Volume 31, No. 1 (2022)
Articles
OBSERVATIONS ON THE ALGAL FLORA OF THE SIRET RIVER HYDROGRAPHIC BASIN (ROMANIA)
IOAN CĂRĂUŞ
The article presents the results of the observations regarding the algal flora from 57 water bodies in the largest hydrographic basin in Romania – that of the Siret River. Samples were taken for algological analysis (phytoplankton, periphyton, microphytobenthos) from rivers, dam reservoirs, fishponds etc. During the research period (1965-2013) a total of 941 species of algae were identified, of which 278 are novelties for the algoflora of this river basin. The highest share – as number of species – has been achieved by diatoms (340 species), followed by green algae (237 species).
THE ALLELOPATHIC POTENTIAL OF ERIGERON ANNUUS (L.) DESF. SUBSP. ANNUUS EXTRACTS ON CROP SPECIES
LILIANA CRISTINA SOARE, ANCA NICOLETA ŞUŢAN, CODRUŢA MIHAELA DOBRESCU, OANA ALEXANDRA DRĂGHICEANU
Invasive plants are one of the biggest threats to biodiversity. The invasive plant species have a high allelopathic potential, which helps them spread to new areas. The allelopathic effect of invasive species on different plants varies upon to the phenophase. Erigeron annuus is an annual invasive alien species, which we can find in Romania. This paper investigated the allelopathic effect induced by aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts obtained from Erigeron annuus (L.) Desf. subsp. annuus on crop species. The extracts were obtained using dried plant material from the aerial parts of the plant: stems, leaves, inflorescences. For each type of extract, we used two dilutions: 1:10 and 1:100. We used the seed of three of the most important crop plants: wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) and pea (Pisum sativum L.). After hydration, the seeds were immersed for one hour in extracts, and then put in Petri dishes in the dark. The parameters which were determined after four days of the beginning of the experiment are the length of the root and stem, fresh and dry biomass. The influence of extracts was more pronounced at the roots than at the stems of the seedlings, regardless of species. The effect varies upon the type of extract and upon the species. The hydroalcoholic extract diluted 10 times inhibited growth, especially in the case of dicotyledons.
THE ABUNDANCE DYNAMICS AND SPECIES COMPOSITION OF THRIPS (THYSANOPTERA) ON SWEET PEPPERS IN GREENHOUSE
ЕLENA MUNTYAN(1), PETR ILIEV(2), MICHAIL BATKO(1), IRINA ILIEVA(2), MICHAELLA PLACHINTA(1)
Thrips species composition and seasonal abundance was studied on greenhouse sweet pepper crops in Rebublic of Moldova. Ten thrips species have been identified using yellow sticky traps with methyl isonicotinate and by visual pest counts in pepper flowers. The economically important Thysanoptera species (T. tabaci , F.intonsa, F. occidentalis , T. atratus) that can spread viral infections and cause epiphytotics have been detected among them. Onion thrips was the eudominant species on pepper flowers (40.9%) and on the yellow sticky traps (84.7%). In May and July the Frankliniella species complex (F. intonsa and F. occidentalis ) abundance on sticky traps with methyl isonicotinate was low, not exceeding 3.3% on average of the total thrips. The proportion of thrips of the genus Frankliniella increased to 7.6% by September. Predatory thrips Aeolothrips intermedius were detected on traps in relatively high numbers (10%) at the beginning of the pepper vegetation. The role of A. intermedius in the suppression of the phytophagous thrips number during the cultivation of sweet pepper in a greenhouse is discussed.
THE EFFECT OF SPORES EXTRACTS WITH GREEN SYNTHESIZED BIMETALLIC NANOPARTICLES ON CUCUMIS SATIVUS L.
