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The aim of the study was to analyse the impact of innovative approaches to cereal cultivation in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine. The study used the latest plant varieties, efficient irrigation systems and biological products to increase crop yields and resilience. The wheat varieties used were Stepova 1 and Dniprovska 1, as well as Pivdennyi 1 barley, which are highly resistant to drought and high temperatures. Drip and sub-surface irrigation systems were used, as well as bio-fertilisers and organic composts to improve soil structure and increase soil fertility. The main results of the study showed that wheat yields in the experimental groups reached 5.2-5.7 tonnes/ha, which is 1.8-1.9 tonnes/ha more than in the control groups. Water consumption in the experimental groups was reduced by 35-40%, and the cost of plant protection products by 45-50%. The protein content of wheat in the experimental groups was 14-15% and the fibre content was 30-32%, while in the control groups it was 11-12% and 25-27%, respectively. Soil analysis in the experimental groups showed higher levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which indicates the effectiveness of biofertilisers. In addition, the use of biological products helped to reduce the chemical load on the environment. The results obtained indicate a significant increase in productivity, reduced resource use and improved environmental sustainability with the introduction of innovative methods of growing crops in this region, which is important for ensuring food security and economic development in Ukraine

Abstract Microalgae and seaweed have been consumed as food for several decades to combat starvation and food shortages worldwide. The most famous edible microalgae species are Nostoc, Spirulina, and Aphanizomenon, in addition to seaweeds, which are used in traditional medicine and food, such as Nori, which is one of the most popular foods containing Pyropia alga as a major ingredient. Recently, many applications use algae-derived polysaccharides such as agar, alginate, carrageenan, cellulose, fucoidan, mannan, laminarin, ulvan, and xylan as gelling agents in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics industries. Moreover, pigments (carotenoids particularly astaxanthins, chlorophylls, and phycobilins), minerals, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, peptides, proteins, polyphenols, and diterpenes compounds are accumulated under specific cultivation and stress conditions in the algal cells to be harvested and their biomass used as a feedstock for the relevant industries and applications. No less critical is the use of algae in bioremediation, thus contributing significantly to environmental sustainability. This review will explore and discuss the various applications of microalgae and seaweeds, emphasising their role in bioremediation, recent products with algal added-value compounds that are now on the market, and novel under-developing applications such as bioplastics and nanoparticle production. Nonetheless, special attention is also drawn towards the limitations of these applications and the technologies applied, and how they may be overcome.

The aim of the study was to analyse the impact of innovative approaches to cereal cultivation in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine. The study used the latest plant varieties, efficient irrigation systems and biological products to increase crop yields and resilience. The wheat varieties used were Stepova 1 and Dniprovska 1, as well as Pivdennyi 1 barley, which are highly resistant to drought and high temperatures. Drip and sub-surface irrigation systems were used, as well as bio-fertilisers and organic composts to improve soil structure and increase soil fertility. The main results of the study showed that wheat yields in the experimental groups reached 5.2-5.7 tonnes/ha, which is 1.8-1.9 tonnes/ha more than in the control groups. Water consumption in the experimental groups was reduced by 35-40%, and the cost of plant protection products by 45-50%. The protein content of wheat in the experimental groups was 14-15% and the fibre content was 30-32%, while in the control groups it was 11-12% and 25-27%, respectively. Soil analysis in the experimental groups showed higher levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which indicates the effectiveness of biofertilisers. In addition, the use of biological products helped to reduce the chemical load on the environment. The results obtained indicate a significant increase in productivity, reduced resource use and improved environmental sustainability with the introduction of innovative methods of growing crops in this region, which is important for ensuring food security and economic development in Ukraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae and seaweed have been consumed as food for several decades to combat starvation and food shortages worldwide. The most famous edible microalgae species are Nostoc, Spirulina, and Aphanizomenon, in addition to seaweeds, which are used in traditional medicine and food, such as Nori, which is one of the most popular foods containing Pyropia alga as a major ingredient. Recently, many applications use algae-derived polysaccharides such as agar, alginate, carrageenan, cellulose, fucoidan, mannan, laminarin, ulvan, and xylan as gelling agents in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics industries. Moreover, pigments (carotenoids particularly astaxanthins, chlorophylls, and phycobilins), minerals, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, peptides, proteins, polyphenols, and diterpenes compounds are accumulated under specific cultivation and stress conditions in the algal cells to be harvested and their biomass used as a feedstock for the relevant industries and applications. No less critical is the use of algae in bioremediation, thus contributing significantly to environmental sustainability. This review will explore and discuss the various applications of microalgae and seaweeds, emphasising their role in bioremediation, recent products with algal added-value compounds that are now on the market, and novel under-developing applications such as bioplastics and nanoparticle production. Nonetheless, special attention is also drawn towards the limitations of these applications and the technologies applied, and how they may be overcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Catha edulis, commonly called as khat or chat is an evergreen plant cultivated in Ethiopia for its stimulant leaves. The young leaves are chewed as a part of social recreation and the older leaves along with the twigs are discarded. This forms the major part of municipal solid waste that is dumped in large quantity in Harar region. The present study was carried in Haramaya University, Ethiopia to decompose the khat wastes along with crop residues and different animal manures (cow dung, goat manure, poultry manure and swine manure) using the earthworm Eisenia foetida. Methods The collected khat wastes along with crop residues and different animal manures were vermicomposted and assessed for nutrient contents using standard procedures. Results The result of the experiment indicated that all the parameters were improved by the decomposition using earthworms and the C/N ratio was within the limits that indicate the maturity of the compost. The organic carbon, organic matter, total nitrogen, phosphorus, copper, iron, zinc and manganese contents were analyzed and found to be improved after decomposition. The added crop residues and animal manures enhanced the decomposition process and manurial value of the khat leaf waste. Conclusion The nutrient content of the vermicomposts revealed khat to be a suitable substrate for vermicomposting thereby making efficient utilization of solid wastes. This can be an effective technology to reduce the solid waste and the resultant product can be used for improving soil fertility and crop production by the farmers.

