Thierry Constantin Dongmo

University of Douala, Swaziland

Abstract Title:

Influence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and poultry manure on phosphorus bioavailability, growth, agronomic and biochemical compounds of sweet pepper (capsicum annuum).

Biography:

Thierry C. DONGMO holds a Master's degree in Plant Biotechnology from the University of Douala and is currently participating in a student exchange program at the University o Eswatini. He is passionate about sustainable agriculture and committed to developing biologically based solutions, particularly involving endophytic microorganisms, to enhance crop resilience and productivity. He has actively contributed to three ongoing research projects that are currently being prepared for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Research Interests:

The continuous growth of the world's population has increased pressure on soil resources, leading to soil degradation, declining crop productivity, and threats to food security. To address this challenge, environmentally friendly alternatives are needed. This study evaluated the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation and organic fertilization, on phosphorus bioavailability, growth, yield, and biochemical compounds of Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). A factorial arrangement of poultry manure, rock phosphate, and two AMF species, Rhizophagus irregularis and Dentiscutata nigra, were arranged in a randomized block design with three replications. Poultry manure was applied before sowing, whereas AMF and rock phosphate were applied at sowing. Agromorphological parameters were assessed, chemical and biochemical analyses were performed on plant tissues. All treatments significantly improved (p < 0.05) growth, yield, and nutrient composition compared with the control. Increases were observed in phosphorus, iron, nitrogen, proteins, total sugars, chlorophyll, and carotenoids. Combined treatments involving AMF and poultry manure showed the best performances, by their capacity to solubilize the rock phosphate and enhance the mineral uptake, supported also by good agronomic performances, with an estimated productivity of 1.8 kg.m⁻². These findings demonstrate that combining AMF with organic fertilization enhances plant productivity and nutrient availability while promoting sustainable soil management.