THE EFFECTIVENESS OF OYSTER SHELLS (Crassostrea rhisophorae)

AND PLICATE CONCH SHELLS (Strombus labiatus) TO THE

GROWTH AND YIELD OF LADY’S FINGER (Abelmoschus
esculentus)

A Research Study Submitted to the Junior High School Department

Nieves Villarica National High School, Island Garden City of Samal,
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements to the
Grade X Curriculum in Research IV

XIANVEE C. ALMACEN
ERBIE JANE N. CAMBARIHAN
MARTINA ALYSSA J. IHALAS
REA MAY M. REVILLA

MAY 2024
 CHAPTER l

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Waste shells are a major by-product, which should become a new raw

material to be used to the best of their potential. Thereafter they modify soils,

waters, and marine ecosystems, particularly if their disposal is uncontrolled.

Consequently, piles of shells can be found all over the world, causing

environmental damage by inadequate preservation infrastructure in

low-income countries. These have components that help plants grow and

become the decomposition of residual tissues attached to shells. (Silva, 2023)

In terms of soil fertilizing, crushed shell as nutrients works great for

both backyard gardens and agricultural operations. These marine materials

naturally release nutrients into the soil and help maintain a healthy pH and

nutrient balance that can greatly benefit your plants. All soil is evaluated on

two basic features: its fertility and its texture. In addition to strengthening the

soil on both these fronts, crushed shells work great for various outdoor

projects because it is both environmentally friendly and provides high quality

drainage.

One of the major benefits of using crushed shell as a natural fertilizer is

the calcium it provides to the surrounding plants. The calcium that is

contained within the crushed shells enters the soil after each shell breaks

down. As they do, more nutrients are provided directly to each plant within the

garden. (Bradley, 2018)

 Lady’s finger (Abelmoschus esculentus), also known as okra or bhindi,

is a green vegetable that is commonly used in cooking. It is a long, slender

pod with a ridged texture and a tapering end. Lady’s Finger is rich in

magnesium, folate, fiber, antioxidants, and the vitamin and helps support

healthy immune function. Soaking cut-up lady’s fingers may help support

healthy pregnancy, heart health, and the blood sugar levels in water overnight

and then drink the juice in the morning. It may even have anticancer

properties. Lady’s finger is low in calories but packed full of nutrients. (Rizzo,

2023)

With this, the researchers came up with a study that aims to help solve

the problem in the yield and growth of lady's finger. The researchers will test

the effectiveness of Mangrove Oyster shells, Plicate conch shells and Mixed

Mangrove Oyster shells and Plicate Conch shells to the growth and yield of

lady's finger (Abelmoschus esculentus). The researchers will test the

effectiveness of these three towards the growth and yield of lady's finger.

Statement of the Problem

The main objective of the researchers is to manipulate the growth and

yield of lady’s finger. Nowadays, Lady’s finger is to expensive and has

become to the people’s problem and may face issues such as seeds not

germinating, roots decayed and more. Therefore, the researchers want to

experiment the Plicate conch (Strombus labiatus) and Mangrove Oyster shell

(Crassostrea rhisophorae) of which is more effective towards the growth and

yield of Lady’s finger.

It specifically seeks to answer the following questions;

1. What is the level of the effectiveness of oyster shell to the growth and

yield of Lady’s finger plant in terms of;

a. Plant height (cm)

b. Number of leaves

c. Diameter of stem (cm)

2. What is the level of the effectiveness of plicate conch to the growth and

yield of lady’s finger plant in terms of;

a. Weight of the fruit

b. Number of lady’s finger fruit

3. Is there a significant difference between oyster shell and plicate conch

as a lady’s finger foliar fertilizer?

Formulation of the Hypothesis

H0: The Mangrove oyster shell and plicate conch have no effect on the growth

and yield of Lady’s finger. (Abelmoschus esculentus)

HA: The mangrove oyster shell and plicate conch have an effect on the growth

and yield of Lady’s finger. (Abelmoschus esculentus)

Significance of the Study

The significance of the study in the growth and yield of lady's finger is

productivity that contributes to the overall of the agricultural sector. In this

study, many people can benefit with the improvement of the growth and yield

of lady's finger in our environment, farmers can make informed decisions

regarding planting schedules, crop nutrition, and harvesting techniques. This

knowledge can lead to increased crop yields and, consequently, higher

productivity in the agricultural sector.

