Table of Content

20 May 2016, Volume 25 Issue 5

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RelationshipbetweenplantspeciescharacteristicsandclimatefactorsindifferentgrasslandtypesofXinjiang

LIU Li-Li, SHENG Jian-Dong, CHENG Jun-Hui, LIU Yun-Hua, LI Rui-Xia, ZHAO Dan

2016, 25(5):  1-12.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015517

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For 364 field sites representing seven grassland types in Xinjiang, species lists were compiled, and the distribution of plant families, genera and species across the different grassland types cataloged. In addition, we examined the species richness (SR) response to mean annual precipitation (MAP), mean annual temperature (MAT) and altitude. The Poaceae and Ateraceae were the dominant families, and Stipa, and Seriphidium were among the dominant genera at all sites. The grassland types ranked for SR (from high to low): temperate meadow steppe (7.73), temperate steppe (5.04), alpine steppe (4.36), temperate desert steppe (3.99), temperate steppe desert (3.02), temperate desert (2.08), low plain meadow (1.43). Patterns of SR response to MAP, MAT and altitude were also detected. In Xinjiang grassland temperate steppe, SR was positively and linearly related to MAP, but unimodally related to MAT and altitude. In alpine steppe and low plain meadow, SR was positively and linearly related with MAP and negatively related with MAT, but SR decreased from low to mid altitude and then increased with increasing altitude. In temperate desert steppe, SR was significantly positively related to MAP, but was not significantly related to MAT and altitude. In alpine steppe and low plain meadow, the SR was positively and linearly related to MAP and negatively related to MAT, but unimodally related to altitude. No significant relationship was found between SR and MAT, MAP, or altitude in temperate meadow steppe and temperate steppe desert grasslands. The above results in the different grassland types might be explained by response characteristics of particular species, spatial variation of temperature and precipitation, and the altitude range, steepness of slope and large scale climate characteristics of the study area.

AnevaluationoftheHargreavesmethodforestimatingreferenceevapotranspirationindifferentgrasslandtypesinInnerMongolia,China

SUN Xiao-Long, WU Rong-Sheng, LI Ping, LI Dan

2016, 25(5):  13-20.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015349

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Reference crop evapotranspiration (ET₀) is a comprehensive indication of the effect of meteorological conditions on crop water requirement, and it is an important tool for grassland management and water resource monitoring. Using meteorological data from 1971 to 2014, ET₀ in 6 stations was calculated by Penman-Monteith and Hargreaves models, the performance of the Hargreaves model in different types of grassland in Inner Mongolia was analyzed, and the Hargreaves model was revised. It was found that the daily ET₀ calculated with the Hargreaves model was below that of the Penman-Monteith model. The bias error (BE) and mean bias error (MBE) were 0.539 mm and 20.98%, respectively. The correlation coefficient increased from 0.494-0.874 to 0.863-0.985 after revision, and the BE and MBE were also significantly reduced, with the BE decreasing from 38.82 mm to 5.84 mm, and the MBE also decreasing from 36.79% to 7.76% of monthly ET₀. A non-parametric test indicated there was no significant difference between Penman-Monteith and Hargreaves models after revision of the latter. The revised Hargreaves model is sufficiently accurate to meet the requirements of research and practice, and has potential to be widely used, especially in areas where weather station data is relatively scarce, as is the case in many areas in China.

EffectsoffencingonvegetationcommunitycharacteristicsandsoilpropertiesofatypicalsteppeinInnerMongolia

YANG Yong, LIU Ai-Jun, LI Lan-Hua, CHEN Hai-Jun, SONG Xiang-Yang, WANG Bao-Lin, LUO Dong, WANG Ming-Jiu

2016, 25(5):  21-29.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015334

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Fencing is one of the important means of restoration and reconstruction of degraded grassland, and has been widely used in grassland ecological restoration programs in China. This study monitored fenced and free-grazed grassland plots, to evaluate the impacts of fencing on community plant species composition, composition of functional groups, species diversity, aboveground biomass, soil organic carbon (C) and total nitrogen (N) contents of degraded grassland. The plant species number in fenced plots (22 species) was greater than that in free-grazed plots (17 species). Community diversity (H), richness (Pa), evenness (JP) indices and aboveground biomass did not differ significantly between fenced and free-grazed plots (P>0.05). Importance value (IV), percentage, aboveground biomass,H,Pa and JP indices of shrubs, semi-shrubs (SS) and perennial forbs (PF) in fenced plots were higher than those in free-grazed plots (P<0.05). Aboveground biomass of perennial grasses (PG) was higher in fenced plots than in free-grazed plots (P<0.05). Importance value (IV), percentage, aboveground biomass,H,Pa and JP indices of annual or biennial herbs (AB) were lower in fenced plots than in free-grazed plots (P<0.05). The percentage and aboveground biomass of ecological functional groups did not differ significantly between fenced plots and free-grazed plots (P>0.05). Soil organic C and total N content were not significantly different between fenced plots and free-grazed plots (P>0.05). The soil organic C and total N contents decreased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing soil depth, but the rate of decrease with depth was less in fenced plots than in free-grazed plots.

