The Revista Mexicana de Ciencias Agrícolas. It is a scientific journal edited by the Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias (INIFAP). It is bilingual and is a continuously published magazine. Original and unpublished publications, related to agricultural sciences and related areas, which are presented in the form of scientific articles, research notes, essays and description of crops, with the purpose of disseminating the results of research on the agricultural topic to society. . Revista Mexicana de Ciencias Agrícolas is aimed at researchers, academics and, in general, at all people in society interested in agricultural sciences. Revista Mexicana de Ciencias Agrícolas has managed to position itself as a knowledge transfer resource.
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Radiosensitivity of buds and effect of gamma radiation (Co60) in sugar cane variety Mayarí 55-14
Sugarcane is an important grass because it produces sucrose, which is used as a raw material in numerous industrial and agrifood processes. Gamma-ray-induced mutagenesis has proven to be an efficient alternative method for obtaining plant varieties with desirable characteristics in a short time, so knowing the radiosensitivity of genotypes is a crucial step. The objective was to determine the radiosensitivity curve in sugarcane buds and plants of the Mayarí 55-14 variety with gamma radiation to induce variation. A total of 10 radiation treatments, ranging from 0 to 90 Gy, were established, with 100 buds per treatment. The buds were irradiated at the National Institute for Nuclear Research during 2022. Later, the buds were planted at the Higher Technological Institute of Los Reyes. The median lethal dose and the median growth reduction were analyzed by regression, yielding 50.16 and 51.25 Gy, respectively. Starting at 60 Gy, radiation significantly reduced shoot emergence and survival. In variables such as stem thickness, plant height, number of leaves, and number of tillers, there was a reduction between 30 and 70 Gy, according to the analysis of variance and Tukey’s test (p≤ 0.05). It is suggested to irradiate buds of the Mayarí 55-14 variety with doses between 40 and 60 Gy to cause variation and detect possible outstanding mutants with traits of interest.
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Global trends and dynamics of water productivity in agriculture: a bibliometric analysis
Increasing irrigation water productivity (WP) is essential to address water scarcity and ensure agrifood sustainability, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. To this end, a bibliometric analysis of the scientific literature on WP in agriculture was conducted. This research aimed to characterize global scientific output, global trends, the most influential actors, and the main lines of research in this field. A total of 3 833 documents published in Scopus between 1983 and 2024 were analyzed using bibliometric indicators. The results show exponential growth in scientific output since 2009. China, India and the United States of America account for 55% of global production. The most influential journal was Agricultural Water Management, with 776 publications, whereas China Agricultural University stood out as the institution with 181 publications and 7 058 citations. Thematic mapping identified five main clusters: agronomic strategies, sustainability and climate change, strategic crop management, agricultural modeling and ecophysiological bases. In short, water productivity has consolidated itself as a strategic axis of global agricultural research. This study offers a comprehensive view that can guide future research, drive agronomic innovation and strengthen policies for more efficient water management in agriculture.
Efficacy of botanical and biological insecticides against Spodoptera frugiperda in corn
The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, is one of the main pests of corn in Ecuador, causing significant yield losses. The intensive use of chemical insecticides for its control poses environmental and human health risks. As a sustainable alternative, this study evaluated the efficiency of biological and botanical insecticides under laboratory conditions. The research was conducted from May to July 2025 using a completely randomized design with four treatments [BotaniGard® ES (Beauveria bassiana), Dipel® WG (Bacillus thuringiensis), NeemAzal® T/S (neem oil), and Delegate® 250 WG (spinetoram, as a chemical control)], which were applied to third-instar larvae via the leaf immersion technique, with evaluations at 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. Results showed that B. thuringiensis achieved 100% mortality at 96 h, followed by neem oil and B. bassiana, both with 97.5%. Spinetoram produced immediate and sustained mortality of 100% from 24 h. In contrast, neem showed a low initial mortality rate (17.5%) that progressively increased over time. Overall, the biological and botanical insecticides evaluated are effective alternatives for managing S. frugiperda under laboratory conditions, helping reduce dependence on conventional chemical insecticides.