To the community lady's finger cultivation is a significant source of

income for many farmers, it will be easy for the farmers to plant healthy lady’s

finger and shortage will no longer complain about the high prices of lady’s

finger. By studying the growth and yield patterns, the study can provide

insights into maximizing profitability and optimizing resources, thereby

positively impacting the economic well-being of farmers and related industries.

To the future researchers’ studies on the growth and yield of lady's

finger can provide valuable insights for farmers and agricultural professionals.

Understanding the factors that affect the growth and yield of lady's finger can

help optimize cultivation practices, improve crop productivity, and potentially

increase profitability for farmers. Additionally, such studies can contribute to

the overall knowledge and understanding of agricultural practices, leading to

advancements in sustainable farming methods and food production.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study mainly focused on the effect of the variables to the growth and

yield of Lady’s finger (Abelmoschus esculentus). The common component in

both shells is calcium carbonate,potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium It is

responsible for pH control and increased water retention ability (Noah, 2018)

In continuing the study, the researchers will only focus on the growth

and yield of lady’s finger. In addition, there are many kinds of shells, but to be

specific, only oyster shells and plicate conch will be included. Furthermore,

Lady’s finger prefers well-drained, sandy oils that are high in organic matter,

loams, and sandy loams (shrefler, 2019).

Definition of Terms

Fermented Shells- It is a liquid obtained through the fermentation process of

crushed mangrove oyster shell and plicate conch. This process can be used

as a natural fertilizer for improving plant growth and crop yields.

Foliar Spray- It is a technique of feeding plants by applying liquid fertilizer

directly to the leaves, acting as a way to boost the growth of the plant.

Lady’s Finger- It is a plant applied with foliar fertilizer made from shellfish

waste to determine its effectiveness.

Mangrove Oyster shell- It is a crushed shell that will be used in making the

liquid fertilizer.

Plicate Conch- It is also a crushed shell that will be used in making the liquid

fertilizer.
 CHAPTER ll

REVIEW OF RELATED STUDIES AND LITERATURE

Related Studies

Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant, Anti-stress, and Nootropic

Activities

Ladies finger is a well-known tropical vegetable, widely planted from

Africa to Asia and from South Europe to America. In the present study, we

investigated the in vitro antioxidant capacity and in vivo protective effect of the

aqueous and methanolic seed extracts of Abelmoschus esculentus against

scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment using passive avoidance task and

acute restraining stress-induced behavioral and biochemical changes using

elevated plus maze and forced swimming test in mice. It has also been

revealed that these extracts showed a significant antioxidant activity and no

signs of toxicity or death up to a dose of 2000 mg/kg, these results suggest

that the seed extracts of lady's finger. Possess antioxidant, anti stress, and

nootropic activities which promisingly support the medicinal values of lady’s

finger as a vegetable. (Doreddula, 2014)

Potential Use of Oyster Shell Waste in the Composition of Construction

Composites: A Review

The oyster shell is a residue rich in calcium carbonate, which can be

reused as a raw material for creating building materials. For this reason, many

researchers focused on the incorporation of oyster shell in the composition of

composites, as it is a means of contributing to the economic sustainability by

reducing the presence of pollution caused by aquaculture waste in the

environment, thus increasing the value chain of the construction sector and

reducing its carbon footprint. This paper intends to systematize the scientific

production related to oyster shell-based composites in construction, carrying

out a search using the Scopus tool and a systematic review based on the

PRISMA statement. The results show that research on the incorporation of

oyster shell into cementitious mortar mixtures, with a focus on its use in

concrete, dominates existing scientific research. There is a lack of studies on

the incorporation of the oyster shell that address its application as an

aggregate or binder in the composition of coating and laying mortars. Most

existing research is from Asia, and there is a lack of research in some parts of

Europe. In the Americas, Africa and Oceania, no existing studies were found.

