Ingeniería Agronómica-Pregrado

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://dspace-test.ucuenca.edu.ec/handle/123456789/322

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Análisis de los datos obtenidos durante la campaña de seguimiento y monitoreo de las moscas de la fruta en cuatro (4) cantones de la provincia del Azuay en los años 2020, 2021 y 2022
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2025-11-05) Piedra Guaman, Sandra Maricela; Larriva Coronel, Walter Iván
This research was conducted with the objective of analyzing the data obtained during the campaigns of monitoring and follow-up of fruit flies in the cantons of Santa Isabel, Girón, Paute and Guachapala, in the province of Azuay, during the years 2020, 2021 and 2022. The research, applied and with a quantitative approach and descriptive, was based on the use of McPhail and Jackson traps, installed by the National Fruit Fly Management Program of AGROCALIDAD. Weekly data on captures, species present and host crops were collected and analyzed at. Among the main results, it was found that the population fluctuation of the pest varies significantly according to the canton and the year, with Santa Isabel and the year 2022 presenting the highest levels of infestation. Seventeen species of flies were identified, with Ceratitis capitata and Anastrepha fraterculus being the most abundant. The McPhail trap was most effective, capturing 86% of the individuals. In addition, by means of cluster analysis, preferential hosts were determined such as mango in Santa Isabel, avocado in Guachapala and orange in Girón. It is concluded that the dynamics of fruit fly populations is influenced by climatic factors, species diversity and the presence of specific hosts.
Efecto de un hongo micorrízico en el desarrollo inicial de vitro plantas de Trichoceros antennifer in vitro y ex vitro
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2025-10-28) Castro Añazco, César Augusto; Peña Tapia, Denisse Fabiola
Fungus-orchid associations are known to stimulate germination in orchid species. However, limited information is available regarding the effects of these associations once orchids have reached the seedling stage under in vitro conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of inoculating Ceratobasidium, a fungus known to promote the germination of Trichoceros antennifer, on the early development of seedlings of the same species. To achieve this, several growth parameters were assessed, including root size and number, leaf count, plant height, fresh weight, and dry weight. Additionally, the presence of pelotons in the roots of inoculated seedlings was recorded. The results demonstrated that under in vitro conditions, Ceratobasidium inoculation significantly enhanced seedling development. In contrast, under ex vitro conditions, the fungal inoculation did not produce statistically significant effects. These findings suggest that in vitro inoculation with Ceratobasidium may be a promising strategy for improving early orchid development. Further studies are recommended to evaluate plant adaptation to substrate conditions and subsequent growth stages following in vitro inoculation.
Implementación de sistemas silvopastoriles con balsa (Ochroma pyramidale) y cáñaro (Erythrina edulis) en la comunidad Plan de Milagro – Limón Indanza
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-25) Molina Cuji, Ronny Alexander; Iñamagua Uyaguari, Juan Pablo
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the economic, technical, and social aspects of implementing silvopastoral systems with Balsa (Ochroma pyramidale) and Cáñaro (Erythrina edulis) in the Plan de Milagro community, Limón Indanza. The methodology was based on the establishment of a silvopastoral system on a 5,000 m² plot, applying a contour line design with a multi-row alley planting arrangement. Plant survival and growth were monitored over a six-month period, recording both direct and indirect costs. Additionally, surveys were conducted with local cattle farmers to assess their perceptions of these systems. Results showed that cáñaro had a survival rate of 92%, whereas balsa had a 56%. Regarding plant growth at six months of age, balsa reached an average height of 8 cm, while cáñaro achieved 40 cm in the same period. The total cost for implementation and maintenance over one year was $1,209.49 for 5,000 m², equivalent to $2,418.98 per hectare in this specific study. Direct costs represented the majority of total expenses, followed by losses related to forage protein production and phytosanitary control applied to the crop. Surveys indicated that although farmers were unfamiliar with the term “agroforestry,” they were aware of similar practices and expressed willingness to adopt these techniques if adequate technical support were available. It is concluded that silvopastoral systems represent a viable option for sustainable livestock management; however, their adoption requires technical training and financial incentives to overcome perceived barriers.
