Open Access Published since December 15, 2015

Open Agriculture

ISSN: 2391-9531

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Veterinary Medicine
Agro-ecology
Soil science
Plant science
Horticulture
Forestry, Wood technology
Animal science
Entomology
Aquaculture
Hydrology, Irrigation
Food science
Nutrition
Agricultural economics
Bio-based economy
Agricultural engineering
Landscape management
Postharvest technology
Climate-based agriculture
Amelioration
Tropical agriculture
Microbiology
Agroforestry
Sustainable development
Biomass, Biofuel
Agronomy
Agricultural Extension Education
Rural development
Agricultural information and communication
Capacity Building
Mycology

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Scope

Agro-ecology
Soil science
Plant science
Horticulture
Forestry, Wood technology
Animal science
Entomology
Aquaculture
Hydrology, Irrigation
Food science
Nutrition
Agricultural economics
Bio-based economy
Agricultural engineering
Landscape management
Postharvest technology
Climate-based agriculture
Amelioration
Tropical agriculture
Microbiology
Agroforestry
Sustainable development
Biomass, Biofuel
Agronomy
Agricultural Extension Education
Rural development
Agricultural information and communication
Capacity Building
Mycology

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Volume 8 Issue 1

January 2023

Regular Articles

Open Access January 2, 2023

The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on business risks and potato commercial model

Pujiharto Pujiharto, Sri Wahyuni

Article number: 20220158

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Abstract

This study was aimed (1) to analyze the productivity, cost, and income of potato farming; (2) to analyze the risk of potato farming; and (3) to analyze the potato trade system at the level before and during COVID-19 pandemic. This study used a descriptive-quantitative research type. It was conducted in Banjarnegara Regency, Jawa Tengah Province, Indonesia. The data were collected through surveys, observations, and Focus Group Discussions. The unit of analysis is the farmers who plant potatoes. Data analysis was done descriptively. The results showed that there is no difference between the two marketing channels before and during pandemic. There are two channels of the trading system, namely farmer–collector–traders–wholesaler–exporter partners and farmer–collector–traders–wholesalers–retailers. However, the trading model maximizes the Agribusiness Sub Terminal (AST) as a potato trading agent that can provide direct price information, attract traders, and facilitate transactions and trading contacts. The trading model allows potato trading agents to provide direct price information, attract traders, and facilitate transactions and trading contacts. The implication of this study is to anticipate productivity risk and potato farming income risk through the AST function. This study contributes to the condition of farming before and during COVID-19 pandemic by comparing differences in productivity, costs, income, productivity risk, and income risk as well as the potato grading model.

Open Access January 4, 2023

Effects of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)–Mucuna pruriens intercropping pattern on the agronomic performances of potato and the soil physicochemical properties of the western highlands of Cameroon

Franck Junior Ngandjui Tchapga, Asafor Henry Chotangui, Maryline Temgoua Fouegag, Tankou Christopher Mubeteneh

Article number: 20220142

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Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at the teaching and research farm of the Faculty of Agronomy and Agricultural Sciences of the University of Dschang to investigate the effects of potato– Mucuna intercropping pattern on the agronomic performances of potatoes and the soil physicochemical properties in western highlands of Cameroon. The experiment design was a randomized complete block with three replications. The treatments included a pure potato stand (T1), pure Mucuna stand (T2), 1:1 (T3), 1:2 (T4), and 2:1 (T5) potato– Mucuna intercropping patterns. The results revealed that potato– Mucuna intercropping patterns had no significant effect ( P > 0.05) on potato growth variables, soil physical properties, and the relative crowding coefficient. The highest potato yield (24,913 kg ha −1 ) and potato equivalent yield (81,513 kg ha −1 ) were obtained from the 1:1 intercropping pattern. The highest total LER (2.17) and the lowest (1.38) were obtained with 1:1 and 1:2 intercropping patterns, respectively. Area time equivalent ratio values were greater than 1 in 1:1 (1.46) and 2:1 (1.29) intercropping patterns. Mucuna proved to be the most aggressive and competitive species according to Ap and competitive ratio values except for the 1:2 intercropping pattern with K indicating a yield advantage in all intercropping patterns. 1:1 and 2:1 intercropping patterns gave the best C/N (13.94) and cation exchange capacity (36.12 meq 100 g −1 ), respectively. Late blight incidence was highest (16.88%) on potato sole crop stand and lowest (8.05%) on 1:2 intercropping pattern. Therefore, based on the findings of this experiment, 1:1 or 1:2 intercropping pattern could be recommended in potato– Mucuna intercropping system.

Open Access January 7, 2023

Machine learning-based prediction of total phenolic and flavonoid in horticultural products

Kusumiyati Kusumiyati, Yonathan Asikin

Article number: 20220163

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to predict the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) in several horticultural commodities using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) combined with machine learning. Although models are typically developed for a single product, expanding the coverage of the model can improve efficiency. In this study, 700 samples were used, including varieties of shallot, cayenne pepper, and red chili. The results showed that the TPC model developed yielded R 2 cal, root mean squares error in the calibration set, R 2 pred, root mean squares error in prediction set, and ratio of performance to deviation values of 0.79, 123.33, 0.78, 124.20, and 2.13, respectively. Meanwhile, the TFC model produced values of 0.71, 44.52, 0.72, 42.10, and 1.87, respectively. The wavelengths 912, 939, and 942 nm are closely related to phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The accuracy of the model in this study produced satisfactory results. Therefore, the application of NIRS and machine learning to horticultural products has a high potential of replacing conventional laboratory analysis TPC and TFC.

Open Access January 7, 2023

Revamping agricultural sector and its implications on output and employment generation: Evidence from Nigeria

Abiola John Asaleye, Henry Inegbedion, Adedoyin Isola Lawal, Oluwayemisi Kadijat Adeleke, Uche Abamba Osakede, Elizabeth Bolatito Ogunwole

Article number: 20220140

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Abstract

The Nigerian government has implemented a comprehensive spectrum of policies and programmes to diversify the economy and encourage broad-based growth through investment in the agricultural sector. However, the steady increase in the poverty and unemployment rate has raised controversial issues among scholars. In light of this, the study investigates the impact of selected macroeconomic variables on Nigeria’s agricultural performance using two models for output and employment. The Error Correction Model (ECM) approach was used to establish the short and long-run behaviours. In the first model, output in the agricultural sector was used as the independent variable, while in the second model, employment in the agricultural sector was used as the independent variable. The study’s findings showed that output positively relates to credit to the agricultural sector and exchange rate. However, it was depicted that output and employment in the agricultural sector in both the short-run and the long-run are not statistically significant. The implication drawn from the study is that credit granted to the agricultural sector can foster aggregate output in the sector, which will promote long-term employment. The study suggests considerable investment in the agricultural sector and the need to strengthen institutions for proper management of resources to ensure effective evaluation of funds disbursed for improving the agricultural sector, among others.

