Organic Fertilizer from Discarded Parts of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) as

Alternative Fertilizer to Allium cepa (Onion)

A Science Investigatory Project Proposal

Submitted to:
Ms. Jude Ann Mae G. Navarro
Research Teacher

In fulfilment of the requirements in Research IV

Lian Jae Elizalde

Jhon Paul Mones

Angelo Gabriel Suelo

Dym Heart Sevilla

Gwyn Alanis Honrejas

MARCH 2019
 ii

APPROVAL SHEET

This Science Investigatory Project entitled “Organic Fertilizer from Discarded

Parts of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) as Alternative Fertilizer to Allium

cepa (Onion)”, prepared and submitted by the researchers Lian Jae Elizalde,

Jhon Paul F. Mones, Gwyn Alanis Honrejas, Angelo Gabriel Suelo, and Dym

Heart Sevilla in partial fulfillment of the requirements in Research IV has been

examined and is recommended for ORAL EXAMINATION.

JUDE ANN MAE G. NAVARRO

Research Teacher

PANEL OF EXAMINERS

Approved by the Committee on Oral Examination._______________

RITCHE B. JUNSAY, PH. D.

Chairperson

ZAIRALYN L. DAYANAN, MT-II MARJORETTE Q. NACIONAL, T-III

Member Member

JASON A. GUANZON, MT-II

Member
Accepted and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements in
Research IV
FELICITAS S. QUINTERO
Science, Technology, and Engineering Coordinator

Date
 iii

Abstract

Discarded Parts of Oreochromis niloticus can be used as organic liquid

fertilizer on the growth of Allium cepa (Onion) Plant. This study focus to

determine the significant difference of using Discarded Parts of Oreochromis

niloticus and the commercial fertilizer on the growth and development of Allium

cepa (Onion) in terms of the total averageon the height of the plant, number of

leaves and the weight of the plant.

There were three treatments used in the study. Treatment A (600mL of

Discarded Parts of Oreochromis niloticus and 400 mL of Tap Water), Treatment

B (Commercial Liquid Fertilizer), and Treatment C (Water). The results showed

that the attained growth characteristics of Onion by the commercial fertilizer in

comparison to the attained results on the experimental organic fertilizer

(especially Treatment A) were only minimal. Wherein the results also suggest

that the researcher-made organic fertilizers were also feasible in achieving better

growth of Onion. There is no significant difference on the growth and

development of Allium cepa (Onion) plant as affected by the Discarded Parts of

Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) used as an organic liquid fertilizer and the

commercial fertilizer. Increasing the amount of Discarded Parts of Oreochromis

niloticus can enhance the growth of onion plant.

 iv

Acknowledgement

The accomplishment of this study has been done not only by the

researchers but with the help of various individuals. The researchers would like

to extend their warmest gratitude to the following.

First of all, to the Almighty father who showered his blessings and

guidance to the researchers to finish their study.

Second, to their parents Mr. and Mrs. Elizalde, Mr. and Mrs. Mones, Mr.

and Mrs. Honrejas, Mr. and Mrs. Suelo, and Mr. and Mrs. Sevilla for their moral

support , financial support, and for the guidance given during the conduct of the

study.

Third, to Mr. and Mrs. Elizalde for letting the researchers use their

resources used in the study and also to Mr. and Mrs. Mones for letting the

researchers use their house to conduct the study.

Fourth, to Mrs. Felicitas S. Quintero and STE Faculty for extending their

help and support through the use of the STE Resource Room.

Fifth, to Ms. Jude Ann Mae G. Navarro (Research Teacher) for her

unending support to her students.

Sixth, to the 10-Einstein family for imparting their knowledge and

extending their help regardless of the distance which has provided strength for

the researchers to finish their study.

THE RESEARCHERS
 v

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page…………………………………………………………………….……i

Approval Sheet…………………………………………………………………...ii

Abstract…………………………………………………………………………...iii

Acknowledgement……………………………………………………………….iv

Table of Contents ………………………………………………………………vii

Chapter I The Problem and Its Setting

Background of the Study…………………………………..............................1

Statement of the Problem……………………………………………..……….2

Null Hypothesis…………………………………………………….……………3

Significance of the Study……………………………………………………….3

Scope and Delimitations………………………………………………………..3

Definition of Terms……………...………………………………………………4

Chapter II – Review of Related Literature

Organic Fish Fertilizer…………………………………………….……….…..5

Nile Tilapia…………………….…………………………….…..….…………..6

Onion……………….…………………………………………..…….………...8

Related Studies…………………………………...…………………..………10

Chapter III – Methodology

Research Design…………………..………………...………………………..19

Materials…………………..……………………………………………………21

Research Procedure…………………..………...……………………………22
 Pre-Experimental……………………………………………………….………22

Experimental Stage……………………………………………………….……22

Post-Experimental……………………………………………………….……..22

Statistical Treatment………………………………………………..…….….…23

Chapter IV – Results and Discussions

Table 2…………………………………………………………………….………24

Table 3…………………………………………………………………………….26

Chapter V – Summary, Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations

Summary…………………………………………………………………….…..28

Findings…………………………………………………………………….…….29

Conclusions……………………………………………………………….….….30

Recommendations…………………………………………….………….….…30

References……………………………………………………………………..……...32

Appendices

Appendix A…………………………………………………………………………....34

Appendix B……………………………………………………………………………36

Curriculum Vitae………………………………………………………..……………43
 Chapter I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING

A. Background of the Study

Nearly 60 million people are involved in fisheries and aquaculture. About

97% of the world's fishermen live in developing countries. Fishing is a major

source of food and income to them. Nowadays, fish is one of the world's most

traded commodities. However, fish is not an endless resource. Nearly 90% of the

world's stocks of marine fish are fully exploited, over- exploited or depleted. In

simple terms, we have reached the limits of possibly one of the last natural

harvesting activities in the world. More production of fishes also means more fish

wastes. Some of the by-products are utilized today, but huge amounts are

wasted (Kituyi, 2017).

The Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is a deep-bodied fish with cycloid

scales. It grows up to 62 cm, weighing 3.65 kg (at an estimated 9 years of age). It

prefers shallow, still waters on the edge of lakes and wide rivers with sufficient

vegetation. Nile tilapia have been farmed for centuries. The culture of the tilapia

genus on a global scale, primarily Oreochromis mossambicus, began in the

1940s. However, it was not until the 1960s that O. niloticus was exported

worldwide (FAO, 2012). Nile tilapia is primarily herbivorous, with aquatic

macrophytes, algae and diatoms accounting for more than 90% of its diet and the

rest, including aquatic insects, crustaceans and fish eggs (Schofield, 2016) .
 2

Fertilizers are substances containing chemical elements such as manure

or mixture of nitrates that improves the growth of plants. They give nutrition to the

crops. When added to soil or water, plants can develop tolerance against pests

like weeds, insects and diseases. Misuse of agricultural fertilizers have

undoubtedly occurred, and its impact on the environment needs to
 be

minimized. Hence, the researchers came up with a research study to help lessen

the discarded parts of the fish, specifically Nile Tilapia which is one of the most

abundant fishes here in the Philippines being wasted.

B. Statement of the Problem

General Objective

The researchers aimed to make a useful by-product out of discarded parts

from Oreochromis Niloticus to help lessen the wastes that it produce. It is also to

promote an organic and chemical-free products in farms.

Specifically, this study sought to answer the following questions:

1. What are the effects of the organic fertilizer made from the discarded parts

of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) on the growth and development of Allium

cepa (Onion):

a. Height of the plant

b. Number of leaves

c. Weight of the plant

2. Which of the following treatments: (Treatment A and B) is effective on the

growth and development of Allium cepa?

 3

3. Is there any significant difference on the growth and development of the

fertilizer from discarded parts of Nile Tilapia and commercial fertilizer?

Null Hypothesis

There is no significant difference on the growth and development of Allium

cepa (Onion) between the fertilizer made from the discarded parts of tilapia as an

alternative fertilizer and the commercial fertilizer.

Significance of the Study

The study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of tilapia as an

alternative raw material in making organic fertilizer. The researchers would like to

lessen the discarded parts of Oreochromis Niloticus (Tilapia) thrown everywhere

and make it useful by making it into a fertilizer to help not only farmers but also

anyone.

Scope and Delimitation

This study was focused on the development of Tilapia (Oreochromis

niloticus) “discarded parts” on making a fertilizer to Onion (Allium cepa). It was

conducted to determine if there is a significant difference between the organic

fertilizer and the commercial fertilizer in terms of: Height of the plant, number of

leaves, and the weight of the plant. This was conducted at the researcher’s

house, Superville, Subd. Lagao, General Santos City between the months of July

and December.
 4

Definition of Terms

The following terms are defined conceptually and operationally for better

understanding.

Nile tilapia. Conceptually defined as a deep-bodied fish with cycloid scales,

Silver in color with olive/grey/black body bars. Operationally

defined as where the raw materials came of the study.

Organic Fertilizer. Conceptually defined as a plant fertilizer that is derived from

animal matter, animal excreta, human excreta, and vegetable matter.

Operationally defined as the product output the researchers would like

to come up to.

Allium cepa (Onion) Coceptually defined as the bulb onion or common onion, is

a vegetable that is the most widely cultivated species of the genus

Allium. Operationally defined as the variable the product would be

applied to.

Fermentation. Conceptually defined as a metabolic process that produces

chemical changes in organic substrates through the action of enzymes.

Operationally defined as the process to make the organic fertilizer.

 Chapter II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND RELATED STUDIES

This chapter presents the related literature and studies after the thorough

and in-depth search done by the researchers.

RELATED LITERATURE

Organic Fish Fertilizer

Fish fertilizer is made from whole fish and carcass products, including

bones, scales and skin. Rather than let unusable fish products go to waste, these

items are converted into nutrients for the garden. Different types of fish, this

product is then processed to make it into a fertilizer, which are used for other

industries (Moravec, 2015).

With increasing human population, the demand for fish also increased.

However, it was estimated that for every fish that was consumed, an equal

amount of discarded parts becomes a waste or a low value by-product. Fish

production can generate giant amounts of effluent, such as waste feed and

feces, medications and pesticides, which have undesirable influences on

environment. Fish waste administration has been one of the troubles that have

the biggest impact in the environment (Arvanitoyannis, 2008).

Fish fertilizer is an excellent source of many nutrients. As natural,

available forms of nitrogen and phosphorus in particular, they’re especially

 6

valuable when you don’t have enough humus in your soil yet. Fish fertilizer

products are high in good old NPK – nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. If we

believed the line that chemical fertilizer companies try to sell us, we’d think these

three nutrients were the only ones that mattered to plants. Fortunately, we now

know that plants need a wide variety of mineral nutrients in specific ratios, as well

as healthy soil life, to thrive. But that doesn’t mean nitrogen, phosphorus, and

potassium is anything to sneeze at. Having a balanced, continuous supply of

these nutrients is essential to plant growth and health (Hurst, 2013).

Liquid fish fertilizer can be created from fish waste that has been diced

and digested with enzymes. The process is to ferment the fish waste using

glucose. This type of fish fertilizer is made from the discarded parts of fish. It has

a lower pH than fish emulsion, so it preserves more vitamins, proteins and micro-

nutrients than the other two fish fertilizers. Liquid fish fertilizer has all of the main

nutritional elements of a whole fish (such as amino acids, growth hormones and

micronutrients) that are chelated, so they are easy for the plant to consume. This

type of fish fertilizer also have odor and is applied as a soil drench or spray

(Wise, 2008).