Despite the growing understanding of the importance of sustainability and

economic issues related to products used in the blue circular economy sector,

there are still few studies that consider the incorporation of waste or

by-products of aquaculture. Future investigations that cover these practical

and contextual gaps can contribute to the better use of oyster shell waste and

its insertion in the blue circular economy (Torres, 2023).

Relationships between Queen Conch Larval Biology and Recruitment,

Connectivity, and Fishery Management

The queen conch (Aliger gigas) is an important fishery resource species

in the Caribbean region, increasingly threatened by overharvest. The species'

life history is characterized by density-dependent reproduction, benthic egg

masses, and a 2-4-week planktotrophic period with potential for long-distance

dispersal. This review focuses on veliger growth, development, and

settlement, especially as related to environmental variables, and larval

duration and behavior relevant to transport. More than 3000 plankton

collections for queen conch made throughout the region show that most

veligers occur in the upper water column during the warmest season, with

evidence for a positive association between abundance of late-stage veligers

and subsequent abundance of juveniles in nursery grounds. Biophysical

models based upon the best information on veliger duration and vertical

movement yield predictions on population connectivity and can be used in

design for networks of marine protected areas. While the earliest genetic

studies suggested an open panmictic Caribbean population, more recent

molecular genetic results show that populations exhibit a continuum-like

structure, and self-recruitment occurs in certain localities. The current state of

knowledge of early life history and connectivity for queen conch is discussed

in terms of recruitment potential, climate change, and management for

sustainable fisheries (stoner, 2023).

Process and Formulation Optimization of Vacuum Fried Aninikad

(Plicate conch)

Fried snacks emerged as one of the enticing, delightful snacks of

modern consumers. Vacuum frying emerged as a new frying technology that

improves the quality and retains the nutrients of food products. The concept

of applying this to marine produce, specifically the "aninikad" could be a

unique product since mostly vacuum frying is applied to fruits and

vegetables. This study aims to utilize, optimize and evaluate the sensory

acceptability of the vacuum fried aninikad. Response Surface Methodology

using Central Composite Design (CCD) of Experiment was employed in

order to optimize the product. The three identified factors, namely pre-cooking

time (5, 10, and 15 min.), soy sauce (5, 10, and 15 %) and sugar (20, 30

and 40%), were used in the experiment. Determination of the sensory

acceptability was the parameter used for optimization. The optimum condition

of the product that would give acceptability of ≥7.1 was 9.7 min. pre-cooking

time, 9% soy sauce level and 30.2% sugar level. Hence, the results in this

study prove that a health snack can be produced and will add value to

aninikad (Aguanza, 2022).

Mangrove oyster farming: Prospects as supplementary livelihood for a

Ghanaian fishing community

The declining marine stocks likely due to climate change and other

environmental stressors have severe effects on livelihoods of small scale

coastal fishing communities. As a result, development of supplementary

livelihood has become relevant in recent times as a way of reducing hunger

and creating employment. There have been preliminary studies conducted to

identify viable aquaculture techniques that will increase the yield (growth rate

and size) of mangrove oysters as a means of supplementary livelihood for

coastal communities in Ghana. As part of an extended study, this paper

assesses the status of oyster fishery in a coastal community and the growth of

oysters in the nearby lagoon. We assessed the socio-economic

characteristics of the fishery, sizes sold at the market and the appropriate

period required to possibly culture the species. An interview guide and oysters

purchased from the local market were used to gather information on the
status of the fishery while coconut cultches were used to collect oyster spat

for culture in the Nakwa lagoon. Thee results indicated that 60 % of the

respondents harvested the oyster for sale, consumption or both. The oysters

were available all year round although the sizes and quantity harvested were

reported to be reducing in recent times. The sizes of oysters found in the

market could be obtained within seven months of culture and with better meat

condition. Based on the fast growth rate, high demand and interest of

respondents to culture the species, the potential for formal oyster farming at

Nakwa is high with the possibility of extending lessons learnt to other coastal

communities in Ghana (Asare, 2019).