Evaluación de diferentes concentraciones de fertirrigación en cultivo de nardos (Polianthes tuberosa L.) en la finca “Los Abuelos” Sayausí – Ecuador
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-11) Loja Pacho, Teresa del Carmen; Zea Dávila, Pedro René
The tuberose, Polianthes tuberosa L., is an ornamental plant that is propagated by means of bulbs, it is well known in the world for its fragrance and cut flower, however, its cultivation time is a limiting factor for flowering. Therefore, this research was carried out in order to evaluate different fertigation concentrations in the cultivation of tuberose. For planting, confined beds with a fertigation system were implemented. A completely randomized design (CRD) with 4 treatments and 3 replications was used. The study variables were: stem length, stem caliber, leaf length, number of flowers, percentage of chlorophyll and time of sprouting of flowers. Fertilizer application was carried out during the vegetative stage (induction, stem elongation and inflorescence development) to determine the effect on the flowering stage. The results indicated that: treatment 4 (+50% of the concentrations recommended in the literature) obtained the best averages in stem length (89 cm), stem caliber (0.7 mm), leaf length (21 cm) and 21 flowers. The time to flower bud break was better with treatment 3 (recommended concentrations in the literature), which took 67 days. With the percentage of chlorophyll, it was shown that the amount of chlorophyll between treatments is directly related to fertilization. In conclusion, the application of correct fertilizer concentrations at the right stage is a key factor to improve production, yield and crop cycles.
Diversidad y abundancia de malezas presentes en pasturas de las zonas ganaderas en la comunidad de Chuguin grande de la Parroquia Ingapirca del Cantón Cañar
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-09) Sotamba Morocho, Elsa María; Palacios Valdiviezo, Manuel Alfonso
The study on the diversity and abundance of weeds in the pastures of the Chuguin Grande community in the Ingapirca parish, located in the Cañar canton, Ecuador, was aimed at determining the variety of species present in the region's livestock areas. A statistical sampling methodological approach was used, which included the delimitation of the study area and the installation of sampling plots to collect representative botanical samples. The analyses carried out allowed the identification of 17 families and 27 species of weeds, with dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) being the most abundant species. The results also indicated a higher density of weeds in the lower altitudinal levels, suggesting a direct influence of the environment on the proliferation of these plants. Diversity indices such as Shannon's and Margalef's were calculated, which highlighted the great variability in the distribution of weeds in the different Agricultural Production Units (APUs). The study concluded that knowledge of weed diversity and distribution is essential for efficient pasture management, since these plants can compete for vital resources with crops and affect livestock productivity.
Detección del cambio de cobertura arbórea mediante el uso de imágenes satelitales Sentinel 2 para dos zonas de estudio de la Amazonía ecuatoriana y colombiana
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Calle Quintuña, José Andrés; Flores Zapata, Diego Eduardo; Lupercio Novillo, Rosa Lucía
Deforestation and forest degradation are advancing at an alarming rate across the globe. According to the United Nations, the highest net loss rates are occurring in South America. This study evaluated the use of Sentinel satellite imagery to detect and analyze tree cover changes in two Amazonian micro-watersheds: the Caño Blanco River (Colombia) and the Pan de Azúcar River (Ecuador), over the period 2018 - 2024. Land cover classes were defined according to the context of each country: gallery forest, heterogeneous agricultural areas, water bodies, and open areas for Colombia; and forest, pasture, regenerating pasture, water bodies, and populated areas for Ecuador. Image classifications were performed using the Random Forest algorithm, and validation was conducted using confusion matrices based on field data and high-resolution PlanetScope imagery, yielding overall accuracies ranging from 91.33% to 97.92% and Kappa indices between 0.84 and 0.96. In Colombia, gallery forest showed a slight expansion (from 36.08% to 39.40%) while agricultural areas slightly decreased. In Ecuador, forest cover increased from 49.58% to 53.63%, while pastures declined from 48.52% to 43.03%. These trends indicate processes of natural regeneration, partly driven by the presence of protected areas. The classification model demonstrated high robustness in detecting land cover change patterns, validating the effectiveness of optical sensors and machine learning algorithms as tools for forest monitoring in densely wooded regions.
