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Background: Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is widely cultured in globally tropical and subtropical regions, with better resistance to various abiotic stresses as a model crop. Despite the fact that zinc finger-homeodomain (ZF-HD) genes play an important role in responding to plant growth, development and stress resistance across the multiple species, the evolutionary history and abiotic function of the ZF-HD gene family in sunflower remain largely unexplored. Results: In this study, we identified 15 HaZF-HD genes (designated as HaZF1–HaZF15) in the sunflower genome, and they were divided into MIF and ZHD subfamilies. The proteins from the same group were similar in conserved motifs and domains, such as motif 1 and motif 3, constituting the ZF domain, were almost existed in 15 HaZF-HD proteins. Motif 2 (HD domain) was specifically presented in the ZHD subfamily. Collinearity analysis revealed that 5 pairs of genes with fragment duplication contributed to the expansion of HaZF-HD gene family. The analysis of cis-acting element demonstrated that the response elements related the hormone response and abiotic/biotic stress were the most prevalent, followed by plant growth and development elements. In the tissue expression profile, HaZF-HD gene family had the highest expression in leaves and floral organs. Additionally, RNA-seq and RT-qPCR analysis revealed HaZF3 responded positively in the initial stage of drought stress, whereas a prompt and significant decrease of relative expression value in response to salt stress was showed in HaZF6 and HaZF9. Conclusions: Overall, this study enhances our comprehension of the function of ZF-HD genes in positive regulation of responsiveness to abiotic stress and provide key candidate genes for sunflower stress resistance breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effects of planting windows on grain yield and oil yield of three sunflower varieties (Hysun33, Record, and K/Fedha) across two locations in 2023. The two factors (varieties and planting windows) were laid out in a split plot arrangement and fitted into randomized complete block design in three replicates. The first planting window (PW1) occurred in late January, the second (PW2) in mid-February, and the third (PW3) in early March. Weather parameters evaluated included minimum and maximum temperatures, average monthly rainfall and rainfall during the growth period. The weather data revealed trends of decreasing minimum and maximum temperatures, as well as fluctuating average rainfall over the period. Total rainfall did not significantly differ between the three planting windows (PW1, PW2, PW3). However, there was significant variation in rainfall amounts at different phenological stages between planting windows (P = 0.001). Grain yield and oil yield were highest in PW3 (1.50 t/ha and 360.2 L, respectively), as well as for the Hysun33 variety (0.92 t/ha and 22.95 L, respectively). High grain and oil yields were influenced by high germination and survival percentages, high rainfall during leaf development and stem elongation, flowering time and interactions between planting window, variety, and locations. Study showed that PW3 and HYsun33 offers the most favorable options for optimal sunflower production in Kilwa District. However, multi-environment trials, repeated over several seasons is recommended to explore the influence of environmental variables. The results may also prompt a revision of the sunflower planting calendar for the southern zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), belonging to the Asteraceae family, is the world's fourth most important oil crop. Sunflower cultivars are categorized into oilseed and confectionery types. Here, we present chromosome-level genome assemblies of two Chinese sunflower cultivars-oilseed and confectionery-using PacBio HiFi and Hi-C sequencing. The oilseed cultivar, OXS, has a genome assembly spanning 3.03 Gb with 99.58% of sequences anchored to 17 chromosomes and a contig N50 length of 154.78 Mb. The first published confectionery cultivar genome, YDS, mirrors this closely with a 3.02 Gb assembly, contig N50 length of 153.87 Mb and 99.40% of sequences mapped similarly. Gene completeness reached 98.2% for OXS and 98.4% for YDS, with LTR Assembly Index scores of 24.73 and 25.85, respectively. Comparative genomics identified rapidly evolving gene families linked to synthesis, growth, and stress defense. Additionally, we found high collinearity between the YDS and OXS genomes, despite three significant inversions, and detected 15,056 large deletions and insertions. These findings lay a robust foundation for advanced genomic research and breeding innovations in sunflowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is specifically infected by an obligatory root parasitic plant Orobanche cumana Wallr. (sunflower broomrape), which causes significant losses of sunflower yield. Breeding of sunflower varieties resistant to broomrape is an important challenge for agriculture. However, the selection of new resistant sunflower varieties was accompanied by the emergence of new virulent races of broomrape, which overcame the effect of resistance genes. Unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying the resistance to broomrape in sunflowers should facilitate the development of new sunflower varieties with complex resistance to broomrape using genome editing technology. Here, we used CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing in sunflower hairy roots for a specific knock-out of the gene encoding a GRAS transcription factor (HaNSP1a), acting as a possible regulator of strigolactone biosynthesis, a class of phytohormones known to induce the germination of broomrape seeds. According to HPLC-IT-TOF/MS analysis, the levels of orobanchol were decreased in the genetically modified roots with knock-out of the HaNSP1a gene, whereas, in contrast, 5-deoxystrigol levels were increased in the roots with HaNSP1a knock-out, suggesting the role of HaNSP1a in the regulation of the strigolactone biosynthetic pathway. The experimental approach described here could be used in further studies to test the effect of gene knock-out on the development of resistance to O. cumana in sunflowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sunflower serves as a valuable rotational crop, suitable for snack processing or sunflower seed oil extraction, proving to be a lucrative cash crop. To address sunflower yield uncertainties, this study employs meta-analysis to examine the impact of fertilisation. Utilising 41 studies and 392 pairs of observations based on four criteria, we found an overall 27% increase in sunflower yield with fertiliser application. Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) individually applied raised yield by 23.37, 20.92, and 11.63%, respectively. Combined fertilisers (NP, NK, NP, and NPK) enhanced yield by 29.69, 28.40, 17.35, and 41.91%, respectively. Sunflower type minimally affects yield, while planting density significantly influences it. Combining local soil conditions and environmental factors with appropriate planting densities ensures maximum sunflower yield, fostering economic benefits for farmers. This study holds constructive implications for sunflower cultivation in China, contributing to increased yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture needs a reduced dependency on synthetic chemical fertilizers and renewable biomaterials to add nutrients to soil, ameliorating degraded soil and gaining agronomic yield of crops. Biochar mixed with inorganic fertilizer has been effective in improving the crop yield. However, the influence of composite biochar (C‐BC) obtained from poultry feathers (PFs), cow bones (CBs), and rice straw (RS) waste streams as sources of N, P, and K, respectively, is still unclear. This study aimed to unveil a tripartite relationship of biochar composite applications with soil properties and agronomic attributes of sunflower var. orisun. Biochars associated with nutrient acquisition were characterized through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive x‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy. To assess the bioavailability of nutrients and their impact on agronomic yield, a greenhouse trial was set up with sunflower, using each biochar individually as well as in composite application at three levels of amendments (0%, 2%, 4%, and 6% w/w) along with commercial fertilizer. The surface characterization through FTIR, SEM, and EDX of each biochar illustrated the presence of a wide range of functional groups, porosity, and multiple nutrients. C‐BC showed a significantly positive response to soil properties and exhibited the high availability of nutrients (N, P, and K) in soil as compared to commercial fertilizer. Application of C‐BC at 4% was found effective for dry biomass (47 g) and seed yield (35.16 g), resulted in oil and protein concentrations as high as 44.8% and 23.5%, respectively. Feather‐derived biochar (PF‐BC), bone char (CB‐BC), and RS‐derived biochar (RS‐BC) in the form of biochar composite can become an applicable substitute for chemical fertilizer in sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum as a necrotrophic fungus causes the devastating diseases in many important oilseed crops worldwide. The preferred strategy for controlling S. sclerotiorum is to develop resistant varieties, but the molecular mechanisms underlying S. sclerotiorum resistance remain poorly defined in sunflower (Helianthus annuus). Here, a comparative transcriptomic analysis was performed in leaves of two contrasting sunflower genotypes, disease susceptible (DS) B728 and disease resistant (DR) C6 after S. sclerotiorum inoculation. At 24 h post-inoculation, the DR genotype exhibited no visible growth of the hyphae as well as greater activity of superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDAR) than DS genotype. A total of 10151 and 7439 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected in DS and DR genotypes, respectively. Most of DEGs were enriched