Phycochemistry for bioactive compounds in agriculture
Harnessing microalgae-bacteria consortia as renewable sources of bioactive compounds to enhance crop yield and soil health without mineral fertilizers.
Overview
This innovative approach leverages microalgae-bacteria consortia as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds to improve agricultural productivity. This method offers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional mineral fertilizers, enhancing crop yields and soil microbiology. By utilizing natural biological processes, this technology aims to revolutionize agricultural practices, reducing dependency on chemical inputs and promoting sustainable farming.
Technical specifications
The technology revolves around isolating and cultivating specific microalgae-bacteria consortia that thrive without mineral fertilizers. These consortia demonstrate high biomass yield and produce bioactive compounds beneficial for plant growth and soil health. The process includes:
- Isolation and Characterization: Selecting the most productive consortia based on biomass yield and bioactive compound production.
- Scaling: Cultivating selected consortia in open ponds without mineral fertilizers.
- Bioactive Compounds: Utilizing metabolites identified through mass spectrometry to enhance plant growth and soil recovery.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology has been validated at lab scale and is progressing towards larger-scale application. The next steps involve detailed characterization and isolation of bioactive compounds, with planned scaling in open ponds. Partnerships are sought for mass spectrometry support and further development.
About Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica
Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica (TEC) is a public, STEM‑oriented university with a multi‑campus presence across Cartago, San José, Alajuela, and San Carlos, combining applied research with technology extension. Through its Centro de Vinculación, TEC connects companies and public agencies with faculty and research units for contract problem‑solving, customized training, and long‑term partnerships. Technology transfer and continuing education centers embedded on the campuses provide access to specialized laboratories and training, enabling rapid engagement with industry partners; international collaboration infrastructure includes K‑Lab in San Carlos developed with South Korea’s NIPA. Research is supported by national science and innovation agencies and by competitive international programs, including EU Erasmus+ collaborations. A dedicated technology transfer office advances IP management, licensing, and entrepreneurship.
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