No. 03-1(special) (2025): Research, results

Kazakhstan is one of the world's leading grain producers. However, preserving the harvested grain during long-term storage remains a major challenge. Improper ventilation and high humidity during storage lead to biochemical changes that degrade grain quality. One promising and eco-friendly method for protecting stored grain from pests and pathogenic microflora is the use of controlled atmosphere (CA) technologies based on potassium iodide and molecular iodine. Experimental results demonstrated high biological effectiveness of CA against pests such as the Sitophilus granarius L., Tribolium confusum Duv., Rhizopertha dominica F., Attagenus simulans Sols. and fungal species including Penicillium, Alternaria, and Mucor. The application of aerosol nanotechnology in storage facilities can significantly reduce grain losses, lower pesticide usage, and ensure sustainable protection of grain reserves.

This paper presents the results of using complex biotechnological methods for in vitro treatment of 16 grape varieties (Vitis vinifera L.) against viral infections. The drug "Kagocel" was used as an antiviral agent in concentrations of 10 and 30 mg/l, both in pure form and in combination with thermotherapy. Diagnostics of plant material for the presence of viral pathogens was carried out using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) before and after treatment. For shoot growth and development and micropropagation of plants, half-strength MS (1/2) medium containing vitamins, iron chelate, supplemented with 30 g/l sucrose and 6.3 g/l agar, without plant growth regulators was used; callus formation, hyperhidrosis or necrosis of shoot tips were not observed. It was found that the efficiency of eliminating raspberry bushy dwarf virus (RBDV) significantly increases with combined treatment - chemotherapy (drug «Kagocel») and in vitro thermotherapy (36-38 °C for 50 days). Elimination of RBDV in variants K10 + T and K30 + T was 77.2% and 79.8%, respectively.

The walnut (Juglans regia L.) is an economically important crop in southern Kazakhstan, where brown spot disease, caused by the fungus Alternaria alternata, poses a serious threat to yield. The objective of this study was to determine whether A. alternata isolates obtained from walnut leaves in orchards located in different climatic zones (Almaty and Turkestan regions) exhibit pathogenic properties in all cases. The fungus was identified based on morphological characteristics and confirmed by PCR analysis. Pathogenicity was assessed through artificial inoculation of walnut leaves under controlled conditions. The results demonstrated that A. alternata exhibits pathogenicity under diverse climatic conditions, inducing brown spot symptoms, including chlorosis and necrosis of leaves. These findings confirm the wide distribution and threat of brown spot and provide a scientific basis for further research aimed at developing effective plant protection strategies.

In the context of agricultural intensification, particular attention is paid to the search for effective agrotechnological solutions aimed at increasing crop yields. One of the promising approaches is the use of protective and stimulating compositions (PSCs) for pre-sowing seed treatment. This article examines the impact of PSCs on the seeding qualities and productivity of spring rapeseed. The results of field experiments conducted in the Kostanay region at LLP "Qazaq Tulpary" are presented, demonstrating the effectiveness of these compositions.

 Raspberries belong to the Rosaceae family (RosaceaLuss.). The genus Rubus L. subgenus raspberry (Idaebatus) includes more than 120 species. Many of them have red, yellow, white or black berries. Various varieties of red raspberries (Rubusidaebatus L.) are grown in production. In recent years, much attention has been paid to the creation of repair-type varieties. Raspberries are one of the most valuable berry crops. It is a short-lived and fruitful crop.

The article discusses the economic efficiency of growing repair raspberries as a promising crop for farms and agricultural enterprises. The analysis of the costs of planting and caring for the plantation, yield, sales level and profitability was carried out. The calculations of efficiency indicators and recommendations for optimizing agricultural technologies to increase profits are presented. The study was conducted in the farms "Aidarbayev", "Khishkov" and the nursery "Semirechye" of the Enbekshikazakh district of the Almaty region. The object of the study was varieties of repair raspberries.  Promising varieties of repair raspberries bred in Russia: Bryanskoe Divo, Caramel, Orange miracle, Nizhegorodets, Raspberry Ridge, Hybrid-39, introduced varieties of Polish breeding – Polka and Polana. Raspberry variety Polka was taken as a control. Repair raspberries are becoming increasingly popular among farmers due to their high yields, the possibility of obtaining two harvests per season and resistance to diseases. In the context of the growing demand for fresh and processed berries, the analysis of the economic feasibility of its cultivation is of particular importance.

