Effects Of Different Cultivation Media On Vegetative Growth, Ecophysiological Traits And Nutrients Concentration In Strawberry Under Hydroponic And Aquaponic Cultivation Systems
The research paper investigates the impact of various cultivation media on the growth and nutrient concentration of strawberries cultivated in hydroponic and aquaponic systems. Conducted as a greenhouse experiment, the study utilized a completely randomized design with factorial arrangements, focusing on different ratios of perlite and cocopeat as substrates. The findings revealed that strawberries grown in hydroponic systems exhibited significantly higher dry weights (leaf, crown, and root), number of runners, leaf area, SPAD index (a measure of chlorophyll content), and concentrations of nitrogen (N), potassium (K), phosphorus (P), iron (Fe), and magnesium (Mg) compared to those grown in aquaponic systems, except when using sole perlite as a substrate. Conversely, aquaponic systems showed higher concentrations of calcium (Ca), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn) in leaves. The study concluded that while hydroponic systems generally favored strawberry growth, aquaponic systems with higher perlite ratios also performed well. The authors recommend using a mixture of perlite and cocopeat for hydroponic systems and a higher percentage of perlite for aquaponic systems to optimize strawberry cultivation.
This research paper is significant in the field of agricultural science, particularly in the context of sustainable farming practices. It contributes to ongoing discussions about soilless cultivation methods, which are increasingly relevant due to the need for efficient resource use in agriculture. The findings provide practical insights for growers looking to enhance strawberry production through hydroponic and aquaponic systems. By identifying optimal substrate combinations, the research aids in improving crop yield and quality, which is crucial for meeting food demands in urban and resource-limited settings. The study also highlights the ecological benefits of aquaponics, integrating fish farming with plant cultivation, thus promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
