e produção de massa seca influenciaram o desenvolvimento da BMS. As leguminosas estudadas que apresentaram maior produção de BMS foram o Estilosantes e o Calopogônio, evidenciando uma tendência de aumento em relação ao pousio. Mesmo com fatores de estresse, a biomassa microbiana nos canteiros com as leguminosas evidenciou um potencial de aumento, podendo ser considerado um parâmetro que antecede alterações no agrosistema.

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Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES
The study was on the effect of agroecosystems in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L). The objective was to evaluate phytotechnical aspects and soil quality in agroecosystems using legumes in monoculture and intercropped with millet system and conventional tillage in the common bean. The legumes studied were beans pork (Canavalia ensiformes), Crotalaria (Crotalaria juncea), Mucuna (Stizolobium dierrigianum) , Guandu (Cajanus cajan) in monoculture and intercropped with millet (Penicetum glaucum) under conventional and no-tillage system. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design. Dry biomass, nutrient content, nutrient accumulation of plants for roofs, growth (height and stem diameter) of plants, yield of common bean and the physical , chemical and biological soil properties were evaluated . It was found that all legumes in monoculture and intercropped with millet provide high accumulation of nutrients in the biomass, contributing to the improvement of soil fertility and crop productivity in the common bean agroecosystem , the production of dry biomass cover crops were exceeding 9.000 Mg ha-1 , stood out the pigeon pea and bean Mucuna with the largest production fitomasssa and levels of N, P , Ca , Mg and Zn. The cropping system -tillage and legume consortium with millet allow better growth of the common bean. The yield of common bean was high for all systems, the highlight was the bean pork with the highest yield. The soil physical properties were not affected by agroecological systems. Chemical and biological soil properties were altered with high accumulations of nutrients supplied to the ground in agroecosystems. The system was used as a cover crop showed the lowest metabolic coefficient, and the system more efficient.
Estudou-se o efeito de sistemas agroecológicos no feijoeiro comum (Phaseolus vulgaris L). O objetivo foi avaliar aspectos fitotécnicos e qualidade do solo em sistemas agroecológicos utilizando leguminosas em monocultivo e consorciadas com milheto em sistema convencional e plantio direto no feijoeiro comum. As leguminosas estudadas foram: feijão de porco (Canavalia ensiformes), crotalária (Crotalaria juncea), mucuna rajada (Stizolobium dierrigianum), guandu (Cajanus cajan) em monocultivo e consorciadas com milheto (Penicetum glaucum), em sistema convencional e plantio direto. O experimento foi conduzido com delineamento de blocos ao acaso. Foram avaliadas a fitomassa seca, teor de nutrientes, acúmulo de nutrientes das plantas de cobertura, crescimento (altura e diâmetro do caule) das plantas, rendimento do feijoeiro comum e os atributos físicos, químicos e biológicos do solo. Verificou-se que todas as leguminosas em monocultivo e consorciadas com milheto forneceram elevados acúmulos de nutrientes na fitomassa, contribuindo para a melhoria da fertilidade do solo e produtividade da cultura do feijoeiro comum no sistema agroecológico. A produção de fitomassa seca das plantas de cobertura foram superiores a 9,000 Mg ha-1, destacou-se o feijão guandu e a mucuna com as maiores produções de fitomasssa e teores de N, P, Ca, Mg e Zn. O sistema de cultivo semeadura direta e o consórcio das leguminosas com milheto possibilitaram melhor crescimento do feijoeiro comum. O rendimento do feijoeiro comum foi alto para todos os sistemas, destacou-se o feijão de porco com o maior rendimento. Os atributos físicos do solo não foram alterados pelos sistemas agroecológicos. Os atributos químicos e biológicos do solo foram alterados com elevados acúmulos de nutrientes fornecidos ao solo nos sistemas agroecológicos. O sistema onde foi utilizado o feijão de porco como planta de cobertura mostrou o menor coeficiente metabólico, sendo mais eficiente este sistema.

