Examinando por Autor "Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi"

Mostrando 1 - 20 de 115

Agroecosystems with greater canopy cover increase soil organic carbon density and reduce soil erodibility in the Peruvian Amazon
(Frontiers Media S.A., 2026-03-11) Chuchon Remon, Rodolfo Juan; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi; Cruz Luis, Juancarlos Alejandro; Vallejos Torres, Geomar
Introduction: Soil degradation in tropical agricultural landscapes represents one of the major challenges for sustainability and food security, particularly in the Peruvian Amazon. In this region, the loss of vegetative cover alters carbon storage and increases vulnerability to erosion. This study evaluated how gradients of canopy structure in representative agroecosystems—cassava with no canopy (CV-S), oil palm with intermediate canopy density (OP-S), cacao with medium-density canopy (CC-S), and coffee with high-density canopy (CF-S)—influence soil organic carbon density (SOCD) and erodibility (K factor). Methods: A total of 1,049 soil samples (0–20 cm) were collected across three Amazonian regions and analyzed for their physical, chemical, and textural properties, complemented by multivariate and geostatistical analyses using ordinary kriging. Results: Results showed that SOCD increased consistently with canopy density, from 32.68 t C ha⁻¹ in CV-S to 82.64 t C ha⁻¹ in CF-S. The Factor K exhibited the opposite pattern, decreasing from 0.31 to 0.16 as tree cover increased, indicating greater resistance to erosion. Erodibility was primarily determined by soil texture, with a strong positive correlation associated to silt content (r = 0.89) and a negative with sand content (r = –0.74). Likewise, SOCD showed a very high correlation with total nitrogen (r = 0.96), reflecting a tight coupling between carbon accumulation and nutrient availability under denser canopies. Principal component analysis further revealed that dense-canopy systems are related to higher SOCD and total nitrogen, whereas canopy-free systems are linked to higher bulk density and greater susceptibility to erosion. Discussion: Spatial modeling showed that agroecosystems with more developed canopies exhibit better spatial structure and predictive performance, indicating a more stable edaphic organization under dense tree cover. Taken together, the results demonstrate that canopy structure functions as a key ecological regulator in Amazonian agroecosystems, with higher canopy cover promoting greater soil carbon accumulation while reducing soil erodibility. This highlights that dense-canopy systems, such as coffee and cacao, represent effective strategies to strengthen the sustainability and resilience of agricultural landscapes in the Peruvian Amazon.
An evaluation of dryland ulluco cultivation yields in the face of climate change scenarios in the Central Andes of Peru by using the Aquacrop model
(MDPI, 2024-06-26) Flores Marquez, Ricardo; Vera Vilchez, Jesús Emilio; Verástegui Martínez, Patricia; Lastra Paucar, Sphyros Roomel; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi
Ullucus tuberosus is an Andean region crop adapted to high-altitude environments and dryland cultivation. It is an essential resource that guarantees food security due to its carbohydrate, protein, and low-fat content. However, current change patterns in precipitation and temperatures warn of complex scenarios where climate change will affect this crop. Therefore, predicting these effects through simulation is a valuable tool for evaluating this crop’s sustainability. This study aims to evaluate ulluco’s crop yield under dryland conditions at 3914 m.a.s.l. considering climate change scenarios from 2024 to 2100 by using the AquaCrop model. Simulations were carried out using current meteorological data, crop agronomic information, and simulations for SSP1-2.6, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5 of CMIP 6. The results indicate that minimum temperature increases and seasonal precipitation exacerbation will significantly influence yields. Increases in rainfall and environmental CO2 concentrations show an opportunity window for yield increment in the early stages. However, a negative trend is observed for 2050–2100, mainly due to crop temperature stress. These findings highlight the importance of developing more resistant ulluco varieties to heat stress conditions, adapting water management practices, continuing modeling climate change effects on crops, and investing in research on smallholder agriculture to reach Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2, and 13