Bradyrhizobium sp. role in strengthening biochemical defense of trefoil under metal stress
This study explores the role of Bradyrhizobium sp. (Lotus) in enhancing the biochemical resilience of Lotus ornithopodioïdes during germination under metal stress conditions. Specifically, the effects of cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu) on germination and various biochemical parameters were assessed. Seeds were inoculated with Bradyrhizobium sp. (Lotus) and subjected to different concentrations of trace metals. Key biochemical parameters, including proline, amino acids, total soluble sugars, α-amylase activity, and DNA content, were analyzed. The results demonstrated that inoculation with Bradyrhizobium sp. (Lotus) significantly mitigated the adverse effects of metal stress, leading to improved germination rates and enhanced biochemical responses. Notably, proline and amino acid levels were reduced, while α-amylase activity and DNA content increased in inoculated seeds compared to non-inoculated controls. These findings suggest that Bradyrhizobium sp. (Lotus) plays a vital role in promoting resilience in Lotus ornithopodioïdes under metal stress, highlighting its potential for use in bioremediation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Management of Podosphaera xanthii (Castagne) U. Braun & Shishkoff in squash under field conditions in Tehuacán
This work aimed to evaluate different combinations of oils and mineral salts for controlling Podosphaera xanthii in squash (Cucurbita pepo) under field conditions. A squash crop of the Rocío variety was established. The treatments consisted of the combined application of salts (Potassium Bicarbonate-Boron) and oils (Orange, Orange-Soybean and Orange-Olive) at doses of 2 g L-1 for salts and 10 ml L-1 for oils, with five replications, evaluated under a randomized complete block design. The variables evaluated were severity, phytotoxicity, number of fruits and yield. The results showed that treatments based on orange-orange and soybean-orange oils presented the lowest severity percentages, with 8.57% and 9.14%, respectively. The phytotoxicity variable showed no differences between treatments, as none caused toxicity in plants. Regarding the number of fruits and total yield, the orange-orange treatment had the highest averages, followed by the fungicide treatment. It is concluded that oil-based treatments may represent a viable alternative for managing P. xanthii, with the orange-orange combination at 10 ml L-1 standing out as an effective option in the Tehuacán Valley, Puebla, Mexico.
Artisanal mezcal production in San Baltazar Chichicapám
In Mexico, mezcal production has a designation of origin, and the largest production at the national level occurs in communities in Oaxaca, with cultural and economic importance; the municipality of San Baltazar Chichicapám is located in the Mezcal Region. The objective was to analyze the mezcal production process, quantifying the raw materials used and the yield obtained in each batch. The information was obtained in 2023 in 10 palenques through semi-structured interviews, dialogues, and participatory direct observation. Chi-square tests and Spearman’s correlations (α= 0.05) were performed. The mezcal production volume is highly dependent (p≤ 0.01) on the producer’s sex and marital status, as well as on their level of education, experience, and the organization with which they are affiliated. The total weight of the hearts of Agave angustifolia and A. marmorata was 80 kg and 20 kg, respectively. Mesquite (Prosopis spp.) and oak (Quercus) firewood are mainly used in stem cooking, and the type and amount of firewood influenced the baking time. In the various palenques, mezcal production varied from 2 000 to 15 000 L year-1; when using Agave angustifolia, A. potatorum (tobalá) and a mixture (ensamble) of A. angustifolia and A. marmorata, an average of 9-9.6, 16.66 and 8.42 kg of stems of those species were used for each liter of mezcal produced, respectively.
Biological and botanical treatments as a dual control and biostimulation strategy for corn crops affected by Fusarium verticillioides
Phytopathogenic fungi in staple cereals can affect not only productivity but also the health of those who consume them. The objective of this research was to determine the antifungal activity of Trichoderma harzianum and Bacillus subtilis, as well as the hydroalcoholic extracts of Larrea tridentata and Argemone mexicana against Fusarium verticillioides under laboratory and field conditions. In vitro inhibition in dual cultures against the phytopathogen ranged from 82 to 86% for T. harzianum, B. subtilis, and L. tridentata; in contrast, for A. mexicana, it was 18%. The treatments reduced the incidence in the harvested grain by more than 70% in treated plants compared to the control. The application of treatments with T. harzianum, B. subtilis, A. mexicana, L. tridentata and a combination of T. harzianum and B. subtilis achieved a significant increase in plant height, which is directly related to the leaf area index; this resulted in optimal grain filling compared to the control; as a result, the yield potential of the Hernán Cortés hybrid was significantly expressed, with the botanical extracts outperforming the control and the microorganisms themselves, resulting in greater ear weight. Molecular corroboration of the phytopathogenic strain indicated 99% identity with F. verticillioides contained in the GenBank database.