Evaluación de métodos de desinfección para el establecimiento in vitro de explantes de joyapa (Macleania rupestris)
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Mori Moscoso, Salomé; Peña Tapia, Denisse Fabiola
Macleania rupestris is a wild fruit belonging to the Ericaceae family. Its fruit is a globular berry with good nutritional qualities, making it potentially attractive for commercial cultivation. However, the lack of an appropriate protocol for propagating this species is one of the obstacles preventing its use as a commercial crop. The efficacy of a fungicide and a foliar fertilizer in cleaning and inducing sprouting in Macleania rupestris cuttings was evaluated. In vivo treatment with fungicide significantly reduced fungal contamination in the cuttings compared to the control treatment. Furthermore, application of foliar fertilizer to the cuttings more than doubled the sprouting percentage compared to the control. For in vitro establishment of explants, six disinfection treatments were evaluated, with the most effective being treatments that included hypochlorite and 1% povidone-iodine, both without including fungicide in the culture medium. In vivo treatment with the fungicide had a positive influence on the production of fungus-free explants, but not when the fungicide was included in the culture medium, as it could not control fungal contamination in vitro. Regarding contamination, in addition to fungi, bacteria were present in all treatments. These two contaminants are a major problem to control during the in vitro establishment of Macleania rupestris.
Evaluación in vitro y en campo de la patogenicidad de Moniliophthora roreri en mazorcas de cacao de la variedad Ramilla, en un período de 60 días
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-08) Ruiz Álvarez, Zayetzi Anabel; Sánchez Guzmán, Fátima Anabel; Castro Quezada, Patricio Salvador
Cocoa faces several phytosanitary challenges that affect its yield and quality, especially moniliasis, caused by the fungus Moniliophthora roreri that causes serious damage between 30% and 100% of the fruits. As a short-term solution to this problem, different clones such as Ramilla or CCN-51 have been developed to ensure the survival of the Ecuadorian cocoa industry. In this context, this research seeks to generate valuable information on the behavior of the fungus in the field of pathogenicity and its impact on the crop, considering that there are few studies on the subject, for which two scenarios were proposed, one in the field and another in vitro where 4 treatments were applied, differing in the time that elapsed after the sporulation of the fungus, that is to say 15, 30 and 45 days after sporulation, each one with 5 repetitions, obtaining as results that the time of sporulation that the fungus has at the moment of infection influences its pathogenic capacity. The treatment with the youngest fungus (T1), presented greater severity in the colonization of the host, compared to the other treatments, both in vitro and in the field, in terms of survival and competition with other microorganisms, the treatment that showed greater effectiveness was treatment T3, because the more mature the spores, the better they tolerate damage and changes in their environment.
Evaluación de los efectos de la fertilización foliar con micronutrientes en el cultivo vertical de Lactuca sativa mediante índices espectrales
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Alvarez Idrovo, Kevin Alejandro; Calle Quezada, Israel Bernardo; García Zumalacarregui, Jorge Alejandro
Vertical farming emerges as a viable solution to space shortages, population growth, and limited resources by using urban-adapted production structures that optimize water, energy, and nutrient use while delivering fresh, safe food. This study evaluated the effect of foliar micronutrient applications in a vertical hydroponic system, testing five weekly treatments: 0 g/L, 0.5 g/L, 1 g/L, 1.5 g/L, and a micronutrient solution at 0.5 mL/L. Although plant development progressed steadily, the key morphological traits for commercialization did not differ significantly among treatments. A relationship between aboveground growth and root development was observed, but it was not consistent across all treatments. Multispectral indices revealed physiological variations in the crop, helping to assess overall plant health. While RGB sensors proved useful, they fell short compared to sensors that include the near- infrared (NIR) band. In terms of production efficiency, the vertical system was effective for hydroponic cultivation, achieving optimal Brix levels and high planting densities at competitive unit costs. Combining non‑destructive monitoring technologies with targeted foliar fertilization offers an efficient, sustainable strategy with great potential to boost urban crop yields by optimizing both input use and real‑time physiological monitoring.
