IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF A PHOSPHATE SOLUBILISING ACTIVITY IN MORINGA LEAVES
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Abstract
Phosphate solubilization involves acid production, enzymatic activity, and microbial interactions. This study investigates the phosphate solubilizing activity in Moringa oleifera leaves, which are known to contain organic acids and phosphatases. Release of phosphate from insoluble calcium phosphate was found to be mediated by an oxalic acid producing fungal endophyte. Field studies using fenugreek confirmed the potential of Moringa leaf extracts as an inexpensive means of converting land containing insoluble phosphate to arable soil. Our findings suggest Moringa leaves can be used as a natural biofertilizer, contributing to reduced use of chemical fertilizers and promoting sustainable farming practices.
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References
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