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Origin, Evolution and Spread of Crop Buckwheat WEI YiMin, ZHOU MeiLiang, TANG Yu Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4305-4316.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.001 Abstract （1463）   HTML （47）    PDF （509KB）（654）       Knowledge map    Save China is one of the four major centers of agricultural origin in the world, where two distinct agricultural systems were established: the rice-based system represented by the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, and the dryland farming system represented by the Yellow River basin. Historical records and archaeological evidence indicate that as early as the Shang Dynasty, oracle bone inscriptions already mentioned crops such as millet (Setaria italica), broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum), wheat, rice, and soybeans. During the pre-Qin period, the concept of the ‘Five Grains’ was established, and in The Book of Songs (Shijing), the broader term ‘Hundred Grains’ also appeared as a general reference to food crops. However, it is noteworthy that buckwheat, a crop native to China, has long been absent from these documented grain systems. This omission is inconsistent with the fact that buckwheat is an indigenous Chinese crop with high genetic diversity, significant local variation, and a long history of cultivation and domestication in cold mountainous regions. This study conducts a systematic review of the literature related to the origin, evolution, and spread of buckwheat, integrating recent findings in archaeobotany and genetic diversity analysis. Following internationally accepted principles for identifying crop origin centers, and drawing on historical texts, biological characteristics, and distribution patterns, the study presents comprehensive evidence supporting the hypothesis that southwestern China-particularly Yunnan, Sichuan, Guizhou, and the southern fringe of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau-is the center of origin, genetic diversity, and domestication for Fagopyrum species. There are 23 species of Fagopyrum identified in China, including three cultivated species-common buckwheat (F. esculentum), tartary buckwheat (F. tataricum), and golden buckwheat (F. cymosum)-and 20 wild species, the majority of which are concentrated in southwestern China. This region is not only the native habitat of the ancestral subspecies of common and tartary buckwheat (F. esculentum ssp. ancestrale and F. tataricum ssp. potanini), but also the area with the richest diversity of Fagopyrum, strongly indicating its status as the origin center. Furthermore, molecular markers and phylogenetic studies confirm close genetic relationships between wild and cultivated buckwheat species in this region, providing key evidence for reconstructing domestication pathways. With advancements in modern research, buckwheat has gained recognition not only for its short growth cycle, broad adaptability, and resilience to poor soils and cold climates, making it suitable for cultivation in remote and mountainous areas, but also for its grain's rich content of proteins, flavonoids, and functional sugar alcohols. As a highly promising functional coarse grain crop, buckwheat is particularly suited to the development of characteristic agriculture in central and western China. It holds significant potential for ecological sustainability, nutritional health, and high-value agricultural development, and is expected to play an important role in China’s national nutrition strategy and food diversity conservation. This study provides theoretical and empirical evidence to support the scientific designation of China as the center of origin and domestication of buckwheat, laying a solid foundation for future work in germplasm conservation, variety improvement, and industrial development. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The Concept, Content and Research Progress of Functional Agriculture LIU JinDong, WANG YaMei, WANG YiCun, YU HaiXia, TIAN JiChun Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (23): 4813-4824.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.23.001 Abstract （1331）   HTML （58）    PDF （556KB）（684）       Knowledge map    Save Agriculture is the source of human food ingredients and the foundation for survival and development. Modern agriculture meets the demand for sufficient food, it has also led to diet-related diseases such as hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and hyperglycemia due to unbalanced diets. After the “Second International Conference on Nutrition (ICN2)” jointly held by the FAO and WTO in 2014, functional agriculture research aimed at meeting people’s nutritional and health needs rapidly developed both domestically and internationally, China has issued guiding documents such as the “National Nutrition Plan (2017-2030)” and the “Healthy China 2030” planning outline. This paper systematically reviews the background of functional agriculture emergence and focuses on the functionalization of staple crops to discuss the research progress in functional agriculture of the world. It also summarizes the key research areas of functional agriculture, including exploration of functional components in germplasm resources, breeding of new functional varieties, agronomic enhancement measures, and development and promotion of health foods. On this basis, in accordance with the requirements of the “China Food and Nutrition Development Outline (2025-2030)” proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the National Health Commission, and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in February 2025, four suggestions are put forward: Strengthening top-level government design, establishing major projects for staple crop functionalization, accelerating the construction of standard systems, and improving intellectual property protection for varieties. These suggestions aim to provide theoretical support and practical paths for implementing China large-scale agriculture and grain strategy and ensuring national nutrition and health. This paper offers valuable insights for establishing a functional agricultural industry system with Chinese characteristics. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Comprehensive Evaluation of Salt Tolerance at the Seedling Stage and Screening of Tolerant Germplasm in Adzuki Bean (Vigna angularis) CHEN TianXiao, CAO Rong, SONG QianNan, HU LiangLiang, WANG SuHua, WANG LiXia, CHENG XuZhen, CHEN HongLin Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4317-4332.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.002 Abstract （1099）   HTML （57）    PDF （2935KB）（571）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Adzuki bean (Vigna angularis) is an important legume crop in China, yet, its production is severely constrained by soil salinity. This study aimed to systematically identify and evaluate the salt tolerance of a large-scale adzuki bean germplasm collection to provide elite genetic resources and a theoretical basis for the genetic improvement of salt-tolerant adzuki bean cultivars. 【Method】A total of 398 adzuki bean accessions were evaluated in a hydroponic system under 100 mmol·L-1 NaCl stress a concentration determined as suitable for screening in preliminary experiments. The salt injury index and 10 root morphological traits of each accession were measured post-treatment. A comprehensive salt tolerance value (D-value) for each accession was calculated using a combination of principal component analysis (PCA) combined with the subordinate function method. Based on the D-value, all accessions were systematically evaluated and classified into different salt tolerance grades. Subsequently, differences in salt tolerance among three germplasm types (cultivars, landraces, and wild accessions) were compared. Finally, stepwise regression analysis was employed to identify key indicators for evaluating seedling salt tolerance and to construct a simplified evaluation model. 【Result】Salt stress significantly inhibited root growth in adzuki bean, but extensive genetic variation was observed among the accessions. PCA effectively reduced the 10 root traits to three independent principal components, accounting for a cumulative 88.76% of the total variation. According to the criteria of a comprehensive salt tolerance value (D-value) and salt tolerance grade, a group of highly tolerant accessions at the seedling stage, such as B552 and B533, were identified. Comparative analysis indicated that wild accessions and landraces exhibited stronger seedling stage salt tolerance potential than cultivars, with wild accessions showing particularly outstanding tolerance. Stepwise regression analysis identified the salt tolerance coefficients of five key traits, including root volume, root fresh weight, root dry weight, average root diameter, and number of root crossing as the key indicators. Based on these indicators, an optimal regression equation with a very high coefficient of determination was established. 【Conclusion】This study systematically evaluated the salt tolerance of a large-scale adzuki bean germplasm collection at the seedling stage. It not only identified a group of elite salt-tolerant accessions, but also established a simplified and efficient comprehensive evaluation system for seedling salt tolerance in adzuki bean based on five key root traits. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Green Control of Major Cowpea Pests and Fusarium Wilt: Research and Practical Innovations WU ShengYong, XIE Wen, SHI CaiHua, PAN HuiPeng, CHEN JunYu, KONG XiangYi Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4357-4360.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.005 Abstract （1055）   HTML （20）    PDF （271KB）（659）       Knowledge map    Save Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Genetic Diversity Analysis of Phenotypic Traits of 244 Forage Oat Germplasm Resources CHEN CaiJin, MA Lin, JIANG QingXue, LIU JinHui, MIAO Tong, ZHANG ZhiPeng, MENG Xiang, MA XiaoRan, ZHOU XinYue, ZHANG Jian, LIU WenHui, WANG XueMin Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (23): 4825-4836.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.23.002 Abstract （1020）   HTML （68）    PDF （3944KB）（503）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】 To analyze the genetic diversity relationship of phenotypic traits in forage oat germplasm resources worldwide, conduct Cluster analysis and Comprehensive evaluation, explore excellent materials, and provide Material basis and Technical support for Germplasm creation and Breeding utilization of forage oats. 【Method】 Using 244 collected domestic and foreign forage oat germplasm as experimental materials, they were planted in Guyuan City, Ningxia from 2023 to 2024, and 11 Phenotypic traits including plant height, stem diameter, tiller number, leaf number, leaf length, leaf width, ear length, whorled layers number, number of spikelets, fresh weight, and hay weight were systematically measured. Multiple evaluation methods such as correlation analysis, principal component analysis, membership function, and hierarchical cluster analysis were comprehensively used for multi-dimensional evaluation. 【Result】 Phenotypic variant analysis showed that the coefficient of variation of the 11 traits ranged from 12.11% to 42.69%, among which tiller number, leaf length, and number of spikelets had higher coefficient of variation, which were 42.69%, 32.90%, and 32.77% respectively; The genetic diversity index ranged from 1.408 to 2.077, among which number of spikelets, stem diameter, and hay weight had higher genetic diversity index, which were 2.077, 2.075, and 2.074 respectively; Correlation analysis revealed that there were 41 pairs of significant or extremely significant relationships among the 11 traits, and the indicators with higher correlation with hay weight of forage oats were fresh weight, leaf number, leaf width, whorled layers number, plant height, and number of spikelets in sequence; The principal component analysis showed that the contribution rate of six principal components were extracted, which were 28.980%, 14.833%, 12.494%, 9.556%, 7.495%, and 6.850% in sequence, with the Cumulative contribution rate reaching 80.209%; Hierarchical cluster analysis divided the 244 germplasm resources into 5 Groups. Among them, the germplasm resources in Group Ⅱ had thick stem diameter, long ear length, and many whorled layers number, belonging to lodging-resistant or high yield materials; The germplasm in Group Ⅲ and Ⅳ had high plant height, long leaf length, and many tiller number, belonging to high yield forage materials; The germplasm in Group Ⅴ had multiple leaves, wide Leaf width, many number of spikelets, and high fresh and hay weight, belonging to high-quality forage type and high grain yield materials. The Comprehensive phenotypic evaluation value (F value) of germplasm resources was obtained through analytical methods such as membership function, and 20 accessions of Core germplasm resources with excellent comprehensive traits were screened out. 【Conclusion】 The results revealed that the 244 forage oat germplasm resources possess rich phenotypic genetic variation and diversity; Cluster analysis divided the 244 germplasm resources into 5 different groups, which can be selected and utilized according to the excellent characteristics of different germplasm resources and breeding objectives; 20 accessions of forage oat germplasm resources with excellent comprehensive traits, such as As166, As129, As163, As131 and As80 were screened out using F value. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Research on Ecological Protection Strategy for Comprehensive Utilization of Saline-Alkali Soil in China LÜ GuoHua, WANG QingSuo, SONG JiaShen, LI YuYi, MEI XuRong Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (20): 4047-4053.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.20.002 Abstract （981）   HTML （62）    PDF （370KB）（472）       Knowledge map    Save This study provided a systematic review of the ecological issues arising from the development of saline-alkali land in China. These included secondary salinization, the formation of groundwater depression cones, wetland shrinkage and functional degradation, and reduction in natural vegetation, as well as high remediation costs and pollution risks. In addition, it clarified the technological development pathways for the comprehensive utilization of saline-alkali land. These pathways encompassed four major directions: targeted strategies under a systematic management approach, cost-effective remediation under new ecological requirements, dual-force development through land-crop synergy, and specialized agriculture aligned with the broader concept of food. Furthermore, the study proposed an integrated strategy to strengthen the comprehensive management of saline-alkali lands, including emphasizing zonal rehabilitation of saline-alkali farmland, establishing a collaborative innovation system, and advancing fundamental theories and key technologies for sustainable utilization. It also recommended developing a tiered land-use model to support pilot programs for reserve resources and cultivated land, promoting specialized agriculture, enhancing productive capacity, advancing water-adapted planting, fostering innovation in water-saving agricultural technology, and strengthening ecological monitoring and impact assessment. This study provided the theoretical foundation and strategic support for ecological protection in the comprehensive utilization of saline-alkali land in China. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Control Effect of New Insect-Repellent Screen on Megalurothrips usitatus and Its Impact on the Microclimate in the Field ZHAO HanYang, LI YiHong, XU ShuGuang, WU YueMin, WU ShengYong Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4393-4404.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.009 Abstract （953）   HTML （8）    PDF （1202KB）（551）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】The objective of this study is to evaluate the control effect of a new type of insect-repellent screen on Megalurothrips usitatus, and to clarify its effect on the microclimate environment in the field, so as to provide new technical support for the control of cowpea thrips. 【Method】The barrier effects of a new type of insect-repellent screen and conventional insect-proof screen on M. usitatus were investigated under laboratory and field conditions. Light intensity, ventilation, temperature, and humidity were measured using the illuminometer, anemometer, and thermo-hygrometer, respectively, under three treatments of insect-repellent screen, conventional insect-proof screen and open field. The effect of insect-repellent screen on the field microclimate was further analyzed based on the observed data. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GS-MS) was employed to detect the types, contents of insect-repellent volatile compounds in the screen after two months of field application. 【Result】The laboratory results showed that the barrier rate of the new insect-repellent screen cage against M. usitatus adults generally exhibited a slowly declining trend within one month. The barrier rate of the insect-repellent screen was 52.81%-67.11%, significantly higher than that of the conventional insect-proof screen (46.32%-51.23%). Field results indicated that within one month of investigation during the flowering and pod-setting stage of cowpeas, the adult populations of M. usitatus in the insect-repellent screen, conventional insect-proof screen (both with a porosity of 69.40%), and open field were 4.3-7.4, 6.2-11.1 and 7.8-14.2 individuals/flower, respectively. The overall trend of population in the insect-repellent screen remained at a lower level, significantly lower than that in the conventional insect-proof screen and open-field cowpeas. No significant differences were observed among the three treatments (insect-repellent screen, conventional insect-proof screen, and open field) in terms of light intensity (11 900-73 800, 11 400-73 100, and 12 000- 73 900 lx, respectively), wind speed (0.16-1.38, 0.12-1.39, and 0.20-1.47 m·s-1, respectively), daily mean temperature (18.73-25.75, 19.50-25.62, and 19.51-26.00 ℃, respectively), and daily mean relative humidity (65.00%-72.15%, 66.32%-73.78%, and 62.10%-69.66%, respectively). During a single day at the full blooming stage of cowpea, the temperature and relative humidity under all three treatments exhibited an inverted “U”-shaped and a positive “U”-shaped trend, respectively. Specifically, the temperature reached the highest value in the afternoon (13: 00-16: 00), while the relative humidity dropped to the lowest value in the afternoon (14: 00-15: 00). GC-MS analysis revealed that the volatile components of the insect-repellent screen contained compounds with high similarity to menthol and limonene, with similarity scores of 79.50% and 80.00%, and the volatilization rates after two months of application were 98.47% and 92.86%, respectively. 【Conclusion】The barrier effect of the new insect-repellent screen against M. usitatus is better than conventional insect-proof screen, showing dual effects of physical barrier and biological repellence, and has negligible impact on the field microclimate environment. The development and application of the new insect-repellent screen provides a novel approach for integrated control of cowpea thrips. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of Acoustic Interference on the Courtship Behavior of Liriomyza sativae XING GuangTao, LÜ BaoQian, WU ShengYong, WU JianTao, ZHOU Ying, GE Jin, ZHANG QiKai Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4372-4381.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.007 Abstract （945）   HTML （9）    PDF （1827KB）（572）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】The objective of this study is to investigate the disruptive effect of acoustic stimuli on the courtship behavior of Liriomyza sativae and its application potential in green pest control. 【Method】Acoustic signals of varying frequencies were emitted by directional loudspeakers. Laser vibrometry coupled with behavioral video recording was employed to measure vibrational responses of cowpea leaves and courtship and mating parameters of L. sativae (latency, frequency, duration, mating success rate). The laboratory population control trial of L. sativae larvae was carried out by using 200 Hz acoustic frequency, and the population density change of L. sativae and effect on cowpea quality (soluble sugar, soluble protein and vitamin C content) were analyzed by setting sound source distance gradient with spatiotemporal dynamic monitoring in the field. 