Preliminary evaluation of drought resistance for the hybrid zoysiagrass ‘Suzhi No.1’

WANG Yi, GUO Hai-Lin, CHEN Jing-Bo, ZONG Jun-Qin, LI Dan-Dan, JIANG Yi-Wei, LIU Jian-Xiu

2016, 25(5):  30-39.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015356

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An experiment was carried out to evaluate the drought resistance of hybrid zoysiagrass ‘Suzhi No.1’, compared with Zoysia japonica ‘Lanyin No.3’ as the control. Plant materials were cultured in sand in PVC tubes in a greenhouse and drought treatments were implemented by withholding water. Leaf wilting (LW), leaf relative water content (RWC), root electrolyte leakage (REL), soil water content (SWC), root growth characteristics including root dry weight (RDW) and specific root length (SRL), as well as maximum quantum yield of PSⅡ (F_v/F_m) were measured under drought stress. The drought resistance of ‘Suzhi No.1’ was initially evaluated based on LW, RWC, REL and SWC. Both cultivars showed gradual increases in LW, exhibiting slight wilting on the 12th day of drought stress, moderate wilting on the 29th day and severe wilting after 40 days. SWC values decreased gradually with both cultivars displaying similar trends during the stress period. Drought stress also caused significant declines in RWC and rises in REL. By the end of the treatment (40th day), no differences in LW, RWC, REL and SWC were found indicating that the performance of ‘Suzhi No.1’ was similar to ‘Lanyin No.3’ under drought stress. Although ‘Suzhi No.1’ had smaller RDW to ‘Lanyin No.3’, it also had larger SRL and could keep higher F_v/F_m values in the middle of the stress period, potentially an important drought resistance mechanism. With relatively denser roots and higher photochemical efficiency, it is probable that ‘Suzhi No.1’ was able to offset the adverse effects of smaller root biomass. In summary, ‘Suzhi No.1’ and ‘Lanyin No.3’ had similar drought resistance but with different resistant mechanisms.

Effects of exogenous Ca²⁺ on growth, photosynthetic characteristics and photosystem II function of maize seedlings under cadmium stress

WANG Yu-Ping, CHANG Hong, LI Cheng, LIANG Yan-Chao, LU Xiao

2016, 25(5):  40-48.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015239

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To investigate how calcium relieves cadmium toxicity in maize, the effects of exogenous Ca²⁺ on growth properties, photosynthetic characteristics and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters of maize seedlings under cadmium stress were studied in a pot experiment. A treatment with 100 mg/L of cadmium obviously inhibited the growth of maize seedlings, decreased the biomass of plants, and decreased the contents of chlorophyll a, b and a+b of leaves. At the same time, the net photosynthetic rate (P_n), stomatal conductance (G_s), transpiration rate (T_r), the maximal PSⅡ efficiency (F_v/F_m), photosynthetic electron transfer rate (ETR), the efficiency of excitation energy capture by open PSⅡ centers (F_v'/F_m'), photochemical quenching coefficient (qP), and the actual PSⅡ efficiency (Φ_PSⅡ) were reduced whereas the intercellular CO₂ concentration (C_i) and non-photochemical fluorescence quenching coefficient (NPQ) were increased under cadmium stress. Supply of exogenous Ca²⁺ under cadmium stress promoted the growth of seedlings, increased the biomass of plants and raised the contents of chlorophyll a, b and a+b of leaves. At the same time, P_n, G_s, T_r, F_v/F_m, ETR, F_v'/F_m', qP and Φ_PSⅡ of leaves tended to be increased with increased exogenous Ca²⁺ concentration, but C_i and NPQ were reduced. Among different Ca²⁺ application rates, 7.5 to 10.0 mmol/L Ca²⁺ had the greatest alleviation of Cd toxicity effects. It is suggested that Cd stress led to a decrease in the photochemical efficiency of PSⅡ, reduction in electron transfer, and reduction in net photosynthetic rate. Exogenous Ca²⁺at appropriate concentrations had favorable effects on seedling growth, including enhanced performance of the photosynthetic apparatus and capture of solar energy, effectively ameliorate Cd-induced depression of photosynthesis and enhancing the resistance of maize seedlings to Cd stress.

Effects of flooding on photosynthesis, growth and nutrient content of Cynodon dactylon

HAN Wen-Jiao, BAI Lin-Li, LI Chang-Xiao

2016, 25(5):  49-59.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015472

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A flooding simulation experiment was conducted to detect the effects of flooding on photosynthesis, growth and nutrient concentrations of Cynodon dactylon. Two flooding-depth levels, surface flooding (SF) and total flooding (TF) were imposed, and compared with control (CK). Net photosynthetic rate (P_n), stomatal conductance (G_s), transpiration rate (T_r) and stomatal limitation (L_s) of C. dactylon under SF were significantly lower than those for the CK treatment, while the intercellular CO₂ concentration (C_i) was significantly higher. However, water use efficiency (WUE) did not differ significantly between SF and the CK treatment. Under SF, root length, root surface, root volume, branch number, leaf number, root biomass, leaf biomass and root∶shoot ratio were all significantly reduced, whereas plant height, base diameter, stem biomass and total biomass did not differ significantly between SF and CK. Under TF, root length, root surface, root volume, plant height, branch number, leaf number, root biomass, base diameter, stem biomass and total biomass were also significantly lower than those of CK. Compared to CK, root nutrient concentrations (N, P, K, Fe, and Mn) of C. dactylon under SF and TF were increased, whereas Cu content was significantly decreased. Leaf concentrations of Fe and Mn under SF were significantly increased, but the contents of P, K and Cu under SF were significantly decreased, compared to CK. Thus flooding resulted in significant reductions in photosynthesis, growth, and uptake of nutrients of C. dactylon. The reduction of leaf concentrations of P, K, and Cu and the rise in leaf concentrations of Fe, and Mn could account for the reduction in P_n. However, C. dactylon was able to improve the absorption of N, P, and K, promote stem elongation and maintain a high net photosynthetic rate to cope with flooding. Additionally, when flooded, leaf N and P could potentially be directly released into the water on leaf fall, which could increase the risk of eutrophication in waterways.

