Journal of Crops Improvement

Grouping of irrigated wheat cultivars based on agronomic characteristics using multivariate statistical methods

Roxana Seyyed Raoufi; Saeid Soufizadeh; Jafar Kambouzia; Eskandar Zand; Tohid Najafi Mirak

Volume 27, Issue 3 , September 2025, Pages 377-396

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2025.375991.2881

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate grain yield, its components, and key morphological and physiological traits in traditional and newly developed irrigated wheat cultivars. The goal was to identify critical agronomic factors influencing wheat yield potential under optimal field conditions. Methods: ... Read More Objective: This study aimed to evaluate grain yield, its components, and key morphological and physiological traits in traditional and newly developed irrigated wheat cultivars. The goal was to identify critical agronomic factors influencing wheat yield potential under optimal field conditions. Methods: A field experiment was conducted during the 2021–2022 growing season at the Seed and Plant Improvement Institute in Alborz Province, Iran. Using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 29 cultivars and three replications, comprehensive assessments of morphological, physiological, and yield-related traits were carried out at flowering and physiological maturity stages. Measurements included grain yield, biological yield, harvest index, grains per spike, thousand-grain weight, leaf area index, among others. The trial was managed under optimal conditions, free from biotic and abiotic stresses, with standard agronomic practices. Results: Significant genetic variation (p < 0.01) was observed across all traits, indicating a strong genetic influence on performance. The highest grain yield was recorded for Shiroudi (1074 g/m²), while Baharan had the lowest (572 g/m²). Cultivars such as Shiroudi, Gonbad, Navid, Pishtaz, and Chamran 2 exhibited superior biological yields. The harvest index ranged from 37% in Baharan to over 50% in Shush, Tajan, and Aflak. Stepwise regression identified harvest index, grains per spike, thousand-grain weight, and leaf area index as primary contributors to yield, explaining 56% of the variation. Cluster analysis grouped genotypes into four clusters, with Groups I and III comprising the highest-yielding cultivars suited to Alborz’s conditions. PCA revealed that the first five components accounted for 80% of total variance. Pearson correlations confirmed strong positive relationships between grain yield and traits such as spike number, seeds per spike, biological yield, and leaf area index. Conclusion: Traits including harvest index, grains per spike, thousand-grain weight, and leaf area index are key determinants of grain yield and should be prioritized as selection criteria in wheat breeding programs.weight, and leaf area index play a decisive role in grain yield and can be considered as selection indicators in breeding programs.

Dynamics of photoassimilates in the stem internodes of rainfed barley cultivars grown under regions with different climate

Mehdi Joudi; Asghar Mehraban

Volume 27, Issue 3 , September 2025, Pages 397-415

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2025.389854.2916

Abstract

Objective: This research aimed to investigate the potential of photoassimilate accumulation and remobilization in the stem internodes of rainfed barley cultivars grown in regions with contrasting climates. Method: Eight barley cultivars (four two-rowed and four six-rowed) were cultivated under rainfed ... Read More Objective: This research aimed to investigate the potential of photoassimilate accumulation and remobilization in the stem internodes of rainfed barley cultivars grown in regions with contrasting climates. Method: Eight barley cultivars (four two-rowed and four six-rowed) were cultivated under rainfed conditions in Meshginshahr (Mediterranean region with cold winters) and Jafarabad-Moghan (semi-tropical region with semi-cold winters) during the 2023–2024 growing season. Photoassimilate accumulation and remobilization were assessed in the stem internodes (peduncle, penultimate, and lower internodes) by measuring changes in dry weight. Results: The two experimental sites exhibited distinct climatic conditions. Meshginshahr experienced higher precipitation and lower average temperatures, resulting in a longer growing season compared to Moghan. Internode length varied: the upper internodes (peduncle and penultimate) were longer in Meshginshahr, while the lower internodes contributed a higher proportion to total stem length in Moghan. The maximum dry weights of the peduncle, penultimate, and lower internodes in Meshginshahr were observed at 18, 18, and 15 days after anthesis, respectively; in Moghan, these maxima occurred at 4, 4, and 4 days after anthesis. Internodes in Meshginshahr accumulated greater amounts of photoassimilates, exhibited higher remobilization of reserves, and supported higher grain yields per stem than those in Moghan. Significant variability was observed among cultivars across morphologic, physiological, and agronomic traits. Generally, cultivar× location interactions were non-significant for maximum internode weight and specific weight, indicating consistent cultivar rankings across sites despite trait variations. Notably, Barzin and Jolgeh exhibited the highest internode weights and specific weights in Meshginshahr and Moghan, respectively. However, complex interactions were observed for internode and stem remobilization, with location influencing both trait values and cultivar rankings. Jolgeh and Barzin in Meshginshahr, and Barzin and Oxin in Moghan, demonstrated the highest cumulative remobilization. Conclusions: In both regions, lower internodes showed the greatest potential for accumulation and remobilization of photoassimilates. To maximize dry matter accumulation early in the season and facilitate effective remobilization toward grain filling, these internodes should ideally possess appropriate length, weight, and specific weight. These findings suggest that selecting cultivars with optimal lower internode traits could improve yield potential in rainfed barley cultivation under variable climatic conditions

