scholarly journals Diversity and dynamics of fungi during spontaneous fermentations and association with unique aroma profiles in wine

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Di Liu ◽  
Jean-Luc Legras ◽  
Pangzhen Zhang ◽  
Deli Chen ◽  
Kate Howell
Keyword(s):  
Crop Production ◽  
Regional Scale ◽  
Agricultural Practices ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Wine Aroma ◽  
Primary Role ◽  
Agricultural Ecosystem ◽  
Spontaneous Fermentation ◽  
Microbial Distribution ◽  
Spontaneous Fermentations

AbstractMicrobial activity is an integral part of an agricultural ecosystem and influences the quality of agricultural commodities. Microbial ecology influences grapevine health and crop production, conversion of sugar to ethanol during fermentation, thus wine aroma and flavour. There are regionally differentiated microbial patterns in grapevines and must but how microbial patterns contribute to wine regional distinctiveness (terroir) at small scale (<100 km) is not well defined. Here we characterise fungal communities, yeast populations, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae populations during spontaneous fermentation using metagenomics and population genetics to investigate microbial distribution and fungal contributions to the resultant wine. We found differentiation of fungi, yeasts, and S. cerevisiae between geographic origins (estate/vineyard), with influences from the grape variety. Growth and dominance of S. cerevisiae during fermentation reshaped the fungal community and showed geographic structure at the strain level. Associations between fungal microbiota diversity and wine chemicals suggest that S. cerevisiae plays a primary role in determining wine aroma profiles at a sub-regional scale. The geographic distribution at scales of less than 12 km supports that differential microbial communities, including the dominant fermentative yeast S. cerevisiae can be distinct in a local setting. These findings provide further evidence for microbial contributions to wine terroir, and perspectives for sustainable agricultural practices to maintain microbial diversity and optimise fermentation function to craft beverage quality.

scholarly journals Impact assessment of water and nutrient reuse in hydroponic systems using Bayesian Belief Networks

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 431-442 ◽  
Author(s):  
Martin Zimmermann ◽  
Michaela Fischer
Keyword(s):  
Water Reuse ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Municipal Wastewater ◽  
Expert Knowledge ◽  
Research Question ◽  
Agricultural Practices ◽  
Bayesian Belief Networks ◽  
Ecological Impacts ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Hydroponic Systems

Abstract Water-saving agricultural practices can reduce negative environmental impacts in water-scarce regions all over the world. This study deals with an innovation that combines hydroponic crop production and municipal wastewater reuse for irrigation purposes. The research question was what impacts such hydroponic water reuse systems have on product confidence, economic viability, groundwater recharge, biodiversity and landscape quality. It should also be clarified under which conditions and with which measures these systems can be sustainable. To answer these questions, a number of generic hydroponic water reuse systems were modeled and assessed using a Bayesian Belief Network that included both numerical values and expert knowledge. The hydroponic water reuse systems with the most positive overall impacts are small-scale food production systems (tomatoes) equipped with lighting and heating whose products are marked with a quality label or with a label for regional products. The systems are located in a former industrial area. In addition, a wetland system and landscape integration are implemented as landscaping measures. Hydroponic systems can be operated economically viable, their products have a high level of product confidence and their ecological impacts can be positive. No tradeoffs have to be accepted between economic, social and ecological goals.

REGIONAL DIFFERENTIATION AND POSSIBILITIES OF REDUCING AMMONIA EMISSIONS FROM AGRICULTURE IN POLAND

2019 ◽  
Vol XXI (4) ◽  
pp. 145-151
Author(s):  
Anna Jędrejek
Keyword(s):  
Crop Production ◽  
Regional Scale ◽  
Agricultural Practices ◽  
Spatial Differentiation ◽  
Plant Production ◽  
Regional Differentiation ◽  
Ammonia Emissions ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
National Centre ◽  
Total Ammonia

The main purpose of this paper was to present ammonia (NH3) emissions from agriculture, on a regional scale, in 2017, and identify recommendable agricultural practices limiting ammonia emissions. The methodology used to estimate emissions was based on the approach of the National Centre for Emissions Management (KOBiZE). Analyses were based on statistical data of Statistics Poland (GUS), from 2017. The results of the conducted study showed significant spatial differentiation of ammonia emissions from agriculture. The region of Wielkopolska had the highest NH3 emissions at a level of 34.5 kg NH3 per ha UAA. Lower ammonia emissions were identified in the following regions: Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Łódzkie, Mazowieckie, Podlaskie and Warmińsko-Mazurskie, between 20.3-24.7 kg NH3/ha UAA. In total ammonia emissions from agriculture, in Poland, 76.8% constituted emissions from the management of natural fertilisers. The Wielkopolskie and Podlaskie voivodships have a majority share in the emissions of ammonia from animal production – 29.1 and 21.3 kg NH3/ha UAA, respectively. Whereas, ammonia emissions from plant production in 2017 was 66 Gg, which equals 4.6 kg NH3/ha UAA. The highest emission of ammonia from plant production was detected in the Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Opolskie and Dolnośląskie voivodships, in regions characterized by the most intensive crop production. Estimated emissions were 6.9, 6.2 and 6.0 kg NH3/ha UAA, respectively. A reduction of ammonia emissions from agriculture can be obtained through the proper maintenance of livestock and natural fertilisers, and the implementation of low-carbon methods of the application of mineral nitrogen fertilizer.

