2025 is the Year of the Snake in the Chinese lunar calendar.The Snake symbolizes wisdom and wealth,both welcome assets for crop science and scientists.In bidding farewell to the old and ushering in the new,I would lik...2025 is the Year of the Snake in the Chinese lunar calendar.The Snake symbolizes wisdom and wealth,both welcome assets for crop science and scientists.In bidding farewell to the old and ushering in the new,I would like to thank all editors and reviewers who have generously contributed their time,effort,and expertise to The Crop Journal.I thank our devoted authors and readers for being a part of our journal community.Without all their hard work and passion,The Crop Journal is a mission impossible.展开更多
The International Crop Science Congress(ICSC) is a regularly held event allowing crop scientists to integrate current knowledge into a global context and international applications.The 7th ICSC was held on August 14–...The International Crop Science Congress(ICSC) is a regularly held event allowing crop scientists to integrate current knowledge into a global context and international applications.The 7th ICSC was held on August 14–19,2016 in Beijing,China,with the theme "Crop Science:Innovation and Sustainability".As a companion production for this great congress,the nine papers collected in this special issue feature important fields of crop science in China.This editorial first briefly introduces the 7th ICSC,followed by a brief discussion of the current status of,constraints to,and innovations in Chinese agriculture and crop science.Finally,the main scientific points of the papers published in this special issue are surveyed,covering important advances in hybrid rice breeding,minor cereals,food legumes,rapeseed,crop systems,crop management,cotton,genomics-based germplasm research,and QTL mapping.In a section describing future prospects,it is indicated that China faces a full transition from traditional to modern agriculture and crop science.展开更多
As global population increases and demands for food supplies become greater,we face great challenges in providing more products and in larger quantities from less arable land.Crop science has gained increasing importa...As global population increases and demands for food supplies become greater,we face great challenges in providing more products and in larger quantities from less arable land.Crop science has gained increasing importance in meeting these challenges and results of scientific research must be communicated worldwide on a regular basis.In many countries,however,crop scientists have to publish the results of their investigations in national journals with heterogeneous con-展开更多
Salt stress is a global constraint on agricultural production.Therefore,the development of salt tolerant plants has become a current research hotspot.While salt tolerance has evolved more frequently in C_(4) grass lin...Salt stress is a global constraint on agricultural production.Therefore,the development of salt tolerant plants has become a current research hotspot.While salt tolerance has evolved more frequently in C_(4) grass lineages,few studies have explored the molecular bases underlying salt stress tolerance in the C_(4) crop foxtail millet.In this study,we used a multi-pronged approach spanning the omics analyses of transcriptomes and physiological analysis of the C_(3) crop rice and the C_(4) model crop foxtail millet to investigate their responses to salt stress.The results revealed that compared to C_(3) rice,C_(4) foxtail millet has upregulated abscisic acid(ABA)and notably reduced CK biosynthesis and signaling transduction under salt stress.Salt stress in C_(3) rice plants triggered rapid downregulation of photosynthesis related genes,which was coupled with severely reduced net photosynthetic rates.In the salt-treated C_(3) rice and C_(4) foxtail millet,some stress responsive transcription factors(TFs),such as AP2/ERF,WRKY and MYB,underwent strong and distinct transcriptional changes.Based on a weighted gene co-expression network analysis(WGCNA),the AP2/ERF transcription factor Rice Starch Regulator1 SiRSR1(Seita.3G044600)was identified as a key regulator of the salt stress response.To confirm its function,we generated OsRSR1-knockout lines using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in rice and its upstream repressor SimiR172a-overexpressing(172a-OE)transgenic plants in foxtail millet,which both showed increased salt tolerance.Overall,this study not only provides new insights into the convergent regulation of the salt stress responses of foxtail millet and rice,but it also sheds light on the divergent signaling networks between them in response to salt stress.展开更多
Intercropping has been widely used in arid and semi-arid regions because of its high yield,stable productivity,and efficient utilization of resources.However,in recent years,the high yield of traditional intercropping...Intercropping has been widely used in arid and semi-arid regions because of its high yield,stable productivity,and efficient utilization of resources.However,in recent years,the high yield of traditional intercropping is mainly attributed to the large amount of purchased resources such as water and fertilizer,plastic film,and mechanical power.These lead to a decline in cultivated land quality and exacerbate intercrops'premature root and canopy senescence.So,the application of traditional intercropping faces major challenges in crop production.This paper analyzes the manifestations,occurrence mechanisms,and agronomic regulatory pathways of crop senescence.The physiological and ecological characteristics of intercropping to delay root and canopy senescence of crops are reviewed in this paper.The main agronomic regulatory pathways of intercropping to delay root and canopy senescence of crops are based on above-and blow-ground interactions,including collocation of crop varieties,spatial arrangement,water and fertilizer management,and tillage and mulch practices.Future research fields of intercropping to delay root and canopy senescence should focus on the aspects of selecting and breeding special varieties,application of molecular biology techniques,and developing or applying models to predict and evaluate the root and canopy senescence process of intercrops.Comprehensive analysis and evaluation of different research results could provide a basis for enhancing intercropping delay root and canopy senescence through adopting innovative technologies for regulating the physio-ecological characteristics of intercrops.This would support developing and adopting high-yield,efficient,and sustainable intercropping systems in arid and semi-arid areas with high population density,limited land,and abundant light and heat resources.展开更多