The main goal of our study was to find an optimal combination of tested factors to achieve lettuce rich in bioactive compounds sustaining its pleasant taste. We examined three red and three green cultivars in a greenhouse using two microbiological fertilisers (EM Aktiv and Vital Tricho), and their combination. Plants were grown in three consecutive growing seasons (autumn, winter, and spring). Lactones accumulated in autumn, whereas phenolics' concentration rose during winter. Red cultivars showed higher phenolics and lactone content, where chicoric acid and luteolin-7-glucoside were the most abundant in the 'Gaugin' winter trial. Lactucopicrin was the predominant lactone among tested cultivars with the highest value in the red cultivar 'Carmesi'. Solely applicated, the fertiliser EM Aktiv and Vital Tricho led to significantly higher phenolic acid and dihydrolactucopicrin content, while combined, there were notably increased levels of all detected lactones. Application of single fertilisers had no effect on flavonoid content, while the combination even reduced it. A sensory analysis showed a negative correlation between overall taste and total sesquiterpene lactones, lactucopicrin, caffeoylmalic, and chlorogenic acid, indicating a less bitter taste with decreasing content of these compounds. Our findings indicate that the cultivar, fertiliser, and growing season jointly affected all of the tested parameters, highlighting the differences in the application of EM Aktiv, Vital Tricho, and their combination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of our study was to find an optimal combination of tested factors to achieve lettuce rich in bioactive compounds sustaining its pleasant taste. We examined three red and three green cultivars in a greenhouse using two microbiological fertilisers (EM Aktiv and Vital Tricho), and their combination. Plants were grown in three consecutive growing seasons (autumn, winter, and spring). Lactones accumulated in autumn, whereas phenolics’ concentration rose during winter. Red cultivars showed higher phenolics and lactone content, where chicoric acid and luteolin-7-glucoside were the most abundant in the ‘Gaugin’ winter trial. Lactucopicrin was the predominant lactone among tested cultivars with the highest value in the red cultivar ‘Carmesi’. Solely applicated, the fertiliser EM Aktiv and Vital Tricho led to significantly higher phenolic acid and dihydrolactucopicrin content, while combined, there were notably increased levels of all detected lactones. Application of single fertilisers had no effect on flavonoid content, while the combination even reduced it. A sensory analysis showed a negative correlation between overall taste and total sesquiterpene lactones, lactucopicrin, caffeoylmalic, and chlorogenic acid, indicating a less bitter taste with decreasing content of these compounds. Our findings indicate that the cultivar, fertiliser, and growing season jointly affected all of the tested parameters, highlighting the differences in the application of EM Aktiv, Vital Tricho, and their combination.

A two-year field trial was conducted to study the effects of biohumus, biofertiliser, and soil conditioner application on spelt grain yield in different regions (plain, hilly, and mountainous regions) in Serbia. An analysis of economic efficiency indicators of spelt production in organic farming systems was also performed. The field experiment had a randomised complete block design with three replicates in each of the three regions. One winter spelt cultivar was also studied. The largest differences in spelt yield compared to control were found in the plain region in the biohumus + biofertiliser treatment (28.0%) and the hilly region in the organic fertiliser + zeolite treatment (28.8%). The differences in grain yield between control and treatment conditions in the mountain region were insignificant. Analysis of the economic effects of organic spelt production found a significantly lower gross margin in treatments with expensive organic fertilisers (3955.05 and 1104.75 € ha–1) than the control (5094.31 and 1833.85 € ha–1), leading to the conclusion that their application was not economically justified despite the increases in grain yield. The highest production costs (3569.71 € ha–1) were observed in treatments in the hilly region, resulting in the lowest benefit-cost ratio (0.1), while the greatest benefit-cost ratio was recorded in treatments in the mountainous region (2.1). Following the economic analysis results, a significant negative correlation between the benefit-cost ratio and the total production costs (r= –0.91**) was determined and a positive correlation between the gross margin and grain yield (r=0.66*). These results lead to the conclusion that the management strategy of spelt production in organic farming systems should be harmonised with the soil and agro-ecological characteristics of the region and directed at decreasing the costs and share of external inputs. In this case, organic spelt production can be economically profitable. Highlights - Organic fertilisers and soil conditioners affect spelt grain yield. - The analysis of the economic effects of organic spelt production concluded that fertiliser application was not economically justified despite the increases in grain yield. - Treatments in the plain region displayed the best production results compared to mountain region treatments, but these did not have the best benefit-cost ratio. - Knowledge of production costs is an important element in improving the economic efficiency of organic farming systems.

