Role of Algae in Agriculture

The sustainable development of modern agriculture faces many obstacles, including biodiversity loss and environment and soil degradation. Algae possess the ability to fix carbon through photosynthesis and produce enormous biomass. The potential use of algae in bio-fertilizers, nutrient recycling, crop stimulants against abiotic stresses, and bio-control agent against plant pests provides a way forward for sustainable agriculture development. This chapter summarizes the use of algae in agriculture ranging from bio-fertilizers to crop stimulants. It is expected that the integration of algae in inputs will transform modern agriculture into a more environmentally benign and resource-efficient system, hence making it more productive.