Waste from Discarded Oyster Shells: A Promising Raw Material for Lime
Industry in The Philippines

The demand for agricultural lime is high, considering its various uses

from agricultural production to processing. This study determines the lime

potential of three shellfishes, namely: Crassostrea iredalei (Oyster shell),

Decatopecten radula (Pecten shell), and Anodontia edentula (Mangrove clam

shell) as a promising raw material for lime industry in the Philippines and can

be used as alternatives for commercially produced agricultural lime. (Hene,

2023)
 Related Literature

Organic fertilizers are applied to plants and improve soil fertility, plant

vigor, quality and yield of the plant. Organic based fertilizers are used both in

organic and conventional agriculture. In the present study, the vegetable crop

Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench was taken, and the growth studies were

carried out. The germination study carried out using different organic

fertilizers. The dry weight of the plants showed significant increase in plants

treated with VAM fungus. The number of leaves was more in plants treated

with combination of fertilizers. On the 75th day, the number of the fruits

formed was more in plants treated with vegetable compost which shows that,

the compost starts degrading, releases the nutrients and it is being absorbed

by the plant and results in increase in the growth and yield of the vegetable

crop (Gayathri, 2019).

Okra or Lady’s finger, botanically known as Abelmoschus esculentus

(L.) Moench, is a tropical and sub-tropical indigenous vegetable crop

commonly grown for its fibrous, slimy, and nutritious fruits and consumed by

all classes of population. It has also several medicinal and economic values.

Despite its many uses and potential value, its importance is underestimated,

under-utilized, and considered a minor crop and little attention was paid to its

improvement. The study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different

planting densities and mulching materials on the growth and yield of okra

grown in slightly sloping area in the marginal uplands in Sta. Rita, Samar,

Philippines. A split-plot experiment was set up with planting density as main

plot and the different mulching materials as the sub-plot which were:
unmatched or bare soil, rice straw, rice hull, hagonoy and plastic mulch.

Planting density did not significantly affect the growth and yield of okra.

Regardless of the mulching materials used, mulched plants were taller and

yielded higher compared to unmatched plants. Moreover, the use of plastic

mulch resulted to the highest total fruit yield. The results indicate the potential

of mulching in increasing yield and thus profitability of okra production under

marginal upland conditions. (Gonzaga, 2017)

Lady's finger (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is a popular vegetable crop

with good nutritional significance, along with certain therapeutic values, which

makes it a potential candidate in the use of a variety of nutraceuticals.

Different parts of the lady's finger fruit (mucilage, seed, and pods) contain

certain important bioactive components, which confer its medicinal properties.

The phytochemicals of okra have been studied for their potential therapeutic

activities on various chronic diseases, such as type-2 diabetes,

cardiovascular, and digestive diseases, as well as the antifatigue effect, liver

detoxification, antibacterial, and chemo-preventive activities. Moreover, okra

mucilage has been widely used in medicinal applications such as a plasma

replacement or blood volume expanders. Overall, lady's finger is an easily

available, low-cost vegetable crop with various nutritional values and potential

health benefits. (Ashraf, 2021)

Okra is generally grown in locations where the crop will receive full

sunlight throughout the day. Soil types for okra production can vary, with

loams and sandy loams preferred, but even heavier soils can produce well if

the soil drains well enough to prevent water-logging. If soil drainage is less
than optimal, then okra will benefit from the use of free-standing raised soil

beds. These beds can be formed by the use of implements such as a disk

harrow adjusted to pull soil to the center or, if available, a commercial

bed-shaper. The latter is the best option if drip irrigation and plastic mulch are

to be utilized. Combination bed-shapers and mulch layers are used to form a

bed and install drip tube and mulch in a single operation. If the producer does

not want the expense of plastic mulch, then the bed-shaper can be used

without installing mulch. As with most vegetable crops, okra will produce

higher yields if supplemental irrigation is available during drought conditions.

Root knot nematodes can be a problem and producers should rotate okra

fields to non-host crop species, such as annual grasses or cereal grains, to

reduce the chances of nematode populations increasing. Okra belongs to a

select group of crops that will produce during extended periods of stressful

conditions and is a consistent producer even with hot and dry conditions.

