Development of Organic Fertilizers Based on Cyanobacteria in the Laboratories of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University

In recent years, particular attention has been paid to the development of sustainable agriculture in the agro-industrial sector. The primary goal of this approach is to preserve soil fertility, maintain ecosystem balance, and improve the safety of agricultural products. Compared to traditional methods, the excessive use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, deep soil tillage, and over-irrigation lead to environmental pollution, increased greenhouse gas emissions, soil structure degradation, and disruption of microbiological balance.

Currently, agriculture faces a deficiency of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and iron. This has led to the application of approximately 200 million tons of chemical fertilizers. Consequently, soils are becoming compacted, acidic, and less fertile, while the balance of soil microbiota is disrupted, which in turn increases the prevalence of soil-borne diseases. In addition, the production of synthetic fertilizers requires significant investments in fossil fuel resources, creating economic challenges and causing environmental harm.

These issues highlight the importance of using biodegradable fertilizers that cause minimal harm to the soil. Sustainable agriculture should prioritize methods that enhance nutrient cycling in the soil, reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. Currently, popular organic fertilizers are based on livestock or poultry manure, compost, and plant residues. However, their main drawbacks are the complexity and length of production, low levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and the instability of nutrient content.

In this context, biotechnological methods, particularly the use of microorganisms as soil inoculants, are considered a promising tool for improving soil quality. Soil microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining nutrient balance, carbon sequestration, and overall soil health. Microalgae and cyanobacteria are especially important, as they are primary producers forming the base of the ecosystem’s food chain and can adapt to dry, semi-arid, and swampy environments.

Cyanobacteria are an inexpensive, renewable, and sustainable bioresource that can be used as soil amendments or plant growth stimulants. These microorganisms have a unique ability to synthesize biologically active compounds, including polysaccharides, proteins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, lipids, and other metabolites, utilizing atmospheric CO2. However, the potential of cyanobacteria to increase crop productivity is not yet fully explored. Research conducted in the biotechnological laboratories of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU) aims to address this issue.

The project focuses on developing the scientific and methodological basis for using cyanobacterial strains to produce organic fertilizers and plant growth stimulants. Its novelty lies in creating a technology that allows increasing crop yields and soil fertility through the application of cyanobacterial cultures in the soil. The main goal is to enhance soil fertility, stimulate plant growth, and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers.

Research is conducted in several directions. First, obtaining pure axenic cultures of cyanobacteria and identifying them. Second, analyzing biomass productivity of the strains. Third, studying the synthesis of biologically active compounds, including phytohormones, polysaccharides, and vitamins. Fourth, determining nitrogen-fixation capabilities. Fifth, identifying optimal growth conditions in laboratory and field experiments. Sixth, developing technology for producing organic fertilizers. Seventh, assessing the effect on plant growth. Eighth, analyzing the impact on soil microbiota. Finally, the economic and ecological efficiency is evaluated, with plans for implementation and dissemination of the results.

Application of cyanobacterial biofertilizers improves the physicochemical properties of soil, increases nutrient levels in degraded lands, and naturally provides plants with the nitrogen they need. In addition to nitrogen fixation, cyanobacteria produce biologically active metabolites such as phytohormones, polysaccharides, amino acids, and phenolic compounds, which stimulate plant growth. Polysaccharides enhance soil structure, aid in nutrient transport, and protect plants from biotic and abiotic stress factors. They play an important role in forming soil aggregates, binding heavy metals and salts, thereby improving plant growth on saline and polluted soils.

Cyanobacteria can synthesize various phytohormones. Auxins promote root development, cytokinins stimulate shoot growth and bud formation, and gibberellins regulate flowering and fruiting. Nitrogen-fixing strains are a renewable resource, and their use can reduce chemical fertilizer application while providing nutrients to plants in a soil-friendly way.

International experience shows that countries such as the USA, Japan, China, and India have advanced technologies for producing microorganism-based organic fertilizers. In Kazakhstan, this industry is still under development, but using strains isolated from local soils could be highly effective.

Research conducted by KazNU scientists aims to enhance crop productivity, restore soil microbiomes, and ensure ecological sustainability through the development of cyanobacterial biofertilizers. The results are both scientifically and practically significant, contributing to the development of Kazakhstan’s agro-industrial complex and increasing its international recognition.

Within this project, the scientific results are being published internationally, with practical applications considered. KazNU scientists apply their scientific expertise, experience, and innovative approach to improve organic fertilizer production technologies. These studies support the implementation of sustainable development principles in agriculture, environmental protection, and the introduction of new biotechnological solutions.

Overall, the research conducted by scientists at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University establishes the scientific and methodological foundation for developing cyanobacteria-based organic fertilizers, contributing to ecologically clean and efficient agricultural development in Kazakhstan.