Agriculture and plant science.

Chair: Maria T. Begonia, Jackson State University 

Vicechair: Girish K. Panicker, Alcorn State University 

THURSDAY MORNING

Pacific Room

8:30 Introduction

8:45 EFFECT OF MUSCADINE GRAPE FIBER AND WHEAT BRAN FIBER ON CECAL BUTYRIC ACID, FECAL OUTPUT, AND WEIGHT GAIN IN RATS

Juan C. Bruch and Betty J. [Ector.sup.*], Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762

The ability of butyric acid to inhibit cell proliferation and enhance cell differentiation has been well documented. Studies have shown high cecal concentrations of butyric acid associated with wheat bran consumption. The primary objective of this research was to determine the cecal concentration of butyric acid associated with the consumption of muscadine powder and compare it with that associated with wheat bran consumption. Weanling male rats were fed six test diets: control, fiber free, and diets that contained 5% or 10% fiber from wheat bran or 5% or 10% fiber from muscadine powder. Food and water consumption, weight, and fecal output were recorded during the experimental period. After 28 days, the rats were sacrificed and cecal concentrations of butyric acid were measured. Food consumption was not different among rats fed wheat bran and muscadine powder. Fecal output was significantly (P<.05) greater for rats fed 10% fiber from muscadine powder than for those fed all other diets. Rats which consumed fib er from muscadine powder had significantly lower concentrations of cecal butyric acid than rats which consumed fiber from wheat bran. The results of this study indicate that the consumption of muscadine powder does not yield significant amounts of butyric acid in the cecum and may not influence cell proliferation nor differentiation in the rat colon.

9:00 INFLUENCE OF EGTA ON CADMIUM UPTAKE BY WHEAT

Afrachanna D. [Butler.sup.*], Courtney J. Young, Rodrick J. Warren, Umeko T. Griffin, Bobby F. Crudup, Maria F.T. Begonia, and Gregorio B. Begonia, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39217

There is an increasing interest in phytoextraction as an alternative technology to clean up Cd-contaminated soils. However, the success of phytoextraction depends on the identification of plant species that can both tolerate toxic metal levels, and accumulate substantial amounts of the metal into the shoots. Also, efficient uptake of Cd is dependent on the availability of the metal for absorption by the roots. Cognizant of the effects of chelates in increasing the availability of metals, this study was conducted to determine the optimum concentration of a synthetic chelate, ethylene [oxyethylenetrinitrilo] tetraacetic acid (EGTA) that maximizes the phytoextraction of cadmium (Cd) from a contaminated soil by wheat (Triticum aestivum L cv. TAM109). Wheat seeds were sown in various concentrations of Cd and EGTA mixed with a growing medium composed of sieved soil and peat (2:1, v:v). Experimental units were arranged in a 4 Cd x 4 EGTA factorial in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 4 replications. After si x weeks of growth, the plants were harvested and their Cd contents were extracted and quantified using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results revealed that wheat plants were relatively tolerant to Cd x EGTA combinations as exhibited by non-significant differences in their dry biomass and chlorophyll contents. EGTA applied at 5 mmol/kg was the most effective in enhancing Cd uptake by wheat.

9:15 GAMMA IRRADIATION PROCESSING TO REDUCE THE RISK OF VIBRIO INFECTIONS FROM RAW OYSTERS

Linda S. [Andrews.sup.*] and Susan DeBlanc, Mississippi State University, Pascagoula, MS 39567