Nile Tilapia

The Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus is a deep-bodied fish with cycloid

scales. Silver in colour with olive/grey/black body bars, the Nile tilapia often

flushes red during the breeding season. It grows to a maximum length of 62 cm,

weighing 3.65 kg (at an estimated 9 years of age. The average size (total length)

of Oreochromis niloticus is 20 cm (Bwanika et al.2004).

 7

Nile tilapia is a tropical species that prefers to live in shallow water. The

lower and upper lethal temperatures for Nile tilapia are 11-12 °C and 42 °C,

respectively, while the preferred temperature ranges from 31 to 36 °C. It is an

omnivorous grazer that feeds on phytoplankton, periphyton, aquatic plants, small

invertebrates, benthic fauna, detritus and bacterial films associated with detritus.

Nile tilapia can filter feed by entrapping suspended particles, including

phytoplankton and bacteria, on mucous in the buccal cavity, although its main

source of nutrition is obtained by surface grazing on periphyton mats. Sexual

maturity in ponds is reached at an age of 5-6 months. Spawning begins when the

water temperature reaches 24 °C (Towers, 2010).

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is a type of fish used in the aquaponics

system. Nile tilapia has a good level of tolerance for different environmental

conditions, is well grown in the aquaponic system with vegetables and has a high

economic value (Effendi, Wahyuningsih, Yusli Wardiatno, 2016).

The Nile tilapia is an omnivorous animal that feeds on both plankton and

aquatic plants. It generally feeds in shallow waters, as harmful gases (such as

carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia and temperature fluctuations

found in deep waters create problems for the physiology of the fish. The Nile

tilapia flourish on the warmer temperatures commonly found in shallow waters

compared to the colder environment of the deep lake. In general, tilapias are

macrophyte-feeders, feeding on a diverse range of filamentous algae and

plankton (Linnaeus, 2004).

 8
Onion

Onions are so commonplace in today's society that we tend to forget their

importance and the variety of uses they have. They are valuable culinary

vegetables, and also have medicinal value. Some make ornamental

contributions to the garden, and they are important Companion Plants for other

vegetables. On the surface they seem like a simple vegetable, but underneath

they have an interesting story. Onions are high in Vitamin C, a good source of

fibre; sodium fat and cholesterol free (Robbins, 2011).

Onions are a nutrient-dense food, meaning that while they are low in

calories, they are high in beneficial nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and

antioxidants. One cup of chopped onion contains approximately 64 calories, 15

grams of carbohydrate, 0 grams of fat, 0 grams of cholesterol, 3 grams of fiber, 7

grams of sugar, 2 grams of protein, and 10 percent or more of the daily value for

vitamin C, vitamin B-6, and manganese. Onions also contain small amounts of

calcium, iron, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, and the

antioxidants quercetin and sulfur (Ware, 2017).

Onions have been used for their medicinal properties for centuries. They

have antibacterial and antifungal properties, and a paste or Ointment made out of

onion is said to prevent infection in wounds and burns. Another use externally for

age spots, warts, or freckles is to mix onion juice with vinegar and rub on the

affected areas. One amusing bit of folklore says that if you put onion juice on

your head and then sit out in the sun, you can cure baldness. Onions and all the
 9

other members of the Allium family are thought to have some impact on high

cholesterol and blood pressure (Teasdale, 2010)

Onions can be planted from seed or from sets (small partly grown onion

bulbs). Sets are more expensive but they tend to be more reliable in their results

and also require less work - no thinning and reduced onion fly risk. If sowing from

seed then sow in drills about 2cm deep with about 1 inch between seeds. If

sowing in rows then space the rows about 30cm apart. Onions are ready to

harvest a week after their tops have started to fall over and are yellowed. Use a

fork to lift the onions out of the ground. Take care not to damage the skins as this

invites decay organisms in to attack the onion flesh (Davidson and Mc Allister,

2008).

Onions are a high yield crop. Twenty to 50 onions can grow in 1 to 1½

square feet of space. But onions are easily grown in odd spaces alongside both

slower and faster growing vegetables. Green onions can be ready in 20 to 30

days after planting. Dry bulb onions can take 100 to 175 days to reach maturity

(Wada, 2013).
 10

Related Studies

Foreign

Discarded Parts of Fish as Organic Fertilizer

The fishing sector produces large amounts of waste in fish markets and

processing industries. These by-products are mainly used in the manufacture of

fish meal. However, there are other potentially valuable ones. The main purpose

of this work was to obtain a fertilizer suitable for use in organic agriculture, by

composting a mix of seaweed and fish waste. Stabilization tests after two months

of composting indicated that the compost is stable. The degree of stability was

66.7%, which suggests that more than half of the total organic matter was

resistant. Co-composting of fish offal with drift-seaweed allows to reduce greatly

the volume of fisheries by-products (Mosquera, 2011).

A study was conducted to determine the physiochemical of a liquid fish

silage (LFS); pH and macronutrient contents made by fish waste and to reveal

the effectiveness of LFS toward the growth, yield, pigment content and post-

harvest quality of pakchoy. The results show that LFS at 5.0, 7.5 and 10%

produced similar plant growth, yield, pigment content and post-harvest quality as

plant fertilized by commercial fertilizer. In addition, this study recommend to use

0.5% LFS as it is more economical compared to 7.5 and 10.0 (Karim, 2015).
11

Organic fertilizers are generally thought to be an effective way to sustain

soil fertility and plant growth. To promote the productivity of chrysanthemum, five

sources of liquid organic fertilizers (L1–L5), as well as a chemical fertilizer, were

applied at an early stage of the growth cycle to investigate their effects on plant

growth. In the short-term pot experiment, the liquid organic fertilizers significantly

promoted root and aboveground growth by 10.2–77.8% and 10.7–33.3%,

respectively, compared with the chemical fertilizer. The order of growth

promotion was: L1 (shrimp extracts) > L2 (plant decomposition) > L4 (seaweed

extracts)/L5 (fish extracts) > L3 (vermicompost). Morphological and chemical

analyses indicated that, compared with other organic fertilizers, the treatment

with shrimp extract (L1) produced the greatest increases in root dry weight, total

length, surface area, volume, tips, and thick root length, respectively.