Investigation of genetic parameters of Morphologic and Agronomic Traits in Bread Wheat cultivars by diallel method Under Normal and Drought Stress conditions

ali eftekhari

Volume 27, Issue 3 , September 2025, Pages 417-435

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2025.382902.2898

Abstract

Objective: Developing new and adaptable cultivars suited to different environments is a primary goal for breeders. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic characteristics, including general and specific combining abilities, using a half diallel cross among nine bread wheat cultivars. Method: Seeds ... Read More Objective: Developing new and adaptable cultivars suited to different environments is a primary goal for breeders. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic characteristics, including general and specific combining abilities, using a half diallel cross among nine bread wheat cultivars. Method: Seeds of 36 F₁ hybrids derived from nine parents were planted in a randomized complete block design with three replications under normal and drought stress conditions. The parents and hybrids were evaluated based on morphological and agronomic traits such as plant height, days to maturity, spike length, peduncle length, thousand-seed weight, flag leaf area, and grain yield. Combining abilities and gene action were estimated using Griffing’s method 2 (B model) and analysis of variance following Jinks and Hayman's approach. Results: Analysis with Griffing’s method 2 and Hayman-Jinks revealed significant effects of both general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) across all traits and conditions, indicating the presence of both additive and non-additive genetic components. Parents Roshan, Shahpasand, and Azar2 exhibited high GCA for most traits under both conditions. Hayman’s variance analysis showed significant additive (a) and dominance (b) components for all traits in both environments. The significance of the b₂ component suggested an unequal distribution of dominant and recessive alleles. The b₃ component, indicative of SCA, was significant across traits. Heritability estimates ranged from 55% to 74% (broad-sense) and 14% to 61% (narrow-sense) in both conditions. Conclusions: Traits such as plant height, spike length, peduncle length, and days to maturity under normal conditions, as well as spike length, peduncle length, thousand-seed weight, and flag leaf area under drought stress, can be effectively selected in early generations. For traits like seed weight, flag leaf area (normal conditions), plant height, days to maturity (drought stress), and grain yield in both conditions, selection should be delayed until advanced generations when traits are genetically fixed. Breeding methods such as pedigree, backcrossing, bulk, single seed descent, and doubled haploid techniques are recommended to accelerate genetic fixation.

Effect of nitrification inhibitor nitrapyrin and different levels of nitrogen fertilizer on biological yield and nitrogen harvest index in Canola