Vibrio Vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus are natural inhabitants of estuarine and ocean environments. As such they are naturally concentrated in filter feeding molluscan shellfish, oysters, clams, etc. These Vibrio pathogens cause serious illness and death in susceptible persons when consumed along with raw half-shell oysters. Vibrio spp. have proven to be relatively sensitive to irradiation exposure compared with other food borne pathogens like Salmonella and Listeria. This study investigated irradiation processing as an alternative post harvest treatment (PHT) for raw shell stock oysters to reduce V.v. and V.p. to nondetectable levels and still maintain the raw halfshell qualities consumers expect in raw oysters. Live oysters, with naturally incurred and artificially inoculated Vibrios, were exposed to 0-3 kGy dose Cobalt-60 gamma radiation. Vibrio vulnificus was effectively reduced from [1.sup.6]0 cfu/g oyster meat to nondetectable levels (<3 mpn/g oyster meat) with an exposure dose of 0.75 kGy. Vibrio pa rahaemolyticus, TX03:K6, proved to be more resistant and required 1.0 kGy for its reduction to nondetectable levels. Sensory quality was maintained with irradiation exposure up to 1.5 kGy. Higher irradiation doses increased the mortality rate and reduced shelf life. At [greater than or equal to] 2 kGy, the oysters produced an unpleasant yellow exudate. In summary, a 1 kGy dose reduced the Vibrios to nondetectable levels and at the same time maintained good sensory quality, a normal shelf life of 15 days, and minimum mortality. The authors wish to thank Daniel VanGent for his technical assistance at the Nuclear Science Center, Lousisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70806.

9:30 OFF-FLAVOR DEVELOPMENT, DETECTION, AND REDUCTION METHODS IN CHANNEL CATFISH PROCESSING

Juan L. [Silva.sup.*], (1) Marinela Barrero (1), Russell Bazemore (1), Casey Grimm (2), and Karen Bett (2), (1.) Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, and (2.)USDA-ARS, SRRC, New Orleans, LA 70179

Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) is the fourth most consumed seafood species in the U.S. and Mississppi is its major producer and processor. These fish are mild in flavor, thus easy to prepare in many ways. However, off-flavors caused by blue-green algae and other minor off-flavors are a major problem in the industry. Two major compounds, geosmin and 2-methyl isoburneol are key in the musty and blue-green off-flavors in catfish. Other compounds may be responsible for such descriptors as woody, chemical, and putrid, among many. Fish that are off-flavor are rejected by the processor and carry a loss to the farmer. Detection methods to detect the off-flavors have been developed. However, "flavor checkers" are capable of detecting these compounds below 1 ppb. Physical (deep skinning, tumbling), processing aids (ozone, [H.sub.2][O.sub.2]), and additives (citric acid, salt, marinades) are possible intervention processes that could be used to decrease or eliminate these off-flavors. A brief overview of the prob lem and some possible solutions will be discussed, including the sites during processing where the methods could be used.

9:45 PERFORMANCE OF APPLE AND PEAR CULTIVARS IN NORTHERN MISSISSIPPI

Frank B. Matta, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762

Apple and pear cultivars were planted in 1987 and produced a measurable crop the third year after planting. First-year harvest indicated that 'Yellow Delicious' apple produced more than the other cultivars. In 1991, 'Red Chief CS' outproduced the other cultivars. Most cultivars were equally productive the third year; the exception was 'Paula Red' which was the lowest yielding cultivar. Results illustrate bloom period, harvest date, yield, and fire blight susceptibility of apple and pear cultivars in northern Mississippi. Based on cumulative yields for 4 years, it is concluded that apple and pear yields are within the normal range of production. Apple cultivars 'Red Chief CS' (Campbell Strain) and 'Red Chief MS' (Mercier Strain) are recommended for Mississippi based on yield and tolerance to fire blight. Pears, as indicated by bloom period, were very susceptible to late-spring freezes. 'Moon-Glo' pear is not recommended for Mississippi due to its susceptibility to fire blight. 'Orient,' 'Keiffer,' and 'LeConte ' are recommended based on yield and tolerance to fire blight.

10:00 ENHANCING FARM EFFICIENCY AND PROFITABILITY IN SELECTED MISSISSIPPI COUNTIES

Aquanda [Jones.sup.*], Patrick E. Igbokwe, Liang C. Huam, Franklin Chukwuma, Bernard Cotton, and Juliet G. Huam, Alcorn State University, Alcorn State, MS 39096

Field experiment was used to determine the effect of three cropping systems (conventional, transitional and organic) on 'Beaureguard' sweet potato survival, growth and yield potential. The study was conducted on a farmer's field in Marks, Quitman county, in North Mississippi. preparation, fertilizer applications and pest control varied with cropping system. Moisture application was by natural rainfall and overhead irrigation. Up-to-date findings indicate that the cropping systems did not influence plant survival, vine length, internode length, stem diameter and vine fresh and dry weights. The overall sweet potato number and weight were highest for conventional cropping system and lowest for the transitional and organic cropping systems. The numbers and weights for the #1, #2, and cull sweet potato grades were also highest for the conventional cropping system and lowest for the transitional and organic cropping systems. The jumbo sweet potato grade was not influenced by the cropping systems. The overall yields from the transitional and organic cropping systems were comparable to that reported for the conventional cropping system when harvests from their companion crops were considered.