In the present study, we reported the isolation and molecular characterisation of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase-producing endophyte and its effect on alleviating drought stress in maize. Ten morphologically distinct indigenous plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) from maize roots and rhizosphere were screened for multiple plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits, and of ten, two strains (DHK and B1N1) possessing maximum PGP traits were evaluated at three water stress regimes in maize: (i) 80% field capacity (FC), (ii) 60% FC, and (iii) 40% FC for 45 days, starting 15 days after sowing to the maturity. Inoculation of DHK strain with maize at 80% FC induced a significant increase in plant biomass (root biomass, 86.67%; shoot biomass, 111.63%) together with decreased reactive oxygen species and increased activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, 14.11 U/g fresh weight; peroxidase, 1.14 U/g fresh weight and catalase; 14.91 U/g fresh weight) compared to uninoculated control at same water regime (80% FC). The derivative strain also significantly accrued nutrients in maize and enhanced total chlorophyll and amino acid content in comparison with non-inoculated plants. 16S rDNA analysis of DHK strain revealed its lineage to Bacillus subtilis. Present investigations demonstrated the potential of the bacterial partner in alleviating drought stress in maize.

Adoption of microbial consortia as plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) instead of single-strain inoculants is discussed as an approach to increase the efficiency and flexibility of PGPM-assisted production strategies. This study provides the functional characterisation of a commercial microbial consortia product (MCP) in a series of greenhouse experiments with maize on a silty-loam field soil (pH 5.9). A 60%-increased abundance of bacteria that could be cultivated after rhizosphere extraction was measured after MCP inoculation at the end of the 42-days culture period. MCP inoculation did not stimulate shoot biomass production of maize fertilised with nitrate, but growth improvement was recorded in combination with stabilised ammonium, especially with reduced phosphorus (P) supply. The MCP inoculant improved the acquisition of ammonium-N but also increased shoot-P. MCP inoculation stimulated root length development under reduced P supply with stabilised ammonium by 52%. This was accompanied by the increased auxin production capacity of rhizosphere bacteria. C-, N-, and P-turnover in the rhizosphere were little affected by the MCP inoculation, as deduced from the analysis of activities of extracellular soil enzymes. The findings suggest that the form of N supply is crucial for the efficiency of plant-MCP interactions.

The integration of healthy management alternatives continues to be a challenge in the organic production of aromatic and medicinal plants, including of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.). The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of three beneficial microorganisms (1) Trichoderma harzianum (TH), (2) Bacillus subtilis (BS), (3) Glomus cubense (GC) and their combinations on the growth of basil. A completely randomised design was used with a control and seven treatments with six repetitions. The control (1) was with no microorganism inoculation and the seven treatments were inoculations with the single or the combined microorganisms as follows: (2) TH, (3) BS, (4) GC, (5) TH+BS, (6) TH+GC, (7) BS+GC and (8) TH+BS+GC. Three harvests of fresh biomass were made and a number of growth variables were recorded: fresh and dry biomass, leaf area, number of commercial stems, stem length and thickness, Leaf length and width, relative chlorophyll concentration (SPAD readings) and the levels of N, P, K, Ca and Mg. Overall growth increased by 58% with TH+GC compared with the control and by 55% compared with the single inoculations (TH, BS and GC) and with the triple inoculation (TH+BS+GC). A growth increase of 51% was obtained with BS+GC compared with the control and of 38% compared with the other treatments. These results indicate co-inoculation of TH+GC or of BS+GC are useful alternative managements to increase greenhouse production of basil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are strains of naturally occurring soil bacteria that live in close vicinity to the plant's rhizosphere region which possess the capability to augment host growth. This study was conducted to isolate and identify potential PGPR isolates indigenous to Metroxylon sagu, Rottb. rhizosphere. These potential isolates were characterised based on their beneficial plant growth promoting (PGP) properties and identified by molecular analysis via 16S rDNA sequencing. A total of 18 isolates were successfully isolated, out of which five isolates were tested, and designated as (S1A, S2B, S3A, S3C and S42). Among the five isolates, two isolates (S2B and S3C) were found to produce high levels of indole-3-acetic acid (2.96 µg/mL and 10.31 μg/mL), able to fix nitrogen and show significant activity in phosphate solubilisation. The analysis of their sequences via National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) suggested their close identity towards Lysinibacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis. It can be concluded that the isolated PGPR possesses beneficial PGP attributes. It can be implied that the isolated PGPR are potential to be used as inoculant biofertilisers, beneficial for Metroxylon sagu, Rottb. growth. Hence, further studies need to be done to evaluate the effectiveness of the beneficial microbes towards sago seedlings growth, under pot experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms promised to lead the bio-based revolution for a more sustainable agriculture. Beneficial microorganisms could be a valid alternative to the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. However, the increasing use of microbial inoculants is also raising several questions about their efficacy and their effects on the autochthonous soil microorganisms. There are two major issues on the application of bioinoculants to soil: (i) their detection in soil, and the analysis of their persistence and fate; (ii) the monitoring of the impact of the introduced bioinoculant on native soil microbial communities. This review explores the strategies and methods that can be applied to the detection of microbial inoculants and to soil monitoring. The discussion includes a comprehensive critical assessment of the available tools, based on morpho-phenological, molecular, and microscopic analyses. The prospects for future development of protocols for regulatory or commercial purposes are also discussed, underlining the need for a multi-method (polyphasic) approach to ensure the necessary level of discrimination required to track and monitor bioinoculants in soil.

