Trends of decade-wise genetic diversity were assessed in popular Indian rice genotypes released from the 1970s to 2010s, using gene-specific markers and key yield and yield- contributing traits. Genetic diversity showed a downward trend from landraces to the 2010s using both gene-specific markers and phenotypic data, although with slight deviations among various decades. This study reinforces the need for regular assessment of temporal trends in genetic diversity to meet future food demands while conserving on-farm crop diversity.

Wheat lines were treated with allelochemicals extracted from A. carambola. A low treatment concentration led to increased root area, accompanied by a high proportion of storage parenchyma tissues, and enlarged vascular bundles. Using a high extract concentration, root cortical parenchyma collapsed while stem chlorenchyma was transformed to sclerenchyma. Line 7076 responded differently, as it possessed an enlarged root cortical proportion, enlarged stem vascular bundles and increased leaf thickness. A low concentration (15%) of leaf extract promoted growth, whereas a higher concentration (30%) caused significant reduction in morpho-anatomical traits.

The sustainability of grain production systems is especially challenging under tropical conditions, where high temperatures and moisture in the rainy season accelerate biogeochemical processes and soil degradation. Despite the lack of technological options for enabling sustainable grain production systems in agricultural frontiers, in this study, we showed that intercropping maize with braquiaria and crotalaria increases soil microbial activity, nutrient cycling, and grain yield of subsequent soybean and millet crops. Our results have provided a feasible option for sustainable grain production systems in eastern Maranhão.

Understanding the genetic basis of seed weight might lead to improvement in soybean yield and seed appearance quality by optimising different genes or alleles controlling seed weight. In this study, using the progenies of a cross between cultivated and wild soybeans including a BC₄F₂ population, a heterogeneous inbred family population, and a pair of near-isogenic lines, a seed weight QTL, qSW17.1, was validated and characterised, and its candidate gene Glyma.17G108500 was mined.

Diversity of common bean from Serbia was investigated. Substantial diversity was found in terms of agronomic value, corroborated by genetic and morphological variability. Information on variation in bean shape, size and productivity suggests suitability for different types of cultivation and use, and should ensure conservation and further research of this germplasm.