Fatemeh Benakashani; Seyyede Fahime Safdari; Azam borzouei; Farhad Saberali

Volume 27, Issue 3 , September 2025, Pages 437-449

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2025.395503.2932

Abstract

Objective: Nitrogen plays a pivotal role in modern agriculture as a key determinant of crop productivity, particularly in oilseed crops like rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). However, nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in agricultural systems remains alarmingly low, with significant nitrogen losses occurring ... Read More Objective: Nitrogen plays a pivotal role in modern agriculture as a key determinant of crop productivity, particularly in oilseed crops like rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). However, nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in agricultural systems remains alarmingly low, with significant nitrogen losses occurring through nitrification, leaching, and volatilization processes. These losses not only represent economic waste but also contribute to serious environmental concerns, including groundwater contamination and greenhouse gas emissions. This study was designed to comprehensively evaluate the effects of different nitrogen fertilizer levels combined with the nitrification inhibitor nitrapyrin on growth parameters, yield components, and nitrogen use efficiency of two commercially important rapeseed genotypes under the warm and humid agro-climatic conditions of Pakdasht, Tehran province. Method: The experiment was conducted as a split-plot arrangement within a randomized complete block design with three replications during the 2021-2022 growing season. The main factor included two rapeseed genotypes (Roshana and Zafar), while the sub-factor consisted of five urea fertilizer levels (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 kg ha⁻¹) with and without nitrapyrin (2-chloro-6-trichloromethyl pyridine). Measured traits included seed yield, biological yield, harvest index, plant height, and other morphological characteristics. Results: The study revealed several important findings: (1) Nitrogen application up to 150 kg ha⁻¹ significantly improved all growth and yield parameters, with diminishing returns observed at higher application rates; (2) Nitrapyrin application consistently enhanced nitrogen use efficiency by 18-22% across all nitrogen levels; (3) The combination of 150 kg N ha⁻¹ with nitrapyrin produced optimal results, increasing seed yield by 23.5% (3542 kg ha⁻¹) compared to the same nitrogen level without inhibitor; (4) Biological yield showed an 11.2% improvement with nitrapyrin use; (5) The inhibitor extended nitrogen availability in the ammonium form by 3-4 weeks, better matching crop demand; (6) Environmental nitrogen losses were reduced by 28-35% with nitrapyrin application. (7) Grain nitrogen percentage and harvest index were significantly influenced by varying nitrogen fertilizer levels. Increasing nitrogen application rates led to a rise in both harvest index and grain nitrogen concentration. However, shoot nitrogen content remained unaffected by the different nitrogen treatments. Conclusions: This research demonstrates that the judicious combination of moderate nitrogen fertilization (150 kg ha⁻¹) with nitrapyrin represents an optimal management strategy for rapeseed production in warm, humid environments. The treatment balanced crop nutritional requirements with environmental protection, improving nitrogen use efficiency while reducing potential pollution. These findings have significant implications for sustainable nitrogen management protocols in oilseed production systems, particularly in regions facing similar climatic challenges and environmental concerns. Future research should investigate long-term soil health impacts and economic feasibility of this approach across different agro-ecosystems.

Investigating the effect of melatonin on Moldavian balm (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) under different irrigation levels

Mina Amani; Mohsen Sabzi-Nojadeh

Volume 27, Issue 3 , September 2025, Pages 467-484

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2025.386525.2908

Abstract

Objective: With the global rise in population and increasing demand for medicinal plants, active compounds from these species are of growing pharmaceutical importance. Cultivation of Moldavian balm (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) is expanding, and the crop is prone to abiotic stresses, especially water ... Read More Objective: With the global rise in population and increasing demand for medicinal plants, active compounds from these species are of growing pharmaceutical importance. Cultivation of Moldavian balm (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) is expanding, and the crop is prone to abiotic stresses, especially water deficit, during the growing season. Drought stress can impair physiological and metabolic functions. Melatonin has emerged as a key regulator of plant responses to stress, modulating diverse physiological processes and enhancing resilience. Given limited water resources and the medicinal value of Moldavian balm, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of melatonin on the physiological properties of Moldavian balm under greenhouse conditions. Methods: We examined the effects of three melatonin treatments—control, 50 μM, and 100 μM—on the physiological characteristics of Moldavian balm subjected to drought stress at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of field capacity. The experiment followed a factorial arrangement in a completely randomized block design with three replications, conducted in the greenhouse and laboratory of the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tabriz, Ahar campus. Statistical analyses were performed to assess treatment effects and interactions. Results: Application of 100 μM melatonin significantly increased photosynthetic pigment content, supporting improved photosynthetic capacity under drought. Melatonin treatment, particularly at 100 μM, also elevated secondary metabolites, including phenolics and flavonoids, which enhance plant defense under stress. Notably, phenol and flavonoid contents reached 51.95 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) g⁻¹ fresh weight and 11.42 mg quercetin equivalents (QEs) g⁻¹ fresh weight, respectively, in melatonin-treated plants. Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase activity, a key enzyme in phenolic biosynthesis, was significantly enhanced. Under severe drought (25% field capacity), cinnamic acid production reached 17.84 μM min⁻¹ mg⁻¹ protein, indicating melatonin’s role in reinforcing defense pathways. While 100 μM melatonin improved physiological responses, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (lipid peroxidation marker) were also elevated (≈1.13 μM g⁻¹ dry weight), suggesting that some oxidative stress persisted and highlighting the need for integrated stress-management strategies. Conclusion: Melatonin, especially at 100 μM, mitigates drought-induced damage in Moldavian balm by enhancing photosynthetic performance, boosting secondary metabolite production, and elevating antioxidant defense enzyme activity. These effects contribute to improved plant resilience, quality, and potential yield under water-limited conditions. Melatonin can be a valuable tool for stabilizing Moldavian balm production in greenhouse systems facing abiotic stress.

