The role of microalgae and cyanobacteria in sustainable agriculture
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59741/agraria.v23i2.714Keywords:
Biorrefinería, Bioestimulantes, Bioeconomía circular, Bioproductos, BiotecnologíaAbstract
Population growth and projections for 2050 have intensified the challenge of food production, putting great political, social and economic pressure on agricultural practices that must produce crops in increasingly eroded soils. In this context, microalgae and cyanobacteria, which are photosynthetic organisms, are a promising alternative within a circular bioeconomy model, benefiting from their versatility in producing high-value compounds for the agricultural industry. The proper selection of microalgae and cyanobacteria species for large-scale cultivation is essential, considering factors such as growth rate, biomass composition, and adaptability to environmental conditions. The biomass of microalgae and cyanobacteria is rich in proteins, polysaccharides, pigments and phytohormones, all of which have great potential in agriculture as microalgae and
cyanobacteria biostimulants. Integrating microalgae and cyanobacteria cultivation into agricultural systems contributes to a more efficient use of resources and promotes the transition towards more sustainable food production, aligned with the principles of the circular bioeconomy.
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