Open Access January 23, 2023

Does product certification matter? A review of mechanism to influence customer loyalty in the poultry feed industry

Kesturi Pandanwangi, Ahmad Romadhoni Surya Putra, Fransiskus Trisakti Haryadi, Andriyani Astuti, Suci Paramitasari Syahlani

Article number: 20220160

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Abstract

Feed certification is released by authorized third parties as external cues indicating that products have met standard quality. However, farmers do not always take certification as the main consideration in product selection because of insufficient knowledge or they are skeptical about certification. This research aims to analyze the effect of feed certification, company image, opinion leader, perceived product quality, customer trust, and satisfaction to layer farmers’ customer loyalty. Respondents were selected by using purposive sampling with the criteria that respondents were layer farmers with experience for at least 1 year and customers of concentrate or ready-made feed. Data were collected by using questionnaire and analyzed with the partial least square. Results show that feed certification influenced perceived product quality with β = 0.127 and p ≤ 0.1; then, company image and opinion leader influenced perceived product quality with, β = 0.690 and β = 0.157 at p ≤ 0.05. Perceived product quality affected customer trust ( β = 0.699, p ≤ 0.01) and customer satisfaction ( β = 0.689, p ≤ 0.05). Then, customer trust and customer satisfaction positively influenced customer loyalty with β = 0.507, and β = 0.414 at p ≤ 0.01. Research findings indicated that feed certification was considered by layer farmers in feed purchasing behavior. However, company image was played as the most important factor among opinion leader and feed certification. These results implied that besides maintaining company image and the role of opinion leaders, feed mills and authorized institutions still urge to promote the importance of certification as product quality indicator.

Open Access January 27, 2023

Farmer regeneration and knowledge co-creation in the sustainability of coconut agribusiness in Gorontalo, Indonesia

Wawan K. Tolinggi, Darmawan Salman, Rahmadanih, Hari Iswoyo

Article number: 20220162

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Abstract

Farmer regeneration in agribusiness sustainability originates from the innovation of knowledge co-creation among farmer generations and interaction between stakeholders within and outside local contexts. The present work aims at exploring knowledge co-creation in the context of different orientations between young and old farmers. It also seeks to characterize the orientation of the two farmer groups from the aspect of agriculture, processing, and marketing of coconut through knowledge co-creation interaction to further their agricultural activities. All data in this grounded theory research came from in-depth interviews; the data were further examined using an open, axial, and selective coding method. The transcription of the field note was analyzed using an ATLAS.ti version 9, a program for analyzing qualitative data. The sample of the study was 13 of young farmers (25 to 45 years old) and 17 of old farmers (45 to 65 years old). The results revealed that the old farmers focused on revitalizing coconut trees for long-term purposes. The knowledge co-creation process among this farmer group (with other stakeholders) put an emphasis on copra and cooking oil production. Young farmers, however, focused on coconut tree integration with annual plants for short-term purposes, especially on the virgin coconut oil and innovative products from foreign technology adaptation. In conclusion, coconut business sustainability is the byproduct of knowledge co-creation and engagement between old and young farmers. This condition results in the survivability of coconut farmers. The novelty of this study lies in the classification of the orientation of the two coconut farmer groups in terms of agricultural, processing, and marketing aspects, which results in knowledge co-creation and its relation to the sustainability of coconut agriculture.

Open Access February 1, 2023

Lablab purpureus: Analysis of landraces cultivation and distribution, farming systems, and some climatic trends in production areas in Tanzania

Julius S. Missanga, Pavithravani B. Venkataramana, Patrick A. Ndakidemi

Article number: 20220156

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Abstract

Lablab is a multifunctional crop that is underutilized in Africa. This study was performed to assess Lablab landraces cultivation and distribution, farming systems, and some climatic trends in Lablab production areas in Tanzania. A socio-economic survey was engaged to locate the main production areas using Global Positioning System, while participatory research tools were used to assess farming systems, practices, and challenges perceived in Lablab production. Some weather data were collected to establish climatic trends in Lablab production areas. The study revealed a wide cultivation and distribution of Lablab landraces in five agro-ecological zones with some variations. These variations were influenced by market demand for Lablab in Kenya and its role in subsistence farming. Lablab was mainly produced for conservation agriculture and enhanced soil fertility (27.9%), marketing (22.1%), livestock feeding (21.5%), food during drought conditions (15.4%), traditional purposes (7.4%), regular consumption (3.8%), and other minor uses (1.8%) varied significantly across the zones ( χ 2 = 37.639, p = 0.038). The farming systems included intercropping (59.0%), mono-cropping (31.0%), home based gardening (5.0%), crop rotation (3.0%), and relaying cropping (2.0%) with no significant difference across the zones ( χ 2 = 15.049, p = 0.314). A wide range of farmers’ practices were noted in Lablab production zone-wise. Unavailability of improved varieties and poor market channels were the farmers’ key challenges in Lablab production. It was further noticed that Lablab was mainly produced in areas with dry conditions. Finally, it was suggested that effort should be enhanced to improve genetic resource conservation, value addition, and market channels to other countries while developing improved varieties in terms of high yielding and drought tolerance.

Open Access February 10, 2023

The effects of carrot (Daucus carota L.) waste juice on the performances of native chicken in North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Hasrianti Silondae, Derek Polakitan, Paulus C. Paat, Agustinus N. Kairupan, Payung Layuk, Meivie Lintang, Gabriel H. Joseph, August Polakitan, Olvie Grietjie Tandi, Jefny B. Markus Rawung, Janne H. W. Rembang, Herlina N. Salamba, Ibrahim Erik Malia, Joula O. M. Sondakh, Ronald T. P. Hutapea, Jantje G. Kindangen, Roosganda Elizabeth

Article number: 20220173

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Abstract

The abundance of agricultural products often causes environmental problems. The utilization of agricultural waste from carrots can reduce both the feed cost and environmental pollution and become a source of vitamin A for the health of the native chicken. The study aims to analyze carrot ( Daucus carota L.) waste juice on native chicken performance. It was conducted from April to July 2019 at Pandu experimental field in North Minahasa Regency. The practical method used was a completely randomized design with four replications. The experimental livestock used in the study was 80-day-old chickens of native chicken. The concentration of carrot juice during the study was as follows: 100% drinking water without carrot juice (W0), 80% water drinking + 20% carrot juice (W1), 60% drinking water + 40% carrot juice (W2), and 20% drinking water + 80% carrot juice (W3). Observed variables included feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and mortality rate. The results showed that carrot waste juice significantly impacted the body weight gain, feed conversion rate, and 0% mortality rate during the 8 weeks. The concentration of 20% drinking water + 80% carrot juice (W3) with the feed intake ratio of 1.608 g, body weight gain value of 775.63 ± 301 g, and the FCR of 2.1 ± 0.06. However, the consumption ratio did not differ among treatments. The addition of carrot waste juice, as much as 80%, in the drinking water of native chickens showed an increase in body weight compared to other treatments. In conclusion, the current study showed that treatment of carrot waste juice has a significant effect on body weight in 8 weeks of maintenance. Meanwhile, the feed intake ratio of carrot waste juice treatment has no real effect. There was no dead chicken (0%) in the present study. The carrot waste juice can be used in chicken drinks 40–80% by paying attention to the balance of energy content and feed proteins used to grow chickens.