Investigating the effects of biofertilizers on photosynthetic and biochemical characteristics, flower yield and essential oil yield of German chamomile

Ahmad Karimi; Masoumeh Naeemi; Ali Nakhzari Moghadam; Ebrahim Gholamalipour Alamdari

Volume 27, Issue 3 , September 2025, Pages 505-520

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2025.390897.2922

Abstract

Objective: The use of organic and biological fertilizers is a fundamental aspect of organic production in the medicinal plant industry. Seaweed extracts and amino acids are eco-friendly inputs that can enhance growth, and quantitative and qualitative performance of medicinal plants. This study evaluated ... Read More Objective: The use of organic and biological fertilizers is a fundamental aspect of organic production in the medicinal plant industry. Seaweed extracts and amino acids are eco-friendly inputs that can enhance growth, and quantitative and qualitative performance of medicinal plants. This study evaluated the effects of seaweed extract and amino acids on photosynthetic indices, biochemical parameters, flower yield, and essential oil yield in German chamomile. Research Method: Factorial experiment arranged as a completely randomized block design was conducted with three replications during the 2022–2023 growing season at the Gonbad Kavous University research farm. Algafarm (seaweed extract) applied at three levels—control (no application), foliar application (1 kg ha⁻¹), and soil irrigation (2 kg in 1000 L water). Amino acids were applied with three levels—control (no application), foliar AminoSpark (1 kg ha⁻¹), and foliar Azomin (1 L ha⁻¹). Photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant enzymes, proline content, flower yield, and essential oil yield were measured. Findings: The combination of seaweed extract and amino acids significantly affected photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant enzymes, proline content, and both flower and essential oil yields. Highest total chlorophyll and carotenoids occurred with seaweed extract application, particularly when Azomin was foliar-applied alongside soil-applied seaweed extract. Amino acids boosted antioxidant activity, with the most pronounced increase in peroxidase activity among the enzymes evaluated. Azomin combined with seaweed extract increased floral yield, with a peak yield of 1,747 kg ha⁻¹ observed under foliar Azomin in the presence of foliar seaweed extract, about a 20% rise over the control. The highest essential oil yield was 983 g ha⁻¹, also attributed to Azomin plus seaweed extract treatment. Conclusion: The integrated use of seaweed extracts and amino acids improves physiological traits and both quantitative and qualitative characteristics in German chamomile, supporting their potential as sustainable, eco-friendly options to enhance productivity in organic cultivation systems. Further work could optimize application timing and rates for maximum economic benefit.

Investigating the yield, yield components and useful indicators of Dragon’s head (Lallemantia iberica) in intercropping with castor (Ricinus communis) at different levels of nitrogen fertilizer

