The Department of Biology Holds a PhD Student Seminar on “Microalgae as Biofertilizers: A Sustainable Solution for Enhancing Soil Fertility and Plant Growth”
The Department of Biology Holds a PhD Student Seminar on “Microalgae as Biofertilizers: A Sustainable Solution for Enhancing Soil Fertility and Plant Growth”
As part of the series of scientific activities organized by the Department of Biology, a seminar was held for PhD student Hadeel Mohammed Thabet, entitled “Microalgae as Biofertilizers: A Sustainable Solution for Enhancing Soil Fertility and Plant Growth.” This seminar aimed to study the vital role microalgae play as natural biofertilizers that contribute to enhancing soil fertility and stimulating plant growth in a sustainable manner, while reducing reliance on traditional chemical fertilizers. Microalgae are characterized by their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and secrete beneficial organic compounds such as amino acids, vitamins, and plant hormones (such as auxins and gibberellins). The research results also showed promising results from field studies and agricultural experiments in various countries—including Iraq, parts of the Arab world, France, and Italy—using algae such as Spirulina and Anabaena. These results demonstrated significant improvements in soil structure and increased productivity of crops such as wheat, tomatoes, and rice. The study recommended intensifying research at the local and regional levels to better understand local strains of microalgae and develop cost-effective technologies for their production and application in agricultural fields, thus contributing to achieving sustainable food security.