OANA ALEXANDRA DRĂGHICEANU, CODRUŢA MIHAELA DOBRESCU, ANCA NICOLETA ŞUŢAN, LILIANA CRISTINA SOARE
The development of nanotechnologies represents a promising way to improve sustainable agriculture because nanoparticles can be used as fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, can reduce the stress caused by various factors (salinity) or can be used for seed priming. Green synthesis is an important method to produce nanoparticles due to the lack of toxic waste and because is relatively simple and cheap. However, nanoparticles have unique properties that influence their bioavailability, bioaccumulation and toxicity. Because of this ecotoxicological research, which studies the effect of nanoparticles on plants are important. In this study, we determined the effect of spore extracts with green synthesized bimetallic nanoparticles on cucumber. For obtaining the extracts, we used spores from two species of ferns (Asplenium scolopendrium and Dryopteris filix-mas) and two types of solvents (water and hydroalcoholic solution). The bimetallic nanoparticles (Au:Ag 1:1 and Au:Ag 1:10) were synthesized using HAuCl4 and AgNO3. The extracts were tested in Cucumis sativus seeds after being diluted 10 and 100 times, respectively. Exposure of Cucumis sativus seeds to aqueous extracts of A. scolopendrium and D. filix-mas spores with and without bimetallic nanoparticles has usually stimulated root growth, while the stem growth was stimulated only at the variants without bimetallic nanoparticles. For the hydroalcoholic extracts, at the variants with extracts with bimetallic nanoparticles diluted 100 times were obtained better results than in control with water or with hydroalcoholic solutions.
ENTOMOPHAGES ATTRACTION METHOD IN TOMATO FIELD AGROCENOSIS
ALLA GLADCAIA, TUDOR NASTAS
Many pest populations can be controlled by improving the efficiency of local diversity and the existing community of natural enemies. The aim of our work was to study the method of attracting entomophages (Coccinellidae) to the tomato field agrocenosis using nectariferous plants to control pests (Aphidoidea). As a result of the research, it was found that the sequence of nectariferous plants (f. Apiaceae) flowering periods is a prerequisite for flowering conveyor. It was noted that coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) and dill (Anethum graveolens L.) seeding in a tomato field can create a flowering conveyor that supports the vital activity of entomophages from the third decade of June to mid-August. The main species of Coccinellidae family entomophages, which were found in agrobiocenoses of nectar-bearing crops of the Apiaceae family, were identified: Coccinella septempunctata Linnaeus; Hippodamia sp., Harmonia sp. It was determined that the reduction in the number of Aphidoidea pests (up to 40,2 ind./m2) and increasing the number of Coccinellidae entomophages (up to 1,9 ind./m2) on tomatoes was observed during the period of full flowering of nectar-bearing crops Anethum graveolens L. and Coriandrum sativum L. It has been found that the most optimal ratio of phytophage/entomophage was formed in late July, early August - the period of flowering of nectar-bearing crops (1:18.0 ind./m2). The maximum number of aphids and the minimum number of entomophages were observed before flowering of nectariferous plants (1:223.6 ind./m2);
RESEARCH ON THE ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF PROPOLIS AND THE DEGREE OF USE OF THIS PRODUCT
NICOLETA BADĂLUŢĂ(1), DUMITRA RĂDUCANU(1), MARIA ALEXANDRA ILIŞESCU(1), ANA-MARIA GEORGESCU(2)
The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of propolis. The objectives of the paper are: documenting the subject from the specialized literature; evaluation of the knowledge and use by population of propolis-based products; processing of crude propolis and preparation of propolis tincture; laboratory testing of the antibacterial activity of propolis in the form of propolis tincture on two groups of bacteria by the diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC).