Changes in carbohydrate status and related enzymes of Lilium pumilum bulbs during breaking dormancy under refrigerated conditions

LIU Fang, CHEN Ye-Wen, LI Dan-Dan, LIAN Hua, WU Xia, YANG Jin, LI Yu-Qi, XIE Shou-Feng, CHEN Xue-Wu

2016, 25(5):  60-68.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015343

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The changes in carbohydrate levels and related enzyme activities during breaking dormancy under low temperature were studied in Lilium pumilum. Sugar metabolic activity was strong during breaking dormancy and the starch content of bulbs decreased, while amylase activity remained high. The concentration of soluble sugars peaked at 60 d of storage. In the early phase of storage, the sucrose content, and the activities of sucrose synthase (SS) and sucrose phosphate synthase were rising, synergistically controlling sucrose metabolism and transport. Under refrigeration the metabolism of starch to soluble sugar promoted an increase in AGPase activity. The functions and changes of enzymes involved in starch metabolism in different parts of the bulb were different. There were significantly or very significantly positive correlations of total soluble sugar content with the contents of sucrose and glucose, and the activities of starch phosphorylase, SS, and alpha and beta amylases in different parts of bulbs. Sugar metabolism was the primary metabolic activity for breaking dormancy of bulbs.

Changes in sugar, pyruvic acid content and nitrate reductase activity of Elymus sibiricus reproductive branches during seed development

LIU Jin-Ping, FAN Xuan, YOU Ming-Hong, WANG Si-Si, ZONG Ren-Xu

2016, 25(5):  69-77.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015502

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When Elymus sibiricus was in the filling stage, milk stage and dough stage, respectively, components of reproductive branch, including leave, stem, spike-handle, spike-stalk and seed all were used as research subject. Some index, including soluble sugars (SS), sucrose (SU), starch (ST), respiration intermediate product pyruvate acid (PA) content and nitrate reductase activity (NR) were measured. The objective of study was to analyze the difference of sugar content, respiration rate and metabolic rate of nitrogen during the seed development and among either component, to research the transfer rule of filling material from the source to the library during the seed development, and to explore the relationship between seed plumpness and material content of components. The results showed that: 1) SS, SU and PA content and NR activity exists high significant difference during the seed development and among either components (P<0.01). ST content exists significant difference among either component, and only a little change during the seed development. 2) With seed developing, SS and SU content of either component significantly decline (P<0.05), but ST content has no significant rising. PA content significantly increases at milk stage, but significantly decreases at dough stage (P<0.05). NR activity in the filling stage and milk stage were no difference, but significantly decrease in the dough stage (P<0.05). 3) During the seed development, PA content of leave is significantly higher than that of other components, but SS, SU and ST content and NR activity in the spike-stalk are several times higher than those of other components. 4) During filling stage, NR activity has a significantly positive correlation with SS, ST, SU content and PA activity (P<0.05), with the correlation order of ST>SU>SS>PA. During milk stage, the correlation order between NR activity and sugar content was SS>ST>SU, and NR activity has no significant correlation with PA content (P<0.05). During dough stage, NR activity only has a significant correlation with SS and ST content (P<0.01). 5) Seed plumpness has a significantly positive correlation with SS content of leave, PA content of spike-handle and NR activity and ST content of seed (P<0.05), and a significantly negative correlation with NR activity and SU content of spike-stalk (P<0.05). In a word, components of reproductive branch all participate in material transportation from source to library during seed development. At the milk stage, transportation speed and storage deposit are fastest, and spike-stalk has a control function on source-library flow. Nitrogen metabolism rate is significantly associated with seed plumpness.

Effects of Piriformospora indica fungus on growth and drought resistance in alfalfa under water deficit stress

WU Mei-Yan, HAO Ruo-Chao, ZHANG Wen-Ying

2016, 25(5):  78-86.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015366

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Pot experiments were conducted to evaluate the growth and drought resistance of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) seedlings colonized by Piriformospora indica fungus. The experiment comprised a 2×2 factorial combination of inoculation (inoculated, I, or un-inoculated, NI) and drought (droughted, D or not, ND) treatments, giving 4 combinations: I-D, I-ND, NI-D (reference), and NI-ND. For the inoculated plants, 40 mL of inoculant with P. indica mycelium was applied, and for control plants, 40 mL of sterile water was added. Soil water content was 75%-80% of field capacity for the normal irrigation treatment and 15%-20% for the drought treatments. Fresh shoot and root weights, root length, dry shoot and root weights, chlorophyll (SPAD), relative water content (RWC), antioxidase enzyme activity, , methane dicarboxylic aldehyde (MDA) and osmolytes were determined for all treatments. The fungus strongly colonized the roots of alfalfa, infecting 87.4% of seedlings. When the colonized plants were exposed to drought stress, the fresh shoot weight, dry shoot weight, chlorophyll, relative water content and the number of leaves per plant were promoted significantly by 63.4%, 69.2%, 12.5%, 17.1% and 5.7, respectively. In addition the fresh root weight, dry root weight, length of taproot and number of lateral roots were improved significantly by 33.3%, 57.1%, 5.1 cm and 5 roots, respectively, compared to the reference plants (NI-D). Furthermore, the activities of super-oxide, peroxidases, catalases, and the levels of proline and of soluble sugar in the leaves increased by 1.71, 1.27, 1.22, 1.49 and 1.48 times, respectively, and the contents of and MDA decreased significantly. In summary, P. indica fungus enhanced the growth and drought tolerance of alfalfa in the seeding stage by stimulating the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the content of osmolytes, while under normal irrigation, the fungus had no significant effect on the growth of alfalfa.

