Novel methods of data analysis were used to interpret codling moth (Cydia pomonella) catch data from central-trap, multiple-release experiments using a standard codlemone-baited monitoring trap in commercial apple orchards not under mating disruption. The main objectives were to determine consistency and reliability for measures of: 1) the trapping radius, composed of the trap's behaviorally ef...

The level of nitrogen leaching from organic compared to conventional farming was evaluated by using a systems modelling approach. Two different methods were used for estimating and evaluating nitrate leaching. A simple function was used in which nitrate leaching is dependent on percolation, soil clay content, average nitrogen input and crop sequence. A nitrogen balance model was used to estimat...

Experiments examining root growth, the utilization of N and the effect of green manures were carried out on four vegetable crops. Large differences were observed both in rooting depth penetration rates, and in final rooting depth and distribution. Onion had a very low depth penetration rate, carrot an intermediate rate, and lettuce and cabbage showed high rates. A combination of depth penetrati...

In order to improve biological control of agricultural pests, it is fundamental to understand which factors influence the composition of natural enemies in agricultural landscapes. In this study, we aimed to understand how agricultural land use affects a number of different traits in ground beetle communities to better predict potential consequences of land-use change for ecosystem functioning....

this study evaluates changes in species composition, catch, and cpue of three species of kilkas in the caspian sea from 1961 to 2009. the effects of fluctuations in sea level rise and fall on the catch of kilka as well as the impacts of a recent invasion by mnemiopsis leidyi (ctenophora) were assessed in terms of species composition and cpue of kilkas in the iranian coastal region of the caspia...

For arable stockless farming systems, the integration of catch crops (CC) during fallow period might be a key for closing nitrogen (N) cycle, reducing N leaching and increasing transfer to subsequent crop. However, despite considerable research efforts, fate in such integrated systems remains unclear. To address this, two-year field experiment was carried out northern Germany with different CC,...

Neonicotinoids are widely used systemic insecticides which, when applied to flowering crops, are translocated to the nectar and pollen where they may impact upon pollinators. Given global concerns over pollinator declines, this potential impact has recently received much attention. Field exposure of pollinators to neonicotinoids depends on the concentrations present in flowering crops and the d...

∗Based on my talk at the symposium The Dynamics of Possible Nuclear Extinction held February 28–March 1 2015 at The New York Academy of Medicine: http://totalwebcasting.com/view/ ?id=hcf cided to build a contraption called the Spectacular Thermonuclear Unpredictable Population Incineration Device, abbreviated STUPID. It’s arguably the the most costly device ever built on this beautiful spinning...