The role of biomeliorants in reducing soil electrical conductivity and salinity

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of biomeliorants on soil electrical conductivity and salinity under the arid conditions of the Syrian Arab Republic. Field experiments were conducted using compost, biopreparations based on Bacillus bacteria, and their combination. Electrical conductivity was measured at four depths: 0-25 cm, 26-50 cm, 51-75 cm and 76-100 cm. The methodology included the use of graphite electrode cells and a conductometer calibrated with standard potassium chloride (KCl) solutions. Soil samples were collected from various depths, dried at 105°C, sieved through a 2 mm sieve, mixed with distilled water in a 1:2 ratio, stirred, and left for 24 hours. Three measurements of electrical conductivity were then taken for each sample. The results showed a significant reduction in soil electrical conductivity with the application of biomeliоrants particularly at the 0-25 cm depth. Two-factor ANOVA and Tukey’s test confirmed statistically significant differences between the experimental treatments.
The combination of compost and biopreparations demonstrated the greatest effectiveness in reducing electrical conductivity. These findings indicate the high efficiency of biomeliorants in improving soil conditions and reducing salinity, which is crucial for sustainable agriculture in arid regions. The introduction of biomeliorants helped reduce the content of soluble salts and improve soil structure, ultimately leading to increased crop yields.