Physical characterization and water performance of organic, inorganic substrates and their combinations
The use of a suitable substrate is decisive for the success of protected agriculture. This study aimed to evaluate the physical properties of various substrates and determine which offer greater water efficiency for application in protected agricultural systems. The research was conducted in 2025 at the Soil Physics Laboratory of the College of Postgraduates, Montecillo Campus. Seven substrates were analyzed: tezontle, coconut fiber, bovine compost and their mixtures. Total porosity, aeration porosity, water retention porosity, bulk density, granulometry and water retention capacity were determined. Likewise, readily available water, reserve water and total available water were quantified. The results indicated that coconut fiber and its combinations exhibited the most favorable values for total porosity, water retention porosity and total available water, consistent with reports in the specialized literature. Tezontle showed the lowest water retention porosity (17.5%), whereas coconut fiber stood out for its high water retention capacity (58.7%) and low bulk density (0.06 Mg m-3). The mixtures presented a balanced granulometry, unlike the pure substrates, which showed an excess of fine particles. Total available water showed positive correlations with water retention porosity (r²= 0.91) and the fine fraction (r²= 0.75), and negative correlations with coarse particles (r²= -0.76) and aeration porosity (r²= -0.6). In general, the combinations with coconut fiber offered adequate physical conditions that promote efficient water management in soilless cultivation systems.
Effect of pollen carriers on cherimoya production in the Andean region
The research aimed to evaluate the effect of pollen carriers on cherimoya (Annona cherimola Mill.) production through the use of assisted pollination under conditions of the high Andean zone of the Lima region, Peru. The design used was a randomized complete block design with six treatments and three replications. The treatments were: T1) pollen carrier with chuño flour (potato starch); T2) pollen carrier with Lycopodium clavatum flour; T3) pollen carrier with white corn flour; T4) pollen carrier with wheat flour; T5) pollen carrier with industrial talc; and T6) natural pollination (control). Each experimental unit consisted of three trees arranged in a 48 m2 area. The variables evaluated were the number of fruits set per tree, yield by fruit category (t ha-1), and total yield (t ha-1). The averages were compared using the Scott-Knott test at 5% level. It was found that treatment with L. clavatum flour significantly outperformed all other treatments, obtaining more fruits set per tree, higher total yield, and higher yield in each of the categories considered; it was followed in importance by chuño flour. The control treatment produced the lowest values for the set of characteristics evaluated and was statistically lower (p< 0.05) than the other treatments. It is concluded that assisted pollination with pollen carriers significantly increases cherimoya production, with treatments with L. clavatum flour and chuño flour standing out.
Growth and CO2 assimilation of Agave potatorum Zucc. supplied at different nutritional levels
En el estado de Oaxaca, México, el Agave potatorum se colecta de poblaciones silvestres o se propaga mediante semillas en pequeñas extensiones y se utiliza para elaborar la bebida destilada mezcal. La especie se ha propagado in vitro y las plantas obtenidas se trasplantan a sustrato para su aclimatización durante 90 días y después se establecen en vivero durante 12 meses para alcanzar tamaño mayor, y al fertilizar las plantas se ha mejorado su crecimiento. El objetivo fue evaluar el área foliar y la tasa de asimilación de CO2 de plantas micropropagadas-aclimatizadas fertirrigadas con soluciones nutritivas California (Cal) o Steiner (St). Las plantas fertirrigadas con Cal-5% y con Cal-100% presentaron 20.8 y 27.7 hojas, 1 031.5 cm2 y 1 867.4 cm2 de área foliar, la roseta de 37 y 52.3 cm de diámetro, 19.5 y 29.5 cm de altura. La apertura estomática y asimilación de CO2 comenzó a las 16:00 h, al disminuir la radiación fotosintéticamente activa, alcanzando valores máximos de asimilación entre las 19:00 y 22:00 h. Las plantas fertirrigadas con Cal-100% y con St-100 % mostraron valores de asimilación de CO2, 17 y 11 µmol CO2 m-2 s-1, respectivamente.
Optimizing bean trade routes in Mexico through linear programming
This study optimized bean distribution routes in Mexico through linear programming to reduce logistics costs. Two scenarios were analyzed: one of a closed economy, which showed that national production is insufficient to meet total demand, and another of an open economy, which considered the production deficit caused by the drought of 2024, which, as part of a growing climatic pattern, intensified pressure on Mexican agricultural production and reduced yields in crops such as beans. This shock widened the structural deficit that Mexico covers with imports. This second model determined the optimal routes for distributing 286 411.31 t of imported beans, identifying the customs offices of Veracruz, Manzanillo and Nuevo Laredo as the main points of entry. The research concludes that the logistical optimization of domestic production and imports is crucial for the country’s food security.
