Biostimulants & Biopesticides

Develop algae-based biostimulants and biopesticides to boost agro-industry sustainability.

Prototype Development

We evaluate a wide range of algal biomasses, extracts, and ingredients to identify their bioactive potential through in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo trials conducted in growth chambers, greenhouse or field settings. We optimize product concentration, stabilization, application mode and frequency for maximum agricultural efficiency.

Biostimulant Performance and Stress Mitigation

We assess the biostimulant potential of algae-based products in multiple crops grown under optimal and stress conditions (e.g. nutritional and water stress). Morphological and physiological parameters, as well as productivity metrics, are measured to determine their capacity to enhance plant growth and resilience.

Biopesticide Efficacy and Disease Control

We test algae-derived formulations for biopesticide activity against phytopathogens and evaluate parameters such as growth inhibition, disease severity and progression, supporting the development of effective natural crop protection solutions and improving soil health.

The

Team

Our team includes Luísa Coelho as the leader, along with Catarina Viana and Bruno Simão. We bring expertise in the development of algae-based agricultural products, including biostimulants and biopesticides.

What we

can offer

We provide contract research and consultancy services focused on the development, evaluation and validation of algae-based prototypes for agricultural applications.

Our services include:

In Vitro Screening: Evaluation of the potential of algae-based products and formulations as biostimulants and biopesticides.
Greenhouse & Field Validation: Assessment of product efficacy under controlled and field conditions, including crop performance, plant health and product quality.
Plant Disease Identification: Detection and diagnosis of plant diseases, with particular expertise in fungal pathogens.
Experimental & Regulatory Support: Experimental design, statistical data analysis and interpretation, as well as regulatory guidance for the development and validation of agricultural products.

Cutting Edge Space

Inside Our Lab

Our laboratories are equipped to investigate the biostimulant and biopesticidal effects of various products on agricultural crops. Key facilities include phytoclimate chambers with controlled light, temperature, and humidity, as well as laminar flow cabinets, and incubation chambers. We use portable instruments, including the SPAD-502 chlorophyll meter and the LSA-2050 spectrometer, to assess the physiological status and stress level of crops by measuring chlorophyll, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm). In addition we maintain a greenhouse divided into two compartments, both equipped with semi-environmental control systems. This infrastructure enables controlled trials to assess the effects of different algal protoypes on target crops, evaluating their potential for both biostimulants and biopesticides.