Introduction
Soil salinity is a major limiting factor for rice production, particularly in paddy soils where saline water intrusion reduces yield and soil fertility. This research investigates the combined application of microbial-inoculated biochar and nitrogen fertilizer to improve rice growth and mitigate soil salinity over time. Biochar provides a habitat for beneficial microbes, improves soil structure, and enhances nutrient retention, while nitrogen stimulates plant growth. Together, they may offer a synergistic solution for sustainable rice farming in saline environments.
Experimental Design
The experiment was conducted in controlled paddy field plots with varying treatments, including biochar alone, microbial-inoculated biochar, nitrogen fertilizer, and combinations thereof. Salinity levels, plant growth parameters, and soil nutrient content were monitored over multiple crop cycles. The use of microbial inoculants aimed to enhance biochar’s effectiveness by promoting nutrient cycling and reducing harmful salts, offering a long-term residual effect on soil health.
Results and Analysis
Data revealed that the combination of microbial-inoculated biochar with nitrogen significantly improved rice plant height, biomass, and grain yield compared to control plots. Soil salinity levels showed a gradual reduction in treated plots, indicating enhanced leaching and microbial activity facilitating salt mitigation. Nutrient analysis showed improved nitrogen use efficiency and higher organic carbon content in the treated soils, supporting sustained plant growth and soil health.
Mechanisms of Action
Biochar’s porous structure acts as a habitat for beneficial microbes, allowing them to thrive and interact with soil nutrients. Microbial inoculants contribute to nitrogen fixation and organic matter decomposition, improving nutrient availability. These microbes can also transform or immobilize harmful salt ions, reducing the toxic effect of salinity on rice roots. Together with nitrogen fertilizer, this system creates a balanced environment conducive to healthy rice growth.
Implications for Sustainable Agriculture
The study demonstrates that integrating microbial-inoculated biochar with nitrogen is a promising sustainable strategy for improving rice productivity in saline soils. This approach reduces reliance on chemical amendments while enhancing soil structure, fertility, and resilience. It supports the long-term sustainability of paddy farming systems in regions facing increasing soil salinization due to climate change and poor irrigation practices.
Future Research Directions
Further research should focus on optimizing microbial strains and biochar types to maximize synergistic effects. Long-term field studies are needed to assess the durability of salinity reduction and crop yield improvements over successive seasons. The interaction between soil microbial communities, biochar properties, and different rice cultivars under varied climatic conditions should also be explored to develop precise recommendations for farmers.
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