Autor(es)

Ferreira, Pedro H. Narciso ; Silva, Nicholas Vinicius ; Woloche, Camila Santos ; de Sousa, Juliet Emilia Santos ; da Silva, Jean Constantino Gomes ; Cassiano, Gabrielle Henriquetto ; Pereira, Victor Henrique ; Carazzolle, Marcelo Falsarella ; Pereira, Goncalo Amarante Guimaraes ; de Abreu, Luis Guilherme Furlan

• Tipo de documento: Artigo Científico
• Fonte: BIOMASS & BIOENERGY; v. 205, p. 11-pg., 2025-10-24.

Resumo

The progression of climate change, largely driven by fossil fuel use, has intensified the search for sustainable energy alternatives. In this context, Agave spp. has emerged as a promising crop for bioenergy, especially in Brazilian semi-arid regions, due to its high productivity, drought resistance, and ability to grow in marginal soils. However, these areas are often characterized by limited-use soils based on physical, chemical and/or biological soil characteristics. The application of biochar, a carbon-rich material derived from pyrolyzed organic residues, has shown potential to improve soil quality and plant growth. Based on this, the present study evaluated the effects of different biochar concentrations (5 %, 10 %, and 20 %, v/v) on early Agave sisalana development and soil physicochemical and microbiological properties. Biochar application, particularly at 10 %, led to notable gains in plant morphology, including similar to 30 % increases in leaf area and similar to 60 % in leaf biomass compared to the control. Root development also improved, especially in root length and surface area. In soil, biochar enhanced organic matter content, cation exchange capacity, moisture retention, and microbial abundance, along with increased activity of nutrient-cycling enzymes. In contrast, the 20 % dose showed a plateau or decline in benefits, indicating a potential optimal application threshold. These findings highlight the role of biochar as a multifunctional amendment that can support productive and sustainable agriculture in resource-limited environments, while enhancing soil health and contributing to climate change mitigation. (AU)

• Processo FAPESP: 25/03780-4 - O potencial do agave para bioenergia: Integração de biochar e microbiota do solo para o aumento da produtividade e sustentabilidade energética
• Beneficiário: Pedro Henrique Narciso Ferreira
• Modalidade de apoio: Bolsas no Brasil - Doutorado Direto