Andrei Pasquali, a researcher from the University of Bologna, Italy, recently completed a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) at Sun’Agri in Castelsarrasin, France. This mission was carried out under the auspices of the FruitCREWS COST Action. From 20 to 31 July, 2026, Andrei worked under the guidance of Dr. Gerardo Lopez Velasco, focusing on the physiological response of Kiwifruit under dynamic agrivoltaics (DAV).
During his mission, Andrei utilized fruit gauges to monitor how different treatments influence fruit growth dynamics. His work involved measuring several physiological parameters, such as photosynthetic rates, transpiration, stomatal conductance and diurnal patterns of organ (stem, leaves, and fruit) water potential, to assess plant water relations. Other measurements included light interception and calculation of the diameter weight conversion equations.
The outcomes of his STSM will directly support the objectives of the FruitCREWS COST Action by improving the understanding of plant water relations and crop physiological responses under dynamic agrivoltaic systems. The data collected will provide valuable insights into how dynamic agrivoltaic shading affects crop water status, gas exchange, and fruit development. These results will help the understanding of plant water relations under different agricultural practices, with a particular focus on improving water use efficiency and optimizing irrigation management in perennial cropping systems.