Microbial solutions for carbon reduction and agricultural sustainability 

In pursuit of net-zero carbon emissions, countries worldwide are focusing on sustainable agricultural technologies. A research team led by Professor Tzu-Pi Huang from the Department of Plant Pathology at National Chung Hsing University has successfully developed microbial formulations based on Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, and Bacillus coagulans. These formulations, applicable in plant health, livestock feed, and aquaculture, not only enhance production efficiency but also reduce environmental pollution, offering a novel solution for agricultural sustainability. 

The microbial formulations, now commercially licensed and mass-produced, have received positive feedback from farmers across various agricultural sectors. In aquaculture, these microbial products improve the fullness of fish meat, increase meat yield, enhance feed efficiency, and effectively reduce Vibrio populations in fish intestines. Additionally, they enrich the diversity of algae in aquaculture water and degrade chemical pesticides and fungicides. 

Core technology for mass production of microbial formulations established 

Using advanced fermentation pilot plants and large-scale production equipment at National Chung Hsing University’s Department of Plant Pathology and the Agricultural Technology Research Institute, the team has developed core technologies for the mass production of microbial formulations. Initially designed for plant health, these single-strain microbial products have been successfully expanded for use in livestock, aquaculture, pesticide degradation, and improving crop resilience. 

The team’s achievements in microbial formulation development include: 

• Creating various liquid, powder, and granule spray formulations for plant health and feed additives. 
• Demonstrating the efficacy of microbial products as plant protection agents and feed additives, improving poultry and livestock rearing environments, and enhancing the water quality for fish and shrimp. 
• Completing necessary safety evaluations for acute oral and respiratory toxicity/pathogenicity for microbial pesticide registration in Taiwan. 
• Recognized by the Ministry of Science and Technology’s Global Affairs and Science Development Center (GASE) as a highlight of Taiwanese research. 

Promising Future for Microbial Formulations in Sustainable Agriculture 

Professor Tzu-Pi Huang emphasized that microbial formulations are a crucial technology for sustainable agricultural development. Traditional agriculture relies heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which lead to environmental pollution and food safety issues. Microbial formulations, as an alternative to chemical inputs, not only promote crop growth but also improve animal health and soil and water quality, offering triple benefits to agricultural production. Their safe, non-toxic, and versatile applications present immense commercial opportunities. The team is committed to continuous research and development of microbial formulations, expanding their applications, and promoting their adoption both domestically and internationally to contribute to sustainable agriculture. 

Resource (mandarin): 

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