Crabgrass is a warm-season annual species that has the potential to provide high-quality summer forage for ruminants in the transition zone between subtropical and temperate regions of the United States. Growing annual lespedeza in association with crabgrass may be beneficial due to nitrogen transfer from the legume to the grass. The objectives of the research reported in this thesis were to (1) determine the effects of pH on establishment and growth of crabgrass; and (2) evaluate the effects of lespedeza seeding rate and N fertilization treatment on the yield, botanical composition, and nutritive value of crabgrass-lespedeza mixtures. A greenhouse study was conducted using three soil pH levels of 4.8, 5.5, and 6.3. Crabgrass germination and root and shoot yields were not affected by soil pH values. A field study was conducted to evaluate the influence of six lespedeza seeding rates (0-28 kg ha-1) and two N fertilization treatments (140 kg total N ha-1 or zero N) on crabgrass-annual lespedeza mixtures. In most cases, increasing lespedeza seeding rate increased lespedeza in the sward. However, lespedeza rate had limited effect on yield and nutritive value of the mixture. Nitrogen fertilization increased crabgrass in the sward and total yield by as much as 46%. Responses of nutritive value parameters to N fertilization were variable and appeared linked to weather factors. In vitro true digestibilities ranged from 750 to 875 g kg-1, and were largely unaffected by N fertilization and seeding rate The results of these studies indicate that crabgrass could provide moderate amounts of highly digestible forage while growing on acidic soils commonly found in the southeastern United States. Annual lespedeza may be grown in association with crabgrass, but limited improvement in yield and nutritive value were found for this practice.
Master of Science

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Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior
Green manuring is the practice of incorporating undecomposed plant tissue to the soil, to maintain or increase soil fertility. One of the most used plants as green manure is Crotalaria juncea, with presents advantages compared to other legumes. This work was conducted with the objective of evaluating the effect of organic manures and plant densities on Crotalaria juncea growth, accumulation of nutrients in its shoots and in the soil, and also on rice yield. The trial was developed in an experimental area of Semiarid Federal Rural University, in Mossoró, RN, Brazil. Experimental design was a randomized blocks in a 4 x 3 factorial scheme, with four replications. Factors studied were organic manures (chicken manure, earthworm humus and control) and plant spacing (10 x 10, 14 x 14, 17x 17 and 20 x 20 cm). Determinations realized were: fresh and dry mass of shoot and root of crotalaria, shoot contents of N, P and K and soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC), PST and contents of C, N, P, K, Na, Ca and Mg after decomposition of crotalaria plants, and also rice production components (panicle number in 10 plants, grain weight in 10 plants; empty grain weight in 10 plants; mass of 100 grains). Data were submitted to variance analysis. The results related to the spacing were subjected to linear regression and data on the type of fertilization were subjected to Duncan test at 5% probability. Plant density of crotalaria provided a positive linear effect on shoot dry and green mass and per hectare accumulated amounts of N, P and K of shoot, and also a negative linear effect on root dry mass. Nutrient content per plant were not influenced by plant density and manure type, while manure type influenced only the P content per plant. Chicken manure provided the higher values of shoot fresh (24,55 t ha-1), and dry mass (5,89 t ha-1) and root dry mass (20,23 g) of crotalaria and the higher values of accumulated amounts per hectare of N(122,68 kg ha-1), P (33,38 kg ha-1) and K (78,00 kg ha-1) on shoot. Plant density of crotalaria did not influenced rice production components, while manure type only influenced mass of empty grains.
