LIFE SCIENCE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

VEGETATION TEMPORAL VARIATION ANALYSIS WITHIN "PADUREA CENAD" PROTECTED AREA BASED ON REMOTE SENSING

Simona Rosu — 2024-07-21

The study used the technique based on remote sensing to analyze the temporal variability within the "Cenad Forest" Protected Area, Timis County, Romania. The Sentinel 2 satellite system was used to obtain satellite images. Images were taken in the four seasons, the period 2020-2022. The result was a package of 12 sets of satellite data, one for each anotype and year of the study period. Based on the spectral values, the NDMI, NDVI and NBR indices were calculated (series of 908 data for each index, season and year). Descriptive statistical analysis was used for the primary evaluation of the data. In the case of 2020, the variation of the NDVI index in relation to NDMI and of the NBR index in relation to NDMI and NDVI was described by polynomial equations of degree 2, with the exception of moment t3, when NBR in relation to NDVI was described by a linear equation. In the case of the year 2021, the variation of the NBR index in relation to the NDVI (at all four moments of determination) was described by linear equations, and in the case of the other indices the variation was described by polynomial equations of the 2nd degree. In the case of 2022, the variation of the NBR-t1 index in relation to NDVI-t1 was described by a polynomial equation of the 2nd degree, and in all other cases, the variation of the indices was described by linear equations. In the case of 2022, the average values of the indices showed lower levels than the average values recorded in 2020 and 2021. The comparative analysis of the data series, for each index, from the years 2020 and 2021 compared to the year 2022, led to statistically safe differences (p<0.001). An exception was registered in the case of NDMI-t4 (year 2020) and NDVI-t1 (2021) when the differences did not present safety (p>0.05).

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SOME SOYBEAN GENOTYPES BASED ON BIOMETRIC PARAMETERS

Andreea Lidia Jurjescu — 2024-07-21

The study made a comparative analysis regarding the behavior of some soybean genotypes in non-irrigated crop system. Experiments were carried out within ARDS Lovrin, on a chernozem type soil with medium fertility. The following genotypes were cultivated: 'Calma', 'Caro', 'Isa', 'Karavukovo', 'Perla', and 'Ziana'. Sowing was done at the optimal time, at a distance of 70 cm between rows, and the crop technology ensured favorable conditions for plant growth. At physiological maturity, plant samples were taken and determinations were made regarding: plant density (PD, plants/m²), plant weight (PW, kg/m²), soybean pod weight (SpW, kg/m²), soybean grain weight (SgW, kg/m²), soybean pods shells weight (SpsW, kg/m²). Based on the recorded values, the yield of soybeans in relation to pods (Y, %) was calculated. PW/SpW, PW/SgW, and PsW/SgW ratios were also calculated. Very strong, positive correlation was recorded between SgW and SpW (r = 0.998), between Y (%) and SpW (r = 0.923), and between Y and SgW (r = 0.944). According to PCA, PC1 explained 74.369% of variance, and PC2 explained 14.769% of variance. The Cluster Analysis generated the dendrogram of soybean genotypes based on similarity (Coph.corr = 0.972), and a high level of similarity was recorded between 'Calma' and 'Isa' genotypes (SDI = 1.6926). In relation to the average value of the experiment, the 'Perla' genotype stood out for the PW parameter, the 'Ziana' genotype for the SpW parameter, the 'Ziana' genotype for the SgW parameter, and the 'Perla' genotype for yield (Y, %).

SATELLITE INDICES IN VEGETATION DESCRIPTION - COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS AND INTERDEPENDENCES

Mihai Valentin Herbei — 2024-07-21

The study analyzed the variability of some indices, interdependence relationships and differences in the vegetation description. Based on the Rapid Eye satellite system, images were taken for the ATU Padureni area, Timis County, Romania. From the analysis of the images, the spectral bands were obtained and the NDVI, gNDVI, NDVIre, and RTVIcore indices were calculated. The series of values presented a normal distribution, under conditions of r = 0.982 in the case of gNDVI, r = 0.961 in the case of NDVI, r = 0.983 in the case of NDVIre, respectively r = 0.990 in the case of RTVIcore. The descriptive statistical analysis facilitated obtaining the values of the statistical parameters and the description of the data series for each index. Based on the coefficient of variation (CV), the indices considered showed high variability; CV = 54.7535 in the case of the NDVIre index, CV = 57.2578 in the case of the RTVIcore index, CV = 58.0955 in the case of the NDVI index and CV = 64.5481 in the case of the gNDVI index. Linear models described the variation of the gNDVI index and the NDVIre index in relation to the NDVI index (p = 0). Polynomial models of the 2nd degree described the variation of RTVIcore in relation to NDVI (R² = 0.918), in relation to gNDVI (R² = 0.954) and in relation to NDVIre (R² = 0.938), p = 0. The comparative analysis of gNDVI and NDVIre indices in relation to NDVI led to statistically significant differences (p<0.001) in relation to the mean and median value of the NDVI index.