10:15 RESOLVING RELATIONSHIPS AMONG NARCISSUS CULTIVARS

Robert G. [Hamilton.sup.*], Tiffany Scarff, Daila Morgan, Kimberly McGehee, and Scott Rimes, Mississippi College, Clinton, MS 39056

Since there is very little molecular genetic information available for Narcissus cultivars (daffodils), we used random amplified polymorphic DNAs (RAPDs) to compare the three cultivars, Wee Bee, Little Gem and Bagatelle. These three cultivars are miniatures, in the yellow trumpet group, 1Y-Y. Since they are quite similar in appearance, it is quite possible that they may not be distinct cultivars. DNA extractions required a modification of a commercially available kit. Five different primers yielded 129 different fragments among the three cultivars, 53 of which occurred twice among the cultivars. Using the UPGMA routine in PHYLIP, we completed one analysis of all 129 fragments and one analysis of just the 53 that occurred twice. Data from the 53 fragments that occurred at least twice in each cultivar where they were present indicated that 'Wee Bee' and 'Little Gem' are more similar to each other than either is to 'Bagatelle.' Data from the analysis of all 129 fragments indicated that 'Bagatelle' and 'Little Ge m' were a little more similar to each other than either is to 'Wee Bee.' Data from the breeders of these cultivars suggests that 'Wee Bee' originated prior to 'Bagatelle' and 'Little Gem,' supporting the analysis derived from all 129 fragments. This project was supported by a grant from The American Daffodil Society.

10:30 Break

10:45 EFFECTS OF KAOLIN CLAY ON SOUTHERN HIGHBUSH BLUEBERRIES (VACCINIUM SPP.)

J.D. Spiers (1), Frank B. [Matta.sup.*] (2), J.B. Braswell (2), and D.S. Marshall (1), (1.) USDA/ARS, Small Fruits Research Station, Poplarville, MS 394701, and (2.) Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762

Four separate studies were conducted to report the effects on kaolin applications on southern highbush blueberries (Vaccinium spp.). When applied to mature blueberry plants, kaolin clay emulsion dried to form a white reflective film. Kaolin applications affected bud development, fruit set and development, plant growth, and photosynthetic response, but had no effect on fruit yield or fruit quality parameters. 'Cooper' received a single application of kaolin during early flowering (bud stages 3-6). Kaolin increased flower bud development and fruit set, regardless of flower bud stage at application. Berry size was reduced with kaolin, perhaps due to increased number of fruit present. 'Magnolia' received a single application of kaolin at pre-fruit set, early fruit set, mid-maturity, and pre-harvest resulting in a linear increase in plant volume with early applications. Fruit yield and quality parameters were not affected by kaolin. Photosynthesis rates of treated plants did not differ compared to control plants. However, treated plants had higher transpiration rates than unsprayed plants. Kaolin reduced canopy temperature while maintaining photosynthetic rates and fruit yield, and increased transpiration, fruit set, and plant growth.

11:00 BLUEBERRY SHELF-LIFE UNDER ALTERNATE [CO.sub.2] STORAGE

Adel [Al-quarashi.sup.*], Frank B. Matta, and James O. Gamer, Jr., Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762

Blueberry cultivar 'Tifblue' was stored at 4[degrees]C and exposed to various [CO.sub.2] concentrations (.035%, 15%, and 25%). Berry weight loss was reduced at 15% and 25% [CO.sub.2]. Juice pH and titrateable acidity were not effected. Soluble solids concentration (SSC) increased with time in storage and was lowest under [CO.sub.2] treatment. Berry firmness was not affected by [CO.sub.2] treatment. Berry appearance under 15% and 25% [CO.sup.2] was greater compared to regular refrigeration. [CO.sub.2] concentration approximating 20% delayed ripening, indicating increase shelf-life.