Open Access February 17, 2023

Properties of potassium dihydrogen phosphate and its effects on plants and soil

Kristina Jančaitienė, Rasa Šlinkšienė, Renata Žvirdauskienė

Article number: 20220167

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Abstract

One of the challenges of the modern world is to improve human nutrition and to safely increase the yield of agricultural production using existing agricultural land. It is clear that sufficient agricultural efficiency cannot be achieved without fertilizers, but fertilizers must cause minimal damage to the soil. Microorganisms, such as spore-forming bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, algae, and protozoa play an important role in the soil and keep soil healthy. One of the soil substances involved in reactions that take place in plants is cellulose. This study investigated the effect of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (PDP), synthesized (via conversion between potassium chloride and ammonium dihydrophosphate) and granulated with the addition of microcrystalline cellulose (MC), on plants (winter wheat Toras, Lithuania) and soil microorganisms. The data of plants fertilized with pure KH 2 PO 4 , ones fertilized with PDP granulated with MC, and grown without fertilizers were compared in this study. Scanning electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry analysis were used to characterize the obtained product. One-way analysis of variance was used to evaluate the differences of the mean values between groups. In all cases, the significance level was p ≤ 0.05. The effect of pure KH 2 PO 4 on plant indicators was found to be lower than that of granular PDP with MC. The length of the leaves was 29.63 and 31.20 cm, green mass was 0.471 and 0.763 g, ash mass was 0.015 and 0.019 g, respectively. In addition, granular PDP with MC did not adversely affect the soil microorganisms because the number of any species of bacteria (Spore b., mineral nitrogen assimilating bacteria, cellulose degrading bacteria) did not decrease and a slight increase in the number of Actinomycetes (from 8.5 × 10 5 to 2.9 × 10 6 KSV/g) and molds (from 3.0 × 10 4 to 1.4 × 10 5 KSV/g) was observed. The granular PDP with MC that we developed and used have better physical properties, higher agrochemical efficiency and cause less harm to soil microorganisms compared to pure PDP.

Open Access February 20, 2023

Factors influencing the role and performance of independent agricultural extension workers in supporting agricultural extension

Kurnia Suci Indraningsih, A Ashari, S Syahyuti, Iwan Setiajie Anugrah, Sri Suharyono, S Saptana, Arief Iswariyadi, Adang Agustian, Tri Bastuti Purwantini, Mewa Ariani, Maesti Mardiharini

Article number: 20220164

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Abstract

Extension activities play a significant role in the success of agricultural development programs. Farmers still need agricultural extension workers (EWs) in the form of assistance, technical guidance, and management intensively and continuously. With the limited number of government EWs, the role of independent agricultural extension (IAE) workers has become crucial. In Indonesia, IAE worker has been recognized since 2006, although it has not been effective. This article aims to: (1) identify conditions and characteristics of IAE and (2) analyze the influencing factors on the role of IAE officers in supporting agricultural extension. Data collection was carried out with a structured questionnaire using Google Forms involving 161 respondents. The analysis method uses inferential statistics, namely the structural equation modeling. The results showed that the factors that directly affect the role of IAE workers are work motivation and quantity or workload. The number of IAE workers directly influences their performance. A favorable working environment is required to achieve the ideal role of IAE workers. In addition, improvement of work management, horizontal and vertical relations, and regulations posit IAE workers as an essential part of agricultural extension activities. It is necessary to have a regional regulation that legalizes the allocation of regional budgets as regular incentives to facilitate the activities of agricultural EWs.

Open Access February 23, 2023

The fate of probiotic species applied in intensive grow-out ponds in rearing water and intestinal tracts of white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei

Muhamad Amin, Yoga Pramujisunu, Mirni Lamid, Yudi Cahyoko, Olumide A. Odeyemi, Muhamad Ali, Awik P. D. Nurhayati

Article number: 20220152

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Abstract

Introduction Probiotics have been commonly practiced in commercial shrimp farms to increase pond production. However, these possibilities were based on the results of in vitro studies or laboratory in vivo trials. While studies on probiotic applications in commercial-scale farms are still rarely investigated, this study addresses the fate of probiotic species in ponds and the intestinal tract of white shrimps reared in an intensive aquaculture system. Material and methods Four commercial probiotic species ( Lactobacillus plantarum , Lactobacillus fermentum , Bacillus subtilis , and Pseudomonas putida ) were applied to the commercial shrimp ponds (@800 m 2 area of high-density polyethene ponds) in the morning at a dose of 5 ppm once every 2 days in the first month, and once a week from second month onward. Then, the presence of the probiotic species was traced by collecting the rearing water and shrimp’s intestines on day 47 of culture to monitor their composition and abundance using high-throughput sequencing. Results None of the commercial probiotic species could be detected from both rearing water and shrimp intestinal tracts. These results suggest that the probiotic species had low viability and adaptability in the rearing pond as well as the shrimp intestines when applied on commercial-scale farms. These facts may explain the high variation in the yield among shrimp ponds in spite of having similar treatments. Conclusion Probiotic strains had low viability and adaptability in commercial farms. Thus, methods and strategies in probiotic application to commercial-scale shrimp farms should be evaluated and further developed to increase probiotic efficacy.

Open Access February 23, 2023

Yield stability and agronomic performances of provitamin A maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes in South-East of DR Congo

Hugues Ilunga Tabu, Jean Pierre Kabongo Tshiabukole, Amand Mbuya Kankolongo, Antoine Kanyenga Lubobo, Luciens Nyembo Kimuni

Article number: 20220177

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Abstract

Genotype assessment across various environments is a basic condition for developing stable and superior genotypes for sustainable maize production in the South-East of the DR Congo. Therefore, this research’s objectives were to identify the performance of newly developed provitamin A maize genotypes in various environments, and to recommend high-performing and stable genotypes for broader adaptation. Eight provitamin A maize genotypes, including one commercial variety, were planted at three sites during two consecutive cropping seasons (2020/2021 and 2021/2022) forming six environments. All genotypes in six environments were planted in a randomized complete block design containing three replications. Two stability analysis approaches, GGE biplot and Eberhart and Russell method are widely used to identify high yielding and stable genotypes. The combined analysis of variance revealed that G and E as well as their interaction (GEI) have significantly affected the emergence rate, cob’s insertion height, days to anthesis and silking, cob length, cob grain weight and grain yield. Average grain yield varied from 8.30 t/ha for PVAH-7L to 9.41 t/ha for PVAH-1L. The Eberhart and Russell method and the CV identified PVAH-1L, PVAH-4L, PVAH-7L and PVAH-6L as the most stable genotypes, but could not reliably identify the high yielding genotypes. On the other hand, the GGE biplot reliably and graphically showed the stable and high-yielding genotypes (PVAH-1L > PVAH-6L) as well as the low-yielding genotypes (PVAH-7 > PVAH-4L). In additional, the GGE biplot showed that L’shi21 was the best test environment for selecting high performing and stable provitamin A maize genotype. The results of this study indicate that PVAH-1L and PVAH-6L are the stable, high-yielding provitamin A maize genotypes in the South-East of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and should be disseminated in this region.

