Applications and Market of Micro-Organism-Based and Plant-Based Inputs in Brazilian Agriculture

Abstract

The use of plant-based and micro-organism-based biological inputs is a sustainable agricultural practice. It promotes a suitable and better utilization of non-renewable resources in the environment. The benefits of using micro-organisms are associated with direct and indirect mechanisms, mainly related to improvements in the absorption and availability of nutrients, resulting in a consequent impact on plant growth. The main benefits of using biochemical pesticides are the promotion of sustainability and the management of resistance to pests and diseases. Although the use of micro-organisms and botanical metabolites is a promising agricultural alternative, they are still primarily concentrated in grain crops. There is a huge opportunity to expand the plant-based and micro-organism-based biological inputs used in agriculture due to the wide range of mechanisms of action of those products. At a global level, several terminologies have been adopted to characterize biological inputs, but many terms used conflict with Brazilian legislation. This review will clarify the classes of biological inputs existing in Brazil as well as present the application and evolution of the market for microbiological and plant-based inputs.

Effect of Biostimulant, Manure Stabilizer, and Manure on Soil Physical Properties and Vegetation Status

“…While farmyard manure has a positive effect on soil fertility and consequently on plant yields, synthetic fertilizers provide large amounts of nutrients to the soil-and hence increase yields-but reduce the carbon content of the soil and do not improve soil health [4]. In terms of sustainability, it is appropriate to integrate plant-based products-such as algae or microorganism-based products-into agricultural practice [5,6]. Some companies may add value to products, e.g., stranded seaweed on beaches, thus facilitating the restoration of ecosystems.…”