THURSDAY AFTERNOON

Pacific Room

1:15 Divisional Poster Session

COMPARATIVE CADMIUM PHYTOEXTRACTION EFFICIENCIES AMONG THREE TALL FESCUE CULTIVARS

Erica R. [Dillon.sup.*], Olufunke [Okuyiga-Ezem.sup.*], Oscar T. Hundley, Ashley N. Davis, Afrachanna D. Butler, Maria F.T. Begonia, and Gregorio B. Begonia, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39217

Phytoextraction of metals like cadmium (Cd) has emerged as a promising, cost-effective alternative to conventional engineering-based remediation methods. The success of this technology is dependent upon the selection of plant species or cultivars that (a) can tolerate toxic metal levels, and (b) accumulate substantial amounts of metals into their shoots for easier harvest. In our search for plant species/cultivars that can grow vigorously during the colder periods of an annual crop rotation cycle, seeds of three tall fescue cultivars (Spirit No. 1, Titan Tall No. 1, Fawn No. 1) were sown in 150 mL plastic elongated tubes containing sand. Beginning at 3 days after emergence until harvest, plants were alternately watered with appropriate concentrations of aqueous cadmium nitrate or modified nutrient solution. After six weeks of growth, plants were harvested and their shoot and root Cd contents were extracted and quantified using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results showed that based from their biomass, the t hree tall fescue cultivars tolerated the lower concentrations of Cd but exhibited reduced biomass at the highest Cd concentration. Generally, more Cd were taken up by the roots as opposed to the shoots. Among the three cultivars tested, Spirit No. 1 and Tital Tall No. 1 appeared to be efficient cultivars for Cd phytoextraction and therefore, deserve further evaluation using a Cd-contaminated soil and longer growing period.

RESOLVING VARIATION WITHIN NARCISSUS CULTIVARS

Robert G. [Hamilton.sup.*], Tiffany Scarff, Kimberly McGehee, and Daila Morgan, Mississippi College, Clinton, MS 39056

A previous study of genetic variation among Narcissus (daffodil) cultivars revealed evidence of variation within cultivars. Since each cultivar is presumably derived from cloning of bulbs, this variation was unexpected. We analyzed three cultivars from the Gray Group, 'RIKKI' (7w-y), 'SUNDISC' (7y-y) and 'CLAIRE' (7y-y). Three of each cultivar were analyzed using random amplified polymorphic DNAs with one primer. Data indicated uniformity among samples of 'RIKKI' and 'SUNDISC,' however 1 of the 3 samples of 'CLAIRE' differed from the other two. This simple method of analysis could provide a means to confirm of reject individual plants as representative of a given cultivar.

SWEET POTATO OR YAM? A CONSTANT DILEMMA

Juliet G. [Huam.sup.*], Patrick E. Igbokwe, Liang C. Huam, Franklin Chukwuma, and Bernard Cotton, Alcorn State University, Alcorn State, MS 39096

Sweet potato or yam? While the names of the two root vegetables are used interchangeably in the supermarkets and among consumers, the two plants are totally different vegetables. This paper will attempt to clear the confusion between the two vegetables in term of their origin, availability, botany, appearance, and nutritional value. Sweet potato (Ipomea batatas), a dicotyledon, belongs to the Morning Glory family and is a native of Peru and Ecuador. Popular in the southern United States, this yellow tuber has smooth, thin skin with short, elongated ends. It is a nutritive powerhouse for fiber, vitamin C, potassium, beta-carotene, and is practically fat-free. Yam, on the other hand, is a member of the Lily family (Dioscorea). A monocotyledon, the yam originated from West Africa. True yam is found in the tropical countries and is not readily available in the United States. It has rough, scaly, reddish-brown skin with pointed ends. It contains abundant carbohydrates, beta-carotene and fiber. For many American, s weet potato shows up more during Thanksgiving dinner. This vegetable has been undervalued and under appreciated. It has potential nutritional value and definitely can be used throughout the year. Because of its versatility, it can be transformed into pies, puddings, muffins, canned vegetables or biscuits. Yam or potato: they can be used interchangeably with few modifications made in the recipes.

