A new study published in the Journal of Applied Phycology reports that combining microalgae with plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can substantially enhance the growth and nutritional quality of Lactuca sativa (lettuce). The research evaluated the green microalga Scenedesmus sp. SD07 and the bacterium Pantoea agglomerans CAH6—both applied individually and in combination—to determine their impact on plant performance and soil properties.
The researchers found that all treatments improved lettuce growth, but the combined microalgae + bacteria inoculation (SD07 + CAH6) produced the greatest benefits. Plants receiving this dual treatment showed:
- Up to 79% longer shoots and 66% longer roots
- 94% higher shoot fresh weight and 87% higher shoot dry weight
- Significant boosts in root biomass, reaching 238% higher root dry weight
Beyond growth improvements, the combination treatment also produced dramatic increases in nutrient uptake, including:
- Nitrogen (145% increase)
- Phosphorus (90% increase)
- Potassium (78% increase)
- Micronutrients such as magnesium, iron, and zinc (up to 91% increase)
The biochemical quality of lettuce also improved, with leaves showing higher levels of soluble sugars, proteins, and phenolic compounds, all of which contribute to plant vitality and stress tolerance.
Soil fertility reflected similar gains. Compared to the untreated control, soils treated with SD07 + CAH6 exhibited:
- 48–106% higher available nitrogen and phosphorus
- Up to 38% more available potassium
- Significant increases in key soil enzymes—acid phosphatase, urease, and β-glucosidase—which support nutrient cycling and soil health.
The study concludes that the combined microalgae–bacteria treatment offers a powerful, eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers, with strong potential for sustainable crop production. The authors note that future field trials will be essential to validate long-term agricultural applications.
Reference
Silambarasan, S., Cornejo, P., García, C. et al. Combined application of microalgae and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria improves Lactuca sativa growth. J Appl Phycol (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10811-025-03719-2
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