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## Meet the editor

Francesco Lops obtained a Ph.D. in Forest Plant Pathology from the Institute of Plant Pathology, University of Bologna, Italy, with research on chromogenic fungi's role in pine forest decay conducted at the Consortium Center, University of Basilicata, Italy. He held a National Research Council scholarship on fungal disease transmission and plant defense at the University of Turin, Italy, from 1995 to 1996. Dr. Lops was a post-doctoral

scholar at the University of Bari, Italy from 1996 to 1997. In 2001, he won a university research competition. He became Associate Professor in Plant Pathology at the University of Foggia, Italy, in 2006. He contributes to the regional Xylella emergency task force in Puglia, Italy.

### Contents


#### **Chapter 6 135**

The Use of Static Magnetic Field on Irrigation Water and Its Effect on Mineral and Nutrient Content in *Solanum lycopersicum* L. *by Albys Esther Ferrer Dubois, Yilan Fung Boix, Clara Martínez Manrique, Liliana Gómez Luna, Elizabeth Isaac Aleman, Sophie Hendrix, Natalie Beenaerts and Ann Cuypers*

Preface

This collection of essays provides a deep dive into the intricate dynamics that define tomato cultivation, a plant that extends beyond its culinary role to become a crucial subject of study in the fields of agronomy and biology. Divided into two distinct sections - "Biological Interactions" and "Agronomic Practices" - the work presents a detailed analysis of the challenges and innovations that characterize the complex

The first section, "Biological Interactions", introduces us to the realm of beneficial microorganisms with a particular focus on the Bacillus genus. Chapter 1 explores these Gram-positive bacteria's potential in the biological control of phytopathogens. From the direct suppression of microbial germination to the stimulation of plant development, the Bacillus genus emerges as a multifunctional agent. The detailed analysis reveals the production of antifungal compounds that play a crucial role in preventing and controlling plant diseases. This section provides a comprehensive framework of the strategies adopted by Bacillus, with special emphasis on its role as a

Chapter 2 focuses on the impact of root-knot nematodes on tomatoes. Examining current management strategies, the work highlights the importance of addressing these pathogens sustainably. Through the analysis of molecular interactions between tomatoes and nematodes, the work offers insights into future strategies to enhance

Finally, we conclude this section by exploring innovations in biological seed coatings. Delving into the rapidly growing world of this practice in the global seed market, Chapter 3 highlights how the application of beneficial microorganisms to seeds can provide protective coverage, improve shelf life, and promote healthier plant growth. This section reveals how biological practices can offer sustainable alternatives to

The second section, "Agronomic Practices", outlines innovative approaches to tomato crop management. Chapter 4 focuses on advanced technologies in greenhouse cultivation and their impact on the Mediterranean region. Examining technological developments and trends in the use of treated wastewater, the work projects a future where sustainability merges with productivity, crucial to addressing the effects of

Chapter 5 delves into environmental challenges, providing innovative strategies to improve tomato productivity under stressful conditions. Using techniques such as "seed priming" and "mechanical conditioning," the work offers practical perspectives

to overcome environmental obstacles and enhance crop resilience.

landscape of pomological research.

plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium.

traditional chemical methodologies.

plant resistance.

climate change.

## Preface

This collection of essays provides a deep dive into the intricate dynamics that define tomato cultivation, a plant that extends beyond its culinary role to become a crucial subject of study in the fields of agronomy and biology. Divided into two distinct sections - "Biological Interactions" and "Agronomic Practices" - the work presents a detailed analysis of the challenges and innovations that characterize the complex landscape of pomological research.

The first section, "Biological Interactions", introduces us to the realm of beneficial microorganisms with a particular focus on the Bacillus genus. Chapter 1 explores these Gram-positive bacteria's potential in the biological control of phytopathogens. From the direct suppression of microbial germination to the stimulation of plant development, the Bacillus genus emerges as a multifunctional agent. The detailed analysis reveals the production of antifungal compounds that play a crucial role in preventing and controlling plant diseases. This section provides a comprehensive framework of the strategies adopted by Bacillus, with special emphasis on its role as a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium.

Chapter 2 focuses on the impact of root-knot nematodes on tomatoes. Examining current management strategies, the work highlights the importance of addressing these pathogens sustainably. Through the analysis of molecular interactions between tomatoes and nematodes, the work offers insights into future strategies to enhance plant resistance.

Finally, we conclude this section by exploring innovations in biological seed coatings. Delving into the rapidly growing world of this practice in the global seed market, Chapter 3 highlights how the application of beneficial microorganisms to seeds can provide protective coverage, improve shelf life, and promote healthier plant growth. This section reveals how biological practices can offer sustainable alternatives to traditional chemical methodologies.

The second section, "Agronomic Practices", outlines innovative approaches to tomato crop management. Chapter 4 focuses on advanced technologies in greenhouse cultivation and their impact on the Mediterranean region. Examining technological developments and trends in the use of treated wastewater, the work projects a future where sustainability merges with productivity, crucial to addressing the effects of climate change.

Chapter 5 delves into environmental challenges, providing innovative strategies to improve tomato productivity under stressful conditions. Using techniques such as "seed priming" and "mechanical conditioning," the work offers practical perspectives to overcome environmental obstacles and enhance crop resilience.

Finally, we conclude this section with a glimpse into the future of tomato crop management through the use of static magnetic fields in irrigation. Examining the effect on minerals and nutrients, Chapter 6 emphasizes how this technology can improve plant nutrition and increase the nutraceutical value of fruits.

In conclusion, this collection of research works not only provides a comprehensive overview of the world of tomato cultivation but also offers practical solutions to address current and future challenges. We hope this preface and the subsequent works are a valuable resource for those seeking significant advancements in sustainable tomato production.

**Francesco Lops** Department of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering (DAFNE), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy

Section 1

Biological Interactions

Section 1
