A High-Throughput Screening Platform to Evaluate Biostimulant Activity of Five Microalgae in Arabidopsis thaliana

Summary

This paper describes a high-throughput screening platform for evaluating microalgal biostimulants using Arabidopsis thaliana across its full life cycle. The study tested five microalgal species under optimal and drought conditions using three application methods and a range of concentrations, revealing that biostimulant efficacy is strongly dependent on both concentration and application route, with species-specific patterns of activity. Limnospira platensis and Isochrysis galbana showed broad efficacy, whilst Dunaliella salina and Microchloropsis gaditana primarily enhanced drought tolerance, and Chlorella vulgaris acted mainly under optimal conditions; highest concentrations inhibited germination and root development, suggesting bioactive compound toxicity.

Regional applicability

This is a controlled laboratory study using a model plant species to develop screening methodology. Findings would require validation in field crops and UK soil conditions before informing agricultural practice; however, the standardised screening approach may be of methodological interest to UK agricultural research institutions evaluating novel biostimulant products.

Key measures

Germination rates, root elongation, plant growth traits, drought tolerance, bolting and flowering timing, response to three application methods (soil amendment, irrigation, foliar spray) at concentrations of 0.01–0.5 g/L under optimal and drought stress conditions

Outcomes reported

The study assessed biostimulant efficacy of five microalgal species on Arabidopsis thaliana growth and drought tolerance across different application methods and concentrations. Findings identified species-specific responses, with irrigation-based applications generally enhancing drought tolerance but delaying reproductive development, and high concentrations causing toxicity.

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