in cell wall organisation, protein kinase activity, hormone, transcription factor activities, redox homeostasis, immune response, and secondary metabolism. Differential expression of genes involved in expansins, pectate lyase activities, ethylene biosynthesis and signaling and antioxidant activity after S. sclerotiorum infection could potentially be responsible for the differential resistance among two genotypes. In summary, these finding provide additional insights into the potential molecular mechanisms of S. sclerotiorum's defense response and facilitate the breeding of Sclerotinia-resistant sunflower varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant genomes possess numerous transposable element (TE) insertions that have occurred during evolution. Most TEs are silenced or diverged; therefore, they lose their ability to encode proteins and are transposed in the genome. Knowledge of active plant TEs and TE-encoded proteins essential for transposition and evasion of plant cell transposon silencing mechanisms remains limited. This study investigated active long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons (RTEs) in sunflowers (Helianthus annuus), revealing heterogeneous and phylogenetically distinct RTEs triggered by epigenetic changes and heat stress. Many of these RTEs belong to three distinct groups within the Tekay clade, showing significant variations in chromosomal insertion distribution. Through protein analysis of these active RTEs, it was found that Athila RTEs and Tekay group 2 elements possess additional open reading frames (aORFs). The aORF-encoded proteins feature a transposase domain, a transmembrane domain, and nuclear localization signals. The aORF proteins of the Tekay subgroup exhibited remarkable conservation among over 500 Tekay members, suggesting their functional importance in RTE mobility. The predicted 3D structure of the sunflower Tekay aORF protein showed significant homology with Tekay proteins in rice, maize, and sorghum. Additionally, the structural features of aORF proteins resemble those of plant DRBM-containing proteins, suggesting their potential role in RNA-silencing modulation. These findings offer insights into the diversity and activity of sunflower RTEs, emphasizing the conservation and structural characteristics of aORF-encoded proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf senescence in plants is the last stage of leaf development and is characterized by a decline in photosynthetic activity, an active degeneration of cellular structures, and the recycling of accumulated nutrients to areas of active growth, such as buds, young leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds. This process holds economic significance as it can impact yield, influencing the plant's ability to maintain an active photosynthetic system during prolonged periods, especially during the grain filling stage, which affects plant weight and oil content. It can be associated with different stresses or environmental conditions, manifesting itself widely in the context of climate change and limiting yield, especially in crops of agronomic relevance. In this work, we study the stability of two widely described sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) genotypes belonging to the INTA Breeding Program against differential N conditions, to verify their yield stability in control conditions and under N supply. Two inbred lines were utilized, namely R453 (early senescence) and B481-6 (late senescence), with contrasting nitrogen availability in the soil but sharing the same ontogeny cycle length. It was observed that, starting from R5.5, the B481-6 genotype not only delayed senescence but also exhibited a positive response to increased nitrogen availability in the soil. This response included an increase in intercepted radiation, resulting in a statistically significant enhancement in grain yield. Conversely, the R453 genotype did not show significant differences under varying nitrogen availability and exhibited a tendency to decrease grain yield when nitrogen availability was increased. The response to nitrogen can vary depending on the specific genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is an important oilseed crop cultivated extensively across the globe. High salinity adversely impacts plant growth and physiological processes. In this study, the data on the phenotypes, physiological indices, and expression of relevant genes from different pathways responding to the stress were collected to clarify the physiological mechanisms underlying sunflower's salt tolerance with the seedlings of two salt-tolerant (182265 and 182283) and two salt-sensitive (182093 and 186096) genotypes, which were exposed to 350 mM NaCl for 5 days. The findings revealed that, during the seedling stage, salt-tolerant sunflowers accumulated less Na+ and more K+, resulting in a higher K+/Na+ ratio that mitigated ionic toxicity throughout the plants, compared to the salt-sensitive resources. Furthermore, the salt-tolerant germplasms also exerted salt tolerance through the following several pathways: they maintained robust osmotic regulation by accumulating higher levels of proline, soluble sugars, and other osmolytes; they neutralized reactive oxygen species (ROS) by elevating the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as POD, SOD, CAT, APX, and GR; and they sustained optimal growth by boosting photosynthesis. Taken together, this study provided a more comprehensive assessment of the sunflower's physiological salt tolerance, providing insights that will inform further molecular studies on salt tolerance and accelerating the breeding process for sunflower varieties with improved salt resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon (Si) has been extensively studied for its ability to decrease sodium (NaCl) toxicity in various plant species. Nonetheless, the processes that drive these responses are still not well understood. In this study, we investigate the effects of silicon (Si) on the modification of hydrogen peroxide concentration [H2O2], photosynthetic pigment content, nutrient accumulation, and the production of root and shoot dry biomass in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) plants hydroponically grown with NaCl (0 and 100 mM) in combination with Si (0 and 2.0 mM). Salt stress induced a significant decrease in plant growth due to high [H2O2] and a decrease in photosynthetic pigment content and nutritional status, denoting that there is oxidative and ionic stress. Nevertheless, Si addition to the growth medium consistently decreased the [H2O2] in sunflower and photosynthetic pigment content, and macro- and micronutrient accumulation, which was associated with an increase in root and shoot dry matter production. These findings indicate that adding Si to the growth medium is crucial for enhancing plant resistance to salt-induced ionic and osmotic stress, making it a promising strategy for improving crop growth and management under salinity conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) play a vital role as a global oilseed crop, but biotic and abiotic factors threaten their yield, especially in the context of climate change. One significant challenge is charcoal rot, a disease prevalent in tropical and subtropical climates. This disease causes stem lesions, leading to wilting and premature lodging, resulting in severe yield losses, ranging from 20% to 50%. Combating this issue led to introducing disease-resistant genes as a primary strategy. This study investigates the outcomes of incorporating charcoal-resistant lines into a breeding program. Four resistant inbred lines--'B-208', 'B-124', 'B-224', and 'B-112'--reached crossing with male fertility restorer lines, creating 16 half-sib cross combinations. These crosses showed varied levels of resistance to charcoal rot. Notably, the combinations 'C.112' × 'RSIN.82' and 'C.208' × 'RH.344' exhibited minor infestations and displayed negative heterosis, indicating a tendency toward complete to overdominance in resistance traits. The estimates of heterosis were modest, with a significant dominance variance relative to additive variance for disease resistance. Lines 'B-112', 'B-208', and 'RSIN.82' demonstrated strong general combining ability effects, suggesting their potential usefulness in breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimation of genetic diversity is vital in sunflower breeding. Principal component analysis (PCA) is one of the best statistical approaches to study diversity among genotypes by using eigenvalue and PC-1/PC-2 based-biplots. An experiment commenced at the College of Agriculture, University of Sargodha, Pakistan to find out the diversity in 28 sunflower hybrids and select stable hybrids for normal and terminal heat-stress conditions. Growing sunflower hybrids in randomized complete block design had three replications. Under normal condition, sunflower hybrid sowing ensued in February 2019, while to check the effect of terminal stress, growing these hybrids transpired at the end of March 2019. The collected data of seven morpho-phenological traits underwent the principal component analysis, found greater than one for the first three and four PCs under normal conditions. In terminal stress environments, these respectively exposed the presence of ample genetic variation among sunflower hybrids in both environments. Bi-plot analysis signified that SF-18100, SF-18045, and SF-19025 were stable hybrids for most studied traits under normal sowing environment. Meanwhile, the performance of SF-18035 and SF-19010 proved better under the heat-stress environment for studied traits. Hence, these hybrids showed better adaptability under the current scenario of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lesion nematode Pratylenchus brachyurus is a major pest of soybean in Brazil, managed by treating seed with nematicides and replacing corn for pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) and rattlepods (Crotalaria spp.) as a second crop. However, these cover crops are not profitable, leading growers to consider