A critical challenge for global food security and sustainable agriculture is enhancing crop yields while reducing chemical N inputs.Improving N use efficiency in crops is essential for increasing agricultural producti...A critical challenge for global food security and sustainable agriculture is enhancing crop yields while reducing chemical N inputs.Improving N use efficiency in crops is essential for increasing agricultural productivity.The aim of this study was to evaluate the impacts of intercropping maize with leguminous green manure on grain yield and N utilization under reduced N-fertilization conditions.A field experiment with a split-plot design was conducted in northwestern China from 2018 to 2021.The main plots consisted of two cropping systems:maize-common vetch intercropping(IM)and sole maize(SM).The subplots had three N levels:zero N application(N0,0 kg ha^(-1)),a 25%reduction from the traditional chemical N supply(N1,270 kg ha^(-1)),and the traditional chemical N supply(N2,360 kg ha^(-1)).The results showed that the negative effects of N reduction on maize grain yield and N uptake were compensated by intercropping leguminous green manure,and the improvements increased with cultivation years.The integrated system involving maize-leguminous green manure intercropping and a reduced N supply enhanced N translocation from maize vegetative organs to grains and increased the nitrate reductase and glutamine synthetase activities in maize leaves.The supercompensatory effect in maize leaves increased year by year,reaching values of 16.1,21.3,and 25.5%in 2019,2020,and 2021,respectively.These findings suggest that intercropping maize with leguminous green manure under reduced chemical N input can enhance N assimilation and uptake in maize.By using this strategy,chemical fertilizer is effectively replaced by leguminous green manure,thereby improving N use efficiency and maintaining stable yields in the maize-based intercropping system.展开更多
Modern crops were derived from wild ancestors between 8000 and 12,000 years ago in a process called domestication,when humans selected plant types that gave better yield.For cereal plants,they carry so-called “domest...Modern crops were derived from wild ancestors between 8000 and 12,000 years ago in a process called domestication,when humans selected plant types that gave better yield.For cereal plants,they carry so-called “domestication syndromes”,such as non-shattering spikes,free threshing grains,shorter seed dormancy,and larger grain size[1].But these early crop breeders selected only a small number of domesticated plants to satisfy their limited need,leading to a phenomenon called “domestication bottleneck”resulting in restricted genetic diversity among crop cultivars.Untapped crop wild relatives(CWRs)remain a source of traits to be bred into new cultivars with resilience to challenges facing modern agriculture.展开更多
Despite its negative impacts on plant functioning,climate change benefits plants at the cellular level.For example,the stimulation of C3 photosynthesis by elevated CO_(2)can increase N2 fixation by 73%and grain yield ...Despite its negative impacts on plant functioning,climate change benefits plants at the cellular level.For example,the stimulation of C3 photosynthesis by elevated CO_(2)can increase N2 fixation by 73%and grain yield by 10%–11%.The global elevated atmospheric CO_(2)concentration has already decreased the nitrogen content in C3 crop species and C3 woody vegetation by 14%and 21%,respectively,regardless of added nitrogen fertilizer.^(15)N-feeding experiments have shown that,after 19 h under elevated CO_(2),the^(15)N concentration in the stems,roots plus rhizomes,and whole plants of Scirpus olneyi(S.olneyi)decreased by 51%,63%,and 74%,respectively.Moreover,S.olneyi showed reduced NH_(4)^(+)assimilation under elevated CO_(2),which decreased the amino acid contents in the stems by 25.6%for glycine and 65.0%for serine,and that in the roots plus rhizomes by 2%for gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA)and 80%for glutamate.Wheat grain protein has also been found to decrease by 7.4%under elevated CO_(2)due to reductions in threonine,valine,iso-leucine,leucine,and phenylalanine.The mineral nutrient contents in grains of rice and maize were similarly found to decrease under high CO_(2)by 1.0%and 7.1%for phosphorus,7.8%and 2.1%for sulfur,5.2%and 5.8%for iron,3.3%and 5.2%for zinc,10.6%and 9.9%for copper,and 7.5%and 4.2%for manganese,respectively.In general,mineral concentrations in C3 plants are predicted to decrease by 8%under elevated CO_(2),while total non-structural carbohydrates(mainly starch and sugars)are expected to increase.These decreases in grain protein,amino acids,and mineral nutrients could double the incidence of global protein-calorie malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency—especially in Africa,where agricultural soils are inherently low in nutrient elements.Additionally,the increase in total non-structural carbohydrates(mainly starch and sugars)in cereal crops could elevate diabetes incidence due to heavy reliance on starchy diets.The negative effects of elevated CO_(2)on rice,maize,and wheat—the world's three major staple crops—suggest an increase in global food insecurity with rising atmospheric CO_(2)concentration.展开更多
Grain soybean(Glycine max(L.)Merr.)shows potential as a forage crop following its introduction from low to high latitudes due to in its growth phenotype.However,the application of this approach is impeded by the diver...Grain soybean(Glycine max(L.)Merr.)shows potential as a forage crop following its introduction from low to high latitudes due to in its growth phenotype.However,the application of this approach is impeded by the diverse ecological types of soybean,their adaptability to the introduction,and the uncertainty surrounding the growth phenotype post-introduction.This study introduced 24 grain soybean varieties from low-latitude regions(22-31°N)to the high-latitude northwestern Loess Plateau(39°N)between 2018 and 2019.The growth phenotypes were observed,and their forage productivity potential was assessed.All varieties displayed delayed flowering following cross-latitude introduction,with the vegetative growth phase of some varieties even exceeding their entire growth duration at their origin.Rapid dry matter accumulation rates indicated growth adaptation performance and formed the basis for soybean forage yield.Varieties from the tropical South China region exhibited significant yield advantages,with dry matter yields of 8.97-14.68 t ha^(-1)and crude protein yields of 1.44-2.51 t ha^(-1).Varieties HX3 and GX7 from this region demonstrated optimal growth adaptability and productivity in the cross-latitude environment,achieving the highest dry matter yields of 14.68 and 13.86 t ha^(-1),respectively.As a result,HX3 and GX7 are recommended for local farming systems to provide high-quality forage.The cross-latitude introduction of soybean is proposed as a viable and efficient strategy for forage improvement and application.展开更多
Drought is a natural disaster that profoundly impacts on global agricultural production,significantly reduces crop yields,and thereby poses a severe threat to worldwide food security.Addressing the challenge of effect...Drought is a natural disaster that profoundly impacts on global agricultural production,significantly reduces crop yields,and thereby poses a severe threat to worldwide food security.Addressing the challenge of effectively improving crop drought resistance(DR)to mitigate yield loss under drought conditions is a global issue.An optimal root system architecture(RSA)plays a pivotal role in enhancing the capacity of crops to efficiently uptake water and nutrients,which consequently strengthens their resilience against environmental stresses.In this review,we discuss the compositions and roles of crop RSA and summarize the most recent developments in augmenting drought tolerance in crops by manipulating RSA-related genes.Based on the current research,we propose the potential optimal RSA configuration that could be helpful in enhancing crop DR.Lastly,we discuss the existing challenges and future directions for breeding crops with enhanced DR capabilities through genetic improvements targeting RSA.展开更多
