Effect of short-time irrigation with industrial poultry wastewater on young olive tree (Olea europaea L. cv. Chemlali) growth parameters and the chemical composition of leaves

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short-term irrigation effect with industrial poultry wastewater on young olive trees (Olea europaea L. cv. Chemlali). Industrial poultry wastewater can be considered as a bio-fertilizer due to its richness in nutritive elements (SO42−, HCO3−, total nitrogen and K+). The physico-chemical analysis of wastewater showed a high concentration of TSS, COD, BOD, COT, NO3−, and conductivity. Measurements indicated that poultry wastewater enhanced plant growth, leaves dry matter, and ashes in comparison with tap water, as well as poultry wastewater diluted with tap water, however, a decrease in total soluble sugars (glucose and fructose) was detected in leaves. The determination of fatty acid profile of young olive trees leaves irrigated with poultry wastewater showed richness on saturated fatty acids in comparison with mono- and poly-unsaturated ones. In addition, oleic acid (C18:1) presented the lowest content in leaves of trees irrigated with poultry wastewater irrigation. According to those results, poultry wastewater lends itself to being a hydric alternative and at the same time a source of nutrients that can help fill the water deficit in semi-arid countries and avoid costly waste disposal for slaughterhouses.