alternatives as cowpea, sunflower, and sorghum. In fact, although cowpea and sorghum are susceptible to P. brachyurus, cowpea is widely cultivated in the Brazilian Cerrado, where P. brachyurus is prevalent, and the forage sorghum 'BRS Ponta Negra' has been recommended for P. brachyurus management, based on field observations. Considering the increasing importance of cowpea in the Brazilian Cerrado, three pot trials were carried out to evaluate the host status of modern cowpea cultivars for P. brachyurus. Additionally, two pot trials were carried out to evaluate the effect of cowpea, sunflower, forage sorghum 'BRS Ponta Negra', pearl millet and showy rattlepod on soybean production in soil with P. brachyurus, taking account the scarcity of studies that prove the benefits of replacing corn for resistant crops on soybean grain production. The five cowpea cultivars tested were highly suitable hosts for P. brachyurus, supporting previous findings. Therefore, cowpea should be avoided in infested growing areas, especially as a second crop after soybean. Among the cover crops, only showy rattlepod consistently decreased P. brachyurus population density and increased soybean grain production, proving to be more effective than pearl millet in managing P. brachyurus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water is essential for life, ecosystems, and economic growth. Water availability and quality are essential for health, agriculture, industry, making water management essential to sustainable development. Industrial waste such toxic chemicals, dyes and heavy metals pollutes water supplies today. Arsenic (As) and Cadmium (Cd) will be removed from water using plant-derived iron NPs in this experiment. NPs were synthesised from Ocimum tenuiflorum, Margosa, and Helianthus annuus. The percentage of arsenic and cadmium biosorption determined this method's efficacy. To maximise heavy metal biosorption (%) from aqueous solutions, the Taguchi L16 orthogonal array (4 factors at 4 levels) was used to statistically optimise process parameters like Plant NP quantity, pH values, exposure time, and initial arsenic and cadmium concentrations. Maximum As and Cd biosorption (%) was 99.92% and 98.95% under optimum circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reliable detection of sunflower (Helianthus annuus) in edible and used cooking oil (UCO) is crucial for the sustainable production of food and biodiesel. In this study, a variety of sunflower oils (crude, cold pressed, extra virgin, refined, and UCO) were examined using different methods of DNA extraction and PCR amplification to develop an efficient technology for the identification of sunflower in oils. DNA extraction kits such as NucleoSpin Food, DNeasy mericon Food, and Olive Oil DNA Isolation as well as modified CTAB method were found to be able to isolate amplifiable genomic DNA from highly processed oils. Novel uniplex, double, and nested PCR systems targeting the sunflower-specific helianthinin gene were developed for efficient identification of sunflower. New sunflower DNA markers were revealed by uniplex PCRs. The combination of modified CTAB and nested PCR was demonstrated as a reliable, rapid, and cost-effective technology for detecting traces of sunflower in 700 μL of highly processed oil, including refined and used cooking oil. The study will contribute to both the food industry and the energy sector as developed methods can be used for oil authenticity testing in food and biodiesel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obnoxious weeds have always been troublesome for agricultural crop plants. Their phytotoxic nature negatively alters germination, growth and productivity of neighboring plants. Cynodon dactylon L. is a very common and rapidly multiplying weed of northern Indian plains. Present study aimed to understand the degree of its phytotoxicity and its allelopathic impact on seed germination and seedling growth of commercially important sunflower crop plants. As we know that healthy seedlings ensure healthy yields so it is necessary to understand the possible threats to seedling growth. Experiments were carried out with the leachates of two different plant parts of Cynodon dactylon L. (donor plant) viz. rhizome and leaf on germination and seedling growth of sunflower (recipient plant). Results showed the negative correlation of seed germination and seedling growth with both rhizome and leaf leachate. However, more severe growth inhibition was recorded when seeds were treated with a higher concentration of rhizome leachate. Photosynthetic pigments and protein content were also decreased significantly under leachate treatment. However, carotenoids were increased under allelopathic stress. Increased SOD and CAT activity in sunflower seedlings under treatment with a higher leachate concentration indicated the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to the impact of oxidative damage caused by donor plant. Present study highlights the need of control of weed prior to sowing of crop seeds and also provides an alternative to utilize harmful weeds into useful bioherbicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Different floral traits mediate interactions between plants and their visitors. Capitates Glandular Trichomes (CGT) can attract or repel visitors, particularly arthropods. In Helianthus annuus L., CGTs are located at the distal ends of the anther appendages. This study aimed to determine whether the presence of CGTs influences the behaviour of diurnal floral visitors under field conditions by comparing genotypes with high and low CGT density per anther, while maintaining similar phenotypic characteristics. The analysis accounted for three random variables -floral developmental stages (R5.3, R5.6, and R6), daytime ranges (morning, midday, and afternoon), and two flowering seasons- to better understand variations in CGT mediated floral arthropod interactions. Key recorded species included Astylus atromaculatus (Blanchard) (Coleoptera Melyridae), Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera Apidae), and species from the Thomisidae family representing herbivores, pollinators, and insect-predators, respectively. The genotype with a high CGT density received fewer herbivore visits and more pollinator visits compared with the genotype with a low CGT density. Predators did not exhibit genotype-related differences but reduced bee presence by 20% probably due to Thomisidae spiders preying on bees. Furthermore, the inclusion of random variables enhanced the models. Herbivore abundance varied significantly between flowering seasons, while pollinator abundance fluctuated across the daytime ranges. Both herbivores and pollinators also showed variations in abundance across the reproductive stages, likely influenced by the proportion of disc floret phenophases and the CGTs' secretory stage. This study underscores the importance of CGTs as a key morphological feature with potential implications for plant reproduction, justifying broader, more extensive investigations. It also emphasizes the necessity of considering multiple factors in plantarthropod interactions research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), a key molecule in plant biology, plays an essential role in stress response and growth regulation. Despite its importance, the SAM synthetase (SAMS) gene family in sunflowers (Helianthus annuus L.) remains poorly understood. Methods: In this study, the SAMS genes were identified from the sunflower genome. Subsequently, the protein properties, gene structure, chromosomal location, cis-acting elements, collinearity, and phylogeny of the SAMS gene family were analyzed by bioinformatic methods. Finally, the expression patterns of SAMS genes in different tissues, under different hormonal treatment and abiotic stress were analyzed based on transcriptome data and qRT-PCR. Results: This study identified 58 SAMS genes across nine cultivated sunflower species, which were phylogenetically classified into seven distinct subgroups. Physicochemical properties and gene structure analysis showed that the SAMS genes are tightly conserved between cultivars. Collinearity analysis revealed segmental duplications as the primary driver of gene family expansion. The codon usage bias analysis suggested that natural selection substantially shapes the codon usage patterns of sunflower SAMS genes, with a bias for G/C-ending high-frequency codons, particularly encoding glycine, leucine, and arginine. Analysis of the cis-regulatory elements in promoter regions, implied their potential roles in stress responsiveness. Differential expression patterns for HanSAMS genes were observed in different tissues as well as under hormone treatment or abiotic stress conditions by analyzing RNA-seq data from previous studies and qRT-PCR data in our current study. The majority of genes demonstrated a robust response to BRA and IAA treatments in leaf tissues, with no significant expression change observed in roots, suggesting the response of HanSAMS genes to hormones is tissue-specific. Expression analyses under abiotic stresses demonstrated diverse expression profiles of HanSAMS genes, with HanSAMS5 showing significant upregulation in response to both drought and salt stresses. Discussion: This comprehensive genomic and expression analysis provides valuable insights into the SAMS gene family in sunflowers, laying a robust foundation for future functional studies and applications in crop improvement for stress resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Mature inflorescences of sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) orient constantly on average to the geographical east. According to one of the explanations of this phenomenon, the eastward orientation of sunflower inflorescences increases the number of attracted insect pollinators. We tested this hypothesis in three field experiments performed in flowering sunflower plantations. In experiments 1 and 2 we measured the number of insects trapped by the vertical walls of sticky sunflower models facing north, east, south, and west. In experiment 