Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Research Project

Degree Name

Grade 12

Keywords

Lactobacillus casei, biofertilizer, arugula (Eruca vesicaria), lactic acid bacteria, soil acidity, phosphorus availability

Abstract

The growing concern for food scarcity has required agriculture to adapt through sustainable approaches. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB), such as Lactobacillus casei, have shown potential to improve soil health and plant growth. This study evaluated the effects of L. casei on Eruca vesicaria in terms of soil parameters and plant growth as a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers. The research addressed the problem of soil degradation caused by conventional fertilizer use by testing if L. casei could promote growth and maintain soil quality under controlled conditions. L. casei was inoculated, cultivated at 37 °C, centrifuged, and resuspended in sterilized distilled water (SDW). Seeds were sterilized with hydrogen peroxide, exposed to bacterial suspensions, and planted in a greenhouse, while control seeds were washed with SDW. Growth was monitored for five weeks, and shoot length, biomass, soil pH (Day 15-30), and phosphorus levels (Day 30) were measured. The results showed no statistically significant differences among the L. casei, fertilizer, combined treatment, and control groups at the p < .05 level. These findings contrast with earlier reports of LAB improving plant growth and soil quality. The study concludes that L. casei did not significantly influence growth or soil parameters of E. vesicaria under the given conditions. Further research is recommended using expanded methods and diverse environmental settings to better assess the potential of L. casei as a biofertilizer.

First Advisor

Ramgie M. Bartolata, LPT

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