Author: Xin Yi Choong, Man Kee Lam, Yee Ho Chai, Revathi Raviadaran, Inn Shi Tan, Jibrail Kansedo, Peck Loo Kiew, Adrian Chun Minh Loy
Citation: Choong, Xin Yi, et al. "Microalgae-based biofertilizers: A review of nutrient composition and their effects on plant growth and soil health." Biomass and Bioenergy 213 (2026): 109358.
Abstract:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0961953426004332
Conventional agriculture, driven by population growth and increasing food demands, has long depended on chemical fertilizers, contributing to significant environmental degradation. In response, microalgae-derived biofertilizers have emerged as a sustainable alternative, offering unique advantages such as adaptability to diverse environments, efficient nutrient cycling, and the ability to enhance soil health, structure, and water retention. Rich in essential nutrients and growth-promoting compounds, microalgae not only improve plant productivity but also reduce reliance on synthetic inputs. This review comprehensively examines recent advances in microalgae-based biofertilizers, focusing on their nutrient composition, the impact of cultivation conditions on biochemical properties, and their effects on plant growth and soil quality. It also emphasizes sustainability in the production of microalgae biofertilizers, highlighting strategies such as low-cost cultivation using wastewater, carbon dioxide sequestration and integration into biorefinery systems to minimize resource consumption and environmental impact. Additionally, it highlights key challenges, including scalability and cost-effectiveness, and explores potential solutions through integrated biorefinery and bioremediation approaches. By synthesizing current knowledge, this review aims to provide insights into the potential of microalgae-based agrotechnology to foster sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.
Author: Xin Yi Choong, Man Kee Lam, Yee Ho Chai, Revathi Raviadaran, Inn Shi Tan, Jibrail Kansedo, Peck Loo Kiew, Adrian Chun Minh Loy
Citation: Choong, Xin Yi, et al. "Microalgae-based biofertilizers: A review of nutrient composition and their effects on plant growth and soil health." Biomass and Bioenergy 213 (2026): 109358.
Abstract:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0961953426004332
Conventional agriculture, driven by population growth and increasing food demands, has long depended on chemical fertilizers, contributing to significant environmental degradation. In response, microalgae-derived biofertilizers have emerged as a sustainable alternative, offering unique advantages such as adaptability to diverse environments, efficient nutrient cycling, and the ability to enhance soil health, structure, and water retention. Rich in essential nutrients and growth-promoting compounds, microalgae not only improve plant productivity but also reduce reliance on synthetic inputs. This review comprehensively examines recent advances in microalgae-based biofertilizers, focusing on their nutrient composition, the impact of cultivation conditions on biochemical properties, and their effects on plant growth and soil quality. It also emphasizes sustainability in the production of microalgae biofertilizers, highlighting strategies such as low-cost cultivation using wastewater, carbon dioxide sequestration and integration into biorefinery systems to minimize resource consumption and environmental impact. Additionally, it highlights key challenges, including scalability and cost-effectiveness, and explores potential solutions through integrated biorefinery and bioremediation approaches. By synthesizing current knowledge, this review aims to provide insights into the potential of microalgae-based agrotechnology to foster sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.