Physical analysis and physiological response by spectrophotometry of Raphanus sativus to the application of biostimulants in saline soils

Abstract

Abstract The soil used in this study is characterized by a sandy texture, salinity, alkalinity, nutrient deficiency, and low levels of organic matter, factors that result in a reduced capacity of cation exchange. Given these soil limitations, the study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of root inoculation in radish cultivation using a complete fish bioactivator (CFB) and lactic acid bacteria (LAB). The experimental phase was structured using the statistical model of a Completely Randomized Block Design, consisting of 3 blocks and 4 treatments: T0, T1, T2 and T3. The CFB doses were set at 0, 500, 1000 and 1500 mL/ha, respectively, while LAB were applied at a constant rate (2000 mL/ha) in all treatments, with the exception of the control treatment T0. The results of spectrophotometric and morphological analyses confirm that treatment T3 significantly optimized the crop’s physical development, nutritional profile, and physiological resistance (optimal levels of bioactive compounds and pigments). In conclusion, the application of the microbial consortium not only mitigates the phytotoxic impact of the degraded substrate but also enhances the crop’s specialized metabolism, maximizing its development under adverse conditions.