SPATIAL VARIABILITY OF INFILTRATION IN A LOESSIAL SOIL UNDER TWO CROPPING SYSTEMS

Cedric A. [Sims.sup*] and Alton B. Johnson, Alcorn State University, Alcorn State, MS 39096

An experiment measuring spatial variability of infiltration, relative elevation, and organic carbon was conducted in the Summer of 2000 in Southwest Mississippi on no-till (NT) and conventional till (CT) fields. The soil in both tillage systems was Memphis silt loam (Fine silty, mixed, thermic Typic Hapludalt) with corn-cotton rotation. One of the fields under study was NT planted in corn (Zea mays L.) and two were CT planted in corn and cotton (Gossypium sp.). A double ring infiltrometer was used on grids to measure water infiltration rate. Correspondingly, soil moisture, organic carbon, and elevation were measured at each node of the established grids. The modles describing semivariograms for relative elevation, infiltration and organic carbon in the fields were either exponential, linear of spherical. The NT-corn field had a coefficient of variability (CV) of 53.72% with the range, sill and nugget of 422 m, 0.696 m, and 0.169 m, respectively. The CT-corn had a CV of 38.90% with the range, sill and nugget o f 87.46 m, 0.07 m, and 0.06 in, respectively. The CT-cotton had a CV of 37.24% with the range, sill and nugget of 311 in, 0.10 m, and 0.05 m, respectively. The test of normality indicated that values of relative elevation, infiltration and organic carbon were not normally distributed for the NT-corn, CT-corn, and CT-cotton fields. Semivariograms for infiltration and organic carbon for all fields showed nugget effects, however, only elevation semivariogram for CT-cotton showed a nugget effect but was not as strong as those of the other parameters.

EFFECTS OF CADMIUM ON THE SEQUENTIAL EXPRESSION OF CHLOROPHYLL IN BRASSICA JUNCEA

M.S. [Zaman.sup.*], C. Jennings, P. Kumar, and A.M. Powell, Alcorn State University, Alcorn State, MS 39096

Phytoremediation, a green technology, uses vegetation to remove heavy metals or other pollutants from the environment. Phytoremediation depends upon identifying plant species that can tolerate and accumulate high concentrations of pollutants. Cadmium (Cd) is an ubiquitous pollutant in the biosphere. Pilot studies in our laboratory indicated that this plant species is tolerant to high concentrations of Cd in soils, and it accumulates Cd from soils as well. Since chlorophyll is related to plant production, in this study, we evaluated the effects of Cd on the sequential expression of chlorophyll for 9, 14,21, and 28 days of plant life. Plants were grown on Memphis silt loam soil containing various concentrations of Cd. Data indicated a dose related inhibition of chlorophyll-a, chlorophyll-b, and total chlorophyll expressions in Cd treated plants. This suggests that Brassica juncea may also be used to develop plant models to biomonitor soil pollutants. Further investigations are being conducted in our laboratory to explore the hyper-accumulation potential of Brassica juncea for soil Cd in the presence of chelating agents.

YARDLONG BEAN: A NEW CROP FOR MISSISSIPPI GROWERS AND CONSUMERS

Christine [Coker.sup.*] and Mike Ely, Mississippi State University, Biloxi, MS 39531

Ethnicity plays a strong role in niche market development, and this market is currently under served. As Asian populations continue to grow in Mississippi, especially along the Gulf Coast with the increasing number of non-Caucasian shrimpers, it is important to recognize new market opportunities. The fruits and vegetables desired by the diverse Asian population is often unavailable or of poor quality due to extensive shipping distances. Mississippi growers can meet this need for fresh oriental produce at a higher price than traditional vegetables. Yardlong or asparagus bean (Vigna sesquipedalis) is related to the cowpea. The cultural practices for yardlong bean is similar to that of traditional pole beans. However, there is still much to be learned about this crop in terms of pest, management, disease susceptibility, and variety superiority. The objectives of this research were to compare yardlong bean varieties and collect observational data regarding production practices. Four replications of 8 yardlong bea n varieties were grown at the Beaumont Horticultural Unit during the summer of 2001. Beans were grown on 4 ft trellises set 1 ft above the soil line. Beans were harvested twice a week. Date of first harvest, number of harvests, and yields were affected by variety. Preliminary data show that 'Red Seed' and 'Red Stripe Seed' varieties are best suited for growing conditions in southern Mississippi. However, mosaic viruses may pose a potential production problem.