Economic analysis of whitefly management in tomato cultivation
Husk tomato (Physalis ixocarpa Brot.) is an important crop in Mexico whose profitability is affected by pests; therefore, it is necessary to evaluate management alternatives that improve yield and reduce losses. The research was conducted in 2023 to evaluate the efficacy of chemical and natural plant protection products, applied individually and in combination with a plant extract (Aza-Direct® 1.2 CE), on fruit yield and profitability. Sixteen treatments were evaluated under a completely randomized block design with three replications (48 experimental units per trial). Each unit consisted of three 4 m-long furrows, 0.95 m apart, with plants spaced 0.4 m apart. The insecticides were applied 16 days after transplantation on three occasions, with seven-day intervals. Yield evaluation was performed up to 105 days after transplantation. An Anova and a Tukey test (α≤ 0.05) were performed using the SAS statistical software. The experiment was replicated twice. In experiment 1, the Minecto Duo®, Benevia® and Toretto® treatments, in combination with azadirachtin, showed yield increases of 48.8%, 46.7% and 32.7%, respectively, compared to the control without application. In experiment 2, Minecto Duo® with azadirachtin showed the highest increase, reaching 96.2% compared to the control. In the absence of the plant extract, the largest increases were recorded with Benevia® (88.5%) in experiment 2 and with Minecto Duo® (27.2%) in experiment 1. All treatments were economically viable, with return-on-investment ratios greater than $1.50.
Seed regulation: challenges and perspectives of Mexican law
In Mexico, the Federal Law on Seed Production, Certification and Trade was enacted in 2007; its main objective is to regulate the production, qualification and trade of seeds, seeking to organize and improve the national agricultural sector. This paper analyzes, through a documentary review, the impact of this legislation on the protection and conservation of native seeds in Mexico. Currently, the legal framework, by pointing to a model for the production and certification of ‘improved’ and commercial seeds, systematically marginalizes native varieties and peasant seed systems, which are essential for agricultural resilience and long-term food security. The study concludes that, despite its objectives, the law inadvertently contributes to the loss of agrobiodiversity and genetic erosion in the country. The lack of description guides and the limited inclusion of native varieties in the National Catalog of Plant Varieties leave an invaluable genetic and cultural heritage in a situation of vulnerability.
Cytokinins and pH on the in vitro culture of strawberry shoots
Conventional strawberry propagation is performed using runners, which may limit the number and health of plants. The present work assessed the effects of different culture media variants on shoot proliferation in vitro, shoot size and root formation. Seventy-seven variants of culture media were prepared with inorganic salts of the Murashige and Skoog (MS) formulation, different concentrations of two cytokinins, benzylaminopurine, BAP (0, 0.5 and 1 mg L-1) and thidiazuron TDZ (0, 0.5 and 1 mg L-1) and different pH levels (5, 5.5 and 5.8). Data was taken on the number of shoots, the number of leaves and root formation. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and Tukey’s test (0.05). The highest number of shoots (11), with up to 57 leaves, was obtained in the culture medium with 0.5 mg L-1 TDZ, 0 mg L-1 BAP and a pH of 5.5. The lowest numbers of shoots (2.3), with 18 leaves, were obtained in CM without TDZ, 0.5 mg L-1 BAP and a pH of 5.5. In environments with only BAP, the new shoots were taller and formed adventitious roots. TDZ inhibited root formation. It is concluded that the presence of TDZ in CMs stimulated more axillary buds to sprout, while BAP promoted the development of axillary buds but with a lesser effect than that of TDZ.
Albatros M2025: a new bread wheat variety for El Bajío, Guanajuato
The new bread wheat variety Albatros M2025 was formed at the Bajío Experimental Field of the National Institute of Forestry, Agricultural and Livestock Research. The segregating generations were subjected to the modified mass selection method. The yield assessment was conducted in 10 agricultural cycles from 2015-16 to 2024-25. Albatros M2025 was registered and protected in the National Catalog of Plant Varieties (CNVV, by its Spanish acronym) with the number TRI-214-030725. The Albatros M2025 variety is resistant to yellow rust, with a maximum severity of 2%, compared with older varieties such as Cortazar S94 and Luminaria F2012, which showed severity levels of 40% and 80%, respectively. Under normal irrigation, the new variety surpassed Cortazar S94, Alondra F2014, Faisán S2016 and Cisne F2016 by 19.4, 11.1, 9.7 and 1.6%, respectively. Under restricted irrigation (two irrigations), Albatros M2025 obtained a yield of 4 324 kg ha-1, which was 15, 12.4, 1.5 and 1.8% higher than that of Cortazar S94, Alondra F2014, Faisán S2016 and Cisne F2016, respectively. With three irrigations, it achieved a yield of 5 726 kg ha-1, higher than that of Alondra F2014, Cortazar S94, Faisán S2016 and Cisne F2016 by 8.3, 6.9, 1.4 and 0.1%, respectively. It has the allelic combinations of high-molecular-weight glutenins 0, 7+9 and 5+10 and is of medium-strong gluten.
