RESÍDUO DE TANQUES DE CULTIVO DO PEIXE PINTADO COMO ALTERNATIVA PARA A PRODUÇÃO DE TOMATE TIPO 'GRAPE': CARACTERÍSTICAS FISIOLÓGICAS, CRESCIMENTO E COMPONENTES DE PRODUÇÃO

Abstract

Modern agriculture faces the challenge of ensuring food security while mitigating environmental impacts associated with the intensive use of synthetic fertilizers. In parallel, aquaculture generates nutrient-rich waste that constitutes an environmental liability. This thesis validated the potential of solid waste from pintado (Pseudoplatystoma corruscans) farming as a biofertilizer in 'Sweet Heaven' tomato plants. The effects of five substrate substitution doses (0, 15, 30, 45, and 60%) on agronomic, physiological, and metabolic characteristics were investigated in two complementary experiments. Results demonstrated that residue from earthen ponds positively impacted plant vigor and physiology, with a linear increase in photosynthetic rate and stem diameter as doses increased. Although fresh fruit mass did not statistically differ among treatments, quality showed marked improvement: the 30% dose provided the highest total soluble solids content (°Brix). However, high doses (from 45% onwards) induced a physiological cost, evidenced by increased lipid peroxidation (MDA) and activation of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and POX), particularly in the vegetative stage. It is concluded that pintado waste is a high-potential input, with the 30% to 45% range recommended to optimize fruit quality and physiological performance without compromising production.