Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Liquid Biofertilizer Made from Fish Residues in the Sustainable Production of Lactuca Sativa in the Andes of Peru

Abstract

The purpose of this article was to evaluate the efficacy of a liquid biofertilizer from fish residues in the sustainable production of Lactuca sativa, in the city of Huancayo - Peru. This aims to sustainably harness the large amounts of fish waste generated every day. For fermentation, 3 biodigesters were used where 370 g, 470 g and 570 g of fish residues were added respectively. In addition, 304 g of molasses, 190 ml of yogurt, 304 g of cauliflower and 3.8 L of water to each biodigester and a liquid biofertilizer was obtained from each. The application of biofertilizer 3 (B3) of 570 g of fish residues and pH 4.8, presented better results, evidencing a composition of the most important macroelements (NPK), 3773.80 ppm of Nitrogen (N), 1362.71 ppm of Phosphorus (P) and 3376.63 ppm of Potassium (K). The liquid biofertilizers were applied in 9 pots to observe the growth time and size they reach compared to 3 pots of normal control, to the 12 pots Lactuca sativa seeds were added. As a result, it was obtained that normal control growth is slower than samples with biofertilizer. On day 15 the growth of Lactuca sativa applied with the biofertilizer with the highest concentration of fish residues (570 g) is 5.2 cm and efficiency are demonstrated by nourishing the plant with essential nutrients, improving production and soil quality. It is recommended to use the proposed biofertilizer as a complement to agricultural treatments and gradually replace them according to soil conditions, management and crop response. It is also suggested to investigate the application and dosage of inputs in the growth of different crops.