Short-Term Effects of Solid Piggery Sludge Application on Soil Properties and Metal Accumulation In Rice and Maize under Humid Lowland Tropical Conditions in Papua New Guinea
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53550/ijsc.v54.i1.217Keywords:
Bioaccumulation factors, Heavy metals, Oryza sativa, Piggery sludge, Soil amendment, Zea maysAbstract
The livestock industry in humid tropical regions is generating increasing amounts of piggery waste, necessitating sustainable solutions. Agricultural land application offers waste-to-resource potential, but concerns about heavy metal contamination and crop safety necessitate evaluation. This study examined short-term effects of solid piggery sludge (SPS) on soil properties and metal accumulation in rice and maize in Papua New Guinea over six months, with four SPS rates (0, 2.5, 5, and 10 t ha⁻¹) and five replicates. Soil samples were analyzed for physical, chemical, macronutrients, and heavy metals; plant tissues for metal content and bioaccumulation; and growth parameters were measured pre-reproduction. Data showed SPS increased soil organic carbon (121- 185% in control vs. 1,021-1,316% at 10 t ha⁻¹), organic matter, and water holding capacity; nitrogen rose from 1,200-1,450 to 2,100-2,300 mg kg⁻¹; macro- and micronutrient levels increased dose-dependently. Heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and chromium exceeded FAO limits at higher rates. Maize benefited from SPS, with height and dry matter up by 69-83% and 55-140%, respectively; rice showed growth inhibition at higher rates despite more tillers. Tissue metal levels were higher in rice; bioaccumulation factors often below 1.0, except for Co, Zn, and Mn at higher doses. Low SPS (≤2.5 t ha⁻¹) improved soil fertility while keeping metal levels near background; higher rates risk metal accumulation. Maize tolerated metals better than rice. Plants were harvested before grains fully matured, so actual grain safety is unknown. Six months limit long-term assessment of metal buildup and system sustainability. Results suggest 2.5 t ha⁻¹ as a tentative safe maximum, but multi-year studies are needed before commercial use.
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