A adubação verde é a prática de se incorporar, ao solo, o tecido vegetal não decomposto, visando manter ou aumentar a fertilidade do solo. Uma das plantas mais utilizadas como adubo verde é a Crotalaria juncea, apresentando vantagens frente às outras leguminosas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de adubos orgânicos e densidades de semeadura sobre o desenvolvimento da Crotalaria juncea, acúmulo de nutrientes na parte aérea e no solo e produtividade de arroz. O experimento foi desenvolvido em área experimental da Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, Mossoró, RN. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos ao acaso em esquema fatorial do tipo 4 x 3, com quatro repetições. Os fatores estudados foram três tipos de adubação (esterco de galinhas, húmus de minhoca e testemunha) e quatro espaçamentos entre plantas (10 x 10, 14 x 14, 17x 17 e 20 x 20 cm). Foram realizadas as seguintes determinações: massa verde e seca e teores de N, P e K da parte aérea da crotalaria; massa seca da raiz, pH, condutividade elétrica (CE), PST e teores de C, N, P, K, Na, Ca e Mg do solo após a decomposição da crotalária; além de componentes de produção do arroz ( número de panículas em 10 plantas; massa de grãos chochos e massa de grãos cheios em 10 plantas; massa de 100 grãos cheios) . Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância. Os resultados relacionados ao espaçamento foram submetidos à regressão linear e os dados relativos ao tipo de adubação foram submetidos ao teste de Duncan a 5% de probabilidade. A densidade de semeadura da Crotalaria juncea proporcionou efeito linear positivo sobre sua MVPA, MSPA e quantidades acumuladas por hectare de N, P e K na parte aérea, além de efeito linear negativo sobre a MSR. Os teores de nutrientes por planta não foram influenciados pelos espaçamentos e os tipos de adubo utilizados influenciaram apenas o teor de fósforo por planta. A utilização do esterco de galinha proporcionou os maiores valores de MVPA (24,55 t ha-1), MSPA (5,89 t ha-1) e MSR (20,23 g) da crotalária e os maiores valores das quantidades acumuladas por hectare de N (122,68 kg ha-1), P (33,38 kg ha-1) e K (78,00 kg ha-1) na parte aérea. A densidade de plantas da crotalária não influenciou os componentes de produção do arroz, enquanto que os tipos de adubo influenciaram apenas a massa de grãos chochos.

La séquestration du C dans les sols réduit les effets du changement climatique, et améliore la qualité du sol. L'introduction des prairies temporaires dans le cycle des cultures pourrait améliorer les matières organiques du sol (SOM). L'objectif de la thèse était d'évaluer l'impact des modes de gestion de prairies temporaires sur la quantité, la composition et les processus de stabilisation des SOM et les émissions de gaz à effet de serre (GHG).Mes résultats montrent un arrière effet de la gestion des prairies temporaires sur les SOM après 3 ans de culture. La durée des prairies influence la quantité et la composition de la biomasse microbienne ainsi que la nature des SOM. La fertilisation en N de la prairie est nécessaire à la séquestration du C dans le sol sans augmenter les émissions de GHG.Pour remplacer la fertilisation en N minérale, des légumineuses peuvent être utilisées. En conséquence, je me suis intéressée à l'effet de la luzerne sur les formes de C, de N et de P dans les sols sous mélanges luzerne-graminées. Mes résultats indiquent une absence d'augmentation du stock de C dans les sols sous mélanges comparés aux monocultures de graminées fertilisées, malgré une plus forte productivité de la luzerne. Les biomarqueurs moléculaires indiquent que l'introduction de la luzerne en prairie influence la dégradation des SOM plus que leur stabilisation. De plus, la luzerne influence fortement les formes du P dans les sols sous mélanges.Ainsi, lors de l'introduction de prairie dans les cycles de culture, il est important d'optimiser les modes de gestion afin de faire le bon compromis entre le stockage du C, les émissions de GHG et l'utilisation d'engrais