Determination of the phytochemical quality and botanical origin of bee honey in La Comarca Lagunera
This study aimed to determine the phytochemical quality and botanical origin of bee honey in four municipalities of La Comarca Lagunera, Mexico. The municipalities of Torreón and Francisco I. Madero in the state of Coahuila, and Gómez Palacio and Lerdo in the state of Durango were considered in fixed beekeeping. Variables such as moisture, total soluble solids, color, pH, total phenolic compounds and total flavonoids were analyzed during the spring and summer harvesting seasons. The results indicated significant seasonal differences in moisture, total soluble solids and color, with higher moisture content and darker tonality in the summer season, which are associated with floral diversity and specific climatic conditions. The pH remained stable between seasons. Total phenolic compounds increased significantly in the summer season, whereas total flavonoids remained constant, suggesting that their concentration is less sensitive to seasonal changes. The mellisopalynological analysis revealed that the spring honey was monofloral, from mesquite (Prosopis juliflora) flowers, whereas the summer honey was multifloral, reflecting a greater diversity of nectariferous sources. The positive relationship between color and phenolic compounds and flavonoids indicates that darker honeys have greater chemical complexity and putatively, greater antioxidant potential.
Development of a thermal camera for RPAS used to monitor the water status of crops
Monitoring and evaluating crop water status is critical to optimizing water use and promoting sustainable agricultural production. The measurement of canopy temperature using thermal images has established itself as a reliable technique for estimating plant water status; however, its adoption is limited by the high cost of thermal cameras and unmanned aerial systems. Due to the above, a low-cost thermal camera was developed based on the 32 × 24 pixel MLX90640 infrared sensor and the Teensy 3.6 microcontroller, with storage capacity on a microSD card. The device was integrated into an unmanned aerial system and evaluated in a corn crop, with its measurements compared with those of a LI-COR LI-1600 porometer (accuracy ±0.5 °C). The thermal images were enhanced by bicubic interpolation and fused with RGB images to obtain images with a resolution of 640 × 480 pixels, which were then processed and segmented using binary images to isolate the pixels corresponding to the crop canopy temperature. Subsequently, the temperature values from the thermal images and the LI-COR LI-1600 porometer at each sampling site were compared, yielding a root mean square error of 0.74 °C. The results show that the developed thermal camera offers adequate accuracy, low cost (135 USD), and high spatial representativeness, positioning itself as a promising tool for thermal canopy monitoring in precision agriculture and efficient water resource management applications.
Logistical analysis of avocado distribution in the Mexican market: a linear programming approach
Fresh avocado consumption has increased in recent years, and Mexico has a supply deficit, which forces surplus states to redistribute their volumes to deficit markets. Because it is a perishable good, its distribution must be carried out efficiently, minimizing transportation times. This study develops a comprehensive methodology using the Simplex Method to plan the marketing of fresh avocados within the context of a trade balance for a closed market in 2022. Using information on production, population and fruit exports, modeling seeks to optimize the allocation of surplus product to deficit markets while minimizing logistical transportation costs. The proposed model analyzes routes and recommends the optimal quantities to be sent to each demanding market annually, in order to balance avocado supply and demand, thereby ensuring timely availability at the points of final consumption. The model determined a surplus supply of more than 1 110 000 t; the states of Jalisco, Michoacán, Morelos and Nayarit would supply demanding states, based on the transportation costs that optimize their distribution.
Impact of thidiazuron on floral induction, yield and fruit quality of Malus domestica Borkh.
In the Northeastern Sierra of Puebla, the ‘Criolla’ apple has remained in production; however, the cultivar cannot compete in markets with commercial cultivars, and its production has decreased due to climate change. With the aim of increasing the percentage of flower bud break and the production in apple trees of the ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Criolla’ cultivars, applications of the bud break promoter thidiazuron (TDZ) were carried out in Mexcalcuautla, Teziutlán, Puebla, during the 2022 and 2023 cycles. The trees received 400 and 600 ppm TDZ; a 2x3 split-strip arrangement was used, limited to six treatments in a randomized block experimental design; flower and vegetative bud break, inflorescence, fruit set, yield and physical and biochemical aspects of fruit were evaluated. Statistical analyses indicated that ‘Golden Delicious’ apples with 400 ppm TDZ presented higher flower bud break and yield. The physical quality of the fruits was better in ‘Golden Delicious’ with 400 ppm TDZ and ‘Criolla’ without TDZ since their fruits had a greater weight; in terms of the size and respiration rate of the apples, there were no differences between the treatments; nevertheless, firmness was higher in ‘Golden Delicious’ apples with 400 ppm TDZ than in the other treatments. The content of malic acid, ascorbic acid, pH, total soluble sugar content and starches were not affected by TDZ applications. It was concluded that applying TDZ at 400 ppm increased the percentage of flower bud break in ‘Golden Delicious’ apples and did not harm the physical and biochemical quality of the fruits.
