Ciencia Agropecuaria

SENSORY ACCEPTABILITY OF COLORED POTATO CHIPS AMONG SCHOOLCHILDREN IN THE PROVINCE OF CHIRIQUÍ

2026-07-14T13:37:38+00:00

Incorporating nutrient-rich foods high in antioxidant compounds into the diet is important for promoting health, particularly during childhood growth and development. This study evaluated the sensory acceptability of potato genotypes identified by the Panamanian Institute for Agricultural Innovation (IDIAP) as potential sources of anthocyanins. A descriptive cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was conducted among 93 schoolchildren aged 9–13 years from educational centers in Cerro Punta, Caldera, and Alto Boquete, Chiriquí Province, Panama. Chips prepared from four potato genotypes were evaluated: Rainbow Pink, Rainbow Purple, CIP309129.011, and IDIAP Roja. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic information as well as data on potato consumption and knowledge. Sensory acceptability and preference-ranking tests were subsequently conducted. Among participants, 80.6% reported consuming potatoes at least once per week, 92.5% consumed homemade potato chips, and 83.9% consumed commercially packaged potato chips. Sensory acceptability ratings of “like” or “like very much” reached 87.1% for Rainbow Purple and CIP309129.011 chips, compared with 70.9% for Rainbow Pink chips (p < 0.05). No significant preference was observed for IDIAP Roja chips compared with the other genotypes. In contrast, preference-ranking tests indicated favorable responses toward Rainbow Pink, Rainbow Purple, and CIP309129.011 chips.

The results demonstrate high sensory acceptability and consumer preference for chips produced from Rainbow Pink, Rainbow Purple, and CIP309129.011 potatoes, supporting their potential use in the development of value-added functional food products.

EVALUATION OF YIELD AND AGRONOMIC TRAITS OF F8 RICE LINES IN OBSERVATION NURSERIES

2026-07-14T13:38:43+00:00

Rice breeding is a dynamic process conducted through several stages, beginning with the planning and execution of crosses, followed by the management of segregating populations from the F2 to F5 generations, during which lines with partially stabilized traits are typically obtained. Subsequently, observation nurseries are established for selection. The objective of this study was to evaluate and select outstanding F8 rice lines based on agronomic performance across different locations in Panama for inclusion in advanced breeding trials within the rice improvement program. The experiment was conducted from August to December 2022 at five locations under rainfed conditions. A total of 176 genotypes, including two commercial check cultivars, were evaluated. Each experimental line was established in plots consisting of five 5 m-long rows, with 0.20 m spacing between rows. The experimental design consisted of Federer’s augmented design, in which F8 lines were unreplicated and commercial checks were included repeatedly within each block. Selection was performed using a selection index with a target value of +3 and a selection intensity of 10 for grain yield, and a target value of −3 with a selection intensity of 6 for lodging, rice blast, Sarocladium infection, grain discoloration, and bacterial blight. Selection percentages varied by location, reaching 10.2% in El Coco, 12.5% in Tonosí, 23.3% in Alanje, 24.4% in Guarumal, and 47.7% in Remedios. In the combined analysis, 27 lines were selected, showing a 19% relative gain in grain yield and reductions of 29% in grain discoloration, 21% in bacterial blight, 17% in rice blast, and 7% in lodging relative to the population mean. The results demonstrate that the selection index successfully identified 27 rice lines with superior agronomic performance compared with the commercial checks, making them suitable candidates for inclusion in advanced trials within the IDIAP rice breeding program.

SELECTION OF A WHITE-GRAIN QPM MAIZE WITH HIGH ZINC CONTENT

2026-07-14T13:39:47+00:00

The adaptability and stability of white-grain maize varieties with normal endosperm, high zinc content, and quality protein maize (QPM) characteristics were evaluated across 16 locations in Panama. Field trials were conducted in collaborating farmers’ fields and at the El Ejido Experimental Station of the Panamanian Agricultural Innovation Institute (IDIAP) over three consecutive years (2022–2024). During the first year, 18 varieties were evaluated; this number was subsequently reduced to 12, and in the final year, the best-performing candidate was compared with six varieties previously released by the national maize breeding project. Experiments were established using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data were analyzed using a combined restricted maximum likelihood (REML) analysis of variance, and treatment means were separated using the least significant difference (LSD) test. Individual and combined analyses of variance across years revealed highly significant differences among varieties for grain yield and other agronomic traits. Combined analyses across environments, together with stability analyses, identified the synthetic variety S16LTWNQHZNHGAB01 as the highest-yielding and most stable genotype across locations. After three years of evaluation, the local check variety IDIAP-MQ-09 achieved a mean grain yield of 4.70 t^.ha⁻¹, whereas S16LTWNQHZNHGAB01 produced 6.06 t^.ha⁻¹, representing a yield increment of more than 25%. The GGE-SReg biplot analysis further identified S16LTWNQHZNHGAB01 as the most stable genotype across environments. Reliability analysis of the standardized response indicated that the new variety outperformed the national check in approximately 9 out of 10 test environments. Based on its superior yield performance, stability, and adaptability, the registration and release of S16LTWNQHZNHGAB01 for cultivation by farmers in the Republic of Panama is recommended.

