Effect of Animal ByProducts Fertilization on Durum Wheat in Mediterranean Conditions: Preliminary Results.

This study aims to evaluate the effects of new-BioFertilizing Amendments (BFAs) deriving from fast organic matter decomposition of Animal ByProducts (ABPs) in comparison with ordinary soil organic amendments (compost), mineral N-fertilizers and no fertilization, on durum wheat development and production in a field trial under Mediterranean conditions. Results showed taller plants with heavier spikes and greater vigor in plots fertilized with BFAs when compared to no fertilization and N-fertilization, respectively. Likewise, BFAs fertilization resulted in higher protein content, gluten content, protein yields and higher values of yellow index with respect to no fertilization and N-fertilization. In contrast, lower values for test weight in correspondence of BFAs fertilization as well as no statistically significant differences on grain yield and gluten index were found. These preliminary results suggest that replacing N-fertilization with BFAs can be effective to ensure crop quality and yield stability in Mediterranean conditions.