BIOACCUMULATION OF CADMIUM AND LEAD IN INDIAN MUSTARD GROWN IN METAL CONTAMINATED SOILS

Ketia L. [Shumaker.sup.*], A.M. Powell, and M.S. Zaman, Alcorn State University, Alcom State, MS 39096

Heavy metal contamination of soil is a persistent problem. Soil contaminants such as cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) are hazardous to human health. Phytoremediation uses vegetation to remove pollutants from the environment. Phytoremediation of soil is relatively cost effective and reliable compared to conventional methods such as chemical treatment and excavation. Soil phytoremediation depends upon identifying plant species that can tolerate high concentrations of soil pollutants and accumulate pollutants from the soils. In this study, we investigated the growth response of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea) to soil Cd and Pb and its phytoremediation potential of soil Cd and Pb. Plants were grown on Memphis silt loam soils containing various concentrations of Cd and Pb. Plants were grown in porous bottom planters under vital lighting for 16 h light and 8 h dark cycles. Planters were placed on reservoir trays (separate trays for each treatment group). Watering was done on every other day or as needed with distilled water, and once a week with full strength Hoagland solution. On day 30 of the experiment, plants were harvested, cleaned, and oven dried. Samples were acid digested and analyzed for tissue metal contents. Data were analyzed for growth response of plants to soil metal contents and bioaccumulation of metals. Data indicated dose related effects of Cd and Pb on plant growth and bioaccumulation of metals. Investigations are being conducted in our laboratory to further explore the hyperaccumulation potential of Brassica juncea for soil Cd and Pb.

CERCOSPORELLA RUBI AND ROSETTE DISEASE OF BLACKBERRY

Melinda R. [Lyman.sup.1*], Kenneth J. [Curry.sup.1], Barbara J. [Smith.sup.2], and Susan V. [Diehl.sup.3], [University.sup.1] of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406-5018; [USDA.sup.2], Agricultural Research Service, Poplarville, MS 39470; and [Mississippi.sup.3] State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762

Cercosporella rubi is present in rosette infected blackberry floral buds at the time of floral initiation and persists until flowers become senescent. At both light and electron microscopic levels, signs of necrosis appear when infected floral buds reach 6.0 mm in diameter and continues as the flower opens. The ovary wall and ovule of infected, opened flowers are heavily necrotic as compared to those of healthy, opened flowers. Hyphae also proliferate on stamens and ultimately clog the stomium as it is formed. Cercosporella rubi has an advantage over other saprophytes since several cycles of sporulation occur during the time other fungi are establishing themselves on the dead flower. The mode of primary infection in the spring is uncertain. Does C. rubi overwinter as a teleomorph on dead floricanes or as an anamorph on primocane buds? We rarely isolated C. rubi from dormant primocane buds, although a number of other fungi were found. Dead floricanes were examined weekly from January through June for the Mycos phaerella teleomorph of Cercosporella. An unidentified species of Mycosphaerella was commonly found on dead canes which we are currently attempting to identify to species.

ECONOMICS OF ECHINACEA CULTIVATION

Liang C. [Huam.sup.*], Patrick E. Igbokwe, Magid Dagher, Robin Walker, and Skip Owens, Alcorn State University, Alcorn State, MS 39096

The farm-level value of herbs produced in North America is more than $1 billion, with the market growing at least 10 percent annually. One herb with an established market is Echinacea, commonly known as purple cone-flower. Echinacea is the most widely used herb in the United States because of its antibiotic, antiviral, and antiinflammatory characteristics. Recently some Mississippi producers have begun to grow Echinacea as an alternative enterprise. While research information on Echinacea's medicinal properties is abundant, cost, and yield information are virtually non-existent. The purpose of this paper is to present economic information for two Echinacea species (E. purpurea and E. pallida) that are commercially important and can be cultivated locally. Production and economic data for this paper were obtained from results of current Echinacea research conducted at Alcorn State University Experiment Station. Results in this study indicate that the two Echinacea species can be grown profitably in Mississippi. Profit margin for E. pallida is higher than E. purpurea. Positive returns are obtained when yields exceed 1500 and 1250 lbs per acre at current prices of $2.50 and $3.00 per lb of dried roots for E. purpurea and E. pallida, respectively.