Mohammad Reza Khaleghizadeh Dehkordi; Amir Aynehband; Esfandiar Fateh

Volume 27, Issue 3 , September 2025, Pages 521-545

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2025.388661.2915

Abstract

Objective: Intercropping is a globally recognized strategy to improve resource-use efficiency and support food security, diversification of cropping systems, sustainable agricultural development, and labor efficiency on smallholder farms. A key aspect of intercropping is providing adequate nitrogen, ... Read More Objective: Intercropping is a globally recognized strategy to improve resource-use efficiency and support food security, diversification of cropping systems, sustainable agricultural development, and labor efficiency on smallholder farms. A key aspect of intercropping is providing adequate nitrogen, which is essential for optimal plant growth. This study investigates the yield, yield components, and useful indicators of Dragon’s head when intercropped with castor at varying nitrogen levels. Materials and Methods: Experimental design was split-plot randomized complete block design with three replications, conducted at the Research Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Chamran University, during the 2022–2023 growing year. The main plots were Nitrogen fertilizer amounts at three levels (0, 50, and 100 kg N ha⁻¹). The sub-plots were plant-density treatments with five levels (pure castor; castor + Dragon’s head at 20, 40, and 60 plants m⁻²; and pure Dragon’s head). The experiment used additive intercropping, with castor as the main crop at a constant density of 8 plants m⁻². The response variables were seed yield, biomass yield, yield components, land equivalent ratio (LER), and management indices such as MAI. Results: Seed yield and biomass yield of Dragon’s head increased by 89.3% and 86.4%, respectively, under 100 kg N ha⁻¹ compared with the control; the highest seed yield and biomass yield were 892 kg ha⁻¹ and 2,128 kg ha⁻¹, respectively, in the 100 kg N ha⁻¹ treatment. Plant density effect: Among densities, the highest average seed yield and biomass yield of Dragon’s head occurred in pure cultivation, at 1,000 kg ha⁻¹ and 2,224 kg ha⁻¹, respectively. Relative to densities of 20, 40, and 60 plants m⁻², this represented increases of 121.8%, 71.1%, and 36.2% in seed yield and 113.7%, 70.2%, and 21.4% in biomass yield, respectively. Under 50 and 100 kg N ha⁻¹, intercropping yielded 2,316 and 3,026 kg ha⁻¹, respectively, representing increases of 57% and 105% over the zero-N control. LER increased with higher Dragon’s head density; the 40 and 60 plants m⁻² intercropping with castor showed 14% and 26% higher LER than the 20 plants m⁻² treatment (LER= 1.34 and 1.47, respectively). The highest LER (1.47) occurred in the 60 plants m⁻²+ castor treatment with 100 kg N ha⁻¹, indicating a 47% gain over pure cultivation. The maximum MAI observed was 942 in the 60 plants m⁻² density with 100 kg N ha⁻¹. Conclusion: Intercropping Dragon’s head with castor, particularly at higher nitrogen levels and intermediate densities, significantly enhances total yield and land-use efficiency (LER). These results suggest that intercropping two relatively low-competition species can improve resource utilization and input efficiency in tropical and subtropical regions. Further studies are recommended to optimize density combinations, nitrogen management, and economic analyses for broader adoption.

Evaluation of cold stress tolerance in regenerated seedlings of some lentil genotypes

Hajar Ashoordan; Massoud Dehdari; Asad Masoumiasl; Rahmatollah Karimizadeh

Volume 27, Issue 3 , September 2025, Pages 547-561

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2025.387181.2909

Abstract

Objective: Cold stress causes significant irreversible damage to crops like lentils (Lens culinaris Medic), an important legume. Limited information exists on utilizing somaclonal variation to enhance cold tolerance in lentils. This study aimed to evaluate cold tolerance in lentil seedlings regenerated ... Read More Objective: Cold stress causes significant irreversible damage to crops like lentils (Lens culinaris Medic), an important legume. Limited information exists on utilizing somaclonal variation to enhance cold tolerance in lentils. This study aimed to evaluate cold tolerance in lentil seedlings regenerated from in vitro culture. Method: Seven lentil genotypes were exposed to two temperature regimes: 5°C (cold stress) and 25°C (control). The experiment, conducted at Yasouj Agricultural Faculty in 2021, followed a completely randomized design with three replications. Ten days after treatment, morphological and physiological traits—including root length, root fresh and dry weight, shoot height, shoot fresh and dry weight, carotenoid and chlorophyll contents, electrolyte leakage, and total soluble sugar—were measured. Results: Variance analysis revealed significant effects of temperature on all traits, genotype effects on all traits except root length, and genotype-by-temperature interactions on most traits. Under cold stress (5°C), genotype 09S 83259-14ILL6994/ILL5480 showed superior performance in most traits. Multivariate analysis categorized ILL 7979 and 09S 83259-14ILL6994/ILL5480 as the most cold-tolerant genotypes, while Gachsaran, Kimia, ACC 5588 ILL116, and ACC 4605 were identified as sensitive. Electrolyte leakage exhibited the highest stress sensitivity (stress index of 0.53), indicating susceptibility to cold. Variability coefficients indicated considerable diversity, especially for shoot-related traits. Heritability was highest for total soluble sugar (97.81%) and electrolyte leakage (97.70%), with the lowest for root length (88.02%). Conclusions: The study revealed significant genetic diversity in cold tolerance among tissue-cultured lentil seedlings. The high genetic variance suggests that selection for cold tolerance based on these traits will be effective. Traits like electrolyte leakage and shoot biomass could serve as reliable selection criteria in breeding programs aimed at improving cold tolerance in lentils.

