搜索结果：Brazilian journal of biology = Revista brasleira de biologia

Phosphoramidates are a class of chemical compounds still widely used for insect pest control; therefore, in this group, there is an underlying need to investigate novel insecticide compounds. This study evaluated the insecticidal efficacy and physiological selectivity of three novel aminoaryl-phosphoramidate compounds under controlled laboratory conditions. The biological models were larvae of the phytophagous Spodoptera frugiperda and adult workers of the predatory Polybia occidentalis. The S. frugiperda larvae used for the bioassays were reared on an artificial diet, while P. occidentalis adults were collected from field colonies. The acute larvicidal efficacy of the novel phosphoramidate compounds against S. frugiperda larvae was lower than that of the control treatment (a commercial product of the same chemical class); however, these same compounds exhibited significant acute toxicity to workers of P. occidentalis. Following topical application of phosphoramidate compounds, insects were provided an ad libitum feeding diet, and toxicity associated with potential delayed neurotoxic effects was assessed under these conditions. The LD50 (lethal dose killing 50% of the tested population) of the three aminoaryl-phosphoramidate compounds ranged from 28.10 to 99.94 μg mg-1 for S. frugiperda larvae and from 54.86 to 68.71 μg mg-1 for adult P. occidentalis adults. The synthesized compound exhibits more pronounced acute and chronic effects on the non-target insect (P. occidentalis) and a less pronounced rapid lethal effect on S. frugiperda compared to commercial insecticides, indicating undesirable properties. However, its notable delayed neurotoxic effect to S. frugiperda, which is understudied for compounds of this nature, could be further explored as an additional tool for pest control.

Aroeira-do-sertão is a native species of the Brazilian semiarid region, with pharmacological properties and potential for reforestation of degraded areas, making the use of healthy seeds essential for seedling production. In the absence of registered chemical products for the treatment of native forest seeds, the development of effective alternative methods for pathogen control, such as the use of essential oils, becomes indispensable. The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of essential oils in reducing pathogen incidence and improving the physiological quality of aroeira seeds. The experiment was conducted at the Phytopathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Paraíba. Seeds of aroeira obtained from the Seed Network of the São Francisco Integration Project were used, and their moisture content was determined. Seeds were treated with essential oils at a concentration of 1%. Treatments consisted of T1: Control; T2: Captan; T3: Cinnamon leaf; T4: Ginger; T5: Palmarosa; T6: Thyme; T7: Sicilian lemon; T8: Peppermint; T9: Oregano; and T10: Tangerine. The seeds were subjected to a health test, using ten replications of ten seeds, and to germination and emergence tests, with four replications of 25 seeds. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design. Cinnamon leaf and thyme essential oils reduced the incidence of the fungal genera Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Alternaria, Ulocladium, Pestalotia, and Curvularia in M. urundeuva seeds and did not affect seed physiological quality.

To determine the milk productivity of Kazakh horses of the Adai region in variants of selection and technological indicators of milk for the production of cumus in the conditions of the Mangyshlak peninsula of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The object of the study was the Kazakh horse of the Adai intra-breed type at "Taushyk" LLP (Tupkaragan District, Mangystau Region). Mares with a more pronounced milk production were selected and analyzed . they have investigated the quality of milk for further processing. A characteristic feature of the dynamics of milk sugar content during lactation has been identified. The highest lactose concentration was observed in the 4th month of lactation, followed by a decline. In the first two months of lactation, no significant changes in lactose content were detected. The milk produced by mares of the Kazakh Aday breed is characterized by a high content of fat and lactose and therefore meets the technological requirements for koumiss production. According to the research results, it was found that the homogeneous selection of parental pairs cup-shaped + cup-shaped ensures the yield of offspring of daughters cup-shaped 70% and rounded 30%. With the improving heterogeneous selection of rounded + cup-shaped, the yield of mares with cup-shaped udders was 60% and rounded 40%.