【Result】External acoustic stimulation induced differential leaf vibrational responses, disrupting L. sativae courtship. Cowpea leaves exhibited the strongest vibrational response within 200-300 Hz with peak vibration velocity of ±4 mm·s-1. The 200 Hz frequency significantly prolonged male courtship latency ((15.92±3.99) min vs. control (5.24±1.63) min, P<0.05) and duration ((44.50±2.68) s vs. control (20.22±1.97) s, P<0.05), increased male courtship attempts ((13.20±2.58) times vs. control (5.40±1.21) times, P<0.05), and reduced mating success rate to 20% (control: 60%). Markov chain analysis confirmed greatest behavioral disruption in the mid-frequency band (200-300 Hz), specifically blocking the critical “male courtship→female response” transition pathway. Laboratory trials demonstrated 42.14% larval number reduction under 200 Hz acoustic treatment ((57.67±3.18) individuals vs. control (99.67±9.61) individuals, P<0.05). Field data indicated that with the increase of audio playback time, the mining density in near-source zones (0-25 m) decreased significantly, though efficacy diminished in far-source areas (25-70 m). No significant adverse effects occurred on cowpea quality parameters (soluble sugar, soluble protein and vitamin C content). 【Conclusion】The 200 Hz acoustic frequency disrupts L. sativae courtship signaling by maximizing cowpea leaf vibrations, effectively suppressing mating behavior and population growth without compromising crop quality. This technique provides an innovative perspective for developing environmentally-friendly pest control strategies. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Characterization of Antioxidant Activities in Sesame Leaves and Screening of High Antioxidant Germplasm LUO ZiShu, ZHANG YiJia, ZHOU Rong, ZHANG YanXin, ZHOU Ting, YOU Jun, WANG LinHai Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (19): 3814-3824.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.19.002 Abstract （921）   HTML （17）    PDF （1168KB）（389）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Flavonoids and polyphenols are the main natural antioxidant active components in plants, which are abundant in sesame leaves. Analyzing the contents of antioxidant active components such as total flavonoids and total polyphenols in sesame leaves at different growth stages and positions, as well as the changes in antioxidant activities, and screening sesame germplasm with high antioxidant active components in leaves, will provide theoretical basis and excellent materials for the development and utilization of sesame leaves.【Method】The extraction process of total flavonoids and total polyphenols from leaves was optimized by a one-way test, and total flavonoids, total polyphenols, and antioxidant activity (DPPH scavenging ratio) were determined in sesame leaves at different growth stages and leaf positions, as well as leaves of 154 sesame germplasm.【Result】The optimal conditions for the extraction of total flavonoids and total polyphenols from the leaves were: 80% ethanol as the extraction solvent, solid-liquid ratio of 1:50 (g·mL-1), oscillation time of 4 min, oscillation frequency of 1 250 r/min and ultrasonic time of 35 min. With the process of sesame growth and development, the total flavonoid content of sesame leaves increased rapidly from the initial-bloom stage to the full-bloom stage, and reached the peak at the mature stage. The total polyphenols content generally showed a continuous increasing trend, slightly decreased at the final flowering period, but the difference was not significant. The antioxidant activity generally shows a continuous increasing trend. At mature stage, the total flavonoid content and antioxidant activity in leaves at different leaf positions showed a gradient distribution of middle > lower > upper, while the total polyphenols showed upper > middle > lower. The total flavonoid content in the leaves of 154 sesame germplasm ranged from 20.94 to 57.43 mg CAE·g-1, the total polyphenol content ranged from 16.04 to 65.75 mg GAE·g-1, and the antioxidant activity ranged from 54.09% to 80.45%. Cluster analysis divided 154 materials into four groups, group Ⅰ materials had relatively high total flavonoid and total polyphenol contents and the three indexes were relatively balanced; group Ⅱ had high values of antioxidant activity; group Ⅲ had mostly median levels of total flavonoid and total polyphenol contents and low antioxidant activity; and group Ⅳ had low values of overall antioxidant indexes. Five excellent leaf germplasm with outstanding antioxidant activity indexes were screened: Sesame in Xinjiang E’min, White Sesame in Shaanxi Weinan, White Sesame in Shaanxi Baoji, 68·544 in Nicaragua and K2 in Guinea, respectively.【Conclusion】The differences in antioxidant activity indexes of sesame leaves at different growth stages and different leaf positions were systematically revealed. Sesame leaves harvested from the middle position at mature stage had the highest content of antioxidant substances and antioxidant activity. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Investigation on Species Composition and Damage Dynamics of Cowpea Pests in Hainan Winter-Spring Cropping System (2020-2025) WU MingYue, FU QiuMei, HUANG ShengLin, LUO Feng, LIU Yong, SHI CaiHua, ZHANG YouJun, KONG XiangYi, XIE Wen Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4451-4466.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.014 Abstract （907）   HTML （9）    PDF （2459KB）（439）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】This study aimed to identify the species composition and population dynamics of major pests in the main cowpea-producing areas of Hainan, and to evaluate the effects of different planting patterns and cultivation managements on the pest community structure, thus providing a theoretical basis for developing precise control strategies. 【Method】Systematic investigations were conducted on the pest species and dominant pests on cowpeas during the winter-spring seasons from 2020 to 2025 in Hainan cowpea planting areas, using plant visual inspection and colored sticky trap methods. The population dynamics of pests were compared under different management practices (non-pesticide-treated and conventionally pesticide-treated) and different cultivation modes (open-field, semi-enclosed, and fully-enclosed). 【Result】(1) A total of 16 pest species infesting cowpea were identified in Hainan Province, which belonged to 6 orders, 9 families. In non-pesticide-treated cowpea fields, a higher diversity of pests was observed (6 orders, 9 families, 16 species), with the dominant species being Megalurothrips usitatus, Frankliniella intonsa, Liriomyza trifolii, Spodoptera exigua, and Aphis craccivora. In contrast, conventional pesticide-treated fields exhibited reduced pest diversity (4 orders, 5 families, 10 species), with thrips and leafminers remaining as the predominant pests. (2) Regardless of pesticide application, thrips and leafminers were present throughout the entire cowpea growth cycle. Thrips populations were significantly higher, showing low numbers at the seedling stage, a continuous increase during vine elongation, and multiple population peaks during the flowering stage coinciding with bloom. Leafminers were abundant from January to March in 2021, but caused only sporadic damage during 2024-2025. (3) Under both open-field and semi-enclosed planting modes, the pest species composition was similar, primarily consisting of thrips and leafminers, with M. usitatus as the dominant thrips species and L. trifolii as the dominant leafminer species. Thrips outbreaks generally occurred around January of the following year, while spider mite outbreaks were occasionally observed in semi-enclosed planting mode in certain years. Compared with open-field and semi-enclosed modes, the species of pests in the fully-enclosed planting mode were relatively few, and only thrips accounted for approximately 66% of the total pest population. During the later growth stages under higher temperatures (i.e., January to March of the following year), populations of Bemisia tabaci and Tetranychus urticae increased significantly. In conclusion, thrips caused the most severe damage throughout the cowpea growth cycle, significantly affecting both yield and quality. In some years, leafminers and T. urticae also inflicted considerable damage, while other pests were less detrimental. 【Conclusion】There are many kinds of pests in cowpea in Hainan, among which thrips are the most serious. The occurrence of pests in open-field planting mode is more serious, and the damage of pests in net-enclosed field is relatively light. The net-enclosed mode can effectively block some pests, but the fully-enclosed planting mode is affected by the micro-environment such as high temperature and high humidity, and the probability of outbreak of B. tabaci, T. urticae and other pests in the late growth stage of cowpea is large. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Comparison of the Predation Ability of Four Species of Orius Against Megalurothrips usitatus, Tetranychus urticae and Aphis craccivora DAI XiaoYan, ZHAO JinFeng, WANG RuiJuan, SU Long, WANG Yu, CHENG WenHua, XU QianQian, ZHAO Shan, ZHENG Li, LIU Yan, ZHAI YiFan Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4421-4428.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.011 Abstract （905）   HTML （8）    PDF （465KB）（429）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】The purpose of this study is to identify the dominant species of commercial Orius species (O. nagaii, O. sauteri, O. minutus and O. strigicollis) against the main pest of cowpea Megalurothrips usitatus, Tetranychus urticae and Aphis craccivora, and to provide a scientific basis for field demonstration and commercial production of Orius species. 【Method】The single-headed female adult of a single species of Orius was used to test the predation, functional responses and search effects of different densities of M. usitatus (10, 20, 30, 40 /tube), T. urticae (5, 10, 15, 20 /dish) and A. craccivora young nymphs (5, 10, 15, 20 /dish) under indoor conditions. Holling II equation was used to analyze the predation ability and biological control potential of four Orius species on three pests. 【Result】The daily predation of four Orius species increased with the increase of the density of pests (M. usitatus, T. urticae and A. craccivora). The predatory functional response of the four Orius species conformed to the Holling II model equation, and the search effect of the four Orius species gradually decreased with the increase of prey density. While hunting M. usitatus, the transient attack rate (a′) (0.861), predation ability (a′/Th) (661.932), maximum daily predation amount (1/Th) (769.231) and processing time of single prey (Th) (0.001 d) of O. nagaii were higher than those of the other three species. While hunting T. urticae, the processing time of single prey (0.004 d), predation ability (260.617) and maximum daily predation amount (285.714) of O. nagaii were also higher than those of the other three species. There was no significant difference in the predation ability of the four Orius species on A. craccivora. 【Conclusion】At room temperature, compared with the other three Orius species, O. nagaii has better predation ability on M. usitatus and T. urticae, but the four species have little difference in predation on A. craccivora. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Genome-Wide Association Study on Spike Architecture Traits and Elite Haplotype Mining in Winter Wheat LI Ming, CHENG YuKun, BAI Bin, LEI Bin, GENG HongWei Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (18): 3583-3597.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.18.002 Abstract （884）   HTML （30）    PDF （5870KB）（304）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Spike-related traits constitute a key factor influencing wheat yield. This study conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on wheat spike-related traits to identify significant loci controlling these traits, thereby providing theoretical references for research on genetic improvement of wheat spike-related traits. 【Method】Using a panel of 261 winter wheat varieties (lines), we measured spike-related phenotypic traits and performed genome-wide association studies (GWAS) with the wheat 90K SNP array, employing the Fixed and Random Model Circulating Probability Unification (Farm CPU) model. Stable and significant loci identified through this analysis were further subjected to haplotype analysis. 【Result】Under three environmental conditions, all 11 panicle-related traits exhibited extensive phenotypic variation, with coefficients of variation (CV) ranging from 3.63 to 64.29. The heritability estimates for these traits varied between 0.42 and 0.84. Highly significant differences (P<0.001) were observed among genotype, environment, and genotype × environment interactions. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified 171 loci significantly associated with the 11 traits (P<0.001), including 20 pleiotropic loci detected in two or more environments. These loci were associated with eight panicle traits: panicle length (3 loci), peduncle length (7 loci), sterile spikelet number (1 locus), fertile spikelet number (2 loci), total spikelet number (2 loci), grains per panicle (1 locus), grain weight per panicle (2 loci), and thousand-grain weight (2 loci). The phenotypic contribution rates of these loci ranged from 0.95% to 18.54%. A pleiotropic locus (Ra_c10072_677) significantly associated with both grain weight per panicle and grains per panicle was identified on chromosome 7B, demonstrating phenotypic contribution rates ranging from 2.62% to 6.16%. The marker wsnp_Ex_rep_c69639_68590556, which showed consistent association with peduncle length across two or more environmental conditions (explaining 5.94% of the genetic variation), was selected for haplotype analysis. Three haplotypes (Hap1, Hap2, and Hap3) were characterized, with distribution frequencies of 77.40%, 13.70%, and 8.80%, respectively. Phenotypic analysis revealed that 261 winter wheat cultivars (lines) carrying haplotype Hap3 (30.58 cm) exhibited significantly greater peduncle length (P<0.001) compared to those with Hap1 (28.67 cm) and Hap2 (27.49 cm). The haplotype distribution frequencies showed significant geographic divergence: Hap1 predominated in the Northern Winter Wheat Region, Hap2 was more prevalent in the Huang-Huai Winter Wheat Region, while Hap3 displayed no substantial frequency (>5%) across all winter wheat regions. For stably detected loci across three environments, candidate gene mining identified four genes associated with panicle development. These genes, functionally annotated as encoding MYB transcription factors and F-box domain-containing proteins, represent key candidates influencing panicle architecture. 【Conclusion】The spike traits of wheat exhibited significant variation across different genotypes. A total of twenty stably associated loci were identified across two or more environments. Three distinct haplotypes significantly associated with the peduncle length were detected on chromosome 7B, and four candidate genes potentially related to spike traits were screened out. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Analysis of Annual Population Dynamics of Megalurothrips usitatus on Cowpea in Hainan HUANG ShengLin, XU YiBo, KONG XiangYi, SHI CaiHua, JIAO XiaoGuo, ZHANG YouJun, WU MingYue, XIE Wen Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4439-4450.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.013 Abstract （835）   HTML （8）    PDF （693KB）（358）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Megalurothrips usitatus is a persistent pest in major cowpea production areas in southern China such as Hainan. Its continuous infestation has led to a reduction in cowpea yields and quality, which has become a key biotic factor constraining the sustainable development of the industry. This study aims to provide theoretical support for cowpea thrips disaster early warning and control decision-making in tropical and subtropical cowpea-growing regions of China by systematically monitoring the annual pattern of M. usitatus in the main cowpea production area of Sanya, Hainan. 【Method】The population size of M. usitatus on host plants including Fabaceae, Cucurbitaceae, and Poaceae in Yazhou District, Sanya City, Hainan Province was investigated using the sticky trap method: August 2021 to July 2022 (the first year) and October 2023 to October 2024 (the second year). Based on the survey data, population dynamics of M. usitatus were analyzed through graphical visualization. Furthermore, by comparing population dynamic changes of M. usitatus across different years and seasons, the occurrence patterns and host transition behavior of M. usitatus on cowpea and other host plants were further analyzed. 【Result】(1) M. usitatus could cause damage on cowpeas throughout the year, and at all stages of growth. In the first year, the occurrence peaks of M. usitatus on cowpea and non-cowpea host plants occurred in winter and spring (December and January of the following year), which coincided with the peak planting period of cowpeas. In the second year, the occurrence peaks of M. usitatus on cowpeas occurred in summer and autumn (June and September), corresponding to the sporadic planting period of cowpeas. Its occurrence peaks on non-cowpea host plants occurred from early March to late April, coinciding with the large-scale crop termination period of cowpeas (pulling up seedlings after harvest). (2) M. usitatus exhibited a wide range of hosts, with significantly higher population densities on leguminous host plants (such as cowpeas, green beans, peanuts, and sesbania) than on non-leguminous host plants. (3) Studies on thrips host transfer patterns found that M. usitatus primarily infested cowpeas during the concentrated planting period of cowpea. Once cowpeas undergo large-scale crop termination (pulling up seedlings after harvest), it was likely to be transferred to the surrounding host plant plots such as eggplant, sesbania to conceal its infestation. 【Conclusion】In the Sanya region, the population density of M. usitatus on Fabaceae host plants was significantly higher than that on non-Fabaceae host plants. This pest can occur year-round in fields of cowpea, eggplant, and weeds, and exhibits the characteristic of shifting hosts to cause damage. The population dynamics of M. usitatus on cowpea and other plants show inter-annual and seasonal variations. Based on the annual population dynamic patterns of thrips in cowpea fields, it is recommended to conduct field sanitation before cowpea planting, including the removal of surrounding Fabaceae crops and weeds. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of Diets with Different Nutritional Levels on Maternal-Infant Integrated Production Performance and Rumen Microorganisms of Double-Lamb Shanbei White Cashmere Goats JIA ZiCheng, QIN BingYu, MA CaiYing, DU Yong, LIU TongGao, XUE RuiLin, WANG XiaoLong, ZHOU ShiWei Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2026, 59 (3): 668-686.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.03.014 Abstract （815）   HTML （11）    PDF （1413KB）（1098）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Through studying the effects of diets with different nutritional levels on the production performance, serum biochemical parameters, milk composition, rumen microbial community structure and function, and lamb growth performance of Shaanbei white cashmere goats during the twin-bearing lactation period, this research aimed to provide the scientific evidence for establishing a precision nutrition supply technical system for twin-bearing lactating Shaanbei white cashmere goats, which would help reduce breeding costs, enhance economic efficiency, and improve the sustainable development capacity of the Shaanbei white cashmere goat industry. 