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The Effect Of Photobiomodulation On Biomass

CSEF · 2026 Plant Biology (Junior Division)

Russell Krause

Overview

As the size of the world’s population and the need for food increases, new techniques must be developed to farm more efficiently. Prior research indicates that red light can be beneficial to plant growth; therefore, it was hypothesized that a combination of red light (660 nm) and near-infrared light (850 nm) would result in a minimum 20% increase in average fresh biomass. To test this, a photobiomodulation (PBM) array was targeted at Phaseolus vulgaris (Blue Lake 274 Bean) and Raphanus sativus (Cherry Belle Radish) with a total test size of 144 cells (72 control, 72 experimental). To isolate the light variable, an automated bottom-fed hydration system was engineered using a Jiffy Natural & Organic seed-starting medium to maintain consistent moisture across all cells. The experimental group received 30 minutes of daily PBM in addition to a 6-hour baseline of natural sunlight, while control groups received only sunlight. Following the 21-day trial, a seed-dissection harvest protocol was utilized to quantify results, including non-emergent specimens. Results supported the hypothesis in Phaseolus vulgaris, which demonstrated a 150% increase in average fresh biomass for successful specimens compared to the control. The hypothesis was partially supported in Raphanus sativus, which showed an 11.6% increase in average mass and a significantly more balanced root-to-shoot ratio than the control specimens. Mapping the 6x6 grids revealed an "Anaerobic Lethal Zone" in the center rows of both trays, where the combination of the moisture dome and automated hydration led to oxygen depletion and seed decomposition (Result Codes D and E). This research confirms that PBM light is a highly effective catalyst for enhancing biomass and vegetative vigor, provided that soil aeration is optimized to prevent anaerobic conditions.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2026 Plant Biology (Junior Division) · Entry J-18-16

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