Influence of hydrogels on grass crops under water stress

• Grant number: 24/01064-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: April 01, 2024
• End date: March 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Agronomy - Crop Science
• Principal Investigator: Fernando Ferrari Putti
• Grantee: Gabriel da Silva Teodoro
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Engenharia. Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Tupã. Tupã , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/03005-2 - Development of new technologies to reduce the effects of water stress in models integrated into nutrient administration, AP.PNGP.PI
• Associated scholarship(s): 25/06464-6 - DEVELOPMENT OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES TO REDUCE THE EFFECTS OF WATER STRESS BY ANALYZING THE INFLUENCE ON THE MICROBIAL COMMUNITY, BE.EP.MS

Abstract

Brazil is the world's largest meat exporter and has the largest commercial herd in the world. This is due to the low cost of pasture compared to concentrated feed, and it is the main source of food for cattle produced on pasture. However, due to periods of drought and changes in rainfall patterns, pastures do not produce enough to feed the herds. The aim of this project will therefore be to evaluate the effect of hydrogels on grass crops under water stress in order to meet water demand. To this end, soil characteristics, the root system and physiological and biochemical changes will be evaluated.