Examinando por Materia "Peru"

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Agricultural research and extension: trends and challenges in Peru and around the world (2015–2025)
(Frontiers Media S.A., 2025-12-17) Olano Camán, Yadhira Milagros; Cruz Luis, Juancarlos Alejandro; Alvarez Robledo, Yeltsin Abel; Chuquibala Checan, Beimer; Arce Inga, Marielita; Tafur Culqui, Josué; Fernandez Zárate, Franklin Hitler; García Frias, Larry Dustin; Taboada Mitma, Víctor Hugo; Ganoza Roncal, Jorge Juan; Tineo Flores, Daniel; Goñas Goñas, Malluri
Agricultural extension, understood as producer-oriented guidance, is vital for driving technology adoption and sector development. This systematic review (2015–2025) examines global and national trends in agricultural research and extension, witha particular focus on Peru's policy landscape. Internationally, the U.S.A., China, and Europe are identified as leaders in scientific innovation, while Brazil excels regionally through its integrated approach to research, innovation, and extension. Agricultural research is still centralized in Lima on a national level, but expanding capability in areas like Amazonas, Junín, and Puno emphasizes how urgently decentralization is needed. By comparing national research output with MIDAGRI’s Agrarian Development Plan 2021–2030 and relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the study reveals strong thematic alignment in innovation, food security, and climate adaptation. Crucially, however, significant shortcomings are identified in governance and the effective inclusion of small-scale producers. Based on these findings, this study recommends strengthening decentralized R&D investment, fostering interregional research networks, and promoting strategic collaboration among universities, local governments, and rural communities. Ensuring the active participation of producers in the innovation cycle is essential for building a more inclusive, resilient, and effective agricultural extension system aligned with sustainable development goals.
Agro-morphological characteristics and sensory evaluation of native peruvian chili peppers
(David Publishing Company, 2016-09-28) Patel, Kirti; Calderon, Rosa; Asencios, Edgard; Vilchez Palomino, Dioliza; Marcelo Salvador, Mavel Nansi; Rojas, Rosario
In this work, 31 native Peruvian chili peppers were evaluated for their agro-morphological characteristics and sensory attributes. The descriptive sensory analysis (DSA) was used to evaluate the 31 chili pepper samples based on their acid, bell pepper, sweet, tomato, apple, citrus, fruity, herbal, oregano and passion fruit attributes. The data obtained from the DSA enabled the grouping of these 31 chili peppers into six groups based on their different sensory attributes, such as fruity, bell pepper and herbal. The most abundant group (12 of the 31) had the bell pepper, apple, herbal, fruity and sweet attributes. Each group contained different species and different physical appearances, indicating that species or different forms of chili pepper do not define that sensory attribute. Considering the fact that Peruvian peppers are in high demand, the results achieved would be useful for growers, producers and chefs, as well as for further breeding activities.
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.
Challenges and opportunities of genetic improvement in alpacas and llamas in Peru
(Wageningen Academic Publishers, 2018-02-16) Gutierrez, G.; Gutierrez, J.P.; Huanca Mamani, Teodosio; Wurzinger, M.
Alpacas and llamas play an important role in the livelihood of many rural families in the High Andes of Peru. The census of 2012 indicates a population of 3 million alpacas and 746,269 llamas. Both species are kept in extensive, low-input, pasture-based systems in altitudes between 3800 m and up to 5000 meters above sea level. Smallholders keep mixed herds of sheep, alpaca and llamas as a mitigation strategy against fluctuating market prices. Since 1997 the Peruvian Ministry of Agriculture manages a genealogy registry for alpacas and llamas, but so far the up-take rate by farmers and inscription rate of animals is low. The national research organisation INIA (Instituto Nacional de Innovación Agaria) runs an ex-situ in-vivo conservation program for coloured alpacas (21 different colours) and llamas. INIA is also doing research in the area of embryo transfer, artificial insemination and controlled mating. There is no national breeding program for alpacas, but all individual initiatives from private companies, NGOs and farmers´ cooperatives aim to improve fibre quality by reducing fibre diameter. At the moment these various local programs are not connected. There is also no national breeding program in place for llamas. Little attempts have been made to set up functional breeding programs for this species. Furthermore, there is no a national conservation plan in place. However, INIA have just started the formulation phase of a National Bank for Agrobiodiversity Conservation that include ex situ in vitro conservation of SACs. The Peruvian Ministry of agriculture prioritizes in the recently launched national livestock development plan for 2017 – 2027 alpacas and llamas. Support for the development of breeding plans is mentioned as one action line to increase productivity in both species.