Intrinsic and extrinsic attributes influencing the selection of dehydrated fruits and vegetables in Mexico
For dehydrated products to access new markets and for their production to generate economic development opportunities in rural production units, it is necessary to understand consumer demands. The objective was to analyze consumer behavior and identify the main attributes that lead consumers to make the decision to purchase dehydrated fruits and vegetables in Mexico in 2023. A survey was administered to 704 households nationwide and analyzed using Pearson correlation, cluster analysis and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). It was identified that the most valued attributes were flavor (46.28%), being a national product (40.13%), biodegradable packaging (38.04%), and supporting environmental conservation (35.42%). In addition, four groups of consumers were identified who differed in the attributes valued when purchasing dehydrated products; however, flavor was the most important across all groups. Companies that produce dehydrated fruit and vegetable products can create generic promotion strategies that highlight the attributes of health, environmental care, product quality and social responsibility.
Characterization of bean seeds from Ñäñho communities of Amealco, Querétaro
Beans are one of the main components of traditional Mexican gastronomy. Mexico is the center of origin, domestication, and diversification of Phaseolus vulgaris and P. coccineus. These are cultivated in the Ñäñho communities of Amealco, Querétaro, Mexico; however, their characteristics are unknown. The work aimed to determine inter and intraspecific seed diversity based on morphological characteristics and chemical composition. The study was conducted in 2024 at the Faculty of Natural Sciences of the Autonomous University of Querétaro. Twenty-one accessions (eight of P. coccineus and 13 of P. vulgaris) held in safekeeping at the Germplasm Bank-UAQ, which were collected in 2021 and 2022 in San Miguel Tlaxcaltepec, San Ildefonso and Santiago Mexquititlán, communities of the municipality of Amealco, Querétaro, were analyzed. Four quantitative morphological variables and 11 qualitative variables of each accession’s seeds were measured. In addition, chemical analysis was carried out, determining ash, moisture, crude protein, ethereal extract, crude fiber and nitrogen-free extract contents. Statistically significant differences were found in size, weight and protein contents between the two species. Intraspecific diversity was identified in the two species, mainly defined by seed color and size, as well as by percentages of ethereal extract and crude fiber. The Ñäñho communities of Amealco, Querétaro, present inter- and intraspecific diversity in both species, with a higher protein content in P. vulgaris than in P. coccineus.
Analysis of the factors determining coffee production in Mexico
Coffee is one of the most important agricultural crops in Mexico due to its economic and social relevance and because it generates income in rural areas, placing the country in the fourteenth place worldwide as a producer. In order to identify the economic factors that determine national coffee production, an econometric study was conducted in Mexico for the 1960-2024 period. A multiple linear regression model was applied based on time series obtained from official sources such as INEGI, SADER, OIC and Banxico. The dependent variable was coffee production, explained by the cultivated area, international prices, real input prices and production lags. The results show a high level of fit (R²= 0.974; Fcalculated= 207.72> Ftabulated= 2.15), indicating that the selected variables significantly explain the variations in production. It was found that the cultivated area, lagged production and two- and four-period lagged prices positively influence production, while international prices and some price lags have negative effects. In conclusion, Mexican coffee production depends mainly on the cultivated area and the behavior of production in previous years, reflecting the temporal persistence characteristic of this perennial crop.
Competitiveness of coffee production in Chiapas
In Mexico, most of the coffee-growing sector consists of peasant and indigenous families, and coffee is produced on small plots. For the state of Chiapas, coffee production is the main source of income, and the state ranks first nationally in coffee production and exports, being considered competitive; however, it has dropped to 12th place internationally. Regarding income, it should be a profitable production, with profits to meet the family needs of coffee growers. The objective was to evaluate the competitiveness and comparative advantage of small coffee producers in three regions of the state of Chiapas by analyzing their costs, income, and profitability in order to generate marketing alternatives that reduce costs and improve their profits. The hypothesis is that, in coffee production, producers obtain positive net income from their traditional production tasks, which determine competitiveness for the study regions. The research project was conducted using a mixed-methods (quantitative and qualitative) approach in the 2021-2022 production cycle in three regions of the state of Chiapas: San Juan Cancuc, Ángel Albino Corzo and Sitalá, applying the policy analysis matrix. The results indicate that the three study areas are profitable and competitive and that they have a comparative advantage. Coffee production for the study areas is profitable and competitive, has a comparative advantage and can be improved by considering the political intervention towards small producers for improvements in their crops, which will have positive effects on plant yield, thereby obtaining quality products that can be better paid and strengthening coffee growers to improve the ability to market their product and encourage the expansion of the production area.