Expected yields for okra vary, but can range between 10,000 to 12,000

pounds per acre under good growing conditions in Oklahoma.

(Brandenberger, 2019)

The vitamin C in okra helps support healthy immune function. Lady’s

finger is also rich in vitamin K, which helps your body clot blood. Okra is

typically grown in regions with warm temperatures and a long growing

season. It thrives in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. Lady’s finger is a

nutritious vegetable. It is low in calories and a good source of vitamins and

minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, folate, and potassium. It

also contains dietary fiber. The production of okra involves sowing okra seeds
in well-drained, fertile, managing weed and pest control, and harvesting when

the pods are 2 to 4 inches long (Sachdev, 2022).

Lady’s Fingers is a nutritious plant that benefits pregnant women, heart

health, and blood sugar control, and may have anticancer properties. The

seed of the said plant is known worldwide as a source of protein. Based on

the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) in the Republic of Ghana, the

okra plant is preferably planted in tropical countries like the countries of Asia

as the plant itself prefers warm moist soils. (Mamaril et.al., 2013)

Okra or Lady’s finger, botanically known as (L.) Moench, is a tropical

and sub-tropical indigenous vegetable crop commonly grown for its fibrous,

slimy, and nutritious fruits and consumed by all classes of population. It has

also several medicinal and economic values. Despite its many uses and

potential value, its importance is underestimated, under-utilized, and

considered a minor crop and little attention was paid to its improvement.

(Gonzaga, 2017)

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is an economically important

vegetable crop grown in tropical and subtropical parts of the world. Okra is a

multipurpose crop due to its various uses of the fresh leaves, buds, flowers,

pods, stems and seeds. Okra immature fruits, which are consumed as

vegetables, can be used in salads, soups and stews, fresh or dried, fried or

boiled. It offers mucilaginous consistency after cooking. Often the extract

obtained from the fruit is added to different recipes like stews and sauces to

increase the consistency. Okra mucilage has medicinal applications when

used as a plasma replacement or blood volume expander. The mucilage of

okra binds cholesterol and bile acid carrying toxins dumped into it by the liver.
Okra seeds are a potential source of oil, with concentrations varying from 20%

to 40%, which consists of linoleic acid up to 47.4%. Okra seed oil is also a rich

source of linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid essential for human

nutrition. Okra has been called " a perfect villager's vegetable " because of its

robust nature, dietary fiber, and distinct seed protein balance of both lysine

and tryptophan amino acids (Gemede, 2015)

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is a vegetable belonging to the family

of Malvaceae. Okra is a repository of valuable nutrients. It is less of a staple

than diet food. Okra is consumed in immature stage to provide health

benefits such as prevention of constipation because pods contain

mucilaginous substances and high dietary fiber which serve as natural

laxatives. It has high antioxidants, which fights against diseases in human

body such as stroke and cardiac-related diseases. Okra also prevents

cataract and helps with good vision. Again, it is used by diabetics to stabilize

their blood sugar by slowing absorption from the intestine. Okra is also

rich in protein, carbohydrates, folic acid, vitamins, potassium, calcium, iron

and glycan (Asamani, 2023)

The oyster shell is a residue rich in calcium carbonate, which can be

reused as a raw material for creating building materials. For this reason, many

researchers focused on the incorporation of oyster shell in the composition of

composites, as it is a means of contributing to the economic sustainability by

reducing the presence of pollution caused by aquaculture waste in the

environment, thus increasing the value chain of the construction sector and

reducing its carbon footprint. (Bellei, 2023)

 Oyster shell waste is one of the agricultural by-products has causes

environmental problems as the production of oyster increases year by year.

Oyster shell is a-product of oyster production, accounting for about 90% of the

total oyster mass, contributing to a large amount of waste. According to the

data supplied by commercial fisheries companies, the production of oyster

shells in the last five years has been 300,000 tons, which will increase

environmental contamination issues. Oyster shell waste is generated in

dumpsites, disposed of on ground or transferred to the ocean, resulting in

immense environmental pollution. Oyster shells are non-biodegradable, it

wastes can take time to degrade due to their properties, resulting in a rise in

dumping areas and causing soil and water contamination. The waste also can

attract pests when buried in the soil because of the strong odor. When oyster

shell waste is disposed in the water, it tends to cause soiling and infects

aquatic species. The disposal of approximately hundred thousand tons of

oyster shells annually has led to microbial rottenness and extremely toxic

gases such as Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) and Ammonia (NH3) have been

produced when thus causing unhealthy impact on nearby community.