The development of sustainable agriculture in Turkmenistan involves implementing water- and resource-saving technologies, digital mapping of agrochemical soil conditions, and introducing resistant high-yield winter wheat varieties. A critical component is effective protection from pests, especially the tortoise bug (Eurygaster integriceps), which can cause significant crop losses if not controlled. This study presents results from field research aimed at biological and chemical pest management strategies. A detailed breeding calendar of the tortoise bug was developed and is now actively used by agricultural specialists. The pest's life cycle, feeding behavior, and economic impact are outlined, including quantitative assessments of damage during various wheat growth stages. Effective countermeasures—such as timely harvesting, crop rotation, biological control agents like Trissolcus grandis, and selective pesticide use—are evaluated. Our results confirm that integrated pest management combining entomophages and modern agronomic practices leads to a healthier, more productive crop. The paper concludes with suggestions for future research and wider application of biological controls in Turkmenistan’s agriculture.

Frequent anomalies in hydrological regimes caused by climate change have raised concerns about widespread agricultural crop losses and increased risks from foodborne pathogens in northern Kazakhstan. To assess the microbial quality of irrigation water, we sampled surface and well water sources used for irrigation in the Northern Kazakhstan region oblast following the major spring flood of 2024. Our survey documented background levels of coliforms and E. coli and refined the field sampling protocol. Overall, the microbial quality of irrigation water from six tested farms and Petropavlovsk was good. Although the risk of foodborne disease transmission was low three months after the flood, we recommend that producers continue to monitor irrigation water for potential contamination by foodborne pathogens.

To collect natural substrates and search for dead insects exhibiting signs of bacteriosis, field surveys were conducted in the ribbon pine forests of the State Natural Forest Reserves "Yertis Ormany" (Pavlodar Region) and "Semey Ormany" (Abay Region). In addition, surveys were carried out in the forested areas of the Burabay Massif (Akmola Region), the forests of East Kazakhstan, shelterbelts of the Kegen, Enbekshikazakh, and Karasay districts, as well as in the natural reserves of the Ile-Alatau State National Park (Almaty Region).

As a result of the conducted research, 580 samples were collected, 479 of which were analyzed, leading to the identification of 30 Bacillus thuringiensis isolates.

The article discusses a system of measures to protect flax from harmful objects in the conditions of the Republic of Belarus. Flax is a strategically important crop that determines the raw material base for the textile and related light industry of the country, so ensuring its phytosanitary safety is of crucial importance. The main attention is paid to the justification of the need for an integrated approach, including agrotechnical, organizational and chemical methods of protection, as well as strict compliance with the requirements of industry regulations.

It is shown that the systematic nature of measures and the consistency of their application can significantly reduce the spread and harmfulness of key pathogens and pests, ensure stable formation of the flax fiber and seed crop, and significantly improve the quality of the final product. The role of regular phytosanitary monitoring, timely diagnostics and the use of scientifically based technologies adapted to regional soil and climatic conditions is emphasized.

The work uses the results of many years of the authors' own research, as well as accumulated production experience, which confirms the practical value of the presented recommendations and conclusions. The obtained data convincingly demonstrate that only comprehensive and consistent implementation of measures to protect flax can guarantee sustainable production, reduce economic losses and maintain the competitiveness of the flax-growing industry in the Republic of Belarus.

The article outlines the key aspects of plant protection against harmful organisms. According to the author, a restructuring of the current situation is necessary, which would significantly enhance the efficiency of this service. These measures include: revising the agrotechnical practice — sowing winter wheat in cotton interrows after two to three harvests of raw cotton in September; additional seed treatment before sowing; improving the quality of bioagents in biolaboratories in accordance with their production technology; precise application of scientifically justified treatment periods; measures to prevent the death of honey bees; stricter compliance with external quarantine requirements amid intensifying interstate trade relations; and others.

Abstract

Under changing climate conditions in the Almaty region, phytosanitary studies of strawberry crops were carried out. It was found that weather anomalies contributed to the weakening of plant immunity and the development of a complex of phytopathogens.