3 we counted the pollinators' landings on real sunflower inflorescences facing naturally east or turned artificially toward north, south, and west. We found that the all‐day number of pollinators (predominantly bees) attracted to model and real sunflowers in H. annuus plantations is independent of the azimuth direction of sunflower heads, and after 10 h in the morning, the average number of pollinators counted every 20 min is practically constant in the rest of the day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A better understanding of the genetic and ecological factors underlying successful invasions is critical to mitigate the negative impacts of invasive species. Here, we study the invasion history of Helianthus annuus populations from Argentina, with particular emphasis on the role of post‐introduction admixture with cultivated sunflower (also H. annuus) and climate adaptation driven by large haploblocks. We conducted genotyping‐by‐sequencing of samples of wild populations as well as Argentinian cultivars and compared them with wild (including related annual Helianthus species) and cultivated samples from the native range. We also characterised samples for 11 known haploblocks associated with environmental variation in native populations to test whether haploblocks contributed to invasion success. Population genomics analyses supported two independent geographic sources for Argentinian populations, the central United States and Texas, but no significant contribution of related annual Helianthus species. We found pervasive admixture with cultivated sunflower, likely as result of post‐introduction hybridization. Genomic scans between invasive populations and their native sources identified multiple genomic regions of divergence, possibly indicative of selection, in the invaded range. These regions significantly overlapped between the two native‐invasive comparisons and showed disproportionally high crop ancestry, suggesting that crop alleles contributed to invasion success. We did not find evidence of climate adaptation mediated by haploblocks, yet outliers of genome scans were enriched in haploblock regions and, for at least two haploblocks, the cultivar haplotype was favoured in Argentina. Our results show that admixture with cultivated sunflower played a major role in the establishment and spread of H. annuus populations in Argentina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ambrosia artemisiifolia is a well-known invasive species in Europe, causing health issues with its extremely allergenic pollen and yield loss through competition in agriculture. One potential biological control agent is Ophraella communa, accidentally introduced in Europe in 2013. This species was discovered in France in 2023, but before planning further mass releases for biological control, it is necessary to assess its safety for agricultural crops and local plant biodiversity. Prior to its first detection in France, we conducted a host-range study of the beetle in a confined laboratory with no-choice and choice tests for 16 plant species, selected based on the centrifugal phylogenetic method. Results showed a restricted host range to the Heliantheae tribe and minimal risk to indigenous European plant species, with no larval survival and barely any eggs laid on these plants. Choice tests also showed a strong preference of O. communa for A. artemisiifolia. Our results combined with previous studies and observations in the field in other countries suggest a low risk to sunflower, Helianthus annuus, which is an important crop in France. This confirms that O. communa could be a low-risk biological control agent that can be used in classical biological control programs against A. artemisiifolia in France. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change effects, including temperature extremes and water stress, cause abiotic stress in plants. These changes directly affect flowering and the flower reward system for pollinators, influencing plant–pollinator interactions and ultimately seed production in flowering plants. Here, we tested the effects of water deprivation on the behavior of various pollinator species, plant–pollinator interactions, and the seed yield of sunflower, Helianthus annuus L. (Asteraceae). Sunflower was sown during four different months (January–April) and subjected to two different water availability levels (well-watered and water-deprived). Pollinator abundance was recorded five times a day (8:00 am, 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm) from flower heads and the florets. In addition, foraging behavior was also recorded. We found that lowest abundance, visit duration, and visitation rate occurred in April-sown sunflower. The European honey bee Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) was the most abundant visitor to sunflower, the hover fly Eristalinus aeneus (Diptera: Syrphidae) exhibited the longest visit duration, while Xylocopa sp. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) exhibited the highest visitation rate. The visitation rate of bees was significantly affected by water stress, with more bee visits occurring under well-watered conditions. Additionally, plant parameters, including flower head diameter, head weight, seed number, and seed weight, were significantly lower in the water-deprived treatments in April-sown sunflower. Open flowers without the pollination exclusion cages showed a higher yield, indicating the pollination dependence of sunflower. In conclusion, the plant modifications induced by sowing months and water-deprived conditions may alter pollinator behavior and may ultimately affect sunflower yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diaporthe (anamorph: Phomopsis) species are endophytes or fungal pathogens for many different plant species. Soybean (Glycine max) can be infected by many different Diaporthe species; among them, D. caulivora and D. longicolla are responsible for the most significant damages. Diaporthe goulteri is a species that was only recently described and has so far been found on sunflower (Helianthus annuus) in Australia and an unknown host in Thailand. Here, we report isolation of D. goulteri from soybean in southern Germany, molecular species identification, and additional morphological description. We also show that D. goulteri can infect soybean and describe the symptoms we observed, both on the plant where the isolate came from and following artificial inoculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was established to investigate the ability of the sunflower callus plant (Helianthus annuus L.) to tolerate salinity stress for two levels of NaCl (0 and 80 mM), three concentrations of IAA (0, 1.0, and 2.0 mg l-1 ), and BAP (0, 1.0, and 2.0 mg l-1 ) in lab conditions. Calli cultures were induced from the cotyledon of H. annuus L. cultured in an appropriate combination of growth regulators 2,4-D and kintein. The salinity results exhibited negative effects in most of the study indications, which can be revealed by a significant increase in sodium content (Na+ ), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehde content (MDA). While, the decrease in the study indications such as fresh weight (FW), dry weights (DW), relative water content (RWC), potassium content (K+ ), sodium/ potassium ratio (Na+ /K+ ), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) enzymes activity. The experiment revealed a positive effect for the exogenous growth regulators IAA and BAP in reducing the harmful effects of salinity stress on calli cultures. The nominated regulators succeeded in reducing the harmful effects of salinity stress, where the FW, DW, RFW, browning density (BI), RWC, K+, Na+ /K+, SOD, and CAT enzymes activity. However, the exogenous growth regulators reduced the negative effect for each of Na+, H2O2, and MDA under the salinity stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: The use of hybrid breeding systems to increase crop yields has been the cornerstone of modern agriculture and is exemplified in the breeding and improvement of cultivated sunflower (Helianthus annuus). However, it is poorly understood what effect supporting separate breeding pools in such systems, combined with continued selection for yield, may have on leaf ecophysiology and specialized metabolite variation. Methods: We analyzed 288 lines of cultivated H. annuus to examine the genomic basis of several specialized metabolites and agronomically important traits across major heterotic groups. Results: Heterotic group identity supports phenotypic divergences between fertility restoring and cytoplasmic male‐sterility maintainer lines in leaf ecophysiology and specialized metabolism. However, the divergence is not associated with physical linkage to nuclear genes that support current hybrid breeding practices in cultivated H. annuus. Additionally, we identified four genomic regions associated with leaf ecophysiology and specialized metabolism that colocalize with previously identified QTLs for quantitative self‐compatibility traits and with S‐protein homolog (SPH) proteins, a recently discovered family of proteins associated with self‐incompatibility and self/nonself recognition in Papaver rhoeas (common poppy) with suggested conserved downstream mechanisms among eudicots. Conclusions: Further work is necessary to confirm the self‐incompatibility mechanisms in cultivated H. annuus and their relationship to the integrative and polygenic architecture of leaf ecophysiology and specialized metabolism in cultivated sunflower. However, because self‐compatibility is a derived quantitative trait in cultivated H. annuus, trait linkage to divergent phenotypic traits may have partially arisen as a potential unintended consequence of historical breeding practices and selection for yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thrips, Frankliniella intonsa, is a highly polyphagous pest with a worldwide distribution. F. intonsa‐infested sunflower seeds show marked visual damage. The study findings revealed that significantly more F. intonsa infested confection sunflower compared to