THE RESPONSE OF GRAPEVINE TO WATER STRESS IN THE PRESENCE OF VIRUS INFECTION
ELENA-COCUŢA BUCIUMEANU, IONELA-CĂTĂLINA GUŢĂ, DIANA ELENA VIZITIU, LORENA-MARINA CIRIPAN
Grapevine (Vitis spp.) is a model plant for the plant-virus interactions studies of woody species in both controlled (greenhouse, in vitro) and field trials. Grapevine is potentially infected by numerous viral entities. A few studies have been performed on pathogenic viruses infecting this crop, in some environmental conditions (water stress) and in different grapevine genotype - virus combinations. These works, still in quite reduced number, highlights the importance of deepening the biology underlying the plant-virus interactions
CONTRIBUTIONS TO A DURABLE VITICULTURE IN DEALU MARE VINEYARD WITH THE ANALYTIC HIERARCHY PROCESS
DIANA ELENA VIZITIU(1), ELENA-COCUŢA BUCIUMEANU(1), LUCIAN DINCĂ(2), ANA-MARIA RADOMIR(1)
Dealu Mare is the largest vineyard in the Hills of Vallachia and Oltenia viticultural region (Region III). With the aim to support a durable viticulture, an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) have been done to identify the most valuable grapevine cultivars for wine in Dealu Mare vineyard. The grapevine cultivars taken into the study are dedicated to white wine (Chardonnay, Fetească regală, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon, Grasă de Cotnari), flavoured wine (Tămâioasă românească, Muscat Ottonel), and red wine (Pinot Noir), all of them being zoned for this grapevine growing aria. According to the results, Tămâioasă românească, Sauvignon and Fetească regală are selected as the cultivars with the highest potential for this vineyard. The eco-climatic conditions of Dealu Mare vineyard are very suitable for the cultivation of selected grapevine varieties, despite to their low tolerance to different stress factors. The analyses were obtained using the Expert Choice Desktop software (v. 11.5.1683).
OBSERVATIONS ON THE PHENOPHASES OF FLOWERING AND THE INFLUENCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ON CHERRY TREE
IOAN VIOREL RAŢI, MIHAELA MOISEI, DUMITRA RĂDUCANU, NICOLETA BĂDĂLUŢĂ
This study represents the team work carried out by biology students during 2 years 2021, 2022 coordinated by PhD Professor Rati Ioan Viorel, idea that started during the COVID pandemic due to the need to be in communion with nature and to implement the information into practice. The objectives of the study were: to make observations regarding the development of cherry fruiting phases starting with the swelling of flower buds, the beginning of flowering, the maximum and the end of flowering. By establishing the influence of climatic factors (temperature, humidity, precipitation) on the fruiting phenophases of cherry species in the evaluated area, we can find optimal solutions to increase the degree of natural fertility and avoid pests.
PLANTS FROM ROMANIAN SPONTANEOUS FLORA USED IN TRAUMATISMS AND RHEUMATISMS
MILIAN GURĂU
Approximately 150 flora species of spontaneous cormophytes in Romania can be used in the most unpredictable and unpleasant life situations such as severe blows, haemorrhages, rheumatism, etc. We have identified 104 species used in phytotherapy to reduce rheumatic pain, 128 species used to accelerate wound healing, 5 in dislocations, 31 for gout, 9 in contusions, 8 in bruises, 41 in haemorrhages, 7 in stings, 22 in cuts, 36 in burns, 13 in skin ulcers, 10 in varicose ulcers, etc. Plant lists are not definitive because some plants are used less or some will be used more frequently in therapies. In the absence of some plants that are needed, there can be found some with less efficiency or others with better effectiveness but not present in the flora of Romania.
OBSERVATIONS ON ARTHROPODS FROM THE SEED CABBAGE CROP DURING THE GROWING SEASON AND UNDER THE CLIMATIC CONDITIONS IN BACAU
GABRIEL-ALIN IOSOB, TINA OANA CRISTEA, ALEXANDRU BUTE
White cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) is a biennial species. The culture intended for seed production is realized in the fall. Insect pest attack is a key factor contributing to low seed yield. Data show that, several arthropos were found to attack cabbage crops and have been identified as belonging to five orders. The most numerous order was represented by the order Coleoptera with 34% of the collected specimens followed by the orders Araneae and Hemiptera, each with 22% and the orders Hymenoptera and Trombidiformes with 11% each. This paper presents the arthropod fauna of the seed cabbage crop during the growing season in the climatic conditions of the Bacau area, focusing on the pest species of this crop. Pests affecting seed cabbages at Vegetable Research and Development Station from Bacau include: rape beetle - Meligethes aeneus (Fabricius, 1775), Cabbage stem weevil - Ceutorhynchus pallidactylus (Marsham, 1802), Cabbage seed pod weevil - Ceutorhynchus assimilis (Paykull, 1800), Cabbage aphid - Brevicoryne brassicae (Linné, 1758).