Characterization and typology of goat production systems in the Southern Highlands of Peru
(Veterinary World, 2025-01-29) Sessarego Dávila, Emmanuel Alexander; Trillo Zarate, Fritz Carlos; Godoy Padilla, David José; Palomino Guerrera, Walter; Cruz Luis, Juancarlos Alejandro
Background and Aim: Characterizing local animal production systems is crucial for sustainable livestock development. This study aimed to characterize the diversity of goat production systems in the Highlands of Chincha province, Ica, Peru. Materials and Methods: A structured questionnaire was used to gather data from 82 goat breeders in three districts: San Juan de Yanac, San Pedro de Huacarpana, and Chavín. Factor analysis of mixed data and hierarchical classification analysis were conducted to identify typologies of goat production systems using R version 4.4.2. Results: Four distinct goat production types were identified, primarily differentiated by feeding location and deworming frequency. Type 2 (41.5%) was the most prevalent, characterized by grazing on breeders own land, minimal milk production (<1 liter/day, 91.2%), and a focus on cheese and goat kid sales (70.6%). Breeders were predominantly women, with limited resources and extensive management systems. Across all types, mixed breeding was common, and economic reliance on livestock and agriculture prevailed. Conclusion: Despite their diversity, all goat production systems shared extensive management practices and resource constraints, resulting in low productivity. These findings highlight the need for targeted public policies to improve productivity and sustainability in goat farming within the Ica region.
Digital mapping tool: a territorial approach for containment of Fusarium wilt TR4 in Peru
(International Society for Horticultural Science, 2023-05-16) Clercx, L.; Cozzarelli, M.; Balarezo Camminati, D.; Rojas Llanque, Juan Carlos
Fusarium wilt caused by the tropical race 4 (TR4) of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense is known as the most serious and devastating banana disease. In April 2021 the presence of TR4 was detected on a plot in Chocán, in the district of Querecotillo in the Chira Valley, Peru. Organic banana cultivation for export is located in this valley, between Sullana and Piura, in Morropón and Lambayeque; altogether, 10,000 ha. There are two dozen mid-sized banana farms; but the export sector is mainly made up of approximately 9,000 small producers, with average plot sizes of 0.5-1.0 ha, organized in around 35 producer associations and cooperatives. To a great extent, the banana sector depends on flood irrigation. Harvesting is done by dozens of harvesting teams, who cut and carry banana bunches on their shoulder to one of the hundreds small packing stations, walking their shortest way through the banana plots. The export banana sector in Peru is small and young, with only an incipient institutional development and leadership. Typical biosecurity protocols to prevent entrance of the fungus are designed for farms; and need ‘re-invention’ for the highly fragmented context of Peru. All these characteristics make the sector extremely vulnerable to further spreading of TR4. Between April 2021 and June 2022, 82 TR4 outbreaks were detected by the phytosanitary agency SENASA in the districts of Querecotillo, Salitral and Marcavelica. Together with the data processing company Opus Insights, and in a broad alliance with other companies and institutions, the importer of Fairtrade and organic banana AgroFair started a project to carry out detailed aerial mapping, as tool for implementation of risk analysis and biosecurity measures with a territorial approach. The digital maps were completed in July 2022. We will examine the first practical experiences with this tool, formulate recommendations and indicate institutional conditions favorable to develop strategies for coping with TR4.
