An Assessment of the Effect of Azotobacter on the Mineral and Vitamin Content of Amaranthus viridis

Abstract

Amaranthus viridis is a vegetable widely grown and consumed in Nigeria. There is the need for a sustainable approach that will enhance its cultivation and growth. This study was conducted in response to the growing concern about the insufficient supply of essential minerals and vitamins in vegetables, which contributes to nutrient deficiencies in human diets. The research aimed to assess the effect of Azotobacter treatment on the mineral and vitamin content of Amaranthus viridis. The study involved treating Amaranthus viridis plants with varying concentrations of Azotobacter (100g, 200g, 300g, 400g, viable and very viable), and comparing them with the control. The results revealed that at 400g inoculation, nitrogen increased by 98%, magnesium by 320%, calcium by 686%, and copper by a massive 8575% compared to the control.Some treatments however reduced nutrients, phosphorous at 200g dropped by 82% compared to the untreated one control. Vitamin B1 showed its greatest improvement at 400g, with an increase of 55.6%, while the Viable treatment caused a slight reduction. Vitamin B2 was boosted most strongly under the Viable treatment, recording a 50% increase, though 400g and 300g also gave substantial gains. For Vitamin C, the highest effect was observed at 400g with a 57.9% increase, followed by Very Viable with 34.2%. Vitamin E recorded the most remarkable response, with a 300% increase at 400g and 200% under Very Viable. The findings suggest that higher concentrations of Azotobacter positively influence the mineral and vitamin content in Amaranthus viridis, enhancing its nutritional quality. This study shows that Azotobacter can be used as a biofertilizer to improve the mineral profile of leafy vegetables, contributing to better human health through improved dietary intake and in sustainable agriculture.