The Tribune

IN today’s rapidly evolving world, university students have the potential to drive significant progress through dedicated research. Aaliyah Adderley, a 2023 BSc in biology with a minor chemistry graduate of University of The Bahamas (UB), is a prime example of this potential realised. Her research into sustainable farming solutions has shown how academic pursuits can have a profound impact on local communities and industries.

As part of Aaliyah’s coursework for biology 480 and biology 490, she embarked on a research project with unanticipated far-reaching implications for the Bahamian agricultural sector. She studied the potential use of macro-algae, specifically sargassum species, as a bio-fertiliser. This type of seaweed, which appears annually in The Bahamas, was evaluated for its ability to enhance soil quality in Long Island.

The study, published in July 2023 and accessible on platforms like ResearchGate and Springer, is titled “Sargassum sp. as a Bio- fertilizer: Is It Really a Key Towards Sustainable Agriculture for The Bahamas.” It examines soil samples from South, Central, and North Long Island to determine if Sargassum can improve soil fertility and support sustainable farming practices.

“Research is a significant component of agriculture,” says Aaliyah. “Research allows one to find optimum conditions for plant growth and high yields. Additionally, adopting sustainable and organic techniques will allow farmers to reduce the use of chemicals that negatively impact the soil, thus maintaining the longevity and health of farmlands. These techniques also protect the environment while improving soil quality and saving energy.”

Aaliyah’s research focused on the impact of sargassum on soil quality and the growth of cherry tomatoes. The study yielded mixed results: while sargassum improved soil health by increasing nutrient concentrations, it negatively impacted plant development. These results align with previous studies showing that algae can improve soil health and plant growth performance. Aaliyah remains optimistic about the implications of her findings.

“I hope that my study will show local farmers and the government that with research, the agricultural industry can be improved,” she says. “With improvements throughout the country, we can decrease the amount of food imported. Additionally, utilising sargassum on a commercial level (fertiliser industry) can provide jobs for many individuals in the country.”

Those findings sup- port prior data that algae, including various sargassum species, have improved soil health and increased plant growth performance including plant height and number of leaves, buds, flowers, and fruits.

“Aaliyah Adderley’s study on sargassum as a bio-fertiliser holds tremendous promise for The Bahamas, particularly in the agricultural sector,” said UB assistant professor of biology Dr Williamson Gustave. “Her innovative research not only addresses the pressing need for sustainable agricultural practices, but also under- scores the potential dangers of using sargassum as a bio-fertiliser. This study has the power to revolutionise how we approach agriculture in our country and inspire further research into sustainable solutions.”

Beyond its immediate findings, this research underscores the importance of student engagement in scientific inquiry. It exemplifies UB’s vision to be a primary resource for research, innovation, and community engagement.

“I am exceptionally proud of Aaliyah’s dedication and the meaningful contribution she has made to the field of research” added Dr Gustave. “Her study not only demonstrates her passion for science, but also her commitment to addressing real world challenges. Aaliyah’s work exemplifies the spirit of inquiry and innovation that we encourage in our students, and it sets a high standard for future research endeavours.”

• “Gain An Edge” is a collaboration of Lyford Cay Foundations, the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) and University of The Bahamas (UB) aimed at promoting a national dialogue on issues surrounding education. To share your thoughts, email gainanedge@tribunemedia. net.