Author: Bindhu K.B., Gopika V.D. and Dhanya Thomas T.T.
Bryophytes are the amphibians of the plant kingdom. In fact, the work on the bryophyte as biofertilizer is less. They are seasonal also. In the present study the effect of Anthoceros extract on growth performance and biochemical properties of Abelmoschus esculentus was studied and its antimicrobial effect was also detected. For this study germination rate of the seeds of the bhindi plants were recorded at various concentrations of the Anthoceros extract like 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%. The one without any extract was regarded as control. The length of roots, shoots, length and width of leaf, etc were also examined in the concentrations 60%, 80% and 100%. In addition to this the biochemical analysis for detection of carbohydrates and protein was also performed. Antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus was detected. Of the various concentrations studied, the 60% showed maximum seed germination within minimum days as compared to the others, and the length of roots, shoots, length and width of leaf, etc. were also high in this concentration. The root length was 4.5cm, shoot length was 13.2 cm, leaf length was 3.3cm and leaf width was 3.1. In this concentration the highest value of protein and carbohydrate was also recorded. The control showed lowest rate of germination, root length, shoot length, leaf length and leaf width. The protein content and amount of carbohydrate also less in control. It shows the influence of Anthoceros extract in seed germination and growth of bhindi plant. The extract of Anthoceros showed antibacterial property towards Staphylococcus aureus. This may be due to its symbiotic association of blue green algae Anaebena. Through this study it was made clear that the Anthoceros like bryophytes are good source of biofertilizers with antibacterial potential, and we have to explore it. More studies has to be conducted to isolate the compounds present in Anthoceros and to find out the effects of these compounds.
Anthoceros, Biochemical analysis, Antimicrobial activity, symbiotic, germination
From this study it was clear that the extract of bryophyte especially Anthoceros sps is having very good effect on the seed germination and also for having good biochemical constitution. It is also showing good antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. All these points out towards the need of conservation of the bryophytes and their utilization in various medicinal, biofertilizer aspects. In short we can say that the biofertilizers like Anthoceros, or any other bryophytes are low cost and can be used by farmers, they have no side effects, can reduce pollution, thereby increases the soil fertility. The blue green algae inhabiting inside the bryophyte will secrete various growth promoting substances like vitamins, protein etc, there by improving the texture, pH and water holding capacity of the soil. The extract of the bryophytes speed up the plant growth and will provide quick results. So thay can be used in the coming days popularly as biofertilizers.
-
Bindhu K.B., Gopika V.D. and Dhanya Thomas T.T. (2023). Anthoceros extract as Growth Promotor and Biochemical Stimulant in Okra Plants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 683-688.