Comparative Advantage of Using Biopesticides in Ukrainian Agroecosystems

2020 ◽  
Vol 2 (6) ◽  
Author(s):  
Hasrat Arjjumend ◽  
Konstantia Koutouki ◽  
Olga Donets
Keyword(s):  
Shelf Life ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Plant Protection ◽  
Agricultural Practices ◽  
Crop Productivity ◽  
Poor Quality ◽  
Soil Biology ◽  
Chemical Contamination ◽  
High Concentration ◽  
Irreversible Damage

The use of unsustainable levels of chemical fertilizers and plant protection chemicals has resulted in a steady decline in soil and crop productivity the world over. Soil biology has undergone irreversible damage, coupled with a high concentration of toxic chemical residues in plant tissues and human bodies. Agricultural practices must evolve to sustainably meet the growing global demand for food without irreversibly damaging soil. Microbial biocontrol agents have tremendous potential to bring sustainability to agriculture in a way that is safe for the environment. Biopesticides do not kill non-target insects, and biosafety is ensured because biopesticides act as antidotes and do not lead to chemical contamination in the soil. This article is part of a larger study conducted in Ukraine by researchers at the Université de Montréal with the support of Mitacs and Earth Alive Clean Technologies. The responses of farmers who use biofertilizers (“user farmers”) and those who do not (“non-user farmers”), along with the responses of manufacturers or suppliers of biofertilizers, and research and development (R&D) scientists are captured to demonstrate the advantages of applying microbial biopesticides to field crops. Participants reported a 15-30% increase in yields and crop production after the application of biopesticides. With the use of biopesticides, farmers cultivated better quality fruits, grains, and tubers with a longer shelf life. Moreover, while the risk of crop loss remains high (60-70%) with chemically grown crops, this risk is reduced to 33% on average if crops are grown using biopesticides. The findings indicate that a large proportion of farmers would prefer to use biopesticides if they are effective and high quality products. In this context, the quality and effectiveness of products is therefore very important. Despite their benefits to soil, human health, and ecosystems, biopesticides face significant challenges and competition vis-à-vis synthetic pesticides for a variety of reasons. Therefore, the development of biopesticides must overcome the problems of poor quality products, short shelf life, delayed action, high market costs, and legal/registration issues.

scholarly journals Microbial Biocontrol as an Alternative to Synthetic Fungicides: Boundaries between Pre- and Postharvest Applications on Vegetables and Fruits

Fermentation ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 60
Author(s):  
Vincenzo Michele Sellitto ◽  
Severino Zara ◽  
Fabio Fracchetti ◽  
Vittorio Capozzi ◽  
Tiziana Nardi
Keyword(s):  
Crop Production ◽  
Fruits And Vegetables ◽  
Control Plant ◽  
Agricultural Practices ◽  
Plant Diseases ◽  
Postharvest Quality ◽  
Crucial Point ◽  
Production Chain ◽  
Vegetables And Fruits ◽  
And Storage

From a ‘farm to fork’ perspective, there are several phases in the production chain of fruits and vegetables in which undesired microbial contaminations can attack foodstuff. In managing these diseases, harvest is a crucial point for shifting the intervention criteria. While in preharvest, pest management consists of tailored agricultural practices, in postharvest, the contaminations are treated using specific (bio)technological approaches (physical, chemical, biological). Some issues connect the ‘pre’ and ‘post’, aligning some problems and possible solution. The colonisation of undesired microorganisms in preharvest can affect the postharvest quality, influencing crop production, yield and storage. Postharvest practices can ‘amplify’ the contamination, favouring microbial spread and provoking injures of the product, which can sustain microbial growth. In this context, microbial biocontrol is a biological strategy receiving increasing interest as sustainable innovation. Microbial-based biotools can find application both to control plant diseases and to reduce contaminations on the product, and therefore, can be considered biocontrol solutions in preharvest or in postharvest. Numerous microbial antagonists (fungi, yeasts and bacteria) can be used in the field and during storage, as reported by laboratory and industrial-scale studies. This review aims to examine the main microbial-based tools potentially representing sustainable bioprotective biotechnologies, focusing on the biotools that overtake the boundaries between pre- and postharvest applications protecting quality against microbial decay.