Furthermore, the shrimp extract treatment significantly increased the nutrient

contents and altered the soil’s functional microbial community at the rhizospheric

level compared with the chemical fertilizer treatment. Thus, the shrimp extract

liquid organic fertilizer could be part of an effective alternative to chemical

fertilization during the early stage of chrysanthemum growth. (Ji, Dong et al.

2017)

The aim of this work was to study the feasibility of using fish manure

waste as a nutrient source for lactic acid fermentation. Fish waste contains

nitrogen and minerals that could support the growth of lactic acid bacteria (LAB),

making it a good candidate as the nutrient source for lactic acid fermentation.

Two different fish manure wastes, from Nile tilapia and channel catfish

aquaculture, were investigated for their performance on different sugar

substrates. Both fish waste types showed low efficiency in the direct fermentation

of glucose, but satisfactory efficiencies in simultaneous saccharification and

fermentation (SSF) of cellulosic materials, such as pure cellulose and paper

sludge. The highest lactic acid yield obtained was 87% and 91%, with a

corresponding volumetric productivity of 1.006 and 0.580 g L−1 h−1, and

corresponding lactic acid concentration of 96 and 56 g L−1 for cellulose and

paper sludge, respectively. Fish waste concentrations did not show much impact

on lactic acid production for the SSF process, where increasing fish waste from

10 to 30 g L−1 resulted in less than a 10% yield increase. In the present study,

fish manure waste was shown to be an effective and economic nutrient source

for lactic acid production by SSF. (Shi, Li et al. 2018).

Onion

Furrow-irrigated onion (Allium cepa L.) production, with high N fertilization

rates, may be contributing NO3–N to ground water in southeastern Colorado.

This study determined the growth and N uptake patterns of onion grown on a silty

clay soil, N fertilizer use efficiency (NFUE) of onion, and recovery of residual N

fertilizer by corn (Zea mays L.) following onion in rotation. Onion was sampled

biweekly from 18 May to 15 Sept. 1998 from plots receiving 0 and 224 kg N ha −1

Non labeled N and labeled 15N fertilizer were band-applied near the onion row in

split applications of 112 kg N ha−1 each on 18 May and 25 June. Onion dry

matter accumulation was slow from planting to about late May, followed by a

rapid increase in biomass production and N uptake. Because residual soil NO 3–N

was high, N fertilization resulted in only a small increase in bulb yield. Greatest

demand for N by onion occurred during bulb development. Fertilizer N recovery

by onion was 11 and 19% for May and June N applications (average 15%),
 13

respectively. Much of the fertilizer N remained in the upper 60-cm soil profile at

harvest and had moved toward the onion bed center. Fertilizer 15N detected at

180-cm soil depth indicated leaching losses from the root zone. The unfertilized

1999 corn crop recovered 24% of fertilizer N applied to onion for a total fertilizer

N uptake by the two crops of 39%. Delaying N fertilizer application until onion

bulbing begins may improve NFUE. Planting corn directly on the previous onion

bed may result in greater N fertilizer recovery by corn (Halvorson and Follett,

2002).

Phosphates-of-ammonium “starter” fertilizer solution was injected below

onion seeds at sowing on a fertile sandy loam soil given basal N, P and K

applications. Bulb crops were grown from primed and unprimed seed drilled at

six sowing rates to give a threefold range of plant density. Irrigation and nitrogen

application were monitored to ensure that plants remained unstressed

throughout growth. The starter fertilizer resulted in increased P and N and

reduced K content during seedling growth. In both an early-sown and a late-

sown experiment, shoot growth was accelerated by starter fertilizer and shoots

became approximately 50% heavier than those without starter. Growth curves

showed that this was equivalent to a 3-3.5 d advancement of growth. Starter

fertilizers resulted in 1-2.5 d advancement of crop maturity as shown by the date

of 50% foliage fall-down. In the later sown experiment, starter fertilizer reduced

the percentage of non-maturing ‘thick-necked’ bulbs. Bulb yields were not

significantly increased by starter fertilizer. Data showing similar enhancements

of seedling growth on other soils are also discussed. Seed priming advanced
 14

the date of seedling emergence but had no significant effects subsequently.

Increases in plant density advanced the date of crop maturity and increased

total bulb yields (Brewster and Rowse,2015).

This study was carried out to maximize the fertilization efficiency of mixed

organic fertilizer (OF) for organically managed onion (Allium cepa L.) production

during the one growing season of 2005–2006. The organic fertilizer was made of

organic materials like sesame oil, cake, rice bran and molasses and minerals like

illite and mountainous soil. Four organic top dressing treatments, which all

followed the same basal fertilization with solid OF, consisted of solid OF without

mulch (OF/OFnM), liquid organic fertilizer without mulch (OF/LOFnM), liquid

organic fertilizer under mulch (OF/LOFuM) and liquid organic fertilizer over mulch

(OF/LOFoM). Chemical fertilizer (CF) and no fertilizer (NF) were treated as

controls. The solid organic fertilization base was 2.0 ton ha−1, and 4.57 ton ha−1

and was used for topdressing. The total amount of liquid organic fertilization was

133.2 ton ha−1, which was divided into 6 applications from February through

March. The OF/LOFuM and OF/LOFoM top dressings did not reduce onion

height, leaf number or bulb diameter as compared to chemical fertilizer, whereas

no mulch treatments made onion growth significantly poorer. Onion top weight in

CF was significantly higher than that in OF groups at the peak growth stage,

while there was not much difference in bulb weight between the CF and

OF/LOFoM treatment. Finally, the onion marketable yield was 45.9 ton ha−1 in

the OF/LOFoM treatment, which exceeded that in the CF treatment by up to 1.9

ton. Furthermore, OF/LOFoM was the most effective among all the treatments in
 15

transferring the nutrients from sink to source. CF made the soil pH more acidic

than OF did, and the electrical conductivity (EC) remained higher with CF than

OF as well. While organic fertilizer helped to keep the NO3-N content stable

throughout the growing season, the concentration rapidly oscillated up and down

according to CF fertilization. Organic fertilizer increased population number of

soil microorganisms like aerobes, actinomycetes in the field (Lee, 2010).