oilseed sunflower, via olfactometer bioassay studies, we found that compared with the flower and pollen of oilseed sunflowers, those of confection sunflowers attract F. intonsa. Considering this discrepancy in the preference of F. intonsa on oilseed and confection sunflowers, the volatiles of the flower and pollens of two sunflowers were analysed by gas chromatography‐mass spectroscopy. The behavioural responses of F. intonsa were assessed for these compounds using Y‐tube bioassays. Geranyl bromide, a unique volatile component of oilseed sunflowers, induced an assertive approach‐avoidance behaviour in F. intonsa, whereas the unique component ethyl isovalerate in confection sunflowers attracted F. intonsa. F. intonsa adults demonstrated significant attraction to the blends of confection sunflowers. Furthermore, field verification revealed that intercropping confection and oilseed sunflowers could effectively control F. intonsa. The study provided insights into the chemical cues used by F. intonsa in locating hosts. Therefore, oilseed sunflowers can be used as repellent plants to prevent F. intonsa invasion. Summary Statement: The damage to sunflower seeds is caused by Frankliniella intonsa. A previous study found that the seed damage rate of oilseed sunflower varieties was lower than that of confection sunflower varieties. Understanding the underlying reason behind this distinction can help us understand the behaviour of F. intonsa, thereby aiding their control. Our research shows that the attraction of sunflower volatiles to F. intonsa is the root cause of the difference in F. intonsa population. Geranyl bromide, a unique volatile component of oilseed sunflowers, induces an assertive approach‐avoidance behaviour in F. intonsa, whereas the unique component ethyl isovalerate in confection sunflowers attracts F. intonsa. F. intonsa adults demonstrated significant attraction to the blends of confection sunflowers. Furthermore, field verification revealed that intercropping confection and oilseed sunflowers could effectively control F. intonsa. The study provided insights into the chemical cues used by F. intonsa in locating hosts. Therefore, oilseed sunflowers can be used as repellent plants to prevent F. intonsa invasion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Helianthus annuus L. is a significant oilseed plant with economic importance. • Secondary metabolites in plants have high potential to produce new drugs and bioactive compounds. • Compounds with anticancer properties such as taxadiene-5α-hydroxylase, parthenolide synthase, vinorine synthase etc. have been identified in H. annuus. • There are gene clusters categorized as polyketide, saccharide, saccharide-terpene, alkaloid, putative, and terpene types in H. annuus. Plant secondary metabolite gene clusters are regions within the plant genome that encode enzymes and proteins involved in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. Helianthus annuus L. is a significant oilseed plant with economic importance. This study aims to comprehensively identify secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters within H. annuus using bioinformatics tools, shedding light on the functions of the enzymes involved. In this study, the plantiSMASH software was utilized to predict secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters in H. annuus. The results from plantiSMASH were analyzed to identify the biosynthetic gene clusters for secondary metabolites on each chromosome. The biological and molecular functions of the enzymes within these clusters were predicted using data from the relevant articles. According to the obtained data, H. annuus lacks a biosynthetic gene cluster on chromosomes four, seven, and fifteen. The identified gene clusters in this plant are polyketide, saccharide, saccharide-terpene, alkaloid, putative, and terpene. The enzyme categories found in secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters include Methyltransferase, Ketosynthase, Glycosyltransferase, BAHD acyltransferase, Dioxygenase, CoA-ligase, Epimerase, PRISE enzymes, Prenyltransferase, Oxidoreductase, Aminotransferase, Copper amine oxidase, Cytochrome P450, Terpene synthase, and Pictet-Spengler enzyme (Bet v1). This comprehensive analysis provides a foundation for further investigations into the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in H. annuus , offering valuable insights for researchers exploring the medicinal and pharmaceutical potential of this plant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of different rates and combinations of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and silicon fertilizers in Alluvial-meadow soil and their impact on the export of basic macronutrients with sunflower biomass in a pot experiment. The test culture was an early to medium-early hybrid Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) - Sumiko HTS. The experiment includes 16 variants of fertilization with 3 replications. Data are obtained on the yield of fresh and absolutely dry biomass from the above-ground part and the content of N, P, K, Si, Ca, and Mg in the resulting dry biomass from plants. According to the experimental data obtained, the content and uptake of the examined macroelements with the sunflower biomass are significantly influenced by the imported rates and combinations of fertilizers. The highest is the uptake of nitrogen in the variants with the following norms: N200, N300, and N400. N uptake is the highest also in comparison with all other examined elements. It is established that the changes in the macroelements uptake significantly follow changes in the quantities of the relevant elements in dry biomass in the variants of the experiment. With an increase in fertilization rates, not only the content of N, P, and Si is increased, but also the uptakes with sunflower biomass. This trend with potassium is expressed to a lesser extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Associations with soil microorganisms are crucial for plants’ overall health and functioning. While much work has been done to understand drivers of rhizosphere microbiome structure and function, the relative importance of geography, climate, soil properties, and plant genetics remains unclear, as results have been mixed and comprehensive studies across many sites and genotypes are limited. Rhizosphere microbiomes are crucial for crop resistance to pathogens, stress tolerance, nutrient availability, and ultimately yield. Here, we quantify the relative roles of plant genotype, environment, and their interaction in shaping soil rhizosphere communities, using 16S and ITS gene sequencing of rhizosphere soils from 10 genotypes of cultivated sunflower (Helianthus annuus) at 15 sites across the Great Plains of the United States. While site generally outweighed genotype overall in terms of effects on archaeal, bacterial, and fungal richness, community composition, and taxa relative abundances, there was also a significant interaction such that genotype exerted a significant influence on archaeal, bacterial, and fungal microbiomes in certain sites. Site effects were attributed to a combination of spatial distance and differences in climate and soil properties. Microbial taxa that were previously associated with resistance to the fungal necrotrophic pathogen Sclerotinia were present in most sites but differed significantly in relative abundance across sites. Our results have implications for plant breeding and agronomic microbiome manipulations for agricultural improvement across different geographic regions. IMPORTANCE Despite the importance of plant breeding in agriculture, we still have a limited understanding of how plant genetic variation shapes soil microbiome composition across broad geographic regions. Using 15 sites across the Great Plains of North America, we show that cultivated sunflower rhizosphere archaeal, bacterial, and fungal communities are driven primarily by site soil and climatic differences, but genotype can interact with site to influence the composition, especially in warmer and drier sites with lower overall microbial richness. We also show that all taxa that were previously found to be associated with resistance to the fungal pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum were widespread but significantly affected by site, while a subset was also significantly affected by genotype. Our results contribute to a broader understanding of rhizosphere archaeal, bacterial, and fungal community assembly and provide foundational knowledge for plant breeding efforts and potential future microbiome manipulations in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) capacity to synthesize and accumulate soluble carbohydrates that will ultimately contribute to grain filling, either via actual photosynthesis or previously stored reserves, has been largely neglected despite its relevance regarding crop yield. The present work is aimed at studying the effect of photoassimilate availability on the dynamics of production and distribution of soluble carbohydrates in the plant during vegetative and reproductive phases. Plant photoassimilate availability was modified from production crop level in two hybrids during two field experiments by shading or thinning plants, which resulted in a range of intercepted radiation between 20 and 300 MJ per plant and also by removal of the main sink, the capitulum. Plants under higher light availability developed larger leaves and accumulated much more biomass than shaded ones. In general, plant sugar storage increased up to flowering and was highest in the developing capitulum and upper stem internodes. Increasing light availability led to a strong growth promotion that was especially remarkable in the capitulum and stem upper internodes, which precluded an increase in sugar concentration in these parts. Capitulum removal led to sugar remobilization to the plant base, resulting in a strong growth promotion of roots, basal stem internodes, and even in leaves from the lower strata, showing an extremely high plasticity of all sunflower organs in response to