Summary
This laboratory study developed a biphasic cultivation strategy for Chlorella vulgaris using magnesium sulphate as a stressor to generate biomass enriched for bio-fertilizer applications. By substituting sodium chloride with magnesium sulphate during the nitrogen-limited stationary phase, the researchers achieved a 44.8% increase in biomass whilst simultaneously enriching it with carbohydrates (42.15%) and lipids (36.24%), whilst eliminating the phytotoxic sodium residues associated with conventional salt-stress methods. The resulting sodium-free, nutrient-dense microalgal biomass is proposed as a functional bio-fertilizer feedstock that delivers both macronutrients and structural carbohydrates to soil.
Regional applicability
This is a laboratory-scale microalgae cultivation study without field validation or UK-specific testing. Transferability to United Kingdom soil application would require field trials demonstrating soil health and crop productivity benefits under UK climate and soil conditions, as well as assessment of cost-effectiveness and supply-chain feasibility at scale.
Key measures
Biomass concentration (g L⁻¹), total carbohydrate content (%), lipid fraction (%), intracellular macromolecular accumulation, magnesium and sulphate retention in biomass
Outcomes reported
The study measured biomass yield, intracellular macromolecular composition (carbohydrates and lipids), and biochemical shifts in Chlorella vulgaris following magnesium sulphate stress during stationary phase cultivation. It demonstrated that MgSO₄-induced metabolic changes can generate nutrient-enriched, sodium-free microalgal biomass suitable for soil application as a bio-fertilizer.
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