The cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the soil can be impacted by biofertilizers in both direct and indirect ways. cation (positively charged ions) such as calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), potassium (K+), and ammonium (NH4+) are necessary nutrients for plant growth. CEC is a measurement of the soil’s capacity to store and exchange these cations. Here are several ways that biofertilizers may affect CEC:
Supply of nutrients: Some biofertilizers, such as phosphate-solubilizing bacteria and mycorrhizal fungus, increase the soil’s ability to hold onto nutrients like phosphorus (P). The pool of exchangeable cations increases when these nutrients are released or made more accessible in the soil, which benefits the CEC.
Organic acids are secreted by several biofertilizers, particularly phosphate-solubilizing bacteria and mycorrhizal fungus. These organic acids can help nutrient insoluble forms to become soluble.
Improved soil structure: Biofertilizers that encourage soil aggregation and enhance soil structure result in increased CEC. The capacity of the soil to store and release cations to plants is increased in well-aggregated soils because they have more surface area for cation exchange.
Microbial activity is sparked in the soil by the presence and activity of beneficial microorganisms found in biofertilizers. Organic matter is broken down by microbial activity, which increases the CEC by releasing cations into the soil solution.
Biofertilizers can help with root exudates and root health. Organic substances called root exudates are generated by plant roots, and they can combine with cations to become more mobile and available for soil exchange.