PRELIMINARY RESULTS REGARDING THE EFFECTS OF GREEN MANURES ON WHEAT CULTIVATION ON THE ACIDIC SOILS OF THE NORTH-WEST REGION OF ROMANIA

Peter-Balazs Acs — 2024-07-21

This study addressed the burgeoning interest in ecological agriculture, emphasizing sustainable and regenerative practices. Among these, the utilization of green manures emerged as pivotal for enhancing soil health and augmenting the yield of nutritionally dense crops. Five plant species (triticale, peas, soybeans, sunflower, and rapeseed) were selected for incorporation, sown during the summer, and subsequently integrated into the soil while still in their vegetative phase, preceding the optimal sowing window for wheat.

The experiment encompassed three repetitions for the principal crop, of wheat implemented through split-plot design. Each repetition comprised both a fertilized and an unfertilized plot, further sub-divided, with certain segments receiving fungicidal treatment and others left untreated. The experimental setup was situated on an albic luvisol, exhibiting humus content ranging from 1% to 1.8% in the plow layer, coupled with an acidic pH range of 4.2 to 5.3. The trial site was located within the experimental fields of the Plant Protection Laboratory at the Livada Agricultural Research and Development Station, Satu Mare County.

The primary aim of this experiment was to evaluate the influence of green manures, including their synergistic interplay with chemical fertilizers (calcium ammonium nitrate 27% N), on wheat. Evaluative parameters encompassed yield metrics, weed infestation levels, disease and pest resistance, along with the quality attributes of the principal crops. Ultimately, the study sought to furnish a encompassing comprehension of the advantages conferred by this regenerative agricultural practice, within the contemporary framework of ecological and agronomic imperatives.

In conclusion, the inaugural year of experimenting with green manures did not yield an immediate augmentation in crop yield. However, it became evident that additional fertilization was required to fully harness the benefits of green manures. Encouragingly, the data spotlighted a propitious finding—green manures bolstered the disease resistance of wheat, implying enduring advantages for crop health. Furthermore, the adoption of rapeseed and peas as green manure crops, demonstrated a noteworthy reduction in weeding, affording an economical and pragmatic edge for sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, when amalgamated with chemical fertilizers, the interaction with green manures evinced an augmented production capacity, underscoring the potential for a synergistic strategy in maximizing crop output.

These revelations highlight the significance of a holistic and integrated approach to agricultural methodologies, underscoring the value of amalgamating green manures with judicious fertilization strategies. As we persist in our exploration and refinement of these techniques, the potential for enhancing both productivity and sustainability in our agricultural systems remains considerable, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and efficient food production process.

INFLUENCE OF TECHNOLOGICAL FACTORS ON QUALITY AND SOME YIELD ELEMENTS OF ANDRADA WINTER WHEAT VARIETY, CULTIVATED IN TRANSLILVANIA PLAIN CONDITIONS

Camelia Urda — 2024-07-21

For evaluating the influence of tillage system, fertilization and phytosanitary treatment on wheat seed quality, an experiment was conducted at Research and Development Station for Agriculture (RDSA) Turda. Seeds of Andrada winter wheat variety were analysed for: Ash [%], G, Gluten [%], HlWeight [kg/hl], L [mm], Moisture [%], P [mm], P/L, Protein [%], Protein_DM [%], W [Jx10E-4], Zeleny [ml]. Generally, quality was influenced by fertilization and phytosanitary treatment, small variation depending on tillage system being identified. In the no-tillage version, when the mineral fertilizer N₁₃₄P₄₈K₄₈ and when seed treatment and two foliar treatments were applied maximum values wwre obtained for: prorein content (11.69%), gluten content (22.4%), Zeleny index (33 ml). In terms of hectoliter weight, the highest value of 77.75 kg/hl was obtained in the classical crop system, when fertilization with complex fertilizer N₈₈P₄₈K₄₈ together with seed treatment and one foliar treatment were applied. In terms of yield elements, the negative relationship between quality and yield is highlighted, namely if in the „no tillage system” good results for quality were obtained, in classic system, high values for plant height, numebr of grains/spike, grain weight/spike and for spike lenght compared to „minimum” or „no tillage” were identified.