Analysis of binder proportions on the calorific value in a briquette made from cocoa pod husk in the Peruvian Amazon
(Frontiers Media S.A., 2025-09-22) Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi; Paquiyauri, Alexandra; Neyra, Walter; Siqueira Bahia, Rita de Cassia; Vallejos Torres, Geomar
Introduction: The growing global demand for fuel has created challenges in the supply of raw materials, positioning biomass derived from cocoa pod husk waste as an economically viable and environmentally sustainable energy alternative. Methods: This study evaluated the effect of different binder types on the calorific value of briquettes produced from fermented cocoa pod husk waste in the Peruvian Amazon. For the calorific value assay, 1.05 kg of fermented cocoa pod husk waste was combined with 100 g of starch-based binders derived from corn, cassava, or potato, all sourced from the San Martín region. Statistical analyses were performed in R Studio using the dplyr package, and mean comparisons were conducted with Tukey's HSD test (p < 0.05). Results: The lowest ash content was obtained with the potato-starch binder (7.03%), whereas the highest value was recorded in the control treatment without binder (8.71%). Fixed carbon content ranged from 3.70% to 5.97% across treatments. The lowest calorific value was observed with the corn-starch binder (3,486.0 kcal/kg), while the highest was achieved with cassava starch (3,586.66 kcal/kg). Discussion: These findings demonstrate the technical feasibility of producing high-quality charcoal briquettes from cocoa pod husk waste using starch-based binders, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional fuels.
Antagonistic interaction between zinc and cadmium in cocoa (Theobroma cacao L. var. CCN-51) seedlings amended with rock phosphate
(Frontiers Media SA, 2026-02-12) Díaz Chuquizuta, Henry; Malca Quezada, María Esmilda; Vallejos Torres, Geomar; Cuevas Gimenez, Juan Pablo; Huamaní Yupanqui , Hugo Alfredo; Sánchez Ojanasta, Martín; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi; Martínez Zapata, Boris Guillermo
Introduction: In the San Martın region, several studies have reported Cd concentrations in surface soils approaching the upper limit (UL), with mean values ranging from 0.27 to 1.351 mg·kg- ¹. Methods: Cadmium (Cd) transfer to Theobroma cacao (CCN-51) seedlings was evaluated under 12 factorial combinations of phosphate rock (RFP) and foliar zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) applications, using relative uptake (foliar Cd/soil Cd) as the primary response variable. Results: The treatment showing the highest Cd uptake was T4, defined as RFP = 0 mg·kg-1 and ZnSO4 = 527.80 mg·plant-1, with a value of 53.12. The observed range in relative uptake was 33.08 units, indicating substantial variation among management combinations. At the factor-level analysis, the high RFP treatment (114.55 mg·kg- ¹) was associated with an average reduction of approximately 26.5% in relative uptake and lower within-group variability compared to the 0 mg·kg- ¹ level. Interaction plots indicated that the effect of ZnSO4 on nutrient uptake depended on RFP level, with a descending response profile at high RFP concentrations. In parallel, soil correlation analyses identified available phosphorus and pH as the principal modulators of Cd transfer from soil to plant. Leaf-level principal component analysis showed that Zn and K were projected in the opposite direction to P2O5 and Cd, consistent with an ionic balance mechanism regulating Cd accumulation, and achieved an overall classification accuracy of approximately 81%, thereby confirming multivariate separability among treatments. Discussion: Collectively, these integrated results support identifying T4 as the treatment with the highest Cd uptake within the evaluated set. Accordingly, the presence of Zn²+–Cd²+ antagonism can be asserted; however, its expression is strongly influenced by soil pH and, most critically, by the availability of phosphorus derived from RFP.
Aplicación y manejo de Azospirillum en la agricultura
(Instituto Nacional de Innovación Agraria (INIA), 2026-06) Condori Ataupillco, Leivi Tatiana; Alarcón Romaní , Susan Milagros; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi
Azospirillum es un grupo de bacterias beneficiosas que ayudan a las plantas a crecer mejor y aprovechar más los nutrientes. Estas bacterias se aplican a las semillas, raíces o suelo para mejorar el desarrollo de los cultivos.