Local

Organic Fertilizer

Organic vegetable production is characterized as individuals seeking for

safer food and preparing for a better and ecologically

balanced environment. Therefore, it is an ecological management system that

promotes and enhances biodiversity and biological cycles. The study was

conducted in Maddela,Quirino, Region 02 Philippines in year 2016 to

evaluate and assess the effects of solid and liquid fertilizers locally produced on

the growth and yield of eggplant. The experiment was laid out in a randomized

complete block design with four treatments. The different rates of Fish Amino

Acid served as treatments as follows:T0- Control (28 kgs. Organic fertilizer/

treatment/plot); T1- 28 kgs. organic fertilizer per treatment/plot ; 100 ml of FAA +

5 liters of water; T2- 28 kgs. organic fertilizer per treatment/plot: 200 ml of FAA

+ 5 liters of water; T3– 28 kgs. organic fertilizer per treatment/plot: 300 ml of

FAA + 5 liters of water (Garcia, 2003).

 16

Discarded Parts of Fish as Organic Fertilizer

Data from 15 rice‐fish experiments, conducted at the Freshwater

Aquaculture Center of Central Luzon State University. Philippines during the

years 1976‐1983. were analysed using the multiple linear regression technique

with the objective of explaining the variation in fish production from input and

climate data. The experiments dealt with the effects of various management

practices on the production of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.), in

concurrent culture with several varieties of lowland irrigated rice, Oryzasativa

(L.). Climate data were obtained from the nearest weather station. Significant

models (P< 0.001) were derived for gross fish yield (kg/ha), net fish yield (kg/ha),

fish recovery (%), fish growth rate (g/day) and rice yield (kg/ha). For gross fish

yield, 66% of the variation could be explained by seven independent variables:

length of the culture period, fish stocking weight and density, nitrogen and

phosphorus application rates; insecticide application and air temperature. The

interpretation of the regression results is discussed. Despite the problems with

linking regression coefficients to ‘real life’ processes, this kind of exploratory data

analysis, applying modem statistical techniques, can be a useful tool in

summarizing the results of previous research and obtaining more information

from existing data (VAN DAM, 1990).

The study was conducted to compare the growth performance of

Kappaphycus alvarezii fertilized with two sources of fish waste liquid fertilizers at

various concentrations using hanging long-line method for 45 days at Pilaper

Island, Masinloc, Zambales. Growth was measured in terms of weight gain (WG)
 17

and daily growth rate (DGR). Water parameters were also monitored throughout

the experimental period. The fish waste consists of internal organs, gills, scales

and fins of milkfish (Chanos chanos) and tilapia (Sarotherodon melanotheron)

was obtained from the local market in Pangasinan. Processing of samples into

fermented products was done at Chemistry Laboratory of Pangasinan State

University Binmaley Campus. The milkfish and tilapia waste were placed in a

separate fermented vat and added with brown sugar and Effective

Microorganisms (EMO) at ratio of 1:1. Fish waste was then allowed to ferment for

10 to 15 days. The liquid fertilizers were harvested by sieving it with the aid of

fine meshed net. There was significant increase on growth in terms of WG in K.

alvarezii within 4-weeks culture period. Increased in WG and DGR was

significantly high (p < 0.05) when K. alvarezii was fertilized with tilapia

hydrolysate compared to that of the milkfish waste. The highest WG of

169.89±3.202g was obtained for 10 mL L -1 concentration and a DGR of

11.41±0.044 using tilapia fish waste. This study shows that the two fish

hydrolysate could be used as liquid fertilizers to improve the production of K.

alvarezii in hanging long-line (Casaclang, Gregorio, Resuello and Reyes, 2017).

 18

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework

Independent Variables
Treatment A: 600 grams Dependent Variables
of Discarded Parts of Tilapia;
Growth characteristics of
400 mL of Tap Water
Onion in terms of:
Treatment B:
A. Height of the plant
Commercial Liquid Fertilizer (1
liter) B. Number of leaves
Treatment C: Water C. Weight of the Plant

The above figure shows the conceptual framework of the study and the

relationship between the Independent variable (Treatment A: 600 grams of

Discarded parts of Tilapia with 400 mL of tap water, Treatment B which was the

commercial fertilizer, and treatment C which was the water) and the dependent

variable which was the growth of onion (in terms of height of the plant, number of

leaves, and circumference of the stem).

 Chapter III

METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the research methodology, which includes research

design, materials and procedure.

Research Design

This study utilizes Experimental research design. There are three

treatments to be used in the study. Treatment A (Organic Fertilizer), Treatment B

(Commercial Fertilizer), and Treatment C (Water).

Set-ups Components

600 mL of Discarded Parts of Tilapia; 500 mL of

A Tap Water; 195mL Lactobacillus; 45 mL Honey

B Commercial Liquid fertilizer

C Water

Table 1: Treatments that will be used in the study.

The above table shows the treatments that will be used in the study. There

are three treatments that will be used in the study; Treatment A (600 mL of

Discarded Parts of Tilapia; 400mL of tap water, 195mL Lactobacillus, 45 mL

Honey), and we will compare it to both Treatment B (Commercial Liquid

Fertilizer) and Treatment C (Water).

 20

Gathering of Tools and Materials

Conducting the Experiment

Application of Treatments to Allium cepa (Onion)

Gathering, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data Collected

Statistical Treatment

Figure 2. Flowchart or the General Procedure

The above figure shows the general procedure of the study.