Leprosy remains a persistent public health challenge in Brazil, particularly in the Legal Amazon, where its distribution reflects social inequities, environmental vulnerabilities, and heterogeneous access to health services. This study analyzed the sociodemographic profile, temporal trends, and regional heterogeneity of leprosy in the state of Tocantins between 2014 and 2024. A total of 15,734 confirmed cases were obtained from the Brazilian national surveillance system. Annual detection rates and temporal trends were assessed using log-linear regression models to estimate the Annual Percent Change, and regional heterogeneity was examined across the eight health regions of the state. The disease predominantly affected men, adults aged 30-59 years, individuals with low educational attainment, and persons self-identified as of mixed race. Despite year-to-year fluctuations, including a marked decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, detection rates remained consistently high throughout the study period. Substantial heterogeneity was observed across health regions, with persistently high detection rates in Capim Dourado, Amor Perfeito, and Cantão, while statistically significant decreasing trends were identified in Bico do Papagaio, Médio Norte Araguaia, and Ilha do Bananal. The continuous detection of cases among individuals under 15 years of age and the increase in relapse proportions in recent years indicate ongoing transmission and operational challenges in early diagnosis and surveillance. These findings highlight the need for regionally tailored strategies, strengthened contact tracing, and prioritization of high-risk territories to advance leprosy control in the Brazilian Amazon.

The study of milk productivity of local breeds of cattle (Alatau, Aulieata, Red Steppe) revealed an increase in milk yield with increasing lactation period, with a stable average daily milk yield. Monitoring showed that the productivity of cows increases with the age of the animals. Evaluation of milk quality (fat and protein content, somatic cells) confirmed the stability of characteristics and satisfactory udder condition. Studies were conducted in the farm partnership "Khilnichenko and K" of Zhetisu region for the Alatau breed, in the farms "Yesbol" and "Zhantai" of Aktobe region for the Red Steppe breed, and in the farms "Umrali Ata" and "Uzbekova" of Turkestan region for the Aulieata breed. The obtained data showed that the milk yield of cows of the Alatau breed increases with age and lactation, reaching 5769.6 kg on the third and older lactations, with an average milk yield on herd 5537.8 kg. Fat and protein content in the milk of the Alatau breed remained consistently high (3.88% and 3.29%, respectively). The average milk yield of the Aulieata breed was 4006.6-4296.6 kg, with a fat content of 3.88-3.91% and protein content of 3.22-3.25%. The Red Steppe breed showed lower milk yields (2985.3-3201.4 kg), but stable milk quality parameters (fat - 3.61-3.84%, protein - 3.10%). The level of somatic cells in all breeds was within normal limits, indicating satisfactory udder health. Analysis of spermograms of bulls-producers of domestic (Alatau, Aulieata, Red Steppe) and foreign (Angler, Schwyz, Zebu) selection confirmed high indicators of sperm viability (more than 64%) and sperm survival (more than 40 hours), which indicates their high reproductive efficiency for breeding programs of return crossbreeding. The study confirms the strategic importance of conservation and rational use of genetic resources of local breeds for sustainable livestock breeding and adaptation to changing conditions, offering science-based approaches to breeding and management of the gene pool of cattle in Kazakhstan.

Anthropogenic activities have intensified soil degradation and disrupted essential ecological processes, underscoring the need for effective ecological restoration strategies. Terminalia argentea, a pioneer species of the Cerrado, has demonstrated potential for recovering degraded areas and facilitating arthropod recolonization. Arthropods are sensitive to environmental changes and are thus recognized as bioindicators. This study aimed to assess the recovery of a degraded area by evaluating insect and spider ecological indices, their interactions, and the plant biomass of T. argentea saplings over a two-year field establishment period. Saplings with greater biomass (e.g., more leaves/branch) supported a higher abundance and richness of tending ants. During the first year after planting, the leaves of T. argentea saplings exhibited higher numbers of chewing insects (e.g., Cerotoma sp.) and their ecological indices (e.g., diversity), spiders (e.g., Oxyopidae) and their species richness, bees (e.g., Trigona spinipes) and their abundance, and tending ants (e.g., Brachymyrmex sp.) and their diversity and richness of species. In contrast, saplings in the second year after planting hosted higher numbers of sap-sucking insects (e.g., Aphis spiraecola), their tending ant Camponotus sp., and their Dolichopodidae predators. Saplings with more sap-sucking insects (e.g., Phenacoccus sp.) also had more tending ants (e.g., Camponotus sp.). However, an increase in tending ants (e.g., Ectatomma sp.) was associated with a reduction in predators (e.g., Photinus sp.) and chewing insects (e.g., Lamprosoma sp.). The presence of spiders (e.g., Araneidae) was correlated with higher numbers of chewing insects (e.g., Cephalocoema sp.), while Mantis religiosa and Polybia sp. were more common on saplings with higher defoliation percentages, and Syrphus sp. was associated with Bemisia sp.. These results indicate that trophic interactions, mediated by both bottom-up and top-down mechanisms, structure the arthropod community on T. argentea, promoting the coexistence of functional groups and enhancing ecological indices. Future studies involving predator exclusion and leaf chemical analyses will be essential to deepen this understanding.