(Ruslan, 2022)

Oyster shells can be used in your garden that you might not be aware

of. You can use oyster shells in a variety of creative ways, including grinding

them into a fine powder for soil amendment, turning them into decorative

mulch, and even making oyster shell tea with nutrients. Oyster shells,

composed primarily of calcium carbonate, exhibit remarkable characteristics

that make them ideal for gardening purposes. Calcium carbonate, in the form

of aragonite, is the main component of oyster shells, accounting for

approximately 95% of their composition. This high calcium content is what

makes oyster shells a sought-after additive for enriching the soil.(Gutierrez,

2023)

Oysters are saltwater bivalves with high nutritional and medicinal value

that are consumed widely around the world. As well as being highly nutritious,

oysters are a low-calorie, low-cholesterol source of protein and an exceptional

source of zinc, which strengthens the immune system; and a rich source of

bioactive compounds, which comprise various biological activities. The

various biological compounds present in an oyster shell, and their chemical

constituents, have applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and medical

industries. Bioactive peptides and proteins obtained from the whole, mantle,

and gill tissues of oysters exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, antihypertensive,

anticancer, antifatigue, anticoagulant, and anti-wrinkle effects, as well as

enhance osteoblast differentiation (Ulagesan et.al, 2022).

The application of waste oyster shell in agriculture is of extensive

concern due to its benefits on improving yields and inhibiting cadmium

accumulation in edible parts of crops. However, the underlying mechanisms

responsible for oyster shell powder that decreases Cd accumulation in crops

remain poorly understood. (Yang et.al., 2023)

Conch refers to several species of marine gastropods with medium or

large spired and ornate shells. Typical species include the queen conch

(Aliger gigas) of the family Strombidae. These are also referred to as “true

conches”, however. members of Melongenidae and Fasciolariidae contain

species that are commonly referred to as conches as well. Their shells are
commonly used as instruments, decorations, or for other cultural purposes

while their meat is the inspiration for famous dishes in many cultures,

particularly in the Caribbean (Laidlaw, 2020)

Conch provides a broad range of nutritional benefits. It has significant

protein, magnesium, selenium, and vitamin B12 content. Conch had the

highest magnesium, iron, and manganese levels out of all seafood products

analyzed and it has a substantial protein density with 26.3 grams of protein for

only 165 calories ( Joseph, 2022)

Calcium, in the form of calcium pectate, is crucial for plant cell wall

formation and activation. When deficient, new tissue like root tips, leaves, and

shoot tips may have improper cell wall formation, causing visual distortion.

Calcium also activates enzymes and coordinates cellular activities. Plants rely

on transpiration, where roots absorb soil solution, transport it to new growth,

and use the calcium. Slowing transpiration, such as high humidity or cold

temperatures, can induce calcium deficiency, even if calcium levels are

normal in the growing medium.(Buechel,2023)

Shells have components that help plants grow and become healthy,

and it's not just a waste product, it can also help make fertilizer for our crops.

All plants need certain essential nutrients to grow properly but the Big Three

or the Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium are the most important essential

nutrients for plant growth. Nitrogen is a building block for growing new stems

and leaves and it is also a necessary part of chlorophyll, which makes the

leaves green and helps during photosynthesis. Phosphorus (P) is helps in the

development of flowers, fruits, and root systems of plants. Potassium (K)

keeps roots healthy and also aids flowers and fruits. (Germane, 2020)
Health Benefits

Okra is low in calories but packed full of nutrients. The vitamin C in

okra helps support healthy immune function. Okra is also rich in vitamin K,

which helps your body clot blood. Antioxidants are natural compounds that

help your body fight off molecules called free radicals that can damage cells.