RNA interference(RNAi)has been used for agricultural insect pest control based on silencing of targeted insect genes.However,the effectiveness of RNAi and its applications in insect pest control remain challenging.Her...RNA interference(RNAi)has been used for agricultural insect pest control based on silencing of targeted insect genes.However,the effectiveness of RNAi and its applications in insect pest control remain challenging.Here we review factors that may affect the effectiveness of RNAi application,including the variability in RNAi efficacy among different insect species,a limited understanding of double-stranded RNA(dsRNA)uptake and systemic RNAi mechanisms,and the effective delivery of dsRNA in field conditions.Furthermore,we summarize recent progress in RNAi strategies for crop protection,discuss the advantages and disadvantages of RNAi-based insect control,and propose potential strategies to increase the effectiveness of RNAi in insect control.展开更多
Abiotic stresses, such as drought, salt, extreme temperatures, and heavy metal pollution, are the main environmental factors that limit crop growth and yield. Sorghum, a C4 grass plant with high photosynthetic efficie...Abiotic stresses, such as drought, salt, extreme temperatures, and heavy metal pollution, are the main environmental factors that limit crop growth and yield. Sorghum, a C4 grass plant with high photosynthetic efficiency, can grow in adverse environmental conditions due to its excellent stress resistance characteristics. Therefore, unraveling the stress-resistance mechanism of sorghum could provide a theoretical basis for developing and cultivating various stress-resistant crops. This understanding could also help to create a conducive environment for using marginal soil in agriculture and ensuring food security. In this review, we discuss the adaptation mechanisms of sorghum under drought, salinity, temperature, and soil heavy metal stresses, the specific response to stress, the screening of sorghum-resistant germplasm, and the identification and functional analysis of the relevant genes and quantitative trait loci(QTL). In addition, we discuss the application potential of different stress-tolerant sorghum germplasms reported to date and emphasize the feasibility and potential use in developing and promoting highly stress-tolerant sorghum in marginal soil.展开更多
Before the advent of cheap, synthetic fertilizers, legumes were commonly used as green manure crops for their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen (N). A three-year study at Overton, TX examined legume integration into...Before the advent of cheap, synthetic fertilizers, legumes were commonly used as green manure crops for their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen (N). A three-year study at Overton, TX examined legume integration into high-biomass sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) production systems on a Lilbert loamy fine sand recently cultivated after a fertilized bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] pasture. In this split-split plot design, ‘Dixie’ crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.) and ‘Iron and Clay’ cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) were integrated into a high-biomass sorghum production system to evaluate impacts on N concentration, C concentration, and yield of high-biomass sorghum and their impacts on soil total N and soil organic carbon (SOC). Main plots were split into crimson clover green manure (CLGM) and winter fallow (FALL) followed by three sub-plots split into warm-season crop rotations: cowpea green manure (CPGM), cowpea-sorghum intercrop (CPSR), and sorghum monocrop (SORG). Three N fertilizer treatments (0, 45, 90 kg N∙ha−1) were randomized and applied as sub-sub plots. The CLGM increased (P sorghum biomass yield (16.5 t DM∙ha−1) 28% in year three but had no effect in the first two years. The CPSR treatment reduced sorghum yield up to 62% compared to SORG;whereas CPGM increased sorghum yield 56% and 18% the two years following cowpea incorporation. Rate of N fertilizer had no effect on sorghum biomass yield. Decrease in SOC and soil N over time indicated mineralization of organic N and may explain why no N fertilizer response was observed in sorghum biomass yield. Cowpea showed strong potential as a green manure crop but proved to be too competitive for successful intercropping in high-biomass sorghum production systems.展开更多
Annual forage legumes are important components of livestock production systems in East Texas and the southeastern US. Forage legumes contribute nitrogen (N) to cropping systems through biological N fixation, and their...Annual forage legumes are important components of livestock production systems in East Texas and the southeastern US. Forage legumes contribute nitrogen (N) to cropping systems through biological N fixation, and their seasonal biomass production can be managed to complement forage grasses. Our research objectives were to evaluate both warm- and cool-season annual forage legumes as green manure for biomass, N content, ability to enhance soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil N, and impact on post season forage grass crops. Nine warm-season forage legumes (WSL) were spring planted and incorporated as green manure in the fall. Forage rye (Secale cereale L.) was planted following the incorporation of WSL treatments. Eight cool-season forage legumes (CSL) were fall planted in previously fallow plots and incorporated as green manure in late spring. Sorghum-sudangrass (Sorghum bicolor x Sorghum bicolor var. sudanense) was planted over all treatments in early summer after forage rye harvest and incorporation of CSL treatments. Sorghum-sudangrass was harvested in June, August and September, and treatments were evaluated for dry matter and N concentration. Soil cores were taken from each plot, split into depths of 0 to 15, 15 to 30 and 30 to 60 cm, and soil C and N were measured using combustion analysis. Nylon mesh bags containing plant samples were buried at 15 cm and used to evaluate decomposition rate of above ground legume biomass, including change in C and N concentrations. Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. [Wilczek]) had the highest shoot biomass yield (6.24 t DM ha<sup>-1</sup>) and contributed the most total N (167 kg∙ha<sup>-1</sup>) and total C (3043 kg∙ha<sup>-1</sup>) of the WSL tested. Decomposition rate of WSL biomass was rapid in the first 10 weeks and very slow afterward. Winter pea (Pisum sativum L. spp. sativum), arrow leaf clover (Trifolium vesiculosum Savi.), and crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.) were the most productive CSL in this trial. Austrian winter pea produced 8.41 t DM ha<sup>-1</sup> with a total N yield of 319 kg N ha<sup>-1</sup> and total C production of 3835 kg C ha<sup>-1</sup>. The WSL treatments had only small effects on rye forage yield and N concentration, possibly due to mineralization of N from a large SOC pool already in place. The CSL treatments also had only minimal effects on sorghum-sudangrass forage production. Winter pea, arrow leaf and crimson clover were productive cool season legumes and could be useful as green manure crops. Mungbean and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.) were highly productive warm season legumes but may include more production risk in green manure systems due to soil moisture competition.展开更多
