Biofertilizers may not be that good for rice: Rice Science for Decision-Makers

Biofertilizers are being recommended in farming owing to the producers’ claim that these fertilizers yield quality product without harming one’s health and the environment. However, biofertilizers may not be effective as expected. The study titled, Comparative Performance of Biofertilizers under Aerobic and Anaerobic Conditions, of Dr. Cezar P. Mamaril and Michelle B. Castillo revealed that biofertilizers are not effective alternate source of nutrients for rice plants in irrigated, rainfed, and upland ecosystems. Specifically, they found that biofertilizers are not effective in promoting growth and increasing the yield of irrigated rice, rainfed rice and corn, which are grown in irrigated and upland conditions. Conducted in 26 field trials across the country, the study was implemented from November 2008 until March 2010. Study sites included Ilocos Norte, Isabela, Nueva Ecija, Laguna, Camarines Sur, Samar, Leyte, Negros Occidental, Agusan Bohol, and North Cotabato. The rice plants in different ecosystems were subjected to nine treatments, including a control, in which no biofertilizers or commercial fertilizers were applied during the duration of the study. Treatments were arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design and replicated three times.