Delonix regia is an ornamental tree species that is widely used in Brazilian landscaping. It is propagated by seeds, the quality of which can be compromised by the presence of pathogenic fungi. The use of biological agents, such as Trichoderma asperellum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, in seed treatment has proven to be a promising alternative to the use of synthetic fungicides, promoting phytosanitary and physiological benefits to seeds. Therefore, the objective of this work was to determine the antagonistic effects of the agents T. asperellum and S. cerevisiae on the sanitary and physiological quality of D. regia seeds. The experimental design used was completely randomized, with treatments distributed in a 2 × 5 + 1 factorial scheme, with two biocontrol agents (T. asperellum and S. cerevisiae), five concentrations (0.0; 0.5; 1.0; 1.5 and 2.0 mL) + one additional treatment (seeds treated with fungicide). Seed health, germination, emergence and initial seedling development were evaluated. The fungi associated with the seeds were from the genera Fusarium sp., Cladosporium sp., Chaetomium sp., Aspergillus sp., Lasiodiplodia sp. and Rhizoctonia sp. The use of T. asperellum is effective in controlling Fusarium sp. in D. regia seeds, although its use may compromise physiological aspects of the seeds, such as germination and vigor. On the other hand, the application of S. cerevisiae was promising for reducing the incidence of microorganisms and, simultaneously, promoting improvements in the physiological quality of seeds. These findings indicate the potential of using biological agents, especially S. cerevisiae, as a sustainable strategy for the treatment of forest seeds.

The purpose of this study was to study the effect of different levels of crude protein (CP) in the diet of Kazakh white-headed bull calves on their growth, development, feed efficiency and reproductive qualities using the digital Intergado system. The study involved 21 animals aged 7-8 months, divided into three groups: control (CP 11%), experimental 1 (CP 13%) and experimental 2 (CP 14.5%). The results showed that in the experimental groups, the consumption of metabolic energy increased significantly (up to 2.61&#xb1;0.01 Mcal/lb) and crude protein (up to 0.92&#xb1;0.03 kg; p = 0.006), as well as protein decomposed in the rumen (RDP up to 0.70&#xb1;0.02 kg). This led to an improvement in the nitrogen balance, which became positive in experimental group 2 (0.01&#xb1;0.01 kg d-1; p < 0.001). The most significant effect was observed on the productivity of animals. The experimental groups showed significantly higher average daily gains: 1.20&#xb1;0.08 kg (CP 13%) and 1.26&#xb1;0.07 kg (CP 14.5%) versus 0.87&#xb1;0.14 kg in the control (p < 0.05). The absolute weight gain was 53.00&#xb1;2.98 kg (experimental 2) and 50.43&#xb1;3.36 kg (experimental 1), significantly exceeding the control group (36.57&#xb1;5.79 kg; p < 0.05). The feeding efficiency improved significantly: the feed conversion rate in the group of CP 14.5% was 5.17 versus 8.54 in the control. Meat quality indicators included an increase in the area of the muscular eye in Experimental group 1 (39.81&#xb1;1.59 cm2; p < 0.05). It is important to note that the studied protein levels did not negatively affect the indicators of reproductive function, where the scrotum circumference ranged from 28.14&#xb1;1.32 cm in the control to 30.14&#xb1;0.80 cm in the experimental group 1, and the ejaculate score ranged from 7.66&#xb1;0.51 points in the control to 7.79&#xb1;0.61 points in the experimental group 1, without statistically significant There were no significant differences (p = 0.388 and p = 0.693, respectively). However, an increase in methane emissions was recorded in the experimental groups (up to 14.75&#xb1;0.01 g/kg DM; p < 0.001). Thus, the level of 13-14.5% crude protein in the diet provides a significant improvement in the growth, digestibility and bioavailability of nutrients without impairing reproductive functions, and can be recommended for intensive fattening of bull calves using digital feeding control technologies.