Aqueous-Medium Arsenic(V) Removal Using Iron Oxide-Coated Ignimbrite
(MDPI, 2024-12-28) Velarde Apaza, Lelie Diana; Chávez Collantes, Azucena; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi; Cuevas Gimenez, Juan Pablo; Villanueva Salas, José Antonio
Arsenate As(V) is a toxic contaminant commonly found in aquifers and groundwater that poses significant risks to human health. The effective treatment of arseniccontaminated water is therefore crucial for safeguarding public health. This study investigates removing As(V) using iron oxide-coated ignimbrite in batch experiments by varying the adsorbent dosage, initial As(V) concentration, contact time, and system temperature. The adsorption experiments revealed that the Langmuir isotherm model better fit the data (R2 = 0.99) than the Freundlich model (R2 = 0.73). According to the Langmuir model, the maximum adsorption capacity of As(V) on the iron oxide-coated ignimbrite was 4.84 mg·g −1 ± 0.12 mg·g −1 of As(V), with a standard deviation of ±0.05 mg·g −1 after 2 h of exposure with 0.15 g/50 mL iron oxide-coated ignimbrite adsorbent concentration. In the kinetic analysis, the pseudo-first-order model best described the adsorption process at 283 K, 293 K, and 303 K, although the pseudo-second-order model also showed an adequate fit, particularly at 293 K. This indicates that, while the pseudo-first-order model is generally more suitable under these conditions, the pseudo-second-order model may also apply under certain circumstances. The results of the batch experiments demonstrate that iron oxide-coated ignimbrite is a promising adsorbent for effectively reducing high concentrations of As(V) in contaminated water
Assessing soil and native high Andean grassland quality under grazing: A case study from the wet Puna of Peru
(John Wiley & Sons Australia, 2026-02-13) Arias Arredondo, Alberto Gilmer; Pérez Porras, Wendy Elizabeth; Lastra Paucar, Sphyros Roomel; Cruz Luis, Juancarlos Alejandro; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi; Turín Canchaya, Cecilia Claudia
High Andean grasslands are vulnerable to changes in their nutritional quality and carbon sequestration capacity, especially in grazing systems. This study evaluated soil quality and native grasses by measuring carbon, physicochemical parameters, and the nutritional quality of predominant species in the wet Puna of Junín, Peru. Significant differences were found in carbon storage and nutritional quality across different grazing grassland sites. Soil carbon levels were consistently high across all sites, with significant concentrations at San Pedro de Cajas (14.26% ± 11.7%; p < 0.05), and its carbon stock (210.7 ± 111.3 Mg/ha) exceeded that of Junín (+68%) and Ulcumayo (+107%). Also, the flat topography at this site is presumed to have influenced its soil fertility. No adverse relationship was observed between carbon content and animal units, regardless of continuous or rotational grazing system, and a strong negative Pearson correlation (r = 0.84) between total carbon and bulk density indicated the prevalence of organic materials and no soil compaction. It emphasizes how landscape features affect soil quality and ecosystem processes. The protein content of key species exhibited a strong Pearson correlation with plant phosphorus (r = 0.93), digestible organic matter (DOM), and metabolizable energy (ME; r = 0.75). The Redundancy Analysis (RDA) showed that plant functional traits are driven by chemical and physical gradients, underscoring the combined effects of nutrient availability and site constraints on pasture productivity and forage quality. Among native grasses, Cebadilla (Calamagrostis vicunarum [Wedd.] Pilg.) emerged as the most favorable option for animal nutrition and exhibited a significantly higher crude protein content (8.23% ± 0.89%), Metabolizable energy value (8.16 MJ/kg), and C/N ratio (~40). Future research should focus on linking soil and forage quality with animal physiological responses to improve understanding of grazing impacts and guide sustainable management in high-altitude grasslands.
Assessing the role of field isolated Pseudomonas and Bacillus as growth‐promoting rizobacteria on avocado (Persea americana) seedlings
(John Wiley & Sons Inc., 2024-07-17) Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi; Quispe Matos, Kenyi Rolando
This research aims to assess the efficacy of two genera of rhizobacteria from avocado field isolated: Pseudomonas and Bacillus, as plant growth‐promoting microorganisms in Hass avocado trees grafted onto Zutano rootstock.
