EXPLORING THE BIOFERTILIZATION EFFICIENCY OF CHLORELLA VULGARIS ON TOMATO (LYCOPERSICON ESCULENTUM L.) GROWTH AND PRODUCTIVITY

Abstract

Rapid global population growth has increased food demand, leading to the extensive use of synthetic fertilizers that degrade soil health and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. As a sustainable alternative, algal biofertilizers—particularly those derived from Chlorella vulgaris—offer a promising approach to enhance crop productivity while maintaining ecological balance.

This study evaluated the effects of a Chlorella vulgaris-based biofertilizer on the growth and biochemical attributes of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.). The nutrient-rich microalga C. vulgaris was cultivated in Bold’s Basal Medium, identified through microscopy, PCR amplification, and Sanger sequencing, and formulated into a biofertilizer (OD 0.27). Tomato seedlings were divided into three groups: control, Chlorella-treated, and urea-treated.

Application of the Chlorella biofertilizer significantly improved plant growth, as evidenced by increased root length, plant height, and leaf number. Biochemical analyses demonstrated elevated levels of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids, indicating enhanced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant vigor. Higher proline accumulation suggested the induction of a mild stress response.

These findings highlight the potential of Chlorella vulgaris as an eco-friendly biofertilizer for promoting plant growth and productivity. However, further investigation is required to better understand the associated stress responses and to optimize its application before large-scale agricultural implementation