Free radicals are most well known for causing oxidation damage, which can

eventually lead to cancer. Okra contains antioxidants called polyphenols,

including vitamins A and C. It also contains a protein called lectin which may

inhibit cancer cell growth in humans. Studies using concentrated compounds

from okra showed they inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells by up to

63%. Further research is needed for definitive proof of okra’s cancer-blocking

properties. Polyphenols decrease your risk of heart problems and stroke by

preventing blood clots and reducing free radical damage. The antioxidants in

okra may also benefit your brain by reducing brain inflammation. Mucilage a

thick, gel-like substance found in okra—can bind with cholesterol during

digestion so it is passed from the body. An eight-week study conducted on

mice showed lower blood cholesterol levels after they were fed a high-fat diet

containing okra powder. (Sachdev, 2022)

 CHAPTER lll

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

The researchers will employ an experimental research design, due to

the nature of the variables being studied. The experiment concludes with the

data collected in theory and tests the experiment's effectiveness.

Conceptual Framework

Figure 1. The Conceptual Framework of the Study

This figure shows that the independent variable is the fermented

crushed oyster shell and crushed plicate conch, because you are adjusting it

to see how it affects the dependent variable, which is the length of a lady's

fingers. The slow release of nutrients during shell decomposition may offer a

sustained nutrient source for plant growth. However, the impact of shells on

soil properties and lady's finger growth is contingent on factors such as shell

size, decomposition rate, and existing soil conditions. In an experiment, the

independent variable is what you control or change and the dependent

variable is what you measure as a result of those changes.

Locale of the Study

This study will be conducted at the New City Hall of Island Garden City

of Samal located in Sitio Ma’ag, Barangay Peñaplata. Researchers choose

this place to conduct the experiment because it has a big and a safe place

area for plantation that is more secured to conduct the experiment.

Figure 2. The locale of the study

Subject of the Study

The subject of the study in this research is evaluating how the

utilization of oyster shells and plicate conch shells influences the growth and

yield of lady's finger plants. The study is likely investigating the potential

impact of these shell materials on soil properties, nutrient levels, and overall

plant health, thereby affecting the growth and yield outcomes of Lady's finger

crops.

Research Materials

The needed materials for experimentation are 150 seeds of lady's

finger, 100g of Mangrove Oyster shells 100g of plicate conch shells, 2 liters of

rice water, 2 empty bottles, Mortar and Pestle.

Sampling Method

The researchers will use random block sampling technique for data

gathering, using the random block sampling, several sample techniques are

applied separately and independently for distinct blocks, yet all plots inside a

block are exposed to the same randomization scheme. This will assist the

researchers in locating the data in randomly selected pictures.

 According to Department of Agriculture (Agriculture, 2020) the standard

distance per block30 cm and 60 cm for rows. The calendar method applicable

in planting the okra is suited for all season.

Data Gathering Procedures

Phase 1 – Collection of Materials

The researchers will collect 100g of Plicate Conch and Mangrove

Oyster shell and collecting lady’s finger seeds by extracting them from the

pods.

Phase 2 – Preparation of fermentation

All the materials needed such as Mortar and pestle, spoons, spray

bottles. The ingredients such as 1liter of rice water.

A. The plicate conch and mangrove oyster shell will both be

crushed. Then the plicate conch and mangrove oyster shell will be

crushed into smaller pieces until they become a powder.

B. On the 1 liter bottle with the 100 grams powder of Plicate Conch

inside and the other 1 liter bottle with the 100 grams powder of

Mangrove Oyster Shell inside, the Plicate Conch and the rice water are

put together, and same as with the Mangrove Oyster Shell. Mixed it

using a stirring spoon.

C. After stirring, transfer the mixture to a bottle, labeled with the

date. It will be fermented for 6-8 days.

Phase 3 – Seedling Production

The researchers will plant the 3 lady’s finger seeds on 5 designated

plots which are composed of 1 controlled, 1 commercial, and 3 experimental

groups. The seeds are expected to germinate in the last week of April at the

agricultural land area near the New City Hall of the Island Garden City of

Samal. The slowing process will be conducted during the month of February

and March.