Distribution Models of Timber Species for Forest Conservation and Restoration in the Andean-Amazonian Landscape, North of Peru
(MDPI, 2020-09-25) Cotrina Sánchez, Dany A.; Barboza Castillo, Elgar; Rojas Briceño, Nilton B.; Oliva Cruz, Manuel; Torres Guzmán, Cristóbal; Amasifuen Guerra, Carlos Alberto; Bandopadhyay, Subhajit
The Andean-Amazonian landscape has been universally recognized for its wide biodiversity, and is considered as global repository of ecosystem services. However, the severe loss of forest cover and rapid reduction of the timber species seriously threaten this ecosystem and biodiversity. In this study, we have modeled the distribution of the ten most exploited timber forest species in Amazonas (Peru) to identify priority areas for forest conservation and restoration. Statistical and cartographic protocols were applied with 4454 species records and 26 environmental variables using a Maximum Entropy model (MaxEnt). The result showed that the altitudinal variable was the main regulatory factor that significantly controls the distribution of the species. We found that nine species are distributed below 1000 m above sea level (a.s.l.), except Cedrela montana, which was distributed above 1500 m a.s.l., covering 40.68%. Eight of 10 species can coexist, and the species with the highest percentage of potential restoration area is Cedrela montana (14.57% from Amazonas). However, less than 1.33% of the Amazon has a potential distribution of some species and is protected under some category of conservation. Our study will contribute as a tool for the sustainable management of forests and will provide geographic information to complement forest restoration and conservation plans.
Estimation of aboveground biomass and carbon sequestration in a cocoa agroforestry system using UAV-LiDAR in northwestern Peru
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-10-08) Atalaya Marin, Nilton; Sanchez Fuentes, Teiser; Goñas Goñas, Malluri; Tineo Flores, Daniel; Taboada Mitma, Víctor Hugo; Cabrera Hoyos, Héctor Antonio; Cruz Luis, Juancarlos Alejandro; Ganoza Roncal, Jorge Juan; Gómez Fernández, Darwin
Accurate estimation of biomass and carbon in agroforestry systems is essential to assess their contribution to climate change mitigation and to improve their management. In this context, UAV-mounted LiDAR technology emerges as a fast, accurate, and non-destructive alternative for the structural characterization of cocoa agroforestry systems. This study aimed to estimate and analyze structural parameters, mainly tree height and diameter at breast height (DBH), as well as to calculate aboveground biomass and carbon sequestration in a cocoa agroforestry system, using LiDAR data obtained with a DJI Matrice 350 RTK UAV equipped with a Zenmuse L2 sensor, complemented by automatic tree segmentation in LiDAR360 and the application of species-specific allometric equations. The results showed a 93 % segmentation efficiency, with accuracies of 0.93 and 0.99 for DBH and height estimations, respectively. The evaluated plot, located at the Yanayacu Experimental Center (Jaén, Peru) and covering an area of 0.58 ha, had stored 15,492.5 kg of aboveground biomass and 7746.25 kg of aboveground carbon, with Mangifera indica and Cocos nucifera contributing more than 80 %. Consequently, this approach demonstrates the potential of UAV-based LiDAR to generate accurate and detailed information on system structure, enabling optimized management of high-biomass species and the development of more efficient and sustainable management strategies.
Evaluation of Heat-sensitive Micronutrients in Fresh, Sun-dried and Solar-dried Capsicum Varieties Grown in Peru
(University of Hohenheim, 2011-10) Nagle, Marcus; Jankowsky, Birgit; Peña Pineda, Karla Mónica; Ríos Lobo, Llermé; Jäger, Matthias; Nohr, Donatus; Müller, Joachim
In this study, the vitamin and carotenoid content of three local varieties and six accessions of a gene bank in Peru were identified. It was observed that drying in the traditional way was almost impossible under Peruvian winter conditions (coast) and resulted in microbiological degradation, whereas almost all solar dryer samples reached the aimed moisture content. Dried capsicum with higher carotenoid and vitamin content provides products of better nutritional and economic value, which will contribute to food security.