Identificación de árboles nativos de importancia para la avifauna local y su potencial uso en paisajes ganaderos de Limón Indanza
(2025-08-05) Llivichuzhca Bermeo, Lorena Elizabeth; Martinez Padilla, Vanneza Berenice; Iñamagua Uyaguari, Juan Pablo
Native trees provide essential habitats for diverse species of flora and fauna; therefore, this study analyzes the interaction between native trees and local avifauna in Limón Indanza canton, Ecuador, with the objective of identifying tree species⁷ of ecological importance and evaluating their potential in cattle ranching landscapes. Surveys were applied to ranchers and local experts to gather information on the most recognized bird and tree species, as well as their ecological interactions. The results show significant local knowledge, although limited in terms of distinguishing between native and exotic species. Key species such as Inga edulis, Psidium guajava and Vismia tomentosa were identified, highlighted by their high frequency of interaction with frugivorous and nectarivorous birds. As for birds, the study population identified 22 species, with Rupicola peruvianus being the most recognized, followed by Penelope montagnii. In addition, a morphological characterization and a viability test of the seeds of these species was carried out, where Psidium guajava presented greater viability followed by Inga edulis, confirming its potential for restoration programs and silvopastoral systems.
Evaluación del prendimiento de tres tipos de injerto en Prunus persica (durazno) en el Cantón Paute
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) López Bayolima, Adriana del Cisne; Parra Vásquez, Karen Marisol; Díaz Granda, Lourdes Elizabeth
The peach (Prunus persica) is a fruit species of great global importance, valued for its organoleptic properties. In Ecuador, the province of Azuay, especially the area of Paute, stands out as a key production region, constituting an important source of income for farmers. However, the production of this fruit has not been optimally enhanced due to limitations such as low productivity and deficiencies in management practices, leading to a reliance on imports from countries like Chile and Peru. In response to this situation, the present project was carried out in the canton of Paute, Zhumir sector, with the objective of evaluating the graft take rate of three types of grafts (English, side veneer, and cleft grafting) on peach plants, using the Criollo variety as rootstock and the Conservero Amarillo variety as grafting material. The variables evaluated were: graft take rate at 30 days, shoot diameter, shoot height, and number of leaves at 90 days after the grafting process. The experimental design used was a Randomized Block Design (RBD), with 3 treatments and 3 replications. Although no statistically significant differences were found, the results indicated that the cleft graft showed the highest take rate at 90% after 30 days, with an average shoot diameter of 2.27 mm, height of 29.4 cm, and 20 leaves per shoot. For this reason, this grafting method is the most effective and suitable option for its application in peach rootstocks in the Zhumir sector, Paute.
Estudio del contenido de nutrientes en la savia del pecíolo de Solanum lycopersicum L en invernadero de Guachapala
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Brito Guamán, Tania Maribel; Cabrera Villa, Patricia Alexandra; Bermúdez, Fernando Gerardo
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a crop of great economic and nutritional importance. In the Guachapala-Azuay canton, its greenhouse production faces limitations due to nutritional deficiencies caused by continuous soil use, inadequate fertilization management, and the lack of technical analysis. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize these deficiencies and determine the relationship between nutrient levels in the petiole sap and soil. A completely randomized block design (RCBD) was used with three greenhouses as treatments. Samples of leaves and soil were collected and analyzed for N, P, K, pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter, bulk density, and texture. The data were processed using descriptive statistics, normality tests, and correlation coefficients (Pearson or Spearman). The analysis revealed that nitrogen (N) showed adequate levels in most samples, but phosphorus (P) presented mild deficiencies in several greenhouses. Potassium (K), on the other hand, showed excesses in most cases. When analyzing the relationship between nutrients in the sap and soil, a significant correlation was found between nitrogen levels (r = 0.584, p = 0.0462), indicating a moderate relationship. No significant correlations were found for the other variables. These results provide key information to optimize nutritional management and improve the quality and yield of tomato crops in greenhouses, emphasizing the importance of adjusting fertilization according to the crop’s phenological stage.
