Morphological and Biomass Assessment of Musa paradisiaca Plantation Wastes at Different Growth Stages

Abstract

The Musa paradisiaca plant undergoes various morphological changes throughout its lifecycle. The study of the morphological characteristics of banana plant parts proved to be a guide for comparing the biomass of different parts. During each growth stage, one of these parts is generated as waste; hence, the details of morphological changes and biomass generated at each stage can be of importance. During the life cycle of the banana plant, some parts of the plant become waste. These waste parts can be utilized and may contribute to the circular economy of the banana plantation and the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. According to the morphological evaluation, it is evident that the banana pseudostem and leaf foliage are the major waste remnants that pose a disposal problem and can be substantially utilized for sustainable utilization of plantation wastes. From a detailed comparative evaluation of the pseudostem, it is evident that there is variation in the thickness and weight of each leafsheath layer as well as the meristem. This indicated a possible phytochemical variation; hence, understanding the discrete ways of utilization of leafsheath layers and meristem is needed. Banana roots and the inflorescence account for the least waste biomass generated from the plantation. The root waste remaining after harvesting can be rolled over with the soil is an easy way of disposal. The inflorescence is edible and hence consumed as a vegetable; only a small portion goes to waste. The detailed study of the utilization prospects of pseudostem should be focused on, due to its highest waste biomass generated, followed by the utilizable outcomes of leaves.