Global warming impacts plant growth and development,which in turn threatens food security.Plants can clearly respond to warm-temperature(such as by thermomorphogenesis)and high-temperature stresses.At the molecular le...Global warming impacts plant growth and development,which in turn threatens food security.Plants can clearly respond to warm-temperature(such as by thermomorphogenesis)and high-temperature stresses.At the molecular level,many small molecules play crucial roles in balancing growth and defense,and stable high yields can be achieved by fine-tuning the responses to external stimuli.Therefore,it is essential to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying plant growth in response to heat stress and how plants can adjust their biological processes to survive heat stress conditions.In this review,we summarize the heat-responsive genetic networks in plants and crop plants based on recent studies.We focus on how plants sense the elevated temperatures and initiate the cellular and metabolic responses that allow them to adapt to the adverse growing conditions.We also describe the trade-off between plant growth and responses to heat stress.Specifically,we address the regulatory network of plant responses to heat stress,which will facilitate the discovery of novel thermotolerance genes and provide new opportunities for agricultural applications.展开更多
Dense cropping increases crop yield but intensifies resource competition,which reduces single plant yield and limits potential yield growth.Optimizing canopy spacing could enhance resource utilization,support crop mor...Dense cropping increases crop yield but intensifies resource competition,which reduces single plant yield and limits potential yield growth.Optimizing canopy spacing could enhance resource utilization,support crop morphological development and increase yield.Here,a three-year study was performed to verify the feasibility of adjusting row spacing to further enhance yield in densely planted soybeans.Of three row-spacing configurations(40-40,20-40,and 20-60 cm)and two planting densities(normal 180,000 plants ha 1 and high 270,000 plants ha 1).The differences in canopy structure,plant morphological development,photosynthetic capacity and their impact on yield were analyzed.Row spacing configurations have a significant effect on canopy transmittance(CT).The 20-60 cm row spacing configuration increased CT and creates a favorable canopy light environment,in which plant height is reduced,while branching is promoted.This approach reduces plant competition,optimizes the developments of leaf area per plant,specific leaf area,leaf area development rate,leaf area duration and photosynthetic physiological indices(F_(v)/F_(m),ETR,P_(n)).The significant increase of 11.9%-34.2%in canopy apparent photosynthesis(CAP)is attributed to the significant optimization of plant growth and photosynthetic physiology through CT,an important contributing factor to yield increases.The yield in the 20-60 cm treatment is 4.0%higher than in equidistant planting under normal planting density,but 5.9%under high density,primarily driven by CAP and pod number.These findings suggest that suitable row spacing configurations optimize the light environment for plants,promote source-sink transformation in soybeans,and further improve yield.In practice,a 20-60 cm row spacing configuration could be employed for high-density soybean planting to achieve a more substantial yield gain.展开更多
Pythium stalk rot(PSR)is a destructive disease of maize,severely affecting yield and grain quality.The identification of quantitative trait loci(QTL)or genes for resistance to PSR forms the basis of diseaseresistant h...Pythium stalk rot(PSR)is a destructive disease of maize,severely affecting yield and grain quality.The identification of quantitative trait loci(QTL)or genes for resistance to PSR forms the basis of diseaseresistant hybrids breeding.In this study,a major QTL,Resistance to Pythium stalk rot 1(RPSR1),was identified from a set of recombinant inbred lines derived from MS71 and POP.Using a recombinant progeny testing strategy,RPSR1 was fine-mapped in a 472 kb interval.Through candidate gene expression,gene knock-down and knock-out studies,a leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase gene,PEP RECEPTOR 2(ZmPEPR2),was assigned as a PSR resistance gene.These results provide insights into the genetic architecture of resistance to PSR in maize,which should facilitate breeding maize for resistance to stalk rot.展开更多
The emergence of novel phytopathogens and the accelerated spread of plant diseases to new regions,driven by global climate change,constitute significant threats to agricultural resources.Rice,a major tropical staple c...The emergence of novel phytopathogens and the accelerated spread of plant diseases to new regions,driven by global climate change,constitute significant threats to agricultural resources.Rice,a major tropical staple crucial for global food security,possesses six transcription factor superfamilies-AP2/ERF,bHLH,bZIP,MYB,NAC,and WRKY-that function in innate immunity against pathogens.We review their biological functions and regulatory mechanisms in rice immunity.展开更多
Viruses are significant pathogens causing severe plant infections and crop losses globally.The resistance mechanisms of rice to viral diseases,particularly Southern rice black-streaked dwarf virus(SRBSDV),remain poorl...Viruses are significant pathogens causing severe plant infections and crop losses globally.The resistance mechanisms of rice to viral diseases,particularly Southern rice black-streaked dwarf virus(SRBSDV),remain poorly understood.In this study,we assessed SRBSDV susceptibility in 20 Xian/indica(XI)and 20 Geng/japonica(GJ)rice varieties.XI-1B accessions in the Xian subgroup displayed higher resistance than GJ accessions.Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed changes in processes like oxidoreductase activity,jasmonic acid(JA)metabolism,and stress response.JA sensitivity assays further linked antiviral defense to the JA pathway.These findings highlight a JA-mediated resistance mechanism in rice and offer insights for breeding SRBSDV-resistant varieties.展开更多
文摘2025 is the Year of the Snake in the Chinese lunar calendar.The Snake symbolizes wisdom and wealth,both welcome assets for crop science and scientists.In bidding farewell to the old and ushering in the new,I would like to thank all editors and reviewers who have generously contributed their time,effort,and expertise to The Crop Journal.I thank our devoted authors and readers for being a part of our journal community.Without all their hard work and passion,The Crop Journal is a mission impossible.
