Fish waste valorisation as biofertilizer: Impact on soil fertility and radish (Raphanus sativus) growth

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.