Investigating the effect of vermicompost on the morpho-physiological characteristics of the dragon’s head (Lallemantia iberica L.) plant under arsenic stress

Parastoo Shokati; Yousef Sohrabi; Teimour Javadi; Behrooz Sarabi

Volume 27, Issue 3 , September 2025, Pages 563-590

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2025.390133.2920

Abstract

Objective: The excessive use of chemical fertilizers and agricultural pesticides has led to the accumulation of heavy metals in the soil, raising significant environmental concerns. Consequently, the adoption of biocompatible fertilizers to mitigate these risks is essential, particularly in low-yielding ... Read More Objective: The excessive use of chemical fertilizers and agricultural pesticides has led to the accumulation of heavy metals in the soil, raising significant environmental concerns. Consequently, the adoption of biocompatible fertilizers to mitigate these risks is essential, particularly in low-yielding soils contaminated with heavy metals. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate vermicompost's effect on alleviating arsenic's negative impacts on the morpho-physiological characteristics, yield and elemental content of the dragon’s head. Therefore, the present experiment was designed and conducted to investigate the effects of vermicompost application in mitigating the adverse effects of arsenic on the growth and physiological traits of the medicinal plant Lallemantia iberica (dragon’s head). Methods: This pot experiment was conducted during the 2023–2024 growing season in the research greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kurdistan. The study was arranged as a factorial based on a completely randomized design with three replications. The treatments included two levels of arsenic (0 and 25 mg/kg soil) and four levels of vermicompost (0, 5, 10, and 15% of soil weight). Sodium arsenate salt (NaH2AsO4) was employed to contaminate the growing medium. Morpho-physiological and biochemical traits, including stem and root length, shoot dry weight, chlorophyll and carotenoid content, membrane stability index, proline and soluble protein content, peroxidase enzyme activity, as well as macro- and micronutrient concentrations, were evaluated at the flowering stage. Results: The results of the variance analysis of traits indicated the significant effect of different concentrations of vermicompost and arsenic application on most of the examined traits. The findings indicated that increasing arsenic levels in the soil, negatively affected growth characteristics (stem length 35%, root length 103% and plant dry weight 39%), photosynthetic pigment content (chlorophyll a 33%, chlorophyll b 40% and carotenoids 51%), and membrane stability index (23%), while proline content (33%), peroxidase enzyme activity (37%), and the concentrations of copper (36%), nitrogen (25%), and zinc (3%) increased. Application of vermicompost, particularly at a concentration of 15% by soil weight, significantly improved growth parameters (Stem length 47%, root length 86% and plant dry weight 12%). It also enhanced photosynthetic pigment levels (total chlorophyll 87%, chlorophyll b 65% and carotenoid content 67%), increased soluble protein content by 40%, and promoted nutrient uptake by the plants under both arsenic stress and control conditions. Conclusion: Vermicompost (up to 15% of soil weight) reduces the negative arsenic application (concentration of 25 mg/kg soil) by improving the physicochemical conditions of the soil, improving its preservation and providing nutrients to the plant. The results also showed that, while in arsenic-contaminated soil, the plant has high arsenic absorption, but the application of vermicompost in the soil improves the growth and development of dragon’s head plant by increasing the absorption of other mineral elements compared to arsenic and reducing its toxicity in the plant.

Effect of cadmium on concentration of copper, iron, manganese and zinc in shoot of different cultivars of wheat

Volume 17, Issue 1 , April 2015, , Pages 27-41

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2015.54786

Abstract

The aim of this research was to evaluate the average concentrations of micronutrients including: Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn) and Zinc (Zn) in the shoots of different cultivars of wheat in stem elongation stage in a soil contaminated with cadmium (Cd). The treatments consisted of three levels ... Read More

A study on physiological attributes and grain yield of sesame cultivars under different soil moisture regimes

Volume 13, Issue 2 , March 2012, , Pages 75-88

Abstract

Sesame could be an appropriate oilseed crop for water limited environments. This research was aimed at studying growth, leaf chlorophyll fluorescence, proline content, yield and yield components of sesame cultivars under different moisture regimes. A 4-replicate split plot RCBD field experiment was conducted ... Read More

Evaluation of Seed Yield and Oil Content of 40 Camelina (Camelina sativa L.) Doubled Haploid Lines

Volume 24, Issue 2 , June 2022, , Pages 497-509

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2021.331945.2622

Abstract

In order to evaluate the yield components, seed yield, and oil content of Camelina doubled haploid lines, an experiment has been conducted based on a randomized complete block design with 40 doubled haploid lines (as treatments) and three replications in the research farm of College of Aburaihan- the ... Read More