Assessment of soil characteristics and the productive potential of native Poaceae forage species in the Central Highlands of Peru
(Polish Society of Ecological Engineering, 2025-06-10) Arias Arredondo, Alberto; Yalli Huamaní, Teodoro Bill; Cruz Luis, Juancarlos Alejandro; Requena Rojas, Edilson Jimmy; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi
Given the increasing pressure on natural grassland ecosystems in the Peruvian high Andes, optimizing the use of native forage species has become essential for understanding the relationship between soil characteristics and the productive potential of these plants. This study evaluated the relationship between soil properties and the produc tive potential of three native forage species: Festuca dolichophylla, Cinnagrostis vicunarum, and Jarava ichu. The research was conducted in natural grasslands in the district of Yauli, province of Yauli, department of Junin, at approximately 4000 m.a.s.l. During the dry season 2023, soil samples were collected following standardized protocols, and key soil parameters were analyzed. The nutritional characteristics of the forage species were also assessed, including dry matter content, total protein, calcium, phosphorus, in vitro organic matter digestibility, and metabolizable energy. The results revealed significant differences among species. Festuca dolichophylla exhibited the highest protein content (10.7%), superior digestibility (52.5%), and greater metabolizable energy (8.4 MJ∙kg-1), making it the most suitable forage option for livestock in the highland ecosystem over 4000 m.a.s.l., where en vironmental factors constrain agricultural activity. In contrast, Cinnagrostis vicunarum and Jarava ichu showed lower protein levels, with Jarava ichu displaying particularly low digestibility (28.9%) and energy content (4.6 MJ∙kg-1), limiting its productive potential despite its high dry matter yield. These findings provide a strong scien tific foundation for developing sustainable grassland management strategies in the Peruvian Andes, supporting the implementation of agronomic practices that enhance forage productivity while contributing to biodiversity conser vation. Moreover, this study highlights the importance of soil characterization as a key tool for optimizing forage resource utilization in high-altitude farming systems, facilitating informed decision-making in land management and environmental remediation policies.
Bacillus subtilis and Rhizophagus intraradices improve vegetative growth, yield, and fruit quality of Fragaria × ananassa var. San Andreas
(MDPI, 2024-09-02) Huasasquiche Sarmiento, Lucero; Alejandro, Leonela; Ccori, Thania; Cántaro Segura, Héctor; Samaniego Vivanco, Tomás Daniel; Quispe Matos, Kenyi Rolando; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi
Strawberry cultivation requires strategies that maintain or improve its yield within a scheme in which reducing fertilizers and other chemical products can make its consumption safer and more environmentally friendly. This study aims to evaluate the effect of Bacillus subtilis and Rhizophagus intraradices on strawberry growth, yield, and fruit quality. B. subtilis and R. intraradices were inoculated and co-inoculated under three fertilization levels of 225-100-250, 112-50-125, and 0-0-0 kg・ha−1 of N, P2O5 and K2O. Vegetative growth was evaluated in plant height (cm), leaf area (cm2), aerial fresh weight (g), aerial dry weight (g), and plant coverage (%) variables. Fruit quality parameters such as total acidity (g・100 mL−1), soluble solids (Brix◦), and firmness (kg) were also determined, as well as the number of fruits per m2 and yield (t・ha−1). The results showed that the pre-treatment of root immersion in a nutrient solution with B. subtilis and the fractionation of 6 L B. subtilis inoculation per plant at a concentration of 107 CFU・mL−1, in combination with 225-100-250 kg・ha−1 of N, P2O5, and K2O, achieved the highest accumulation of dry matter (12.9 +- 1.9 g・plant−1), the highest number of fruits (28.2 +- 4.5 fruits・m−2), and the highest yield (7.2 +- 1.4 t・ha−1). In addition, this treatment increased the soluble sugar content by 34.78% and fruit firmness by 26.54% compared to the control without inoculation. This study highlights the synergistic effect of mineral nutrition and microbial inoculation with B. subtilis in increasing strawberry yield and fruit quality.
Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in high Andean crops of the Peruvian Andes: comparative evaluation between irrigated and dry systems
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-12-13) Ccopi Trucios, Dennis; Requena Rojas, Edilson Jimmy; Ortega Quispe, Kevin Abner; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi; Révolo Acevedo, Ronald; Pizarro Carcausto, Samuel Edwin
Heavy metal contamination in Andean agricultural systems is a growing concern for food safety and environmental health. This study assessed the concentrations and bioaccumulation patterns of eleven metals (Cd, Pb, As, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, Hg, Mo) in seven representative crops cultivated under irrigated and rainfed conditions in the Mantaro Valley, central Peruvian Andes. Soil and foliar samples were collected from paired plots, and bioaccumulation factors (BAF) were calculated to evaluate metal transfer to plant tissues. Irrigated soils showed higher and more homogeneous concentrations of Cd, Pb, and As, reflecting long-term accumulation from historical mining activities and irrigation with contaminated water from the Mantaro River. Foliar concentrations exceeded Codex Alimentarius limits for Cd, Pb, and As in several crops, especially potato and broad bean. BAF analyses revealed distinct crop-specific behaviors: potato, quinoa, and broad bean frequently exhibited BAF >1 for metals such as Cd, Cu, Zn, and Mn, indicating active uptake and translocation. In contrast, cereals such as maize and barley maintained low BAF values (<1), suggesting conservative absorption patterns. Irrigation increased the bioavailability of several metals, resulting in higher foliar concentrations and elevated BAF values compared to rainfed systems. Multivariate analyses further differentiated metal accumulation profiles by crop type and water management system. These findings highlight the need for strengthened monitoring of high-accumulation crops and improved soil and water quality management in historically contaminated Andean agricultural regions.
Biochar-amended soils: A water-saving strategy for quinoa cultivation in the Andes
(John Wiley & Sons Inc., 2024-12-30) Condori Ataupillco, Tatiana; Flores Marquez, Ricardo; Quispe Rodriguez, Juan; Quispe Matos, Kenyi Rolando; Velásquez Mantari, José; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi
Previous studies showed that biochar amended soils significantly enhanced the growth and yield of quinoa under water limitations. So it becomes an emerging agronomic strategy to consider for sustainable quinoa production. Biochar can specifically be considered for the area particularly receiving low annual rainfall and more vulnerable to current climate change conditions
El biofertilizante líquido fermentado de residuos de camal mejora el rendimiento del cultivo de maíz
(Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, 2024-08-06) Samaniego Vivanco, Tomás Daniel; Pérez Porras, Wendy Elizabeth; Lastra Paúcar, Sphyros; Verme Mustiga, Ezio; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi
La aplicación exclusiva de fertilizantes sintéticos u orgánicos sigue generando polémica. La evidencia muestra que su aplicación conjunta puede mejorar la nutrición de los cultivos, evitar el uso excesivo de fertilizantes sintéticos y amortiguar su efecto contaminante en el suelo. Objetivo: Evaluar el uso de dosis de fertilización orgánica y mineral sobre el crecimiento y rendimiento del maíz amarillo duro Megahíbrido 619 INIA empleando un biofertilizante líquido derivado de la fermentación de residuos de camal. Metodología: Mediante un diseño experimental de bloques completos al azar con arreglo factorial 4x2, se ensayaron cuatro dosis de fertilización química NPK y la aplicación del biofertilizante. La fertilización mineral se fraccionó en dos partes, mientras que las aplicaciones del biofertilizante fermentado de residuos de camal se realizaron vía drench durante el crecimiento vegetativo y entre las etapas de panojamiento y llenado de grano a una dosis de 50 L. ha-1 de producto. Resultados: El uso del biofertilizante líquido (K1) tuvo un impacto positivo en el crecimiento, con un efecto equiparable en la altura y área foliar de la planta al aplicar una dosis media de fertilización química (F2_K1). La dosis más baja de fertilización química en combinación con el biofertilizante (F1_K1) obtuvo un índice de cosecha estadísticamente superior (+14%) en comparación con el la fertilización completa (F3_K1). Implicaciones: Si bien las fertilizaciones más altas no produjeron rendimientos superiores, es posible que en otras condiciones y con otros híbridos de maíz sí se observen diferencias significativas. Conclusión: La aplicación del biofertilizante líquido junto con una dosis reducida de fertilización mineral permite obtener un mayor índice de cosecha y rendimientos comparables con el uso de una fertilización mineral completa en el maíz amarillo.