BIOMETRIC PARAMETERS IN THE CHARACTERIZATION OF EARS IN A COLLECTION OF CORN GENOTYPES

Alina Laura Agapie — 2024-07-21

The study evaluated morphological parameters and yield elements in corn ears to compare a collection of corn genotypes. The research took place in ARDS Lovrin, Romania. 80 maize genotypes were analyzed, and certain representative parameters were determined: corn ear weight (CEW, kg), corn grain weight (CGW, kg), corn cob weight (CCW, kg). Based on the recorded values, the kernels in corn ears was calculated (KCE, %). Several ratios were also calculated, CEW/CGW, CEW/CCW, and CGW/CCW. The data series showed normal distribution and statistical confidence. Very strong positive correlation was recorded between CGW and CEW (r = 0.963), and between the ratios CGW/CCW and CEW/CCW (r = 0.996). Very strong negative correlation was registered between the ratio CEW/CGW and KCE(%), r = -0.992. According to PCA, PC1 explained 69.055% of variance, and PC2 explained 29.108% of variance. The close correlation of the Lv_47 hybrid with the KCE parameter (%) was observed. According to the cluster analysis, the dendrogram for the classification of genotypes based on similarity, in relation to the KCE parameter resulted (Coph.corr. – 0.813). The variation of the KCE parameter (%) in relation to the CEW, CGW, and CCW parameters was analyzed by regression analysis. Mathematical models described the variation of KCE in relation to the considered morphological parameters, under statistical safety conditions (R² = 0.999 in relation to CEW and CGW; R² = 0.757 in relation to CEW and CCW; R² = 0.835 in relation to CGW and CCW; p <0.001 for all cases). Graphical models (3D, isoquants) represented the KCE variation (%) in relation to the considered morphological parameters. The divergent influence was recorded in the case of the CGW and CCW parameters on the KCE distribution.

PRODUCTION AND SOME QUALITY INDICES VARIATION IN CORN - CASE STUDY IN FARM CONDITIONS

Vasile Daniel Grigor — 2024-07-21

The study comparatively analyzed the production results and the values of some quality indices for two corn hybrids, in the specific crop conditions of the Western Plain of Romania. Corn crops was carried out in the area of Grabaț locality, Timis County, Romania. Corn hybrids P9889 and DKC5092 were cultivated, in a non-irrigated system, between 2021 and 2023. Adequate plant growth conditions were ensured through crop technology. In the case of the P9889 hybrid, the productions were 8500 kg/ha (2021), 5350 kg/ha (2022), and 11000 kg/ha (2023). In the case of the DKC5092 hybrid, the productions were 7900 kg/ha (2021), 5800 kg/ha (2022) and 10800 kg/ha (2023). Based on mean grains samples, the crude protein content (CP) showed values between 8.5% (year 2021) and 10.05% (year 2023); the starch content (ST) presented values between 54.09% (year 2021) and 59.04% (year 2023); the crude cellulose content (crude fibers, CF) presented values between 1.99% (year 2021) and 2.25% (year 2023); the proportion of broken grains (BG) showed values between 0.98 (year 2023) and 1.3% (year 2022), with an mean value BG = 1.10%. A very strong positive correlation was recorded between CP and M (r = 0.955), between ST and M (r = 0.900), and between ST and CP (r = 0.989). Very strong negative correlation was recorded between Y and BG (r = - 0.926). A strong, positive correlation was recorded between CF and Y (r = 0.834), and between CF and M (r = 0.865). According to PCA, PC1 explained 60.307% of variance, and PC2 explained 39.693% of variance. The decrease in production in 2022 (extremely dry year), compared to the mean value, was DY = -2933.33 kg/ha for the P9889 hybrid, respectively DY = -2366.67 kg/ha for the DKC5092 hybrid. From the analysis of the obtained values, the hybrid P9889 recorded a greater decrease in production (difference of 566.66 kg/ha) compared to the hybrid DKC5092, under the conditions of 2022, specific to the study conditions.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION VARIABILITY IN EUROPEAN AND ASIATIC SOYBEAN GERMPLASM