Evaluación del potencial de uso de la cascarilla de café (Coffea sp.) para la sustitución parcial de turba en sustratos de semilleros de brócoli (Brassica oleracea) y lechuga (Lactuca Sativa)
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Illescas Chalco, Jannina Evelyn; Chica Martínez, Eduardo José
In the present work, the potential use of coffee husks (Coffea sp.) as a partial substitute for peat in the preparation of substrates for broccoli (Brassica oleracea) and lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seedlings was evaluated. The research was carried out in a greenhouse of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences of the University of Cuenca, where substrates were prepared with different proportions of coffee husks (25%, 50% and 75%) in substitution of peat and compared with a commercial peat substrate. The results of the physical and chemical analyses indicate that the incorporation of coffee husks significantly improves water retention, porosity and cation exchange capacity. On the other hand, the results showed that the seedlings developed in the combinations with 25% and 50% coffee husks presented higher yields. However, in the 75% coffee husk combination, a reduction in germination rate and initial seedling development was observed. In addition, coffee husks as a partial substitute for peat turned out to be more expensive. This work also shows that coffee husks can be a viable alternative for horticultural production; it also addresses the problem of agricultural waste management, analyzing the alternative of partial substitution of peat, promoting a more responsible agriculture aligned with the principles of sustainability.
Evaluación de la técnica Structure from Motion para estimar parámetros de arquitectura arbórea
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Sigua Vizhco, Byron Vinicio; Iñamagua Uyaguari, Juan Pablo
Photogrammetry based on the Structure from Motion (SfM) technique presents itself as a viable and accessible alternative to methods such as LiDAR for forest inventories, allowing three-dimensional reconstruction using common cameras at lower cost and with greater flexibility. This study evaluated the applicability of aerial and terrestrial photogrammetry, using drones and mobile phones, as well as developing a simple and functional workflow. Five treatments were applied: T0 (direct field measurement using non-destructive methods), T1 (capture with iPhone LiDAR sensor), T2 (aerial photographs with an RGB drone), T3 (terrestrial photographs with a mobile phone), and T4 (aerial photographs with different configurations). The variables analyzed included total height, crown height, stem volume, crown volume, crown area, diameter at breast height (DBH), and aboveground biomass. In both types of photogrammetry, results showed that there is no single optimal model for all variables; thus, the selection of the most appropriate model depends on the specific parameter to be estimated. In aerial photogrammetry, Model 1 showed the best performance in stem volume, DBH, and aboveground biomass; Model 2 was more accurate for total height, crown height, and crown volume; while Model 3 stood out in calculating crown area. In terrestrial photogrammetry, Model 3 was characterized by higher point density and precision in crown height and DBH; Model 4 excelled in total height; Model 1 in crown volume, crown area, and stem volume; and Model 2 in aboveground biomass. The developed workflow allowed effective estimation, with statistically significant differences observed only in aboveground biomass among treatments. In conclusion, the SfM technique constitutes a precise, viable, and methodologically robust alternative to traditional methods for forest inventories, especially in contexts where optimizing resources without compromising result quality is a priority.
Eficiencia de tres herbicidas post emergentes para controlar Cyperus rotundus
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Flores Chuñir, Carmen Janneth; Tene Velecela, Sandy Gabriela; Larriva Coronel, Walter Iván
Cyperus rotundus is considered one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-control species in agricultural systems due to its high capacity for reproduction through underground structures. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of three post-emergent herbicides in controlling Cyperus rotundus and to conduct an analysis of the variable costs associated with each treatment under study. A randomized block design was used in this study, consisting of four treatments: T1 (Control), T2 (Bispyribac sodium), T3 (Metsulfuron- methyl), and T4 (Mesotrione + Nicosulfuron). The herbicides were applied using the recommended commercial doses for each product. Monitoring was conducted over a 90-day period, with data recorded twice per week, using the following variables: number of live leaves, number of dead leaves, total number of leaves, number of shoots, number of bulbs, and plant height. Data analysis showed a lack of normality in the recorded data, and the Kruskal-Wallis test confirmed significant differences among the treatments (p < 0.05). Treatment T3 (Metsulfuron-methyl) achieved a 100% mortality rate of the weed under study, unlike treatments T2 and T4, which reached mortality rates of 2% and 30% respectively. Based on the Perrin method, the cost per hectare of applying treatment T3 was efficient at $4.26, making it a technically and financially viable alternative for managing this species.