Evaluation of the Flood Area in the Presence of Climate Change: Ravine La Ronda Case, Ricardo Palma, Peru
(Horizon Research Publishing, 2024-11-13) Perez Campomanes, Giovene; Perez Campomanes, Maria; Carbajal Llosa, Carlos Miguel
In the district of Ricardo Palma, human settlements are located near streams, which are seriously affected during the heavy flooding season (rainy season), which increases due to the presence of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the global effect of climate change. To get to know the flood zone 09 de Octubre - La Ronda, Ricardo Palma, software was applied to obtain the area of influence to study, and to know 10.5 software was applied to obtain the area of influence to study, and to know the rainfall record of the National Water Service. Meteorology and Hydrology of Perú(SENAMHI) for a continuous period of 27 years of maximum daily rainfall, with the HEC HMS 4.9 software the maximum design flows for different return periods were obtained, and the HEC RAS 6.2 software to obtain the flooding area. To find out the support of the authorities in the presence of the Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), and the global effect of climate change, a survey was carried out among the population, obtaining that 14.43% had the appropriate conditions to mitigate the impacts of the flooding due to intense rains, 22.93% received help in the presence of the El Niño phenomenon, and for 20.75%, there was a response from their authorities to the needs of the population in the presence of an emergency, and no changes that benefit the population were distinguished. The maximum design flows were calculated for a return period of 10 and 100 years, which vary between 31.7 m³/s and 61.2 m³/s, and that for a design flow of 61.2 m³/s, the flooding area of 0.25 km² was obtained.
Exploration of underutilized crop diversity of Capsicum peppers in their primary center of diversity in Bolivia and Peru
(2014-06) Van Zonneveld, Maarten J.; Ramírez, Marleni; Williams, David E.; Petz, Michael; Meckelmann, Sven W.; Avila, Teresa; Bejarano Martinez, Carlos; Ríos Lobo, Llermé; Libreros, Dimary; Scheldeman, Xavier
The genus Capsicum is a highly diverse complex of domesticated and wild species that displays abundant variation in its main center of domestication and diversity in Bolivia and Peru but that remains under-researched. New collecting expeditions undertaken in 2010 by the Instituto Nacional de Innovación Agraria (INIA) in Peru and the Centro de Investigaciones Fitoecogenéticas de Pairumani (CIFP) in Bolivia have significantly increased the size of the collections. INIA Peru now maintains 712 accessions of the five domesticated species, making it one of the largest and most diverse national collections of native Capsicum pepper varieties in the world. The collection in Bolivia contains 492 accessions, including the five domesticated species, four wild species, and one wild botanical variety of a domesticated species. We report on the identification of promising native Capsicum germplasm for potential use in the development of differentiated products. Identification of promising material representative of native Capsicum diversity in both collections followed several steps: (1) Identification of a core collection of nearly 100 accessions per country representing the different species and their geographic distribution. Dried samples of these accessions were biochemically screened for commercially interesting attributes including capsaicinoid content, polyphenols, antioxidant capacity, carotenoids, lipid content and color; (2) Based on results of the biochemical screening, sub-sets of 44 Bolivian and 39 Peruvian accessions were selected, representing the different species and variation in biochemical attributes; and (3) The selected materials were grown in different environments to identify the agro-ecological conditions were they best express the special properties of commercial interest. The biochemical screening and agromorphological characterization and evaluation revealed that Capsicum accessions from Bolivia and Peru have unique combinations of functional attributes, confirming that a wealth of commercially valuable properties can be found in Capsicum’s primary center of diversity. This study was financed by GIZ.
First report of Raoiella indica (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) in Peru
(Systematic and Applied Acarology Society, 2020-10-02) Escobar Garcia, Héctor Alonso; Andrade, Daniel Junior
El artículo informa el primer registro del ácaro Raoiella indica en el Perú. Este estudio, publicado en la revista Systematic and Applied Acarology documenta la presencia de este ácaro, perteneciente a la familia Tenuipalpidae conocido por su impacto en cultivos agrícolas en el Perú.
