Summary
This laboratory study examined how natural extracts from two seaweed species and one terrestrial plant modulate physiological and biochemical responses in mung bean seedlings, finding pronounced concentration- and solvent-dependent effects. Aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts generally promoted germination and secondary metabolism, whilst 10% ethanolic extracts strongly inhibited germination, reducing germination energy to as low as 8%. The findings suggest that optimisation of solvent type and concentration is critical for developing effective biostimulant formulations from plant and algal sources.
Regional applicability
The study is conducted under controlled laboratory conditions using standardised mung bean germination tests, which may translate to biostimulant development applicable to United Kingdom horticulture and crop production; however, field validation under UK growing conditions would be needed to confirm agronomic benefit and establish practical dosing regimens for UK farm use.
Key measures
Germination capacity and energy; early growth parameters; chlorophyll content; chlorophyll a fluorescence; total phenolic and flavonoid content; antioxidant activity; solvent type and extract concentration
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated how extracts from seaweeds (Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus vesiculosus) and terrestrial plant (Sideritis scardica), prepared with different solvents, affect germination, growth, chlorophyll content, secondary metabolites (phenolics and flavonoids), and antioxidant activity in mung bean seedlings. Extract composition and concentration determined whether they acted as biostimulants or growth inhibitors.
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