Rol de paisajes Ganaderos en la conservación de la fauna silvestre adyacente al Área de Conservación Municipal Tinajillas Río Gualaceño
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Albarracín Lozano, Jonnathan Josué; Iñamagua Uyaguari, Juan Pablo; Payo Payo, Ana
Agricultural expansion and resource overexploitation are leading to forest fragmentation, which disrupts the food chain and consequently impacts wildlife. In Ecuador, approximately 48% of the area in cantons like Limón Indanza is covered by pastureland. A significant challenge lies in developing strategies that balance productive activities with conservation in areas bordering protected zones. Despite this, there's a lack of research evaluating the role of livestock systems in wildlife conservation. This study aimed to assess this role in áreas adjacent to the Tinajillas-Río Gualaceño Municipal Conservation Area (ACMTRG) in Limón Indanza, Morona Santiago province. Wildlife monitoring data was collected over three months using 18 camera traps. These sites spanned forest, forest-pasture edge, and pastureland, later mapped using drone flyovers. Forests exhibited the highest species richness (26 species, averaging 10), compared to edge (5) and pasture (4.5) land uses. The most frequently sighted species across all areas were pumas (Puma concolor, 13 sightings) and mountain tapirs (Tapirus pinchaque, 17 sightings). Although pastures showed roughly half the wildlife presence of forests, they can still be considered important for conservation. Therefore, it's crucial to design management strategies that sustain and enhance productive activities without jeopardizing wildlife survival.
Efecto de la cobertura arbórea sobre el microclima y la productividad de pastos en zonas de pastizales en Victoria del Portete
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Benítez Arrobo, Karla Lisbeth; Jadán Quituizaca, Alex Steven; Iñamagua Uyaguari, Juan Pablo
Livestock farming has established itself as a fundamental pillar for economic and sociocultural development. However, this activity is threatened by climate change, causing a reduction in the availability of fodder for feeding the cattle. It has been suggested that the incorporation of trees in pastures, known as silvopastoral systems, can be considered a strategy for climate change adaptation. This study, conducted at the Irquis farm, Universidad de Cuenca, evaluated the impact of tree cover on the microclimate and forage productivity of a kikuyu grass (Pennisetum clandestinum) pasture. The experiment consisted of a completely randomized block design (CRB), with three treatments: Open field plots (T1), Middle zone (T2), and Under shade (T3), with four repetitions. Microclimatic variables such as temperature, relative humidity, photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), and precipitation were recorded. Forage productivity was measured in terms of relative growth rate, grass height, yield, chemical composition, and NDVI. Results on the influence on microclimate show that the presence of trees reduced temperature by 2°C during the day and increased it by 0.5°C at night compared to full-sun pastures. NDVI was higher in T1 and T2, as was forage production (kgDM/m2). Regarding variables related to pasture development and quality, T3 (under shade) presented higher values of plant height and mineral concentration. These results indicate that the presence of trees in pastures has contradictory effects. Although biomass production decreases, it is possible that this adverse effect are counteracted by better pasture quality and favorable microclimate conditions for animal comfort.
