Rice Fertilization from Posidonia Waste: Sustainable Approach for Rice Cultivation
Professor Borja Fernández Gómez, from the University of Alicante, is currently leading a research project aimed at mitigating saline stress in rice cultivation. This project is being carried out in collaboration with the 'Plant Gene Regulation' laboratory at the António Xavier Institute of Technology and Biology (ITQB NOVA), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal.
The research group led by Professor Fernández Gómez is exploring the use of bioactive compounds from Posidonia, a type of seagrass commonly found in the Mediterranean, to improve rice's tolerance to saline stress. This strategy aligns with European fertilizer regulations (Regulation EU 2019/1009) promoting the use of sustainable and environmentally friendly products.
ITQB NOVA is one of the reference centres in molecular biology in Europe, making it an ideal partner for this international collaboration. The stay is backed by the Generalitat through grants for the stays of doctoral research personnel in research centres located outside the Valencian Community, 2025 call.
The research is in response to abiotic stress caused by soil salinity, which is increasing due to higher temperatures, decreasing rainfall, and water scarcity in the Mediterranean region. This research could have significant implications for the sustainability of rice cultivation in the region.
Interestingly, there are no search results identifying a specific university research group converting Posidonia oceanica waste products into sustainable fertilizers to reduce salt stress in rice cultivation. The University of Alicante's commitment to scientific solutions to the great environmental and agricultural challenges of the 21st century is further reinforced by this initiative.
Posidonia can potentially be part of the solutions to these environmental and agricultural challenges if kept safe from pollution, uncontrolled tourism, boat mooring, and climate change. This research could help ensure the continued health of Posidonia populations while providing a sustainable solution for rice cultivation.
The 'Plant Gene Regulation' group at ITQB NOVA studies how plants, especially rice, respond to factors such as salinity, drought, or cold. Their expertise in plant gene regulation will undoubtedly contribute to the success of this collaborative project.
This research is being reported by EFE / ECOticias.com, highlighting its importance in the scientific community. The collaboration between the University of Alicante and ITQB NOVA is a testament to the power of international cooperation in addressing global challenges.
