June 2024
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In arid and semi-arid areas, integrated agriculture aquaculture (IAA) system represents an effective approach for sustainable agriculture and food Security. This study presents the effects fish water (FW), used in crop irrigation, on agricultural production and soil fertility. The experimental plot was divided into four subplots; two of them were cultivated by pea and the two others by faba bean. The crops were irrigated by both FW and borehole water BW (control subplots). FW and BW qualities were evaluated using their physicochemical properties and Water quality index (WQI). Their effects on soil fertility were estimated by analyzing soil organic matter and assessment of abundance and biomass of earthworms. Then, their impact on yield parameters was estimated. The results revealed that using WQI, FW was classified "excellent" for irrigation. It has increased soil fertility since the soil irrigated with BW was moderately rich in organic matter (1.9% and 1.3%) whereas soil irrigated by FW was rich (2.77% and 2.79%). The abundance and biomass of earthworms were significantly higher in the subplots irrigated by FW. Regarding, crops yields, both faba bean and pea were significantly influenced by FW. For instance, a significant increase in pods number per plant was counted for faba bean irrigated by FW compared with control (43.2 and 27.2 respectively) and pods weight per plant in pea had significantly increased (30.49%). The results indicate clear evidence that FW irrigation system optimizes water consumption, increases crops production and improves soil fertility.