Fish waste valorisation
as biofertilizer: Impact on soil fertility and radish (Raphanus sativus) growth
Thendral Hepsibha Balraj, Dayana Kuppani and Tharani Gopalakrishnan
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 20(10); 98-107;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/2010rjbt0980107; (2025)
Abstract
The concept of the circular bioeconomy has enabled the conversion of fish waste
into a valuable biofertilizer. By using this organic biofertilizer, the harm that
chemical fertilizers do to the soil, human health and food security may be mitigated.
Because of its high vitamin and nutrient content, Raphanus sativus (Radish; Brassicaceae)
is consumed worldwide; yet, for a healthy yield, it needs the right fertilizer.
This study attempted to analyse the effect of fermented fish waste biofertilizer
(FFWB) on soil properties and growth of radish. The pot experiment has three treatments
with 5 replications: Group – I (water control); Group – II (Chemical fertilizer
NPK (120-65-100 kg/ ha); Group – III (1:100 diluted FFWB).
Among different treatments, FFWB fertilisation has demonstrated significant improvements
in soil N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Mn, Zn, S, Cu, Fe, B and CEC on par with chemical fertilizer.
Soil microbial analysis indicated that the population of all bacteria, yeast and
mold, as well as nitrogen fixers and phosphate solubilizers, improved under the
FFWB treatment. A significant improvement in growth traits of radish like plant
height, leaf number, leaf area, root length, root diameter and root weight were
evidenced in FFWB treatment. The findings indicated that the FFWB treatment has
enhanced soil fertility and radish growth. Therefore, chemical fertilizers can be
replaced with biofertilizer made from fermented fish waste. As a result, it is possible
to develop sustainable organic agricultural practices and recover degraded soil
fertility.
