Thesis
Microbial Analysis and the Impact of EM4 Fertilizer Compared to AB Mix Industrial Fertilizers on Saga Plant’s(Abrus precatorius) Growth in Hydroponic Cultivation
Hydroponic cultivation has emerged as a cost-effective alternative to traditional soil-based
agriculture and may be less susceptible to pests and diseases. They can be set up in controlled
environments, making them suitable for year-round production in urban areas with limited land
availability. EM4 is a type of fertilizer that can increase agricultural systems' decomposition,
composting, and nutrient cycling rates. The fertilizers offer a sustainable substitute for
conventional industrial fertilizers., and their microbial composition can identify them. The
microbes in EM4 comprise 90% Lactobacillus species and other lactic acid-producing microbes
that foster a dynamic soil ecosystem, enhance soil health, and promote plant growth. Saga plant
(Abrus precatorius) is a valuable medicinal plant with aesthetic appeal. This plant is an ideal
candidate for hydroponic cultivation. This research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of EM4
various concentrations in hydroponic cultivation and explore the microbial components of
fertilizers for soil and plant health improvement. The experiment showed that a mixture of 15%
EM4 and AB mix was effective for plant growth. Additionally, the AB mix samples demonstrated
higher absorbance values for most carbon sources than the EM4 and AB mix combination,
indicating more vigorous microbial activity in the AB mix. Future research should focus on
identifying specific bacteria in EcoPlates and increasing sample replicates for more reliable
results. Additionally, AB mix shows dominant color changes, indicating that the bacteria in it can
more effectively metabolize the carbon sources.
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