Open Access February 24, 2023

Diallel analysis of length and shape of rice using Hayman and Griffing method

Agus Riyanto, Ponendi Hidayat, Y. Suprayogi, Totok Agung Dwi Haryanto

Article number: 20220169

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Abstract

Length and shape of rice are important physical qualities that determine public acceptance of a variety and determine the price. Improvement of length and shape of rice requires information on the genetic parameters of these traits. Diallel analysis is one of the methods usually used to estimate the genetic parameters of a trait. The purpose of this study was to estimate the genetic parameters of length and shape of rice using full diallel analysis. The plant material used was a full diallel cross-population of six rice genotypes, namely, Basmati Pakistan, Basmati Delta 9, Inpago Unsoed 1, Inpari 31, Koshihikari, and Tarabas. Thirty-six genotypes consisting of parents, F 1 and F 1reciprocal , were planted using a randomized block design with three replications. The data of rice grain length and length:width ratio were used for diallel analysis using the Hayman and Griffing method-1. The results showed additive and non-additive gene action influencing the length and shape of rice. The effect of the additive gene action was greater than the non-additive gene action, while both broad-sense heritability and narrow-sense heritability were high, revealed that the selection of these traits at the early generation using the pedigree selection method may be considered. Length and shape of rice were not affected by the female parent cytoplasm so that F 2 and F 2reciprocal populations may be combined into one population the next generation.

Open Access February 27, 2023

Physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of various stem bark extracts of Hopea beccariana Burck potential as natural preservatives of coconut sap

Dwi Raharjo, Muhammad Zukhrufuz Zaman, Danar Praseptiangga, Ahmad Yunus

Article number: 20220175

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Abstract

The bark of Hopea beccariana Burck is used to prevent damage to coconut sap. The purpose of this study was to determine the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of various extracts of the bark of H. beccariana Burck as potential natural preservatives for coconut sap. The bark was extracted by maceration method for 24 h assisted by stirring using ethanol, methanol, n -hexane, and water at 60°C as solvent. The type of solvent used for extraction had a significant effect on the yield, total phenolic, total flavonoid, antioxidant activity, toxicity, and diameter of the inhibition zone against Lactobacillus plantarum . The highest yield was found in methanol extract at 22.34%, the highest total phenolic content was found in ethanol extract of 53.39 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract, and the highest total flavonoid content was found in the aqueous extract at 60°C of 106.70 mg QE/g extract; all extracts have an IC 50 value of 80.28–91.80 ppm (very strong antioxidant) and ascorbic acid of 5.78 ppm. Methanol extract is classified as very toxic with an LC 50 of 38.21 ppm. The dominant compounds produced by gas chromatography–mass spectrometer were hexanedioic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester; ethyl oleate; 9-octadecenoic acid ( Z )-, ethyl ester; and hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester. The diameter of the inhibition zone for Saccharomyces cerevisiae was 13.50–14.72 mm, L. plantarum was 10.31–17.72 mm, and Leuconostoc mesenteroides was 13.25–18.06 mm. All extracts had minimum inhibitory concentration values of 2.5 mg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentration values of 2.5 mg/mL for n -hexane extract and 60°C water, while ethanol and methanol extracts had MBC values >50 mg/mL.

Open Access February 27, 2023

Correlation between descriptive and group type traits in the system of cow’s linear classification of Ukrainian Brown dairy breed

Leontiі Khmelnychyiі, Serhii Khmelnychyiі, Yevgeniya Samokhina

Article number: 20220180

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Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the phenotypic relationships between descriptive and group linear-type traits and the final score of first-born cows of the Ukrainian Brown dairy breed. The data from the linear estimation were collected on the population of 707 cows in six herds in the Sumy region of Ukraine from 2000 to 2018. It was found that the level of correlations between descriptive and group traits of the conformation, which characterize the dairy strength, frame, feet/legs, and udder, differed in significant variability by direction, strength, and reliability. The level of positive phenotypic correlations of descriptive traits with all group traits of the conformation type and the final score was height (0.19–0.34 and 0.34), chest width (0.06–0.29 and 0.17), body depth (0.28–0.53 and 0.48), angularity (0.35–0.77 and 0.62), rump width (0.29–0.36 and 0.46), rear legs posture (0.33–0.37 and 0.48), front udder attachment (0.23–0.39 and 0.41), height of rear udder attachment (0.17–0.27 and 0.29), and central ligament ( r = 0.16–0.39 and 0.36). The body condition score was related to group traits but in a negative value, with correlation coefficients ranging from −0.07 (legs) to −0.47 (dairy strength). The level of correlation between descriptive traits and the final score indicated that the selection based on the results of good development of these traits will contribute to the overall progress of cows in the direction of the desired dairy type.

Open Access March 7, 2023

Meta-analysis of the influence of the substitution of maize with cassava on performance indices of broiler chickens

Ifeanyi Princewill Ogbuewu, Christian Anayo Mbajiorgu

Article number: 20220166

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Abstract

There are growing numbers of publications on the effect of substitution of maize with cassava ( Manihot esculenta Crantz) on growth indices of broiler chickens with variable results. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore the influence of substitution of maize with dietary cassava on growth traits (i.e., average daily feed intake [ADFI], body weight gain [BWG] and feed conversion efficiency [FCE]) of broilers. Search done in PubMed, Google scholar and Scopus databases yielded 303 studies of which 27 were suitable for the analysis. Heterogeneity was explored by subgroup and meta-regression analyses using the following moderator variables: publication year, study continent, processing methods, cassava form, substitution level, broiler strain, number of birds per groups and treatment durations. Results show that dietary cassava reduced ADFI (mean difference [MD] = −5.19 g/day; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −8.60, −1.79; I 2 = 99%) and BWG (MD = −8.49 g/day; 95% CI: −9.65, −7.33; I 2 = 98%) and increased FCE (MD = 0.29; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.35; I 2 = 99%) in broilers compared to controls. Publication year, broiler strain, treatment durations and substitution level) influenced the outcomes of the study and explained some of the sources of heterogeneity. In conclusion, our results suggested that dietary cassava inclusion at 5% (minimum) and 62% (maximum) reduced growth performance in broiler chickens. However, more effective methods for increasing the nutrient value of cassava roots for broiler chicken feeding as well as the cassava inclusion levels for optimal productivity are required.

Open Access March 13, 2023

Bacteriocin-like inhibitory substance (BLIS) produced by Enterococcus faecium MA115 and its potential use as a seafood biopreservative

Muhamad Amin, Olumide A. Odeyemi, Fera R. Dewi, Christopher M. Burke

Article number: 20220170

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Abstract

Introduction: Listeria monocytogenes is an opportunistic foodborne pathogen that can cause death to infected humans. The bacterial pathogen was frequently associated with food-borne origins including seafood. Thus, the present study aimed at screening anti-listeria-producing lactic acid bacteria (AL-LAB) isolated from the intestinal tracts of wild gilt-head seabream ( Sparus aurata ). Materials and Methods: Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from the intestinal tracts of 15 wild gilt-head seabreams and screened for antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes . LAB isolated with the strongest anti-listerial activity was identified and further characterized for its anti-listerial compounds, followed by testing its protecting capacity on experimentally contaminated salmon fillets. Results: Three out of 52 LAB showed antagonistic activities against the foodborne pathogen. Of these 3, an isolate with the strongest inhibitory activity was obtained from strain MA115 (>400 AU). Based on its 16S rDNA sequence, strain MA115 had 99% similarity to Enterococcus faecium (Acc. Nb: MG461637.1). Further in vitro assays showed that the anti-listerial compound was very sensitive to proteinase K which suggested that it is a bacteriocin-like inhibitory substance (BLIS). In addition, the BLIS was resistant to a wide range of pH (2–10), and low (4 to −20°C) as well as high temperatures (30−121°C). In addition, the BLIS showed bactericidal activity on L. monocytogenes in artificially contaminated Salmon fillets stored at 0°C. Conclusion: The BLIS produced by Enterococcus faecium strain MA115 has the potential for application to improve food safety, although further studies are still required to specifically identify the BLIS, for biopreservation purposes.