【Method】This investigation established a precision feeding paradigm for twin-bearing Shaanbei white cashmere ewes during peak lactation through a multifactorial experimental design. Thirty-two genetically uniform primiparous ewes (2-3 years old, (46.60±1.45) kg) were stratified by parity and body weight, then randomly allocated to four dietary treatments using a completely randomized design. The ewes were respectively fed the basal diet (CON group), low nutritional level diet with a nutritional level of 112% of the basal diet (LEL group), medium nutritional level diet with a nutritional level of 124% of the basal diet (MEL group), and high nutritional level diet with a nutritional level of 136% of the basal diet (HEL group). Trial sheep were weighed for initial body weight (IBM) and final body weight (FBW) under fasting conditions before morning feeding at 0 and 90 days of the trial. Daily feed provided and residual feed were recorded during the trial period to calculate body weight gain (BWG), average daily gain (ADG), and dry matter intake (DMI). For ewes, estrus detection was performed twice daily starting from 45 days postpartum to record estrus timing. Pregnancy diagnosis was conducted via rectal ultrasonography 30 days after mating to calculate pregnancy rates. Lambs were weighed every two weeks after birth, and weaning days were recorded to calculate lamb ADG. From each group, 5 ewes were randomly selected to collect fasting venous blood samples at 0, 30, and 60 days postpartum for serum separation, respectively, and 10 serum biochemical parameters including triglycerides (TG) were measured. For the same batch of 5 ewes, manual milking (100 mL) was performed at 0, 30, and 60 days postpartum to analyze milk composition parameters, such as milk fat and milk protein. On the 60th day of the trial, before morning feeding, rumen fluid was collected from 6 randomly selected ewes per group for metagenomic analysis. 【Result】(1)The medium-energy diet group (MEL) demonstrated significantly higher maternal body weight gain compared with the other three groups (P<0.01), and alongside a markedly shorter postpartum estrus interval than the control group (CON), while both MEL and high-energy diet groups (HEL) exhibited significantly greater average daily gain (ADG) and earlier weaning ages in their lambs compared with CON and low-energy diet groups (LEL) (P<0.01). (2) At 60 days postpartum, MEL ewes showed significantly elevated serum glucose (GLU) concentrations (P<0.05) and both MEL/HEL groups displayed significantly higher lipid profiles (total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL) compared with CON/LEL groups (P<0.05). (3) Milk analysis revealed significantly increased fat and protein contents in MEL/HEL groups (P<0.05) with HEL milk showing exceptionally elevated urea nitrogen levels (P<0.05). (4) Metagenomic profiling showed no alpha diversity differences (Ace, Chao1, Shannon, and Simpson indices) among groups (P>0.05) but principal coordinate analysis revealed significant structural variations in rumen microbiota composition (P<0.05). Notable taxonomic shifts included higher Bacteroidota abundance in CON vs. HEL (P<0.05) and greater Bacillota abundance in HEL vs. CON (P<0.05), with HEL group exhibiting significantly elevated Selenomonas genera compared with CON/LEL (P<0.05). Functional analyses demonstrated nutrient-level dependent effects: KEGG pathway enrichment for Two-component system and Flagellar assembly in higher-nutrient diets (MEL/HEL) contrasted with Nucleotide metabolism and Carbon fixation pathway enrichment in lower-nutrient diets (CON/LEL) at level 3 (P<0.05). Carbohydrate-active enzyme profiling revealed progressive reductions in GH28, GH2, and CBM13 genes (P<0.05) with increasing dietary energy density, paralleled by significant enrichments in CBM43, GT9, and GT41 genes (P<0.05). 【Conclusion】In conclusion, the optimal diet for lactating Shaanbei white cashmere goats was the medium nutritional level diet group (MEL) (metabolizable energy: 9.91 MJ·kg-1, crude protein: 10.64%). Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The Breeding History, Current Status and Prospects of Alfalfa ZHANG Fan, YANG QingChuan Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4471-4481.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.016 Abstract （808）   HTML （20）    PDF （537KB）（191）       Knowledge map    Save Alfalfa (Medicago sativa subsp. sativa L.), as the world's most important leguminous forage, plays an indispensable role in modern livestock farming and ecological systems due to its high yield, superior quality, and excellent adaptability. However, China's alfalfa industry has long faced a "bottleneck" in its seed industry, primarily characterized by the insufficient innovation capacity in germplasm resources and a low supply rate of elite proprietary varieties. The root of this challenge lies not only in the relatively late start and underdeveloped technical framework of alfalfa breeding in China, but also in the complex genetic characters obstacles inherent to alfalfa itself—namely, its autotetraploid nature with high heterozygosity and a self-incompatibility mechanism. Therefore, a systematic review of alfalfa's breeding history, current research status, and a forward-looking perspective on biotechnological breeding is of significant referential value for accelerating genetic improvement in China. The history of alfalfa domestication and spread was extensive. Originating from the Transcaucasus region, it was introduced to China via the "Silk Road" and subsequently spread worldwide. The vast enrichment of its genetic diversity benefited historically from the introduction of germplasm from different geographical origins and inter/intraspecific hybridization, particularly through genetic introgression from the stress-tolerant subspecies, M. sativa subsp. falcata. This laid a solid genetic foundation for breeding varieties adapted to diverse ecological niches. Developed countries, such as the United States, have established a comprehensive system for alfalfa breeding that covered germplasm collection, evaluation, and new variety development, with a history spanning over a century. Nevertheless, even in the United States, yield improvement plateaued after 1990, revealing the potential limitations of conventional breeding strategies. Although China has made considerable progress in alfalfa breeding, successfully developing adapted varieties, such as the "Zhongmu" and "Gannong" series, the overall effort still faced significant challenges. Firstly, the number of registered varieties is relatively less (128 as of 2024, far fewer than the 1 738 in the U.S.), which severely limits the ability to select optimal varieties for China's diverse ecological environments. Secondly, conventional breeding strategies themselves have constrained the effective utilization of heterosis. Historically, breeders often employed a strategy of population mixing and recurrent selection with varieties from different geographical origins. However, this approach aggregated favorable genes to some extent, and it also led to a homogenization of the genetic backgrounds among different breeding populations, thereby diminishing the potential for generating strong heterosis through subsequent hybridization. Consequently, breaking through the limitations of traditional methods by introducing efficient modern biotechnologies has become an inevitable choice for contemporary alfalfa breeding. In recent years, modern biotechnology centered on genomics has presented unprecedented opportunities to overcome the challenges in alfalfa breeding. China has achieved notable success in foundational genomics research, completing tasks ranging from genetic analysis of germplasm resources and genetic mapping to the key molecular markers and the development of elite germplasm. These genomic resources have made it possible to dissect the genetic regulatory networks of complex traits, such as yield, quality, and stress resistance at the molecular level. Looking ahead, alfalfa breeding in China should adopt a strategy that integrates conventional breeding with modern biotechnology, transitioning from source innovation to the "Breeding 4.0" era of precision design. The integration of modern biotechnologies—including genomics, marker-assisted selection, and gene editing—to conduct precise and efficient molecular design breeding is the core pathway to resolving the "bottleneck" in China's alfalfa seed industry and achieving fast development. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of Different Host Plants on Digestive Enzyme Activity and Nutrient Content in Megalurothrips usitatus WANG HuanTing, HUANG LiFei, CAO XueMei, GONG Rui, SU GuoLian, ZHENG XiaLin, WU MingYue, YANG Lang Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4429-4438.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.012 Abstract （786）   HTML （12）    PDF （1215KB）（385）       Knowledge map    Save 【Background】Megalurothrips usitatus can successfully develop and reproduce on host plants such as cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), and white bean (Vigna cylindrica), with cowpea being the most suitable host. In contrast, its development and reproductive capacity are significantly limited on wax gourd (Benincasa hispida). 【Objective】The objective of this study is to determine the digestive enzyme activity and nutrient content in M. usitatus after feeding on different hosts, and to explore the adaptation mechanism of M. usitatus to different host plants. 【Method】F1 adults of M. usitatus reared on cowpeas for 3 d were transferred to petri dishes containing cowpea, green bean, white bean, or wax gourd, with four replicates per treatment. Sampling was conducted at 0, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after feeding. The dynamic changes in the activities of key digestive enzymes (including α-amylase, trehalase, trypsin, and chymotrypsin) were systematically measured. Concurrently, changes in the content of major nutrients, such as glycogen, soluble protein, and fat, were analyzed. 【Result】Significant changes were observed in the activities of digestive enzymes and the content of nutrients in M. usitatus after feeding on different host plants. The activities of various digestive enzymes in M. usitatus fed on cowpea, green bean and white bean were generally higher than those fed on wax gourd. Specifically, the α-amylase activity of M. usitatus fed on cowpea was the highest (1.33 mg·min-1·mg-1 protein), along with high trehalase activity (469.80 nmol·min-1·mg-1 protein). Trypsin and chymotrypsin activities reached 20.42 and 24.86 U·mg-1 protein, respectively. M. usitatus fed on green bean had the highest α-amylase activity (1.49 mg·min-1·mg-1 protein), but the activities of trehalase (304.81 nmol·min-1·mg-1 protein) and two proteases were slightly lower than those of cowpea group. Trehalase activity in white bean group was significantly decreased (175.61 nmol·min-1·mg-1 protein), while trypsin activity was increased (21.15 U·mg-1 protein). In contrast, all enzyme activities of M. usitatus fed on wax gourd were at the lowest level, the trehalase activity was only 152.89 nmol·min-1·mg-1 protein. Regarding nutrient content, glycogen content (1.61 mg·mg-1 protein) and fat content (5.54 μg per individual) were highest in M. usitatus fed on cowpea, while the lowest values were observed in the wax gourd group (glycogen content 0.79 mg·mg-1 protein; fat content 3.37 μg per individual). 【Conclusion】Different host plants significantly influenced the digestive enzyme activities and nutrient contents of M. usitatus. M. usitatus rapidly adjusted these physiological parameters after feeding on cowpea, green bean, and white bean, but exhibited slower adaptation on wax gourd. These findings indicate that M. usitatus has higher adaptability to cowpea, green bean, and white bean, whereas its adaptability to wax gourd is comparatively poorer. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Development and Application of Novel Physical Control Technologies Based on the Correlation Between Megalurothrips usitatus Outbreaks and Cowpea Flower Development Dynamics SHI CaiHua, JIN Jie, HUA DengKe, HU JingRong, ZHANG YouJun, HUANG ShengLin, WU MingYue, KONG XiangYi, XIE Wen Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4382-4392.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.008 Abstract （733）   HTML （4）    PDF （571KB）（300）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Megalurothrips usitatus is a major biotic disaster for leguminous crops, particularly prone to damaging cowpeas. The study aims to clarify the relationship between field population dynamics of M. usitatus and cowpea flowers, and to develop new green control technologies. 【Method】The population dynamics of M. usitatus across different growth stages and plant organs of cowpeas were investigated, along with the influence of flower opening and shedding times on their activity patterns. The optimal timing for pesticide application was determined, and the abscission efficiency of five abscission methods (natural abscission, fan-induced abscission, lever-induced abscission, climbing net-induced abscission, and a combined method using both fan and lever) was compared. Additionally, the effectiveness of various flower-absorbing carriers (silver-gray plastic film, shading net, weed-proof fabric, hundred-knot net, and bare soil) was evaluated. Based on these findings, a novel integrated green control strategy, termed the “trinity, internal and external killing” approach, was developed and assessed for its efficacy in controlling M. usitatus, as well as its impact on cowpea quality and yield. 【Result】The population density of M. usitatus exhibited a trend of initial increase followed by a decline from the seedling stage to the end of flowering. The lowest population density was observed during the seedling stage, with a significant increase noted during the early flowering stage, peaking at full flowering stage. M. usitatus adults predominantly reside within flowers, while nymphs preferentially inhabit pods, followed by flowers and tender shoots. As flower buds open, the number of M. usitatus adults within flowers increases progressively. Flower closure typically occurs after 10: 00, encapsulating the insects within the floral structures. These closed flowers generally fall off gradually the following day; however, substantial numbers of M. usitatus remain concealed within the fallen flowers. Notably, flowers with receptacles harbor significantly higher numbers of M. usitatus compared to those without. A mass exodus of M. usitatus from the floral structures typically begins after 6: 00, at which point they migrate to new plant organs. For effective chemical control, application during the evening or early morning—when flowers are open—is most effective. Among the tested abscission methods, the combined use of a fan and lever demonstrated the highest efficiency in removing flowers. Additionally, the hundred-knot net significantly enhanced the effectiveness of flower collection. The implementation of the “trinity, internal and external killing” integrated green control strategy resulted in a 93.71% reduction in black head and black tail symptoms, a 96.87% reduction in wrapper tail, and a 91.55% reduction in overall malformation in cowpeas, accompanied by a 20.40% increase in yield. 【Conclusion】The “trinity, internal and external killing” technique not only challenges the conventional reliance on chemical pesticides, but also effectively suppresses M. usitatus populations, enhances cowpea quality and yield, and provides a valuable theoretical and practical framework for the development of green pest control strategies in other crops. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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GENETIC DIVERSITY OF MTCO1 IN DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL POPULATIONS OF MEGALUROTHRIPS USITATUS LIU XiaoXu, ZHONG ZeXin, QIU JiaRen, YANG ChunXiao, ZHANG YongJun, XIE Wen, ZHANG YouJun, PAN HuiPeng Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4361-4371.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.006 Abstract （730）   HTML （7）    PDF （1041KB）（294）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Megalurothrips usitatus is a significant vegetable pest in China, causing substantial damage to legume crops as economic plants. The purpose of this study is to compare the genetic diversity of M. usitatus in different geographical populations and ascertain the genetic differentiation of M. usitatus, and to provide a theoretical basis for the precise control of M. usitatus. 【Method】A total of 18 geographical populations of M. usitatus were collected from 6 prefecture-level cities in Guangdong Province and 9 prefecture-level cities outside Guangdong Province. The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (CO1) gene sequence was obtained based on PCR. The haplotype diversity (Hd), nucleotide diversity (π) of different geographical populations were analyzed, and Tajima’s D neutrality test based on the mtCO1 was performed to evaluate the genetic structure of M. usitatus populations across different geographical regions. The fixation index (FST) and gene flow (Nm) were calculated to evaluate the degree of genetic differentiation among populations. 【Result】A total of 111 mtCO1 gene sequences were detected in 18 geographical populations of M. usitatus. A total of 617 conserved sites and 24 variable sites were detected, accounting for 3.68% of the total sequence length. A total of 20 haplotypes (H1-H20) were detected, of which H4 was the dominant haplotype, accounting for 48.6% of the total sequence and distributed in 17 populations. The overall population of M. usitatus exhibited relatively high haplotype diversity (Hd=0.677) and nucleotide diversity (π=0.00425), but nucleotide sequence divergence among different genetic types was not pronounced. The nonsignificant Tajima’s D neutrality test indicated stable population size without marked expansion. Furthermore, the population fixation coefficient (FST=0.04973<0.05) and gene flow (Nm=9.55>1) suggested sufficient genetic exchange and low genetic differentiation among geographically distinct populations. The results of molecular variance analysis showed that the main factor causing the overall population variation was intra-population variation. 【Conclusion】The geographically distinct populations of M. usitatus exhibited relatively high genetic diversity, with frequent gene flow and minimal genetic differentiation among populations, suggesting a stable overall population size. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the integrated management of M. usitatus field populations in diverse regions. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of Different Organic Fertilizers on the Control of Cowpea Wilt by Bacillus velezensis SD13 XIE HaiPeng, LIN JunXu, LIU Yong, MAI XianJun, LUO Feng, WANG XueWu, XIE Wen, LI ShaoKa, KONG XiangYi, WU XiaoYan Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (21): 4405-4420.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.21.010 Abstract （698）   HTML （21）    PDF （3109KB）（296）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】The objective of this study is to investigate the biological control effect of Bacillus velezensis SD13 against cowpea wilt when combined with different organic fertilizers, and to provide a theoretical basis for the application of biological control technology of cowpea wilt. 【Method】A pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of applying 10% sheep manure, 10% vermicompost, and a 5% sheep manure+5% vermicompost mixture as fertilizer carriers on the efficacy of B. velezensis SD13 in controlling cowpea wilt. The experiment included eight treatments: blank control (CK), pathogen control (F), pathogen+SD13 (FB), pathogen+10% vermicompost (FW), pathogen+SD13+10% vermicompost (FBW), pathogen+10% sheep manure (FS), pathogen+SD13+10% sheep manure (FBS), and pathogen+SD13+5% vermicompost+5% sheep manure (FBWS). Each treatment was replicated three times, with three pots per replicate. After 45 d of cultivation in a greenhouse, the incidence rate of cowpea wilt, plant biomass (above-ground and below-ground dry weight), and defense enzyme activity (catalase) were measured for each treatment. Rhizosphere soil samples were collected, and the structure, diversity, and key microbial taxa of the soil bacterial community were analyzed using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing. 【Result】The control effect of sheep manure, vermicompost and mixed organic fertilizer combined with B. velezensis SD13 on cowpea wilt was more than 75%. The combination of sheep manure and SD13 significantly increased soil total nitrogen by 30%, with the dominant soil bacteria being Firmicutes, which showed a negative correlation with other bacterial communities. The combination of vermicompost and SD13 significantly increased the above-ground dry weight of diseased cowpea plants by 29% and the below-ground dry weight by 30%, enhanced the activity of catalase in cowpea by 10%, and significantly increased the richness and diversity of soil bacteria, restoring the community structure to a healthy level. The combination of mixed organic fertilizers and SD13 significantly increased the below-ground dry weight of diseased cowpea plants by 155%, with the soil community structure being influenced by the microbial communities of both vermicompost and sheep manure. 