photoassimilates. These results also suggest that sugars per se may drive plastic changes of organ size ultimately conditioning plant capacity to store sugars and crop yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edible flowers have been used since ancient times, but their potential for improving human health has not been explored. This study aimed to evaluate the profile of bioactive compounds (organic acids, phenolics, and carotenoids) and the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of nine flower varieties with high concentrations of carotenoids or total phenolic compounds. Ninety-three edible flowers were analysed for physicochemical characteristics, total phenolic and carotenoid concentrations, and antioxidant activity (ABTS). Bioactive profiles were determined by rapid resolution liquid chromatography (RRLC), and antimicrobial activity was determined against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. Chrysanthemum x hybrid orange, Helianthus annuus yellow, Tagetes patula orange, Canna indica red, and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (orange1 and yellow) showed significant concentrations of total carotenoids. In contrast, Pelargonium hortorum orange2, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis red1, and Rosa x hybrid variety medium yellow showed high levels of total phenolics. The predominant compounds in these species were citric acid (991.4 mg/g DW in Hibiscus rosa-sinensis red1), 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (936.2 mg/100 g DW in P. hortorum orange2), kaempferol (971. 9 mg/100 g DW in T. patula orange), quercetin glucoside (958.8 in C. x hybrid), quercetin (919.3 mg/100 g DW in T. patula), α-carotene, and β-carotene in T. patula orange (989.5 and 601.2 mg/100 g DW, respectively). Regarding antimicrobial activity, T. patula orange and P. hortorum orange2 inhibited bacterial growth, while C. x hybrid orange and P. hortorum orange2 inhibited Candida albicans, and the latter inhibited Candida tropicalis. These results indicate the potential of edible flowers as a natural source of bioactive compounds and as a tool in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is a widely cultivated crop that exhibits a trait known as capitulum (or head) inclination at maturity. This trait is influenced by various structural factors, including head weight, stem traits, and plant height. A sunflower head should be at an angle at which the head faces the ground to avoid damage from the sun and birds. While this desired inclination range is known, current methods, including visual estimation and a model of measuring inclined length of the stem, fail to provide precise measurements of angle. This study introduces novel approaches to mathematically measure the head inclination angle. The research, which was conducted over the 2022 and 2023 growing seasons, involved an aluminum rod equipped with a ruler and a digital protractor to measure various height and angle components. Using the data collected, three methods were applied for measuring inclination: a previously published model as a control, a trigonometry‐based approach using angle and height measurements, and other model‐based approaches. A linear model resulted in a formula to calculate the head angle of any plant based solely on two height measurements, the highest point of the plant at both bloom (R5) and maturity (R9). Calculations of heritability and correlation suggest this method has created a precise alternative to existing estimation methods. The resulting formula has the potential to be paired with measurements from high‐throughput phenotyping methods, such as those facilitated with drones and ground robots, to fully automate the process of collecting head inclination data. Core Ideas: Sunflower head inclination angle can be estimated using the height of plants at two distinct growth stages.Heritability and correlation suggest an improvement over existing estimation methods.The height measurements required are expected to become automated with high‐throughput phenotyping methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In modern agriculture, nano-priming represents an innovative approach, harnessing the power of nanotechnology to enhance crop yields and nutrition. However, to effectively harness the potential of nanoparticles (NPs) for agriculture applications, understanding their mode of action and optimal application rates for positive effects on microgreen growth and physiology is critical. In this interdisciplinary study, we investigated the priming of sunflower seeds with a range of concentrations (25, 50, and 100 mg/L) of ferric oxide (Fe2O3) nanoparticles (FeNPs) and compared them with control samples. Our findings revealed a significant increase in plant biomass, leaf size, and photosynthetic activity in treated samples. The activities of photosystems I and II increased with higher FeNPs concentration. The treated samples exhibited elevated levels of total phenolics, anthocyanin, and antioxidant enzyme activity, along with increased macronutrients and micronutrients. These findings highlight the potential of FeNPs as a promising tool for enhancing plant growth and physiology in sunflower microgreens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research on actinobacteria isolated from traditional medicinal plants is limited. Here, four new Streptomyces isolates (Ha1, Pp1, UzK and UzM) were obtained from the rhizospheres of Helianthus annuus, Pongamia pinnata and Ziziphus mauritiana, frequently utilized in Indian traditional medicine. The Streptomyces isolates aqueous extracts were studied alone against the growth of the Cryptococcus neoformans H99 reference strain, the fluconazole-tolerant T1-5796 and 89–610 strains, three histone deacetylase (HDAC) genes mutant strains, C. gattii NIH198, Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis to determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Next, the extracts were employed in combination with aluminium-phthalocyanine chloride nanoemulsion-mediated photodynamic therapy to evaluate a possible interaction. We demonstrated that the C. neoformans T1-5796 fluconazole-tolerant strain was more severely inhibited by the Pp1 isolate extract (MIC: 6 mg mL−1) than H99, which was not inhibited. Growth inhibition of the HDAC null mutants was more prominent for the extract of the UzM isolate, showing inhibition at 2 mg mL−1. The UzM extract was also the most effective in hindering the Candida species proliferation, with MIC values ranging from 10 to 40 mg mL−1. The four Streptomyces extracts, especially UzK and UzM, significantly enhanced the antifungal effect of the photodynamic therapy. Our results indicate these Streptomyces isolates as sources of novel metabolites which could potentiate the effect of photodynamic therapy in controlling yeasts superficial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Broiler chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus L.) production in Mexico is fundamental for contributing to food security since it is inexpensive and has a high nutritional value. However, given the insufficient national production of ingredients such as soybeans to obtain oil and make balanced foods, it has been necessary to import them, thus increasing the cost of raising broilers. In this context, sunflower seed (Helianthus annuus L.), due to its nutritional makeup, can be used to replace soybean meal and soybean oil in broiler diets. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of partially replacing soybean meal and soybean oil in broilers' diets with dehulled sunflower seeds on the physicochemical properties, fatty acid profile, and antioxidant capacity of meat. The experimental design was completely randomized: basal diet (sorghum-soybean meal); diet with 5 % sunflower seed and soybean oil; diet with 5 % sunflower seeds without soybean oil; and diet with 10 % sunflower seeds without soybean oil. There was no effect of the diet on the physicochemical characteristics (p > 0.05), but there was an effect on the fatty acid profile, which was better (p ≤ 0.001) in the treatments with sunflower seed, with or without soybean oil. The antioxidant activity in raw and cooked meat decreased after 9 and 6 days of refrigerated storage (p ≤ 0.05), respectively, without diet effect. Therefore, soybean meal can be substituted at 10 %, and soybean oil can be partially or completely replaced by dehulled sunflower seed in broiler diets as long as production parameters are not negatively affected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In saline conditions, establishing healthy seedlings is crucial for the productivity of sunflowers (Helianthus annuus L.). Excessive potassium (K+) from irrigation water or overfertilization, similar to sodium (Na+), could adversely affect sunflower growth. However, the effects of salt stress caused by varying K/Na ratios on the establishment of sunflower seedlings have not been widely studied. We conducted a pot experiment in a greenhouse, altering the K/Na ratio of a soil solution to grow sunflower seedlings. We tested three saline solutions with K/Na ratios of 0:1 (P0S1), 1:1 (P1S1), and 1:0 (P1S0) at a constant concentration of 4 dS m−1, along with a control (CK, no salt added), with five replicates. The solutions were applied to the pots via capillary rise through small holes at the bottom. The results indicate that different K/Na ratios significantly influenced ion-selective uptake and transport in crop organs. With an increasing K/Na ratio, the K+ concentration in the roots, stems, and leaves increased, while the Na+ concentration decreased in the roots and stems, with no significant differences in the leaves. Furthermore, an excessive K/Na ratio (P1S0) suppressed the absorption and transportation of Mg2+, significantly reducing the Mg2+ concentration in the stems and leaves. A lower leaf Mg2+ concentration reduced chlorophyll concentration, impairing photosynthetic performance. The lowest plant height, leaf area, dry matter, and shoot/root ratio were observed in P1S0, with reductions of 27%, 48%, 48%, and 13% compared to