Open Access March 13, 2023

Meta-analysis of the benefits of dietary Saccharomyces cerevisiae intervention on milk yield and component characteristics in lactating small ruminants

Ifeanyichukwu Princewill Ogbuewu, Christian Anayo Mbajiorgu

Article number: 20220178

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Abstract

Milk yield and components in small ruminants fed Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC) have been investigated, but results were not consistent among investigators. Hence, this trial aimed to explore the efficacy of SC supplementation in improving milk yield and components (i.e., milk proteins, fat, lactose, total solids and ash) in small ruminants. A search performed in Scopus, PubMed and Google Scholar databases yield 1,826 studies, of which 26 met the inclusion criteria. Random-effects model was used to aggregate milk production variables. Meta-regression analysis examined the effect of the following moderators: SC type, ruminant type (sheep or goat), diet type, breed, duration of supplementation and supplementation levels on outcome measures. Subgroup analysis explored the influence of the following moderators: SC type and ruminant type on outcomes measures. SC had positive moderate effect on milk yield (standardised mean difference [SMD] = 0.72; p < 0.001; heterogeneity [ I 2 ] = 73%) and small effect on milk proteins (SMD = 0.46; p = 0.004; I 2 = 83%), milk lactose (SMD = 0.17; p = 0.007; I 2 = 0%) and fat (SMD = 0.28; p = 0.016; I 2 = 70%). Subgroup analysis revealed that SC improved milk yield, lactose and proteins in lactating sheep and milk yield and fat in lactating goats. Our results show that moderators influenced the results of the meta-analysis and explained most of the sources of heterogeneity. In conclusion, SC should be included in small ruminant diets as it had small-to-moderate effects on milk yield and aspects of milk components.

Open Access March 15, 2023

Growth promotion potential of Bacillus spp. isolates on two tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) varieties in the West region of Cameroon

Idriss Djoko Kouam, Joseline Mabah, Pierre Germain Ntsoli, Laverdure Tchamani, Aoudou Yaouba, Bridget Katte, Dieudonné Bitom

Article number: 20220154

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Abstract

Inoculation of plants with plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) is an ecological approach to improve plants growth and yield. The objective of this study was to screen native PGPBs in tomato root rhizosphere and evaluate their performance in germination and growth of seedlings in the greenhouse in the western region of Cameroon. Isolates were selected based on their ability to solubilize phosphate, produce indole-3-acetic acid, and improve seed germination and seedling growth under laboratory conditions. Following this screening, eight bacteria were selected (S1, S4, S13, S14, S16, B9, B11, and B15) to assess their performance on seedling growth in greenhouse. Seeds of two tomato varieties (one improved, Raja, and the local one, Foolewouh) were used in this study. The experiment was performed in sterilized and non-sterilized soils. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA sequence showed that these bacteria belong to the genus Bacillus , including B. thuringiensis , B. cereus , B. pacificus , and B. aerius . The bacterial performance depended on the variety and conditions of soil treatment. Isolates improved seed germination (up to 31.93%) and seeding strength (up to 78.59%) in vitro . In greenhouse, inoculation with PGPB significantly increased stem height, root length, and weight of fresh and dry stems and roots. Raja variety was more sensitive to bacteria and performed better than the Foolewouh variety. Bacterial isolates on sterilized soil allowed to better seedling growth compared to non-sterilized soil. The study showed that B. thuringiensis (strain B9), B. pacificus (strain B11), and Bacillus sp. (strain B15) can be used as inoculant formulations to improve seedling growth of tomato plant.

Open Access March 15, 2023

Prioritizing IoT adoption strategies in millennial farming: An analytical network process approach

Kusnandar Kusnandar, Mohamad Harisudin, Erlyna Wida Riptanti, Isti Khomah, Nuning Setyowati, Rr. Aulia Qonita

Article number: 20220179

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Abstract

This research aimed to formulate priority strategies for adopting Internet of Things (IoT)-based innovation by millennial farmers in Central Java Province, Indonesia. This research uses quantitative methods. The two stages involved were exploring external factors using a political, economic, social, and technological approach and internal factors using the resource-based view approach including human resources, physical resources, and organizational resources. Interviews were conducted with 120 millennial farmers in ten regions of Central Java. This led to the formulation of alternative adoption strategies. Furthermore, the second stage was formulating strategic priorities using the analytical network process approach, involving purposively selected experts from policymakers in the government. According to the research, the most considered factors for IoT adoption strategies were relative advantage, social influence, and technology anxiety. In the relative advantage, the most prioritized sub-factor was business profit. The most prioritized technology anxiety sub-factor cluster was unfamiliar with using IoT. The most prioritized social influence sub-factor cluster was a personal relationship. The resulting strategic priorities were strengthening openness to change, IoT education to millennial farmers, optimizing the role of institutions, and socializing the benefits of IoT to millennial farmers. Openness to change motivates millennial farmers to achieve continuous and better innovation. Millennial farmers need to be prepared for the new experiences to come. Government support through education, intensive mentoring, and increasing the active role of farmer mentoring institutions accelerates the adoption of IoT by millennial farmers.

Open Access March 17, 2023

Soil fertility and pomelo yield influenced by soil conservation practices

Tran Van Dung, Le Van Dang, Ngo Phuong Ngoc, Ngo Ngoc Hung

Article number: 20220181

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Abstract

Exchangeable cations and soil nutrients leach out/lost in the raised bed soils system through irrigation water and rainwater. Cover crops or crop residue mulching are considered sustainable agricultural measures because they prevent soil degradation and compaction and increase the soil ecological diversity. However, the impact of these on soil quality in fruit orchards in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta is not well studied. The present work aimed to assess the effect of cover crops (grass, pinto peanut) and rice straw mulching on change in soil chemical properties and productivity of pomelo. The 3-year (2019–2021) field experiment was conducted at Phu Huu Commune, Chau Thanh District, Hau Giang Province, Vietnam. Four treatments, control (no-cover crop), grass cover crop, mulching with rice straw (MRS), and pinto peanut cover crop were used. Soil samples were collected from the depth of 0–20 and 20–40 cm for analyzing soil pH, total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), available phosphorus (AP), and soil organic matter (SOM). Results showed that MRS or cover crop by pinto peanut significantly decreased soil acidity in the topsoil layer. Soil fertility properties (TN, TP, AP, and SOM) at the depth 0–20 cm were greatly improved after the application of the mulched rice straw and cover crop by legume, thus improving pomelo yield. Further study is required to understand the effects of the cover crop with pinto peanut and rice straw mulching on the physical and biological properties of soil as well as nutrient uptake of pomelo orchards.

