Iron deficiency is a common issue affecting plant growth, particularly in calciferous soils where the availability of iron is limited. Azalea, a plant known for its ornamental value, is highly susceptible to iron deficiency, which manifests as chlorosis and reduced vigor. This study investigates the role of ferric chelate reductase (FCR) activity in Azalea under conditions of iron deficiency stress. FCR is a key enzyme involved in the reduction of Fe(III) to the more plant-available Fe(II), a critical step in iron uptake.

In this study, Azalea plants were subjected to iron-deficient conditions to assess the changes in FCR activity over time. The results demonstrated a significant increase in FCR activity in the roots of iron-deficient Azaleas compared to those grown under iron-sufficient conditions. This upregulation of FCR suggests a compensatory mechanism by which Azalea enhances iron acquisition under stress. Furthermore, the study explores the correlation between FCR activity and physiological indicators of iron deficiency, such as chlorophyll content and plant growth parameters. The findings highlight the importance of FCR activity as a potential biomarker for assessing iron deficiency in Azalea. Understanding the enzymatic responses of Azalea to iron deficiency stress can aid in developing strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of nutrient deficiencies, improving plant health and ornamental quality.

One of the most convenient ways to increase soil fertility is siderate crops. They enrich the soil with organic matter, increase the activity of microorganisms in the soil and enrich the soil with necessary nutrients due to biomass.

Participatory Forest Management (PFM) has emerged as a collaborative approach aimed at enhancing forest conservation while improving local livelihoods. This study assesses the community-perceived impacts of PFM on local livelihoods by examining the experiences and viewpoints of community members involved in PFM initiatives. Through a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, data were collected from various communities engaged in PFM programs across diverse regions. The findings reveal that PFM initiatives have generally been perceived positively by local communities, contributing to various aspects of livelihood improvement.

Key benefits reported include increased access to forest resources, enhanced income through sustainable forestry practices, and improved community cohesion and capacity. Participants highlighted that PFM has facilitated better forest management, leading to the restoration of degraded areas and the protection of biodiversity, which in turn supports local economic activities.

However, challenges also emerged, including concerns about the equitable distribution of benefits, conflicts over resource use, and the adequacy of support provided to communities. Some respondents indicated that the benefits of PFM have not been uniformly experienced, with marginalized groups often facing difficulties in accessing the promised advantages. Additionally, the sustainability of PFM benefits was questioned, with some communities expressing concerns about the long-term effectiveness of management practices.

This study underscores the importance of addressing these challenges to maximize the positive impacts of PFM on local livelihoods. It suggests that for PFM to be more effective, it must ensure inclusive participation, equitable benefit-sharing, and ongoing support and adaptation to community needs. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders involved in forest management and community development, aiming to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of PFM programs.

The global decline of plant species exerts a significant detrimental impact on the stability of natural ecosystems. Endemic species with restricted geographical distributions are at risk of extinction in their natural habitats. Consequently, the investigation of rare plant species, the analysis of their current status, and the development of conservation measures are of substantial scientific and practical significance. Astragalus knorringianus Boriss. represents one such critical plant species.