Application of algae for enhanced plant growth and food productivity

Abstract

Ensuring our survival primarily hinges on nourishment, as it provides the energy essential for various metabolic functions within our bodies. In the current scenario, adopting sustainable practices is imperative to satisfy our demand for both quantity and quality of food. This approach facilitates meeting our dietary needs and promotes an eco-friendly, pollution-free environment. The implementation of algae involves the utilization of biofertilizers, which augment the nutrient content of the soil, leading to elevated crop productivity. Algae can be used as biofertilizers, which are reservoirs for nutrients, and blue-green algae (BGA) can fix atmospheric nitrogen in specialized heterocyst cells and play a vital role in plant growth and stimulation. Microalgae used as biofertilizers include Acutodesmus dimorphus, Spirulina platensis, Chlorella vulgaris, Oscillatoria angustissima, Scenedesmus dimorphus, Anabaena azolla, and Nostoc sp. This can help to boost the plant growth, enhance soil fertility, and even help to improve the soil's physical and chemical properties, maintain the soil's temperature, and regulate aeration. The review focuses on an in-depth exploration of the implementation of algae as biofertilizers, specifically BGA, emphasizing their profound impact on soil ecosystems and sustainable agricultural practices. Ultimately, the review highlights and promotes the importance of various algae as a solution to raising environmental issues caused by excessive agricultural fertilizers and resulting agricultural pollution.

Funding

DBT-Pan IIT Centre for Bioenergy,(Grant number BT/PR 15650/AAQ/3/815/2016)