【Conclusion】The type of organic fertilizer affects the biocontrol effect of B. velezensis SD13 against cowpea wilt in the soil. Vermicompost is more suitable for combination with SD13 than sheep manure. This combination not only ensures high biocontrol effect, but also further enhances cowpea biomass, catalase activity, and soil bacterial richness and diversity. It increases the abundance of beneficial bacterial communities and restores the soil bacterial community structure and composition to levels associated with healthy cowpea soil, making it a suitable organic fertilizer for the application of SD13 in controlling cowpea wilt in soil. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The Effects of Biochar Combined with Fulvic Acid on the Physical and Chemical Properties, Enzyme Activities and Multifunctionality of Soil in Coastal Saline-Alkali Land ZHANG HaiRui, JIA AngYuan, GAO QiQi, HAN ZheQun, NAN ShanShan, DUAN BiHua, WU XuePing Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (20): 4178-4188.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.20.011 Abstract （680）   HTML （20）    PDF （585KB）（207）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】This study aimed to explore the effects of biochar combined with fulvic acid on the improvement of coastal saline-alkali soil and its influence on soil multifunctionality (SMF), providing the theoretical support for the scientific application of biochar and fulvic acid.【Method】Based on a three-year field experimental study, four treatments were set up in the coastal saline-alkali land, including (control (CK), single application of 30 t·hm-2 biochar (C1), single application of 0.15 t·hm-2 fulvic acid (H1), and combined application of biochar and fulvic acid (C1H1). The soil physical and chemical properties and soil enzyme activities in the 0-10 cm, 10-20 cm soil layers and rhizosphere soil were determined, and the soil multifunctionality was calculated based on the average value method.【Result】The results showed that the combined application of biochar and fulvic acid could significantly improve the physical, chemical and biological properties of soil. Compared with CK, the soil bulk density under C1H1 treatment at 0-10 cm and 10-20 cm soil layers decreased by 9.2% and 11.2%, respectively; the saturated soil moisture content increased by 11.3% and 9.8%, respectively; the total soil porosity increased by 12.6% and 12.8%, respectively; the soil pH value decreased by 4.4% and 3.9%, respectively; the soil EC value decreased by 19.9% and 22.8%, respectively; the soil SOC increased by 44.6% and 44.7%, respectively; available phosphorus (AP) increased by 48.3% and 44.8%, respectively; the availability of potassium (AK) increased by 45.3% and 43.3%, respectively. The enzyme activity analysis revealed that C1H1 had the most significant promoting effect on the carbon-nitrogen cycle-related enzymes (β-glucosidase, cellobiose hydrolase, leucine aminopeptidase), with an increase ranging from 23.4% to 47%. Under the combined treatment of biochar and fulvic acid, the SMF index had the greatest increase, rising by 77.5%. 【Conclusion】The combined application of biochar and fulvic acid significantly enhanced soil multifunctionality by improving the pore structure of coastal saline-alkali land and increasing nutrient availability and enzyme activity. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (20): 0-.   Abstract （679）      PDF （312KB）（88）       Knowledge map    Save Related Articles | Metrics

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Developing a Lightweight Multimodal Model for Cropland Remote Sensing Monitoring TANG HuaJun, WU WenBin, YU QiangYi, SHI Yun, DUAN YuLin, LI WenJuan, QIAN JianPing, SONG Qian, XIA Lang, LI HuiBin, SU BaoFeng, FAN BeiLei, HU Qiong, YE JianQiu, ZHANG Shuai Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2026, 59 (1): 78-89.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.01.006 Abstract （647）   HTML （24）    PDF （6611KB）（283）       Knowledge map    Save The spatio-temporal dynamics of cropland and their utilization are crucial to national food security, resource security and ecological security. Currently, the approach to cropland remote sensing monitoring generally follows the “data - (model) - information” paradigm. However, this paradigm has a significant “innovation-application” gap, with numerous information products but weak knowledge service capabilities, which fail to meet practical application needs of cropland protection and utilization. Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is accelerating the transformation from active data retrieval and analysis to intelligent knowledge services and empowerment. In the new era, the technical system for cropland remote sensing monitoring needs to be restructured. This paper thus proposed an innovative idea for constructing a lightweight multimodal model for cropland remote sensing monitoring. Firstly, it analyzed the demands of different subjects and categorized the application scenarios of cropland remote sensing monitoring into four aspects (cropland area and use, infrastructure, degradation, and crop growth), clarifying the specific requirements for monitoring information and knowledge services in different scenarios. Secondly, from the perspective of human cognition, it analyzed the “macro-level knowledge” and “fine-grained information” characteristics contained in the morphological features of cropland, providing a new entry point for the construction of a multimodal model for cropland remote sensing monitoring. Finally, it combines multi-modal remote sensing data with general large language models to construct an AI agent for cropland remote sensing monitoring, featuring capabilities in perception, reasoning, learning, and execution. It strengthens the attention mechanism to focus on and capture the important features of cropland morphology, and builds a lightweight multimodal model based on these features. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Identification and Gene Mapping of Rice Grain Shape Mutant sgd13 ZHUANG LiHua, LUO Lei, ZHAO ChunFang, WANG JiZhong, ZHANG YaDong, HE Lei Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (24): 5097-5109.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.24.001 Abstract （634）   HTML （99）    PDF （3776KB）（723）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Grain shape is an important agronomic trait affecting rice yield and quality, and its development is regulated by the three-dimensional morphology of grain (grain length, grain width, grain thickness). Identification and cloning of grain shape regulatory genes can enrich the molecular mechanism of rice grain development regulation, and provide theoretical basis and genetic resources for high-yield molecular design breeding of rice. 【Method】A stable inherited grain type mutant sgd13 (small grain and dwarf 13) was screened from the mutant library of Nanjing 9108 induced by ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS). The grain morphology, 1000-grain weight, seed setting rate, yield per plant, plant height, panicle length and other phenotypes of the mutants were statistically analyzed. Paraffin sections and scanning electron microscopy were used to analyze the changes in the number and size of glume and stem cells. The genetic analysis of sgd13 and Nanjing 9108 was carried out. The F2 population constructed by sgd13 and Nanjing 9108 was used to locate the gene by BSA-seq technology. The SWISS-MODEL website was used to predict the three-dimensional structure of wild-type and mutant proteins. 【Result】The grains of sgd13 were significantly smaller and narrower, the grain length decreased by 19.98%, and the grain width decreased by 7.81%. Compared with WT, the plant height, spike length and yield per plant of sgd13 were significantly reduced. There was no significant difference in the number of internodes between sgd13 and WT, but the lengths of the first, second, third and sixth internodes were shorter. Cytological analysis showed that the glume and stem cells of sgd13 became smaller and less, indicating that sgd13 may affect organ development by regulating cell division and expansion. Genetic analysis confirmed that the trait was controlled by a single recessive nuclear gene. The candidate gene was mapped to LOC_Os01g52550 by BSA-seq, which encodes an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter. The ABC transporter contains two typical core domains: A highly conserved nucleotide binding domain (NBD) and a less conserved transmembrane domain (TMD). In the sgd13 mutant, a single base substitution (T→A) occurred in the exon region of the gene, which was located in the NBD domain. This single base substitution directly causes the encoded amino acid to change from glutamic acid (E) to aspartic acid (D). Due to the differences in side chain structure and chemical properties between glutamic acid and aspartic acid, this change is likely to affect the spatial structure of SGD13 protein, thereby interfering with its normal function, and ultimately leading to a unique phenotype of the mutant sgd13. Genetic complementation experiments showed that the introduction of wild-type LOC_Os01g52550 could restore the grain shape of sgd13 to the wild-type level.【Conclusion】The sgd13 mutant phenotype was controlled by a single recessive nuclear gene, which was caused by the LOC_Os01g52550 mutation. The T→A mutation in the exon region of the gene causes the glutamic acid in the NBD domain to become aspartic acid, which affects the three-dimensional structure of the protein. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Morpho-Physiological Responses and Adaptive Strategies of Rice Germplasm Accessions from Different Subspecies Under Salt Stress CHEN Min, JIAO ZiLan, QIAO ChengBin, XU Hao, ZHANG Bi, MA DongHua, KONG WeiRu, WANG JingWen, SONG JiaWei, LUO ChengKe, LI PeiFu, TIAN Lei Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2026, 59 (4): 705-722.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.04.001 Abstract （621）   HTML （69）    PDF （5879KB）（381）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Soil salinization severely constrains the sustainable development of rice production. The specific goals are to: comprehensively evaluate the salt tolerance of rice core germplasm accessions at the seedling stage, investigate the morphological and physiological characteristics of different rice subspecies under salt stress, clarify the associated variations in their responses, and summarize their adaptive strategies, thereby providing a theoretical foundation for screening and breeding salt-tolerant rice varieties.【Method】The salt tolerance score (STS), plant height, root length, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root dry weight and SPAD were measured for 276 rice core germplasm accessions after treatment using 125 mmol·L-1 NaCl for 6 days. The relative values of each trait, except for STS and shoot fresh weight were calculated, along with the shoot water content (SWC). T-tests, significance analysis and correlation analysis were used to explore the morphological and physiological differences for salt stress responses among different rice subspecies. Principal component analysis (PCA) and stepwise linear regression were applied to screen key indicators for salt tolerance. The D-value was calculated to identify typical salt-tolerant accessions and salt-sensitive accessions, which were used to elucidate the regulatory patterns and response strategies of salt stress in different subspecies of rice.【Result】Salt stress affected the growth of seedlings of the three subspecies of rice. Compared with japonica rice, indica rice and AUS exhibited milder inhibitory effects from salt stress, and AUS demonstrated greater phenotypic variation. The STS, relative seedling height (RSH), relative root length (RRL), relative root dry weight (RRDW), relative SPAD (RSPAD) and SWC among the three subspecies of rice accessions were not significantly different. However, the relative shoot dry weight (RSDW) of indica rice was significantly higher than that of japonica rice and AUS, and the salt tolerance of temperate japonica rice seedlings was significantly higher than that of tropical japonica rice and admixed japonica rice. Correlation patterns of the seven salt-tolerance-related traits varied between the three subspecies. Three principal components were extracted from japonica rice, indica rice and AUS, with cumulative contribution rates of 82.587%, 80.117%, and 88.700%, respectively. Based on this, the D-values for the comprehensive evaluation of salt tolerance were calculated for each accession, and key parameters for salt tolerance were screened. It was found that RSDW is a common key indicator affecting the salt tolerance of rice seedlings, while RSH and RRDW are shared by japonica rice and AUS, and STS is the common key parameter for indica rice and AUS. In the three subspecies, high-D-value accessions and low-D-value accessions were selected to analyze root characteristics, ion balance, reactive oxygen species accumulation, and osmotic regulation substance content under salt stress. The root total number (RTN), root tip number (RN), total root length (TRL), and root surface area (RSA) of high-D-value accessions in the three subspecies were significantly higher than those of the three categories of low-D-value accessions. Among the three types of high-D-value accessions, the RTN and RN of indica rice were significantly higher than those of japonica rice and AUS. The root average diameter (RAD) of indica rice and AUS was significantly higher than that of japonica rice. AUS had significantly higher surface area and volume of roots in the 0.5-1 mm diameter range than japonica rice and indica rice, while japonica rice had significantly higher root volume in the 0-0.5 mm diameter range than indica rice and AUS. In terms of ion balance, the shoot Na+ content (SNC) of the three types of high-D-value accessions was significantly lower than that of the three types of low-D-value accessions. Among the three types of high-D-value groups, AUS had significantly lower SNC and shoot Na+/K+ (SNK) than that of japonica rice, japonica rice had significantly lower root Na+ content (RNC) than AUS, indica rice had significantly higher root K+ content (RKC) than AUS, and japonica rice and indica rice had significantly lower root Na+/K+ (RNK) than AUS. In terms of reactive oxygen species content, among the three categories of high-D-value accessions, the hydrogen peroxide content of japonica rice was significantly lower than that of indica rice and AUS. In terms of osmoregulatory substance content, among the three types of high-D-value accessions, the soluble sugar content of indica rice and AUS was significantly higher than that of japonica rice, and the proline content of indica rice was significantly higher than that of japonica rice.【Conclusion】Significant differences were observed in the morphological and physiological characteristics of rice germplasm accessions from different subspecies under salt stress. RSDW is a common key indicator affecting salt tolerance of rice seedlings. In response to salt stress, typical salt-tolerant germplasm from japonica, indica, and AUS developed distinct combinatorial profiles of regulatory modes, which varied in their emphasis on four key aspects: root morphological characteristics, ion homeostasis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and osmotic adjustment. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Intelligent Monitoring and Ecological Utilization of Saline-Alkaline Land MEI XuRong, LI YuYi, WU WenBin, WU XuePing Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (20): 4039-4046.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.20.001 Abstract （609）   HTML （46）    PDF （371KB）（338）       Knowledge map    Save Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Foliar Spraying TaSBEIIbs-dsRNA to Increase Amylose Content in Wheat LI LinYan, ZHANG GaoYang, FENG XianYang, GU ShiLong, HUANG YeNan, SUN ZhongKe, LI ChengWei Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (22): 4557-4569.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.22.001 Abstract （608）   HTML （70）    PDF （922KB）（316）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Wheat starch mainly consists of amylose and amylopectin. Long-term consumption of refined flour products increases the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, whereas consuming flour with a high content of resistant starch has a positive effect on regulating blood glucose levels. Given the generally positive correlation between resistant starch and amylose, increasing the amylose content in wheat germplasm has become a goal for quality improvement breeding research. 【Method】Four gene fragments of starch branching enzyme (TaSBEIIb) were selected to successfully construct a high-efficiency dsRNA expression vector. A gradient optimization based on culture medium components significantly enhanced dsRNA yield. Based on this, the effects of naked dsRNA and dsRNA encapsulated with the nanocarrier hydroxypropyltrimethyl ammonium chitosan chloride (HACC) on wheat starch metabolism were explored through foliar spraying. Utilizing a wheat seedling culture system, the impact of dsRNA spraying on the amylose content in wheat seedlings and the expression of starch-related genes was observed. Furthermore, a field trial analyzed the effects of dsRNA spraying on the amylose content in mature wheat grains. The protective effect of chitosan quaternary ammonium salt-coated dsRNA and its influence on amylose content in mature wheat grains were also investigated. 【Result】Four recombinant plasmids (pRNAI-TaSBE1-pRNAI-TaSBE4), expressing dsRNA were successfully constructed. The optimized fermentation medium increased the dsRNA yield from 26.54 mg·L-1 to 50.65 mg·L-1, representing a 91% increase compared to the initial medium. Spraying dsRNA interfered with the expression of the target genes, with the highest interference efficiency observed on day 7 for the TaSBEIIb1 fragment. After interference with the four fragments, the expression of TaSBEIIb was reduced by an average of 47.73%. Additionally, the interference of TaSBEIIb affected the expression of other genes in the starch synthesis pathway, including TaSSII, TaSSIV, and TaSBEIIa1 with peak interference efficiencies occurring on days 3, 7, and 3, respectively. Their expression levels decreased by an average of 54.53%, 59.94%, and 47.64%. The 2023 field trial indicated that spraying naked dsRNA increased the amylose content in wheat grains by 17.2%-36.5% after 7 days of treatment, although the effect diminished to 0.2%-8.3% by the maturity stage. In the 2024 field trial, multiple applications of both naked dsRNA and chitosan quaternary ammonium salt-coated raised the amylose content in mature wheat grains from 27.72% to 30.37%, about 10% increase compared to the control. 【Conclusion】Exogenous spraying of TaSBEIIbs-dsRNA effectively increases the amylose content in starch. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Identification of Salt Tolerance in Maize Natural Populations at the Seedling Stage and Analysis of Salt Tolerance-Associated Genes WU ShuYu, HENG YanFang, YU TaiFei, WANG ShiJia, YU SiJia, LI Yuan, HU Zheng, ZHANG Hui, SUN XianJun, LI Liang, JIANG QiYan Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (20): 4085-4099.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.20.005 Abstract （598）   HTML （52）    PDF （4369KB）（255）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Soil salinization significantly impairs the growth and development of maize, resulting in reduced yields. Investigating the salt tolerance of various maize inbred lines and identifying favorable allelic variants associated with salt tolerance can provide valuable SNP markers and candidate gene resources for salt-tolerant maize varieties.【Method】This study utilized a natural population comprising 238 inbred maize lines as experimental materials. Twenty-day-old maize seedlings at the three-leaf stage were subjected to treatment with a 300 mmol·L-1 NaCl solution, and changes in biomass, moisture contents as well as salt damage phenotypes were evaluated after 40 days of salt stress. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was subsequently performed to identify favorable allelic variants associated with salt tolerance in maize.