Stingless bees (Meliponini) are essential pollinators widely distributed in tropical regions, playing a crucial role in ecosystem maintenance. In Brazil, they are found throughout the national territory. DNA barcoding has emerged as an effective tool for species identification and genetic diversity assessment, especially in areas affected by anthropogenic activities. This study aimed to identify and characterize local stingless bee species at the molecular level. A total of 32 specimens were collected from three communities in Tut&#xf3;ia, Maranh&#xe3;o (MA). Samples were processed at the LabWick/UEMA, with DNA extracted using the phenol-chloroform method and amplification of the COI region via PCR. Sequence analyses were performed using dedicated software. The mitochondrial COI marker enabled the identification of eight stingless bee species distributed across seven distinct genera. The DNA fragments analyzed averaged 450 bp in length, with a predominance of adenine (A) and thymine (T). Sequence similarity with the NCBI database ranged from 96.33% to 98.93%, with Melipona fuliginosa showing the highest match. A total of 25 haplotypes were identified, 10 belonging to the Melipona genus and 15 to other genera. Phylogenetic analysis revealed four groupings within Melipona and six among the remaining genera. The geographic isolation of the sampled communities may have limited species distribution across the study area. Despite the effectiveness of COI, the absence of a clear barcode gap and the scarcity of reference data in databases such as GenBank limit identification accuracy for certain genera. This study underscores the importance of DNA barcoding in contributing genetic data to repositories like NCBI and enhancing the known species diversity in the Len&#xe7;&#xf3;is Maranhenses microregion.

Sustainability issues and environmental impacts of synthetic dyes have encouraged increased exploration of environmentally friendly natural dye sources. This study aims to identify the potential of local plants from the highlands of West Sumatra as a source of natural dyes, and to analyze the effect of mordant types on color variation and fastness in cotton fabrics. Ten local plant species were used as sources of natural pigments from leaves and bark. Three types of mordants-alum (KAl(SO4)2&#x2022;12H2O), calcium carbonate (CaCO3), and tunjung (FeSO4&#x2022;7H2O)-were applied to produce color variations. Fastness tests were conducted using three types of washing agents (Lerak Extract, Soklin Liquid, and Soklin Bleach) and analyzed quantitatively with a spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 625 nm. The results showed that the use of mordant significantly affected the intensity and color fastness. Tunjung tends to produce darker colors and has the best resistance for guava leaves (Psidium guajava), while alum is more effective for ambacang (Mangifera foetida) skin. Some materials such as pomegranate peel and guava peel show high resistance without the use of mordant due to their strong natural tannin content. Natural detergent Sari Lerak is proven to be the safest for maintaining color stability compared to commercial chemical detergents. These findings confirm that the highlands of West Sumatra have a potential diversity of flora as a source of sustainable natural dyes. This research provides a scientific basis for the development of environmentally friendly ecoprint technology based on local wisdom and supports the transition towards a sustainable textile industry in Indonesia.

The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), a member of the family Arecaceae, is a dioecious plant in which male and female flowers occur on separate individuals. Sex determination in date palms is typically possible only at the flowering stage, which occurs at reproductive maturity between four and five years. Consequently, sex cannot be determined at the early seedling stage. This study aimed to determine the sex of date palm seedlings through phenotypic characterization and molecular analysis of the SRY gene, validated using ISSR markers. A total of 10 seedlings from each of two cultivars-KL.1 and Barhee-were used. In vivo propagation method enabled phenotypic characterization based on radicle structure (spiraled or non-spiraled) and leaf primordium morphology (curved or straight). Molecular determination of sex was conducted using SRY gene-specific primers (SRY-date F-R) and ISSR markers (IS_A02 and IS_A71). Phenotypic characterization of KL.1 resulted in the identification of seven male seedlings (K1, K3, K4, K5, K12, K14, K15) and three female seedlings (K2, K6, K9). For Barhee, phenotypic analysis indicated seven male seedlings (B1, B2, B5, B8, B11, B12, B15) and three female seedlings (B4, B6, B10). Molecular analysis of KL.1 validated the phenotypic results, with identical sex indications. In Barhee, molecular analysis identified five male and five female seedlings, showing discrepancies with the phenotypic results for two seedlings (B12 and B15). Despite these inconsistencies, Chi-square and Cramer's V tests revealed that the p-values for KL.1 (0.012) and Barhee (0.048) indicated strong and statistically significant associations between phenotypic and molecular sex determination.

