Field Crop 2024, Vol.7, No.3, 158-170 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 158 Research Insight Open Access Influence of Agronomic Practices on Maize Protein and Starch Contents Xiaojing Yang, Qian Li Modern Agricultural Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding author: qian.li@cuixi.org Field Crop, 2024, Vol.7, No.3 doi: 10.5376/fc.2024.07.0016 Received: 02 Apr., 2024 Accepted: 14 May, 2024 Published: 01 Jun., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Yang and Li, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Yang X.J., and Li Q., 2024, Influence of agronomic practices on maize protein and starch contents, Field Crop, 7(3): 158-170 (doi: 10.5376/fc.2024.07.0016) Abstract As a globally important food crop and feed source, the protein and starch content of maize (Zeamays L.) directly affects its nutritional value and industrial applications. This study delves into the impact of agronomic practices on the protein and starch content of maize. Through a comprehensive analysis of fertilization strategies, irrigation techniques, crop rotation and soil management, planting density, and spacing, the mechanisms by which these practices affect maize composition are revealed. Additionally, the study explores the influence of environmental factors such as climate and soil type on protein and starch content, as well as the interactions between agronomic practices and environmental factors. The findings indicate that proper fertilization and irrigation management can significantly increase the protein and starch content of maize, while crop rotation and soil management help maintain soil fertility, providing a favorable environment for maize growth. Moreover, optimizing planting density and spacing can enhance photosynthesis in maize plants, thereby affecting the accumulation of protein and starch. The impact of climatic conditions and soil types on maize composition is also significant. This study also introduces the application advancements of genomic methods, precision agriculture, and biotechnological interventions in improving maize quality, providing new insights for future research and practice. The aim of this study is to enhance the nutritional value and market competitiveness of maize, offering practical technical guidance for agricultural producers. Keywords Maize (Zeamays L.); Protein; Starch; Agronomic practices; Environmental factors 1 Introduction Maize (Zeamays L.) is one of the most significant cereal crops globally, serving as a staple food for humans and livestock. The composition of maize kernels is predominantly carbohydrates, which constitute approximately 70% of the kernel's weight. However, maize is also a crucial source of protein, especially in developing countries where it is a primary dietary component (Roodt, 2022). The protein content in maize is characterized by a high proportion of seed storage proteins, which are deficient in several essential amino acids such as lysine, methionine, and tryptophan (Roodt, 2022). This deficiency poses a challenge for nutrition, as these amino acids are vital for human and animal health. Its unique composition, particularly the protein and starch content, determines the nutritional value and industrial applications of maize. Protein and starch are two critical components of maize that significantly influence its nutritional and industrial value. Protein in maize is essential for human and animal nutrition, but its quality is often limited by the low levels of essential amino acids (Roodt, 2022). Efforts to enhance the amino acid profile of maize through genetic and agronomic practices have been ongoing, with varying degrees of success (Roodt, 2022). Starch, on the other hand, is a major carbohydrate source and plays a crucial role in the energy supply for both humans and livestock. It also has significant industrial applications, including its use in the production of biofuels, sweeteners, and biodegradable materials (Hasan and Al-Musawi, 2023). With population growth and economic development, the demand for maize is increasing, making the improvement of maize quality and yield a key issue in agricultural production. Agricultural practices, including cultivation methods, fertilizer use, irrigation management, and pest control, have a direct impact on the growth, development, and final yield of maize. These practices can not only increase the yield of maize but also optimize its nutritional composition (Duvick, 2005). In recent years, with continuous advancements in agricultural technology, an increasing number of studies have focused on exploring the effects of different agronomic practices on maize
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