Divisional Talks Resume

2:15 EFFECT OF CARBOHYDRATE COMPOSITION AND TEMPERATURE ON SEED GERMINATION OF COWPEA CULTIVARS

Rafaela Carvajal (1), Clarence E. [Watson.sup.*] (1), Kristina F. Connor (2), and James O. Garner, Jr. (1), (1.) Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, and (2.) U.S. Forest Service, Mississippi State, MS 39760

Twenty-five cultivars of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) were previously screened to evaluate their ability to geminate at low (10[degrees]C), moderate (30[degrees]C), and high (40[degrees]C) temperature. Four cowpea cultivars were chosen to evaluate carbohydrate composition. The main sugars present in ungerminated cowpeas were sucrose (9 to 18 mg [g.sup.-1] seed), raffinose (1 to 3 mg [g.sup.-1] seed), and stachyose (5 to 10 mg [g.sup.-1] seed). In germinating seeds at 10[degrees]C, the cultivar with highest germination percentage showed the highest sucrose content in cotyledon tissue and the lowest sucrose content in embryo tissues, suggesting a faster and more efficient use of sucrose for germination and seedling growth. Sucrose content was high in cultivars with low germination at low temperature, which indicated an accumulation of the sugar as it was not used for germination and development processes. This trend changed at higher temperature; the sucrose content in the embryo tissues decreased denoti ng that it have been used in the germination process. In germinating cowpea seeds, raffinose and stachyose were found at low temperature, but not at higher temperatures, which could be explained by the negative effect of low temperature on enzyme activity.

2:30 INFLUENCE OF ORGANIC MANURES AND MULCH ON YIELD AND QUALITY OF MUSCADINE (VITIS ROTUNDIFOLIA)

Girish K. Panicker.sup.*] (1), Ahmed Al-Humadi (1), Cedric A. Sims (1), Juan L. Silva (1), and Frank B. Matta (2), (1.) Alcorn State University, Lorman, MS 39096, and (2.) Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762

Organic farming has become a welcome alternative in the field of agriculture due to the uncontrolled spread of organic pollutants (POPs) and their infiltration into the environment and our bodies. Muscadine (Vitis rotundifolia var. 'Summit') was grown in Geneva Double Curtian Trellies System on Memphis Silt Loam Soil (Typic Hapludalph, silty, mixed, thermic). Three treatments of organic manures (cow-C; poultry-P; cow poultry-CP) with pine mulch were applied in basins around each plant in a C.R. design. Control treatment received regular inorganic fertilizers and traditional cultural practices. Biomass development, yield, and fruit and water qualities were evaluated. Percent ground cover, stem diameter, and yield were higher in organic plants. There was no significant difference in diameter, length, and degree brix of the fruit. No pathogenic organism from organic manures was found in fruits. Soil compaction was higher in control and it was lower in organic treatments due to the higher level of organic matter content. Higher concentrations of nitrate-N and P were noticed in the surface soil after manuring, but there was no trend in N or P enrichment of groundwater.

2:45 CHALLENGING THREE POTENTIAL PHYTOACCUMLATORS FOR LEAD IN CONTAMINATED DREDGED SOIL

Ketia L. [Shumaker.sup.*], Elgenaid I. Hamadain, and Charles Rhyne, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39217

Recent studies indicate that plant species Triticum aestivum, Sesbania exaltata, and Ipomoea lacunosa are all potential hyperaccumulators for heavy metal lead (Pb) in hydroponic systems. The purpose of this study was to challenge the hyperaccumulation capability of these three plant species for Pb in contaminated dredged soil from a confined disposal facility in Bayport, Wisconsin. Soil was sampled from three distinct locations. Laboratory soil analysis of these locations identified not only Pb but also 16 other metals. Ten plants of each species were grown in pots for four weeks under laboratory conditions. The plants were harvested and separated into roots and shoots for dry weight and Pb tissue analysis. Plant weights were compared to S. exaltata and I. lacunose grown in Pb-free hydroponic culture showing biomass reductions in plants grown in Bayport soil. All three plant species accumulated and concentrated a significant amount of Pb in the root tissue biomass. However, analysis of the shoot Pb content an d concentration was not significant. Soil location played a significant role in the root Pb content and concentration. Data also showed relatively large variability among plants of the same species and soil location. This can be attributed in part to individual plant uptake. Overall, data suggest that all three plant species are able to tolerate highly contaminated soil conditions with the potential of accumulating significant amounts of Pb.