EffectsofkeyenzymesandproductsinphenylpropanoidpathwayofLyciuminfectedbyFusariumoxysporum

LI Jie, FENG Li-Dan, YANG Cheng-De, WANG You-Ke, HE Jing, ZHANG Bao-Lin, CHEN Xiu-Rong

2016, 25(5):  87-94.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2016024

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In this study, the phenylpropanoid pathway of the interaction of wolfberry and root rot pathogens will be discussed. The relationship between wolfberry phenylpropanoid pathway and disease resistance will be clarified. In this study, the experimental materials are cultivated varieties NingqiⅠ, NingqiⅡ; domestic wild species Lyciumchinense,L.barbarum; wild species of America L.brevipes,L.exsertum. The strong pathogenic Fusariumoxysporum isolated from the onset of wolfberry will be inoculation by root cutting method. And the anti-sense wolfbeey will be choose. This 2 kinds of wolfberry as materials to study the change of phenylalanine ammonia lyase, cinnamic acid hydroxylase, 4-hydroxylase p-coumaric acyl-coenzyme A ligase, phenolics and flavonoids in 20 days. The results show that the disease resistance of wild materials are strong than the cultivated material in 6 kinds of test materials which were inoculated with wolfberry root rot strong pathogen F.oxysporum. NingqiⅠis susceptible materials. The resistance to root rot disease of L.exsertum are strongest. The key enzymes of phenylpropanoid pathway like phenylalnine ammonialyase, trans-cinnamic acid-4-hydroxylase, 4-coumarate: coenzyme A ligase activity are significantly higher than Ningqi Ⅰ. Initially identified the phenylalnine ammonialyase, trans-cinnamic acid-4-hydroxylase, 4-coumarate: coenzyme A ligase activity and flavonoid content of phenylpropanoid pathway of test material resistance to root rot disease was positively correlated. Therefore, the phenylalnine ammonialyase, trans-cinnamic acid-4-hydroxylase, 4-coumarate: coenzyme A ligase enzyme activity and flavonoid content can be a screening of anti-Chinese wolfberry Fusarium root rot of biochemical indexes preliminary.

ResistanceevaluationofdifferentalfalfavarietiestoFusariumsporotrichioides

PAN Long-Qi, ZHANG Li, TIAN Jin-Shan, YUAN Qing-Hua, WANG Yu, MIAO Li-Hong

2016, 25(5):  95-101.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015331

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The present study evaluated the resistance of 30 alfalfa varieties to Fusariumsporotrichioides by inoculation of 45 d old seedlings in a greenhouse. Resistant and susceptible varieties were selected based on the root disease index after 10 days of inoculation and were further evaluated by inoculation pathogen and measuring enzymes activities after 4,8 and 12 hours inoculation. The results showed that there were four resistant varieties: Jinnan, Xunlu, PG Saite and Sulian No.2, which together accounted for 13.3%. There were seven highly sensitive varieties: Xinjiangdaye, Zhongmu No.1, Longzhong, Beijiang, Huangguan, Gansu and Salansi, which together accounted for 23.3%. The remaining varieties were all sensitive and together accounted for 63.4%. There were no resistant or immune varieties. Measurement of enzyme activities showed highly significant variations in CAT, SOD and PAL activities among the different varieties, for both the inoculated samples and for the controls without inoculation. Enzyme activities in inoculated plants were higher than those of control plants and enzyme activities in the resistant varieties were higher than those of susceptible varieties. Enzyme activity increased after 4-8 d inoculation and decreased after 8-12 d inoculation. CAT activity of the inoculated plants significantly increased compared to the control, while SOD and PAL activities did not significantly increase.

Effects of phosphorus application on alfalfa resistance to thrips (Thripidae)

ZHANG Xiao-Yan, WANG Sen-Shan, LI Xiao-Long, LI Ya-Juan, HU Gui-Xin

2016, 25(5):  102-108.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015457

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To investigate whether phosphorus improve tolerance to thrips effectively, two alfalfa varieties were chosen for the study, Gannong No.9 (resistant to thrips) and Gannong No.3 (susceptible to thrips). The damage index, phosphorus content in plants and agronomic traits were evaluated and measured at different phosphorus (P₂O₅) levels (0, 6, 12, 18 g/m²) treatment during the thrips damaging peak in field. The results showed that the damage index of Gannong No.3 and Gannong No.9 decreased with the phosphorus levels increasing, in addition, phosphorus content of plants increased, and yield, height and leaf water content increased significantly, the stem-leaf ratio reduced. Correlation analysis indicated that the phosphorus content of plants and leaf water content correlated negative significantly with the damage index of alfalfa, but the phosphorus content of plants had no correlation with the damage index in second cutting,while the stem-leaf ratio correlated positively with the damage index. The damage index of Gannong No.3 were higher than Gannong No.9 at the same phosphorus level, but no obvious difference with Gannong No.9 at the phosphorus (P₂O₅) levels (12,18 g/m²) treatment in second cutting. Gannong No.3 damage index with phosphorus treatment were lower than Gannong No.9’s without phosphorus application. The phosphorus can enhance the resistance of alfalfa to thrips effectively by improving the growth performance. Therefore, the phosphorus management was an effective measure on enhancing the tolerance of alfalfa to thrips in field. The most economic fertilizer was 12(P₂O₅) g/m² in this experiment.