First, the researchers would gather the materials that will be used in the

study. Second, the researchers would conduct the experiment, Third, the

researchers would apply the different treatments into the Allium cepa. Fourth, the

researchers would gather, analyze, and interpret the data collected with the use

of Statistical tool.
 21

Materials

Discarded parts of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) was used in the

study. There were 600 grams of discarded parts of tilapia used in the experiment.

195 ml of (Lactobacillus) and honey was used as other ingredients for creating

the organic fish fertilizer. Allium cepa was used to test the effectiveness of the

treatments. A commercial fertilizer was used for comparison of the results of the

growth and development of the onion. Water (4500 mL) was also used as a liquid

ingredient in making liquid fertilizer. Two 1.5 Liter bottle was used to store the

treatments. Empty spray bottles were used to apply the treatments to Allium

cepa. A blender was used in the study to blend the raw materials and the water.

Surgical Gloves was used for protection to avoid direct contact of the

researcher’s skin. A face mask was also used to avoid the inhalation of foul odor

produced by the treatments during the conduct of the experiment. Measuring

cups was used to measure the exact amount of the materials needed in the

study. A measuring tape was used to measure the height and width of the plant.

A Weighing Scale was used to get the exact measurement of the Allium cepa

(Onion).
 22

Procedure

A. Pre-Experimental Procedure

The researchers gathered the materials and prepared it for the

experimentation. Discarded parts of Tilapia were collected from Purok Malakas

Public Market. The researchers washed the materials thoroughly to avoid

spoilage.

B. Experimental Stage

The researchers’ prepared three treatments; Treatment A: 600g of

discarded parts of tilapia with 400 mL of water, Treatment B: Commercial fertilizer

and Treatment C: Water.

The researchers measured the raw material to be used. 600mL of

discarded parts of Tilapia, 400 mL of water would be added and blend it. The

treatments will be placed into two different containers. Honey (65ml) 195 ml

(Lactobacillus) will be added to the mixture. After 3 weeks the researchers will

apply the treatments into the onion every six o’clock (6:00AM/PM) in the morning

and afternoon.

C. Post-Experimental Stage

The researchers then gathered the results. The researchers measured the

height of Allium cepa (Onion) using a measuring tape and used weighing scale to

get the weight of the Allium cepa (Onion). They also counted the number of
 23

leaves of the plant. The result were gathered every Saturday. Then, the

researchers analyzed and interpreted the results.

Statistical Treatment

The following statistical Treatment was employed in the study:

1. To determine the effectiveness of Discarded Parts of Oreochromis

niloticus (Nile Tilapia) as alternative fertilizer to Allium cepa (Onion) in terms of ;

the height of the plant, number of Leaves, circumference of the plant. Weighted

mean was used.

2. To determine the significant difference of discarded parts of Oreochromis

niloticus (Tilapia) as an organic fertilizer and the commercial fertilizer on the

growth of Allium cepa (Onion) Plant, T-test was used.

 Chapter IV

Results and Discussions

This chapter presents the results and discussions of the study. The results

are shown in the succeeding tables.

Organic Fertilizer from Discarded Parts of Oreochromis niloticus

(Tilapia) as Alternative Fertilizer to Allium cepa (Onion).

This study aimed to determine the significant difference of using Discarded

Parts of Oreochromis niloticus and the commercial fertilizer on the growth and

development of Allium cepa (Onion) in terms of the total average difference on

the height of the plant, number of leaves , and the weight of the plant.

Table 2

The Effects of Discarded Parts of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) as

Organic Liquid Fertilizer on the Growth and Development of Allium cepa

(Onion) Plant

Average on Average Average on

Experimental the Height of on the Number the Weight of
Set-Ups the Plant (cm) of Leaves Plant (g)

Treatment A
(600mL Discarded
Parts of Oreochromis 45.9875 10.75 32.5
niloticus, 400 mL of
Tap Water)
Treatment B
(Commercial Liquid 50.4125 13.375 55
Fertilizer)

Treatment C
Water Only 42.2875 10.125 17.5
 25

Table 2 shows the effects of Discarded Parts of Oreochromis niloticus

(Tilapia) as organic fertilizer and the commercial fertilizer on the growth and

development of Allium cepa (Onion). The Organic Liquid Fertilizer had an

average on the height of the plant at 45.9875 cm, an average on the number of

leaves at 10.75 and an average on the weight of the plant at 32.5 grams. The

Commercial Liquid Fertilizer had an average difference on the height of the plant

at 50.41125 cm, an average difference on the number of leaves at 13.375 and an

average difference on the weight of the plant at 55 grams and the water had an

average on the height of the plant at 42.2875 cm, an average on the number of

leaves at 10.125 and an averageon the weight of the plant at 17.5 grams. The

results suggest that there were slight difference on the recorded average

difference on the various growth characteristics of onion plant between the

treatments A and B. The results also suggest that the researcher made product

has a potential to increase the growth and development of a certain plant. The

commercial liquid fertilizer is the most effective treatment than the researcher-

made organic liquid fertilizer.

The results were in consonance with the findings of Karim (2015) on his

study about to determine the effectiveness of a liquid fish silage (LFS); pH and

macronutrient contents made by fish waste and to reveal the effectiveness of

LFS toward the growth, yield, pigment content and post-harvest quality of

pakchoy.
 26

The Significant Difference on the Growth Characteristics of Allium cepa

(Onion) Treated with Organic and Commercial Fertilizer

The results on the growth characteristics of Onion on the Organic and

Commercial fertilizer were compared in order to seek their significant difference.

The following table shows the results of the t-test on the organic and

commercial fertilizer.