Several studies have demonstrated the potential of essential oils as natural antimicrobial agents. However, few publications focus on combinations of essential oils and optimizing the concentration to reduce the minimum inhibitory concentration. The present study aimed to investigate the combined antifungal activity of three essential oils extracted from Moroccan Origanum compactum, Thymus leptobotrys and Laurus nobilis and to predict the optimal combination using the mixture design approach coupled with the microdilution test against the phytopathogenic fungal species Alternaria alternata. The individual antifungal activity of essential oils demonstrated that Origanum compactum essential oil is the most effective (MIC=0.065% (v/v)). Through the optimization of essential oils formulations, a synergistic effect was identified, enabling the modeling and validation of the data and the establishment of a predictive profile. The optimal mixture was determined to be a blend of 40% Oregano, 46% Thyme, and 14% Laurel. To identify effective biofungicides, we performed in-silico molecular docking analysis targeting the vital enzyme, AA7 oxidoreductase, from the fungus Alternaria alternata, which regulates the metabolism of pectin degradation products, using some of the main natural compounds found in studied essential oils. Virtual screening revealed that the compounds exhibited favorable binding energy with the target protein. Analysis of the SwissADME server indicated that the metabolites possess fungicidal properties, making them effective and environmentally and biologically safe fungicides. These results are important for developing biological control methods to protect olive cultivation against Alternaria alternata leaf diseases.

Rice is a summer crop of great importance in Brazil and is subject to abiotic cold stress at sowing. With the use of high vigor seeds, it is possible for seedlings to have a capacity to recover from this type of stress, tolerating the stress and ensuring initial establishment, uniformity and consequently greater productivity. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the recovery capacity of rice seedlings from seeds with contrasting vigor, after periods of cold stress. The study was carried out at the Seed Analysis Laboratory of the State University of Santa Catarina. The batches used were from the cultivar SCS122 Miura, from the 2018/2019 harvest and physiological characterization was carried out. Then, two batches were selected (low and high vigor) that were subjected to two, three, four and five days of cold at 10 &#xb0;C followed by periods of post-stress recovery (exit and five days) at 25 &#xb0;C. Control was maintained in the germinator at a constant 25 &#xb0;C. After each period, normal and abnormal seedlings and dead seeds, shoot and root length and seedling dry mass were evaluated. A completely randomized design was used with four replications under a three-factorial scheme. It was observed that when subjected to two days of stress, the batch with greater vigor showed recovery capacity. The lower vigor batch had its performance drastically reduced after stress. It is concluded that the performance of rice seedlings under cold stress is favored by the initial vigor of the seed.

Mugil curema is an estuarine and coastal fish species widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. It is an important resource for fisheries in Maranh&#xe3;o, among the most exploited and commercialized species. Given its relevance, studies on its reproductive dynamics are essential for effective stock management. This study aimed to analyze the reproductive aspects of M. curema in an estuarine area of the Northeast region of Brazil. Specimens were collected monthly from January to December 2021 in the estuary of the Paci&#xea;ncia River, Maranh&#xe3;o, and morphometric data were analyzed to determine maturation stages, reproductive indices, and the size at first maturation. A total of 942 samples of M. curema were analyzed (827 female and 115 male). Females were more abundant (7.19F:1M), with a significantly larger mean size (t-test, p<0.05). The mean total length and mean total weight were 20.44 (&#xb1; 3.38 cm) and 82.29 g (&#xb1; 32.20 g), respectively. The weight-length relationship revealed distinct growth patterns: females exhibited positive allometry, whereas males exhibited negative allometry. A higher proportion of juveniles was recorded, indicating that the area functions as a nursery ground. Based on the gonadosomatic index (GSI), peak reproductive activity occurred in May and July; however, females with hydrated oocytes were also observed in other months. A correlation was observed between precipitation and reproductive rates. Histological analysis indicated total spawning, with synchronous development of two oocyte groups. The estimated length at first sexual maturity for both sexes was 19.04 cm. The reproductive aspects of M. curema appear closely linked to environmental conditions and seasonal cycles, highlighting the need for targeted management strategies to ensure the sustainability and conservation of this key fishery resource.