文摘The International Crop Science Congress(ICSC) is a regularly held event allowing crop scientists to integrate current knowledge into a global context and international applications.The 7th ICSC was held on August 14–19,2016 in Beijing,China,with the theme "Crop Science:Innovation and Sustainability".As a companion production for this great congress,the nine papers collected in this special issue feature important fields of crop science in China.This editorial first briefly introduces the 7th ICSC,followed by a brief discussion of the current status of,constraints to,and innovations in Chinese agriculture and crop science.Finally,the main scientific points of the papers published in this special issue are surveyed,covering important advances in hybrid rice breeding,minor cereals,food legumes,rapeseed,crop systems,crop management,cotton,genomics-based germplasm research,and QTL mapping.In a section describing future prospects,it is indicated that China faces a full transition from traditional to modern agriculture and crop science.
文摘As global population increases and demands for food supplies become greater,we face great challenges in providing more products and in larger quantities from less arable land.Crop science has gained increasing importance in meeting these challenges and results of scientific research must be communicated worldwide on a regular basis.In many countries,however,crop scientists have to publish the results of their investigations in national journals with heterogeneous con-
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32241042)the National Key R&D Program of China(2019YFD1000700 and 2019YFD1000703)the Biological Breeding-National Science and Technology Major Project,China(2022ZD04017).
文摘Salt stress is a global constraint on agricultural production.Therefore,the development of salt tolerant plants has become a current research hotspot.While salt tolerance has evolved more frequently in C_(4) grass lineages,few studies have explored the molecular bases underlying salt stress tolerance in the C_(4) crop foxtail millet.In this study,we used a multi-pronged approach spanning the omics analyses of transcriptomes and physiological analysis of the C_(3) crop rice and the C_(4) model crop foxtail millet to investigate their responses to salt stress.The results revealed that compared to C_(3) rice,C_(4) foxtail millet has upregulated abscisic acid(ABA)and notably reduced CK biosynthesis and signaling transduction under salt stress.Salt stress in C_(3) rice plants triggered rapid downregulation of photosynthesis related genes,which was coupled with severely reduced net photosynthetic rates.In the salt-treated C_(3) rice and C_(4) foxtail millet,some stress responsive transcription factors(TFs),such as AP2/ERF,WRKY and MYB,underwent strong and distinct transcriptional changes.Based on a weighted gene co-expression network analysis(WGCNA),the AP2/ERF transcription factor Rice Starch Regulator1 SiRSR1(Seita.3G044600)was identified as a key regulator of the salt stress response.To confirm its function,we generated OsRSR1-knockout lines using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in rice and its upstream repressor SimiR172a-overexpressing(172a-OE)transgenic plants in foxtail millet,which both showed increased salt tolerance.Overall,this study not only provides new insights into the convergent regulation of the salt stress responses of foxtail millet and rice,but it also sheds light on the divergent signaling networks between them in response to salt stress.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32101857 and U21A20218)the China Agricultural University Corresponding Support Research Joint Fund(GSAU-DKZY-2024-001)+1 种基金the Science and Technology Program in Gansu Province,China(24ZDNA008and23JRRA1407)the Fuxi Young Talents Fund of Gansu Agricultural University,China(Gaufx-03Y10).
文摘Intercropping has been widely used in arid and semi-arid regions because of its high yield,stable productivity,and efficient utilization of resources.However,in recent years,the high yield of traditional intercropping is mainly attributed to the large amount of purchased resources such as water and fertilizer,plastic film,and mechanical power.These lead to a decline in cultivated land quality and exacerbate intercrops'premature root and canopy senescence.So,the application of traditional intercropping faces major challenges in crop production.This paper analyzes the manifestations,occurrence mechanisms,and agronomic regulatory pathways of crop senescence.The physiological and ecological characteristics of intercropping to delay root and canopy senescence of crops are reviewed in this paper.The main agronomic regulatory pathways of intercropping to delay root and canopy senescence of crops are based on above-and blow-ground interactions,including collocation of crop varieties,spatial arrangement,water and fertilizer management,and tillage and mulch practices.Future research fields of intercropping to delay root and canopy senescence should focus on the aspects of selecting and breeding special varieties,application of molecular biology techniques,and developing or applying models to predict and evaluate the root and canopy senescence process of intercrops.Comprehensive analysis and evaluation of different research results could provide a basis for enhancing intercropping delay root and canopy senescence through adopting innovative technologies for regulating the physio-ecological characteristics of intercrops.This would support developing and adopting high-yield,efficient,and sustainable intercropping systems in arid and semi-arid areas with high population density,limited land,and abundant light and heat resources.