Bioprospecting and exploration of extremophilic enzymes in bioremediation of wastewater polluted
(CRC Press, 2024-04-12) Hualpa Cutipa, Edwin; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi; Alfaro Cancino, Milagros Estefani; Arquíñego Zárate, Fiorella Maité; Julca Santur, Nikol Gianella; Mayhua, María José; Castro Tena, Lucero Katherine
Water, covering three-quarters of the Earth, is crucial for life and ecosystems and is also essential in industrial processes. However, most aquatic environments are polluted due to the massive discharge of wastewater with high pollutant loads, which threatens ecosystem health. To mitigate this environmental impact, humans have tried various physical and chemical strategies, but increased wastewater and reagents have the disadvantage of generating more waste, making it an environmentally unsustainable problem. Governments are now focusing on integrating living organisms or biological treatments to reduce or mitigate pollutants in contaminated matrices. Microbial biodiversity is being studied through bioprospecting strategies and the search for new microorganisms capable of biodegrading pollutants. Extremophilic microbes, which have undergone evolutionary processes and exhibited adaptive traits, have the potential to transform harmful contaminants into beneficial resources and improve their tolerance mechanisms to complex pollutants. This chapter aims to provide updated information on sustainable wastewater bioremediation processes using extremophilic microorganisms and their enzymes, considering their properties, characteristics, stability, and biodegradation capacity. Genetic modifications and editions are also discussed to obtain biomolecules with greater versatility and efficacy
Biorremediación del suelo con acidez y metales pesados (As, Cd) en un ecosistema altoandino con influencia minera mediante biochar de estiércol de cuy y consorcios microbianos
(DEEV MINAS, 2026-04-24) Arias Arredondo, Alberto; Cruz Luis, Juancarlos Alejandro; López Rodríguez, Melina; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi
Los suelos de pastizales altoandinos en zonas con influencia minera (Pasco, Perú, 4125 m) presentan acidez y contaminación por arsénico (As: 5.77 mg kg⁻¹) y cadmio (Cd: 1.71 mg kg⁻¹), lo que genera riesgo de transferencia de metales a la cadena trófica ganadera. Evaluamos el efecto del biochar de estiércol de cuy inoculado con consorcios microbianos (Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas putida, Trichoderma sp.) sobre la inmovilización de As y Cd y la calidad nutricional de pastos nativos (Festuca dolichophylla, Carex sp.) y cultivados (Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata). Establecimos un experimento factorial 4×4 en bloques completos al azar (48 parcelas). Determinamos factores de bioconcentración (BCF) y calidad nutricional, analizando mediante GLM y PCA. Los resultados evidenciaron una interacción significativa especie×tratamiento. Destacó la reversión fenotípica de Festuca dolichophylla frente a As, que pasó de acumuladora (BCF>1) a exclusora efectiva (BCF<<0.01) bajo inoculación con Trichoderma sp. Asimismo, Trichoderma sp. y P. putida redujeron la translocación de Cd en Lolium perenne (BCF<<0.1), manteniendo niveles seguros para consumo animal. El uso sinérgico de biochar y consorcios microbianos mitigó la transferencia de metales y preservó la calidad nutricional del forraje.