Forest land-use change affects soil organic carbon in tropical dry forests of the Peruvian Amazon
(CSIC (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas), 2024-10-22) Vallejos Torres, Geomar; Lozano Chung, Andi; Ordoñez Sanchez, Luis; Garcia Gonzales, Patricia; Gaona Jimenez, Nery; Mendoza Caballero, Wilfredo; Macedo Cordova, Wilder; Saavedra Ramirez , Jorge; Baselly Villanueva, Juan Rodrigo; Marin, Cesar
Aim of study: The loss of forest cover is a global problem that alters ecosystems, contributing to carbon emissions. This study measured the soil organic carbon (SOC) at different soil depth in tropical dry forests of the Huallaga Central in the Peruvian Amazon. Area of study: San Martín Region, Peruvian Amazon. Material and methods: A total of 24 plots of 100 m² were selected in primary (~200 years), intervened (~50 years since intervention), and deforested forests (10 years ago), with 120 soil samples collected across five depths. Soil texture (hydrometer), bulk density (cylinder method), SOC content, SOC density, and erodibility (K parameter) were calculated. Main results: SOC content in the 0-20 cm soil horizon was 79.5±21.3 t ha-¹ for the primary forest, 58.5±11.8 t ha-¹ for the intervened forest, and 41.8±10 t ha-¹ for the deforested forest. A soil erodibility K of 0.065 was observed for primary forests and 0.076 and 0.093 for intervened and deforested forests. In average, the SOC density obtained in this study was 7.6±5.1 t ha-¹ in the primary forest, 6.2±3.6 t ha-¹ in the intervened forest, and 4.7±2.7 in the deforested forest. Research highlights: Primary forests had the highest SOC content and SOC density, followed by intervened and deforested forests, while the opposite pattern was found for soil erodibility. These patterns were especially marked in the first 40 cm of soil depth.
Genetic diversity and population structure of alpacas (Vicugna pacos) in Peru: A microsatellite analysis
(MDPI, 2025-05-16) Peralta, Wilber; Nestares Palomino, Agustin; Gamarra Reyes, Julyssa del Pilar; Rojas, Miler; Sullca, Juan; Estrada Cañari, Richard
This study evaluated the genetic diversity and population structure of Vicugna pacos (Huacaya alpacas) from two contrasting breeding contexts in Junin, Peru: the genetically managed herd of INIA’s Santa Ana Experimental Station (Suitucancha) and the community-based herd of Huayre, where natural, unregulated mating practices are common. An external reference population from Quimsachata was also included. Genetic diversity parameters revealed high allelic richness and heterozygosity within all populations. Analyses of molecular variance (AMOVA), principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), Bayesian clustering, and phylogenetic reconstruction indicated moderate genetic differentiation between Suitucancha and Huayre, likely influenced by the use of selected males under controlled mating in Suitucancha versus natural, unregulated group mating in Huayre, which facilitates broader gene flow. The Quimsachata group displayed distinct genetic characteristics, likely reflecting limited gene flow due to its role as a germplasm conservation nucleus under closed reproductive management. These results reflect how differences in reproductive management may influence population structure in alpacas.
Genomic analysis for cattle breeding improvement, progress and future perspectives in Peru: a review
(Taylor & Francis Group, 2025-08-31) Figueroa Venegas, Deyanira antonella; Romero Avila, Yolanda Madelein; Heredia Vilchez, Lizeth A.; Poemape Tuesta, Carlos Augusto; Alvarado, Wigoberto; Quilcate Pairazaman, Carlos Enrique
Genomics offers a promising solution by enabling precise cattle selection and breedingto boost productivity and sustainability. In Peru, livestock plays a crucial role in theeconomy and food security. Despite its importance, the sector faces significantchallenges, including poor pasture quality, limited conservation practices, a shortage oftrained professionals, minimal use of genomic tools, and an incomplete understandingof the genetic potential of both native and introduced breeds. Since the 1940s, Peruhas advanced in genetic improvement through artificial insemination, improved semenpreservation, the establishment of a National Semen Bank, and the introduction of newbreeds. Key developments have included embryo transfer, in vitro fertilization, andpioneering cloning efforts. Future perspectives for livestock genomics in Peru involveexpanding bioinformatics capacity, improving genomic infrastructure, and integratinggenomic selection into national breeding strategies. This review discusses the history,current status, challenges, and future perspectives of livestock genomics in Peru.
Genotyping-by-sequencing reveals a high number and quality of single nucleotide polymorphisms in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) from the Peruvian Andes
(John Wiley & Sons Inc., 2023-10-05) Borja Lozano, María Victoria; Vigil Santillán, Bianca Estefani; More Montoya, Manuel J.; Morón Barraza, Jonathan A.; García Serquén, Aura Liz; Gutiérrez Reynoso, Gustavo; Yalta Macedo, Claudia Esther
Guinea pigs are a major source of animal protein for Peruvian Andean families. Despite the economic and cultural relevance of guinea pigs, their genomic characterization has been scarcely addressed. Genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) has emerged as an affordable alternative to genotyping of livestock and native animals. Here, we report the use of GBS for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) discovery of traditionally raised guinea pigs from six regions of the Peruvian Andes and one group of breeding animals. The paired-end (2 × 150 bp) sequencing of 40 guinea pig DNA samples generated a mean of 6.4 million high-quality sequencing reads per sample. We obtained an average sequencing depth of 10× with an 88.5% mapping rate to the Cavia porcellus reference genome. A total of 279 965 SNPs (102 SNPs/Mbp) were identified after variant calling and quality filtering. Based on this SNP set, we assessed the genetic diversity and distance within our selected guinea pig populations. An overall average minor allele frequency of 0.13, an observed heterozygosity of 0.31, an expected heterozygosity of 0.35, and an F-value of 0.1 were obtained, while the SNP-based neighbor-joining tree suggests a closer genetic relationship between individuals from geographically close locations. We showed that GBS is a cost-effective tool for SNP discovery and genetic characterization of Peruvian guinea pig populations. Therefore, it may be considered as a suitable and affordable tool for genomic characterization of poorly studied native animal species.
Integrated pest management in Peru
(CABI Publishing, 2003) Palacios Lazo, María; Lizárraga Travaglini, Alfonso; Velásquez Ochoa, Edwin Ricardo; Carranza Hernández, Enrique; Segovia, Isaías
The successful Peruvian cotton IPM program, begun in the 1950s, has now been extended to various other countries. Currently, IPM in export crops such as cotton, citrus, sugarcane, mango and asparagus has improved marginal profits for Peruvian producers. In crops for domestic consumption such as potato, IPM has improved the food supply for the Andean population. In addition, it has reduced the risk of pesticide exposure, pesticide residues in food and in the environment. Potato IPM has also socially impacted the resource-poor farmers on Peruvian mountains.
Low seed viability and germination in Polylepis flavipila hinder forest restoration: The role of seed mass and maternal effects
(Elsevier B.V., 2024-12-05) Huayta Hinojosa, L. David; Quispe Melgar, Harold Rusbelth; Lagones Poma, Katherine Lucero; Llacua Tineo, Yashira Stefani; Ames Martínez, Fressia Nathalie; Renison, Daniel
Seed physiological quality is usually determined by the interaction between genetics and the mother tree’s environment, as well as by intrinsic characteristics, such as seed mass. In the Andean highlands, massive sapling production for forest restoration projects is constrained by seed availability and quality. There, species of the genus Polylepis dominate the remnant forests. The associations of seed viability with seed mass and maternal effects were evaluated in P. flavipila, a threatened tree species endemic to the Peruvian Andes. The characteristics and environments of 18 mother trees from two sites were measured, and seed quality was assessed in three tests. Seed mass was 3.49 ± 1.76 mg (range: 0.5–16 mg) and showed the greatest variability within mother trees, followed by variability among trees and among sites. Viability rates, standard germination and greenhouse germination (2.06 ± 1.35 %, 0.59 ± 0.89 % and 0.64 ± 1.11 %; respectively) were low at both sites. These results were attributed to the presence of seeds with non-viable or absent embryos. Seed viability increased with seed mass and mother tree height, and was positively associated with number of seedlings (r = 0.56). The deficient seed viability and germination found in P. flavipila are the lowest reported for the genus. The low seed physiological quality detected is a risk factor that exacerbates the species’ degree of threat, posing a challenge for sapling production. The reported associations of P. flavipila seed viability with seed mass and maternal char acteristics and environment may guide the selection of better seed quality and serve as a basis for future studies on the challenges and limitations of the reproductive biology of this species
Molecular tools against the illegal exploitation of the threatened Pacific seahorse Hippocampus ingens Girard, 1858
(ELSEVIER, 2021-06-12) Marín, Alan; Alfaro, Ruben; Villegas Llerena, Claudio; Reyes Flores, Lorenzo Eduardo; Alvarez Jaque, Irina Beatriz; Robles, Christian; Ingar, Claudia; Yzásiga Barrera, Carmen Gabriela; Calado, Leonardo L.; Zelada Mázmela, Eliana
The high demand for syngnathid species in the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) trade is drastically affecting seahorse populations worldwide. Powdered seahorse not only represents the main material for the preparation of remedies in either TCM or folk medicine but is also being used to facilitate smuggling and avoid customs authorities in different countries. Here, we present the first primer set and standardized real time quantitative PCR (qPCR) protocol designed for a fast, accurate, sensitive, and reliable identification of one of the most threatened fish species in the world, the Pacific seahorse Hippocampus ingens, using DNA traces from powdered material. Our protocol efficiently detected quantities as low as 0.85 pg of seahorse DNA, showing a high specificity even in the presence of DNA from other non-target fish species. The qPCR protocol reported herein may be utilized as a powerful tool to monitor the illegal domestic trade and international trafficking of H. ingens, not only in poaching hotspot countries such as Ecuador and Peru but also in transit and final market destinations such as Hong Kong and China. In addition, we show photographic evidence of seahorse extraction and trade in northern Peru and southern Ecuador, highlighting the need for increased efforts to protect the Pacific seahorse.
Morphometric evaluation of guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) in Southern Peru
(Learning Gate, 2024-07-19) Quispe Condori, Dennis; Huacani Pacori, Ferdynand Marcos; Mamani Paredes, Javier; Mamani Cato, Ruben Herberht
The aim of this study was the morphometric evaluation of guinea pigs in southern Peru. The study was carried out at the Agrarian Experimental Station Illpa (AESI) of the National Institute of Agrarian Innovation (NIAI) in Puno at 3824 meters above sea level. 120 guinea pigs were used (females n = 60 and males n = 60) with an average age of 22 days. The morphometric characteristics evaluated were: body weight (BW), chest circumference (CC), abdominal perimeter (AP), neck perimeter (NP), head length (HL) and head width (HW). To evaluate the effect of sex on morphometric characteristics, a completely randomized design was used. To determine the equation that best predicts body weight, stepwise regression was used, and correlations between morphometric characteristics were obtained using Pearson's correlation. The results show that the sex factor does not significantly influence BW, CC, AP, NP, HL, and HW (p≥0.05); likewise, the equation that best predicts the body weight of the guinea pigs was: BW = -530.50 + 21.98(CC) + 12.72(AP) + 10.16(NP) + 57.23(HW), with R2 = 84%. Pearson correlations between morphometric characteristics were of high magnitude, positive, and statistically significant (p<0.001). It is concluded that in conditions of the Peruvian highlands, the sex factor does not influence the morphometric characteristics. It is also possible to predict body weight from CC, AP, NP, and HW, and the correlations were high and positive.