Table 3

Significant Difference on the Growth and Development of Allium Cepa

(Onion) When Treated with Experimental Organic Fertilizer and

Commercial Fertilizer

Variables p-value Remarks

Organic Fertilizer There is no significant

Commercial Fertilizer 0.26 difference

***There was no significant difference on Discarded Parts of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) used as an
organic liquid fertilizer and the commercial fertilizer on the growth and development of Allium cepa (Onion)

The above table shows that there is no significant difference on the growth

and development of Allium cepa (Onion) plant when treated with Discarded Parts

of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) used as an organic liquid fertilizer and the

commercial fertilizer since the p-value (0.26) is greater than the level of

significance (0.05). This suggests that there were effects observed on the growth

of Onion plants when treated with the commercial fertilizer and the experimental

organic fertilizer.
 27

The results were not in consonance with the findings of Garces (2008) on a

comparative study between organic fertilizer and chemical fertilizer on the growth

of onion showed a little difference between the attained heights of plants with

organic fertilizer and the synthetic fertilizer. There are times that the chemical

content in a commercial fertilizer are also present in the organic fertilizers.

 Chapter V

Summary, Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations

This chapter presents the summary, findings, conclusions, and

recommendations of the study.

Summary

The researchers aimed to determine the effectiveness of Discarded Parts

of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) as an organic fertilizer on the growth and

development of Onion plant. The researchers wanted to know the significant

difference between the organic fertilizer and the commercial fertilizer on the

growth and development of Onion plant in terms of height of the plant, number of

leaves, and weight of plant.

The research design utilized in the study was Experimental Research

Design, specifically, Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The researchers

employed three different treatments namely, Treatment A; 600 mL of Discarded

Parts of Tilapia; 500 mL of Tap Water, Treatment B; Commercial Liquid Fertilizer,

Treatment C; Water.

The researchers weighed the raw material used such as Discarded Parts

of fish. The researchers then placed the raw material inside the blender and

poured 400 mL of Tap Water. Then, the researchers poured the honey and the

Lactobacillus then placed it in a 1.5 liter empty bottle container then the

researchers allowed it to stay for 2 weeks for Microbial Activity. After 2 weeks,

the mixture was transferred in an empty spray bottle and labeled it. It was applied
 29

to the Onion plant every six o’clock in the morning and in the afternoon for 8

weeks.

During the experimentation, the researchers prepared 3 containers with 3

plants applied with the three treatments and was then compared. After the

experimentation, the researchers then gathered the results and employed

weighted mean and utilized T-Test for the significant difference of the organic

fertilizer and the commercial fertilizer on the growth of Onion plant.

Findings

1. The results show that the Treatment A (600 mL of Discarded

Parts of Tilapia and 400 mL Tap Water) had an average on the height of the

plant at 45.9875 cm, an average the number of leaves at 10.75 and an average

on the weight of the plant at 32.5 grams. The Commercial Liquid Fertilizer had an

average difference on the height of the plant at 50.41125 cm, an average

difference on the number of leaves at 13.375 and an average difference on the

weight of the plant at 55 grams and the water had an average difference on the

height of the plant at 42.2875 cm, an average difference on the number of leaves

at 10.125 and an average difference on the weight of the plant at 17.5 grams.

The results suggest that there were slight difference on the recorded average

difference on the various growth characteristics of onion plant between the

treatments A and B. The results also suggest that the researcher made product

has a potential to increase the growth and development of a certain plant. The
 30

commercial liquid fertilizer is the most effective treatment than the researcher-

made organic liquid fertilizer.

2. The results of T-test showed above table shows that there was

no significant difference on the growth and development of Allium cepa (Onion)

plant when treated with Discarded Parts of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) used

as an organic liquid fertilizer and the commercial fertilizer since the p-value (0.26)

is greater than the level of significance (0.05). This suggests that there were no

effects observed on the growth of Onion plants when treated with the commercial

fertilizer and the experimental organic fertilizer.

Conclusions

After the researchers have conducted the study. The following conclusions

were drawn:

1. There was no significant difference on the growth and development on the

growth and development of Allium cepa (Onion) plant when treated with

Discarded Parts of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) used as an organic liquid

fertilizer and the commercial fertilizer.

2. The researcher-made organic fertilizer has the same effect as the

commercial fertilizer.
 31
Recommendations

The following recommendations were consolidated:

1. There is need to consider some growth characteristics like the length of the

shoot system, average length of leaves and length of the shoot system for

better comparison of the results.

2. The effects of the fertilizer on the nutritional content of the crops are also

recommended to test whether the nutritional contents present in the

specific crop has been lessened or improved by the application of various

treatments, to determine as to whether or not the application of the

treatments would not affect the natural nutritional content and the consumer

would still have the same nutrients

3. The usage of other crops as specimen in the study is also recommended.

The crops with high market value or crops that are commonly used in

Filipino cuisines and the crops that are also in demand in both local and

national market should be used in the study.

 32

References

Abdulgawad I.A.I (2016). Fermentation of Nile Tilapia using Lactobacillus Plantarium for

the Production of Lactic Acid Fertilizer. Retrieved on August 28 2018. Retrieved

from https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/fermentation-of-nile-tilapia-

oreochromis-niloticuswastes-isinglactobacillus-plantarum-for-the-acid-and-ferti-

2252-5211-1000253.php?aid=85321

Grant A. (2018). Composting Fish Wastes: Fish Scraps. Retrieved on August 28 2018).

Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/ingredients/

composting-fish-waste.htm

Kenhudoy (2018). Benefits of Using Fish and Fish waste as Fertilizer. Retrieved on

August 28 2018. Retrieved from https://www.gardenmyths.com/fish-fertilizer-

worth-buying/

Kuete V (2017). Allium cepa. Retrieved on August 28 2018. Retrieved from

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-

sciences/allium-cepa

Mosquera M.E.(2011). Composting Fish waste and seaweed to produce a fertilizer for

use in Organic Agriculture. Procedia Environmental Sciences. Volume 9 pp.

113-117

Rongting J. (2017) Effects of Liquid Orgaic on Plant Growth and Phizospere Soil

Characteristics of Chrysanthemus. Retrieved on August 28 2018. Retrieved from

https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/9/5/841/htm
 33

Suan S. (2018).Nutrient Value of Fish Acid Fermentation by Lactobacillus Pentosis.