【Result】Through salt tolerance assessment of a maize natural population at the seedling stage, the materials were categorized into five distinct salt tolerance grades based on the salt damage rate: 22 highly tolerant materials (Grade 1), 93 tolerant materials (Grade 2), 62 moderately tolerant materials (Grade 3), 41 salt-sensitive materials (Grade 4), and 20 highly sensitive materials (Grade 5). The number of materials with different salt tolerance levels shows a normal distribution characteristic, with high-tolerance and highly sensitive materials comprising 17.6% of the total, while intermediate-grade materials accounted for 82.4%. Statistical analysis revealed that the salt damage rate was significantly and negatively correlated with the fresh weight, dry weight, and moisture content of plants under salt stress. The investigated traits exhibited considerable variability, indicating substantial differences among the genotypes. Genome-wide association analysis identified a total of 40 SNP loci associated with maize salt tolerance. Further investigation revealed one significantly associated SNP locus on chromosome 1 and another on chromosome 10. Analysis of the candidate genes within the 100 Kb confidence interval upstream and downstream of these two loci identified a total of 18 functional genes, including 9 genes with functional annotations and 9 genes with unknown functions.【Conclusion】22 first-class salt-tolerant maize inbred line materials were selected from a natural population consisting of 238 lines. 40 SNP loci associated with salt tolerance in maize seedlings were identified, among which two key SNPs showed significant association with the trait. Two salt tolerance-related candidate genes, ZmSTYK46 and Zm00001eb004810, were identified. ZmSTYK46 encodes a serine/threonine protein kinase, while the function of Zm00001eb004810 remains unknown. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Integrated Nutrient Management Technology and Its Effects for Annual Rice-Rapeseed Rotation REN Tao, FANG YaTing, LU JianWei Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (16): 3159-3163.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.16.001 Abstract （575）   HTML （88）    PDF （246KB）（266）       Knowledge map    Save Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The Current Situation, Regional Characteristics and International Experience of Agricultural Socialized Services in China WANG JiaMei, XU FengQi, ZHOU Hui, HU XiangDong Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2026, 59 (2): 459-474.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.02.017 Abstract （570）   HTML （17）    PDF （510KB）（117）       Knowledge map    Save Under the impetus of economic and social development and the rural revitalization strategy, China’s grain output has maintained bumper harvests for many consecutive years, but it still faces challenges such as the low production efficiency and the large income gap among farmers. Given the national condition of “a large country with small-scale agriculture”, promoting the connection between small farmers and modern agriculture is of great significance, and agricultural socialized services have become a key bridge linking them. This paper focused on China's agricultural socialized services, aiming to analyze their development status and regional characteristics, draw lessons from international experience, and put forward development suggestions, so as to provide the reference for promoting agricultural modernization. In terms of the current development situation, the policy system for agricultural socialized services has been gradually improved, with increasingly clear policy goals, supporting the diversification of service subjects, the diversification of policy tools, and regional differentiation. In terms of the regional service structure, taking the socialized service situation in Henan Province as the analysis object, the agricultural socialized service market has formed a three-level market structure of "leading enterprises - agricultural machinery professional cooperatives - agricultural machinery professional households". The government took the lead in providing financial support, and market entities at different levels had complementary advantages. In terms of regional service characteristics, China has initially built a new agricultural socialized service system characterized by “government guidance, multi-stakeholder collaboration and functional complementarity”. This system took public service institutions as the basic support, cooperative economic organizations as the grassroots network, leading agricultural enterprises as the industrial hub, and social forces such as scientific research institutions and industry associations as important supplements. It combined public welfare services with commercial services and coordinates special services with comprehensive services. In terms of international experience, the United States has built a three-dimensional collaborative agricultural socialized service system adapting to large-scale agricultural production, which consisted of government public services, private enterprise services and farmer cooperative systems. Japan has established an agricultural socialized service system centered on agricultural associations, which was suitable for small-scale family operations. In the reform of their service systems, both countries have achieved upgrades in organizational structure, service content and technical empowerment. The common points of the two countries' service systems lay in connecting farmers with modern agriculture through organizational embedding, promoting agricultural modernization with technical empowerment, and innovating service content to enhance industrial competitiveness. Based on China's national conditions and international experience, the following policy suggestions were put forward: We should strengthen government guidance and institutional guarantees to consolidate the service foundation, cultivate diversified service subjects and build a collaborative service network, deepen financial and digital empowerment to improve service quality and efficiency, and improve the interest linkage mechanism to protect the rights and interests of small farmers. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Breeding of a New Heat-Tolerance Fragrant Rice Germplasm ZY532 Using Sanming Dominant Genic Male Sterile Rice QIU DongFeng, LIU Gang, LIU ChunPing, XIA KuaiFei, WANG TingBao, WU Yan, HE Yong, HUANG XianBo, ZHANG ZaiJun, YOU AiQing, TIAN ZhiHong Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (18): 3571-3582.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.18.001 Abstract （568）   HTML （31）    PDF （1257KB）（150）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】To meet the increasing food demand driven by population growth and environmental changes, it is necessary to continuously cultivate varieties with high yield, good quality, and multiple resistances. Efficiently create new germplasm with rich genetic backgrounds and genetic diversity to provide a reference for breeding new varieties that balance multiple excellent traits. 【Method】The Sanming dominant genic male sterile material was used to simplify the hybridization procedure. It was hybridized with multiple parents with distant geographical relationships to aggregate multiple excellent traits. Aiming at problems such as a narrow genetic basis and the difficulty of applying molecular markers, S221 was successively and continuously hybridized with materials such as 09598, Ezhong 5, Yuanfengzhan, Yunxiangruan, etc. Fertile plants were selected from the offspring of the last hybridization. The new variety was cultivated by combining the pedigree method with heat-tolerance analysis, rice quality analysis, and resistance screening. The DNA of 60 selected single plants from the F10 series of lines and 4 parents was extracted. Primers for the target sites were designed. The target DNA fragments were captured by PCR and sequenced. Finally, the genotyping analysis of the target sites was carried out. The SLYm1R high-density rice whole-genome SNP chip was used for the analysis of functional genes. 【Result】Genotype analysis is carried out to analyze the degree of genetic relationship or similarity based on the magnitude of the base substitution rate. The parental materials Ezhong 5 and Yunxiangruan have a relatively distant relationship with other parental materials, while 09598 has a relatively close relationship with Yuanfengzhan. The base substitution rates among the three newly obtained lines are as follows: 0.0099545 (170531-170532), 0.0338213 (170531-170533), and0.0371913 (170532-170533). Within each line, the base substitution rate is 0, indicating that there are differences among the three lines, but there is no genetic difference within each line. Through successive generations and expansion propagation, new germplasms were formed, which were named ZY531, ZY532, and ZY533 respectively. The results of functional gene analysis show that the functional genes of the ZY532 series of germplasms are respectively derived from 4 parents, aggregating excellent genes from multiple parents. For example, the Os-MOT1;1 gene is derived from Yunxiangruan, which can reduce abiotic stresses such as molybdenum accumulation; the Bph3 gene is derived from 09598 and Ezhong 5, which can enhance the resistance to brown planthoppers; the OsGSK2 gene is derived from 09598, Yuanfengzhan, and Yunxiangruan, which can increase the length of the mesocotyl and is suitable for direct seeding; the Badh2 gene is derived from Yunxiangruan, making the rice fragrant; multiple blast resistance genes are derived from different parents and can also be aggregated into the innovative resources, enabling it to obtain good blast resistance. ZY532 has excellent rice quality, good blast resistance, and strong heat resistance. ZY532 also has good heat resistance, and the heat resistance of the hybrid combination prepared reaches level 3. 【Conclusion】When using dominant genic male sterility to cultivate new varieties, due to the complex genetic background, the breeding cycle is often long. Combining high-throughput SNP marker detection can quickly screen out stable lines and more types, which not only broadens the genetic basis but also improves the breeding efficiency. It is an efficient breeding method. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Functions of ABC Transporter OsARG1 in Rice Heading Date Regulation WANG ZhongNi, LEI Yue, LI JiaLi, GONG YanLong, ZHU SuSong Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2026, 59 (1): 1-16.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.01.001 Abstract （540）   HTML （89）    PDF （4062KB）（346）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Heading date is a critical agronomic trait influencing rice yield and quality, regulated by complex networks involving histone-modifying enzymes, transcription factors, protein kinases, florigens, and phytochromes. While ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are known for their roles in substrate transport, their functions in heading date regulation remain unclear. This study investigates the role of the ABC transporter gene OsARG1 in the regulation of rice heading date, which will provide evidence for enriching the heading date regulation network.【Method】A comparative analysis was conducted between wild-type Nipponbare and the osarg1 mutant. Key agronomic traits, including heading date, plant height, tiller number, and panicle length, were assessed. Chlorophyll contents in leaf of Nipponbare (WT), albino leaf (WL), yellow-green leaf (YL) and green leaf (GL) of osarg1 were measured. Metal element contents such as cobalt, nickel, calcium, magnesium and iron in WT, WL, YL and GL were determined by ICP-MS. Hormone profiling, transcriptome sequencing, and integrative analysis were performed on WT, WL and GL to explore the regulatory function of OsARG1.【Result】The osarg1 mutant exhibited an earlier heading date than wild-type in both Guiyang and Changchun. It also showed reduced plant height, tiller number, and panicle length. Chlorophyll levels in WL and YL were significantly lower, accompanied by disrupted metal element homeostasis. Hormonal analysis revealed elevated levels of gibberellins, auxin-related, and cytokinin-related hormones in GL and WL, particularly in WL. Transcriptome analysis identified 2 001 and 6 555 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in GL_vs_WT and WL_vs_WT comparisons, respectively. Over 20 heading date-associated genes, including Hd3a, OsMADS14, and chromatin methyltransferase genes, were differentially expressed. GO and KEGG analyses of DEGs from GL vs WT comparison highlighted enrichment in pathways related to metabolism, development, and environmental responses. Integrated transcriptomic and hormonal analysis suggested that OsARG1 may influence gibberellin and cytokinin levels by modulating diterpene and zeatin metabolism and hormone signaling pathways. Expression levels of the selected genes by qRT-PCR were consistent with the transcriptome data, validating the transcriptomic findings. 【Conclusion】The osarg1 mutant heads earlier than the wild-type, with OsARG1 likely regulating heading date through modulating the expression of heading date related genes. Additionally, OsARG1 plays roles in maintaining chlorophyll content and metal element (such as nickel, iron, and magnesium) balance in rice leaves. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Construction of Infectious Clones for Canine Parvovirus CPV-2c SX-LC Strain and Virus Rescue LIU ChenXi, ZHAO BingBing, SHI ZhiBin, WANG ShiDa, WANG JingFei Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (17): 3561-3570.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.17.015 Abstract （538）   HTML （14）    PDF （2188KB）（88）       Knowledge map    Save 【Background】Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2), a member of the genus Parvovirus within the family Parvoviridae, is a non-enveloped, single-stranded DNA virus that mainly infects canines and poses a great threat to puppies in particular. The virus has become one of the most significant epidemic threats to the global canine breeding industry. Currently, vaccination is the main strategy for preventing CPV-2 infection; however, cases of disease have still been reported in vaccinated dogs. Therefore, the fundamental research on the pathogenic mechanisms and immunological characteristics of circulating CPV-2 strains is essential for optimizing prevention and control strategies.【Objective】This study aimed to establish a reverse genetics system for the currently prevalent CPV-2c subtype, providing an essential experimental tool for future investigations into viral pathogenicity, immune escape mechanisms, and host adaptive evolution.【Method】Based on the published genome sequence of the CPV-Y1 strain (GenBank ID: D26079.1), specific primers were designed to amplify the near full-length genome of the CPV-2c SX-LC strain, which was isolated in our laboratory using segmented PCR. The inverted terminal repeats (ITRs) of CPV-2 were synthesized and combined with the PCR products to clone the complete CPV-2 genome into the pBluescript SK (+) vector. An XhoI restriction site was introduced into the genome as a genetic marker, facilitating the construction of a stable and operable reverse genetics plasmid. The purified recombinant plasmid was transfected into canine-derived F81 cells to rescue the virus, followed by serial passaging. Successfully rescue of the virus was confirmed through the observation of cytopathic effects (CPE), detection of the VP2 major capsid protein using indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), and morphological identification of viral particles by negative staining under transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Additionally, the proliferation kinetics of the rescued virus were assessed via a one-step growth curve assay, and hemagglutination activity (HA) was evaluated too. These characteristics were compared to those of the parental wild-type strain to verify the stability and utility of the constructed reverse genetics system.【Result】Restriction enzyme digestion and sequencing confirmed the successful construction of the full-length CPV-2c SX-LC genome plasmid. After transfection of the recombinant plasmid into F81 cells and five serial passages, the significant cytopathic effects were observed. IFA results confirmed stable expression of the VP2 antigen in infected cells. TEM analysis revealed virus particles with typical CPV-2 morphological characteristics, further validating the successful rescue of the recombinant virus rCPV-2c SX-LC. Growth curve analysis and hemagglutination assays demonstrated that the rescued virus exhibited replication kinetics and hemagglutination activity comparable to those of the parental strain, indicating similar biological characteristics.【Conclusion】By optimizing the cloning of ITRs, a plasmid containing the complete CPV-2 ITR structure was successfully constructed, which improved rescue efficiency and ensured genome integrity compared to traditional construction strategies. The established reverse genetics system for the CPV-2c SX-LC strain provided a robust technical platform for further basic and applied research on canine parvovirus. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Identification of Dwarf Genes and Mining of Plant Height Genetic Loci in Shanxi Wheat XIANG AiHui, BAI RongJi, HAO YuQiong, ZHAO JiaJia, WU BangBang, LI XiaoHua, ZHENG XingWei, GUAN PanFeng, ZHENG Jun Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (17): 3372-3388.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.17.002 Abstract （529）   HTML （39）    PDF （4463KB）（156）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Dwarf genes play a crucial role in wheat genetics and breeding. Different ecological zones and wheat varieties have varying requirements for plant height. Therefore, understanding the distribution pattern and characteristics of dwarf genes in Shanxi wheat, as well as identifying novel genetic loci related to plant height will contribute to wheat genetic improvement.【Method】Based on the accurate identification of plant height and component traits, a total of 11 known dwarfing gene types were genotyped in 306 Shanxi wheat samples and integrated with a 16K SNP chip to conduct genome-wide association analysis aimed at identifying new loci controlling plant height.【Result】With the exception of spike length, both of the plant height and component traits of Shanxi wheat exhibited a gradual decline over the years of breeding and the various compositional traits associated with plant height were influenced by distinct selection pressures. The distribution frequency of 11 dwarfing genes in Shanxi wheat from high to low was Rht12, Rht24, Rht8, Rht26, Rht13, Rht25, Rht2, Rht5, Rht4, Rht1, and Rht9, among which Rht1, Rht2, and Rht25 have not been found in landraces. Except for Rht2 and Rht25 is more widely distributed in irrigated cultivars than in dryland cultivars, the distribution of other dwarfing genes is relatively similar in dryland cultivars and irrigated cultivars. A total of 125 different dwarf genes combination were identified, of which the combination with the highest distribution frequency was Rht8+Rht12+Rht24. Combined with association analysis, a total of 26 stable genetic loci were identified to be distributed on 14 chromosomes including 1A, 2A, and 2B. Notably, eight loci such as QPH-6D, QPH-7A, and Q3rd IL-1D have not been reported yet. Among these, QPH-6D mainly reduced plant height by shortening the length of the third and fourth internodes by approximately 13.68 %, while QPH-7A reduced the plant height by 16.87 % via shortening the length of the second and third internodes.【Conclusion】The main dwarf genes in Shanxi wheat were mainly Rht12, Rht24, and Rht8. 26 stable genetic loci were located on chromosomes 1A, 2A, and 2B, among which eight loci such as QPH-6D, QPH-7A, and Q3rd IL-1D may be novel loci related to plant height. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Development and Application of A KASP Marker-Based Identification System for Tomato Varieties SU XiaoMei, YANG ZongHui, LIU ShuMei, ZHANG ZongJie, LÜ HongJun, HOU LiXia Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (22): 4746-4756.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.22.014 Abstract （521）   HTML （23）    PDF （7171KB）（119）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】To screen KASP core markers and establish a high-throughput molecular identification system for tomato, providing technical support for tomato variety authentication, purity testing, and plant variety protection. 【Method】Based on re-sequencing data of tomato inbred lines, high-quality SNP loci covering the whole genome were selected for KASP markers design. A total of 360 tomato varieties, collected from different breeding research institutions and private companies, were used to validate the designed KASP markers. According to genotyping data, a set of KASP core markers with high polymorphism information content (PIC), excellent stability, and relatively uniform distribution across chromosomes was screened. Cluster analysis and DNA fingerprinting of the collected tomato varieties were performed, and the core markers were applied to authenticate variety authenticity and assess seed purity. 