Abstract
In view of the improper use of chemical fertilizers in sustainable agricultural practices, a pot as well as a field experiment were carried out to evaluate the effect of Glomus mosseae (biofertilizer), sole Nitrogen + Phosphorus + Potassium (NPK) a chemical fertilizer, and the combination of Glomus mosseae + NPK on total growth and yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). A significant difference was observed between Glomus mosseae, sole NPK and combination of Glomus mosseae + NPK with respect to the control in the pot as well as field trails. Application of bio-fertilizer in form of Glomus mosseae was more effective in its role of enhancing physiological, biochemical, essential nutrient levels and total crop yield of groundnut as compared to chemical fertilizer used in form of NPK and the combination of Glomus mosseae +NPK. Our study signifies the use of Glomus mosseae as a cost-effective, eco- friendly biofertilizer, which may reduce the amount of excessive use of chemical fertilizer needed for groundnut production and sustainable agricultural practices.