Introducing more modern agricultural practices in Brazil could save farmers more than USD 20 billion in coming decades via a reduction in the use of phosphate fertilizer alone, a study by the University of São Paulo shows.
Known as pineapple sett rot, the disease reduces cane budding by up to 50%. Results obtained by scientists in Brazil will bolster the search for biological fungicides that offer an alternative to agrochemicals.
The strategy was tested at the Federal University of São Carlos and found to permit a reduction in the amount of fertilizer used by farmers, mitigating its environmental impact.
Developed by researchers at the University of São Paulo, the non-invasive methodology facilitates identification of immature or poor-quality seeds without destroying them or creating residues.
In an article published in Scientific Reports, Brazilian researchers show that besides simplifying operational logistics and improving production, fertilization of the grass used as a cover crop can reduce fertilizer use in the long run.
Startup supported by FAPESP has developed equipment for biological control of pests that affect soybean and cotton production.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo conducted field experiments to estimate the impact of drought and rising temperatures on soil quality and plant health.
The estimate comes from a research project supported by FAPESP to produce scientific input for implementation of Brazil’s new forest code in the state.
Food engineers in Brazil and France developed gels based on modified starch for use as “ink” to make foods and novel materials by additive manufacturing.
The largest database of plant viruses in Brazil serves as a tool for researchers, growers and policymakers.
The protein, which is involved in the mechanism of the plant’s response to water and thermal stresses and to invasion by fungi, has been named DRIK1. It could help develop drought-resistant plant varieties and products that reduce losses related to climate change.
The new Engineering Research Center will be hosted by São Paulo State University’s School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences in Jaboticabal. Its scientists will also research biotechnology and plant resistance.
Studies of food crops such as corn, sugarcane, rice, wheat, soybeans and cocoa, as well as rubber trees, were presented at an event organized by FAPESP and the Japanese agency JST to foster collaboration between researchers from São Paulo State and Japan.
With FAPESP’s support, researchers have succeeded in mapping 99.1% of the plant’s genes, providing knowledge that will help improve its resistance to disease and increase its biomass yield for fuel or sugar production.
In a search for more sustainable alternatives for agriculture, researchers at UNESP are developing systems to encapsulate synthetic pesticides as well as compounds of botanical, fungal, and bacterial origin; results were presented at FAPESP Week France.
Brazilian researcher reports during his lecture at FAPESP Week France that socioterritorial movements are creating alternatives to agribusiness based on sustainable development and healthy food.
Available online for free, polyploid mapping system developed in Brazil helps breeders of sugarcane, kiwi, blueberry, sweet potato and forages, among other crops.
In an article published in PNAS, Brazilian researchers stress the need for agricultural management that favors the maintenance of wildlife.