Establishment and application of rapid molecular detection for Fusarium oxysporum

WU Wen-Xian, LIU Yong, HUANG Xiao-Qin, ZHANG Lei, ZHOU Xi-Quan, LIU Hong-Yu

2016, 25(5):  109-115.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015335

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It is difficult to distinguish Fusarium oxysporum from other Fusarium species using traditional morphological observations or molecular analysis based on rDNA-ITS sequencing. In order to accurately identify F. oxysporumin legumes, a pair of primers named P₁/P₂ was designed based on differences in ribosomal DNA intergenic spacer (rDNA-IGS) sequences of the Fusarium genus, which can be used to amplify DNA from F. oxysporum by conventional PCR. More than 23 species of root rot pathogens were used to verify the specificity of the primers. P₁/P₂ could amplify a unique 1081 bp sequence from different biotypes of F. oxysporum while it could not amplify from other root rot pathogens. The sensitivity of P₁/P₂ was 100 pg for genomic DNA and 100 conidia/g soil for the root rot pathogens. Furthermore, this pair of primers could directly amplify sequences from the genomic DNA of F. oxysporum diseased plant samples without pathogen isolation, indicating that this is a rapid and effective legume root rot pathogen detection technology.

QTL location of anthocyanin content and yield in tetraploid pigmented potato

CUI Kuo-Shu, YU Xiao-Xia, YU Zhuo, JIANG Chao, SHI Yue

2016, 25(5):  116-124.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015369

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To identify QTLs for three important traits, anthocyanin content, single plant yield and commodity rate in a pigmented potatoes, 210 plants from a F₁ segregated population resulting from a cross of ‘heimeiren’בMIN-021’ and their parents, anthocyanin content, single plant yield and commodity potato rate were measured over two consecutive years. Differences between parents and the F₁ population were assessed using variance analysis and the QTLs of each trait were constructed using high density genetic linkage maps with TetraploidMap software. The result demonstrated that the frequency distribution of all three traits was normal in the F₁ population and therefore suitable for QTL analysis. A total of 13 QTLs were detected on a maternal linkage map of ‘heimeiren’, including 5 QTLs controlling anthocyanin content, 4 QTLs controlling single plant yield and 4 QTLs controlling commodity potato rate. The genetic contribution ratio ranged from 7.98% to 19.62%; a total of 11 QTLs were detected on a paternal linkage map of ‘MIN-021’, including 4 QTLs controlling anthocyanin content, 4 QTLs controlling single plant yield and 3 QTLs controlling commodity potato rate. The genetic contribution ratio ranged from 8.70% to 21.62%.

Analysis of genetic diversity in Sorghum germplasm collections using SSR markers

WANG Fang, GAO Qiu, WANG Jie, MA Jin-Xing, SUN Juan

2016, 25(5):  125-133.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015336

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Fifteen SSR markers were used to quantify the genetic diversity of the core germplasm collections of sorghum. A total of 161 accessions were assayed. 118 bands were generated, among which 88 (75.21%) were polymorphic. The average value of polymorphic information content (PIC) was 0.699 (0.612-0.806); the average Nei’s gene diversity index (H) was 0.696; and the average Shannon information index (I) was 1.393. The genetic similarities among the 161 accessions ranged from 0.636 to 0.977. The UPGMA dendrogram indicated that the 161 Sorghum germplasm collections were clustered into three groups with a threshold of 0.682, and that the 129 Sorghum sudanense and Sorghum bicolorx×Sorghum sudanense germplasm resources were divided into two clusters at a threshold of 0.671. This study demonstrated that there is considerable genetic diversity conserved in Sorghum germplasm collections and SSR is an ideal molecular marker for assessing this diversity.

Effect of additives on the quality of Asparagus officinalis stem leaf silage

GUO Hai-Ming, ZHU Wen, ZHANG Yong, HUANG Wen-Ming, JIAO Yang, YE Jun-An

2016, 25(5):  134-140.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015380

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The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different additives on the quality of Asparagus officinalis silage (stem and leaf). Lactobacillus, lactobacillus+cellulose, lactobacillus+rice bran and lactobacillus+cellulose+rice bran were added to silage; the concentration of lactobacillus, cellulose and rice bran were 5×10⁵ cfu/g, 0.6 IU/g, 30 mg/g of fresh weight respectively. After being ensiled for 90 days, the quality of A. officinalis stem leaf silage was assessed. The chemical composition, pH, NH₃-N and organic acid content of fermented juice were analysed. The data showed that, compared with the control group, the addition of lactobacillus increased the acetic acid content, reduced aerobic deterioration (P<0.05) and improved the aerobic stability. Lactobacillus with rice bran and cellulose tended to lower the quality of A. officinalis stem leaf silage. The results demonstrated that high quality A. officinalis stem leaf silage can be obtained with addition of lactobacillus only.