During the phytopathological examination, fungal pathogens were identified: Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium sp., Alternaria sp., Rhizopus sp. A root system damage by nematodes were also detected. Entomological analysis showed infestation of plants with spider mites and thrips. Cases of using pesticides not recommended for strawberries were noted, which led to phytotoxicity and the detection of trace residues in the soil and plants.

The results of the study emphasize the need to adapt plant protection measures considering current climate changes and the phytosanitary assessment of agrochemicals used.

The Asian locust (Locusta migratoria L.) remains one of the most dangerous pests of agricultural crops in arid regions, including southern Kazakhstan. An effective and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical insecticides is the use of entomopathogenic fungi. This study evaluated the pathogenicity of three Beauveria bassiana strains cultivated on rice using solid-state fermentation. The average conidial yield ranged from 2.3×10⁹ to 4.1×10⁹ spores per gram of dry substrate, with viability ranging from 85% to 95%. Bioassays were conducted using an immersion method, exposing locust nymphs to a suspension containing 1×10⁸ conidia/mL. The strain BLе1(k)-07 exhibited the highest virulence, causing up to 95% mortality by the 15th day post-inoculation. The results confirm the high biological activity of the tested strains and demonstrate their potential as effective biocontrol agents. These findings provide a basis for the development of bioinsecticides targeting L. migratoria, with further plans for field trials and formulation improvements for integrated pest management programs in arid agroecosystems.

The article is devoted to the effectiveness of protective and stimulating compositions (PSС) for pre-sowing treatment of flax seeds. Phytoexpertiza of seeds revealed the presence of fungi (Alternaria, Mucor) and bacteria (Pseudomonas, Xanthomonas).

The use of PSС did not reduce the seed quality, but, on the contrary, maintained them at a control level or higher. Significant suppression of pathogenic microflora was noted: the number of diseased seeds decreased from 14.6% (control) to 0.6-14.7% in experimental versions (reference - 0.6%). The most effective combinations were: Vitax + Tabu + Extrasol; Lamador + Tabu + Gufos; Redigo Pro + Tabu + Epin Extra; Celest top + Zircon + Gufos. The results confirm that PSС selected on the basis of phytoexpertiza improve the phytosanitary state of the seeds and contribute to the healthy development of flax. These PSС combinations are recommended for field study.

In conditions of anthropogenic pollution of soils, the development of effective methods of their ecological rehabilitation aimed at restoring natural properties and increasing the stability of ecosystems becomes an urgent task. This paper examines the use of phytoremediation involving stress-resistant plant species in a closed landfill of solid household waste in the city of Kokshetau. Laboratory and field tests of ten crops selected according to the criteria of resistance to heavy metals, growth rate and ability to improve the structure of degraded soils were carried out. The most pronounced adaptive properties, high germination, intensive biomass formation and the formation of a developed root system were noted in meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis), barley (Hordeum vulgare), rapeseed (Brassica napus) and white mustard (Sinapis alba). Additionally, an assessment of phytotoxicity, bioavailability of pollutants, and dynamics of soil profile restoration is presented. Modern approaches to the integration of local plant species and biotechnologies into reclamation processes that reduce environmental risks are considered. The results obtained confirm the high efficiency of adapted crops as a tool for sustainable environmental management and contribute to the development of applied aspects of phytoremediation, applicable in the planning of environmental protection measures at landfills and industrial zones.

Phytophthora infestans is the causative agent of late blight and one of the most economically significant diseases of Solanaceous crops. Detached leaf assays are useful tools to efficiently assess how differing environmental conditions and management controls may affect the infection process and overall disease severity. However, these protocols need refinement to more fully reflect natural infection processes in the field. In a detached leaf assay experiment to study the infection rate and the development of late blight as affected by initial sporangia concentration, greenhouse-grown tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), potato (Solanum tuberosum), and eggplant (Solanum melongena) were used. The study showed a clear dose-dependent response: high concentrations of sporangia (50,000/ml and 10,000/ml) caused rapid and extensive spot formation, while at low concentrations (2,000/ml), symptoms were mild and control leaves remained healthy. The spread of the spots and the percentage of the affected area were assessed using the ImageJ program for 7 days.

The results confirm the effectiveness of the detached leaf method for quantifying pathogen aggressiveness and provide insight into the early stages of host-pathogen interaction.

