GROWTH-PROMOTING POTENTIAL OF INDIGENOUS ALGAE ON DIFFERENT BASMATI RICE VARIETIES

Abstract

The use of indigenous algal strains as sustainable biofertilizers in rice-based systems offers a promising strategy to enhance crop performance while minimizing environmental impact. This study evaluated the growth-promoting potential of locally isolated algae—Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus obliquus, and Anabaena sp.—on three Basmati rice varieties (Punjab Basmati, Kissan Basmati, and Chenab Basmati) under controlled greenhouse conditions. A completely randomized design (CRD) with five treatments (including a mixed algal consortium) was applied, and data on morphological, physiological, and soil parameters were collected. Results revealed that the algal consortium significantly outperformed individual treatments and the control, leading to marked increases in plant height, number of tillers, leaf area, chlorophyll content (SPAD), and biomass accumulation. Punjab Basmati exhibited the greatest response across most parameters. Post-harvest soil analysis indicated improvements in organic matter content and available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, with minimal change in soil pH. These findings highlight the synergistic effect of combined algal strains in promoting rice growth through nutrient mobilization and phytohormonal activity. The study confirms that indigenous algae are effective, eco-friendly inputs for enhancing Basmati rice growth and improving soil fertility. Adoption of algal biofertilizers may reduce reliance on chemical inputs, promote resource use efficiency, and support the sustainability of rice-based agroecosystems..