Isolation and characterization of rumen yeast and an evaluation of its effect on ruminal fermentation with different types of substrate

WANG Xiao-Cheng, LIU Jun-Hua, ZHU Wei-Yun, MAO Sheng-Yong

2016, 25(5):  141-148.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015348

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This study was conducted to isolate rumen yeast and evaluate its possible role in changing fermentation characteristics by using in vitro fermentation with three different substrates. A yeast strain with a fast growth rate belonging to the Meyerozyma genus was isolated through screening, growth curve determination and identification of 26S rDNA using a selective medium of yeast composed of goat and dairy cow ruminal fluid. The effect of this isolated culture on ruminal fermentation was evaluated with three substrates: Chinese wildrye plus concentrate mixture, potato starch and corn starch. Ruminal fluid from dairy cattle was used as an inoculant. The results showed that with the Chinese wildrye plus concentrate mixture as substrate, yeast addition decreased ruminal pH and the concentration of lactic acid (P<0.001), while it increased the concentration of propionic acid and the digestibility of dry matter (P<0.05). The addition of yeast decreased ruminal pH and lactic concentration (P<0.001) in the corn starch substrate. Moreover, the addition of yeast culture decreased ruminal pH (P<0.05) and increased the concentration of propionic acid (P<0.05). However, total gas production and concentrations of ammonia-N, acetic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, valeric acid and isovaleric acid were not affected (P>0.05) by yeast addition in the three substrate groups. The real-time PCR data showed that isolate addition increased the number of total bacteria in the Chinese wildrye plus concentrate and potato starch substrates. Results indicate that the rumen yeast isolates can improve the rumen’s dietary degradation capability and reduce lactic acid levels for the Chinese wildrye plus concentrate and corn starch substrates. This suggests that the yeast isolates could improve digestibility efficiency in ways that enhance the propionate production and the growth of ruminal bacteria.

Degradation characteristics of four types of peanut straw in the rumen of dairy cows

ZHENG Xiang-Li, WANG Jun-Hong, XU Guo-Zhong, WENG Bo-Qi, HUANG Xiu-Sheng, YAN Hou-Han

2016, 25(5):  149-155.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015354

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In order to study the degradation characteristics of four types of peanut straw in dairy cow rumens, the disappearance rates and effective degradability of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were determined using the nylon-bag method. The results showed that the disappearance rate and effective degradability of DM at 72 h were the highest in the Shan G type of peanut straw (66.07% and 49.37%, respectively), while the values decreased successively from TJ to Quanhua No.7 and TI. CP disappearance rate and effective degradability followed similar trends. Shan G had the highest values (73.16% and 59.20%, respectively) at 72 h. The CP disappearance rate decreased successively from Quanhua No.7 to TJ and TI, while the CP effective degradability decreased successively from TJ to TI and Quanhua No.7. At 72 h, the disappearance rates of NDF and ADF of Quanhua No.7 were the highest and decreased successively from Shan G and TJ to TI. The effective degradability of NDF was the highest for Shan G and decreased successively from TI to Quanhua No.7 and TJ. The effective degradability of ADF was the highest for Quanhua No.7 and decreased successively from Shan G to TI and TJ. In conclusion, Shan G has the highest and TI has the lowest nutritional value among the four types of peanut straw tested for dairy cows.

Effect of replacing alfalfa hay with alfalfa silage on production performance and milk quality in dairy cows

ZHU Xiao-Yan, ZHAO Cheng, SHI Ying-Hua, WANG Cheng-Zhang, YAO Guo-Lei, LV Xian-Zhao, HAN Kang-Kang, LI Dong-Dong

2016, 25(5):  156-164.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015498

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This experiment was conducted to study the effect of replacing alfalfa (Medicago sativa) hay with alfalfa silage on milk production and quality, forage digestibility, blood biochemical indices and economic benefits in dairy cows. Fifteen healthy multiparous Chinese Holstein cows with similar body weight, milk yield and parity at mid lactation were randomly allocated to 3 groups, with 5 cows in each group. The control group fed a total mixed ration diet of 4.0 kg alfalfa hay/(head·d). The trial groups A and B were fed 4.4 kg and 8.8 kg alfalfa silage, equivalent to 2.0 kg and 4.0 kg of alfalfa hay on a dry matter basis, respectively. The trial lasted 64 days. There were no differences between the control group and test groups in dry matter intake (P>0.05). Milk yield in the control group was significantly higher than that in B group (P<0.05), but was not different to A group (P>0.05). Protein, fat and lactose content in the milk were improved in the test groups with the increased silage substitution, but only the milk fat content in B group was significantly higher than that in control group (P<0.05). The apparent digestibility of NDF and Ca in the test groups did not different from the control (P>0.05). The apparent digestibility of crude protein and phosphorus did not different between A and B groups (P>0.05). In contrast, the test groups had a significantly lower apparent crude protein digestibility and significantly higher phosphorus digestibility than the control group (P<0.05). There were no differences among the test groups and control group for cow blood total protein, albumin, urea nitrogen, glucose and carbon dioxide (P>0.05). Compared with the control group, the economic benefit of group A was 0.61 yuan/(head·d). This research showed that substituting 4.4 kg alfalfa silage for 2.0 kg alfalfa hay can improve the production performance, milk quality and economic benefits.

