Preliminary observations on the interaction of different rice soil types to inoculation of blue-green algae in relation to rice culture

Abstract

The results of investigation with soils of seven different regions of India for testing their suitability for the nitrogen enrichment of them using the bluegreen algae are dealt with. Of the soils studied (of Karjat, Palur, Pattambi, Kayamkulam, Nellore, Nagenahalli and Titabar) those of Nellore, Nagenahalli and Titabar were the best as regards their response to algal inoculation as well as yield potential. Results also indicated that apart from nitrogen supply, the algae contribute certain other growth promoters beneficial to the rice crop. Studies on the physical and chemical properties of the soil before planting do not apparently disclose any limiting factor for growth of the rice plant or algae, but the performance of both in the soils indicate that some essential organic substance/s or trace elements could be the limiting factor/s.