Effect of vermicompost on Williams banana seedlings in a nursery
Vermicompost is an organic amendment of broad interest in sustainable agriculture, as it improves substrate fertility and exerts suppressive effects against pests and diseases. The objective of the present research was to determine the effect of vermicompost on the growth of banana seedlings in the nursery stage. Four treatments were established: T1 (100 g vermicompost + 650 g rice husks + 650 g sand); T2 (200 g vermicompost + 600 g rice husks + 600 g sand); T3 (300 g vermicompost + 500 g rice husks + 500 g sand); and T4 (control: 0 g vermicompost + 500 g rice husks + 300 g soil + 500 g sand). Parameters related to aerial and root growth were evaluated, including height, pseudostem diameter, leaf emission, chlorophyll content, root and corm weight, as well as root length. The results showed that vermicompost favored the development of seedling morphology, especially at the 300 g dose, which increased pseudostem robustness and leaf emission. These findings confirm the potential of vermicompost as a sustainable tool to strengthen the health, productivity and quality of banana plants in a nursery.
Zermeño S2025: a weak-gluten bread wheat variety for El Bajío, Guanajuato
The Zermeño S2025 variety was developed by the El Bajío Irrigated Wheat Genetic Improvement Program of the National Institute of Forestry, Agricultural and Livestock Research, and is registered in the National Catalog of Plant Varieties (CNVV) with the number TRI-218-030725. The Zermeño S2025 variety yielded 18.41% more than the Cortazar S94 variety under different planting dates and under deficit irrigation, it exceeded the Cortazar S94 variety by 11%. It is resistant to stripes or yellow rust and leaf rust. It is considered to be of excellent quality for the cookie industry. It is recommended for the region called El Bajío, which includes parts of the states of Guanajuato, Michoacán, Jalisco and Querétaro.
Fragata F2025: a new bread wheat variety for El Bajío, Guanajuato
Fragata F2025 is a new bread wheat variety developed for El Bajío, which was registered and protected in the National Catalog of Plant Varieties (CNVV, by its Spanish acronym) with the number TRI-216-030725. The cross that gave rise to it was carried out in the autumn-winter 2009-2010 cycle in Roque, Celaya, Guanajuato. The segregating generations were selected using the modified mass method. Its evaluation in yield trials began in the autumn-winter 2013-2014 cycle. Fragata F2025 is semi-dwarf and 90 cm tall; its vegetative cycle is intermediate, with 78 days to flowering and 125 days to physiological maturity. It is resistant to stripe or yellow rust, with only 5% severity, compared with 40, 60 and 100% exhibited by the Cortazar S94, Salamanca S75 and Luminaria F2012 varieties, respectively. In trials conducted across different planting dates, Fragata F2025 surpassed the control varieties Elia M2016 and Luminaria F2012 by 2.3 and 43.5%, respectively, and compared to Cortazar S94, the most planted variety in the El Bajío region, Fragata F2025 surpassed it by 15.3%. Under restricted irrigation, it was observed that, with two irrigations (0-55 days), the new variety obtained a yield of 4 519 kg ha-1, surpassing Cortazar S94 by 9.3%; with three irrigations (0-45 and 75 days), Fragata F2025 obtained a yield of 6 042 kg ha-1, surpassing the Cortazar S94 variety by 7.1%. Fragata F2025 has hard grains; its gluten is strong, with a W value of 313 x 10-4 J, and has a PL value of 6, which classifies the gluten of the new variety as strong tenacious.
Adaptation of Prunus serotina to rehabilitate degraded semi-arid soils
The rehabilitation of degraded soils in semi-arid areas requires woody species with high water-stress tolerance and the potential to provide ecosystem services. Prunus serotina has been characterized as tolerant to water stress and having low soil requirements, in addition to presenting rapid growth; however, there is little recent evidence on its initial performance in semi-arid conditions in Mexico. The objective was to evaluate the early adaptation of P. serotina in the field and to estimate its regional environmental suitability. The study was conducted from 2021 to 2022 in Nopaltepec (Tula River Basin, State of Mexico, Mexico). A plantation trial was established with survival and growth monitoring; survival was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier estimator and factors associated with mortality risk were analyzed using a Cox proportional hazards model. Environmental suitability was modeled with MaxEnt using bioclimatic and topographic variables; performance was verified using AUC and TSS and a suitability map was generated. Survival at 12 months was <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath>≈68.3% </m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Aptos',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 4.0pt; mso-text-raise: -4.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> and final diameter was associated with a lower risk of mortality <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath>(HR< 1)</m:oMath><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Aptos',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 4.0pt; mso-text-raise: -4.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> , suggesting that a greater allocation to structural reserves improves stress tolerance. In the SDMs, annual precipitation, thermal seasonality and altitude contributed significantly, delimiting areas with high suitability in and around the basin. It was concluded that P. serotina is a viable option for restoration initiatives in semi-arid environments, recommending selection based on initial size, protection against mechanical damage and drought, and establishment in favorable climatic windows.