Effects of peanut vine∶corn silage ratio on milk production, blood biochemistry and nitrogen use in dairy cows

WANG Xiao-Xiao, LIAN Hong-Xia, QIN Wen-Xiao, LI Gai-Ying, SUN Yu, FU Tong, GAO Teng-Yun

2016, 25(5):  165-174.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015551

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This experiment was conducted to assess the use of peanut vine to increase nitrogen availability in the diet of dairy cows. Twelve healthy Chinese Holstein dairy cows in mid-lactation were allotted to 3 groups with 4 replicates based on production performance, lactation stage, body weight and physiological status and feed different rations. The trial used a 3×3 Latin square design including three periods; each period had a 15 day pre-trial period and a 6 day sampling period. Cows were fed diets with peanut vine to corn silage ratio of 1.0∶3.9 (A), 1.0∶1.2 (B) and 1.0∶0.4 (C). Dry matter intake, milk production and blood traits were not affected by the peanut vine∶corn silage ratio (P>0.05). There were also no differences in milk composition (P>0.05), but milk somatic cell count showed a decrease trend with an increase in peanut vine content; somatic cell count of group B decreased by 35.4% compared with group A. The economic performance was increased by increasing peanut vine in the diet. Feces nitrogen (N)/N intake was decreased in group B (P<0.05). The effects of peanut vine∶corn silage ratio on production, nitrogen use and economic benefit of dairy cows was considered; N use and economic benefits were greatest when the peanut vine∶corn silage ratio was 1.0∶1.2.

The effect of high-grain diets on small intestinal fermentation, morphological structure and microbial flora in goats

XUE Chun-Xu, YE Hui-Min, FENG Pan-Fei, LIU Jun-Hua, MAO Sheng-Yong

2016, 25(5):  175-183.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015381

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This study investigated the effect of high-grain (HG) diets on microbial fermentation, epithelial tissue morphology, alkaline phosphatase activity and the quantity of microbial flora in the small intestine of goats. Twelve goats were randomly allocated to two groups (6 in each group) and were fed a hay (0% grain) or HG diet (75% grain) for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks of feeding, the goats were slaughtered to collect small intestinal digesta and tissue for analysis. The results showed that: 1) Compared with the hay group, HG feeding significantly increased the concentrations of total volatile fatty acid (P=0.015), propionate (P=0.008), butyrate (P=0.004) and isobutyrate (P=0.035), while it significantly decreased the concentration of lactic acid (P=0.008). However, HG diet feeding did not influence pH or the concentrations of acetate, valerate, isovalerate and LPS in jejuna digesta (P>0.05); Compared with the hay group, HG diet increased the concentrations of total volatile fatty acid (P=0.007), propionate (P=0.013), butyrate (P=0.008), valerate (P<0.001), lactic acid (P=0.008) and lipopolysaccharide levels (P<0.001), while it decreased the pH value (P=0.005) in ileal digesta. There were no significant differences in the concentrations of acetate, isobutyrate, isovalerate between the hay and HG groups (P>0.05).2) Compared with the control, HG feeding significantly increased villi height and crypt depth in the duodenum, jejunum and ileum tissue (P<0.001). The ratio of villus height to crypt depth (V/C) increased in the jejunum (P=0.024). Transmission electron micrographs of jejunum and ileum tissue during the HG diet displayed a deterioration of the tight junction.3) Compared with the control, HG diets significantly increased the alkaline phosphatase activity of ileal mucosa (P<0.05), but had no influence on the alkaline phosphatase activity of jejunum mucosa (P>0.05). 4) Real-time PCR analysis showed that in ileum digesta the 16S rRNA gene copies of Bacteroidetes from the HG group were significantly lower than for the hay group (P=0.037). The HG group showed an increase in the ratio of Firmicutesto Bacteroidetes (P<0.001), while there was no significant difference in the 16S rRNA gene copies of Firmicutes (P>0.05). No significant differences (P>0.05) between the hay and HG groups’ jejunum digesta were observed in the 16S rRNA gene copies of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes, or in the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. In summary, these results indicate that feeding goats high proportions of grain can significantly influence the morphological characteristics of ileal epithelium and microbial fermentation in ileal digesta, and may have a negative effect on the health of goats.

The behavioral and physiological indices of Hu sheep in the arid and cold areas of northwest China

XI Rui, LI Fa-Di, WANG Wei-Min, LI Chong, LA Yong-Fu, LIU Ting, PAN Xiang-Yu, TANG De-Fu, LI Bao-Sheng

2016, 25(5):  184-191.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015241

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The objective of this study was to investigate the behavioral and physiological indices of Hu sheep in the arid and cold areas of northwest China. Twelve 1-year-old Hu sheep (6 rams and 6 ewes) were evenly divided into two groups. The effects of season (A factor: A₁ summer, A₂ winter), sex (B factor: B₁♂, B₂♀) and time (C factor: C₁ day, C₂ night) on feed intake, water intake, rumination, resting time and physiological indices were measured using near-infrared camera techniques. The results showed that seasonal factors had highly significant effects on feed intake, rumination and resting time (P<0.01). The sex factor had significant effects on feed intake and resting time (P<0.05), while the time factor had significant effects on resting time (P<0.05) and highly significant effects on rumination (P<0.01). In addition, only the seasonal and sex factors interacted with feed intake (P<0.05) and rumination (P<0.01). The physiological indices of Hu sheep, for instance body temperature, heartbeat, respiratory rate and blood routine examination, were within normal ranges during this experiment. In conclusion, there was no significant impact on the fundamental characteristics and general performance of Hu sheep and it is feasible to introduce them into the arid and cold areas of northwest China.

