Author: Ashwini A. Waoo, Mariyam Fatima, Sukhendra Singh, Neha Chandra, Chandan Mahata, Joyabrata Ma, Nand Kumar Singh, Ashutosh Pandey
Citation: Waoo, Ashwini A., et al. "Exploring the potentials of algal derived bio-stimulants and biofertilizers for sustainable agriculture-a review." Bioresource Technology Reports (2026): 102605.
Abstract:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589014X26000630
The rapidly growing global population is placing increasing pressure on agricultural systems, intensifying food demand while raising serious concerns about long-term food security and environmental sustainability, particularly due to the widespread use of synthetic fertilizers. This has created an urgent need for eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives, with microalgae emerging as promising biofertilizers and biostimulants because of their rich nutrient content, growth-promoting hormones, and bioactive compounds. The objective of this review is to evaluate the agricultural potential of microalgae, assess commonly used species and application methods such as foliar sprays, soil drenching, and seed treatments, and identify existing knowledge gaps related to efficiency and scalability. The key findings indicate that microalgae enhance crop productivity by improving nutrient uptake, stimulating physiological processes, reducing abiotic stress, improving soil structure through exopolysaccharide release, and contributing to carbon sequestration, with nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria (Anabaena, Nostoc, Oscillatoria) and microalgae such as Chlorella vulgaris, Spirulina platensis, and Scenedesmus spp. being widely utilized. In conclusion, microalgae represent a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers and support resilient, high-yield farming systems aligned with circular economy principles, while future perspectives should focus on optimizing formulations, understanding species-specific responses, ensuring biosafety, evaluating long-term ecological impacts, and developing cost-effective large-scale application strategies.
Author: Ashwini A. Waoo, Mariyam Fatima, Sukhendra Singh, Neha Chandra, Chandan Mahata, Joyabrata Ma, Nand Kumar Singh, Ashutosh Pandey
Citation: Waoo, Ashwini A., et al. "Exploring the potentials of algal derived bio-stimulants and biofertilizers for sustainable agriculture-a review." Bioresource Technology Reports (2026): 102605.
Abstract:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589014X26000630
The rapidly growing global population is placing increasing pressure on agricultural systems, intensifying food demand while raising serious concerns about long-term food security and environmental sustainability, particularly due to the widespread use of synthetic fertilizers. This has created an urgent need for eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives, with microalgae emerging as promising biofertilizers and biostimulants because of their rich nutrient content, growth-promoting hormones, and bioactive compounds. The objective of this review is to evaluate the agricultural potential of microalgae, assess commonly used species and application methods such as foliar sprays, soil drenching, and seed treatments, and identify existing knowledge gaps related to efficiency and scalability. The key findings indicate that microalgae enhance crop productivity by improving nutrient uptake, stimulating physiological processes, reducing abiotic stress, improving soil structure through exopolysaccharide release, and contributing to carbon sequestration, with nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria (Anabaena, Nostoc, Oscillatoria) and microalgae such as Chlorella vulgaris, Spirulina platensis, and Scenedesmus spp. being widely utilized. In conclusion, microalgae represent a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers and support resilient, high-yield farming systems aligned with circular economy principles, while future perspectives should focus on optimizing formulations, understanding species-specific responses, ensuring biosafety, evaluating long-term ecological impacts, and developing cost-effective large-scale application strategies.