Question

Why are biofertilizers preferred over chemical fertilizers?

Answer 1

Biofertilizers are preferred over chemical fertilizers because they are not harmful. They contain organic materials while chemical fertilizers are made up of harmful chemicals. Another reason is that biofertilizers do not reduce the fertility of the soil while continuous.

Complete answer:
BIOFERTILIZER-
A biofertilizer (also bio-fertilizer) is a substance that comprises living microorganisms. This when applied to seeds, plant surfaces, or soil, colonizes the rhizosphere or the interior of the plant and promotes growth by increasing the supply of primary nutrients to the host plant. They add nutrients through the natural processes of nitrogen fixation, solubilizing phosphorus, and stimulating plant growth through the synthesis of growth-promoting substances. The microorganisms in biofertilizers renovate the soil's natural nutrient cycle and build soil organic matter. Through the use of biofertilizers, healthy plants can be grown and enhance the sustainability and the health of the soil. They reduce the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Since they play various roles, a preferred scientific term for such beneficial bacteria is "plant-growth promoting rhizobacteria" (PGPR).

CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS-
The term “chemical fertilizer” refers to any number of synthetic compound substances that are created specifically to increase crop yield. Complex (or blended) chemical fertilizers often comprise a mix of ammonium phosphate, nitro phosphate, potassium, and other nutrients.

Note: Examples of Biofertilizers are - Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Azospirillum, and blue-green algae (BGA). They have been in use for a long time. Whereas examples of chemical fertilizers are- Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, and NPK. They are the “Big 3” primary nutrients in commercial fertilizers.