| |
| author |
Rebecah Bashant
| | title |
Effects of Biochar and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Inoculation on the Root Colonization and Growth of Pisum Sativum (Dwarf Snap Peas)
| | abstract |
The field of agriculture struggles deeply with the battle between producing food at a high enough
rate to feed our ever growing population, while maintaining supports for our struggling
environment. Previous research in the field of sustainable agriculture has focused on the use of
0.5%-2% biochar to aid in plant growth and soil amendment, but manufacturers can recommend
up to a 10% rate of usage. This study seeks to investigate the effects of 10% biochar, both on its
own as well as in conjunction with AMF, on both soil health and plant growth parameters
associated with producing higher crop yields. A potted experiment with five treatments and a
control were set up, containing different concentrations and combinations of biochar and
arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. The data was analyzed to determine differences in root length, shoot
height, biomass, total phosphorus, and colonization of AMF in the roots. Soil parameters,
including texture, pH, organic matter, moisture, cation exchange capacity, and available
phosphorus were analyzed as well. Significance (p<0.05) was shown in soil moisture, soil pH,
soil phosphorus, and AMF colonization due to the effects of the treatments. The presence of 10%
biochar and AMF showed an increase in AMF colonization and soil phosphorus. The presence of
2% biochar and AMF (T3) had the most effect on the soil pH (7.2). Soil moisture was optimal
when treated with only 10% biochar. For farmers, this can mean that these techniques could be
explored further for expanded utilization in a farm setting, and can be implemented as per
manufacturer instructions for success. Through the furthered use of these amendment and support
tactics, steps towards mitigating climate and environmental issues worsened by agricultural
practices can be taken, while still providing a high enough yield to financially support farmers,
and while producing enough food for the world’s population.
| | school |
The College of Liberal Arts, Drew University
| | degree |
B.S. (2025)
|
| advisor |
Shagufta Gaffar
|
| full text | RBashant.pdf |
| |