CK, respectively. Compared with CK, light use efficiency and CO2 use efficiency in P1S0 were significantly reduced by 13% and 10%, respectively, while water use efficiency was significantly increased by 9%. Additionally, improved crop morphological and photosynthetic performance was observed in P1S1 and P0S1 compared with P1S0. These findings underscore the critical role of optimizing ion composition in soil solutions, especially during the sensitive seedling stage, to enhance photosynthesis and ultimately to improve the plant's establishment. We recommend that agricultural practices in saline regions incorporate tailored irrigation and fertilization strategies that prioritize optimal K/Na ratios to maximize crop performance and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exogenous application of oxalic acid is a potential approach to amplifying phytoremediation performance on Cd-contaminated soils. However, few studies explore the optimal oxalic acid application regime from a perspective of coupling different concentrations and timings to maximize Cd removal rate. Given this, a pot experiment was conducted using oil sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) as the test plant. Oxalic acid was added to the pots at concentrations of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 mmol/kg at 20, 30, 40, and 50 days after emergence. A control (CK) without exogenous oxalic acid was also included. We examined the discrepancies in various soil Cd forms, sunflower height, plant non-protein thiol (NPT) levels, and soil Cd remediation efficiency under different oxalic acid application regimes. The results showed that applying oxalic acid at a concentration of 4 mmol/kg reduced the proportion of Fe-Mn oxide Cd and organic Cd compared to the control (CK), while increased the proportion of available Cd. The optimal application time is 30 or 40 days after emergence. The addition of exogenous oxalic acid promoted the growth of sunflowers, with the greatest increase in plant height observed when 4 mmol/kg oxalic acid was applied at 30 days after emergence. Exogenous oxalic acid enhanced the absorption of Cd by sunflower roots, with the total Cd accumulation in roots, stems, and leaves being higher than in the control (CK). When 4 mmol/kg oxalic acid was applied at 30 days after emergence, the total Cd accumulation in roots, stems, and leaves was highest. Under different application times and concentration levels of oxalic acid, Cd accumulation was highest in roots, followed by leaves, with stems showing the lowest accumulation. The NPT content in each part is as follows: root > stem > leaf. Applying 5 mmol/kg oxalic acid after 30 days of sunflower emergence resulted in relatively higher total NPT content in roots, stems, and leaves compared to the control (CK). The TOPSIS model was used for comprehensive evaluation, which showed that 4 mmol/kg oxalic acid application at 30 days after emergence could be used as the optimal oxalic acid application regime for phytoremediation. These findings indicate that the addition of oxalic acid effectively promoted the absorption of Cd by sunflower and increased the efficiency of Cd removal from the rhizosphere soil, with the optimal removal of soil Cd achieved by applying oxalic acid at a concentration of 4 mmol/kg 30 days after the emergence of oilseed sunflower seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) dry rot due to fungal infections causes the loss of a significant amount of potatoes. In this study, the antifungal effects of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) extracts against Fusarium sulphureum were investigated. The results of in vitro antifungal tests showed that all four sunflower extracts significantly inhibited the growth of F. sulphureum. Notably, the optimal inhibitory concentrations of ethyl acetate extract from sunflower disk (EESD), ethyl acetate extract from sunflower stalk (EESS), petroleum ether extract from sunflower disk (PESD) and petroleum ether extract from sunflower stalk (PESS) against F. sulphureum were 160 mg/mL, 160 mg/mL, 240 mg/mL, and 240 mg/mL, respectively. In addition, these extracts significantly inhibited the activities of polygalacturonase (PG), polymethyl-galacturonase (PMG), carboxymethyl cellulase (Cx), and β-glucosidase (β-Glu) secreted by F. sulphureum in three potato varieties: Longshu No.7, Longshu No.10 and Xindaping. These results provide a theoretical foundation for the biological control of potato dry rot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterlogging affects a high proportion of cultivated land worldwide. Sunflower, soybean and sorghum growth and yield can be affected differently depending on the moment and duration of waterlogging stress. If stress conditions occur during the critical period for yield potential definition (flowering in, sunflower and sorghum and end of pod formation in soybean) they directly reduce grain number, but if the stress occurs during the grain‐filling period, grain weight would be affected. The aim of this study focuses on determining the effects of the moment and duration of waterlogging stress on the yield and its components in sunflower, soybean and sorghum. This information will be useful to understand the effects of waterlogging on yield and to choose a suitable crop or sowing date based on predicted weather conditions for a certain place. To achieve this objective, four experiments were conducted at the Experimental Station of INTA (Reconquista, Santa Fe, Argentina). The effect of the waterlogging in terms of moment (vegetative, critical and grain‐filling periods) and duration (3, 7 and 10 days) on the three crops was evaluated. Sunflower expressed the most negative impact of waterlogging during the vegetative stages (26, 78 and 98% of yield losses with 3, 7 and 10 days, respectively) while soybean suffered major reductions when the stress occurred during the critical period (5%–17% of yield loses). Sorghum did not express any negative responses for the moments and durations tested. This study suggests that the critical period for a waterlogging event differs, according to crops, from the critical period cited for other stresses. Moreover, the magnitude of the damage will mainly depend on the duration of the event. Further studies are needed to elucidate different physiological responses of the species during waterlogging stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathogen Plasmopara halstedii, causing downy mildew (DM), is a widespread sunflower disease which can be controlled by single dominant genes. Wild Helianthus annuus have been a valuable source of vertical resistance to control P. halstedii, but such resistance may eventually be overcome by new races of the pathogen. Alternatively, quantitative, or partial resistance, is more stable and may be combined with vertical resistance to prevent DM outbreaks. We assessed the responses of six populations of wild H. annuus naturalized in Argentina to race 710 of P. halstedii. We examined: 1) the aerial phenotype (including seedling death) using two damage scales and three disease indices, 2) the growth of the pathogen along the hypocotyls, and 3) the presence of the pathogen in the root system. We found that the evaluated sunflower wild populations had lower disease levels than the susceptible cultivated controls. A histologic analysis showed that the wild H. annuus seedlings showed cellular reactions (e.g. necrosis and the deposit of materials on the walls of invaded cells) to restrict the pathogen's growth, allowing the identification of two possible types of resistance: type I, when the growth of the pathogen was limited to the base of the hypocotyls, and type II, when the pathogen managed to invade the entire length of the hypocotyls. The wild sunflower populations also showed differential responses to root infections. A quantitative or partial genetic resistance, rather than resistance based on major genes, seems to be operating in the sampled populations. The individuals found to be resistant in each population represent promising germplasm for sunflower breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine the genetic divergence of sunflower germplasm lines and to estimate variability, genetic advance, heritability and correlation with respect to seed physiological characters like seed vigour and germination with yield and its components. The study was conducted at ICAR-Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research, Hyderabad, India, with latitude of 17° 22' 31" N and longitude 78° 28' 27" E. to evaluate 76 elite germplasm line of sunflower along with four checks viz., DRSF-113, DRSF-108, Phule Bhaskar and KBSH-44 during Kharif 2023 in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with two replications. The phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation were high for seed yield per plant with 51.28% and 49.72%, respectively. The traits with highest genotypic variance were plant height at harvest (cm) (468.83) and the lowest value was registered by 100 seeds weight (g) (4.52). High heritability (94.30) and high genetic advance (99.72%) were exhibited by seed yield per plant. The traits seed vigour and seed germination showed high heritability and high genetic advance of mean. The results revealed that seed yield has high significant positive correlation with germination and other traits like head diameter and plant height at harvest suggesting that these traits are valuable indicators for enhancing sunflower yield. As limited studies are available related to variability, heritability and association of seed vigour, germination and plant height30th day, the study was conducted to see the impact of early seed characters on seed yield and oil content. Overall, the significant relationships identified among various characters support the notion that strategic selection based on correlated traits can effectively increase seed yield in sunflower cultivation, ultimately aiding in the development of superior sunflower varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research investigates the influence of