Abisolo Connection presents perspectives on the use of macroalgae

The use of macroalgae as a source of biofertilizers will be the topic of the lecture "New Perspectives for Obtaining and Using Macroalgae," which will be given by Professor Marciel Stadnik of the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) on October 22, at 15 p.m., during the Abisolo Connection in Campinas, São Paulo. Stadnik is a member of the event's Scientific Coordination Committee and the creator of the Biostimulants Symposium, an academic initiative that inspired and gave rise to the current Abisolo Biofertilizer Symposium, now a national benchmark in the sector.

In the presentation, Stadnik will provide a comprehensive overview of the agricultural potential of macroalgae, covering species widely used globally, such as Ascophyllum nodosum, typical of the Northern Hemisphere, and those cultivated in Brazil, such as Kappaphycus alvarezii, found in states such as Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and the Northeast region.

One of the points that should spark the most public interest is the role of macroalgae extracts in increasing productivity and, above all, mitigating abiotic stresses such as drought, excessive heat, or frost. "In situations of water stress, excessive heat, or cold, extracts help significantly reduce yield losses, making them an extremely valuable tool for agriculture," explains the professor.

Another relevant aspect Stadnik will address concerns the extraction processes for bioactive compounds present in macroalgae. According to him, the processing method directly influences agronomic results, and there is still significant room for scientific advancement in this area. "There is a lack of consolidated scientific work, although applicability is growing rapidly. Bringing academia and industry closer together is essential to validate uses, develop more effective methodologies, and expand the knowledge base in this segment," he emphasizes.

In addition to speaking, Stadnik is a member of the Scientific Committee and contributes to the programming of the III Biofertilizer Symposium, part of the Conexão Abisolo program. The Symposium will feature the presentation of academic papers and will award the best studies in two categories: Academic Merit and Innovation Merit, each with R$5 awarded to the lead author. Registration is open until September 14, 2025, and can be completed exclusively through the official website (conexaoabisolo.abisolo.com.br/simpósio).

Researchers, industry professionals, and undergraduate and graduate students are eligible to participate, with papers addressing topics such as macroalgae-based biofertilizers, amino acids, humic substances, plant extracts, innovative products, and organic-based fertilizers. Each participant may submit up to two papers for evaluation, which will be conducted by a Scientific Committee. Approved papers will also be published in the Book of Abstracts, scheduled for release in November 2025.