Soil C sequestration reduces the effects of climate change, improves soil quality and food security. Soil organic matter (SOM) could be enhanced by introduction of ley grassland into the cropping cycle. The objective of this PhD thesis was to evaluate the effect of management practices of ley grassland on the quantity, composition and stabilization processes of SOM and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). My data showed legacy effects of duration and fertilization of the temporary grassland phase on SOM after 3 years of cropping. The duration of grassland phase influenced the quantity and composition of the microbial biomass as well as the nature of SOM. N fertilization during the grassland phase is necessary for soil C sequestration in soil without increasing GHG emissions.To replace mineral N fertilization, legumes may be used in forage production systems. Consequently, I was interested in the effect of introduction of lucerne on C, N and P forms in soils under lucerne-grass mixtures. My results indicate similar soil C stocks under mixtures and grass monocultures, despite the high productivity of lucerne. Molecular biomarkers indicated that the introduction of lucerne in grassland influenced the degradation of the SOM more than its stabilization. Moreover, the presence of lucerne influenced P forms in soils under mixtures.In conclusion, the introduction of ley grasslands into cropping cycles requires careful evaluation of the management practices in order to optimize C storage, GHG emissions and N fertilizer use

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The difficulty of implementing no tillage in the Northeast region of Brazil occurs due to low rainfall, which limits the plant growth and high rates of decomposition. In the Brejo Paraibano microregion, beyond this aspect, another problem is related to changes in the use of soil, without considering their potentialities and limitations, which provided serious damage to conservation. In order to select cover crops for no tillage and understand the soil degradation due to changes in use, was implanted two experiments completely randomized. The experiment of cultural residues was conducted in the Chã of Jardim farm, of Center of Agrarian Sciences of UFPB, and the treatments consisted of three residues of grass species (Brachiaria decumbens), corn (Zea mays) and sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and three legumes species: pigeon pea (Canavalia ensiformis), guandu (Cajanus cajan) and leucena (Leucaena leucocephala). The residues were placed in litter bags and placed in the experimental field under the litter, in the presence and absence of nitrogen. The experiment about use of soil was conduced in three systems: native secondary forest, cultivation of sabiá (Mimosa caesalpiniaefolia) and pasture (Brachiaria decumbens). In each area, soil samples were collected at four depths for physical and chemical analisys, fractionation of organic matter and root density. The physical analisys consisted of the separation of aggregates size, grain size, density and total porosity of soil. The chemical ones consisted of determining the pH and concentration of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, aluminum and C. The organic matter was fractionated into fulvic acid fraction (FAF), humic acid fraction (HAF) and humin (HUM). They were quantified deposition and accumulation of litter and its rate of decomposition in areas of woodland and thrush. In the pasture, one evaluated the production of forage. In the case of crop residues, it was observed that the rate of decomposition of the grass is slower than that of legumes, however, this rate is equivalent in the last months of the evaluated year. The grasses showed no differences, but the guandu showed slower rate of decomposition amongst the legumes. Nitrogen fertilization did not affect the waste decomposition rate. In the case of the changes in the use of the soil, the amount of clay, DMPAs, DMPAu and the relationship DMPAu / DMPAs and porosity showed higher values in the area under forest. The soil density was lower in the area under forest. The development of roots was higher in areas under forest and pasture. The waste disposal was greater in the area under sabiá and the N, P and K were higher in these residues, which shows the sabiá capacity in nutrient cycling. The accumulation of litter in the soil was higher in the area under forest. The decomposition rate of the waste was 48% in area under sabiá and 40% in that one under forest. The percentage of C, H + Al, Al, and CTC potential and aluminum saturation (m) are higher in the soil in the area under forest. The soil pH, the base saturation (V) and the concentrations of Na and K are similar in areas under pasture and under sabiá and larger than that under forest. The percentages of Ca, Mg and available P and SB and effective CTC did not differ among the studied areas. The C of the soil is best preserved in the area under forest in function of higher levels in HAF and HUM fractions and the lowest ratio EA / HUM. In turn, the replacement from the grass for sabiá begins to recover the levels of C lost in the area under pasture, with intermediate fraction values of HAF and HUM, demonstrating the sabiá ability to recover soil quality.