【Result】Utilizing the SNPs obtained from re-sequencing data analysis of over 300 tomato materials, 600 SNP loci were selected for marker development, averaging 50 per chromosome. Among these, 517 were successfully converted into KASP markers, with a conversion success rate of 86.2%. Based on physical distances on chromosomes, 10-12 markers per chromosome were prioritized, totaling 128 markers, which were validated and refined using diverse tomato varieties. Ultimately, 68 core primer pairs were selected, averaging 4-8 per chromosome. Genotyping analysis of 360 tomato varieties using these 68 core markers revealed similarity coefficients ranging from 0.32 to 1.00 in cluster analysis. For four tomato types (fresh tomatoes, flavor tomatoes, cherry tomatoes and processing tomatoes), the core marker sets were streamlined to 48, 32, 36, and 36 markers, respectively, with PIC values all exceeding 0.35. These markers effectively distinguished different varieties. To validate marker applicability, two flavor tomato varieties were authenticated using core markers, revealing two differing loci, confirming their distinctness. Additionally, two polymorphic markers between parental lines were used to assess the purity of hybrid seeds of Pinfan 4031, yielding 100% purity, consistent with field evaluation results. 【Conclusion】The developed KASP markers are applicable for tomato genetic diversity analysis, DNA fingerprinting, variety authenticity testing, and hybrid seed purity evaluation. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Evaluation of 111 Alfalfa Germplasm Resources for Seedling Phenotypic Drought Tolerance Characterization BAO MingFang, QIN Yan, CHEN CaiJin, ZHANG ShangPei, ZHANG GuoHui, SHA XiaoDi Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (19): 3825-3836.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.19.003 Abstract （520）   HTML （26）    PDF （1960KB）（116）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】To explore the ideal traits and methods that can characterize the drought resistance of the core germplasm population of alfalfa at the seedling stage, and to mine excellent drought-resistant germplasm, so as to provide technical support and material basis for the identification of drought resistance of alfalfa at the seedling stage, germplasm innovation and breeding.【Method】Using 111 core germplasms of alfalfa as materials, the single drought resistance coefficients of six traits, namely plant height (PH), shoot fresh weight (SFW), shoot dry weight (SDW), main root length (MRL), root fresh weight (RFW), and root dry weight (RDW), were determined under natural drought stress and normal water supply (control). Combining the analysis methods such as the single drought resistance coefficient, correlation, principal component, membership function, linear stepwise regression, and clustering of each trait of alfalfa, the response differences of each alfalfa germplasm to drought stress were evaluated, the traits and methods for identifying drought resistance at the seedling stage were screened, and the excellent resources of drought resistance at the seedling stage of alfalfa were explored.【Result】The analysis of the single drought resistance coefficient indicated that drought stress significantly inhibited all six traits of alfalfa at the seedling stage. The results of trait correlation showed that there was a positive correlation among the six traits. The principal component results indicated that the six individual drought-resistant traits of alfalfa could be combined into four comprehensive drought-resistant traits, and the cumulative contribution rate reached 86.885%. The methods such as single drought resistance coefficient, correlation, principal component and linear stepwise regression were comprehensively evaluated to determine that SFW, SDW, RFW and RDW were the ideal traits for evaluating alfalfa materials at the seedling stage. Using the classification methods of CDC value and D value, the drought resistance of 111 core germplasm populations of alfalfa at the seedling stage was classified. It was found that there were only subtle differences in the classification of drought resistance of various germplasm by the two drought resistance classification methods. The D values of 111 alfalfa core germplasms were clustered and classified. The various germplasms were divided into 5 categories, which belonged to strongly drought-resistant, moderately drought-resistant, moderately drought-resistant and drought-sensitive germplasms respectively.【Conclusion】Determine that SFW, SDW, RFW and RDW are the best traits for drought resistance evaluation of alfalfa at the seedling stage; The number of highly drought-resistant and relatively drought-resistant materials of alfalfa at the seedling stage excavated was 6 and 25 respectively. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Intelligent Drip Irrigation Water-Fertilizer Coupling Regime Realizes Synergistic Improvement of Soil Water Conservation, Salt Control and Sunflower Yield and Quality HAN ZheQun, SU Ying, GAO QiQi, LIU MeiYing, JIA AngYuan, ZHANG HaiRui, NAN ShanShan, XU QinZheng, WANG Qiang, WANG LiJun, WU XuePing Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (20): 4158-4177.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.20.010 Abstract （517）   HTML （9）    PDF （1395KB）（112）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】In response to the issues of low soil fertility and water-salt imbalance constraining sunflower production in the saline-alkali soils of the Yellow River Irrigation Area (YRIA) in Inner Mongolia, this study investigated the regulatory effects of an intelligent drip irrigation-based water-fertilizer coupling regime on the saline-alkaline soil properties, as well as on sunflower growth and yield.【Method】Based on a two-year field study, this research employed a two-factor split-plot design conducted in Dalate Banner, Inner Mongolia, during 2023-2024. Sunflower was used as the test crop, with two irrigation methods, including surface irrigation and drip irrigation-assigned to the main plots, and four fertilization regimes applied in the sub-plots: chemical fertilizer alone (F), chemical fertilizer plus straw incorporation (FS), chemical fertilizer combined with cow manure (FM), and chemical fertilizer supplemented with high-carbon basal fertilizer (FH). The study evaluated the effects of different water-fertilizer management strategies on soil physicochemical properties, sunflower yield and quality, as well as nutrient physiological efficiency.【Result】Based on the two-year experimental period, the intelligent drip irrigation coupled with integrated water-fertilization practice significantly reduced soil electrical conductivity (EC) in the 0-40 cm layer by 41.2%, increased soil moisture content by 15.0%, elevated nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) content by 37.8%, and enhanced soil organic carbon (SOC) content by 10.8%, compared with traditional flood irrigation with conventional fertilization. Under traditional flood irrigation, the application of organic amendments significantly decreased EC by 7.3%-27.0% and reduced pH by 0.08-0.51 units relative to the chemical-fertilizer-only (F) treatment, while increasing SOC by 3.8%-13.0%, NO3--N by 9.2%-58.2%, available phosphorus (AP) by 32.2%-62.7%, and available potassium (AK) by 12.4%-22.7% in the 0-40 cm soil layer. Under intelligent drip irrigation, organic amendments led to a reduction in EC by 3.7%-28.5% and increased in SOC by 4.3%-9.5%, NO3--N by 17.2%-61.4%, AP by 20.3%-48.8%, and AK by 3.6%-26.6%, compared with F treatment. In terms of crop performance, integrated intelligent drip irrigation with fertigation significantly enhanced sunflower plant height and stem diameter by 16.7% and 85.4%, respectively, over traditional flood irrigation. Nitrogen physiological efficiency (NPE) and phosphorus physiological efficiency (PPE) increased by 26.6% and 34.1%, respectively; biomass yield and grain yield rose by 12.8% and 89.5%, respectively; and water use efficiency (WUE) improved by 67.7%. Under traditional flood irrigation, organic amendments significantly raised plant height by 16.7%-17.5%, PPE by 27.1%, biomass yield by 37.0%-43.9%, grain yield by 6.0%-25.2%, WUE by 6.0%-25.2%, kernel percentage by 13.0%-17.9%, and grain fat content by 9.7% compared with F treatment. Under intelligent drip irrigation, organic amendments significantly improved plant height by 7.6%, NPE by 15.2%-17.2%, PPE by 17.2%, biomass yield by 23.7%, grain yield by 4.6%-20.4%, WUE by 4.6%-20.4%, kernel percentage by 6.2%-10.2%, and grain fat content by 3.3% relative to F treatment. Mantel analysis indicated that biomass yield and grain yield were significantly positively correlated with soil water content, SOC, plant height, stem diameter, NPE, and PPE (P<0.01), and significantly negatively correlated with pH and EC. In summary, the combined application of intelligent drip irrigation with water-fertilizer integration, particularly in conjunction with cow manure or high-carbon basal fertilizer, demonstrated the most favorable outcomes, representing the most suitable water and fertilizer management strategy for saline-alkali soils in the Yellow River irrigation area. 【Conclusion】 The integrated water-fertilizer regime under smart drip irrigation, combined with organic amendments, enhanced saline-alkali soil quality and sunflower productivity by effectively reducing soil salinity, improving nutrient availability, and increasing crop physiological efficiency. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Evaluation of Salt Tolerance in Newly Developed Zhongdan Series Maize Hybrid Varieties and Their Parental Inbred Lines QU HaiYue, HAN JieNan, LI Ran, ZHANG Ze, LIU QianQian, HAO ZhuanFang, WENG JianFeng, ZHANG DeGui, ZHOU ZhiQiang, XU ZhenNan, RONG ZiGuo, WANG JuYing, YONG HongJun, LI MingShun Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (20): 4100-4116.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.20.006 Abstract （515）   HTML （17）    PDF （5426KB）（108）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】The aim of the present study was to explore the correlation between seedling-stage salt tolerance in newly developed maize hybrids and salt tolerance in their parental inbred lines, evaluate the full growth-stage salt tolerance of hybrids with high seedling-stage salt tolerance, and provide resources and data support for development of maize hybrids suitable for saline-alkaline soils.【Method】Sixteen hybrid varieties and 30 parental inbred lines were used as materials for evaluating seedling-stage salt tolerance in 2024. The experiments were conducted in greenhouses at the Institute of Crop Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Two treatments were applied: CK (control) and SA (salt stress treatment). Seedling-stage salt tolerance and correlation analyses were performed by measuring seedling height and biomass. Salt-tolerant hybrids were selected, and leaf yellowing percentage and sodium ion (Na+) content were analyzed in the latest developed leaves to further validate their salt tolerance. Additionally, salt tolerance during the germination stage was tested in hybrid varieties Zhongdan 1130, Zhongdan 1112, and Zhongdan 1118, and yield measurements were carried out in saline-alkaline soils of Dongying City, Shandong Province.【Result】Under 350 mmol·L-1 NaCl stress, seedling height, fresh weight, and dry weight of the 16 hybrid varieties decreased by 53.73%-74.65% when compared with those in the control. Seven hybrids, including Zhengdan 958, Zhongdan 1130, Zhongdan 1112, and Zhongdan 1118, exhibited significantly higher morphological indices and salt tolerance coefficients than the average, demonstrating high salt tolerance. Under 250 mmol·L-1 NaCl stress, salt tolerance was validated for some hybrids. Zhengdan 958 and Zhongdan 1130 exhibited significantly lower leaf yellowing percentages and Na+ contents in their aboveground parts than the salt-sensitive hybrids Zhongdan 153 and Zhongdan 123. Correlation analysis between the salt tolerance of the hybrids and those of their parental lines revealed that the salt tolerance coefficient of the aboveground fresh weight and seedling condition under salt stress of hybrids was significantly correlated with maternal line seedling condition (P<0.05). Kompetitive allele specific PCR analysis indicated no correlation between salt tolerance of hybrids and number of favorable allelic variations at the four salt tolerance loci in the parental inbred lines. In situ trials in moderately saline-alkaline soils throughout the entire growth stage showed that Zhongdan 1130 had a yield of 6 577.50-8 034.71 kg per hectare, which was 14.35%-20.99% higher than that of Zhengdan 958. Zhongdan 1112 yielded 6 415.11-7 720.73 per hectare, with either no yield reduction or an increase of 7.22%-34.22% when compared to that of Zhengdan 958. Zhongdan 1118 yielded 6 075.45-6 958.35 kg per hectare, with a yield increase of 5.62%-10.33% when compared to that of Zhengdan 958. 【Conclusion】Salt tolerance of maize hybrids is correlated with that of parental lines; however, the correlation is significant only with the seedling condition of the maternal line. The number of favorable allelic variations in the salt-tolerance genes SOS1, HKT2, HAK4, and HKT1;2 in the parental lines was not significantly correlated with the salt tolerance of the hybrids. The newly developed hybrid Zhongdan 1130, which has high seedling-stage salt tolerance, exhibited a stable yield increase of > 14.35% in saline-alkaline soils in Shandong compared to that of Zhengdan 958, making it a suitable, high-yielding, salt-tolerant variety for adoption in the Huang-Huai-Hai region. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Identification and Evaluation of Biocontrol Actinomycetes Against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola for Disease Suppression and Growth Promotion in Rice HU JiaYan, SHEN ZhiHan, WEN LiHui, YU JiaHao, ZHANG YuJun, JIANG DongHua Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (17): 3434-3450.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.17.006 Abstract （513）   HTML （32）    PDF （8032KB）（149）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Rice bacterial leaf streak (BLS) is a quarantine-regulated bacterial disease in China caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc), which has severely threatened rice yield and grain quality, becoming one of the main diseases in rice production areas. This study aims to utilize high-quality actinomycete strains to lay a theoretical foundation for developing the products of microbial origin to mitigate crop diseases.【Method】Actinomycete strains were isolated and purified from rhizosphere soil samples of various plants using the serial dilution plating technique. The inhibition ability of different strains against Xoc was compared by measuring the diameter of the inhibition zone. The target strain with the best inhibition effect was selected for preservation and identified through polyphasic characterization integrating morphological traits, physiological-biochemical experiments, and multi-gene alignment analysis. The effects of antagonistic actinomycete on the physiological characteristics of Xoc were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), intracellular β-galactosidase leakage determination and SDS-PAGE gel electrophoresis. The greenhouse pot control effect test was carried out to study the actual benefit of controlling BLS. The growth-promoting characteristics of antagonistic actinomycete were analyzed by designated medium, and its effects on the growth and development of rice seedlings were investigated by watering growth-promoting experiments.【Result】A total of 80 actinomycete strains were isolated. Among them, strain Sv-6 exhibited the most potent antagonism against Xoc, with inhibition zone diameter of (44.87±0.26) mm. Based on the morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis, strain Sv-6 was identified as Streptomyces virginiae. After treatment with the culture filtrate of Sv-6 strain, Xoc cells swelled, shrunk and aggregated. At the same time, the material composition of the membrane surface changed, the permeability increased, and the protein expression decreased. The results of greenhouse pot experiments showed that the lesion inhibition rates of susceptible rice varieties Yongyou 15 and Xiangliangyou 900 were 57.98%-88.25% after being treated with strain Sv-6 culture fluid, which exhibited a good preventive effect on rice infected with Xoc. The growth-promoting characterization confirmed that strain Sv-6 exhibited siderophore production, inorganic phosphate solubilization, and IAA production. The growth-promoting irrigation experiments confirmed that strain Sv-6 enhanced the growth of rice seedlings, and the root length increased by 48.50% after treatment.【Conclusion】S. virginiae Sv-6 exhibits a good control effect on BLS, and has the potential to be developed into green biocontrol agent and microbial fertilizer. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of Different Organic Materials Combined with Chemical Fertilizer on Soil Fertility and Maize Grain Yield WU WenQi, JIAO Yang, XI JiaZhen, WANG XuFeng, GUO BoSen, SHEN YuFang Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (23): 4966-4978.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.23.012 Abstract （508）   HTML （18）    PDF （807KB）（162）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】 This study aimed to explore the effects of different organic amendments combined with chemical fertilizers on maize yield and soil fertility in medium and low yield fields, so as to provide a scientific basis for selecting the best organic fertilization measure. 【Method】 The study focused on medium and low yield fields in Loess Plateau, conducting maize field trials in 2022 and 2023 for two consecutive years. Four organic amendment agent treatments were set up: straw return combined with chemical fertilizer (SF), biochar combined with chemical fertilizer (B), organic fertilizer combined with chemical fertilizer (M), and biological organic fertilizer combined with chemical fertilizer (EM), with chemical fertilizer alone (F) as the control. By measuring maize grain yield and various soil physical, chemical and biological indicators under different treatments, correlation analysis and principal component analysis were used to establish the minimum dataset for evaluation indicators. Fuzzy mathematics was then applied to assess soil fertility. 【Result】 Compared with F treatment, the percentage of soil water-stable macroaggregates (R>0.25) significantly increased by 19.8% and 17.8% under SF and B treatment, respectively, while the percentage of soil aggregates <0.053 mm (R<0.053) significantly decreased by 17.2% and 14.0%; soil moisture content significantly increased by 7.6% and 13.0%, respectively. The M and EM treatments similarly improved the percentage of soil water-stable macroaggregates and surface soil moisture, but the differences were not significant. The application of organic amendments combined with fertilizers improved the geometric mean diameter (GMD) and mean weight diameter (MWD) of soil aggregates, with SF treatment showing a significant increase compared with F treatment, but no significant differences were observed under B and M treatments. Compared with the F treatment, different organic amendment treatments significantly increased soil organic matter content by 16.1%-28.5% and available phosphorus content by 23.1%-195.4%. The DOC under SF treatment and the DON under M treatment showed the most significant increases. The MBC and MBP under EM treatment and the MBN under M treatment were the highest, significantly increasing by 36.9%, 216.4% and 63.3% than that under F treatment, respectively. Compared with the F treatment, the activities of β-glucosidase, N-acetyl-glucosaminidase and leucine aminopeptidase under SF, M and EM treatment increased by 13.3%-57.0%, 21.4%-22.0% and 24.3%-35.1%, respectively. While B treatment showed a significant increase in β-glucosidase activity, but not in N-acetyl-glucosidase and leucine aminopeptidase activity. The soil total enzyme activity index (TEI) ranked as EM>M>SF>B>F treatment, with the EM treatment significantly higher than SF, B and F treatment. The application of organic amendments enhanced soil aggregate structure, increased soil organic matter and nutrient content, and boosted soil enzyme activity, thereby improving soil IFI, with increases ranging from 0.6% to 36.9%, where EM, M and B treatments showed significant increases. Over the two-year trials period, the maize yield was increased significantly by 13.4%-18.5% with the application of organic and biological organic fertilizers compared with F treatment, and the maize yields under these treatments were significantly higher than that under SF treatment. 