Summary
This study investigates Furcellaria lumbricalis, a red algae native to the Baltic Sea, as a sustainable biostimulant source produced via anaerobic fermentation. Laboratory experiments with basil demonstrated that 3% digestate concentrations substantially enhanced plant growth, with green mass increases between 52.7% and 85.4%, whilst economic analysis indicated potential profitability for Latvian agriculture. The research suggests biostimulant application could support regional green economy development, though field validation, molecular mechanism elucidation, and standardised production protocols remain outstanding.
UK applicability
The findings are potentially relevant to UK horticulture, particularly in coastal regions where macroalgae harvesting and processing infrastructure might be developed. However, the study was conducted under controlled laboratory conditions and focused on Baltic-specific algae species; field trials in UK climatic conditions and investigation of alternative UK algae sources would be necessary to establish practical applicability to UK farming.
Key measures
Basil green mass increase (percentage); digestate concentration levels; gross profit potential for different crops; availability of algae biomass in the Baltic Sea region
Outcomes reported
The study measured the growth-promoting effects of Furcellaria lumbricalis digestate on basil plants under controlled laboratory conditions, and assessed the economic potential for application in Latvian agriculture. Green mass increases of 52.7% to 85.4% were reported at 3% digestate concentrations.
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