Review Article

Open Access March 3, 2023

Nutritional and chemical composition of black velvet tamarind (Dialium guineense Willd) and its influence on animal production: A review

Ifeanyichukwu Princewill Ogbuewu, Morwaledi Morategi Cornelia Modisaojang-Mojanaga, Baitsholetsi Gloria Mokolopi, Christian Anayo Mbajiorgu

Article number: 20220174

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Abstract

The world population is expected to double by 2050, creating a greater demand for animal protein sources. This calls for an increase in the supply of animal-derived foods in order to avoid food scarcity in the future. Non-ruminants, which would have been a panacea to this increased demand for animal-derived foods, have suffered from the rising costs of feed ingredient world-wide. The increase in the prices of conventional feedstuffs have attracted the attention of researchers on the potentials of lesser-known tropical medicinal plants like Dialium guineense Willd (black velvet tamarind) as a feed resource for non-ruminants. The increase in prices of conventional feedstuffs have attracted the attention of researchers on the potentials of lesser-known tropical medicinal plants. One such lesser-known tropical plant that can be used in chicken and livestock production is black velvet tamarind. The plant is found in many parts of the world. It belongs to the family Fabaceae, has high forage yield, resistant to drought and insects, and does not require annual cultivation. The whole seed is moderate in crude protein and fibre but high in carbohydrates. The leaf, on the other hand, is low in carbohydrate, moderate in crude protein, and high in ash. D. guineense stem bark and fruit are excellent source of essential oils, and rich source of dietary fibre, minerals, and vitamins for monogastrics. The plant is endowed with beneficial phytochemicals such as alkaloids, tannins, phenols, flavonoids which may serve as natural alternatives to in-feed antibiotics. D. guineense has beneficial pharmacological effects including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The purpose of this study was to review the body of knowledge on the nutritional and chemical composition of D. guineense and its impact in animal production.

Short Communication

Open Access March 21, 2023

Profiling of carbonyl compounds in fresh cabbage with chemometric analysis for the development of freshness assessment method

Daimon Syukri, Rini, Ario Betha Juanssilfero, Kohei Nakano

Article number: 20220171

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Abstract

The aim of this study was to screen the distribution of carbonyl compounds (CCs) in fresh cabbage as a sample model of multi-layered leafy vegetables for discovering the universal freshness marker of fresh produces. The distribution of CCs was observed in the three outer leaf layers of the cabbage. The profile of CCs in each leaf will guide the selection of which leaf is the appropriate part to be used to further discover a freshness marker of cabbage during storage treatment at the postharvest stage. The carbonyl compounds in each leaf were extracted using a mixture of chloroform and methanol (2:1). The extracted CCs from samples were derivatized with dansyl hydrazine. A high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer with multiplexed multiple reactions monitoring (MRM) was used for the comprehensive detection of carbonyl compounds. More than 400 peaks were observed in the MRM chromatogram from all leaves. The distribution of m / z values that represent CCs were analyzed employing the principle component analysis-discriminant analysis by relating it to the leaf position. The distribution of CC was different for each leaf where the leaves of the second and third layers were similar and significantly different from the leaves of the first layer. The accumulation of trans-2-hexenal was dominant in the first layer; therefore, the utilization of the first layer is not suitable as the part of the sample to discover the freshness marker of multi-layered leafy vegetables.

Special Issue of International Web Conference on Food Choice and Eating Motivation

Open Access February 14, 2023

Traditional agri-food products and sustainability – A fruitful relationship for the development of rural areas in Portugal

Maria Lúcia Pato, Ana Sofia Duque

Article number: 20220157

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Abstract

The protection of agri-food regional products is taking on growing importance in a market dominated by global companies and brands, often with no personality. Thirty years ago, the European Union (EU) agricultural product quality policy introduced the protection of geographical indications (GIs) for agricultural products and foodstuffs, with the aim of highlighting the quality of products resulting from a specific origin, therefore helping their communication and positioning in the market. This is important in countries with a considerable percentage of rural regions, as is the case of Portugal. Bearing this in mind, the purpose of this study is to see what are the drivers of the spatial distribution of traditional products (protected geographical indications, protected designations of origin, and traditional speciality guaranteed) in Portugal. For this purpose, the distribution of traditional products by regions and categories in Portugal will be presented. Also, Portugal’s position will be analysed and compared to the other EU countries, regarding the number of traditional products. Results show that Portugal is the country with the fourth biggest number of traditional certified products in EU territory. In the national territory, the Northern Region of Portugal has the biggest percentage of protected products, followed by Alentejo and the Centre Region of Portugal. Also, in Portugal, looking at the type of products, from a list of ten different categories of GIs, the ranking is dominated by (1) fresh meat, (2) meat products (cooked, salted, or smoked), and (3) cheese and milk-based products. If we consider that many of the aforementioned products are produced in less favoured regions, these results constitute an opportunity for their sustainable development. This benefits not only the producers, but also consumers who increasingly seek “authentic” and more natural products.

Special Issue of The 4th International Conference on Food Science and Engineering (ICFSE) 2022

Open Access March 14, 2023

Non-destructive evaluation of soluble solid content in fruits with various skin thicknesses using visible–shortwave near-infrared spectroscopy

Evia Zunita D. Pratiwi, Muhammad F. R. Pahlawan, Diah N. Rahmi, Hanim Z. Amanah, Rudiati E. Masithoh

Article number: 20220183

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Abstract

Visible–shortwave near-infrared spectroscopy has been used for internal quality measurement, but the optical penetration to the thickness of fruit skin becomes a challenge. This research aimed to develop partial least square regression model for the soluble solid content (SSC) measurement of fruits having various skin thicknesses, namely dragon fruit, tomato, guava, sapodilla, and banana. The spectra of each fruit were taken in a reflectance mode over a wavelength range of 400–1,000 nm. The best models obtained from banana and sapodilla yielded determination coefficient of prediction ( R 2 p ) of 0.88 and 0.90 and root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) 0.39 and 0.38°Brix, respectively. The banana and sapodilla SSC prediction models should be able to be used carefully in a variety of applications. Tomato and guava had moderately thinner skin but had the lower R 2 p of 0.64 and 0.76 and the RMSEP of 0.17 and 0.26°Brix, respectively. The poorest model was yielded by dragon fruit, which had the thickest skin with the R 2 p of 0.59 and the RMSEP of 0.40°Brix. The model for guava, although having low R 2 p , can still be utilized as a screening criterion and in some other ‘approximate’ applications. However, the SSC prediction model for tomatoes and dragon fruit is not recommended to use and requires additional research. In addition to the effect of skin thickness, other fruit morphological influences the result of this study. Internal structure and seed number influence the reflection optical geometry, which also affects the SSC prediction model.

Cite Score	2.2
Journal Citation Indicator	0.46
SCImago Journal Rank	0.305
Source Normalized Impact per Paper	0.811

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Editorial

Editors-in-Chief
Hans R. Herren, Millenium Institute, USA
Vijay Singh, Texas A and M University, USA