Microplastic (MP) pollution has emerged as a defining environmental challenge of the 21st century, threatening ecosystems, food security, and human health at an unprecedented scale. Conventional remediation methods-such as filtration, coagulation, and advanced oxidation-remain inefficient, energy-intensive, and incapable of addressing nanoscale fragments or preventing secondary contamination. This review provides a comprehensive and forward-looking synthesis ofnanoparticle-assisted bioremediation, an emerging paradigm that integrates microbial enzymatic degradation with engineered and green-synthesized nanomaterials to achieve sustainable plastic depolymerization. We critically examine how magnetic nanoparticles enable rapid adsorption and recovery, how photocatalytic metal oxides (TiO2, ZnO, Fe2O3, CeO2) and plasmonic hybrids generate reactive oxygen species to oxidatively cleave polymer chains, and how nano-bio hybrid systems stabilize enzymes, enhance substrate accessibility, and accelerate mineralization into CO2, H2O, and biomass. Special emphasis is placed on green-synthesized nanoparticles derived from plants and microbes, which offer enhanced environmental compatibility and catalytic efficiency. The review also evaluates the mechanistic underpinnings, kinetic parameters, and techno-economic feasibility of these systems, identifying critical challenges related to nanoparticle aggregation, enzyme instability, and ecological safety. By uniting insights from nanotechnology, microbiology, and environmental engineering, this work delineates a strategic roadmap toward biodegradable, multifunctional nanomaterials and biofilm-enhanced hybrid reactors capable of large-scale deployment. Nano-bioremediation represents not merely an incremental advance but a transformative step toward a circular, low-carbon bioeconomy, offering a realistic and scalable pathway to mitigate global microplastic pollution and restore environmental integrity.

Semi-arid regions require the use of varieties adapted to local edaphoclimatic conditions. This study aimed to characterize landraces (Verde Ligeiro, Sempre Verde, Cariri, Azul, and Corujinha) and commercial cultivars (BRS-Paje&#xfa;, Novaera, and Guariba) of cowpea and evaluate the resistance to pests and diseases of the genotypes in irrigated (Lagoa Seca, PB) and non-irrigated (Esperan&#xe7;a, PB) production fields. The genotypes were cultivated in an agroecological system, and morpho-agronomic analyses were performed according to the International Biodiversity descriptors of the species. Molecular characterization was performed by using ISSR markers. Pests and diseases were evaluated during the crop cycle. The genotypes had differences in qualitative characteristics (growth habit, flower color, seed color, seed shape, and mature pod color) and in quantitative characteristics (days to flowering, number of pods, pod length, number of seeds per pod, and yield). In irrigated field, the Corujinha landrace had the highest yield, and Cariri had the lowest. In non-irrigated field, the Sempre Verde landrace was the most productive, and the BRS-Novaera cultivar was the least. The 11 ISSR primers used for molecular characterization of the genotypes generated 123 bands, of which 65% were polymorphic. Intrapopulation genetic diversity was low, but cluster analysis separated the populations into two groups. Differences in the incidence of powdery mildew and cercospora leaf spot were found among the genotypes, as well as differences in pod bug infestation. The BRS-Novaera genotype was the most susceptible to diseases and pests in both irrigated and non-irrigated fields. It is concluded that the most productive genotypes with the lowest intensity of diseases and pests in irrigated fields were the Corujinha, Sempre Verde, and Azul landraces, and the BRS-Paje&#xfa; and BRS-Guariba commercial cultivars; and under rainfed conditions, the most adapted cultivar was the Sempre Verde landrace.