基金supported by the‘Double First-Class’Key Scientific Research Project of Education Department in Gansu Province,China(GSSYLXM-02)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U21A20218 and 32160765)+3 种基金the earmarked fund for China Agriculture Research System(CARS-22-G-12)the Science and Technology Project of Gansu Province,China(20JR5RA037 and 21JR7RA836)the Postdoctoral Research Start-up Foundation of Gansu Province,China(03824034)the Postdoctoral Research Start-up Foundation of Gansu Agricultural University,China(202403)。
文摘A critical challenge for global food security and sustainable agriculture is enhancing crop yields while reducing chemical N inputs.Improving N use efficiency in crops is essential for increasing agricultural productivity.The aim of this study was to evaluate the impacts of intercropping maize with leguminous green manure on grain yield and N utilization under reduced N-fertilization conditions.A field experiment with a split-plot design was conducted in northwestern China from 2018 to 2021.The main plots consisted of two cropping systems:maize-common vetch intercropping(IM)and sole maize(SM).The subplots had three N levels:zero N application(N0,0 kg ha^(-1)),a 25%reduction from the traditional chemical N supply(N1,270 kg ha^(-1)),and the traditional chemical N supply(N2,360 kg ha^(-1)).The results showed that the negative effects of N reduction on maize grain yield and N uptake were compensated by intercropping leguminous green manure,and the improvements increased with cultivation years.The integrated system involving maize-leguminous green manure intercropping and a reduced N supply enhanced N translocation from maize vegetative organs to grains and increased the nitrate reductase and glutamine synthetase activities in maize leaves.The supercompensatory effect in maize leaves increased year by year,reaching values of 16.1,21.3,and 25.5%in 2019,2020,and 2021,respectively.These findings suggest that intercropping maize with leguminous green manure under reduced chemical N input can enhance N assimilation and uptake in maize.By using this strategy,chemical fertilizer is effectively replaced by leguminous green manure,thereby improving N use efficiency and maintaining stable yields in the maize-based intercropping system.
文摘Modern crops were derived from wild ancestors between 8000 and 12,000 years ago in a process called domestication,when humans selected plant types that gave better yield.For cereal plants,they carry so-called “domestication syndromes”,such as non-shattering spikes,free threshing grains,shorter seed dormancy,and larger grain size[1].But these early crop breeders selected only a small number of domesticated plants to satisfy their limited need,leading to a phenomenon called “domestication bottleneck”resulting in restricted genetic diversity among crop cultivars.Untapped crop wild relatives(CWRs)remain a source of traits to be bred into new cultivars with resilience to challenges facing modern agriculture.
基金supported by the Nanfan special project,CAAS(YBXM2408)the Innovation Program of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(CAAS-CSIAF-202303)to Huihui Li+1 种基金a grant from Sanya Municipal Program for Science and Technology Innovation(2022KJCX87)the Nanfan special project,CAAS(YBXM2319),to Jun Zhao。
文摘Despite its negative impacts on plant functioning,climate change benefits plants at the cellular level.For example,the stimulation of C3 photosynthesis by elevated CO_(2)can increase N2 fixation by 73%and grain yield by 10%–11%.The global elevated atmospheric CO_(2)concentration has already decreased the nitrogen content in C3 crop species and C3 woody vegetation by 14%and 21%,respectively,regardless of added nitrogen fertilizer.^(15)N-feeding experiments have shown that,after 19 h under elevated CO_(2),the^(15)N concentration in the stems,roots plus rhizomes,and whole plants of Scirpus olneyi(S.olneyi)decreased by 51%,63%,and 74%,respectively.Moreover,S.olneyi showed reduced NH_(4)^(+)assimilation under elevated CO_(2),which decreased the amino acid contents in the stems by 25.6%for glycine and 65.0%for serine,and that in the roots plus rhizomes by 2%for gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA)and 80%for glutamate.Wheat grain protein has also been found to decrease by 7.4%under elevated CO_(2)due to reductions in threonine,valine,iso-leucine,leucine,and phenylalanine.The mineral nutrient contents in grains of rice and maize were similarly found to decrease under high CO_(2)by 1.0%and 7.1%for phosphorus,7.8%and 2.1%for sulfur,5.2%and 5.8%for iron,3.3%and 5.2%for zinc,10.6%and 9.9%for copper,and 7.5%and 4.2%for manganese,respectively.In general,mineral concentrations in C3 plants are predicted to decrease by 8%under elevated CO_(2),while total non-structural carbohydrates(mainly starch and sugars)are expected to increase.These decreases in grain protein,amino acids,and mineral nutrients could double the incidence of global protein-calorie malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency—especially in Africa,where agricultural soils are inherently low in nutrient elements.Additionally,the increase in total non-structural carbohydrates(mainly starch and sugars)in cereal crops could elevate diabetes incidence due to heavy reliance on starchy diets.The negative effects of elevated CO_(2)on rice,maize,and wheat—the world's three major staple crops—suggest an increase in global food insecurity with rising atmospheric CO_(2)concentration.
基金funded by the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFD1300803)the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARA(CARS-34)。
文摘Grain soybean(Glycine max(L.)Merr.)shows potential as a forage crop following its introduction from low to high latitudes due to in its growth phenotype.However,the application of this approach is impeded by the diverse ecological types of soybean,their adaptability to the introduction,and the uncertainty surrounding the growth phenotype post-introduction.This study introduced 24 grain soybean varieties from low-latitude regions(22-31°N)to the high-latitude northwestern Loess Plateau(39°N)between 2018 and 2019.The growth phenotypes were observed,and their forage productivity potential was assessed.All varieties displayed delayed flowering following cross-latitude introduction,with the vegetative growth phase of some varieties even exceeding their entire growth duration at their origin.Rapid dry matter accumulation rates indicated growth adaptation performance and formed the basis for soybean forage yield.Varieties from the tropical South China region exhibited significant yield advantages,with dry matter yields of 8.97-14.68 t ha^(-1)and crude protein yields of 1.44-2.51 t ha^(-1).Varieties HX3 and GX7 from this region demonstrated optimal growth adaptability and productivity in the cross-latitude environment,achieving the highest dry matter yields of 14.68 and 13.86 t ha^(-1),respectively.As a result,HX3 and GX7 are recommended for local farming systems to provide high-quality forage.The cross-latitude introduction of soybean is proposed as a viable and efficient strategy for forage improvement and application.
基金supported by the Key Technologies Research and Development Program,China(2022YFE0100500)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31971954,31960405,32061143031)+2 种基金Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Lab and China National Seed Group(B23YQ1510)Gansu Province Industrial Support Plan(2022CYZC-46)Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF(GZC20230909).