Managing Editor
Oskar Szczepaniak, De Gruyter
oskar.szczepaniak@degruyter.com

Editorial Advisory Board
Filiberto Altobelli, Council for Agricultural Research and Analysis of Agricultural Economics (CRA), Italy
Fred Asiegbu, University of Helsinki, Finland
Hassan Azaizeh, Institute of Applied Research, Galilee Society, Israel
Zohar Ben-Asher, EuCRF European Centre for Research & Financing, Israel
Furio Brighendi, University of Parma, Italy
Mladen Brnčić, University of Zagreb, Croatia
Katerina Demnerova, Institute of Chemical Technology, Czech Republic
Santa Olga Cacciola, University of Catania, Italy
Gary Dykes, Monash University, Australia
Hernâni Gerós, Universidade do Minho, Portugal
Martin Greimel, Austrian Ministry for Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management, Austria
Zoran Herceg, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Julie Ingram, University of Gloucestershire, UK
Anet Režek Jambrak, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Manuel Jamilena, University of Almería, Spain
Anders H. Karlsson, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
Roy Kennedy, Warwickshire Colleges, UK
Ferando Lidon, New University of Lisbon, Portugal
Ornella Mikuš, University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Croatia
Piergiuseppe Morone, Unitelma-Sapienza, University of Rome, Italy
Peter Morgan, Aquamor Pvt Ltd., Zimbabwe
Theodoor Niewold, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium
Norman Olson, University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA
Ari Pappinen, University of Eastern Finland, Finland
Paola Pittia, University of Teramo, Italy
Richard E. Plant, University of California, Davis, USA
Saskia van Ruth, Wageningen University and Research Centre, Netherlands
Andrea Vannini, Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Italy
Rimantas Venskutonis, Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuania
Stefan Vidal, Universitat Gottingen, Germany
Wim de Vries, Wageningen University and Research Centre, Netherlands
Xinmin Zhan, National University of Ireland, Ireland

Editors
Agro-ecology
Clifford S. Gold, Independent consultant, USA
Mehmood Ali Noor, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China
Sergio de los Santos Villalobos, Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora, Mexico
Ulrich Schmutz, Coventry University, United Kingdom
Christoph Steiner, University of Kassel, Germany
Debjani Sihi, University of Maryland, Center for Environmental Science, USA
Srdjan Šeremešić, University of Novi Sad, Serbia
Priit Tammeorg, University of Helsinki, Finland
Sebastian Wolfrum, Technische Universität München, Germany

Agro-forestry
Mirza Barjees Baig, King Saud University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (agricultural education, rural development, agricultural information and communication)
Rodolfo Alves Barbosa, University of Viçosa, Brazil
Bohdan Lojka, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Czech Republic
Mohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, Iran
Pedro Gonçalves Vaz, CEABN - Centre of Applied Ecology “Prof. Baeta Neves”, Portugal
Sebastian Wolfrum, Technische Universität München, Germany

Soil science
Agustín Alesso, National University of the Littoral, Argentina
Elena Aydin, Slovak University of Agriculture, Slovakia (soil physics)
Biswanath Dari, University of Florida, USA
Rahul Datta, Mendel University In Brno, Czech Republic
Fabián Fernández-Luqueño, Cinvestav Saltillo, Mexico
Shahid Hussain, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Pakistan
Charanjit Singh Kahlon, Independent consultant, USA (soil biology)
Noémi Kappel, Corvinus University of Budapest, Hungary (soil physics)
Mario Lira, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambco, Brazil
Sergio de los Santos Villalobos, Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora, Mexico
Riccardo Scalenghe, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Italy
Andres Seijo, Universidade do Porto Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Portugal
Parmodh Sharma, New Mexico State University, USA
Debjani Sihi, University of Maryland, Center for Environmental Science, USA (soil biology)
Christoph Steiner, University of Kassel, Germany (soil biology, biochar)
Priit Tammeorg, University of Helsinki, Finland (soil chemistry, soil physics, biochar)
Mohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, Iran
Sebastian Wolfrum, Technische Universität München, Germany (soil biology, organic matter)

Plant science
Bartosz Adamczyk, Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Finland
Duska Delic, University of Banjaluka, Republic of Srpska (plant pathology)
Mahendra Dia, North Carolina State University, NC, USA (plant breeding, plant biotechnology, plant genetics)
Clovis Douanla-Meli, Julius Kühn-Institut, Germany (plant pathology, plant ecology)
Baoguo Du, University of Freiburg, Germany (plant physiology)
Malleshwari Gelli, SIBS, DuPont-Pioneer, USA
Clifford S. Gold, Independent consultant, USA (plant ecology, plant pathology)
Dr. Thomas Graham, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
Alireza Haghighi Hasanalideh, CWARice, Iran
Vinod Jakkula, Bayer U.S – Crop Science, USA
Charanjit Singh Kahlon, Independent consultant, USA (plant physiology, plant ecology, plant breeding; agronomy)
Hristofor Kirchev, Agricultural University, Bulgaria
Gunars Lacis, Latvia State Institute of Fruit-Growing, Latvia (plant breeding)
Mehmood Ali Noor, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China
Mehdi Rahimi, Graduate University of Advanced Technology, Iran
Sergio de los Santos Villalobos, Instituto Tecnológicode Sonora, Mexico
Daljit Singh, Bayer – Crop Science, Monsanto Company, USA
Konstantinos Spanos, Forest Research Institute, Greece (plant pathology, plant breeding)
Khalid Ul Rehman Hakeem, King Abdulaziz University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Ramesh Vetukuri, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Sweden

Horticulture
Pinaki Acharyya, Central Institute for Arid Horticulture, India (olericulture, pomology, postharvest physiology, floriculture)
Cédric Camps, Agroscope, Switzerland (pomology, postharvest physiology)
Mário Cunha, University of Porto, Portugal (viticulture)
Boris Duralija, University of Zagreb, Croatia (pomology)
Ebrahim Hadavi, Islamic Azad University, Iran
Lorentz Jäntschi, Universitatea Tehnica din Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Noémi Kappel, Corvinus University of Budapest, Hungary (olericulture)
Sandeep Rana, Bayer U.S. – Crop Science, USA
Christoph Steiner, University of Kassel, Germany

Forestry
Alina M. Balu, Universidad de Cordoba, Spain (forest biomass)
Baoguo Du, University of Freiburg, Germany (silviculture)
Carol S.K. Lin, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong (forest biomass)
Konstantinos Spanos, Forest Research Institute, Greece (silviculture, arboriculture, conservation and management, biomass, forest genetics and forest tree breeding, forest biodiversity)

Wood technology
Alina M. Balu, Universidad de Cordoba, Spain (wood properties, wood products)
Ramon Gonzalez, J. Rettenmaier und Sohne USA, Cambridge, USA (wood, pulp and paper products)
Jaya Sundaram, United States Department of Agricultural, USA

Animal Science
Michael Boateng, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana
Tomislav Mikuš, University of Zagreb, Croatia
Jana Pickova, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Sweden
Arya Sobhakumari, University of California Davis, USA
Gunnar Sundstøl Eriksen, Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Norway

Entomology
Clifford S. Gold, Independent consultant, USA

Aquaculture
Sunil Kadri, Aquaculture Innovation, United Kingdom
Sven Würtz, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Germany
Jana Pickova, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Sweden

Hydrology, Irrigation
Babak M ohammadi, Lund University, Sweden
Prahlad Jat, University of North Carolina, USA
Elena Kondrlova, Slovak University of Agriculture, Slovakia
Sergio Salazar-Galán, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Colombia
Ulrich Schmutz, Coventry University, United Kingdom
Biswanath Dari, University of Florida, USA
Babak Vaheddoost, Bursa Technical University, Turkey
Mohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, Iran
Omid Aminoroayaie Yamini, K.N. Toosi University of Technology, Iran