【Conclusion】 The application of organic amendments combined with chemical fertilizers improved the quality of soil fertility and increased the yield of maize, with M and EM treatment being the most effective. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The Influences of Different Plant Height Combinations of Maize Varieties on Light Distribution in the Canopy and the Photosynthetic Characteristics of Maize Under Maize-Soybean Strip Intercropping Pattern ZHANG MengYu, HE ZaiJu, WANG XingXing, REN Hao, REN BaiZhao, LIU Peng, ZHANG JiWang, ZHAO Bin Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (23): 4886-4904.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.23.007 Abstract （507）   HTML （23）    PDF （1616KB）（123）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】 This study aimed to explore the regulatory effects of different plant height combinations of maize varieties on the light distribution and light resource utilization of the population canopy under the soybean and maize strip intercropping pattern. 【Method】 From 2023 to 2024, four maize varieties with different plant heights were used as experimental materials, including the short-stemmed varieties of MY73 and Denghai 605 (DH605), and the tall varieties of Jingke 968 (JK968) and Xianyu 1466 (XY1466), as well as the soybean variety Qihuang 34. The row configuration of maize and soybean was both 4:4. Different intercropping patterns were set, including intercropping of the same maize variety in all four rows as the control (S-MY, S-DH, S-JK, and S-XY), with 6.75×104 plants/hm2 for each of the four rows and intercropping of tall and short varieties (middle row tall variety JK968, edge row short variety MY73: MY-JK-1, MY-JK-2; middle row tall variety XY1466, edge row short variety DH605: DH-XY-1, DH-XY-2), and two types of planting densities were set, with 6.75×104 plants/hm2 for each of the four rows (MY-JK-1, DH-XY-1), 6.75×104 plants/hm2 for the middle rows, and 8.25×104 plants/hm2 for the edge rows (MY-JK-2, DH-XY-2). The plant spacing of soybean in each treatment was the same. The focus was on analyzing the effects of different intercropping patterns on the canopy structure of the population, light distribution, photosynthetic characteristics of maize and crop yield. 【Result】 The combined planting of maize varieties with different plant height optimized the canopy structure, significantly improved the light transmittance of the spike layer in the maize population, increased the leaf area index and photosynthetic characteristics, and ultimately promoted the increase in total system yield. During the silk production stage, the light transmittance of the spike layer in MY-JK-1 and MY-JK-2 increased by 18.55%-88.22% compared with S-MY and S-JK, and that in DH-XY-1 and DH-XY-2 increased by 39.26%-55.77% compared with S-DH and S-XY. The net photosynthetic rate (Pn) of the four varieties (except MY73) in the tall and short plant combination pattern was all increased. Among them, the Pn of DH605 in the DH-XY-2 pattern is 6.88% higher than that of S-DH, and the Pn of XY1466 in the DH-XY-2 pattern is 10.31% higher than that of S-XY. At the same time, the maximum photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) and potential activity (Fv/Fo) of the spike leaf also increased. The yield of maize under the MY-JK-2 pattern increased by an average of 19.44%, 9.58% and 1.66% over two years compared with the S-MY, S-JK and MY-JK-1 patterns, respectively. The average increase of DH-XY-2 over two years was 30.20%, 14.94% and 9.21% compared with the S-DH, S-XY and DH-XY-1 patterns, respectively. The maize yield (12 536.58 kg·hm-2) and total system yield (14 001.29 kg·hm-2) under the DH-XY-2 pattern were the highest in both years. 【Conclusion】 Compared with the intercropping pattern of single maize varieties, the combined planting of maize varieties with different plant heights could optimize the canopy structure of the population, improve the light distribution of the population canopy, and increase the light transmittance of the maize ear position layer and the photosynthetically active radiation at the top of soybean. At the same time, it improved the leaf area index and photosynthetic characteristics of maize, promoted the accumulation of photosynthetic products, and ultimately increased the total system yield. With the increase of edge row density, the maize yield was further enhanced. Under the conditions of this experiment, in the eastern part of the Huang-Huai-Hai region, it was recommended to use the combined planting of short-stemmed DH605 and tall XY1466, with a middle row density of 6.75×104 plants/hm2 and an edge row density of 8.25×104 plants/hm2. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Construction of Salinity Prediction Model Based on Optimal Selection of Soil Hyperspectral Characteristic Bands LI MingLi, WEN CaiYun, MA DongHao, LI CunJun, WANG YuWen, KANG Lu, LU Miao Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (20): 4054-4069.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.20.003 Abstract （506）   HTML （20）    PDF （6618KB）（140）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Soil salinization is a key environmental problem threatening the sustainable development of agriculture in arid areas, leading to the deterioration of soil structure, crop yield reduction and ecosystem degradation. The purpose of this study is to use spectral transformation, band selection and a variety of machine learning methods to build a soil salinity prediction model, which can quickly and accurately estimate soil salinity, and provide technical support for the scientific management of salinized farmland.【Method】Taking farmland soil in Dalate Banner as the research object, soil samples were collected systematically and their electrical conductivity (EC) and spectral reflectance data were measured. Firstly, Savitzky-Golay (S-G) filter was used to smooth the original spectrum (R). On this basis, 12 kinds of spectral transformation processing including reciprocal, logarithmic, first-order differential and second-order differential were carried out to mine the hidden spectral features. Then, the correlation analysis (CA) and least angle regression (LAR) methods were used to reduce the feature dimension, and the competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) algorithm was combined to further screen the sensitive feature bands. Finally, partial least squares regression (PLSR), support vector machine (SVM), back propagation neural network (BPNN) and random forest (RF) models were constructed based on the optimal features. The performance of the model was comprehensively evaluated by determination coefficient (R2) and root mean square error (RMSE), and the modeling effects of feature sets in different algorithms were compared.【Result】After spectral transformation, the correlation coefficients of the original spectrum were improved in varying degrees, indicating that spectral transformation could significantly enhance the correlation between soil salinity and spectral characteristics; When CARS was used for feature band optimization, LAR had better feature dimension reduction effect than CA; The reciprocal logarithmic first-order differential (ATFD) combined with PLSR model performed best, and its validation set accuracy was R2=0.81, RMSE=2.04 dS·m-1; The comparison of different modeling methods showed that the performance of PLSR prediction model was better than the other three models (BPNN/RF/SVM), indicating that PLSR model was more suitable for the prediction of soil salinity in this region.【Conclusion】The hyperspectral prediction model of soil salinity based on ATFD-LAR-CARS-PLSR has high accuracy and optimal prediction ability, which proves that hyperspectral technology combined with multi-dimensional feature optimization can effectively realize the prediction of soil salinity in arid areas. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Isolation and Identification of Rhizosphere Growth-Promoting Bacteria of Myroides odoratimimus PJ-3 and Their Salt/ Alkali-Tolerance and Growth-Promoting Effects on Maize WU DongMing, XU Jing, YUAN JiaMei, WANG KeXuan, LI YuYi, HE Ping, ZHANG JianFeng, SONG DaLi, GAO Miao, ZHOU Wei Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (20): 4131-4143.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.20.008 Abstract （503）   HTML （18）    PDF （794KB）（148）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Soil salinization is a significant limiting factor for global agricultural production and food security. Based on the mutualistic symbiotic relationships between rhizosphere beneficial bacteria (PGPR) and plants, this study aimed to screen out PGPR strains that possessed multiple functions, such as salt tolerance, alkali tolerance, and promoting growth, with the salt-stressed soil from maize rhizosphere. The study would provide raw materials and theoretical basis for the development of microbial agents for salt-alkali soil improvement and support the comprehensive management of salt-alkali land. 【Method】The PGPR strains were isolated by using the dilution plate coating method. The isolates were identified through morphological and microscopic observation, Biolog Gen III microplate analysis, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A microcosmic experiment was employed to assess the salt-alkali tolerance and plant growth promotion potential (PGP) of the PGPR strains. 【Result】23 PGPR isolates were screened and obtained, and the PJ-3 isolate exhibited the optimal salt-alkali tolerance and PGP potential. It was identified as Myroides odoratimimus with the attributes of Gram-negative. Specifically, the strain PJ-3 possessed a robust fructose-glycolytic pathway and lactic acid-pyruvate and phosphosugar transformation systems, enabling tolerance to extreme saline-alkaline conditions of up to 5% NaCl with a pH of 11. Pot experiments further demonstrated that under moderate saline-alkaline stress, the strain PJ-3 significantly increased maize germination rate of maize by 70% and promoted plant height, leaf length, leaf width, aboveground fresh weight, and belowground fresh weight by over 50%. Further analysis revealed that its superior tolerance and PGP mechanisms included the secretion of proteases, siderophores, and the plant hormone IAA (indole-3-acetic acid), activation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging by antioxidant enzymes SOD (superoxide dismutase) and CAT (catalase) in maize. Moreover, it could stimulate the conservative growth strategy in roots, with the enchantment in root surface area, root tip number, branching frequency and root vigor. As a result, these positive effects improved the improved chlorophyll a-dominated photosynthesis. 【Conclusion】Collectively, it was the first to report that Myroides odoratimimus PJ-3 possesses multiple novel functions, including remarkable salt tolerance, alkali tolerance, and the promotion of both aboveground and belowground development in maize. It demonstrated broad application potential for the integrated management of saline-alkaline lands and agricultural development. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Screening for Soybean Host Factors that Interact with Soybean Mosaic Virus Nuclear Inclusion Proteins Using the Yeast Two-Hybrid System YU Zhe, ZHOU FangXue, LIU RunFa, TIAN YaQi, JIHAO MuHa, WANG YongXiang, FENG WenMi, MOU KeXin, JING Yan, LI HaiYan Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (19): 3799-3813.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.19.001 Abstract （503）   HTML （25）    PDF （2157KB）（158）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) is one of the most damaging viral diseases of soybean, which seriously affects soybean yield and quality. Identification of host proteins interacting with SMV nuclear inclusion proteins (NIa-Pro and NIb) using yeast two-hybrid library screening, aiming to establish a theoretical foundation and propose novel perspectives insights into the molecular mechanisms of SMV infection and soybean resistance.【Method】Firstly, the coding sequences of NIa-Pro and NIb were cloned from the SMV strain SMV-HN and recombined into the pGBKT7 vector to construct the bait plasmids, and then soybean proteins interacting with the two viral functional proteins were identified by yeast library screening. Secondly, the host gene GmOEP16 encoding Outer Envelope Pore Protein 16 (OEP16) was cloned, and the interactions of GmOEP16 with NIa-Pro and NIb were clarified by yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and luciferase complementation assay (LCA). Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to analyse the expression pattern of GmOEP16 under SMV treatment and exogenous hormone induction. Finally, virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) was used to validate the function of GmOEP16 gene in SMV disease response.【Result】pGBKT7-NIa-Pro and pGBKT7-NIb recombinant plasmids were successfully constructed, and 12 soybean host proteins were screened for interactions with NIa-Pro and NIb, respectively. The Y2H assay was further used to verify that NIa-Pro interacted with GmOEP16 and GmDEG5, and NIb interacted with GmOEP16, GmZC3H18 and GmAHP1. The LCA assay was further used to clarify that GmOEP16 interacted with both NIa-Pro and NIb. Expression analysis revealed that GmOEP16 was induced by SMV infection and responded rapidly to salicylic acid (SA) and abscisic acid (ABA) stimuli during early response. The VIGS assay showed that effectively silencing of GmOEP16 resulted in no obvious susceptibility phenotype in leaf tissues relative to the wild-type controls. Meanwhile, the expression of SMV-CP was significantly reduced in the GmOEP16-silenced plants, suggesting that the soybean resistance to SMV was enhanced. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that GmOEP16 could function as a negative regulator of SMV resistance in soybean.【Conclusion】The pGBKT7-NIa-Pro and pGBKT7-NIb bait vectors were successfully constructed, and each 12 soybean host proteins that respectively interacted with pGBKT7-NIa-Pro and pGBKT7-NIb were identified. Among them, GmOEP16 interacted with both NIa-Pro and NIb. GmOEP16 responded to SMV induction and negatively regulated SMV resistance, which promoted SMV infection on soybeans. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Characterization of Crop Yield and Nutrient Apparent Balance Between Direct and Burning Straw Return in Rice-Rapeseed Rotation System XIONG ZhiHao, LIU JunQuan, YE Lin, ZHU DanDan, HOU SuSu, FANG YaTing, CONG RiHuan, REN Tao, LI XiaoKun, LU JianWei Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (16): 3293-3303.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.16.012 Abstract （503）   HTML （16）    PDF （557KB）（108）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】This study aimed to investigate the effects of long-term different straw return methods on productivity and apparent balance of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium nutrients in rice-rapeseed rotation system, in order to provide the theoretical basis for the efficient utilization of straw resources in the rotation system.【Method】The field experiment was located in Wuxue City, Hubei Province, and started in 2014, with three treatments of straw not return (NPK), direct straw return (NPK+St) and burning straw return (NPK+Sb), to determine and analyze the yields, nitrogen/phosphorus/potassium nutrient uptake and their apparent balances and other related indicators of rice and rapeseed in the consecutive 10-year period from 2014 to 2024.【Result】The average results of the 10-year experiment showed that compared with the NPK treatment, the rice and rapeseed yield in the NPK+St treatment increased significantly by 7.7% and 10.7%, respectively; the rapeseed yield in the NPK+Sb treatment increased significantly by 5.2%, and the effect of yield increase on rice was not significant. The yield increase effects of NPK+Sb and NPK+St increased with the increase in years of straw return, and in the 6th year reached the significant level. Based on the annual nutrient uptake characteristics, compared with the NPK treatment, the annual nitrogen uptake in the NPK+St and NPK+Sb treatments increased by an average of 11.6% and 2.9%, respectively, the annual phosphorus uptake increased by an average of 11.9% and 10.2%, respectively, and the annual potassium accumulation increased by an average of 55.8% and 39.1%, respectively. Direct straw return significantly enhanced the absorption of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium nutrients in the rotation system. Burning straw return effectively increased the absorption of phosphorus and potassium nutrients in the rotation system. The annual nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium surplus of rice-rapeseed rotation in the NPK treatment were 101.3 kg N·hm-2·a-1, -8.9 kg P2O5·hm-2·a-1 and -296.6 kg K2O·hm-2·a-1, respectively. The annual nitrogen surplus in the NPK+St treatment averaged 166.1 kg N·hm-2·a-1, with an increase of 64.0%. The annual phosphorus and potassium nutrient surpluses were realized for both NPK+St and NPK+Sb treatments, with surpluses of 33.0 and 19.0 kg P2O5·hm-2·a-1, 79.4 and 21.3 kg K2O·hm-2·a-1, respectively. 【Conclusion】Direct and burning straw return significantly increased the crops production potential and nutrient uptake by promoting nutrient cycling in the rice-rapeseed rotation system. The effect of stabilizing rice yield and increasing rapeseed yield was shown among the different crops in the rotation. The straw direct return was more favorable to increase crop yield and to maintain the nutrient balance of the farmland than the straw burning return. Therefore, it was recommended to promote the direct straw return approach in the process of farmland production in order to fully utilize its advantages of yield enhancement, stabilization, and nutrient balancing, and to promote the sustainable development of the rice-oil rotation system. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Impacts of Varying Row Ratio Arrangements on Plant Performance, Stand Yield, and Comprehensive Benefits in Soybean-Maize Strip intercropping FANG Jian, QIN ZhaoJi, YU YuanYuan, YU NingNing, ZHAO Bin, LIU Peng, REN BaiZhao, ZHANG JiWang Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (23): 4841-4857.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.23.004 Abstract （501）   HTML （23）    PDF （1006KB）（125）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】 To optimize the soybean-maize intercropping system in the Huang-Huai-Hai region, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of different row ratio configurations on crop agronomic traits, canopy structure of the population, yield components, edge effects, and overall economic benefits. The goal was to identify suitable row ratio configurations, thereby improving land resource use efficiency and economic returns. 【Method】 Three row ratio configurations were implemented: 4 rows of soybean intercropped with 2 rows of maize (4:2), 6 rows of soybean intercropped with 4 rows of maize (6:4), and 4 rows of soybean intercropped with 4 rows of maize (4:4), using monoculture soybean (SCK) and monoculture maize (MCK) as controls. Crop dry matter accumulation, leaf area index (LAI), relative chlorophyll content (SPAD), canopy light transmittance, and yield components were measured. The inner and outer row sampling approach was adopted to evaluate edge effects and overall economic benefits. 【Result】 Compared with monoculture, intercropping significantly decreased per-plant dry matter accumulation in maize during the filling, milking, and maturity stages, and in soybean during the full flowering, full pod, grain filling, and full maturity stages. Among the row ratio configurations, maize exhibited maximum per-plant dry matter accumulation under the 4:4 pattern, whereas soybean achieved its highest accumulation under the 6:4 pattern. Row ratio configurations significantly influenced inter-row variations in dry matter accumulation and yield for both crops. Maize yield followed the order 4:4 pattern>4:2 pattern>6:4 pattern, representing reductions of 15.22%, 18.02%, and 12.62% relative to MCK, respectively; soybean yield followed the order 6:4 pattern>4:4 pattern>4:2 pattern, corresponding to reductions of 55.99%, 50.43%, and 56.00% compared with SCK, respectively. Intercropped maize exhibited pronounced edge advantage, with border row maize yields significantly exceeding those of inner rows. Within the intercropping system, both maize and soybean demonstrated lower canopy light transmittance, LAI, and SPAD values compared with their monoculture counterparts. Maize canopy light transmittance, LAI, and SPAD values followed the consistent ranking: 4:4 pattern>4:2 pattern>6:4 pattern; soybean canopy light transmittance followed 4:4 pattern>6:4 pattern>4:2 pattern, while its LAI and SPAD values mirrored the ranking pattern observed in maize. Maize LAI was significantly influenced by row ratio configuration, whereas no significant inter-row variations were detected for maize SPAD values or for soybean LAI and SPAD values. In evaluations of economic returns and intercropping advantages, the 4:4 pattern configuration demonstrated superior performance, achieving the highest values for land equivalent ratio (LER), relative crowding coefficient (K), and economic benefits. Maize in intercropping exhibited higher LER and K values relative to soybean, with the maize competition ratio (CRm) being significantly greater than that of soybean (CRs) (CRm>1, CRs<1), demonstrating maize's competitive dominance in interspecific competition. 