Carbon storage in coffee agroforestry systems: Role of native and introduced shade trees in the central Peruvian Amazon
(MDPI, 2025-06-30) Salgado Veramendi, Noelito; Romero Chavez, Lorena Estefani; Huerto Pajuelo, Eldhy Sianina; Ibarra Porra, Carolina del Carmen; Cunyas Camayo, Joseph Michael; Aldava Pardave, Uriel; Vallejos Torres, Geomar; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi
What is the potential impact on carbon storage of the native and introduced tree species commonly associated with coffee in the central Peruvian Amazon? Coffee is a pivotal crop within the Peruvian economy. Nevertheless, the establishment of new plantations—driven by the subsistence needs of smallholder farmers—has led to expansion into forested areas. Given the significance of this crop and the demonstrated ecosystem benefits of agroforestry systems (AFSs), the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of native and introduced shade tree species on carbon storage in coffee plantations. This study was observational and exhibited characteristics of an unbalanced incomplete block design. Agroforestry systems (AFSs) with shade tree species such as Inga, Retrophyllum rospigliosii, Eucalyptus and Pinus, and three unshaded coffee plantations, were included in this study. The total carbon stored in each AFS was higher than in unshaded coffee plantations. Soil contributed between 47% and 91% to total carbon storage, shade trees (24–46%), coffee (2–7%), leaf litter (0.6–1.9%) and shrubs and herbaceous plants (0.02–0.3%). The AFS with R. rospigliosii achieved the highest carbon storage with 190.38 Mg ha−1, highlighting the compatibility of this species with coffee plantations, as well as its positive effect on climate change mitigation in deforested areas.
Challenges of organic amendments: Impact of vermicompost leachate and biochar on popcorn maize in saline soil
(MDPI, 2025-07-19) Rivas Aratoma, Brenda; Pérez Porras, Wendy Elizabeth; Ortiz Dongo, Luis Felipe; Arévalo Aranda, Yuri Gandhi; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi
Organic amendments provide a sustainable strategy to enhance soil quality in degraded environments while also helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, for example, by improving soil structure, minimizing the use of synthetic fertilizers, and promoting a green economy. This study assessed the comparative effects of two organic amendments— vermicompost leachate and biochar—on the performance of popcorn maize (Zea mays L. var. everta) cultivated in saline soil conditions. Four treatments were evaluated: T0 (Control), T1 (Vermicompost leachate), T2 (Biochar), and T3 (Vermicompost leachate + Biochar), each with 10 replicates arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Although various soil physicochemical, microbiological, and agronomic parameters displayed no significant differences compared to the control, the application of biochar resulted in considerable improvements in soil total organic carbon, the microbial community (mesophilic aerobic bacteria, molds, and yeasts), and increased seed length and diameter. In contrast, vermicompost leachate alone negatively impacted plant growth, leading to decreases in leaf area, stem thickness, and grain yield. Specifically, grain yield declined by 46% with leachate alone and by 31% when combined with biochar, compared to the control. These findings emphasize the superior effectiveness of biochar over vermicompost leachate as a soil amendment under saline conditions and highlight the potential risks of widely applying compost teas in stressed soils. It is recommended to conduct site-specific assessments and screenings for phytotoxins and phytopathogens prior to use. Additionally, the combined application of leachate and biochar may not be advisable given the tested soil characteristics.
Challenges of organic amendments: Impact of vermicompost leachate and biochar on popcorn maize in saline soil
(Preprints.org, 2025-05-09) Rivas, Brenda; Pérez Porras, Wendy Elizabeth; Ortiz Dongo, Luis Felipe; Arévalo Aranda, Yuri Gandhi; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi
Organic amendments offer a sustainable strategy to enhance soil quality in degraded environments, while also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas generation and implementing a green economy. This study evaluated the comparative effects of two organic amendments— vermicompost leachate and biochar—on the performance of Popcorn maize (Zea mays L. var. everta) grown under saline soil conditions. Four treatments were tested: T0 (Control), T1 (Vermicompost leachate), T2 (Biochar), and T3 (Vermicompost leachate + Biochar), each with 10 replicates arranged in a Completely Random Design (CRD). Although several soil physicochemical, microbiological, and agronomic parameters showed no significant differences compared to the control, biochar application led to notable improvements in soil total organic carbon, microbial community (mesophilic aerobes bacteria, molds, and yeasts), and increased seed length and diameter. In contrast, vermicompost leachate alone had a detrimental effect on plant growth, including reduced leaf area, stem thickness, and grain yield. Notably, grain yield declined by 46% with leachate alone and by 31% when combined with biochar, compared to the control. These results highlight the superior performance of biochar over vermicompost leachate as a soil amendment under saline conditions and underscore the potential risks of broadly applying compost teas in stressed soils. Site-specific assessments and screening for phytotoxins and phytopathogens are recommended before use. Furthermore, the combined use of leachate and biochar may not be advisable under the tested soil characteristics.
