Identification of fungal and bacterial isolates suitable for incorporation into fertilizer compost

• Grant number: 25/02875-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Microbiology - Applied Microbiology
• Principal Investigator: Cauê Ribeiro de Oliveira
• Grantee: Maria Eduarda Benetton Rodrigues Uliana
• Host Institution: Embrapa Instrumentação Agropecuária. Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária (EMBRAPA). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Company: Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento (Brasil). Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária (EMBRAPA). Embrapa Instrumentação Agropecuária
• Associated research grant: 20/12210-3 - Development of technological alternatives for the use of ETA sludge as raw material for the production of controlled release fertilizers, AP.PITE

Abstract

The objective of this project will be to define a fungal and/or bacterial isolate suitable for incorporation into the solid formulations produced. Microorganisms with potential agronomic use (confirmed or expected) as biological control agents, plant growth promoters and phosphate mineral solubilizers that meet the expectations of this proposal will be identified. Priority will be given to fungal and bacterial isolates already evaluated and present in the Embrapa Meio Ambiente collection, which can control soil pathogens (such as Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Cubense; Ralstonia solanacearum and Sclerotium rolfsii), nematodes and other soil pests. Routes for the large-scale production (multiplication) of active suspensions of microorganisms that are compatible with encapsulation and incorporation into the formulations will also be evaluated. The multiplication of microorganisms by solid and liquid phase fermentation techniques will be tested to assess the comparative advantages of each technique. However, in addition, the two production routes must also be analyzed based on the suitability of the final product (extract) to the routes/methodologies for protecting the microorganisms. Different growth substrates may be tested, including agro-industrial waste (sugarcane bagasse, glycerol, etc.) to optimize production costs. The experience of the Agroenergy Laboratory at Embrapa Instrumentation, led by Dr. Cristiane Farinas, will be essential at this stage: the team has extensive experience in the multiplication process of Aspergillus niger and Trichoderma harzianium, which will serve as a working model for subsequent stages. These stages will count on the collaboration of the research group led by Dr. Wagner Bettiol from Embrapa Meio Ambiente.