【Conclusion】 Although intercropping reduced per-plant dry matter accumulation, LAI, and SPAD values for both crops compared with monoculture, it significantly increased the land equivalent ratio (LER) and overall economic benefits. Under the experimental conditions, the 4:4 pattern exhibited more optimal canopy architecture, with maize demonstrating pronounced edge advantage. This system maintained maize yield while generating additional soybean income, thereby achieving the synergistic enhancement of total productivity and economic returns. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The Breeding Goals and Strategies of Northeast Japonica Rice Under the Background of Zhongke Fa No.5 MA ZhaoHui, QUAN ChengZhe, CHENG HaiTao, YANG KanJie, LI XinRui, LÜ WenYan Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2026, 59 (5): 927-936.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.05.001 Abstract （496）   HTML （24）    PDF （479KB）（189）       Knowledge map    Save The new rice variety, Zhongke Fa No.5, was developed by the team led by Academician Li Jiayang using the concept of molecular design breeding. By combining phenotypic and molecular marker selection, it has integrated the genotype combination of multiple copies of GL7, GS3, and GW5, resulting in slender grains. It also contains high-yield QTLs such as qSB2, qSB8, qSB10, and SCM2, and carries the blast resistance alleles Pib, qBR10, Pi-ta and Ptr. Based on this, this variety demonstrates outstanding agronomic traits including high yield, multi-resistance and excellent quality. In 2014, it ranked among China’s top ten cultivated varieties and has become a signature variety in Northeast China. In the face of this situation, in the future, Northeastern japonica rice should take it as a benchmark and strive to surpass it. Taking into account the supply and demand situation of rice, the overall breeding goal should be a long-grain fragrant variety with high yield. Specifically, the yield target should be above 9 500.0 kg·hm-2, and the trait combination to achieve this target is a plant height of 95.0-105.0 cm, a total of 3.75 million to 4.2 million effective panicle number per hectare, a grain number of 120.0 or more per spike, and a thousand-grain weight of more than 25.0 grams. The quality target is a grain length greater than 6.0 mm, a length-to-width ratio greater than 2.8, an overall polished rice rate meeting the approved standards, excellent appearance, a taste score of over 80 points. And it also has good adaptability and resistance. To achieve this goal, the first step is to enhance dialectical thinking. In practice, we must resolutely eliminate a large number of materials that fail to meet the breeding objectives. At the same time, we should strengthen the practice of combining superior traits and the dialectical thinking of their adaptability to local cultivation conditions. During the breeding process, high-yield resources and long-grain resources should be coordinated and utilized, and multiple cross should be strengthened. At the same time, the breeding process should be optimized, and modern breeding technologies such as molecular breeding should be actively adopted. The key to the breeding strategy lies in expanding the application of hybrid rice restorer lines derived from indica-japonica subtypes, especially those of high-yield indica-japonica three-line hybrids. Since the high-yield three-line hybrids themselves have a relatively high yield, and their gametes have extensive recombination, there is greater expectation for the emergence of breakthrough types. To better achieve the breeding goals of long-grain rice, it seems that using japonica rice restorer lines with wide compatibility and crossing them with long-grain indica hybrid rice is the best strategy. However, further verification is needed. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Comprehensive Evaluation of the Maize-Soybean Intercropping Pattern in the Huang-Huai Region YANG ShuQi, ZHAO YingXing, QIAN Xin, ZHANG XuePeng, MENG WeiWei, SUI Peng, LI ZongXin, CHEN YuanQuan Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (23): 4936-4951.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.23.010 Abstract （493）   HTML （10）    PDF （1916KB）（86）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】 Based on of “High-Yield and High-Efficiency Maize-Soybean Intercropping Technology R&D and Integrated Demonstration” project of National Key Research and Development Program in the 14th Five-Year Plan seven demonstration sites were established across Shandong, Henan, Anhui, and Jiangsu Provinces. Key technology research and integrated demonstrations were conducted. To comprehensively evaluate the yield performance, economic benefits, and ecological effects of the project demonstration sites, this study conducted a systematic assessment using neighboring farmers as a control, so as to provide a scientific basis for optimizing maize-soybean intercropping in the region. 【Method】 A comprehensive evaluation index system was established, covering three dimensions: yield, economy, and ecology. Through field surveys in seven demonstration sites and their neighboring farms, the differences in overall benefits of maize-soybean intercropping between the demonstration fields and local farmers were assessed. 【Result】 For yield, the intercropping in the demonstration fields was about 10% to 19% higher compared with neighboring farmers. In terms of economic benefits, the net output value per unit area in the demonstration sites was 5% to 21% higher on average. However, input costs increased by 7% to 15%, resulting in a net benefit per unit area only 2% to 18% higher. From an ecological perspective, the carbon footprint of the demonstration areas was approximately 9% to 34% higher than that of surrounding farmers, and the nitrogen footprint was 5% to 45% higher. This was mainly due to the increased use of fertilizers and diesel to ensure high yields. Based on the differences in yield, economic, and ecological dimensions between surrounding farmers and the demonstration areas, the CVI (comprehensive variation index) levels of all seven demonstration areas were at a moderate difference level (corresponding value of level 3). Among them, the ECI (economic convergence index) performed well (levels 3 to 4), especially with the smallest land output rate differences (the North Shandong, North Anhui, and North Jiangsu regions reaching the optimal level 5). This further proved that although surrounding farmers had lower yields and land output, the high inputs in the demonstration areas reduced the unit output efficiency, objectively narrowing the net profit gap with surrounding farmers and supporting the higher ECI value. The main limitation for the improvement of the comprehensive index in all regions was the relatively low yield, as the YCI (yield convergence index) of all regions concentrated at the poor level of 1 to 2. 【Conclusion】 The technological innovation and application of the project had a positive effect on promoting the yield and economic benefits of maize and soybean intercropping in the Huang-Huai region. But its sustainable promotion still faces challenges, such as rising costs and increasing ecological pressure. Finding ways to reduce costs and improve efficiency was therefore a key focus for the next stage of technological innovation. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Assessment of Salt Tolerance and Screening of Salt Tolerant Germplasm in Sorghum Seedling Stage MENG ZiNuo, FU ChangQing, ZHANG LingYu, GAO ShunJuan, CHANG JinHua, CUI JiangHui Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (16): 3317-3326.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.16.014 Abstract （493）   HTML （35）    PDF （2800KB）（150）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】To screen salt-tolerant sorghum germplasm resources and identify the key indicators for evaluating sorghum salt tolerance, so as to provide a scientific basis for the subsequent research on salt-tolerant germplasm and the stress-resistant cultivation of sorghum in saline soils. 【Method】Using 160 domestic sorghum varieties (lines) and 25 foreign varieties (lines), totaling 185 sorghum varieties (lines) from different countries and regions as experimental materials, the relative values of 9 trait indicators (germination potential, germination rate, seedling length, seedling dry weight, seedling fresh weight, root length, root dry weight, root fresh weight, and number of lateral roots) were analyzed under 150 mmol·L-1NaCl solution treatment with vermiculite as the substrate. Correlation analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), cluster analysis, and subordinate function method were employed to screen salt-tolerant germplasm resources. Piecewise linear regression and multiple stepwise linear regression were used to identify key indicators determining sorghum salt tolerance at the seedling stage and conduct comprehensive evaluation.【Result】Under salt stress conditions, the 9 trait indicators of sorghum at the seedling stage showed varying degrees of variation. Among them, seedling dry weight exhibited the most significant variation, while lateral root number was least affected. Correlation analysis revealed diverse relationships among the traits: Relative germination rate showed negative correlations with relative seedling length and relative lateral root number, whereas all other traits displayed positive correlations. The highest correlation coefficient (0.54) was observed between relative seedling length and relative root length. Through principal component analysis (PCA), the 9 traits were reduced to 4 comprehensive indicators, accounting for 72.10% of the cumulative variance. The subordinate function method was applied to calculate the comprehensive D values for all 185 varieties. Cluster analysis using the hclust function in R categorized the sorghum accessions into four salt-tolerance groups: highly salt-tolerant, salt-tolerant, moderately salt-tolerant, and salt-sensitive. Taking the comprehensive D value as the dependent variable and the other 9 indicators as independent variables, piecewise linear regression models were constructed, showing positive trends between all traits and D values. A multiple stepwise linear regression equation was further established: F=0.25RGR+0.255RSL+0.377RGP+0.283RSFW, (R2=0.894, P<0.01).【Conclusion】Thus, the germination potential, germination rate, seedling length and seedling weight were the key indicators for screening sorghum salt tolerant varieties in 150 mmol·L-1 NaCl environment. Among the high salt tolerance varieties, sweet 319, Xin 52, MY 2, sweet 11, Sudan 1-2, and sensitive salt varieties S29241, N2902, 6-5A, IS-3977, 90111 were selected. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of Density Increase on Dynamic Change of Yield and Agronomic Traits of Maize Cultivars with Different Plant Heights LI SiYuan, LI HongPing, CHANG HongQing, ZHANG SenYan, LI SiJia, CUI XinFei, QIAO Po, ZENG Bo, LIU GuiZhen, LIU TianXue, TANG JiHua, LI ChaoHai Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2026, 59 (5): 967-984.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.05.004 Abstract （491）   HTML （37）    PDF （4842KB）（299）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】 The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in the effects of increasing planting density on the dynamic change of agronomic traits, yield and its components among maize cultivars with different plant heights, and to clarify the stable yield mechanism of dwarf maize cultivar under high density for providing a theoretical basis for exploring the high-yield potential of maize and breeding dwarf maize cultivars with high-yield under high planting density.【Method】 A two-factor experiment was conducted during the 2023 and 2024 maize growing seasons. Three maize cultivars with different plant height were used as test materials: tall-stalk variety Xianyu 335 (XY335), medium-stalk variety Zhengdan 958 (ZD958), and dwarf-stalk variety MY73. Nine planting densities were set: 60 000 (D1), 67 500 (D2), 75 000 (D3), 82 500 (D4), 90 000 (D5), 97 500 (D6), 105 000 (D7), 112 500 (D8), and 120 000 plants/hm2. The effects of planting density on agronomic traits related to plants, leaves, ears, kernels, and yield of maize cultivars with different plant height were investigated. Analysis of variance was used to statistically evaluate the significance of differences in each index among different cultivars at the same density and among different densities for the same cultivar. The dynamic changes in leaf area index (LAI) were analyzed using the BiHil model.【Result】 The density ranges for achieving high yields of XY335, ZD958 and MY73 across the two-year experiment were 60 000-67 500, 67 500-82 500, and 82 500-97 500 plants/hm2, respectively. The average of the highest yields of MY73 over two years was 11.1% and 6.8% significantly higher than that of ZD958 and XY335, respectively. There were no significant differences in lodging rate among the three cultivars under the low-density of D1 and D2. Starting from the D3 density, the lodging rate of the dwarf-stalk variety MY73 was significantly lower than that of the tall-stature variety XY335 and the medium-stature variety ZD958 with increasing planting density, and the lodging rates of ZD958 and XY335 increased significantly, with their two-year average lodging rates ranging from 10.4% to 66.6% and from 11.6% to 82.8%, respectively. In contrast, MY73 exhibited no lodging in 2023, and only lodged at the D9 density in 2024 with a lodging rate of 1.1%. Affected by lodging and other factors, the number of effective ears per unit area of dwarf-stalk cultivar MY73 gradually increased with increasing density, while those of tall-stalk XY335 and medium-stalk ZD958 increased firstly and then decreased. Under high planting density, the number of effective ears per unit area of MY73 was significantly higher than that of XY335 and ZD958. With density increasing, the plant height and LAI of all cultivars gradually increased. MY73 had the smallest increase in plant height and the largest increase in LAI, and its plant height was significantly lower than that of XY335 and ZD958 under all densities. The kernel setting rate, harvest index, shelling percentage, and grain bulk density of MY73 were significantly higher than those of XY335 and ZD958 under all densities, with the harvest index of MY73 remaining stable around 0.6 under all densities. After increasing density, the kernel setting rate, kernel weight per ear, and harvest index of all cultivars gradually decreased, and MY73 showed the smallest decrease relative to the other two cultivars. Compared with density D1, the average decreases in kernel setting rate, kernel weight per ear, and harvest index of MY73 across all densities over two years were 44.0% and 30.5%, 39.5% and 29.4%, and 96.3% and 94.6% smaller than those of XY335 and ZD958, respectively.【Conclusion】 The coefficient of variation of the yield and its components, and plant agronomic traits of MY73 was smaller with increasing planting density, and the magnitude of reduction of green leaf area per plant for MY73 was also smaller with growth period progress. MY73 exhibited lower lodging rate, and higher number of effective ears per unit area, kernel-setting rate, grain bulk density, shelling percentage, harvest index, and grain yield, when the density exceeded 97 500 plants/hm2. These characteristics constitute the key mechanism for the high and stable yield of the dwarf-stalk cultivar MY73 under high planting density in this study. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of Long-Term Chemical Fertilizer and Organic Material Application on Crop Yield and Nutrient Utilization in Rice-Rapeseed Rotation System FANG YaTing, ZHAO Jian, SHENG QianNan, LI KaiXu, WANG XiangHua, ZHANG YangYang, ZHU Jun, CONG RiHuan, LU ZhiFeng, LI XiaoKun, REN Tao, LU JianWei Scientia Agricultura Sinica    2025, 58 (16): 3164-3177.   DOI: 10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2025.16.002 Abstract （490）   HTML （45）    PDF （1104KB）（212）       Knowledge map    Save 【Objective】The application of chemical fertilizers and organic materials is a crucial measure for increasing agricultural production. Rice-rapeseed rotation system is a primary paddy-upland crop rotation pattern in the Yangtze River basin of China. Clarifying the impact of chemical fertilizers and organic material inputs on the annual crop yield and nutrient utilization in rice-rapeseed rotation could provide a scientific basis for ensuring food and oil security and achieving green and sustainable agricultural development. 【Method】From 2017 to 2022, a continuous field experiment was conducted at the Huazhong Agricultural University's Shayang Experimental Station in Shayang County, Hubei Province. Four treatments were established: no fertilizer (CK), chemical fertilizer only (NPK), chemical fertilizer with straw return (NPK+S), and chemical fertilizer with straw return plus organic fertilizer (NPK+S+M). The crop yields, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) nutrient absorption of rapeseed and rice were analyzed. The nutrient use efficiency, apparent nutrient balances, and their relationships with yield were also assessed.【Result】The average results over 6 years showed that compared with no fertilization, the application of chemical fertilizers and organic materials significantly increased the yield of rapeseed (493.5%-758.8%) and rice (94.3%-106.4%), and enhanced crop yield stability (24.6%-72.1%) and sustainability (17.2%-85.0%). Compared with the NPK treatment, the NPK+S treatment increased the yield of rapeseed by 6.3%, but decreased yield stability and sustainability; it decreased the yield of rice by 0.8%, but increased yield stability and sustainability. The NPK+S+M treatment increased the yield of rapeseed and rice by 44.7% and 5.4%, respectively, and improved the sustainability of yield. Throughout the rotation cycle, nutrient uptake by rapeseed was consistently lower than that by rice across all treatments. The addition of organic materials significantly enhanced nutrient uptake in both rapeseed and rice. Relative to the NPK treatment, the NPK+S+M treatment resulted in increases of 5.1%-91.2% in average nutrient uptake and 12.2%-100.4% in trend nutrient uptake. The NPK+S treatment did not significantly differ from the NPK treatment in average nutrient uptake but exhibited a 7.7%-25.4% higher trend nutrient uptake. The input of organic materials decreased the physiological nutrient use efficiency of rapeseed and rice. Compared with the NPK treatment, the physiological N use efficiency of rapeseed and rice in the NPK+S+M treatment decreased by 3.0 and 3.7 percentage points, respectively, and the physiological P use efficiency decreased by 19.3 and 25.5 percentage points, respectively. Further analysis revealed that the application of organic materials led to higher apparent nutrient surpluses, which caused the annual increase in the cumulative yield of crops in the rice-rapeseed rotation. The cumulative apparent nutrient surplus was significantly positively correlated with the cumulative crop yield. 【Conclusion】The application of chemical fertilizers and organic materials significantly increased crop yields and nutrient use efficiency, and its effects were jointly influenced by crop and nutrient type. Increasing organic fertilization along with chemical fertilizers and straw application could further enhance soil fertility and increase crop yield; however, efforts should focus on improving the physiological nutrient use efficiency to fully realize the potential of organic amendments for sustainable grain and oil production. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics