bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of cultivation on Rhizoctonia root rot, cereal cyst nematode, common root rot and yield of wheat in the Victorian Mallee
Authors: Boer RFde , Kollmorgen JF , Macauley BJ , Franz PR , De Boer RF
Published: March 2005

The effects of method, time and number of cultivations on root diseases and yield of wheat were studied in a field experiment, in 1985, on a calcareous sandy loam in the Victorian Mallee. The incidence and severity of rhizoctonia root rot (Rhizoctonia solani) were higher in direct-drilled wheat than in wheat sown after cultivation. Compared with direct drilling, the severity of rhizoctonia root rot in seedlings was reduced by 40% with cultivation 20 weeks before sowing; by 70% with cultivation 1 day before sowing; and by 90% with 2 cultivations, the first at 16 weeks and the second 1 day before sowing. Cultivation generally increased the incidence of common root rot (Bipolaris sorokiniana) but had no significant effects on the severity of damage by the cereal cyst nematode (Heterodera avenae) or the number of nematode cysts produced, compared with direct drilling. The incidence and severity of root diseases, and the number of H. avenae cysts produced, were not significantly different in wheat sown after rotary hoeing than in wheat sown after scarifying. The severity of damage by H. avenae, the number of nematode cysts and the incidence of common root rot were higher (45, 70 and 36%, respectively) when scarifying was done 1 day before sowing, compared with scarifying 20 weeks earlier. Differences in sowing depth probably caused this effect since seed was sown deeper (as indicated by subcrown internode lengths) and plant emergence was less in the latter treatment. The timing and number of cultivations with a rotary hoe, however, did not significantly affect the severity of damage by H. avenae, the number of nematode cysts or the incidence of common root rot. The incidence of common root rot was correlated (r = 0.71) with the subcrown internode lengths, indicating that the deeper the seed was sown the greater the proportion of plants with the disease. Dry weight of seedlings and grain yield were negatively correlated (r = -0.79 and -0.66) with the severity of damage caused by H. avenae. Plant dry weight and grain yield were, however, not correlated with the severity of rhizoctonia root rot or the incidence of common root rot.
Evaluation of Fsub(1) hybrids incorporating the rin (ripening inhibitor) gene to improve the storage life and fruit quality of fresh market tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)
Authors: Nguyen VQ , Ashcroft WJ , Jones KH , McGlasson WB
Published: March 2005

Four new F1 hybrids which incorporate the ripening inhibitor (rin) tomato mutation were compared with standard commercial tomato cultivars, including Flora-Dade, for the fresh market in New South Wales and Victoria. The rin gene, in the heterozygous condition, delayed the start of ripening by a few days, increased the interval between breaker and full ripe from 5 to 7 days compared with commercial cultivars, and increased the storage life of ripe fruits from 28 to 40 days at 20�C. There were no significant differences between the level of red colour developed by the rin hybrids and reference tomatoes; however, the rin hybrid fruits took 4 days longer to reach full red colour. The fruits of rin hybrid were as firm as the reference tomatoes when picked at breaker and stored at 20�C for 6 days. However, rin hybrid fruits were significantly (P<0.05) firmer than those of reference tomatoes when harvested at a full ripe stage. Of the 4 rin hybrids tested, HRAS 87-70, which showed the most promise, was released in February 1990 as 'Red Centre'.
Responses to a long-chain fatty acid supplement fed to dairy cows at two stages of lactation
Authors: Davison TM , Vervoort FP , Duncalfe F
Published: March 2005

A group of 36 Holstein-Friesian cows in a commercial dairy herd were used to test the effects on milk yield and composition of feeding 0.5 kg/day of a rumen-inert fat supplement containing long-chain fatty acids, given in addition to their normal ration. The group was divided into early and mid lactation cows, and the effect of the supplement was evaluated over a 12-week period of grazing predominantly kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestinum) pastures. There was a non-significant (P>0.05) trend to increased milk yield for cows in mid lactation (9% or 2.8 kg milk/kg fat supplement), no response in early lactation, and an overall response of 0.8 kg milk/kg fat supplement for all cows. There was no effect (P>0.05) of fat supplement on milk components. The lack of a milk response in the early lactation group is discussed in relation to the protein content of the diet and changes in liveweight. The varied responses with stage of lactation mean that feeding systems that can easily differentiate stages of lactation for cows would be required in dairies.
The effects of native grass cover, species, herbicide and sowing method on legume establishment on the northern slopes of New South Wales
Authors: Lodge GM
Published: March 2005

The effects of sowing method (direct drilling or broadcasting), level of cover of native grass and pre-sowing herbicide application on pasture legume introduction were evaluated from 1984 to 1987 at a low elevation (425 m) site on the Northern Slopes of New South Wales. Two perennial (Medicago sativa cv. CUF101 and Onobrychis viciijolia cv. Eski) and 3 annual legumes (Trifolium subterraneum ssp. brachycalycinum cv. Clare; M. truncatula cv. Sephi; Vicia villosa ssp. dasycarpa cv. Namoi) were sown each year from 1984 to 1986. Seedling establishment was measured 3-4 months after sowing, and where possible, the dry matter yields of the sown legume were also estimated. Seedling regeneration was measured in 1987 and the yield of legumes sown in 1985 was determined in 1986. All species failed to establish under the dry conditions experienced in 1984. In subsequent years seedling numbers of the annuals were higher than those of the perennials. Direct drilling increased establishment of all species compared with broadcasting. The provision of a large amount of cover by the resident native grasses (4.6-7 t/ha of dry matter, 0.6-0.7 In in height) also substantially increased seedling establishment in cvv. Clare, Sephi and CUFlO1. None of the treatments used were successful in establishing cv. Eski. Herbicide application prior to sowing did not significantly affect seedling numbers in the establishment year but resulted in higher numbers of seedlings regenerating in subsequent years, particularly in cv. Sephi. Seedling regeneration of the annuals was also increased (P<0.05) by direct drilling into moderate or high levels of vegetative cover. Dry matter yields of all sown species except cv. Namoi were low, and the environment was difficult for legume survival and production. This was attributed mainly to the variable rainfall that occurs at this low elevation, while for lucerne high summer temperatures probably affected its performance.
Effect of herbicides on St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum L.)
Authors: Campbell MH , Milne BR , Dellow JJ , Nicol HI
Published: March 2005

The effect of type of herbicide and time and rate of application on the reduction in ground cover of St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) was determined at Orange, New South Wales. In January, April, July and November 1988, 8 herbicide treatments including the currently used glyphosate and picloram + 2,4-D were applied to vigorously growing H. perforaturn, and the reduction in percentage ground cover was recorded in December 1989. Ineffective herbicides (a.i./ha) were tebuthiuron, 0.8-6.4 kg; metsulfuron, 5-20 g; and paraquat + diquat, 0.4 + 0.5 kg. The addition of metsulfuron (2.5 g a.i./ha) to glyphosate (0.9 and 1.8 kg a.i./ha) did not increase the effectiveness of the latter. Effective herbicides (kg a.i./ha) were triclopyr + picloram, 0.6 + 0.2; picloram + 2,4-D, 0.2 + 0.8; glyphosate, 1.8; and triclopyr, 1.92. There was a strong trend for these herbicides to be more effective in January and November than in April and July. Based on price, effectiveness and selectivity, triclopyr + picloram would be preferred to the other herbicides for boom and spot spraying, and glyphosate would be the only herbicide suitable for aerial application prior to sowing improved pastures on non-arable land.
Conservation cropping systems for the semi-arid tropics of North Queensland, Australia
Authors: Cogle AL , Bateman RJ , Heiner DH
Published: March 2005

A farming systems project was commenced in the semi-arid tropics of north-eastern Australia to assess the cropping potential and reliability of a newly developing region. Emphasis was placed on evaluation of conservation cropping systems, since it was expected that these would be the most successful and protective uses of the land. This paper discusses the agronomy of peanuts, maize and sorghum grown under different conservative cropping practices (reduced tillage, no tillage, ley) on the soil (red earth) most likely to be developed for large-scale cropping in the region. Crop yields with all practices were limited by establishment difficulties including high soil temperatures, poor weed control and climatic variability. Reduced tillage was more successful than no tillage due to higher yields in dry years; however, in wet years no tillage produced similar yields. The ley cropping system may have some advantages in this environment for integrated production and resource protection.
Responses to nitrogen, phosphorus and irrigation by grain sorghum on cracking clay soils in central Queensland
Authors: Hibberd DE , Standley J , Want PS , Mayer DG
Published: March 2005

The yield and dry matter (DM) responses to nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and irrigation in sorghum hybrids E57 and Goldfinger were measured near Emerald, Queensland, on a cracking clay soil (Ug 5.12) deficient in N and P. A raingrown experiment received factorial combinations of 0, 25, 50 and 75 kg N/ha as urea, and 0, 10, 20 and 40 kg P/ha as superphosphate. An irrigated experiment received the same rates of superphosphate in conjunction with 0, 50, 100 and 150 kg N/ha and irrigation applied at 80 mm deficit. Plants were sampled on days 20 (floral initiation), 41 (early booting), 55-57 (anthesis) and 142 (grain harvest). Factors affecting yields on a soil type fairly representative of a large area of the cultivated soils of the Central Highlands were, in decreasing order of importance, N, water and P. Goldfinger initially produced higher DM yields than E57, but E57 produced higher grain yields. Mean grain yields for the 2 hybrids from control plots were 1150 kg/ha (raingrown) and 1190 kg/ha (irrigated). Under raingrown conditions, a grain yield asymptote (1600 kg/ha) was reached with 50 kg N/ha, but rates higher than 150 kg N/ha (2700 kg/ha) would be required to achieve maximum yields under irrigation. Responses to P were smaller, with rates of 10-20 kg P/ha (raingrown) producing maximum yields for both hybrids. Phosphorus rates greater than 40 kg/ha would be required to achieve maximum yields under irrigation. Apparent recovery of fertiliser P was significantly (P<0.05) lower at the highest P rate of 40 kg/ha at anthesis in the raingrown experiment. All other P recoveries either at anthesis or in the grain were not significantly (P>0.05) different. Phosphorus recoveries between the raingrown and irrigated experiments showed little difference. Nitrogen, however, showed much higher apparent recoveries in the irrigated experiment, with no significant (P>0.05) differences between N treatments. A month after harvest the only plots on the raingrown site with an increase in soil nitrate were the 75 kg N/ha treatments; residual values from all other treatments were low.
Plant population studies on peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in subtropical Australia. 1. Growth under fully irrigated conditions
Authors: Bell MJ , Harch G , Wright GC
Published: March 2005

Effects of plant density and spatial arrangement on growth and yield responses of 4 peanut cultivars were examined under fully irrigated conditions at Kingaroy, south-eastern Queensland (26�33'S., 151�50'E.). Cultivars represented either the Spanish or Virginia botanical type. Spanish cultivars had either very early (Chico) or early (McCubbin) maturity, while Virginia cultivars had either medium (Early Bunch) or very late (Mani Pintar) maturity. The interaction of plant density (44 000-376 000 plants/ha) with sowing date was assessed in 3 sowings in 1984-85 (S1, 1 November; S2, 5 December; S3, 15 January), with a further sowing in 1985-86 (S4, 21 November). The interaction of plant density and spatial arrangement was assessed in 1985-86. Total dry matter (TDM) and pod yields showed highly significant (P<0.01) linear and quadratic responses to increasing plant density. Cultivars differed in their response to density. McCubbin, Early Bunch and Mani Pintar showed no responses to increased density above 88 000 plants/ha, while maximum TDM and pod yields of Chico were recorded at 352 000 plants/ha. Sowing date had no significant effect on the response of any cultivar to plant density. However, all cultivars except Chico produced significantly less TDM and pod yield in S3, due to cool temperatures and/or frosts terminating growth. A 1 : 1 (square) planting arrangement produced significantly greater pod yields and more TDM than the conventional commercial practice of rows 90 cm apart. Planting in a double-row arrangement (20 cm between 2 rows) based on 90 cm centres produced intermediate pod and TDM yields. A simple model was used to describe the effects of plant density and sowing date on yield, and proved useful for highlighting differences among cultivars and sowing dates. A limitation of the model was a tendency to overestimate pod yield at low plant density in Spanish cultivars, where the harvest index declined at very low plant densities.
The prevalence and severity of diseases in the coastal soybean crop of New South Wales
Authors: Stovold GE , Smith HJP
Published: March 2005

Rainfed soybean (Glycine max) crops in the northern coastal region of New South Wales were surveyed from 1985 to 1987 for the prevalence and severity of diseases. Sixteen diseases were recorded over the 3 seasons, but only rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi), black leaf blight (Arkoola nigra) and bacterial pustule (Xanthomonas campestris pv. glycines) were present each season. Rust was the most significant disease, infecting 50, 20 and 6% of crops in 1985, 1986 and 1987. The severity of rust was related to rainfall and temperature after flowering, with the most severe outbreaks in the higher rainfall area of the lower Richmond Valley. Black leaf blight was also significant and occurred in 39, 10 and 27% of crops in 1985, 1986 and 1987, but in most crops severity was low. The other diseases recorded were downy mildew (Peronospora manschurica), root and stem rot (Phytophthora megasperma f. sp. glycinea), stem canker (Rhizoctonia sp.), pod and stem blight (Phomopsis spp.), anthracnose (Colletotrichum spp.), seedling blight (Rhizoctonia sp.), stem rot (Phytophthora sp.), white mould (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum), flower blight (Botrytis cinerea), leaf spot (Phoma sp.), bacterial blight (Pseudomonas syringae pv. glycinea), mosaic (soybean mosaic virus) and orange bark (not identified). All of these diseases were generally of low prevalence and severity.
Responses of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) to phosphorus fertilisation when grown on a range of soil types
Authors: Hicks LN , Fukai S , Asher CJ
Published: March 2005

Rate-of-phosphorus trials were performed concurrently on 5 contrasting soils (yellow podsolic, lateritic podsolic, podsol, alluvial, krasnozem) in southeastern Queensland, to provide information on the phosphorus (P) requirements of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz). The study also examined the productivity of cassava when grown under conditions appropriate to commercial production. These conditions included the use of mainly infertile soils, with no irrigation after establishment. The yellow podsolic site of low initial P status (Colwell P of 4.1 �g/g) was the most responsive to P application, with yield (dry weight of storage organs) being increased by 170% with 120 kg/ha of broadcast P. Above that rate there were no further significant increases in yield. A strong response (96% yield increase with 10 kg/ha of P) was also obtained on the podsol site (Colwell P of 3.0 �g/g). For the lateritic podsolic and krasnozem sites, which were higher in Colwell-P, the responses to P were not significant, but deficiencies of other nutrients contributed to the lack of response at the lateritic podsolic site. Although the alluvial site was highest in P (Colwell P of 49 �g/g), a 15% increase in yield was obtained with 20 kg/ha of P. Banded P and broadcast P were also compared over most sites, but the differences between the methods of application were generally small. Yields of 9.0-13.6 t/ha were obtained at the optimum rate of P for each site, with the exception of the podsol where yield was only 3.0 t/ha because of low availability of water and nutrients from the sandy profile.
Effect of three cherry rootstocks on the yield and fruiting of four sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) varieties
Authors: Granger AR , Frensham AB
Published: March 2005

Three cherry rootstocks were evaluated at Lenswood, South Australia, for their effect on yield and quality of fruit from 4 sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) varieties. There were no significant differences in total fruit yield, individual fruit weight, proportion of rain-split fruit, or fruit diameter between the seedling Mazzard (P. avium), Mahaleb (P. mahaleb) and Stockton Morello (P. cerasus) rootstocks, with varieties Venus, Stella, Sam and Merton Bigarreau, over 5 years. Yields for rootstocks and varieties followed similar trends over time. In particular, a large reduction in yield occurred in 1988, after a mild winter and unsatisfactory chilling at Lenswood. Although the difference was not statistically significant, Stockton Morello tended to produce fruit of lower weight and smaller diameter than the other rootstocks. In 1989, Stockton Morello produced fruit with a mean weight of 8.9 g, Mazzard 9.68 g, and Mahaleb 9.41 g. The percentages of fruit with a diameter >25 mm were 65, 68 and 51, for Mazzard, Mahaleb and Stockton Morello in the same year. Mahaleb was associated with a greater proportion of rain-split fruit in each year. In 1989, 31% of the total yield of fruit from varieties on Mahaleb was rain-split, compared to 23% on Mazzard and 22% on Stockton Morello. Mean fruit yields in 1989 were about 14 kg/tree for Mahaleb, 11 kg for Mazzard and 12 kg for Stockton Morello; a similar trend occurred in other years. Of the varieties, Sam had least rain-split damage each year, the greatest proportion being 7% in 1987. Venus, an earlier maturing variety, was associated with most rain-split fruit and resulted in 46% damaged fruit in 1989.
Correction of zinc and boron deficiencies and control of phytophthora root rot of avocardo by trunk injection
Authors: Whiley AW , Pegg KG , Saranah JB , Langdon PW
Published: March 2005

Phosphonate at 3 concentrations (7.5, 10 and 20%) was injected into the trunks of avocado (Persea americana Mill.) trees showing advanced symptoms of canopy decline caused by phytophthora root rot. All formulations of phosphonate and potassium phosphonate, including the lower rates of 7.5 and 10%, successfully controlled root rot and resulted in improved tree health. The 7.5% phosphonate treatment permitted the formulation of chemically compatible mixtures containing zinc and boron which, when trunk-injected, increased the concentrations of these nutrients in mature summer-grown leaves. Phosphonate formulations containing 17% zinc chelate or 10% zinc nitrate and injected twice during a growing season, at 15 mL/m canopy diameter, increased leaf zinc concentrations above the critical level of 30 mg/kg DM. However, the inclusion of zinc chelate in formulations substantially increased the time of uptake of the injection compared with the formulation containing zinc nitrate. Phosphonate formulations with 0.9% boron, injected twice during a growing season at 15 mL/m canopy diameter, improved leaf boron concentrations, but they failed to reach the critical threshold concentration of 50 mg/kg DM.
Control of plant parasitic nematodes in sultana grapevines (Vitis vinifera) using nematicides
Authors: Edwards M
Published: March 2005

Two field trials were established to test the efficacy of carbofuran and fenamiphos against root-knot nematode [Meloidogyne javanica (Treub.) Chitwood] and citrus nematode (Tylenchulus semipenetrans Cobb.) in sultana grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.). Single applications of nematicide (10 kg a.i./ha) in November were compared with multiple applications of lower dose rates (2 x 5 kg a.i./ha and 4 x 2.5 kg a.i./ha) throughout the growing season. Root-knot nematodes and citrus nematode populations in the soil were reduced by all treatments. Citrus nematode was controlled by as little as one-quarter of the recommended dose rate for other pests, that is, 2.5 kg a.i./ha compared with 10 kg a.i./ha, which is the recommended dose for control of root-knot nematode in tomatoes. Yield increases at the citrus nematode site were observed in the fourth harvest after initial nematicide application when carbofuran at 10 kg a.i./ha gave significant yield increases. Fenamiphos at 10 kg a.i./ha increased the yield of root-knot nematode infested grapevines in the second harvest after initial treatments. Some phytotoxicity was indicated by reduction in cane weights where carbofuran at 2 x 5 kg a.i./ha and fenamiphos at 10 kg a.i./ha were applied to citrus nematode infested vines.
Trellis effects on yield and fruit quality of five table grape varieties in the Murray Valley
Authors: Taylor BK , Leamon KC
Published: March 2005

A field trial was established in the Mildura district, to compare the effects of trellis type (single T, double T, Y and sloping T) on the yield and fruit quality of 5 table grape varieties (Cardinal, Waltham Cross, Italia, Ruby Seedless and Emperor). Over a 3-year period (1978-80), berry yield proved insensitive to trellis type for most varieties and also as the mean of all varieties in 2 years out of 3; however, the 3 larger trellises led to significantly (P<0.05) increased berry Brix levels, improved red colour levels on Cardinal, Ruby Seedless and Emperor grapes, and higher mean berry weights for Cardinal, Waltham Cross and Italia varieties, compared with grapes grown on the single T trellis. Since differences in Brix, red colour levels and berry size were, generally, not significantly different between the 3 large trellises tested, and the sloping T trellis is simpler and easier to erect, it is concluded that the sloping T trellis is a suitable, cost-effective trellis to use for the production of table grapes in the Murray Valley.
Production from tagasaste (Chamaecytisus palmensis) at four contrasting sites in New South Wales
Authors: Milthorpe PL , Dann PR
Published: March 2005

In 1985, experiments were conducted at 4 localities in south-eastern and central New South Wales, to assess the production potential of tagasaste. The results were disappointing: 2 experiments failed to establish because of soil waterlogging, while production from the other 2 sites was only intermittent. Annual dry matter production did not exceed 3 t/ha at Condobolin or 5 t/ha at Yass. Although survival of established plants was good, production was limited by prolonged dry periods at Condobolin and by low temperatures during winter at Yass. Tagasaste is costly to establish (up to $A500/ha) and difficult to manage. In our environments, conventional pastures or fodder crops which require simpler management would probably out-produce tagasaste at most times during the experimental period.
The effect of rainfall and crop management on take-all and eyespot of wheat in the field
Authors: Murray GM , Heenan DP , Taylor AC
Published: March 2005

The incidence of take-all of wheat, caused by Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici (Ggt), and eyespot, caused by Tapesia yallundae, was examined in a long-term rotation-tillage experiment at Wagga Wagga, N.S.W. Take-all occurred in years of higher August-October rainfall from 1979 to 1984. In years with take-all, soil water in the upper 20 cm was estimated to be above permanent wilting point for the growing season. Eyespot was associated with above-average rainfall during winter and spring and was more prevalent where residues of wheat or grasses were retained. After the severe drought of 1982, take-all developed to high levels in 1983 in wheat that followed wheat, lupins or pasture when stubble was retained, but was reduced in 1984 after lupins. Take-all was reduced in the lupin-wheat rotations by removing stubble through burning or by early incorporation of stubble. Take-all incidence was less in wheat that followed grazed pasture than after mown pasture. Where stubble was retained, Ggt survived on stubble from wheat in 1981, through the drought of 1982, to infect wheat in 1983, but inoculum did not survive on stubble through the wet season of 1983 to infect wheat in 1984. Regression analysis indicated that take-all was negatively correlated with yield but eyespot was not. Take-all reduced yield by reducing kernel mass in 1 year and by reducing kernels per cm2 in 2 other years. Soil water conditions that were associated with take-all development from 1979 to 1984 occurred in 50% of years from 1960 to 1989.
Erratic nodulation and nitrogen fixation in field-grown pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]
Authors: Brockwell J , Andrews JA , Gault RR , Gemell LG , Griffith GW , Herridge DF , Holland JF , Karsono S , Peoples MB , Roughley RJ , Thompson JA , Troedson RJ
Published: March 2005

Following numerous reports of nodulation failures in pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] crops in New South Wales, a series of experiments was conducted in glasshouses and at 6 locations in the field. When inoculated seed was grown in moist vermiculite or in sand beds in the glasshouse, pigeonpea nodulated, and fixed N2, normally; but at 3 sites in the field, we could detect neither nodulation nor N2 fixation, despite adequate inoculation or a population of suitable rhizobia in the soil. At another site there was only sporadic occurrence of effective nodules. Nitrogen was fixed at 2 of the 3 field sites on acid soils, but at 1 site it appeared that nodulation was due to a naturally occurring population of soil rhizobia and not to the inoculant. When comparisons were made, pigeonpea was invariably inferior to symbiotically related legumes, cowpea and adzuki bean, in nodulation and N2 fixation. This inferiority was associated with substantially poorer rhizobial colonisation of pigeonpea rhizospheres. The experimental findings confirmed the anecdotal evidence that pigeonpea is an erratically nodulating grain legume on neutral and alkaline soils.
Productivity and break crop effects of winter-growing oilseeds
Authors: Angus JF , Herwaarden AFvan , Howe GN , Van Herwaarden AF
Published: March 2005

Productivity, water use and nitrogen (N) use of the oilseeds canola, Indian mustard and linseed were compared with those of wheat and oats in a field experiment in the Riverina. In the following year wheat was grown on the same land and the same attributes were measured. In the first year, wheat productivity exceeded that of all other crops in terms of yield, dry matter production, uptake and the production value (expressed in the common units of the mass of glucose assimilated) of grain and straw. There was no association between productivity and water use, but the cereals had greater canopy cover and, presumably, a greater proportion of the water was transpired rather than evaporated from the soil. In the following year the wheat yield varied with the previous crop species in the order Indian mustard > canola > linseed > oats > wheat. The advantage of the oilseeds to the subsequent wheat crop was evident in terms of shoot density from the stem elongation stage. At the time of maturity, wheat following Indian mustard had extracted more soil water than wheat following canola or wheat following wheat. The early growth advantage to wheat following oilseeds was presumed to be associated with less soil-borne disease. The advantage to wheat following linseed did not persist after anthesis. The advantage to wheat following Indian mustard over wheat following canola appeared to be partly due to greater depletion of subsoil water during the later phases of growth.
Effect of potassium supply on cation uptake and distribution in grafted Vitis champinii and Vitis berlandieri x Vitis rupestris rootstocks
Authors: Ruhl EH
Published: March 2005

The effect of different potassium (K) supply levels (1 and 10 mmol/L) on cation uptake and distribution was investigated in a nutrient solution trial using Vitis champinii var. Ramsey and Freedom and V. berlandieri x V. rupestris var. 1103 Paulsen and 140 Ruggeri grafted with Djandjal Kara. While dry matter production was not affected by K supply or rootstock, greater K supply increased K contents in the various plant parts by 25-32%. Vines grafted on Freedom had the highest K content in the scion parts, and those grafted on 1103 Paulsen had the lowest. Potassium and magnesium (Mg) accumulation, expressed as the relative contribution to total cations, clearly distinguished between V. champinii (Ramsey and Freedom) and V. berlandieri x V. rupestris (1103 Paulsen and 140 Ruggeri), with higher K and lower Mg accumulation in vines grafted on V. champinii rootstocks. Results indicate that K accumulation in the scion parts of grafted vines is affected by the genotype of the rootstock.
Chemical control of crown rot in Queensland bananas
Authors: Jones DR
Published: March 2005

The efficacy of benomyl, prochloraz, flusilazole and other fungicides in controlling crown rot, a postharvest disease of bananas, was studied. In experiments with harvested fruit, prochloraz and flusilazole were the most effective fungicides. Benomyl was less effective than prochloraz. In 1 experiment, Fusarium pallidoroseum and a Verticillium sp. were frequently isolated from diseased crowns of untreated fruit. Both fungi were pathogenic and sensitive to prochloraz in vitro, but only F. pallidoroseum was sensitive to benomyl. The Verticillium sp. was consistently isolated from diseased crowns of benomyl-treated fruit. The failure of benomyl to control crown rot adequately in Queensland may be related to the presence of benomyl-tolerant crown rot fungi in the flora of banana plantations. In 2 experiments, prochloraz gave good control of crown rot in fruit stored for extended periods before ripening; however, it failed to give adequate control in a third.
Evaluation of potato cultivars in the greenhouse and field for resistance to powdery scab
Authors: Boer RFde , De Boer RF
Published: March 2005

The reaction of 10 commercial potato cultivars to infection by Spongospora subterranea was evaluated in the field and in the greenhouse. Micropropagated plants were used in the greenhouse and seed pieces were used in the field. The relative susceptibilities of the cultivars when measured in the greenhouse and in the field were comparable. The overall severity of scab on tubers was 8 times higher in the greenhouse than the field. The relative susceptibilities of 3 standard cultivars (Kennebec, Katahdin and Russet Burbank) were consistent over 3 greenhouse trials. When comparing planting material in the greenhouse, the incidence and severity of scab on the progeny of micropropagated plants did not, in general, differ significantly from that on the progeny of seed potatoes. Furthermore, the incidence and severity of scab on tubers of the highly susceptible cv. Kennebec grown in the greenhouse were not affected significantly by type of potting mix (well-drained, compared with poorly drained which inhibited plant growth). Screening potato cultivars for resistance to powdery scab on a small scale in the greenhouse, using micropropagated plants, is suggested as a preliminary to the evaluation of cultivars in the field.
Register of Australian Winter Cereal Cultivars: Triticum aestivum ssp. vulgare (Bread Wheat) cv. Cunningham
Authors: Brennan PS , Martin DJ , Eisemann RL , Mason LR , Sheppard JA , Norris RG , Smith GD , Uebergang RW , The D , Keys PJ
Published: March 2005

No abstract available.
Register of Australian Winter Cereal Cultivars: Triticum aestivum ssp. vulgare (Bread Wheat) cv. Perouse
Authors: Brennan PS , Martin DJ , Eisemann RL , Mason LR , Sheppard JA , Norris RG , Smith GD , The D , Keys PJ
Published: March 2005

No abstract available.
Register of Australian Winter Cereal Cultivars: Triticum aestivum ssp. vulgare (Bread Wheat) cv. Reeves
Authors: Reeves J
Published: March 2005

No abstract available.
Register of Australian Winter Cereal Cultivars: Triticum aestivum ssp. vulgare (Bread Wheat) cv. Sunbri
Authors: Brown G , Ellison FW , Mares DJ
Published: March 2005

No abstract available.
Carcass weights of cattle in relation to breed, sex, age, region of origin and season
Authors: Taylor JF , Ladds PW , Goddard ME
Published: March 2005

Effects on carcass weights of region of origin, season and year of slaughter, breed, sex, age and pregnancy status were examined for 4229 cattle slaughtered in selected Australian abattoirs in 1973 and 5708 cattle in 1977-78. For non-pregnant cows slaughtered in 1973, the relationship between carcass weight and presence of cyclic activity of the ovaries was examined at slaughter. Data from abattoirs in Rockhampton, Mackay and Townsville are also presented on carcass weights of about 641 000 cattle killed from January 1977 to November 1979. In 1977-78, at abattoirs in northern, central and eastern Australia, carcass weights of slaughtered bulls averaged 269 kg, steers 263 kg and cows 188 kg, compared with mean carcass weights of 263, 276 and 186 kg for all bulls, steers and cows killed in 3 northern Queensland abattoirs during 1977-79. Cows slaughtered in north-eastern Australian abattoirs in 1973 averaged 160 kg. After adjusting for breed, sex and age differences, carcass weights of cattle slaughtered in 1977-78 differed by region of origin, with greater weights from subtropical than from northern tropical and coastal regions; and by season of slaughter, with lowest weights being recorded in spring. Carcass weights of cows from tropical regions and slaughtered in 1973 increased by 10 kg (British breed), 32 kg (Brahman) and 69 kg (British x Brahman), as age increased from 2 to 5 years. With increased age beyond 5 years, carcass weights of these cows decreased. Conversely, carcass weights of British breed cows reared in subtropical regions and slaughtered in 1977 increased by 37 kg throughout the 2-12 year age range. After adjusting for breed, age, season and regional differences, mean carcass weights of non-pregnant, cycling cows and cows grouped according to trimester of pregnancy were not different. Carcass weights of cows which were non-pregnant and non-cycling were 12 kg less than cows which were non-pregnant but cycling. Cycling prevalence in Brahman cows exceeded those of British breed or British x Brahman cows from northeastern Australia, when compared at the same age and carcass weight. Age had no effect on cycling prevalence when cows were compared at the same carcass weight.
The susceptibility to body strike under high rainfall conditions of flocks selected for and against fleece rot
Authors: Raadsma HW
Published: March 2005

The susceptibility of Merino sheep to fleece rot and body strike was examined in a high risk environment. The ewes were a representative sample from 2 selection lines selected solely for increased (susceptible) and decreased (resistant) expression of hogget fleece rot in a low risk environment with the aid of induced fleece rot. A total of 244 fleece rot and body strike observations were made over 3 years. Ewes from the resistant flock had significantly fewer fleece rot lesions (P<0.05) of less severity (P<0.01) than ewes from the susceptible flock. The prevalence of body strike was high in all 3 years, with 11.3% affected in the resistant flock and 20.0% in the susceptible flock. The prevalence of fleece rot lesions was strongly correlated (P<0.001) with the prevalence of body strike. Results confirm the close phenotypic and genetic relationship between resistance to fleece rot and body strike, and show the potential of selection for reduced fleece rot in a dry environment to improve resistance to body strike in a wet environment.
Effects of genotype, diet and sex on backfat depth in pigs measured physically at different carcass sites and ultrasonically at different liveweights
Authors: McPhee CP , Daniels LJ
Published: March 2005

Pigs of both sexes, from a line selected for low backfat depth and an unselected line, were grown on 3 diets. Backfat depths were measured by ultrasonics at 3 liveweights during growth and by optical probe and scale at 5 sites on and off the midline of the carcass after slaughter. Ultrasonics and carcass measurements were equally effective at detecting the effects of line, diet and sex on fat depth. Average fat depth was higher in females than males, higher in the unselected line than in the selected line, and increased with dietary energy-lysine level. The difference between sexes, lines and diets increased with liveweight. Changing diets affected carcass fat depths at different sites of measurement uniformly, but both line and sex varied in their effects on fat depth at different sites.
Evaluation of new cultivars of triticale as dual-purpose forage and grain crops
Authors: Andrews AC , Wright R , Simpson PG , Jessop R , Reeves S , Wheeler J
Published: March 2005

Two newly registered cultivars of triticale, Tiga and Empat, were compared with existing commercial cultivars of triticale, cereal rye and forage oats, for grain yield and dry matter production. Their performance was evaluated at Armidale, New South Wales, over 3 years with varying defoliation regimes (uncut to grain yield, cut in late autumn, cut in autumn and winter, and cut in winter only). Phenological observations confirmed that Tiga and Empat were midseason cultivars, intermediate between Coolabah and Blackbutt oats. Autumn and winter forage production and organic matter digestibility of Tiga and Empat were equal to those obtained from Cooba and Blackbutt oats. Grain yields (up to 4.0 t/ha) of the highest yielding triticale cultivar (Empat) were equal to, or greater than, the best oats cultivar (Blackbutt). Generally, the highest winter growth rates, dry matter yield at maturity and grain yield were recorded from uncut plots, except in the early oats cultivar Coolabah which, in 1 experiment, lodged in spring if left undefoliated through autumn and winter. Cutting only in autumn had small effects (negative) on grain yields, but cutting in both autumn and winter reduced total dry matter yields at maturity by 30% and grain yields by 50%. Cutting only in winter resulted in higher vegetative forage yields than a double cut (autumn and winter), but the single winter cut subsequently produced lowest dry matter yields at maturity. The high grain yields of triticale were linked to rapid spring growth. Harvest indices of triticale cultivars were generally lower than those of the oat cultivars. The results indicate the potential of triticale, especially cv. Empat, as a dual-purpose forage and grain crop.
Variation in virulence within the cool temperature biotype of Stemphylium vesicarium (Wallr.) Simmons, a lucerne leaf spot pathogen
Authors: Irwin JAG , Bray RA
Published: March 2005

This paper confirms the existence of variation in virulence within the cool temperature biotype of Stemphylium vesicarium, the causal agent of a lucerne leaf spot disease. The new strain shows high levels of virulence on an experimental line of lucerne (SS2) that was developed by selecting for resistance to S. vesicarium within the winter-active cultivar Sequel. The experimental line UC1250 (semi-dormant), which was bred for resistance in the U.S.A. and was resistant upon initial testing in Australia, remained relatively resistant to the new race, as did a selection (TS2) made from cv. Trifecta (semi-dormant). UC1249 (winter-active), which was also selected for resistance to S. vesicarium in . the U.S.A., was relatively susceptible to the new race.
The economic evaluation of crop research proposals
Authors: Page JR , Hunter MN , Easdown W
Published: March 2005

This paper describes a simple evaluative procedure that scientists can use to measure the relative profitability of crop research proposals. The procedure used a series of questions about the expected benefits and costs of projects. The resultant cash flow budgets were then subjected to a standard investment evaluation procedure called discounted cash flow analysis. The measures of profitability used were the net present value (NPV) and the internal rate of return (IRR). An evaluation of 17 project proposals for legume research in central Queensland gave IRR values ranging from negative to 147%. The NPV ranged from -$A189000 to +$14.5 million. This range of profitability is probably typical of research proposals for rural industries. It demonstrates the worth of evaluating proposals so that only the most profitable projects are funded. This procedure was easy to use and was well accepted by most scientists. The inclusion of economic evaluations, as described here, with applications for rural research funds is expected to strengthen the case for and improve the chances of funding.
Determination of critical nitrogen concentrations of zucchini squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) cv. Blackjack grown in sand culture
Authors: Huett DO , White E
Published: March 2005

A gamma x quadratic response surface model was used to predict the growth rate over the 14-week growth period of zucchini squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) cv. Blackjack in sand culture with nitrogen (N) levels of 2, 7, 14, 29 and 43 mmol/L. Growth rate relative to maximum was plotted against tissue N concentration every 2 weeks, to derive diagnostic petiole sap; leaf nitrate-N and leaf total-N in youngest fully opened leaf, youngest fully expanded leaf and oldest green leaf; and total N in bulked leaf samples. Critical concentrations corresponding to 90% maximum growth rate for deficiency and toxicity are presented. Petiole sap and leaf nitrate-N were much more responsive than leaf total N concentrations over the 2-14 mmol N/L range where positive growth responses were recorded. At 2 mmol N/L, plants were severely N-deficient and growth rate was low (1.6 g/plant.week at fruit set). Tissue nitrate concentrations were negligible, while leaf total N concentrations exceeded 2.6%. Salt toxicity occurred at 29 and 43 mmol N/L, and at the highest N level, tissue N concentrations were sometimes reduced so that concentration ranges for adequacy and toxicity overlapped. Critical tissue N concentrations always exceeded (P<0.05) levels recorded in plants receiving a marginally deficient N level (7 mmol/L). Critical petiole sap and leaf nitrate-N concentrations were much more variable between sampling periods than leaf total N concentrations. Adequate concentration ranges (values between critical concentrations for deficiency and toxicity) were determined for the pre-fruit harvest (weeks 2-6) and fruit harvest (weeks 8-14) growth stages where values were common for consecutive weeks within each sampling period. It was only possible to determine adequate concentrations over the entire growth period for bulked leaf total N (4.30440% prefruit harvest and 4.15-4.45% fruit harvest). Concentrations of potassium (K), phosphorus and sulfur were affected (P<0.05) by N application level, with the largest effect being recorded for K. This confirms the importance of optimising N supply when determining critical levels of these nutrients for zucchini squash. Determination of petiole sap nitrate-N concentrations in the field can be used to distinguish between a deficient and an adequate N supply, but the large variation in values between sampling periods renders this technique less reliable than leaf total N. Tissue N concentrations which exceed critical deficient levels can be interpreted as such because they were recorded when growth was depressed at high N levels. This will rarely occur under field conditions.
The influence of bud state of bit planting material on shoot emergence of banana cv. Williams in North Queensland
Authors: O'Farrell PJ , Daniells JW , Doogan VJ
Published: March 2005

The time from planting to shoot emergence of 3 classes of planting material of banana cv. Williams was studied in the field in North Queensland. Two classes of bits (0.55-1.6 kg), 1 with large lateral buds (forward bits) and the other with small lateral buds (backward bits), and 1 class of suckers (0.55-1.75 kg) were compared. Regressions were fitted using a Mitscherlich equation that described the spread in the population of the time to emergence of the 3 classes of planting material. There was 96% shoot emergence from forward bits and 71% from backward bits by the time of replanting (85 days after planting). The time to 50% of maximum shoot emergence (mean � s.e.) was 31 � 0.2 days for forward bits and 38 � 0.4 days for backward bits; the time to shoot emergence of the former was less variable. Suckers produced 100% shoot emergence by the time of replanting, took the least time to 50% of maximum shoot emergence (29 � 0.1 days) and were the least variable of all classes in time to shoot emergence.
The effect of nutrition in mid pregnancy and ewe liveweight change on birth weight and management for lamb survival in highly fecund ewes
Authors: Fogarty NM , Hall DG , Holst PJ
Published: March 2005

The effect of moderate undernutrition in mid pregnancy on lamb birth weight and survival of single- and multiple-bearing ewes is reported. A total of 1220 ewes of 3 crossbred types with different fecundity, Booroola Merino x Dorset (BD), Trangie Fertility Merino x Dorset (TD) and Border Leicester x Merino (BLM), were examined over 2 years. The treatments were low (L) and high (H) nutrition at pasture for 4 weeks from about day 75 of pregnancy. Ewe liveweight of the L group at the end of the treatments was 5 kg lower in 1984 and 8 kg lower in 1985 (P<0.01) than the H group. The differences were smaller by late pregnancy and post-lambing. The L treatment increased (P<0.01) birth weight by 0.16 kg in 1984 but had little effect in 1985. Litter size had the greatest effect on birth weight (P<0.01). Ewe crossbred type and lamb sex effects were also significant (P<0.01), although they tended to be reduced for higher order births. Nutritional treatment had no effect on gestation length. Ewe liveweight at joining and weight gains before and after the treatment period significantly affected birth weight and accounted for the large difference in birth weight between years (0.7 kg). Ewe weight gain during the treatment period in mid pregnancy had no significant effect on lamb birth weight. Nutritional treatment in mid pregnancy had no effect on lamb survival. Litter size significantly affected lamb survival, although inclusion of birth weight in the model reduced the effect. Weather conditions, as measured by chill index, significantly (P<0.01) affected lamb survival in 1984 but accounted for less variation in 1985 (P<0.05). Lamb survival for ewes was ranked BLM > TD > BD. Maximum survival was achieved at birth weights of 4-5 kg from BD and TD ewes and 5-6 kg from BLM ewes. The L treatment reduced (P<0.01) ewe greasy fleece weight by 0.15 kg but did not affect staple strength. Plasma glucose concentration at the end of treatment was lower (P<0.01) for L ewes, but there was no difference between L and H ewes in late pregnancy. Glucose declined with increasing fetal number. Plasma B-hydroxybutyrate concentration was lower for the H group than for L, and also for BLM than TD and BD ewes (P<0.01).