Summary
This randomised complete block design trial evaluated the effects of fresh cow dung applied at five concentrations (10–50 g L⁻¹) on growth, biochemical composition, and functional quality of Wolffia globosa, a fast-growing aquatic plant. Organic fertilisation with cow dung enhanced bioactive compounds (particularly phenolics and flavonoids at 50 g L⁻¹) and antioxidant activity, although optimal biomass was achieved at moderate doses (20–30 g L⁻¹), suggesting a non-linear dose–response relationship. The findings suggest cow dung is a viable organic alternative to inorganic fertiliser for improving both yield and nutritional quality of wolffia, though carotenoid content was notably higher in the inorganic control.
Regional applicability
The study's geography is not specified in the metadata provided, limiting direct regional applicability assessment. If conducted in South Asia (given author affiliations), the findings would be highly relevant to United Kingdom interest in sustainable aquaculture and organic crop production, though UK climate and water conditions would require local validation before adoption in domestic wolffia cultivation systems.
Key measures
Biomass yield (g); crude protein (%); crude lipid (%); total phenolic content (mg GAE g⁻¹); total flavonoid content (mg QE g⁻¹); ascorbic acid (mg 100 g⁻¹); total carotenoid content (µg g⁻¹); chlorophyll-b (µg g⁻¹); total tannin content; DPPH antioxidant activity (%); ABTS antioxidant activity (%); FRAP activity (μmol Fe g⁻¹)
Outcomes reported
The study measured biomass yield, biochemical composition (crude protein and lipid), bioactive compounds (phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids, tannins, ascorbic acid), and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP assays) in Wolffia globosa under six fertilization treatments. Results showed that cow dung application at varying concentrations (10–50 g L⁻¹) differentially affected growth and functional quality compared to inorganic fertilizer control.
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