Evaluación de extracto de nogal como método preventivo y/o curativo de Botrytis cinerea en cultivo de Fragaria x ananassa var Monterrey
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Bautista Moscoso, Juliana Fatima; Suárez Lazo, Lilian Cristina; Larriva Coronel, Walter Iván
Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) is a high-value crop, but highly susceptible to fungal diseases such as Botrytis cinerea, which significantly affects fruit production and quality during pre- and postharvest stages. Due to the excessive use of synthetic fungicides, an ethanolic extract from walnut leaves (Juglans neotropica) is proposed as a natural alternative. This study evaluated five concentrations of the extract (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) applied using both preventive and curative methods, under laboratory and field conditions. The results demonstrate that the walnut extract exhibits effective antifungal properties against Botrytis cinerea. In the laboratory, mycelial growth inhibition was observed, with the preventive 15% and curative 10% treatments being the most effective. In the field, curative applications at 15% and 20% significantly improved fruit development (weight, polar and equatorial diameter), highlighting their potential to aid recovery in already infected plants. However, the preventive treatment at 10% was the most consistent and effective in reducing disease incidence and severity over time. Overall, the 10% preventive treatment stands out as the most balanced option, providing phytosanitary protection without compromising fruit quality, while the 20% curative treatment offers a promising strategy for restoring plant development after infection. Both approaches can be used complementarity, depending on the application timing and the crop's health status.
Detección temprana de antracnosis foliar en plantas de fréjol (Phaseolus vulgaris) mediante análisis espectral visible
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Guallpa Duy, Steven Alexander; Villamagua Vergara, Gabriela Carolina
Plant diseases cause significant economic losses in agriculture. In Ecuador, the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is a key crop for food security and sustainable production. However, it faces threats such as foliar anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, which can reduce yields by up to 95% in humid, mountainous regions like Azuay. Early detection of this disease is essential for implementing effective control measures and minimizing production losses. Although various diagnostic methods exist, many are costly or slow, limiting their adoption in resource-constrained settings. This study aimed to evaluate the application of visible spectral analysis for the early detection of foliar anthracnose in bean plants using RGB images captured with mobile devices (Samsung A11 and Tecno Spark 20), based on three vegetation indices: MPRI, MGRVI, and VARI. A total of 25 inoculated leaflets and 25 control (non-inoculated) leaflets were photographed over five days post-inoculation. The first non-visible spectral symptoms appeared 72 hours after inoculation, increasing progressively in the following days, unlike the control group, which showed no signs of disease. No significant differences were found among the indices used, but there were differences between the devices: the Samsung A11 stood out for a higher number of detections, while the Tecno Spark 20 excelled in quantifying diseased area in the later stages of sampling. Additionally, the underside of the leaf showed greater sensitivity to symptom detection than the upper side. These findings support the use of visible spectral analysis with conventional cameras as an accessible and efficient tool for the development of automated early detection systems for fungal diseases in food crops.
Evaluación de un sistema de reutilización dual biofiltro-huerto para biorremediación de agua empleando sustratos intercambiables como alternativa viable para cultivar especies hortícolas
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-05) Jácome Aucay, Pablo Ismael; Ochoa Méndez, Juan Esteban; García Zumalacarregui, Jorge Alejandro
Water scarcity and pollution pose serious challenges to agriculture, mainly due to the excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides. In Cuenca, Ecuador, monitoring by ETAPA has confirmed the presence of such contaminants, highlighting the need for sustainable remediation solutions. This study evaluated a dual-use biofilter-garden system for the treatment of wastewater and its viability in horticultural production. Three treatments were tested: T0 (commercial substrate), T1 and T2 (mixtures of gravel, sand, clay, rice husk, coconut fiber, pumice, peat, and charcoal), in a completely randomized design with three replications, using simulated wastewater. Water quality parameters (pH, EC, COD, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, potassium) and substrate parameters (OM, C/N, NO₃, P₂O₅, K₂O) were monitored for 20 days, while lettuce growth was assessed over 42 days. T2 showed the highest pollutant removal efficiency, reducing total nitrogen (1 mg/L), total phosphorus (6.83 mg/L), and COD (230 mg/L), approaching the limits set by TULSMA. T2 also retained more nitrates (22.34 ppm), while T1 released more phosphorus (0.74 ppm). Regarding plant growth, T0 achieved the highest height (8.4 cm) and fresh weight (6.19 g), with 100% survival in T0 and T1. The results indicate that the dual biofilter-garden system is a viable option for sustainable water remediation and horticultural production. T2 stood out for its water treatment capacity, although further improvements in substrate nutrition and simultaneous cultivation during bioremediation are recommended to enhance productivity.

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