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Explora: Environment
and Resource Application of Algae for seed priming

Figure 10. Algal priming affects the rhizosphere by stimulating beneficial microbiome interactions
Abbreviation: PGPR: Plant growth-promoting microorganisms.

and functionality of PGPR populations, reinforcing early
root development and health. In addition, algal extracts
155
contain B-complex vitamins, which enhance microbial
metabolism and promote the synthesis of plant-beneficial
metabolites, such as siderophores and phytohormones.
Overall, algal priming shapes the rhizosphere microbiome
in favor of beneficial interactions that underpin healthy
seedling emergence, robust root establishment, and
resilience against environmental challenges. 120,156

7. Algal priming as a sustainable alternative
for future agriculture
A clear pattern emerges when analyzing the diversity of algal
species used in seed priming across existing studies (Table 1). Figure 11. Graphical analysis of potential algal genera used as priming
Ulva dominates the field, cited in 16 independent reports agents
as a consistently effective biostimulant. Following closely
are Sargassum (14 reports) and Chlorella (11 reports), both Algal extracts represent a promising sustainable
demonstrating reliable improvements in seed germination, alternative for future agriculture, primarily due to their
seedling vigor, and tolerance to abiotic stresses, such as adaptability to a wide range of climatic conditions and
salinity and drought. These three genera form the core of their potential for large-scale application. Various algal
present research interest, indicating their strong potential species can be cultivated in diverse environments:
for practical agricultural applications. Ascophyllum, Padina, Spirulina thrives in hot, arid climates, while Chlorella and
and Gracilaria, each featured in six to seven studies, also other microalgae are better suited to temperate regions.
show promising biostimulant properties. Meanwhile, As such, species selection must account for local variables,
Spirulina, Kappaphycus, and Cystoseira are less frequently such as temperature, humidity, and light intensity. 123,124 The
studied but consistently display favorable effects that merit scalability of algal production is supported by established
further exploration. On the margins, species, such as Jania, cultivation methods, such as open-pond systems,
Ecklonia, Fucus, and Laurencia are underexplored but photobioreactors, and integrated aquaculture setups, all of
potentially valuable candidates. This comparative overview which have shown success in increasing biomass yield for
not only highlights the most widely studied algal candidates agricultural use. However, climate-specific challenges do
but also offers practical guidance for selecting species best exist: Colder regions may require additional infrastructure
suited for seed priming, particularly under environmental for temperature regulation, whereas tropical areas may
stress conditions (Figure 11). contend with nutrient imbalances or photoinhibition. 25,64

Volume 2 Issue 2 (2025) 18 doi: 10.36922/EER025120025