Introduction: Although Ecballium elaterium (L.) A. Rich., is considered as a minor crop in the Cucurbitaceae family. However, its medicinal virtues (3, 8) and its resistance to pests and diseases (6, 7), have made the plant a suitable candidate to improve crop quality in Cucurbitaceae species. Cultivation studies were aimed at assessing the growth of the plant and the variation of cucurbitacins...

A decline in pollination function has been linked to agriculture expansion and intensification. In northwest Argentina, pollinator visits to grapefruit, a self-compatible but pollinator-dependent crop, decline by approximately 50% at 1km from forest edges. We evaluated whether this decrease in visitation also reduces the pollination service in this crop. We analysed the quantity and quality of ...

Genetic engineering refers to the specific molecular biological modification of DNA sequences. With rapid development genetic methods, especially breakthroughs in guiding endonuclease technology, gene remodeling crops has become simpler, more precise, and efficient. techniques can be used develop with superior traits such as high trace elements plant nutrients, providing an important tool meet ...

Developing the concept of soil quality may help identify the soil and crop management practices required for environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable agriculture. Objectives of this paper are (1) to review current efforts to define soil quality, (2) to discuss factors and processes which influence soil quality, (3) to identify, soil and crop management practices that affect proce...