Food science
Maria Manuela Abreu da Silva, ESEAG, University Lusofona, Portugal
Asif Ahmad, Institute of Food and Nutritional Sciences, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Felix Aladedunye, Max Rubner-Institut, Germany
Mehraj Ahmad, University Sains Malaysia, Malaysia (nutrition)
Ali Asghar, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
Alina M. Balu, Universidad de Cordoba, Spain
Mustafa Bayram, Gaziantep University, Turkey
Michael Boateng, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana
Julieta Correa-Betanzo, University of Guelph, Canada (Food Chemistry, Nutrition)
Cédric Camps, Agroscope, Switzerland (food engineering)
Rui Cruz, Universidade do Algarve, Portugal
Jose A. Egea, Center for Edaphology and Applied Biology of Segura (CEBAS-CSIC), Spain
Andronoiu Doina Georgeta, Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, Romania (food engineering, food technology, food texture, nutrition)
Ahmed I. Gomaa, Laval University, Canada
Ramon Gonzalez, J. Rettenmaier und Sohne USA, Cambridge, USA (food engineering, food technology)
Galani Yamdeu Joseph Hubert, University of Leeds, UK
Annie King, UC Davis, USA
Diganta Kalita, Colorado State University, USA (food technology, food chemistry, nutrition)
Przemysław Kowalczewski, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poland
Carol S.K. Lin, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong (food engineering)
Tomislav Mikuš, University of Zagreb, Croatia
Pranabendu Mitra, University of Wisconsin Stout, USA
Pankaj B Pathare, Newcastle University, UK (food engineering, food preservation)
Jana Pickova, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Sweden
Subash Shrestha, ConAgra Foods, USA (food microbiology)
Ajaypal Singh, United States Department of Agriculture, USA (Food engineering,Food chemistry, Food technology, Food preservation)
Jaya Sundaram, United States Department of Agricultural, USA
Gunnar Sundstøl Eriksen, Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Norway (food microbiology)
Jian Wu, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USA
Changmou Xu, University of Florida, USA

Agricultural economics
Mirza Barjees Baig, King Saud University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (agricultural education, rural development, agricultural information and communication)
Antonino Galati, University of Palermo, Italy
Antonio Lopolito, University of Foggia, Italy
Donato Morea, University of Cagliari, Italy
Piergiuseppe Morone, Unitelma-Sapienza, University of Rome, Italy (bio-based economics)
Arkadiusz Piwowar, Wroclaw University of Economics and Business, Poland
Ulrich Schmutz, Coventry University, United Kingdom
Roberta Sisto, University of Foggia, Italy
Ariel Soto-Caro, Universidad de Concepción - Campus Chillán, Chile

Agricultural engineering
Mário Cunha, University of Porto, Portugal (environmental engineering, biological systems engineering)
Rui S. Oliveira, University of Coimbra, Portugal (environmental engineering, biological systems engineering)
George S. Skouteris, Loughborough University, UK (environmental engineering, biological systems engineering)
Carol S.K. Lin, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong (biological systems engineering)
Cédric Camps, Agroscope, Switzerland (biological systems engineering)
Prahlad Jat, University of North Carolina, USA
Pankaj B Pathare, Newcastle University, UK (postharvest technology)
Pablo Martín Ramos, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain
Gurdeep Singh, The Climate Corporation, USA
Christoph Steiner, University of Kassel, Germany
Mohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, Iran
Jose A. Egea, Center for Edaphology and Applied Biology of Segura (CEBAS-CSIC); Campus Universitario de Espinardo, Spain

Climate-based Agriculture
Mário Cunha, University of Porto, Portugal (environmental engineering, biological systems engineering)
Cliford S. Gold, Independent consultant, USA
Debjani Sihi, University of Maryland, Center for Environmental Science, USA
Christoph Steiner, University of Kassel, Germany
Mohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, Iran
Martin Wiesmeier, Bavarian State Research Center for Agriculture, Germany

Amelioration
Biswanath Dari, University of Florida, USA
Elena Aydin, Slovak University of Agriculture, Slovakia
Christoph Steiner, University of Kassel, Germany
Mohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, Iran
Sebastian Wolfrum, Technische Universität München, Germany (soil improvement, erosion control)

Tropical Agriculture
Pinaki Acharyya, Central Institute for Arid Horticulture, India
Lorenzo Barbanti, University of Bologna, Italy
Vittorio Farina, University of Palermo, Italy
Clifford S. Gold, Independent consultant, USA
Sergio de los Santos Villalobos, Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora, Mexico
Christoph Steiner, University of Kassel, Germany
Debjani Sihi, University of Maryland, Center for Environmental Science, USA
Mohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, Iran

Microbiology
Sergio de los Santos Villalobos, Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora, Mexico
Debjani Sihi, University of Maryland, Center for Environmental Science, USA
Jian Wu, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USA

Sustainable developement
Felix Arion, AgroTransilvania Cluster: Dezmir, Romania
Joseph Awuni, University for Development Studies, Ghana
Mario D'Amico, Università di Catania, Italy
Giuseppe Di Vita, University of Turin, Italy
Sartaj Bhat, Gifu University, Japan
Prahlad Jat, University of North Carolina, USA
Piotr Prus, University of Science and Technology, Poland
Mohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, Iran
Sebastian Wolfrum, Technische Universität München, Germany (farm management systems, GIS)

Agronomy
Karkanis Anestis, University of Thessaly, Greece
Mirza Barjees Baig, King Saud University, Kingdomof Saudi Arabia (agricultural education, rural development, agricultural information and communication)
Moritz Von Cossel, University of Hohenheim: Stuttgart, Germany
Mário Cunha, University of Porto, Portugal (environmental engineering, biological systems engineering)
Vinod Jakkula, Bayer U.S – Crop Science, USA
Mirza Hasanuzzaman, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Bangladesh
Mehdi Rahimi, Graduate University of Advanced Technology, Iran
Domenico Ronga, Centro Ricerche Produzioni Animali SpA, Italy
Parmodh Sharma, New Mexico State University, USA
Daljit Singh, Bayer – Crop Science, Monsanto Company, USA
Agnieszka Synowiec, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Poland
Mohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, Iran

Plant biology
Dr. Anket Sharma, Guru Nanak Dev University, India

Biomass, Biofuel
Muhammad Irfan, University of Sargodha, Pakistan
Dahunsi Olatunde, Landmark University, Nigeria

Rural development
Fotios Chatzitheodoridis, University of Western Macedonia, Greece
Vitor Martinho, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu - Escola Superior Agrária, Portugal
Juan Rodríguez-Cohard, Universidad de Jaén, Spain
Kate Stephen, Scotland's Rural College, UK
Sri Krishna Sudheer Patoju, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, India

Agricultural information and communication
Festus Victor Bekun, Gelisim Üniversitesi, Turkey
Christian Franco-Crespo, Universidad Técnica de Ambato, Ecuador
Giuseppina Migliore, University of Palermo, Italy

Language Editors
Dorice Ago, Independent Consultant, UK
Graham Brodie, The University of Melbourne, Australia
Emmanuel G. Escobar, University of Sheffield, UK
Galani Yamdeu Joseph Hubert, University of Leeds, UK
Jasmin Hufschmid, The University of Melbourne, Australia
Renuka Kholkute, India
Neil R. McEwan, School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Robert Gordon University, Scotland, UK

Publisher
DE GRUYTER Poland
Bogumiła Zuga 32A Str.
01-811 Warsaw, Poland
T: +48 22 701 50 15

Editorial Contact
openagriculture@degruyter.com

(Deutsch)

Type: Journal
Language: English
Publisher: De Gruyter Open Access
First published: December 15, 2015
Publication Frequency: 1 Issue per Year