The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, is one of the most damaging polyphagous pests, affecting a wide range of agricultural crops. Its high reproductive potential, rapid development of resistance to insecticides and acaricides, and environmental adaptability make it a serious threat to crop production. In the present study, for the first time, the resistance of both laboratory and field populations of T. urticae from the Almaty region was evaluated against two widely used pesticides — abamectin and lambda-cyhalothrin. To confirm species identity, molecular identification was performed based on the amplification and sequencing of a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The obtained nucleotide sequences showed a high degree of similarity (≥99%) with reference T. urticae sequences. Pesticide toxicity was assessed using the leaf-dip method, followed by probit analysis to determine lethal concentrations. The results indicated that the laboratory population was highly susceptible to both pesticides, whereas the field population remained sensitive to abamectin but showed signs of reduced sensitivity (low to moderate resistance) to lambda-cyhalothrin. These findings highlight the need for regular monitoring of T. urticae populations for resistance, especially under conditions of intensive pesticide use. Timely adjustments in treatment protocols and the development of integrated pest management strategies — combining chemical, biological, and agronomic approaches — are essential for effective pest control and for mitigating further resistance development.

This study investigated the effectiveness of an integrated pest management system based on biological methods against one of the most dangerous pests affecting cucumber crops (Cucumis sativus L.) under greenhouse conditions – the Aphis gossypii Glover. Weekly monitoring was conducted to identify the species composition of sucking pests and to track their population dynamics. Model plants within the greenhouse were used to assess pest density, and the impact of various biological agents was evaluated. The study found that three releases of the parasitoid Aphidius colemani reduced the Aphis gossypii population by 69.3%. However, due to unfavorable weather conditions at the end of June, the parasitoid’s activity decreased, and the biological product Aktarofit 1.8 (1.0 l/ha) was applied, resulting in an effectiveness of 84.2%. The findings demonstrated that the combined use of entomophages and biological products is an environmentally safe, biologically effective, and modern method of protecting crops from pests. These results can serve as a scientific basis for implementing new biological control strategies in greenhouse farming.

Green plantings have significant ecological and aesthetic importance. However, harmful organisms negatively impact the overall condition of urban green spaces. They weaken trees and shrubs and can eventually lead to their death. Controlling these pests is often difficult due to insufficient knowledge of their species composition and biology in new habitats.

This article describes the forest pathological condition and provides data on the dominant pest species affecting green plantings in the cities of Almaty, Shymkent, Taraz, and Kyzylorda, including their population levels and harmfulness.
As a result of surveys, more than 30 pest species have been identified.

The most dangerous among them are invasive pests such as the oak leafminer sawfly (Profenusa pygmaea Klug), the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys Stål), the horse-chestnut leaf miner (Cameraria ohridella), the elm zigzag sawfly (Aproceros leucopoda Takeuchi, 1939) and the poplar leafminer sawfly (Fenusella hortulana Klug). Also recorded were the cypress jewel beetle (Lamprodila festiva (L.)), leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae), leafrollers (Tortricidae), inchworms (Geometridae), silk moths (Bombyx), and the redheaded pine sawfly (Acantholyda erythrocephala Linnaeus).

The article presents data on local populations of entomophages (parasites, predators) of the codling moth (Cydia pomonella L) and other lepidopteran pests in the gardens of southeastern Kazakhstan and in mountain wild fruit forests on the Sievers apple tree. A specialized entomophage against the codling moth, Mastrus ridens, was identified, which is a promising parasite for breeding and use against the codling moth in gardens. Work was also carried out on laboratory breeding of the codling moth and Mastrus ridens. Breeding of the parasite in laboratory conditions was carried out on 5th-age codling moth caterpillars, at a temperature of 24 0C, humidity of 60%.

To solve the issue of including the entomophage Mastrus ridens in the system of biological protection of the garden from the codling moth, an assessment of the effect of a number of biological and chemical insecticides on compatibility with the ectoparasite was carried out in laboratory conditions.

Considering the significant difficulties with laboratory reproduction of Mastrus ridens, we additionally conducted studies of the parasite - Bracon hebetor Say., maintained in the institute's collection. It was found that Bracon effectively paralyzes codling moth larvae, demonstrating a parasitization rate of 68.7%.