3:00 Break

3:15 INFLUENCE OF ORGANIC MANURES AND MULCH ON PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND MICROBIAL ATTRIBUTES OF TABLE MUSCADINES (VITIS ROTUNDIFOLIA)

Juan L. [Silva.sup.*] (1), Frank B. Matta (1), Girish K. Panicker (2), Ahmad Al-Humadi (2), and Cedric A. Sims (2), (1.) Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, and (2.) Alcorn State University, Alcorn State, MS 39096

Muscadines are grown in the Southeast US for table, juice, wine, and preserve products. An alternative to conventional farming is organic farming. This is desired by a segment of the consumers. However, new good agricultural practices guidelines call for the safe production of these crops. Muscadines (Vitis rotundifolia var. Summit) were grown and transported to the quality laboratory for analyses. Three treatments of organic manures with pine mulch (cow, C and poultry, P manures, and PC) were applied in basins around each plant in a C.R. design. Control treatment, CON, received regular inorganic fertilizers and traditional cultural practices. Treatments did not show any difference in total acidity (~0.22%), pH (~3.45), phenolics (~350 mg/L), pectin (~1.3 g/100 g), and soluble solids (~13.5 Brix). Sensory panelists did not find differences between treatments. The microbial profile of the fruit was similar, regardless of treatment. Several bacteria, molds, and yeast associated with spoilage of muscadines were found on the surface. However, no pathogenic organisms could be identified in fruit from any of the treatments.

3:30 SCREENING ANTIOXIDANT PLANTS FOR PHYTOREMEDIATION ABILITY OF 2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE

Lovell O. [Agwaramgbo.sup.*] (1), Protiti Khan (1), and Steve Larson (2), (1.) Tougaloo College, Tougaloo, MS 39174, and (2.) Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS 39180

Phytoremediation is a viable, effective, and economically attractive technology which uses plants to remove chemical contaminants from soil and ground water. A major munitions contaminant, TNT has been known to be remediated by several plants such as, Myriophyllum aquaticum (Parrot feather), and Elodea. This study focuses on screening plants which have natural antioxidant phyto-chemicals for their ability to remediate TNT from soil and ground water. Several plants contianing different types of antioxidants (carotenoids, vitamin C, allyl sulfides, phytosterols, and vitamin E), were screened first for their antioxidant properties and then for their remediation abilities for TNT. Results for remediation abilites were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results also suggested that many of the plants that had antioxidant properties were also able to remediate TNT, and therefore suggested that there may be a possible correlation between antioxidant capacities and remediation abilites of plant s studied.

3:45 EFFECT OF FATTY ACID COMPOSITION AND TEMPERATURE ON SEED GERMINATION OF COWPEA CULTIVARS

Rafaela Carvajal, James O. Garner, [Jr..sup.*], and Clarence E. Watson, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762

Twenty-five cowpea cultivars were screened for germination under stress condition (10 or 40[degrees]C) temperatures compared with the standard 30[degrees]C. After screening, four cultivars were selected to study seed lipid composition. The main fatty acids detected in cowpea seeds were palmitic acid (16:0), palmitoleic acid (16:1), stearic acid (18:0), oleic acid (18:1), linoleic acid (18:2), linolenic acid (18:3), and arachidic acid (20:0). Cultivars with higher germination percentage had higher stearic, oleic, and linolenic acid content in ungerminated seeds. In germinating seeds of all cultivars, the proportion of unsaturated fatty acid was higher than saturated fatty acid at lower temperatures. The 18:2/18:1 and 18-carbon unsaturated to 18-carbon saturated ratio at 10[degrees]C, were slightly higher in the cultivars with higher germination percentage, and were significantly higher at 30[degrees]C.

4:00 Divisional Business Meeting