Phase 4 - Land Preparation

Prepare the area thoroughly. Plow and harrow the field 2-3 times until

the soil is well pulverized. For small areas, make plots 5 cm wide for wide for

row/plot planting. In bigger areas, set furrows at 5 cm apart for single row

planting. This can be adopted during dry seasons. Use raised bed method

(20-30 cm high, 1 cm wide) during the wet season. Regularly checking plants

for pests and diseases is crucial for maintaining healthy gardens. The primary

disease management strategy is to prevent them by providing optimal growth

conditions, such as the right season, temperature, spacing, nutrients, water,

and disease-resistant varieties. Crop rotation and weed management also

help ward off diseases by planting different crop families in a space each year.
Phase 5 – Crop Establishment

a. Sowing. Gather the seeds of lady’s finger, then plant the seeds ¼

inch deep in a seedling tray. Keep the soil moist but not

waterlogged and keep them in a warm spot (around 70-80 degrees

Fahrenheit). Lady's finger seeds should sprout within 7-10 days.

Once they do, move them to a sunny spot and continue to keep the

soil moist

b. Mulching. Use mulch to control weeds and promote better growth.

Rice hull, rice straw or plastic may be used. In case of the latter,

make beds 1 meter wide and incorporate the required manure and

fertilizer. Spread the mulch, covering the sides with soil. Make holes

100cm x 50 cm apart.

c. Transplanting. Apply basically 10g of complete fertilizer (1-1-1) in

each hole. This will maintain the good texture and condition of the

soil aside from supplementing its fertility. Transplant during cool

weather or in the afternoon when the sun is not too hot to avoid

seedling shock. Transplant at a spacing of 50 cm between hills.

Phase 6: Application of Fermentation

The fermented Mangrove Oyster shell and Crushed Plicate Conch will

be transferred in a separate spray bottle. It will be sprayed 1-2 times on the

plants in each 3 experimental groups every 5 days in a week. The

researchers will apply the treatments on the leaves after three weeks of

planting.

Phase 7: Measurement

Data will be gathered to figure out everyday the difference in

measurements. In addition, gather data will begin the day after the seedlings

are transplanted in the area and will keep going until harvesting. The

researchers will measure the height of the lady's finger plant with a meter stick

and the diameter of the stem with a tape measure to track its growth. In

addition, the researchers will count the total amount of leaves on each plant to

help them distinguish the species. Further, when assessing the lady's finger

yield, the researchers will utilize a weighing scale to identify which group has

the most impact on the plant. In addition, the researchers will count the

amount of lady's finger fruits per plant to identify

The ratio of the treatments will be the following:

T1. Control Group: 100% water (1 liter)

T2. Commercial Group: 100% urea (100g)
T3. Experimental Group 1: 1 liter of foliar Mangrove Oyster shells
T4. Experimental Group 2: 1 liter of foliar Plicate Conch shells
T5. Experimental Group 3: 1 liter of foliar Mixed Plicate Conch shells and
Oyster shells
Statistical Analysis

These data, when combined with statistical techniques, can be put to

good use and greatly aid researchers in reaching a conclusion. The study will

make use of descriptive statistics like frequency, standard deviation, and

mean.to measure the height of the plant, numbers of leaves and the diameter

of the stem. Since descriptive statistics offer fundamental details about the

variables in a data set, they may be helpful in this investigation. Furthermore,

the study will employ the analysis of variance (ANOVA) group’s differences by

comparing the means of each group and includes spreading out the variance

into diverse sources.

Biosafety Consideration

In this research study, is ensuring that genetically modified or transgenic

plants are contained to prevent their escape into the environment. This can be

achieved by growing them in controlled environments such as greenhouses or

by implementing physical barriers, such as isolation distances or pollination

control techniques, to prevent gene flow to wild relatives. Another important

consideration is minimizing any potential harm to non-target organisms, such

as beneficial insects or other plants, that may come into contact with the

genetically modified plants. This can be achieved by conducting thorough risk

assessments to identify potential ecological risks and implementing

appropriate management strategies to mitigate these risks.

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