Cyanobacteria-based bioactive formulation for nitrogen fixation and nematode suppression in crops
A bio-based agricultural formulation combining bioactive metabolites from cyanobacteria strains (Anabaena, Nostoc, Spirulina) to enhance nitrogen fixation and suppress plant-parasitic nematodes in maize and soybean crops, reducing reliance on harmful chemical inputs.
Overview
This research proposes a greener agricultural solution that combines bioactive metabolites extracted from cyanobacteria to deliver dual benefits: enhanced nitrogen fixation and suppression of plant-parasitic nematodes in major crops such as maize and soybeans. The formulation leverages metabolites including anatoxin-a, nostocine, cytokinin, indole acetic acid (IAA), and spirulan, sourced from Anabaena spp., Nostoc spp., and Spirulina spp. By reducing nematode egg mass production and increasing rhizobial nodule formation, the approach aims to improve soil and plant health while decreasing dependence on synthetic agrochemicals.
Technical specifications
- Cyanobacteria strains: Anabaena spp., Nostoc spp., and Spirulina spp., selected for their complementary metabolite profiles
- Cultivation system: Lab-scale airlift photobioreactor designed for high-density microalgae and cyanobacteria cultivation
- Extraction method: Ultrasonication-assisted extraction for intensified recovery of bioactive metabolites
- Target metabolites: Anatoxin-a, nostocine, cytokinin, indole acetic acid (IAA), and spirulan
- Validated extraction parameters: 35% amplitude, 20 kHz frequency, 1.3 cm probe diameter, with prior demonstration achieving 4.37 ± 0.07 g/L dry biomass density and 1.109 ± 0.01 mg/g metabolite yield
- Application mode: Soil-applied metabolite formulation assessed for impact on plant and soil health
Technology readiness level
The underlying cultivation and extraction platform has been validated at lab scale using Haematococcus pluvialis, demonstrating reproducible biomass density and metabolite recovery. The proposed work extends this proven approach to cyanobacteria strains and nematode-suppressing metabolites. Future validation will involve culturing each cyanobacteria strain individually in the airlift photobioreactor, extracting and formulating the metabolite mixture, and assessing its impact on plant and soil health over an approximately 12-month period. Funding is sought for key personnel, materials, and consumables to advance the formulation toward field readiness.
About University of Guelph
The University of Guelph is a comprehensive, mid-sized public research university in Guelph, Ontario. Industry partners engage through an on-campus research park and the Ontario Veterinary College’s teaching hospitals, which enable product evaluation and clinical translation. The university’s Arboretum and the nearby Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Guelph Research and Development Centre offer living laboratories and federal linkages that support collaborative R&D. Research is backed by competitive federal funding and strong provincial support via the Ontario Agri‑Food Innovation Alliance. The Research Innovation Office serves as the university’s technology transfer and industry liaison hub, supporting IP, licensing, and co‑funded partnerships.
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