Halophytes exhibit a broad geographical distribution, and their phytochemical profiling highlights their nutritional relevance, particularly in the context of global food insecurity. Salicornia species, in particular, have been identified as a source of functional nutrients, including dietary fiber, proteins, and essential macronutrients. In this study, Salicornia perennans specimens collected from two distinct regions of Kazakhstan were analyzed using atomic spectrometry, revealing significant inter-populational variation in macronutrient composition among wild-grown samples. Furthermore, the impact of artificially induced chloride salinity at concentrations of 0 mM, 100 mM, 200 mM, and 300 mM was investigated with respect to macronutrient and nutrient accumulation. Data analysis indicated that 300 mM salinity promoted the accumulation of elemental nutrients within plant tissues, despite a concomitant reduction in fresh biomass by up to 13% (p>0.01). Protein content was also found to be salinity-dependent, with sample #1 exhibiting a peak value of 11.03 mg&#xb7;g-1 fresh weight at the highest salinity level tested. These findings underscore intraspecific variability in nutrient accumulation patterns within Salicornia perennans, reflecting its adaptive plasticity to diverse environmental conditions. The results further support the potential of wild halophytic species as valuable components in food systems, owing to their high nutritional density and resilience under saline stress, making them promising candidates for the development of novel functional food products.

Jordan is a highly vulnerable country to the negative impacts of climate change. It's suffering from unprecedented waves of drought and high temperatures, which threaten mostly rainfed agriculture. Farmers in Madaba Province depend on rainfed agriculture and are, unfortunately extremely, distressed from climate change impacts on their crops. Limited studies have been conducted about climate change impacts on agricultural crops and methods for adaptation from the point of view of Madaba farmers. The aims of this study were to find out the extent of knowledge that Madaba farmers possess about the impacts of climate change on agriculture and what adaptation practices they use, in addition to the challenges they face in this aspect and the solutions that might be helpful to enrich their knowledge to encounter climate change impacts. In this study, 353 farmers from Madaba responded to a questionnaire to determine their trends towards climate change and the adaptation practices they apply to encounter such a problem. The results showed that farmers' knowledge about climate change and the agricultural practices for adaptation was moderate (M= 2.32, M= 2.15, respectively) and came primarily from other farmers' experiences. The results also showed that farmers applied adaptation practices at a moderate level (M= 2.64), while surface tillage and crop rotation were the most frequently used methods to mitigate climate change. Furthermore, data indicated that the lack of government support for farmers was the most significant challenge to applying the adaptation measures. The study also demonstrated that increasing government support for farmers and providing them with training courses were among the most acceptable solutions for addressing the risks of climate change. Finally, the study showed that age and education level played a significant role in the extent to which farmers adopted adaptation methods to mitigate climate change consequences. It is hoped that this study will guide the government and decision-makers to become aware of the most important challenges facing Madaba farmers due to climate change and to exert greater effort in improving and following up on the plans they have prepared to confront these threats to agriculture in a more effective and practical way.

Soil fertilization with dehydrated sewage sludge accelerates the recovery process of degraded areas, improving nutrient concentration, and favors the development of webs with pioneer plants such as Acacia auriculiformis and insects. This study aimed to evaluate the sap-sucking hemipteran insects, tending ants, and Sternorrhyncha predators in A. auriculiformis saplings fertilized with or without dehydrated sewage sludge, over two years in a degraded area. Acacia auriculiformis saplings fertilized showed higher numbers of sap-sucking Hemiptera Aleyrodidae, Aethalion reticulatum, and Erythrogonia sexguttata, the tending ant Brachymyrmex sp., and the Sternorrhyncha predators Cycloneda sanguinea and Syrphus sp.. Acacia auriculiformis saplings with higher numbers of branches/sapling showed a positive effect on the sap-sucking Hemiptera Achillidae and A. reticulatum and the tending ant Brachymyrmex sp.. The highest numbers of Cephalotes sp., Brachymyrmex sp., and Pheidole sp. were positively associated with those of Aleyrodidae, A. reticulatum, and Membracidae, respectively, in A. auriculiformis saplings. Saplings with high numbers of Cephalotes sp. had low numbers of C. sanguinea. The use of A. auriculiformis, fertilized with dehydrated sewage sludge, is promising in recovering degraded areas due to the increase in sap-sucking Hemiptera, tending ants, and Sternorrhyncha predators. In addition, these ants associated with sap-sucking Hemiptera reduce Sternorrhyncha predators.