scholarly journals Application of Autochthonous Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae XG3 in Treixadura Wines from D.O. Ribeiro (NW Spain): Effect on Wine Aroma

Fermentation ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 31
Author(s):  
Pilar Blanco ◽  
María Vázquez-Alén ◽  
Teresa Garde-Cerdán ◽  
Mar Vilanova
Keyword(s):  
Saccharomyces Cerevisiae ◽  
Pilot Scale ◽  
Sensory Level ◽  
Wine Aroma ◽  
Nw Spain ◽  
Volatile Phenols ◽  
Yeast Saccharomyces Cerevisiae ◽  
Spontaneous Fermentation ◽  
Autochthonous Yeast ◽  
Active Dry Yeast

Yeast plays an essential role in winemaking. Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains involved in fermentation determine the chemical and sensory characteristics of wines. S. cerevisiae XG3, isolated in Galicia (NW Spain), has desirable oenological potential, which has been proved at a pilot scale to produce quality wines. This study applies XG3 as active dry yeast at an industrial scale for Treixadura wine elaboration, and compares it with commercial yeast and spontaneous fermentation within three wineries included in Denomination of Origin Ribeiro over two vintages. Fermentations are monitored using conventional methods, and microbiological implantation controls are carried out by mtDNA-RFLPs analysis. Wine basic chemical parameters are determined using OIV official methodology, and volatile aroma compounds are determined by GC-MS. Finally, wine sensory analysis is also performed. S. cerevisiae XG3 shows an acceptable implantation ability—as compared to commercial control strains. The wines from XG3 have a higher total acidity and lower alcohol content. Their volatile composition differs from control wines, since XG3 produces significantly higher concentrations of acetates, volatile acids, esters and volatile phenols, depending on the vintage and winery. However, lower differences are perceived at the sensory level, where fruity and floral descriptors are perceived by the panellists in XG3 wines. Therefore, XG3 constitutes an alternative to differentiate Treixadura wines.

scholarly journals Agricultural Technical Efficiency of Smallholder Farmers in Ethiopia: A Stochastic Frontier Approach

Land ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 246
Author(s):  
Markose Chekol Zewdie ◽  
Michele Moretti ◽  
Daregot Berihun Tenessa ◽  
Zemen Ayalew Ayele ◽  
Jan Nyssen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Technical Efficiency ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Positive Impact ◽  
Smallholder Farmers ◽  
Stochastic Frontier ◽  
Crop Productivity ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Stochastic Frontier Approach ◽  
Small Scale Irrigation

In the past decade, to improve crop production and productivity, Ethiopia has embarked on an ambitious irrigation farming expansion program and has introduced new large- and small-scale irrigation initiatives. However, in Ethiopia, poverty remains a challenge, and crop productivity per unit area of land is very low. Literature on the technical efficiency (TE) of large-scale and small-scale irrigation user farmers as compared to the non-user farmers in Ethiopia is also limited. Investigating smallholder farmers’ TE level and its principal determinants is very important to increase crop production and productivity and to improve smallholder farmers’ livelihood and food security. Using 1026 household-level cross-section data, this study adopts a technology flexible stochastic frontier approach to examine agricultural TE of large-scale irrigation users, small-scale irrigation users and non-user farmers in Ethiopia. The results indicate that, due to poor extension services and old-style agronomic practices, the mean TE of farmers is very low (44.33%), implying that there is a wider room for increasing crop production in the study areas through increasing the TE of smallholder farmers without additional investment in novel agricultural technologies. Results also show that large-scale irrigation user farmers (21.05%) are less technically efficient than small-scale irrigation user farmers (60.29%). However, improving irrigation infrastructure shifts the frontier up and has a positive impact on smallholder farmers’ output.

Exploiting the beneficial properties of microalgae for food and feed use

2021 ◽  
Vol 67 (4) ◽  
pp. 3634-3648
Author(s):  
Erika Koppányné Szabó ◽  
Krisztina Takács
Keyword(s):  
Climate Change ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Raw Materials ◽  
Large Population ◽  
Agricultural Practices ◽  
Value Added ◽  
Biologically Active ◽  
Population Increase ◽  
Health Food ◽  
Food And Feed