Camelia Urda — 2024-07-21

In order to identify important sources of germplasm that can be used in the hybridization process to obtain specific soybeans, 140 genotypes from Asia and Europe were analyzed. The chemical analyses were performed using spectrophotometry, besides the protein and oil content, one unsatured fatty acid (stearic) and three saturated fatty acids (oleic, linoleic, linolenic) were determinated. In general, a higher protein content has been identified in Asian material. In terms of fatty acid profile, similar results were obtained in both types of germplasm. ES Indicator and Suinong 35 varieties were identified with the highest values for protein content, while for fat content NS-L50101 genotype and Hefeng 54 varieties were noted. The strong negative relationship identified between protein and oil hightlights that it is difficult to create genotypes that are rich in both parameters. The regression exemplified for the fat and protein content shows that varieties with a protein content of more than 35% and fat higher than 21.75% have not been identified within the European or Asian biological material.

DESCRIPTION OF SOME SOIL AGROCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS THROUGH PCA ANALYSIS

Florin Sala — 2024-07-21

The study evaluated how certain agrochemical indices, used in soil characterization, were classified. The study area, where the soil samples came from, was in the "Padurea Cenad" Protected Area, Timis County, Romania. The considered agrochemical indices resulted from soil analysis for agricultural land and forest land. The agrochemical indices were represented by soil reaction (pH), the content of some macroelements (Nt, P, K, Ca, Mg), microelements (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn), and heavy metals (Cr, Ni, Pb). The soil reaction was considered with each group of elements in the analysis. According to the PCA analysis, in the case of macroelements, pH, Nt, K, Ca were grouped in PC1, and P and Mg were grouped in PC2. In the case of microelements, pH, Mn, Zn were grouped in PC1, and Cu and Fe were grouped in PC2. In the case of heavy metals, all elements were grouped in PC1. The soil reaction (pH) showed negative action in relation to macroelements (r = -0.999), and in relation to heavy metals (r = -0.972), and positive action in relation to microelements (r = 0.847). Negative action was also recorded in the case of Ca (r = -0.970). In the case of macroelements, Mg showed a strong action (r = 0.770), and the other elements showed a very strong action (r > 0.900). In the case of microelements, pH and Fe showed a strong action (r = 0.847; r = 0.877), and the other elements showed a very strong action (r > 0.900). In the case of heavy metals, Cr showed a weak action (r = 0.576), and the other elements showed a very strong action (r > 0.900). In all three analyzed groups, the results showed statistical certainty (p < 0.001).

THE INFLUENCE OF FERTILIZATION ON THE QUALITY AND BIOLOGICAL GROWTH OF LOLIUM PERENNE

Cristian Bostan — 2024-07-21

Perennial ryegrass has been the subject of breeding activity focused on intensive breeding, especially in recent decades. Breeding has focused on population improvement and obtaining synthetic cultivars that show strong increases in biomass yield. This in the conditions where the production of biomass, respectively the green mass/forage is one of the most important productive features of forage plants. The ability to increase the yield of the whole plant through reproduction reaches an optimal index of leaf area quite quickly during the growth of the forage plant support. Varieties were created and selected with short growth, greater density, persistence and resistance to cutting. Although phenotypic differences between these functional groups are evident, a genome-wide analysis of the degree of differentiation and biological pathways, or genes under selection, has not been previously reported. Productive success has been achieved in recent decades as summer and autumn dry matter yield has increased between 0.3 % and 0.9% annually over the past 40–50 years, and spring dry matter yield has remained almost unchanged. Breeders have developed forage ryegrass crops with different maturity groups, from early to late season types, adapted to a long grazing season that are being used for permanent pastures, due to growth in both summer and autumn.

STUDY REGARDING THE QUALITATIVE AND YIELD CARACHTERS VARIABILITY FOR SOME WHITE MUSTARD GENOTYPES

Klaudia Kincel — 2024-07-21

The purpose of this study was to obtain knowledge about the variability of the quantitative and qualitative traits for 9 genotypes of different genetic origin white mustard. This study was carried out for three years in the pedoclimatic conditions of the Agricultural Research and Development Station Lovrin. Ten parameters were taken into study, namely: silique length, number of branches/plant, number of grains/silique, number of silique/plant, number of seeds/plant, hectoliter weight, TSW, oil production and content. In order to determine the correlation coefficient, the data of the experiment were processed in Past 4 - statistical analysis software. The graphical representations were created in Microsoft Office Excel software.