Abstract
Application of
Chlorella vulgaris
,
Nannochloropsis salina
and
Enterobacter cloacae
has been reported to improve the growth of multiple plant species.
Moringa oleifera
is a medicinal plant found in Saudi Arabia. Its leaves, flowers and fruit have been used as food.
Moringa oleifera
is rich in rutin and gallic acid and many other bioactive compounds, which collectively contribute to its demonstrated range of pharmacological activities. In Saudi Arabia, the semi-arid and arid weather presents a significant challenge to agriculture. High salinity in cultivated land is a particular threat. We applied
Chlorella vulgaris
,
Nannochloropsis salina
, and
Enterobacter cloacae
at multiple salinities to
Moringa oleifera
to investigate their effects on the growth, yield, and photosynthetic pigment content. We also examined possible changes in the phytochemical composition. The application of
Chlorella vulgaris
,
Nannochloropsis salina
and
Enterobacter cloacae
enhanced plant growth and yield, while inhibition was observed at high (6000 ppm) salinity. The presence of
Chlorella vulgaris
and
Nannochloropsis salina
altered plant growth and yield and rutin and gallic acid content of
Moringa oleifera
plants grown in saline conditions. Microalgae species were recommended for use as a bio-fertiliser alternative to mainstream synthetic fertilisers.