Microorganisms promised to lead the bio-based revolution for a more sustainable agriculture. Beneficial microorganisms could be a valid alternative to the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. However, the increasing use of microbial inoculants is also raising several questions about their efficacy and their effects on the autochthonous soil microorganisms. There are two major issues on the application of bioinoculants to soil: (i) their detection in soil, and the analysis of their persistence and fate; (ii) the monitoring of the impact of the introduced bioinoculant on native soil microbial communities. This review explores the strategies and methods that can be applied to the detection of microbial inoculants and to soil monitoring. The discussion includes a comprehensive critical assessment of the available tools, based on morpho-phenological, molecular, and microscopic analyses. The prospects for future development of protocols for regulatory or commercial purposes are also discussed, underlining the need for a multi-method (polyphasic) approach to ensure the necessary level of discrimination required to track and monitor bioinoculants in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adoption of microbial consortia as plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) instead of singlestrain inoculants is discussed as an approach to increase the efficiency and flexibility of PGPM-assisted production strategies. This study provides the functional characterisation of a commercial microbial consortia product (MCP) in a series of greenhouse experiments with maize on a silty-loam field soil (pH 5.9). A 60%-increased abundance of bacteria that could be cultivated after rhizosphere extraction was measured after MCP inoculation at the end of the 42-days culture period. MCP inoculation did not stimulate shoot biomass production of maize fertilised with nitrate, but growth improvement was recorded in combination with stabilised ammonium, especially with reduced phosphorus (P) supply. The MCP inoculant improved the acquisition of ammonium-N but also increased shoot-P. MCP inoculation stimulated root length development under reduced P supply with stabilised ammonium by 52%. This was accompanied by the increased auxin production capacity of rhizosphere bacteria. C-, N-, and P-turnover in the rhizosphere were little affected by the MCP inoculation, as deduced from the analysis of activities of extracellular soil enzymes. The findings suggest that the form of N supply is crucial for the efficiency of plant-MCP interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To show the benefits of organic agriculture, safe and sustainable production, the present research was performed in an open field (new reclaimed area of desert) of Wadi El-Notron, Beheira Governorate, Egypt, for two successive years (2013 and 2014) aimed at a better understanding and to investigate the role of alternative source of chemical fertilisers represented by humic substances, natural nano-zeolite-loaded nitrogen and biofertilisers (HNB) on yield, morphological, leaf and seed anatomy, chemical compositions reflected in macro and micro nutrients, indigenous hormones, plant pigments, total carbohydrates, ascorbic acid, thiamine, total phenolics, total flavonoids, total fatty acids, oil yield and constituents of caraway (Carum carvi L.) plants. Our results revealed that plants receiving a combination treatment (HNB) recorded significant increases over control in both growing seasons. Moreover, economic evaluation reflects the profound influence of combination treatment (HNB) that realized the maximum gross income and minimum production cost. These findings emphasize the magnitude of the role of natural soil additions and organic fertilisers in mitigating environmental pollution while providing safe production and also minimizing total costs of chemical fertilisers.

Facing phosphate rock scarcity, growing food requirements and pollution problems with phosphorus (P)-containing waste, re-using P as fertiliser is becoming a real need. Innovative fertilisers from sewage sludge ash, animal bones and blood, activated by phosphorus solubilising microorganisms (PSM), were tested in field experiments with winter or spring wheat and compared with commercial fertilisers (superphosphate, phosphorite). Three levels of P doses were established (17.6, 26.4 and 35.2 kg/ha). This paper discusses the fertilisers' impact on total soil P content and on the P content and P accumulation in wheat grain and straw, weeds and post-harvest residues. Recycled fertilisers maintained soil P stocks and supplied plants with P in the same way as traditional fertilisers, and ensured a comparable P pool in the post-harvest residues to traditional fertilisers. They also did not favour weeds during competitive crop-weed interactions. The PSM included in waste-fertilisers did not exert an evident effect on the soil P content or on the P content and P accumulation in plant biomass. The findings show the potential of recycled fertilisers to act as a substitute to fertilisers from primary sources. Further field research is needed to settle the question of the reasonability of PSM inclusion into fertilisers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pepper has a relatively large share in the general structure of the vegetable production in Bulgaria. The objective of this research was to investigate the influence of biofertiliser Emosan (HemoZym NK, Hemozym Bio N5) in combination with biofertilisers Lumbrical and Boneprot, as well as the influence of certain agrometeorological conditions on the phenological growth of pepper cv. ‘Sofiiska Kapiya’. This experiment was carried out in 2009 – 2011 on the experimental fields of the Agroecological Centre at the Agricultural University Plovdiv (Bulgaria). The pepper was grown using existing technology for mid-early field production, according to the principles of organic agriculture. The agroclimatic characteristics were taken on the basis of data of twenty-four-hour performance of meteorological factors. In the three years of the experiment the temperature conditions during the period of active vegetation of the pepper (June - July - August) were above the average, which was in conjunction with the global trends. The application of biofertiliser Emosan, in combination with basic fertilization with biofertilisers Boneprot and Lumbrical and under the impact of suitable agrometeorological conditions, had a positive impact on the pepper plants. Pepper plants showed earlier entry into the main phenophases under field conditions of organic farming.