Retrieved on August 28 2018. Retrieved from

https:/pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2018/ra/c8ra06142d

Vicente I.S.T.(2013). Impact of Introduced Nile Tilapia (Oreohromis Niloticus) on Non-

Native Aquatic Ecosystems. Pakistan Journal of Biological Science. Volume 16

pp. 121-126

.
 34

Appendix A

The Effects of Discarded Parts of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) as

Organic Liquid Fertilizer on the Growth and Development of Allium cepa

(Onion) Plant

Treatments Average on the Height of the Plant

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Treatment A 39 40.4 42.4 44.8 47.1 49 51.2 54

Organic
Fertilizer

Treatment B 39 42 45.3 49 52.2 55.5 58 62.3

Commercial
Fertilizer

Treatment C 39 39.8 41 42.4 43 43.8 44.3 45

Water

Treatments Average on the Number of Leaves

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Treatment A 9 9 10 10 11 12 12 13
Organic
Fertilizer

Treatment B 11 12 12 13 14 14 15 16
Commercial
Fertilizer

Treatment C 9 9 10 10 10 11 11 11
Water
 35

Treatments Average on
the Weight
of the Plant
1 2

Treatment A
Organic Fertilizer

15 50
Treatment B
Commercial
Fertilizer
10 100
Treatment C
Water
10 25

Significant Difference on the Growth and Development of Allium Cepa

(Onion) When Treated with Experimental Organic Fertilizer and

Commercial Fertilizer

Organic Liquid Commercial

Fertilizer Fertilizer
Mean 29.74583333 39.59583333
Variance 316.1094271 520.9103646
Observations 3 3
Pearson Correlation 0.8824697
Hypothesized Mean Difference 0
Df 2
t Stat -1.552083515
P(T<=t) one-tail 0.13041286
t Critical one-tail 2.91998558
P(T<=t) two-tail 0.260825719
t Critical two-tail 4.30265273
 36

Appendix B

Documentation

Pre-Experimental Stage

Figure 3. Gathering of Discarded Parts of Tilapia

Figure 4. Cleaning of Discarded Parts of Tilapia

 37

Experimental Stage

Figure 5. Putting the materials inside the blender

Figure 6. Putting the blend materials inside the container

 38

Figure 7. Counting the initial number of leaves

Figure 8. Initial weighing of Allium cepa before planting

 39

Figure 9. Measuring the initial height of plant

Figure 10. First week of applying treatments

 40

Post-Experimental Stage

Figure 11. Last week of applying the treatments

Figure 12. Removing dirt for final listing of data

 41

Figure 12. Counting the final number of leaves

Figure 13. Final weighing of the Plant

 42

Figure 14: Measuring the final height of the plant

 43

Curriculum Vitae

Personal Information

Name : Lian Jae L. Elizalde

Age : 16

Date of Birth : October 05, 2002

Place of Birth : General Santos City

Religion : Roman Catholic

Email Address : [email protected]

Home Address : Blk. 3 Falgui Subd. Lagao GSC

Mobile Number : 09063796547

Father’s Name : Jay D. Elizalde

Mother’s Name : Lea L. Elizalde

Educational Background

Elementary Level : Lagao Central Elem. School

Year Graduated : 2014

Awards : With Honor

Secondary Level : Lagao National High School

Year Graduated : 2019

Awards : With Honor

 44

Personal Information

Name : Jhon Paul F. Mones

Age : 16

Date of Birth : October 17, 2002

Place of Birth : General Santos City

Religion : Roman Catholic

Email Address : [email protected]

Home Address : Superville Subd. Lagao, GSC

Mobile Number : 090461551760

Father’s Name : Conrado T. Mones

Mother’s Name : Charity F. Mones

Educational Background

Elementary Level : Jose C. Catolico Sr. Elem. School

Year Graduated : 2014

Awards : Salututorian

Secondary Level : Lagao National High School

Year Graduated : 2019

Awards : With Honor

 45

Personal Information

Name : Gwyn Alanis M. Honrejas

Age : 16

Date of Birth : July 05, 2002

Place of Birth : General Santos City

Religion : Roman Catholic

Email Address : [email protected]

Home Address : Purok Masunurin Bryg. San Isidro GSC

Mobile Number : 09655010758

Father’s Name : Jose Kenneth C. Honrejas

Mother’s Name : Glenda M. Honrejas

Educational Background

Elementary Level : Jose C. Catolico Sr. Elem. School

Year Graduated : 2014

Awards : With Honor

Secondary Level : Lagao National High School

Year Graduated : 2019

Awards : With Honor

 46

Personal Information

Name : Angelo Gabriel A. Suelo

Age : 15

Date of Birth : September 11, 2003

Place of Birth : General Santos City

Religion : Baptist

Email Address : [email protected]

Home Address : Brgy. Mabuhay Promised Land

Mobile Number : 09089102998

Father’s Name : Ian Ross N. Suelo

Mother’s Name : Arlene A. Suelo

Educational Background

Elementary Level : Dadiangas West Elem. School

Year Graduated : 2014

Awards : With Honor

Secondary Level : Lagao National High School

Year Graduated : 2019

Awards : With Honor

 47

Personal Information

Name : Dym Heart R. Sevilla

Age : 16

Date of Birth : October 23,2002

Place of Birth : Jaro Ilo-ilo City

Religion : Roman Catholic

Email Address : [email protected]

Home Address : Prk. 13 Panaghiusa Brgy. Mabuhay GSC

Mobile Number : 09072733332

Father’s Name : Joemarie Gaspar

Mother’s Name : Catherine Aparicio

Educational Background

Elementary Level : Dadiangas Heights Elementary School

Year Graduated : 2014

Awards : With Honor

Secondary Level : Lagao National High School

Year Graduated : 2019

Awards : With Honor