RESEARCHES REGARDING THE MICROBIOTA OF THE HOMEMADE BORS, AS HEALTHY SOURCE
NICOLETA BĂDĂLUŢĂ(1), RADU CIOBANU(1), CLAUDIA UNGUREANU(2), ANA-MARIA GEORGESCU(3), DUMITRA RĂDUCANU(1)
The aim of this study is the quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the homemade bors microbiota, a microbiota developed after the fermentation of the mixture of cereals, herbs and huste. Bors, a specific product for traditional Romanian gastronomy, is considered a real therapeutic remedy. It is a product rich in organic acids, minerals, vitamins and enzymes, resulting from the fermentation process of bran. The microbiota that helps fermentation generates B vitamins, D vitamin, enzymes, minerals in easily assimilable forms (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus), and vital trace oligoelements for health: selenium, but especially chromium with important benefits in regulating blood sugar and lowering cholesterol. Homemade bors (as grandmother used to do) has many benefits for the body compared to commercial products that may contain preservatives, flavor enhancers and various food additives, which alter its nutritional quality. The objectives of this research were: identification in the literature of studies and researches on this product; identification of conditions and ways of preparation of homemade bors, realization of experimental variants of bors in laboratory conditions: 9 experimental variants and monitoring of their physico-chemical, organoleptic parameters and evaluation of the microbiota developed in each experimental variant. A questionnaire was applied regarding the preparation and consumption of this product. The obtained results showed a quantitative differentiation of the microbiota, of the organoleptic qualities and a variation of the physico-chemical parameters of the bors samples, depending on the quantities of the huste, flour, corn and wheat bran and the water properties used in the work.
MORPHO-ANATOMICAL STUDY ON MELISSA OFFICINALIS L.
DIANA – ELENA MAFTEI(1), DANIEL – IOAN MAFTEI(2), ANAMARIA ŞOŞA(1)
Mellisa officinalis L. is a herbaceous, perennial plant, known as lemon balm. Our previously published scientific studies on lemon balm included biotechnological, biometrical and biochemical research results. As the inner structure of lemon balm is not entirely known, the purpose of this scientific study was to observe each and every aspect in this species’ development, as well as its organs’ histo-anatomy. The vegetal material used in the histo – anatomical research was represented by axial and lateral vegetative organs of lemon balm plants originating from Greece, acclimatised and cultivated in Racova village, Bacău county. The tested plants were in various developmental stages.
PEST AND DISEASE OF CHICKPEA (CICER ARIETIUNUM L.) AND THEIR MANAGEMENT: A REVIEW
MARIANA CALARA, DAN IOAN AVASILOAIEI, CARMINA MIHAELA BENCHEA, CREOLA BREZEANU, PETRE MARIAN BREZEANU, SILVICA AMBĂRUŞ, TINA OANA CRISTEA, GABRIEL-ALIN IOSOB, DANIELA BOURUC, ANDREEA TREMURICI ANTAL, ALEXANDRU BUTE, SEBASTIAN PETRU MUSCALU
This paper is a review of the literature in recent years that focuses on the the most relevant pest and disease of chickpea (Cicer arietinum). Chickpea is a remarkable legume crop and has become an integral part of a sustainable production system. Chickpea cultivation plays a pivotal role in innovative sustainable models of agro-ecosystems inserted in crop rotation for soil improvement and the reduction of chemical inputs. Damage by insect pests and disease-causing pathogens are considered as the most significant factors leading to low yield in chickpea. Being rich in protein, chickpea plant is vulnerable to a number of insect pests, which attack on roots, foliage and pods.