Fertigation and Azospirillum in the nutrition of Agave angustifolia vitroplants in a nursery
Humanity seeks to increase the productivity and quality of crops that provide basic or economic benefits. The work aimed to evaluate the development of Agave angustifolia vitroplants fertigated with different nutrient aliquots and inoculated with Azospirillum brasilense from 2023 to 2024. In an experiment with a 3 × 2 × 3 factorial experimental design, the factors were: 1) initial plant size (small, medium, and large); 2) inoculation with the bacterium A. brasilense and without inoculation; and 3) concentrations of the Steiner nutrient solution (SN) (0, 75 and 100%). After 20 months, morphological characteristics and the amount of nutrients in the leaves were evaluated. Plants with a larger initial size maintained differences in growth compared to medium and small plants. The plants fertigated with 100% SN had a height of 51 cm (18.6%), a rosette diameter of 85.8 cm (25.8%) and a stem diameter of 9.6 cm (65.5%). Their largest leaf was 66 cm (13.7%), and their leaves contained 6 987 ppm N (9.6%), 1 775 ppm P (11%), and 3 093 ppm K (-25.8%) compared to plants irrigated only with water. The plants inoculated with the bacterium had more leaves, a larger rosette diameter, greater leaf length, greater root volume and greater stem and root dry weight than non-inoculated plants. The micropropagated A. angustifolia plants that were fertigated in a nursery and in parallel, inoculated with A. brasilense reached adequate sizes for transplantation in the field.
Asymmetries of the yellow and white corn markets in Mexico
The study focuses on analyzing the yellow and white corn markets in Mexico during the period 2010-2023 to understand the current situation of both grains and to generate a background that allows the development of studies differentiated by corn variety rather than treated as a homogeneous crop. Distinguishing between corn varieties allows us to understand the productive, price and trade dynamics, where white corn is intended for food diets and yellow corn for livestock consumption. This study aimed to estimate and identify asymmetries in competitiveness, trade balance and prices, using indices of self-sufficiency and import dependence, as well as the relative prices proposed by FAO and the World Bank. The results showed significant differences; on the one hand, yellow corn is dependent on imports, has limited domestic production and has relative prices that, although competitive as of 2020, show a loss of profitability; on the other hand, white corn has productive self-sufficiency and a strengthened national production; however, it is not present in the international market (exports and imports) and relative prices, while showing a growing trend in competitiveness, are also losing profitability. In conclusion, it is recommended that the State intervene through differentiated agricultural policies that include contract farming for yellow corn and technological improvements and fertilizer subsidies for white corn, in order to improve profitability and thereby promote national production.
Moisture levels and densities on bean yield
The research evaluated the effect of three soil moisture levels (30%, 70% and 100% of usable moisture) combined with two densities (30 and 40 plants m-2) on the yield of the bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) crop, variety Pinto Saltillo, under drip irrigation in Salinas de Hidalgo, San Luis Potosí. The design used was a 3 × 2 factorial design with three replications, totaling 18 experimental units. The variables analyzed included plant height, stem thickness, leaf dimensions, number of pods, plant dry weight, pod weight and grain yield. The treatment with 30% moisture (90 000 L ha-1 per irrigation) and 30 plants m-2 presented the best performance, reaching 47 cm in height, 15 pods per plant and a yield of 118 g m-2 (1 180 kg ha-1). Treatments with 70% (210 000 L ha-1 per irrigation) and 100% moisture (300 000 L ha-1 per irrigation), together with higher density, showed negative effects due to intraspecific competition. There were no significant differences in yield across moisture levels, even when irrigation volume was doubled or tripled. Significant correlations were identified between height and number of pods (r= 0.716), pod weight and grain yield (r= 0.987) and leaf dimensions (r= 0.887). The results indicated that moderate water stress and adequate density favor bean development and allow efficient water use. The study provided technical evidence to optimize water management and agronomic practices in semi-arid regions.