Effect of some chemical treatments on postharvest quality and vase life of gerbera cut flowers (Gerbera jamesonii cv. Good Timing)

Volume 13, Issue 1 , August 2011, , Pages 21-29

Abstract

The effect of gibberelic acid (GA3) and ethanol on the postharvest quality and vase life of gerbera cut flowers was investigated. Freshly cut flower stems of gerbera cultivar ‘Good timing’, were put in vases containing zero, 50, 100, 150, 200 or 300 mgL-1 GA3 for 48 hr and then held in vases ... Read More

Phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of some Iranian and commercial apple varieties in West Azarbaijan province

Volume 14, Issue 2 , February 2013, , Pages 43-55

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2013.29500

Abstract

In this study, the amount of total phenol, chlorogenic acid, catechin, quercetin, phloridzin, cyanidin and antioxidant activity of apple (Malus domestica) skin and flesh of six Iranian cultivars, including: ‘Golab Kohanz’, ‘Sib Torsh Dirras’, ‘Ghara Yapragh’, ‘Torkman’, ... Read More

The effect of Cobalt, Molybdenum, and Nitrogen on morphophysiological characteristics of Phaseolus vulgaris in soilless culture

Nader Khadem Moghadam Igdelou; Ahmad Golchin; Khadije Farhadi

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 17 November 2022

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2022.292101.2292

Abstract

In order to study the effect of Cobalt, Molybdenum, and Nitrogen on the growth of Phaseolus vulgaris in soilless culture, a pot experiment was conducted in 2015-16 and in July, at 25˚C and light intensity of 40,000 lux as a factorial based on a CRD with 36 treatments and three replications in the greenhouse ... Read More

Evaluation of forage quality in Festuca pratensis Huds. genotypes under water deficit stress

sara sabertanha; fatemeh amini; ali Izadi Darbandi; Seyed Ahmad Sadat Noori

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 21 September 2025

https://doi.org/10.22059/jci.2025.395735.2934

Abstract

Abstract Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the forage quality of Festuca pratensis genotypes under water deficit stress. The experiment was carried out over three consecutive years (2022–2024) at the Research Farm of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, University of Tehran, with the ... Read More Abstract Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the forage quality of Festuca pratensis genotypes under water deficit stress. The experiment was carried out over three consecutive years (2022–2024) at the Research Farm of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, University of Tehran, with the goal of identifying drought-tolerant genotypes that also maintain high nutritional value. Materials and Methods: Seeds of 20 genotypes of Festuca pratensis were obtained from the NordGen gene bank in Sweden and the ART Institute in Switzerland. The experiment was established in a split-plot design in time using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The genotypes were evaluated under two irrigation regimes: normal (100 percent field capacity) and water deficit (50 percent field capacity), following the full establishment of the plants. Sampling was conducted at the mid-flowering stage after two consecutive years of stress application, in May 2023 and May 2024. Several key forage quality traits were measured, including acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), cellulose, lignin, nitrogen content, ash, dry matter intake (DMI), in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), metabolizable energy (ME), and relative feed value (RFV). Results: The analysis of variance revealed that drought stress significantly affected all studied traits at the one percent probability level. Significant effects were also observed for genotype and harvest, as well as for the two-way interactions of stress × genotype and genotype × harvest, and the three-way interaction of stress × genotype × harvest for all traits except cellulose. Additionally, the interaction between stress and harvest was significant for all traits except ash. Based on the results of mean comparisons, genotypes 2, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17 showed superior performance under drought stress, exhibiting higher crude protein and lower ADF and NDF values, which indicate better forage quality. Conclusion: This study confirms that forage quality evaluation under water-limited conditions is an effective approach to identifying high-value, drought-tolerant genotypes. The promising performance of selected genotypes suggests that Festuca pratensis has strong potential for development in arid and semi-arid regions. These findings provide a valuable foundation for future breeding programs aimed at producing drought-resilient cultivars while maintaining forage quality. Furthermore, integrating forage quality indicators with drought tolerance traits could enhance the precision and efficiency of genotype selection in breeding programs. Long-term and multi-location trials are recommended to verify the adaptability and stability of the identified genotypes under diverse environmental conditions. The results may inform water resource management strategies in forage production systems under similar climatic conditions.