ABSTRACT

The utilisation of artificial nitrogen fertilisers in tropical regions is presently a subject of considerable discourse within the context of implementing adaptive strategies in response to climate change. Moreover, considering the exorbitant expenses and substantial carbon emissions associated with livestock farming practises in the northern region of Ecuador, it can be deemed impractical. A research study has been conducted to assess the potential of utilising biol as a viable alternative to partially substitute synthetic chemistry. Consequently, a completely randomised block design was employed to establish many trials, including a control group, a group without fertilisation, a group treated with 100% urea, a group treated with 100% biol, and a group treated with a 50:50 combination of urea and biol. The agronomic characteristics measured for urea were found to be somewhat greater than those for biol (P < 0.001). Significant differences were found in the crude protein (CP) content between urea and biol, with urea exhibiting higher CP content (11.3% vs. 10.8 ± 0.46%; P < 0.001). Additionally, biol exhibited higher dry matter (DM) content and lower neutral detergent fibre (NDF) content compared to urea. Similar nutritional values were found for gross energy (GE) (4.65 ± 0.008 Mcal kg/DM; P = 0.43), PDIM (52.49 ± 1.15 g kg/DM; P = 0.33), and RPB (‒ 17.61 g kg/DM; P = 0.45) in terms of content. Hence, the utilisation of biofertilizers would represent a sustainable approach for the delicate ecosystems in the northern region of Ecuador. However, it is advisable to conduct long-term investigations in order to substantiate our findings.