Complex microbial communities in the plant rhizosphere are responsible for their success in ecosystems. Supplementary inoculation of soil with mycorrhizal fungi and rhizospheric bacteria may act as a plant growth-promoting factor. The present study aims to assess the potential use of biofertilisers on tomato as a way of increasing yield and stability of root exploration area. The experiment was set up in greenhouse, regarding the evaluation of growing dynamics of plants, mycorrhization level and obtained yield. The identification of effective inoculation variants can lead to a standardisation of technologies of growing for local plant genotypes. Data analysis was performed based on the ANOVA test, followed by Tukey HSD, principal component analysis and cluster analysis in order to identify the potential of bioproducts to stimulate the development of tomato plants. Application of bacterial biofertilisers does not stimulate enough the aboveground development of plants. An antagonistic reaction is visible between exogenous mycorrhizas and those specific in soil, acting slightly different for each genotype. Mycorrhizal level in root systems is more dependent on applied biofertilisers than on analyzed genotypes. For the variants without additional fertilisers, a high level of mycorrhization is visible only after 75 days from the transplantation. Based on results we can conclude that microbial active fertilisers may represent viable solutions to increase yield capacity and root exploration area for local tomato genotypes.

Facing phosphate rock scarcity, growing food requirements and pollution problems with phosphorus (P)-containing waste, re-using P as fertiliser is becoming a real need. Innovative fertilisers from sewage sludge ash, animal bones and blood, activated by phosphorus solubilising microorganisms (PSM), were tested in field experiments with winter or spring wheat and compared with commercial fertilisers (superphosphate, phosphorite). Three levels of P doses were established (17.6, 26.4 and 35.2 kg/ha). This paper discusses the fertilisers’ impact on total soil P content and on the P content and P accumulation in wheat grain and straw, weeds and post-harvest residues. Recycled fertilisers maintained soil P stocks and supplied plants with P in the same way as traditional fertilisers, and ensured a comparable P pool in the post-harvest residues to traditional fertilisers. They also did not favour weeds during competitive crop-weed interactions. The PSM included in waste-fertilisers did not exert an evident effect on the soil P content or on the P content and P accumulation in plant biomass. The findings show the potential of recycled fertilisers to act as a substitute to fertilisers from primary sources. Further field research is needed to settle the question of the reasonability of PSM inclusion into fertilisers.

Modern agriculture is dependent on phosphate rock (PR), which is a nonrenewable resource. Improvement of phosphorus (P) availability for crops in agricultural soils represents a key strategy to slow down the depletion of PR. The aim of this study was to identify potential P biofertilisers among saprotrophic fungal species. We tested 30 fungal strains belonging to 28 taxa (4 Zygomycota and 24 Ascomycota) and with different life strategies. The study showed that many saprotrophic fungi have the ability to mobilise P from insoluble forms according to a variety of mechanisms. Our results expand the pool of P solubilising fungal species, also suggesting a new solubilisation index and shedding light on parameters that could be basic in the selection of efficient soil P-biofertilisers fungi. Rhizopus stolonifer var. stolonifer, Aspergillus niger and Alternaria alternata were found to be the best performing strains in terms of amounts of TCP solubilisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex microbial communities in the plant rhizosphere are responsible for their success in ecosystems. Supplementary inoculation of soil with mycorrhizal fungi and rhizospheric bacteria may act as a plant growth-promoting factor. The present study aims to assess the potential use of biofertilisers on tomato as a way of increasing yield and stability of root exploration area. The experiment was set up in greenhouse, regarding the evaluation of growing dynamics of plants, mycorrhization level and obtained yield. The identification of effective inoculation variants can lead to a standardisation of technologies of growing for local plant genotypes. Data analysis was performed based on the ANOVA test, followed by Tukey HSD, principal component analysis and cluster analysis in order to identify the potential of bioproducts to stimulate the development of tomato plants. Application of bacterial biofertilisers does not stimulate enough the aboveground development of plants. An antagonistic reaction is visible between exogenous mycorrhizas and those specific in soil, acting slightly different for each genotype. Mycorrhizal level in root systems is more dependent on applied biofertilisers than on analyzed genotypes. For the variants without additional fertilisers, a high level of mycorrhization is visible only after 75 days from the transplantation. Based on results we can conclude that microbial active fertilisers may represent viable solutions to increase yield capacity and root exploration area for local tomato genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new application of agro-process intensification is described for nitrogen fixation by Azospirillum brasilense supported within the pores of sulphonated-neutralised polyHIPE polymers (PHPs) which are highly hydrophilic, elastic, crosslinked and ionic with nano-structured pore walls. These bioactive macroscopic polymer particles, when used as soil additives act as micro-bioreactors within the soil and facilitate the interactions between plant roots, root exudates, water, nutrients and bacteria (reactive components), because plant roots penetrate into these micro-bioreactors which simultaneously absorb water and nutrients while generating biofertiliser through the nitrogen fixing bacteria within them. Hence, these soil additives act as synthetic rhizosphere (SRS). In greenhouse experiments, it is shown that the presence of the bioactive SRS at 0.5 wt% level in the soil without any fertiliser addition increases the dry grass shoots by 9.6%, 9.5%, 40% and 145% after 3, 6, 9 and 12 weeks of growth, respectively, compared to grass grown with no SRS or bacteria. Progressive yield enhancement with Azospirillum brasilense supported on PHPs is due to reduction of soil nutrients thus switching nitrogen fixing bacterium from consumption to production of nitrogen. The environmental impact and sustainability of SRS media are also considered and compared with other soil additives: super absorbent polymers and biochar.