文摘Drought is a natural disaster that profoundly impacts on global agricultural production,significantly reduces crop yields,and thereby poses a severe threat to worldwide food security.Addressing the challenge of effectively improving crop drought resistance(DR)to mitigate yield loss under drought conditions is a global issue.An optimal root system architecture(RSA)plays a pivotal role in enhancing the capacity of crops to efficiently uptake water and nutrients,which consequently strengthens their resilience against environmental stresses.In this review,we discuss the compositions and roles of crop RSA and summarize the most recent developments in augmenting drought tolerance in crops by manipulating RSA-related genes.Based on the current research,we propose the potential optimal RSA configuration that could be helpful in enhancing crop DR.Lastly,we discuss the existing challenges and future directions for breeding crops with enhanced DR capabilities through genetic improvements targeting RSA.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32188102 to Lanqin Xia)Natural Science Foundation for Distinguished Young Scholars of Jiangxi province(20212ACB215001 to Xiudao Yu)+1 种基金supported by the China Scholarship Council(202303250062)the GSCAAS-ULg Joint PhD Program。
文摘RNA interference(RNAi)has been used for agricultural insect pest control based on silencing of targeted insect genes.However,the effectiveness of RNAi and its applications in insect pest control remain challenging.Here we review factors that may affect the effectiveness of RNAi application,including the variability in RNAi efficacy among different insect species,a limited understanding of double-stranded RNA(dsRNA)uptake and systemic RNAi mechanisms,and the effective delivery of dsRNA in field conditions.Furthermore,we summarize recent progress in RNAi strategies for crop protection,discuss the advantages and disadvantages of RNAi-based insect control,and propose potential strategies to increase the effectiveness of RNAi in insect control.
基金financial support from the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFD1201702)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32272040)the Agricultural Fine Seed Project of Shandong Province,China(2021LZGC006)。
文摘Abiotic stresses, such as drought, salt, extreme temperatures, and heavy metal pollution, are the main environmental factors that limit crop growth and yield. Sorghum, a C4 grass plant with high photosynthetic efficiency, can grow in adverse environmental conditions due to its excellent stress resistance characteristics. Therefore, unraveling the stress-resistance mechanism of sorghum could provide a theoretical basis for developing and cultivating various stress-resistant crops. This understanding could also help to create a conducive environment for using marginal soil in agriculture and ensuring food security. In this review, we discuss the adaptation mechanisms of sorghum under drought, salinity, temperature, and soil heavy metal stresses, the specific response to stress, the screening of sorghum-resistant germplasm, and the identification and functional analysis of the relevant genes and quantitative trait loci(QTL). In addition, we discuss the application potential of different stress-tolerant sorghum germplasms reported to date and emphasize the feasibility and potential use in developing and promoting highly stress-tolerant sorghum in marginal soil.
文摘Before the advent of cheap, synthetic fertilizers, legumes were commonly used as green manure crops for their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen (N). A three-year study at Overton, TX examined legume integration into high-biomass sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) production systems on a Lilbert loamy fine sand recently cultivated after a fertilized bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] pasture. In this split-split plot design, ‘Dixie’ crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.) and ‘Iron and Clay’ cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) were integrated into a high-biomass sorghum production system to evaluate impacts on N concentration, C concentration, and yield of high-biomass sorghum and their impacts on soil total N and soil organic carbon (SOC). Main plots were split into crimson clover green manure (CLGM) and winter fallow (FALL) followed by three sub-plots split into warm-season crop rotations: cowpea green manure (CPGM), cowpea-sorghum intercrop (CPSR), and sorghum monocrop (SORG). Three N fertilizer treatments (0, 45, 90 kg N∙ha−1) were randomized and applied as sub-sub plots. The CLGM increased (P sorghum biomass yield (16.5 t DM∙ha−1) 28% in year three but had no effect in the first two years. The CPSR treatment reduced sorghum yield up to 62% compared to SORG;whereas CPGM increased sorghum yield 56% and 18% the two years following cowpea incorporation. Rate of N fertilizer had no effect on sorghum biomass yield. Decrease in SOC and soil N over time indicated mineralization of organic N and may explain why no N fertilizer response was observed in sorghum biomass yield. Cowpea showed strong potential as a green manure crop but proved to be too competitive for successful intercropping in high-biomass sorghum production systems.
文摘Annual forage legumes are important components of livestock production systems in East Texas and the southeastern US. Forage legumes contribute nitrogen (N) to cropping systems through biological N fixation, and their seasonal biomass production can be managed to complement forage grasses. Our research objectives were to evaluate both warm- and cool-season annual forage legumes as green manure for biomass, N content, ability to enhance soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil N, and impact on post season forage grass crops. Nine warm-season forage legumes (WSL) were spring planted and incorporated as green manure in the fall. Forage rye (Secale cereale L.) was planted following the incorporation of WSL treatments. Eight cool-season forage legumes (CSL) were fall planted in previously fallow plots and incorporated as green manure in late spring. Sorghum-sudangrass (Sorghum bicolor x Sorghum bicolor var. sudanense) was planted over all treatments in early summer after forage rye harvest and incorporation of CSL treatments. Sorghum-sudangrass was harvested in June, August and September, and treatments were evaluated for dry matter and N concentration. Soil cores were taken from each plot, split into depths of 0 to 15, 15 to 30 and 30 to 60 cm, and soil C and N were measured using combustion analysis. Nylon mesh bags containing plant samples were buried at 15 cm and used to evaluate decomposition rate of above ground legume biomass, including change in C and N concentrations. Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. [Wilczek]) had the highest shoot biomass yield (6.24 t DM ha<sup>-1</sup>) and contributed the most total N (167 kg∙ha<sup>-1</sup>) and total C (3043 kg∙ha<sup>-1</sup>) of the WSL tested. Decomposition rate of WSL biomass was rapid in the first 10 weeks and very slow afterward. Winter pea (Pisum sativum L. spp. sativum), arrow leaf clover (Trifolium vesiculosum Savi.), and crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.) were the most productive CSL in this trial. Austrian winter pea produced 8.41 t DM ha<sup>-1</sup> with a total N yield of 319 kg N ha<sup>-1</sup> and total C production of 3835 kg C ha<sup>-1</sup>. The WSL treatments had only small effects on rye forage yield and N concentration, possibly due to mineralization of N from a large SOC pool already in place. The CSL treatments also had only minimal effects on sorghum-sudangrass forage production. Winter pea, arrow leaf and crimson clover were productive cool season legumes and could be useful as green manure crops. Mungbean and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.) were highly productive warm season legumes but may include more production risk in green manure systems due to soil moisture competition.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32171945,32301760)the Program for Innovative Research Team(in Science and Technology)in University of Henan Province,China(22IRTSTHN023)+2 种基金the Scientific and Technological Research Project of Henan Province,China(242102111116)the National Science Foundation for Postdoctoral Scientists of China(2023M731003)the Postdoctoral Research Subsidize Fund of Henan Province,China(HN2022139)。
文摘Global warming impacts plant growth and development,which in turn threatens food security.Plants can clearly respond to warm-temperature(such as by thermomorphogenesis)and high-temperature stresses.At the molecular level,many small molecules play crucial roles in balancing growth and defense,and stable high yields can be achieved by fine-tuning the responses to external stimuli.Therefore,it is essential to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying plant growth in response to heat stress and how plants can adjust their biological processes to survive heat stress conditions.In this review,we summarize the heat-responsive genetic networks in plants and crop plants based on recent studies.We focus on how plants sense the elevated temperatures and initiate the cellular and metabolic responses that allow them to adapt to the adverse growing conditions.We also describe the trade-off between plant growth and responses to heat stress.Specifically,we address the regulatory network of plant responses to heat stress,which will facilitate the discovery of novel thermotolerance genes and provide new opportunities for agricultural applications.