various treatments on the growth and phenology of kharif sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) across two consecutive years, 2021 and 2022. The study examines the effects of different sowing windows, cultivars, and protective treatments on plant height, number of leaves plant-1, total dry matter accumulation plant-1, and number of days required to attain phenological stages. Results indicate that early sowing window (S1-MW25) led to increased plant height, number of leaves plant-1, and total dry matter accumulation, while delayed sowing resulted in decreased growth parameters. The cultivar V3-Phule Bhaskar was performed superior in plant height, leaf count, and total dry matter production compared to other and plant in T1-protected condition using insecticides consistently yielding higher growth parameters and phenology compared to unprotected conditions in scarcity zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The cultivation of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) as a cut flower stands out in floriculture due to its aesthetic beauty and commercial value. Understanding how cut sunflower genotypes adapt to different edaphoclimatic regions and management practices is essential to optimize flower quality and productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of plant density and location on the development, growth, and quality of cut sunflower in tropical and subtropical environments. Plant densities of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 plants/m2 were evaluated in tropical climate and subtropical climate using a randomized block design in a factorial scheme. Results showed significant differences between locations for plant height, capitulum and stem diameter, final number of leaves, leaf area, leaf area index, phyllochron, and the developmental cycle. Plant density significantly influenced these variables except for plant height and developmental cycle. The interaction between location and plant density was significant only for capitulum diameter and final leaf number. The findings indicate that both planting density and location significantly influence the developmental cycle of cut sunflowers, with lower densities favoring more robust plants at harvest. A density of 30 plants/m2 is recommended for efficient space use without significantly compromising floral stem quality. All produced stems are marketable, suggesting that adjusting planting density can optimize production without compromising quality, adapting to specific regional conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichomes play a key role in both heavy metal tolerance and herbivory defense, and both stressors have been shown to induce increased trichome density. However, the combined effect of these stressors on trichome density in general, and specifically on metal-hyperaccumulating plants, has yet to be examined. The aim of this study was to test the effect of cadmium availability and herbivory on leaf trichome density and herbivore deterrence in the metal hyperaccumulator Helianthus annuus. To test this, H. Annuus plants were grown in control pots or pots inoculated with 10 mg/kg cadmium and were subjected to either no herbivory or simulated herbivory using mechanical damage and foliar jasmonic acid application. Herbivore deterrence was tested in a feeding assay using Spodoptera littoralis caterpillars. Interestingly, while the trichome density of H. annuus increased by 79% or 53.5% under high cadmium availability or simulated herbivory, respectively, it decreased by 26% when the stressors were combined. Furthermore, regardless of cadmium availability, simulated herbivory induced a 40% increase in deterrence of S. littoralis. These findings suggest that the combination of metal availability and herbivory might present excessive stress to hyperaccumulators. Moreover, they suggest that the risk of metal bioaccumulation in phytoremediation can be reduced by simulated herbivory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daily changes in the content of phytohormones accumulating in the hypocotyls of young sunflower seedlings that grow under a 14/10-h light-to-dark (LD) photoperiod were followed using LC–MS. The objective of the work was to investigate whether the presence of light and light transitions lead to visible changes visible in phytohormone levels on the sixth day after the onset of germination. The LC–MS technique used allowed the simultaneous detection of more than one hundred individual phytohormone derivatives, of which the daily accumulation patterns were determined for nearly fifty members. The daily changes in phytohormone levels followed specific patterns for each phytohormone. There were differences between the daytime and nighttime levels, most likely reflecting the effects of light on phytohormone metabolism. A significant difference was found between cytokinins (CKs) and all other phytohormones, so that CK group of phytohormones may be considered to have a separate role in hypocotyl elongation. Prolonged daytime (postponed dusk) resulted in a rapid disruption of rhythmic hypocotyl elongation and it triggered an acute light stress response that was evident in increased levels of a number of important phytohormones from all groups except CKs. However, this light stress, termed ARELD (Acute Response to Extended Light Duration), was not present in control plants grown under continuous light conditions. The data suggest that sunflower has means to adapt to the potentially stressful conditions of continuous light (LL). The qPCR-RT study of the isoforms of circadian clock-associated genes HaLHY, HaTOC1, HaELF3, and HaPIF3 revealed diurnal rhythms under both LD and LL conditions in which the peaks were synchronized and shifted toward the subjective dawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), known for its adaptability and high yield potential, is vital in global edible oil production. Estimating genetic diversity is a key pre-breeding activity in crop breeding. The current study comprised of 48 genotypes which were assessed for their biometrical traits at department of Oilseeds, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, during the rainy season of 2022. The lines were subsequently characterised using 103 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers for molecular diversity analysis. The results indicated that the net nucleotide distances indicated varying genetic divergence, with subpopulations II and V showing the highest (0.056) and I and IV the lowest (0.014). Subpopulation IV exhibited the highest heterozygosity (0.352), while subpopulation III had the lowest heterozygosity and a low Fst (0.173). Principal components analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis were employed for assessing the morphological diversity, facilitating genotype grouping and parent selection for breeding programs. The first four components cumulatively accounted for 86.72% of the total variation. Cluster Analysis grouped 48 sunflower genotypes into three clusters based on genetic diversity. COSF 13B stands out for its high head diameter, oil content, seed yield, and oil yield based on mean performance of morphological data. Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) mirrored the groupings from the Neighbor Joining method, with the first three components explaining 27.24% of the total variation. Molecular data analysis identified five distinct clusters among the germplasm. By integrating morphological and molecular marker data with genetic distance analysis, substantial diversity was revealed with the genotypes RHA 273 and GMU 325 consistently demonstrated high oil yield per plant. The genotypes GMU 477, GMU 450, COSF 13B, RHA 102, CMS 1103B, and RHA GPR 58 have been identified as suitable parents for enhancing oil content in sunflower breeding programs. These findings also aid in selecting SSR markers for genotype characterization and in choosing diverse parents for breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable alternatives are essential to improving agriculture production to meet the growing world's critical demands. Cyanobacteria and microalgae are considered renewable resources with a wide range of potential uses in the agricultural sector. We aimed to isolate cyanobacteria and microalgae from the mud of a carbon dioxide-rich sulfur pond and to investigate their plant growth-promoting (PGP) and soil bio-consolidating ability. Mud samples were subjected to DNA extraction and 16S rRNA gene sequencing to characterize the prokaryotic community. Phototrophic culturable microbiota was isolated and evaluated for different PGP properties. The most relevant isolates were combined in a consortium and used for in vitro bioconsolidation activity. In a greenhouse experiment, the isolates were evaluated for their ability to promote salinity stress tolerance in sunflower plants. Metabarcoding results showed that most Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASV) were associated with Actinobacteriota (35%), Proteobacteria (19%), and Acidobacteriota (11%) at the phylum level and Unknown (32%) and uncultured (31%) lineages at the genus level. The culture-dependent method yielded eight isolates associated with cyanobacteria and microalgae genera. The isolates obtained showed interesting PGP activities. Isolates C1, C2, and M1 were selected based on phosphate solubilization (85.6 µg PO43- mL-1 on average), indoles (C1 and M1 0.54 µg mL-1 IAA equivalents on average), and ACC deaminase activity (C2 and M1 6.00 µmol α-KB mg proteins-1 h-1). The consortium efficiently consolidated sand particles in the presence of calcium carbonate by forming activities biomineralized aggregates. In planta results showed positive effects of the consortium on Helianthus annuus L., plant growth under normal conditions and salt stress. The positive effects on soil and plants indicated their effectiveness as bioconsolidants and biostimulant agents. Our findings highlight the interesting potential of cyanobacteria and microalgae applications in sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]