Título en ingles: Selection and characterization of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR’s) associated with cotton crop (Gossypium hirsutum) Resumen: Como parte de las estrategias de una agricultura sostenible, se hace necesario disminuir el uso de fertilizantes nitrogenados de síntesis, mediante la utilización de los biofertilizantes. En particular, los géneros Azotobacter y Azospirillum son utilizados como agentes promotores de crecimiento vegetal debido a su capacidad para fijar nitrógeno atmosférico y producir hormonas de tipo indólico. Por tal razón, en este estudio se aislaron bacterias diazotróficas de los géneros Azotobacter y Azospirillum a partir de la rizósfera de cultivos de algodón en el Espinal (Tolima). Las poblaciones microbianas se caracterizaron fenotípicamente en los medios de cultivo semiespecíficos: Ashby y LG (Azotobacter sp.) y NFb, LGI y Batata (Azospirillum sp.). La promoción de crecimiento vegetal se determinó mediante la actividad de la enzima nitrogenasa por medio de la técnica de reducción de acetileno y producción de índoles por el método colorimétrico de Salkowsky. Se obtuvieron 9 aislamientos tentativos de Azotobacter sp. y 4 de Azospirillum sp. Se presentaron diferencias significativas en la prueba de reducción de acetileno con las cepas presuntivas de Azotobacter sp.: NAT 9 (206.43 nmol C2H2 mL-1.h-1), NAT 4, (292.77 nmol C2H2 mL-1.h-1), y NAT 6 (460.60 nmol C2H2 mL-1.h-1) y en la producción de índoles de las cepas NAT 19 (19.87 μg.mL-1) y NAT 13 (20.08 μg.mL-1). Por su eficiencia in vitro en la promoción de crecimiento vegetal se seleccionaron las cepas NAT9, NAT4, NAT6, NAT19 y NAT13 para ser evaluadas como principio activo en futuros inoculantes para el algodón en esta zona del departamento del Tolima. Palabras clave: fijación biológica de nitrógeno; producción de índoles; promoción del crecimiento vegetal; biofertilizantes. Abstract: As part of strategies for sustainable agriculture, it is necessary to reduce the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilisers through the use of biofertilisers. In particular, the genera Azotobacter and Azospirillum are used as plant growth promoters because of their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and indolic type hormones. For this reason, in this study were isolated diazotrophic bacteria of the genera Azotobacter and Azospirillum from the rhizosphere of cotton crops in Espinal (Tolima). The microbial populations were characterized phenotypically in specific semi culture media: Ashby and LG (Azotobacter sp.) and NFb, LGI and Batata (Azospirillum sp.). The promotion of plant growth was determined by the enzyme nitrogenase activity through acetylene reduction technique and production of indoles by the salkowsky colorimetric method. 9 isolates were obtained tentative Azotobacter sp. and 4 of Azospirillum sp. Significant differences in acetylene reduction test with presumptive strains of Azotobacter sp.: NAT 9 (206.43 nmol C2H2 mL-1.h-1), NAT, 4, (292.77 nmol C2H2 mL-1.h-1), and NAT 6 (460.60 nmol C2H2 mL-1.h-1) and indole production strains NAT 19 (19.87 μg.mL-1) and NAT 13 (20.08 μg.mL-1). In vitro efficiency in promoting plant growth were selected strains NAT9, NAT4, NAT6, NAT19 and NAT13 to be evaluated as active in future inoculants on cotton in this part of the department of Tolima. Keywords: biological nitrogen fixation; indole production; plant growth-promoting; biofertilisers.

Purpose: Catha edulis, commonly called as khat or chat is an evergreen plant cultivated in Ethiopia for its stimulant leaves. The young leaves are chewed as a part of social recreation and the older leaves along with the twigs are discarded. This forms the major part of municipal solid waste that is dumped in large quantity in Harar region. The present study was carried in Haramaya University, Ethiopia to decompose the khat wastes along with crop residues and different animal manures (cow dung, goat manure, poultry manure and swine manure) using the earthworm Eisenia foetida. Methods: The collected khat wastes along with crop residues and different animal manures were vermicomposted and assessed for nutrient contents using standard procedures. Results: The result of the experiment indicated that all the parameters were improved by the decomposition using earthworms and the C/N ratio was within the limits that indicate the maturity of the compost. The organic carbon, organic matter, total nitrogen, phosphorus, copper, iron, zinc and manganese contents were analyzed and found to be improved after decomposition. The added crop residues and animal manures enhanced the decomposition process and manurial value of the khat leaf waste. Conclusion: The nutrient content of the vermicomposts revealed khat to be a suitable substrate for vermicomposting thereby making efficient utilization of solid wastes. This can be an effective technology to reduce the solid waste and the resultant product can be used for improving soil fertility and crop production by the farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The co-inoculation of mulberry with phosphate solubilizing micro-organisms, nitrogen fixing bacteria and arbuscular mycorrhiza has influenced its macronutrient uptake through leaf. The data revealed that maximum nitrogen (484.12 kg /ha) , phosphorus (59.83 kg /ha) and potassium (244.61 kg/ha) uptake through leaf has taken place due to co-inoculation treatments as compared to the un inoculated treatments irrespective of different levels and sources of fertilizer. Significantly higher effective rate of rearing (ERR, 95.33%), single cocoon weight (2.06 g) and single shell weight (0.44 g) were recorded by feeding silkworm with the leaves harvested from the treatment T8 receiving 175 kg nitrogen and 70 kg phosphorus/ha/yr with rock phosphate as a source of phosphorus and co-inoculated with beneficial micro-organisms. Maximum filament length of 936.33 meter per cocoon and reel ability of (86%) was also recorded in the treatment T8.

