Microalgae-Based Biostimulants: Effects on Growth and Stress Resistance in Agricultural Crops

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Biotechnology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Microalgae are sustainable, rapidly growing organisms cultivated in diverse environments, including wastewater.
• They offer an eco-friendly source of bioactive compounds, serving as an alternative to resource-intensive industrial methods.
• Microalgae-derived compounds function as biostimulants, improving crop quality and stress resilience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated understanding of microalgae-based biostimulants.
• To elucidate their modes of action in plant responses to abiotic stress.
• To review successful applications and address commercialization barriers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of microalgae cultivation and bioactive compound extraction.
• Analysis of biostimulant mechanisms and plant physiological responses.
• Case study compilation of microalgae-based biostimulant trials.

Main Results:

• Microalgae species and culture conditions significantly influence bioactive compound production.
• Microalgae biostimulants enhance nutrient/water use efficiency and abiotic stress tolerance in crops.
• Successful trials demonstrate the efficacy of microalgae-based biostimulants.

Conclusions:

• Microalgae represent a promising sustainable resource for agricultural biostimulants.
• Further research and development are needed to overcome commercialization barriers.
• Integration of microalgae biostimulants can advance sustainable agricultural practices.