基金supported by the Biological Breeding-National Science and Technology Major Project(2023ZD0403305)National Natural Science Foundation of China(32101845)+1 种基金the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFE0105000)the China Agriculture Research System(CARS-04).
文摘Dense cropping increases crop yield but intensifies resource competition,which reduces single plant yield and limits potential yield growth.Optimizing canopy spacing could enhance resource utilization,support crop morphological development and increase yield.Here,a three-year study was performed to verify the feasibility of adjusting row spacing to further enhance yield in densely planted soybeans.Of three row-spacing configurations(40-40,20-40,and 20-60 cm)and two planting densities(normal 180,000 plants ha 1 and high 270,000 plants ha 1).The differences in canopy structure,plant morphological development,photosynthetic capacity and their impact on yield were analyzed.Row spacing configurations have a significant effect on canopy transmittance(CT).The 20-60 cm row spacing configuration increased CT and creates a favorable canopy light environment,in which plant height is reduced,while branching is promoted.This approach reduces plant competition,optimizes the developments of leaf area per plant,specific leaf area,leaf area development rate,leaf area duration and photosynthetic physiological indices(F_(v)/F_(m),ETR,P_(n)).The significant increase of 11.9%-34.2%in canopy apparent photosynthesis(CAP)is attributed to the significant optimization of plant growth and photosynthetic physiology through CT,an important contributing factor to yield increases.The yield in the 20-60 cm treatment is 4.0%higher than in equidistant planting under normal planting density,but 5.9%under high density,primarily driven by CAP and pod number.These findings suggest that suitable row spacing configurations optimize the light environment for plants,promote source-sink transformation in soybeans,and further improve yield.In practice,a 20-60 cm row spacing configuration could be employed for high-density soybean planting to achieve a more substantial yield gain.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(32302371 to Junbin Chen)the National Key Research and Development Program,Ministry of Science and Technology of China(2022YFD1201802 to Wangsheng Zhu)Research Program from State Key Laboratory of Maize Biobreeding(SKLMB2424 to Wangsheng Zhu).
文摘Pythium stalk rot(PSR)is a destructive disease of maize,severely affecting yield and grain quality.The identification of quantitative trait loci(QTL)or genes for resistance to PSR forms the basis of diseaseresistant hybrids breeding.In this study,a major QTL,Resistance to Pythium stalk rot 1(RPSR1),was identified from a set of recombinant inbred lines derived from MS71 and POP.Using a recombinant progeny testing strategy,RPSR1 was fine-mapped in a 472 kb interval.Through candidate gene expression,gene knock-down and knock-out studies,a leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase gene,PEP RECEPTOR 2(ZmPEPR2),was assigned as a PSR resistance gene.These results provide insights into the genetic architecture of resistance to PSR in maize,which should facilitate breeding maize for resistance to stalk rot.
基金supported by Research Program for Agricultural Science and Technology Development,Republic of Korea(PJ01570601)the Fellowship Program(PJ01661001)of the National Institute of Agricultural Sciences,Republic of KoreaRural Development Administration,Republic of Korea.
文摘The emergence of novel phytopathogens and the accelerated spread of plant diseases to new regions,driven by global climate change,constitute significant threats to agricultural resources.Rice,a major tropical staple crucial for global food security,possesses six transcription factor superfamilies-AP2/ERF,bHLH,bZIP,MYB,NAC,and WRKY-that function in innate immunity against pathogens.We review their biological functions and regulatory mechanisms in rice immunity.
基金funded by the National Key Research and Development Plan of China(2023YFD1400300)National Natural Science Foundation of China(U23A6006,32270149,32272555)+1 种基金Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation(LZ22C140001)the Ningbo Major Research and Development Plan Project(2023Z124).
文摘Viruses are significant pathogens causing severe plant infections and crop losses globally.The resistance mechanisms of rice to viral diseases,particularly Southern rice black-streaked dwarf virus(SRBSDV),remain poorly understood.In this study,we assessed SRBSDV susceptibility in 20 Xian/indica(XI)and 20 Geng/japonica(GJ)rice varieties.XI-1B accessions in the Xian subgroup displayed higher resistance than GJ accessions.Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed changes in processes like oxidoreductase activity,jasmonic acid(JA)metabolism,and stress response.JA sensitivity assays further linked antiviral defense to the JA pathway.These findings highlight a JA-mediated resistance mechanism in rice and offer insights for breeding SRBSDV-resistant varieties.