A dificuldade de implantar a semeadura direta na região Nordeste do Brasil ocorre devido às baixas precipitações pluviais, que limita o crescimento vegetal e as elevadas taxas de decomposição de resíduos. Na microrregião do Brejo Paraibano, além desse aspecto, outra preocupação é a mudança no uso do solo, sem considerar as suas potencialidades e limitações, o que tem proporcionado graves prejuízos à sua conservação. Com objetivo de selecionar plantas de cobertura para a semeadura direta e entender a degradação do solo devido às mudanças de uso, foram implantados dois experimentos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. O experimento de resíduos culturais foi conduzido na Fazenda experimental Chã do Jardim, do Centro de Ciências Agrárias da UFPB, e os tratamentos constaram de três resíduos de gramíneas: braquiária (Brachiaria decumbens), milho (Zea mays) e sorgo (Sorghum bicolor) e três de leguminosas: feijão de porco (Canavalia ensiformis), guandu (Cajanus cajan) e leucena (Leucaena leucocephala). Os resíduos foram colocados em sacolas náilon e dispostas no campo sob a serrapilheira, na presença e ausência de adubação nitrogenada. O experimento sobre uso do solo foi conduzido em três sistemas: mata nativa secundária, cultivo de sabiá (Mimosa caesalpiniaefolia) e pastagem de braquiária (Brachiaria decumbens). Em cada área foram coletadas amostras de solo, em quatro profundidades para análises físicas, químicas, fracionamento da matéria orgânica e densidade de raízes. As análises físicas constaram de separação de tamanhos de agregados, granulometria, densidade e porosidade total do solo. As químicas constaram da determinação do pH e dos teores de cálcio, magnésio, fósforo, potássio, sódio, alumínio e C. A matéria orgânica foi fracionada nas frações ácido fúlvico (FAF), ácido húmico (FAH) e humina (HUM). Nas áreas de mata e sabiá foram quantificados a deposição e acúmulo de serrapilheira, bem como sua taxa de decomposição. Na pastagem, avaliou-se a produção de forragem. Quanto aos resíduos de culturas, observou-se que a taxa de decomposição das gramíneas é mais lenta que a das leguminosas, porém essa taxa se equivale nos últimos meses de avaliação. As gramíneas não apresentaram diferenças entre si, mas o guandu apresentou taxa de decomposição mais lenta entre as leguminosas. A adubação nitrogenada não afetou a taxa de decomposição dos resíduos. Quanto às mudanças no uso do solo, a quantidade de argila, o DMPAs, DMPAu e a relação DMPAu/DMPAs e a porosidade apresentaram maiores valores na área sob mata. A densidade do solo foi menor na área sob mata. O desenvolvimento de raízes foi maior nas áreas sob mata e pasto. A deposição de resíduos foi maior na área sob sabiá e os teores de N, P e K nesses resíduos foram maiores, o que mostra a capacidade do sabiá em ciclar nutrientes. O acúmulo de serrapilheira no solo foi maior na área sob mata. A taxa de decomposição dos resíduos foi de 48% na área sob sabiá e 40% na sob mata. Os teores de C, H+Al, Al, e a CTC potencial e a saturação por alumínio (m) no solo são maiores na área sob mata. O pH do solo, a saturação de bases (V) e os teores de Na e K foram semelhantes nas áreas sob sabiá e sob pasto e maiores que na sob mata. Os teores de Ca, Mg e P disponível e a SB e a CTC efetiva não diferem entre as áreas estudadas. O C do solo está mais preservado na área sob mata em função dos maiores teores nas frações FAH e HUM e da menor relação EA/HUM. Por sua vez, a substituição do pasto por sabiá começa a recuperar os teores de C perdidos na área sob pasto, com valores intermediários das frações FAH e HUM, demonstrando a capacidade do sabiá em recuperar a qualidade do solo.