Phosphorus Dynamics and Management Strategies in Alkaline Calcareous Soils of Pakistan
Challenges, Opportunities, and Future Directions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.67244/jai.bwo-researches.v4i2.a256Keywords:
Phosphorus use efficiency, Calcareous soils, Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria, Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, Integrated nutrient management, Biochar, Sustainable agriculture, PakistanAbstract
Phosphorus (P) is the second most important macronutrient limiting crop productivity in Pakistan, yet phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) remains low because of the widespread occurrence of alkaline calcareous soils. Approximately 70% of Pakistan’s cultivated soils are calcareous, characterized by high pH, calcium carbonate content, and low organic matter levels, which promote P-fixation and reduce its availability to plants. Consequently, a large proportion of applied P is converted into insoluble calcium-phosphate compounds, often limiting fertilizer recovery efficiency to less than 20%, increasing production costs, and contributing to environmental concerns associated with excessive fertilizer application. This review critically evaluates recent advances in improving phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) in alkaline calcareous soils and identifies sustainable management strategies suitable for Pakistan. Relevant peer-reviewed literature published between 2020 and 2026 was systematically analyzed, focusing on P dynamics, fertilizer management practices, soil amendments, crop responses, and emerging technologies under alkaline calcareous soil conditions. The reviewed studies demonstrate that integrated approaches involving phosphate-solubilizing bacteria, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, organic amendments, integrated nutrient management, biochar application, foliar phosphorus fertilization, precision nutrient management, and P-efficient crop cultivars can substantially enhance P availability, uptake, and crop productivity compared with conventional fertilization practices. Despite these advances, important knowledge gaps remain regarding long-term field validation, economic viability, site-specific recommendations, and large-scale adoption across diverse farming systems. Overall, the available evidence indicates that integrated biological and agronomic P management strategies represent the most promising pathway for improving PUE, sustaining soil fertility, reducing dependence on mineral fertilizers, and enhancing agricultural productivity in Pakistan. Strengthened investments in research, extension services, and farmer-oriented P-efficient technologies are essential for achieving sustainable nutrient management and national food security.
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