What prompted the research?
Dr James Meyer (JM): It was conducted to evaluate whether the positive effects of microbe addition described in international literature could be replicated locally, and thereby challenge the limits imposed in South Africa on the reuse of agricultural wastewater for irrigation.
Growing demand for food has resulted in greater use of inorganic fertilisers, often with adverse effects such as soil degradation, acidification and reduced soil organic carbon. It has also reduced the effectiveness of inorganic fertilisers and thus an increase in the use of organic fertilisers, either alone or in combination with inorganic fertilisers, to mitigate these adverse effects.
Could you explain the methodology and main findings of the project?
JM: The research was conducted in collaboration with members of the South African Pork Producers’ Organisation and the Biotechnology Platform at the Agricultural Research Council. Three types of soil samples were obtained from three commercial piggeries in different provinces.
Each piggery supplied soil irrigated with biodegradable wastewater from the piggery, inorganic commercial fertiliser, and neither (ecological buffer zones). Additional compliance monitoring data were also obtained.
Dr Rian Pierneef (RP): The microbial DNA was extracted from these soil samples employing the sequencing library of the 16S rRNA V3-V4 regions. A bacterial barcode was sequenced to identify the bacteria in the soil and give an overview of species and diversity. This indicated the beneficial traits they might possess to improve soil quality and increase plant growth. There were clear differences in the soil’s bacterial composition among the various locations and treatment areas.
Denne historien er fra June 18, 2021-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
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Denne historien er fra June 18, 2021-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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ARC names best dairy producers of the year
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) recently announced the winners of the 2024 National Master Dairyman Awards at an event hosted by AgriExpo in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
Lion breeders to give up bone stockpiles?
The Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment issued an official notice in mid-November in which it called on lion breeders to voluntarily hand over their lion bone stockpiles to the state as soon as possible.
Thousands of British farmers march on parliament against inheritance tax
Thousands of UK farmers gathered in London, England, on 19 November to demand the government repeal a proposed inheritance tax on agricultural land, which they argued threatened the future of family-run farms (see page 4), Al Jazeera reported.
Avocado frittata with sundried tomatoes, feta and olives
This wholesome, vibrant frittata is perfect for brunch or a light supper. Recipe and photo: The South African Avocado Growers' Association.
Feed, hay, and other costs are up, so it's time to get creative
Breeders and riding schools need to explore innovative ways to generate income in order to ensure their survival, says Dr Mac.
How to make polystyrene seedling trays last longer
While thinking about how to prolong the lifespan of polystyrene seedling trays that are exposed to harsh sunlight, Bill Kerr began to wonder if a coat of paint might offer a solution.
Living the 'culture' in agriculture
Creation Wines has won numerous awards, was ranked fourth in the World’s Best Vineyards in 2023, and more recently won the V d’Or award for the Best Brand Experience. The owners, Carolyn and Jean-Claude Martin, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how their winery became a top tourism destination.
Time to take a deep breath on the slopes of the Magaliesberg
Around 100km from both Johannesburg and Pretoria in Gauteng and a tad over 40km from Rustenburg in North West, Farmer’s Weekly found a fine retreat on a working farm where couples may kindle their romance.
African penguins could be extinct by 2035 how to save them
Protecting the critically endangered African penguin is good for the environment, other animal species, and the economy, say Lorien Pichegru and Dr Alistair McInnes of Nelson Mandela University, Katrin Ludynia of the University of Cape Town, and Peter Barham of the University of Bristol in the UK.
An urgent need to confront Nassella in SA
South American grass species from the genus Nassella were unwittingly introduced to South Africa over 120 years ago and continue to invade montane veld. As Mike Burgess writes, research-based action is required.