Evaluation of virtual water flow associated with agricultural trade between China and Africa and implications for water saving between China and Africa

JIA Yan, ZHANG Ren-Zhi, ZHANG Jun

2016, 25(5):  192-201.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015238

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Virtual water trade is a useful tool for international resource adjustment and has already become an important means for countries or regions facing a scarcity of water resources to trade surplus resources in order to alleviate serious water shortage, so as to guarantee food security and sufficient water supply for essential needs. Here we calculate the quantity of virtual water represented by agricultural trade between China and Africa from 2003 to 2012. The virtual water transfer features distinctive geographic and temporal pattern. From 2003 to 2012, the total amount of virtual water China imported from Africa was 769.71×10⁸ m³, the average virtual water was 76.97×10⁸ m³/year, while the quantity exported to Africa was 427.27×10⁸ m³. Hence there is a net import of virtual water. The countries that are major suppliers of virtual water to China are Mozambique, South Africa, Burkina Faso, Benin and Mali. The major African importers of virtual water from China are South Africa, Morocco, and the Ivory Coast. The agricultural products contributing most to virtual water import by China from Africa are cotton, fruits and animal products; while products contributing significantly to visual water exports from China to Africa are tea, cereals and animal products. The overall balance of virtual water trade between China and Africa moves agricultural products from areas with low efficiency of water use to areas of higher efficiency of water use. This creates a negative impact on global water use efficiency, and a waste of 5.91×10⁸ m³ of water. From a bilateral perspective, the virtual water transfer associated with agricultural trade between China and Africa has desirable water use efficiency benefits for both sides. However, from a global perspective, wasteful virtual water transfer such as this is not sustainable.

Alfalfa in ancient China: Botanical aspects

SUN Qi-Zhong, LIU Qian, LI Feng, TAO Ya

2016, 25(5):  202-213.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015345

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Utilising records of alfalfa botany in ancient texts, this research investigated alfalfa textology in ancient China. Alfalfa was introduced to China during the Han dynasty. The distribution and adaptation of alfalfa in ancient China and morphological characteristics of alfalfa are stressed. The research clarified the source and cultural area of alfalfa and confirmed Medicago sativa as the species identified as alfalfa after consideration of alfalfa morphological characteristics including roots, branches, leaves and fruit. It was recorded in “Dayuan Liezhuan” of the Shiji and “Xiyuzhuan”, Hanshu that alfalfa was introduced from Dayuan and Jiben during the Han dynasty. From the Han to the Tang and Song dynasties, alfalfa was widely planted in Northwest China. During the Ming dynasty, alfalfa was mostly planted in Sanjin, with smaller areas in Qin and Lu, followed by Yan and Zhao, but there is no record of alfalfa being planted in Jiangnan. Records of flower color provide reliable evidence ascertaining alfalfa was cultivated in ancient China. According to Han Er (Si Shi Zhuan Yao) it was regarded as particularly beneficial for horses during the Tang dynasty. The presence of purple flowers in alfalfa was also recorded in Jiu Huang Ben Cao by Zhu Su during the Ming dynasty, Qun Fang Pu by Wang Xiangjin during the Ming dynasty and in Zhi Wu Ming Shi Tu Kao by Wu Qijun during Qing dynasty. One author, Li Shizhen recorded that alfalfa had yellow flowers, in Ben Cao Gang Mu during the Ming dynasty. This was probably M. hispida or possibly M. falcata, which Wu Qijun recorded in Zhi Wu Ming Shi Tu Kao. It is informative to understand and utilize alfalfa today with knowledge of the utilization of alfalfa and its characteristics in ancient China.

Responses of Apoceynum venetum seed germination to drought and salt stress

LIU Ke-Biao, JIANG Sheng-Xiu

2016, 25(5):  214-222.  DOI: 10.11686/cyxb2015318

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In order to study the seed germination characteristics of Apoceynum venetum under different stresses of drought and sodium salt, germination was tested with four different osmotic potential and sodium salt solutions (NaCl, Na₂SO₄, NaHCO₃, compound sodium salt). The results showed that when seeds were treated with the PEG high osmotic potential (-0.05 MPa), low concentration of Na₂SO₄ (0.2%) and the compound salt solutions (0.2% to 0.6%), the germination rate, index and drought index were more than CK, the average germination times were less than CK and salt damage rate was a negative value. Germination peak was in 2-4 d. The solutions promoted seed germination according to decreasing osmotic potential and increasing salt concentration. The germination potential, rate, index, and drought index gradually reduced, average germination time extended and salt damage rate increased, with germination peak at 2-3 d. When treated with the NaCl and NaHCO₃ solutions, increasing concentrations caused the germination rate, potential and index to significantly decrease. The average germination time was delayed, germination peak was in 2-3 d, seed germination penetration and toxic effects were enhanced. When treated with the PEG and compound salt solutions, the appropriate value, critical value and limit value of osmotic potential and concentration was -0.09, -0.70, -1.30 MPa and 0.85%, 2.04%, 3.22% respectively. When treated with the same concentration of salt solution, the salt injury rate was NaHCO₃>NaCl>Na₂SO₄>compound salt.