CERAMBYCID BEETLES (COLEOPTERA: CERAMBYCIDAE) OF ECOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE IN PANAMA

2026-07-14T13:40:27+00:00

Species of Cerambycidae (Coleoptera) deposited in the entomological collection of the Panamanian Agricultural Innovation Institute (IDIAP) from the central provinces of Panama were documented and identified to assess their ecological and economic relevance. The study focused on the principal Cerambycidae species represented in the insect collection of the Divisa Agricultural Innovation Center (CIA Divisa, IDIAP). Species were characterized based on morphological features, geographic distribution, and host plant associations using specialized taxonomic and biological literature. The presence of nine Cerambycidae species belonging to the subfamilies Cerambycinae and Lamiinae was confirmed in Panama, including Ischionodonta versicolor (Chevrolat), Xystochroma chloropus (Bates), and Batocera rufomaculata (De Geer). These species exhibit considerable morphological diversity and occupy important ecological niches, particularly through their contributions to wood decomposition and nutrient cycling. However, some species may also be considered pests because their larvae bore into living trees and economically important woody crops. The findings highlight the close relationship between these beetles and their environment, emphasizing both their positive ecological functions and their potential impact on agricultural and forestry production systems. This study contributes significantly to the knowledge of Panama’s entomofauna by documenting species that have received limited scientific attention in the country. Furthermore, it provides a foundation for future taxonomic, ecological, and applied research, as well as for the development of sustainable forest and agricultural management strategies.

ARTHROPOD FAUNA ASSOCIATED WITH Tithonia diversifolia IN CENTRAL PANAMA

2026-07-14T13:37:58+00:00

Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray (Asteraceae), commonly known as Mexican sunflower, is a perennial shrub native to Central and South America. The species is widely recognized for its ethnopharmacological properties, value as animal feed, contribution to soil improvement, and potential role in supporting beneficial arthropod communities. The objective of this study was to characterize the arthropod fauna associated with T. diversifolia in central Panama. The study was conducted at the Divisa Agricultural Innovation Center of the Panamanian Institute for Agricultural Innovation (IDIAP), where T. diversifolia was established as a living barrier surrounding a 0.5-ha mixed-cropping area. Five plants were sampled every two weeks over a ten-week period. One flower was randomly selected from the upper third of each plant, and arthropods were collected through direct capture and manual aspiration. Specimens were preserved in 70% ethanol and identified using taxonomic keys. Species frequencies were recorded, and biodiversity was assessed using Simpson’s diversity index. A total of 15 arthropod species were identified in association with T. diversifolia. The arthropod community exhibited high biodiversity, with species belonging predominantly to the orders Coleoptera and Hymenoptera. These groups included phytophagous, polyphagous, and predatory species, highlighting the ecological importance of T. diversifolia as a reservoir and refuge for beneficial arthropods within agricultural landscapes. The results suggest that T. diversifolia may contribute to the conservation of beneficial arthropod communities associated with cropping systems in central Panama.

CHARACTERIZATION OF ONION PRODUCTION SYSTEMS IN COCLÉ, PANAMA

2026-07-14T13:39:06+00:00

A survey was conducted to characterize the current status and production practices of onion growers in Coclé Province, Panama. A purposive sampling approach was employed, and information was collected through a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests of independence, Cramer's V coefficient, and Pearson’s contingency coefficient. The results showed that all surveyed producers were literate and that the farming population was dominated by growers older than 40 years, with limited participation of younger producers. Four producer associations were identified within a relatively small production sector. Farm size data indicated that onion production is primarily conducted by small-scale farmers, while land tenure arrangements were diverse. Producers reported access to both public and private technical assistance services. Although soil analyses were generally not performed, fertilizer application rates ranged from 680.4 to 1.134 kg^.ha⁻¹. Marketing was conducted through multiple channels. Sixteen contingency tables were analyzed using Chi-square tests. The null hypothesis of independence was rejected (p<0.05) in only two cases, whereas no significant association was detected in the remaining fourteen comparisons. Differences were observed between association measures, with Cramer’s V providing a more conservative assessment of variable relationships than Pearson’s contingency coefficient. The survey successfully characterized key socioeconomic and production features of onion farming in Coclé and highlighted the economic and social importance of this crop for producers and rural communities in the district of Natá. The results also indicate that future studies could benefit from incorporating additional multivariate statistical approaches to further explore relationships among production, socioeconomic, and management variables.

