Matera, Italy
A new AgNUE supersite in southern Italy focused on Mediterranean durum wheat systems.
Status:
New complete supersite
Lead institution: University of Basilicata
Soil type:
Vertisol
Supersite lead:
Daniele De Rosa
Why the supersite?
The Italy supersite will help AgNUE study nitrogen mitigation in Mediterranean durum wheat production in Matera, southeastern Italy. The region is a major centre for durum wheat production, where high temperatures, low soil organic matter and recurrent wetting–drying cycles driven by irregular rainfall can constrain nitrogen use efficiency and increase the risk of nitrogen losses. These conditions can contribute to multiple nitrogen loss pathways, including nitrate leaching and N₂O, NH₃ and NOₓ emissions. The site is therefore particularly relevant for comparing reduced nitrogen rates, nitrification inhibitors, split applications, foliar nutrient delivery and crop rotation strategies.
What this site helps AgNUE compare
This site gives AgNUE a representative Mediterranean setting to compare nitrogen management strategies in durum wheat where rainfall variability and high temperatures strongly influence nitrogen availability, crop uptake and losses . It allows assess how fertiliser rate and timing, inhibitors, foliar approaches and crop rotation can improve nitrogen use efficiency and reduce nitrogen losses.
Mediterranean durum wheat
Represents a major durum wheat production region in southern Italy under Mediterranean conditions.
Erratic rainfall and low NUE
Provides a setting to investigate nitrogen management where variable rainfall and low soil organic matter can constrain nitrogen use efficiency.
Multiple nitrogen loss pathways
Supports simultaneous assessment of nitrate leaching and gaseous nitrogen losses, including N₂O, NH₃ and NOₓ.
Timing and foliar strategies
Allows evaluation of split applications, nitrification inhibitors, foliar nutrient delivery, biostimulants and tailored rotations to improve nitrogen use efficiency and reduce nitrogen losses.
From supersites to impact
A shared pathway across the AgNUE platform.
Explore images from the supersite
Dive into a selection of images revealing the agricultural landscapes and research activities at our Sinderhoeve supersite.
Discover our other supersites
There are 12 supersites connected to the AgNUE platform. Explore them here.