Chlorella sp. inoculum doses affect ethinylestradiol removal in a wastewater treatment plant in the Peruvian Andes
(Universidade Estadual de Maringá (UEM), Brasil, 2025-06-17) Chávez Collantes, Azucena; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi; Velarde Apaza, Lelie Diana; Campos Ruiz, Joseph; Alva Plasencia, Edin Edgardo; Castillo Rojas, Eisner Will
The microalgae Chlorella sp. have demonstrated efficiency in the removal of pharmaceutical contaminants. However, there is no agreement on the inoculum dose since it depends on the contaminant concentration and other very specific parameters in each case. This study aims to evaluate the effect of Chlorella sp. inoculum doses on ethinylestradiol (EE) removal from wastewater treatment plant effluent in Celendín district of the province of Celendín, Cajamarca region, Peru. Four doses of inoculum (0, 100, 200, and 300 mL) were tested at a 2,1x10⁶ cell∙mL⁻¹ microalgae cell concentration and 4 mg∙L ⁻¹ of ethinylestradiol in photobioreactors. The final concentration of ethinylestradiol was determined after 20 days through High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). It was evidenced that a dose of 300 mL∙L ⁻¹ of Chlorella sp. could remove 96,49% of ethinylestradiol from wastewater, unlike the other tested concentrations, which were below 80,92% removal. It was concluded that at a higher dose of Chlorella sp. inoculum, a higher ethinylestradiol removal percentage was observed in a wastewater sample from a treatment plant in the Peruvian Andes.
Climate, carbon, and soil stability: a key link in coffee-growing landscapes of the Peruvian Amazon
(Frontiers Media S.A., 2026-04-14) Romero Chávez, Lorena Estefani; Hermoza Ayme, Nilton Alexander; Chuchon Remon, Rodolfo Juan; Aldava Pardave, Uriel; Arroyo Isuiza, Rosa Karen; Solórzano Acosta, Richard Andi; Vallejos Torres, Geomar
Introduction: Coffee cultivation in the Central Peruvian Amazon, one of the country's most important production regions, faces increasing challenges from soil degradation and climate change impacts. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the altitudinal gradient on soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks and soil erodibility (K index) in coffee-growing systems. Methods: Three altitudinal zones were established for sampling (0–20 cm depth): zone 1 (900–1200 m.a.s.l.), zone 2 (1201–1400 m.a.s.l.), and zone 3 (1401–1600 m.a.s.l.). Within these zones, physical and chemical soil properties were analyzed, and SOC and soil erodibility (K index) values were calculated. Results: The results revealed a direct and statistically significant relationship between altitude and carbon sequestration capacity. Zone 3 exhibited the highest SOC (63.19 t·ha⁻¹) and organic matter (OM) content (5.49%), compared with zone 1 (37.56 t·ha⁻¹). This difference is attributable to the climatic conditions at higher elevations, characterized by greater precipitation and lower temperatures. Structural equation modeling (SEM) indicated that increasing altitude enhances SOC (b = 0.42), which in turn improves the soil structural stability index (SI) (R² = 0.87) and reduces the K index (b = –0.38). Overall, the findings demonstrate that organic carbon acts as a key mediator between topography, soil texture, and susceptibility to erosion. The altitudinal gradient thus represents a major controlling factor influencing the health and structural stability of coffee soils. Discussion: These results highlight the need to implement site-specific soil management practices, emphasizing intensive conservation strategies in low-altitude coffee-growing systems to mitigate accelerated erosion and ensure long-term production sustainability under changing climatic conditions.