OPTIMIZATION OF A DIGITAL APPLICATION FOR PRODUCTIVE CLASSIFICATION OF CATTLE USING ZOOMETRIC INDICES IN PANAMANIAN CREOLE BREEDS

2026-07-14T13:40:10+00:00

Morphometric characterization of cattle is a fundamental tool for the functional and productive differentiation of Creole breeds adapted to tropical environments. In Panama, the Guaymí and Guabalá Creole cattle breeds are strategic animal genetic resources due to their adaptation and value in low-input production systems. However, the practical application of zoometric indices under field conditions is often limited by the complexity of the calculations and the lack of accessible digital tools. This study describes the development and optimization of Mooebius C5, a digital application designed to simplify the classification of bovine productive aptitude using five essential zoometric indices. The platform was developed using HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript, enabling it to run on desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones. Mooebius C5 automatically calculates the cephalic, thoracic, pelvic, body, and dactyl-thoracic indices from nine basic morphometric measurements. The system implements a weighted classification of beef or dairy aptitude, with automatic visualization of results and export to Microsoft Excel. The application was validated using a database of 225 adult Creole cattle previously characterized in Panama. The results demonstrated that the optimized system maintained the discriminating capacity of the original methodology while requiring fewer morphometric variables and zoometric indices. Mooebius C5 constitutes a low-cost, user-friendly technological tool for phenotypic selection programs, conservation of animal genetic resources, and decision support in tropical livestock production systems.

FIRST REPORT OF THE ENTOMOPATHOGENIC NEMATODE Heterorhabditis indica Poinar, 1992 (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae) IN PANAMA

2026-07-14T13:38:17+00:00

A bioprospecting survey conducted by the Nematology Laboratory of the Instituto de Innovación Agropecuaria de Panamá (IDIAP-NEMALAB) in Colón Province, Panama, resulted in the discovery of a native strain of an entomopathogenic nematode, morphologically identified as belonging to the genus Heterorhabditis. Entomopathogenic nematodes are recognized as effective biological control agents against larval stages of numerous insect pests, and their efficacy has been demonstrated worldwide, including in preliminary trials conducted by NEMALAB at the Eastern Agricultural Innovation Center (CIAOr) of IDIAP in Tanara, Chepo District, Eastern Panama. Species identification of the native isolate, experimentally designated NEMALAB 1H, was further investigated through detailed morphometric analyses of hermaphroditic females, amphimictic females, males, and third-stage infective juveniles (IJ3). The morphometric characteristics obtained were consistent with those previously reported for Heterorhabditis indica Poinar, 1992. Molecular analyses subsequently confirmed the morphological identification. This study constitutes the first confirmed record of H. indica in Panama and provides the basis for future research on its potential use in biological control programs.

SPECIES OF THE FAMILY NYMPHALIDAE (INSECTA: LEPIDOPTERA) REPORTED IN PANAMA

2026-07-14T13:38:31+00:00

Panama is an isthmus connecting Central and South America and is recognized for its exceptional biodiversity of flora and fauna. Among insects, the order Lepidoptera stands out for its remarkable species richness, particularly in forest ecosystems. The objective of this study was to compile and present a comprehensive inventory of species of the family Nymphalidae (Insecta: Lepidoptera) reported from Panama. Information was gathered through a review of published records, museum collections, field captures, and specialized literature concerning Nymphalidae in Panama. A total of 11 subfamilies, 149 genera, and 955 morphospecies within the family Nymphalidae were documented. The results highlight the considerable diversity of this butterfly family in Panama and provide an updated reference for future taxonomic, ecological, and conservation studies. This review contributes to the monitoring and understanding of Nymphalidae diversity in Panama and provides valuable information on the occurrence of these butterflies in both natural and agricultural ecosystems.

CIENCIA AGROPECUARIA JOURNAL FOR THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF PANAMANIAN AGRICULTURE: FIVE DECADES OF HISTORY

2026-07-16T18:19:22+00:00

Since its establishment in 1975 under Law No. 51, the Panamanian Agricultural Research Institute (later restructured as the Panamanian Agricultural Innovation Institute [IDIAP] under Law No. 162 of September 4, 2020) has been mandated to design, promote, stimulate, coordinate, and conduct research to support agricultural development. In response to this mandate, Ciencia Agropecuaria was created as the principal scientific journal dedicated to disseminating specialized research in the agricultural sector. The objective of this systematic review is to highlight the journal’s contribution to sustainable agricultural development in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of IDIAP. A total of 160 articles published in the journal were reviewed, complemented by technical documents covering diverse research areas developed by IDIAP. These contributions were organized into six strategic priority areas: (i) optimization of the use of agricultural, livestock, and marine products and by-products; (ii) animal science and pasture management; (iii) sustainable soil management and biodiversity conservation; (iv) Integrated Pest Management (IPM); (v) environmentally and socially responsible agriculture; and (vi) innovation for climate change adaptation and resilience. In addition, statistics are presented for the 40 issues of Ciencia Agropecuaria published between October 1978 and January 2025. The review demonstrates that over five decades, Ciencia Agropecuaria has contributed significantly to the generation and dissemination of scientific knowledge, technology, and innovation to address the needs, demands, and aspirations of Panamanian society. The journal has served as a key platform for advancing agricultural research and sustainable development in Panama. Recognition is extended to the generations of scientists whose dedication and commitment have advanced Panamanian agriculture.