Does seaweed provide protection against plants diseases and the climate change impacts on agricultural production?

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Researchers of researchers from the University of Waikato and Plant & Food Research in New Zealand are investigating the possibilities of the local seaweed species for protection against plants diseases as well as agricultural impacts of climate change. Dr. Marie Magnusson, Dr Christopher Glasson along with Dr Joel Vanneste are at the at the forefront of this study, focused on the advantages of the sugars that come from seaweeds. The project has been awarded the $11.4 million Endeavour Fund grant from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment in recognition of the potential benefits it could bring to New Zealand’s main industry.

The team of researchers has discovered the polysaccharides present in New Zealand seaweed act as Elicitors within kiwifruit. They trigger the defense mechanism of plants against pathogens such as Psa which have previously caused severe economic harm on the kiwifruit business. Elicitors like vaccinations for humans, allow the plants to become more resistant to environmental stressors and diseases including drought, temperature and extremes.

Dr Vanneste emphasized the importance in elicitors that can be used to provide insurance for farmers, providing tranquility without having to limit other methods of techniques for controlling. According to Dr. Magnusson of developing seaweed-based products that can provide the lowest impact alternative to synthetic chemicals for crop protection. This is in line with the concerns of industry regarding the health and environmental impacts.

The effectiveness of these items is being tested using fruit, kiwi and tomatoes. The results will be evaluated with plans to extend into other types of crops. This project will also be integrated with Maori-led research in order to ensure that the production of bioproducts using Taonga species is in line with guidelines for best practices. Zespri International Limited embraced the potential value of this study for the kiwifruit industry as well as beyond, highlighting the significance of low-impact product for crop protection.

Source: The University of Waikato

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Source: The Plantations International Agroforestry Group of Companies