Microalgae as biofertilizer in modern agriculture

Abstract

Microalgae are a kind of widespread photosynthetic organisms including eukaryotic green algae and prokaryotic blue algae. They have great potential to be used as biological resources in the fields of medicine, health products, feed, fuel and so on. These fascinating organisms can also be used in modern agriculture for their ability to enrich soil nutrients and enhance utilization of macro and micronutrients. In addition to improving soil fertility and quality, microalgae can also produce plant growth hormones, polysaccharides, antimicrobial compounds and other metabolites to promote plant growth. This section focuses on the effects of cyanobacteria and green algae as biofertilizers on improving fertility and quality of soil and promoting plant growth. Recent research developments and future prospects of their application in modern agriculture are also discussed.