Microparticles with bacteria and yeasts to increase drought and salinity tolerance in lettuce
O BacterYeas2HORT is a research project developing innovative biological solutions to increase the tolerance of horticultural crops to drought and salinity, while reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers. The project focuses on combining beneficial microorganisms with sustainable microencapsulation technologies.
The Challenge
Horticulture is facing growing challenges:
- Rising temperatures
- Water scarcity
- Soil salinization
- Excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers
Cultures such as lettuce (Lactuca sativa), which is highly sensitive to salinity and demanding of water, are particularly vulnerable.
At the same time, over-fertilization can lead to the accumulation of nitrates in the leaves, raising environmental and food safety concerns.
Sustainable solutions are needed that increase crop resilience without compromising food quality.
The Solution
BacterYeas2HORT proposes an innovative approach:
1. Selection of growth-promoting microorganisms
Beneficial bacteria and yeasts with the ability to:
- Improve nutrient absorption
- Increasing the efficiency of water use
- Increasing tolerance to drought and salinity
2. Microencapsulation in natural biopolymers
The microorganisms are encapsulated in biodegradable microparticles composed of: alginate and cellulose
This technology makes it possible:
- Controlled release of microorganisms
- Greater protection against adverse environmental conditions
- Better water retention in the soil
3. Application on model crop (lettuce)
Greenhouse tests evaluate:
- Plant growth
- Physiological response to stress
- Quality and safety of the end product
Innovation
The project introduces a pioneering innovation:
- Development of a dual microbial transport system based on alginate and cellulose, a technology still little explored in agriculture.
- Integration of growth-promoting yeasts, an emerging group in the biofertilizer sector.
Simultaneous evaluation of:
- Agronomic performance
- Biochemical indicators of stress
- Physical and chemical properties of lettuce
Expected impact
BacterYeas2HORT has a direct impact on four key dimensions:
Project objectives
BacterYeas2HORT is structured in four main stages:
- Selection and formulation of microbial consortia
- Development of microparticles loaded with microorganisms
- Evaluation of drought and salinity tolerance in the greenhouse
- Analysis of the physical and chemical quality of lettuce
Team and Partnerships
- Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto - Project leader
- GreenUPorto
- InnovPlantProtect
Financing
Project submitted to the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) under the 2024 Call for Exploratory Research Projects.
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