In recent years, biofertilisers have emerged as a promising component of an integrated nutrient supply system in agriculture. The objective of this study was to examine the influence of selected biofertilisers on the vegetative growth, the content of N, P2O5 and K2O in the leaves and stems, and on the physiological parameters of pepper of the variety of ‘Sofiiska Kapiya’ cultivated under organic agriculture conditions. This experiment was carried out from 2009 to 2011 on the experimental fields of the Agroecological Centre at the Agricultural University-Plovdiv (Bulgaria), situated on the territory of a certified ecological farm. The study included the following biofertilisers – Boneprot, Lumbrical, Baikal EM “Effective Microorganisms”, Emosan, and Bio One. The results of the biometric measurements of the average plant height at the end of the vegetative period showed the highest values for the variant treated with Emosan on the Boneprot basic fertilisation (62.60 cm – 2009; 64.80 cm – 2010, and 63.87 cm – 2011). Upon feeding with the biofertilisers Emosan and Baikal EM on basic fertilisation with Boneprot (2009, 2010 and 2011) at the pepper mass fruit yield stage, plants showed higher values of net photosynthesis (PN) that were also similar to the high values observed in the flower bud stage. The highest intensity of transpiration (Е) was observed for the variants treated with the biofertilisers Baikal EM (2009 and 2011) and Emosan (2010) on basic fertilisation with Boneprot. It was concluded that the feeding with Emosan stimulated the vegetative growth of the pepper plants due to the high concentrations of nutrient-providing proteins contained in this biofertiliser. The results showed that biofertilisers do not significantly impact the P content of the pepper leaves and stems, but changes were more obvious in the leaves. The fertilisation with the studied biofertilisers increased the K2O content in leaves and stems compared to the control (non-fertilised) plants; the values were higher for the leaves.