By 2050, 9.8 billion people are projected to live on Earth, which means that we need to double our current food production to keep pace with such a large population increase. In addition, rising greenhouse gas emissions and the associated climate change are placing a significant strain on the planet’s ability to sustain itself. However, in order to increase the quantity of proteins of plant origin, it is necessary to increase crop production areas, harvesting frequencies and the quantity of crops produced. Unfortunately, the optimization of these factors is already very close to the available maximum in the current situation. The developed cultivation systems and maximum utilization of the soil power leads to very serious environmental problems, soil destruction, loss of biodiversity and serious environmental pollution through the transport of the produced plant raw materials. This poses a serious challenge to food security and further increases the risk of hunger. There is therefore a need for agricultural practices that can lead to the cultivation of food and feed crops that have better sustainability indicators and are more resilient to climate change, which can be used to safely produce health-promoting feeds, as well as novel and value-added foods. Within this group, a particular problem is presented by the protein supply of the population, as currently about one billion people do not have adequate protein intake. However, conventional protein sources are not sufficient to meet growing protein needs. As mentioned above, food and feed proteins are based on plant proteins. In recent years, a prominent role has been played by the research into alternative proteins and the mapping of their positive and negative properties. Among alternative proteins, special attention has been paid to various yeasts, fungi, bacteria, algae, singe cell proteins (SCPs) and insects. In this paper, we focus on the presentation of algae, particularly microalgae, which are of paramount importance not only because of their significant protein content and favorable amino acid composition, but also because they are also sources of many valuable molecules, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids, pigments, antioxidants, drugs and other biologically active compounds. It is important to learn about microalgae biomass in order to be able to develop innovative health food products.

scholarly journals Biodiversity and trophic ecology of hydrothermal vent fauna associated with tubeworm assemblages on the Juan de Fuca Ridge

2018 ◽  
Vol 15 (9) ◽  
pp. 2629-2647 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yann Lelièvre ◽  
Jozée Sarrazin ◽  
Julien Marticorena ◽  
Gauthier Schaal ◽  
Thomas Day ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Food Webs ◽  
Hydrothermal Vent ◽  
Trophic Structure ◽  
Juan De Fuca Ridge ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Ecological Niches ◽  
Primary Role ◽  
Fuca Ridge ◽  
Juan De Fuca ◽  
Successional Stages

Abstract. Hydrothermal vent sites along the Juan de Fuca Ridge in the north-east Pacific host dense populations of Ridgeia piscesae tubeworms that promote habitat heterogeneity and local diversity. A detailed description of the biodiversity and community structure is needed to help understand the ecological processes that underlie the distribution and dynamics of deep-sea vent communities. Here, we assessed the composition, abundance, diversity and trophic structure of six tubeworm samples, corresponding to different successional stages, collected on the Grotto hydrothermal edifice (Main Endeavour Field, Juan de Fuca Ridge) at 2196 m depth. Including R. piscesae, a total of 36 macrofaunal taxa were identified to the species level. Although polychaetes made up the most diverse taxon, faunal densities were dominated by gastropods. Most tubeworm aggregations were numerically dominated by the gastropods Lepetodrilus fucensis and Depressigyra globulus and polychaete Amphisamytha carldarei. The highest diversities were found in tubeworm aggregations characterised by the longest tubes (18.5 ± 3.3 cm). The high biomass of grazers and high resource partitioning at a small scale illustrates the importance of the diversity of free-living microbial communities in the maintenance of food webs. Although symbiont-bearing invertebrates R. piscesae represented a large part of the total biomass, the low number of specialised predators on this potential food source suggests that its primary role lies in community structuring. Vent food webs did not appear to be organised through predator–prey relationships. For example, although trophic structure complexity increased with ecological successional stages, showing a higher number of predators in the last stages, the food web structure itself did not change across assemblages. We suggest that environmental gradients provided by the biogenic structure of tubeworm bushes generate a multitude of ecological niches and contribute to the partitioning of nutritional resources, releasing communities from competition pressure for resources and thus allowing species to coexist.

scholarly journals Is Cut-Flower Industry Promotion by the Government Negatively Affecting Pollinator Biodiversity and Environmental/Human Health in Uganda?

2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-52
Author(s):  
Bin Mushambanyi Théodore Munyuli
Keyword(s):  
Human Health ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Vegetation Type ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Pollination Services ◽  
Toxicological Studies ◽  
The Government ◽  
Small Scale Farmers ◽  
The Impact

A study was conducted from 2010 to 2012 around the flower growing areas in central Uganda to generate baseline information on the status of pollinators. Primary data were gathered using a questionnaire that aimed at determining farmers and flower farm officials’ perceptions on the impact of activities carried out inside greenhouses on pollinators, human health, and on crop production in the surroundings. Results indicated that the quantity of pesticides and fertilizers applied daily varied among the different flower farms visited. Bee species richness and abundance varied significantly (P<0.01) according to flower farm location, to the landscape vegetation type, and to field types found in the surrounding of flower farms. Bee richness found around flower farms varied in number from 20 to 40 species in total across seasons and years. Bee density increased significantly with the increase in flower density. Small-scale farmers were aware of the value and importance of pollination services in their farming business. There was no clear evidence of a direct effect of agrochemicals application on bee communities living in the surrounding habitats. There is a need for further research to be conducted on human health risks and for toxicological studies on soils, plants, flowers, and bees in the farm landscape.

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