Experiments were conducted to study the effect of combined application of organic manures and biofertilisers on herbage yield and quality of Indigofera tinctoria during September 2012 -13 and 2013-14 at All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Medicinal, Aromatic Plants and Betel Vine Centre, Kerala Agricultural University Thrissur, Kerala, India. The treatments included FYM 10 Mg ha-1, FYM 10 Mg ha-1 + Azospirillum (2 kg ha-1), FYM 10 Mg ha-1 + Azospirillum (2 kg ha-1) + VAM (2 kg ha-1), Vermicompost (3 Mg ha-1), Vermicompost (3 Mg ha-1) + Azospirillum (2 kg ha-1), Vermicompost (3 Mg ha-1) + Azospirillum (2 kg ha-1) + VAM (2 kg ha-1), Coirpith compost (4 Mg ha-1), Coirpith compost (4 Mg ha-1) + Azospirillum (2 kg ha-1) and Coirpith compost (4 Mg ha-1) + Azospirillum (2 kg ha-1) + VAM (2 kg ha-1). The pooled herbage yield was higher in plots with basal application of farm yard manure 10 Mg ha-1 and azospirillum 2 kg ha-1 (5691 kg ha-1). However, it was statistically on par with individual application of coirpith compost @ 4 Mg ha-1 (5542 kg ha-1) and combined application of vermicompost @ 3 Mg ha-1 along with Azospirillum 2 kg ha-1 (5304 kg ha-1). The quality as indicated by glycoside indican was more in plants which received basal application of FYM alone. The uptake of N and K were higher in treatments which recorded higher herbage yield. Due to combined application of organic manures and biofertilisers, N and K contents in the post experimental soil increased significantly, while the content of P decreased. The highest B: C ratio of 3.51 was in treatment with Farmyard manure 10 Mg ha-1 and Azospirillum 2 kg ha-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Until recent days, the customary treatment of animal byproducts not intended for human consumption (SANDACH from its acronym in Spanish) was directed primarily to the use of certain fractions as animal feed. However, current legislation affecting removing of SANDACH products restricts its use as animal feed for health reasons, but enables the implementation of new technologies for their treatment, opening a wide field of work for the energy recovery using anaerobic digestion and the subsequent use of the digestate as fertiliser (just in the case that a pasteurisation or sterilisation process has been previously applied depending on the category in which the original byproduct is classified). Under these circumstances, the LIFE VALPORC project (www.lifevalporc.eu) arises with the aim to demonstrate a sustainable alternative to the management of pig carcasses and manure, addressing current environmental problems derived from its management and valuing these waste streams through its transformation into biofuels and organic fertilisers, with the corresponding environmental and socio-economic added value. The results so far show that the codigestion of meat by-products (flour and fat) with the effluents generated in the carcasses rendering process plus pig manure is a viable way and a profitable alternative to manage these waste streams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pepper has a relatively large share in the general structure of the vegetable production in Bulgaria. The objective of this research was to investigate the influence of biofertiliser Emosan (HemoZym NK, Hemozym Bio N5) in combination with biofertilisers Lumbrical and Boneprot, as well as the influence of certain agrometeorological conditions on the phenological growth of pepper cv. 'Sofiiska Kapiya'. This experiment was carried out in 2009 - 2011 on the experimental fields of the Agroecological Centre at the Agricultural University Plovdiv (Bulgaria). The pepper was grown using existing technology for mid-early field production, according to the principles of organic agriculture. The agroclimatic characteristics were taken on the basis of data of twenty-four-hour performance of meteorological factors. In the three years of the experiment the temperature conditions during the period of active vegetation of the pepper (June - July - August) were above the average, which was in conjunction with the global trends. The application of biofertiliser Emosan, in combination with basic fertilization with biofertilisers Boneprot and Lumbrical and under the impact of suitable agrometeorological conditions, had a positive impact on the pepper plants. Pepper plants showed earlier entry into the main phenophases under field conditions of organic farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The area of agricultural wastes valorisation to fertilizers is attracting growing attention because of the increasing fertilizer prices of fertilizers and the higher costs of waste utilization. Despite the scientific and political interest in the concept of circular economy, few studies have considered the practical approach towards the implementation of elaborated technologies. This article outlines innovative strategies for the valorisation of different biobased wastes into fertilizers. The present work makes a significant contribution to the field of new ideas for waste biomass management to recover significant fertilizer nutrients. These results emphasize the importance of the biomass use as a base of renewable resources, which has recently gained special importance, especially in relation to the outbreak of pandemia and war. Broken supply chains and limited access to deposits of raw materials used in fertilizer production (natural gas, potassium salts) meant that now, as never before, it has become more important and feasible to implement the idea of a circular economy and a green deal. We have obtained satisfactory results that demonstrate that appropriate management of biological waste (originating from agriculture, food processing, aquaculture, forest, pharmaceutical industry, and other branches of industry, sewage sludge) will not only reduce environmental nuisance (reducing waste heaps), but will also allow recovery of valuable materials, such as nitrogen (especially valuable amino acids), phosphorus, potassium, microelements, and biologically active substances with properties that stimulate plant growth. The results reported here provide information on production of biobased plant protection products (bioagrochemicals) from agri-food waste. This work reports an overview of biopesticides and biofertilisers production technologies and summarizes their properties and the mechanisms of action. • New approach to bio-based organic and organo-mineral fertilizer technology have been proposed. • Different methods of valorisation of agri-food waste have been reported. • Practical aspects that limit commercialisation have been highlighted. • The prospects for bioagrochemicals that combat biotic and abiotic stress have been shown. • Introduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthworms harness the microorganisms which are beneficial to the agro-ecosystem, as they synergistically decompose soil organic matter and help in nutrients cycling. Lampito mauritii and Perionyx excavatus are endemic earthworms which dominate the Indian soils, especially in south India. However, the exotic earthworm Eudrilus eugeniae has been harnessed for the formation of compost and organic matter decomposition. Endemic earthworms do not coexist with exotics as they eliminate the former due to competition for food and space. The present study aims to reveal the physical, chemical and biological differences between the different products of the endemic earthworms L. mauritii and P. excavatus and the exotic earthworm E. eugeniae to better understand their contributions to agricultural soil and nutrient management. The three major earthworm products include cast, compost and drilosphere soil of earthworms. Different groups of microorganisms present in earthworm products include major microbial groups, biofertilisers, carbon, and nitrogen mineralizers. The results reveal that the products of endemic earthworms show significant increase in biofertilisers such as nitrogen fixers and phosphate solubilizers, heterotrophic bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes compared to the products from the exotic earthworm. Among the three products studied, vermicompost, especially of the endemic species, shows a balanced C/ N ratio and increased microbial density including biofertilisers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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One of the main social and economic challenges of the 21st century will be to overcome the worlds' water deficit expected by the end of this decade. Microalgae based wastewater treatment has been suggested as a strategy to recover nutrients from wastewater while simultaneously producing clean water. Consortia of microalgae and bacteria are responsible for recovering nutrients from wastewater. A better understanding of how environmental and operational conditions affect the composition of the microalgae-bacteria consortia would allow to maximise nutrient recoveries and biomass productivities. Most of the studies reported to date showed promising results, although up-scaling of these processes to reactors larger than 100 m2 is needed to better predict their industrial relevance. The main advantage of microalgae based wastewater treatment is that valuable biomass with unlimited applications is produced as a co-product. The aim of the current paper was to review microalgae based wastewater treatment processes focusing on strategies that allow increasing both biomass productivities and nutrient recoveries. Moreover, the benefits of microalgae based agricultural products were also discussed. [Display omitted] • Microalgae based wastewater treatment is sustainable and economically viable. • Raceway reactors allow processing large volumes of wastewater. • Operational conditions can influence the microalgae-bacteria consortia. • Up-scaling of current processes to over 100 m2 reactors is required. • Microalgal biomass can be used to produce high-value agricultural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]