Raw Materials for Biofertilizer Production

Biofertilizers, as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical fertilizers, play a vital role in sustainable agriculture. In 2026, the production of biofertilizers relies on three core categories of raw materials: biological agents (beneficial microorganisms), nutrient-rich growth media, and carrier materials that maintain microbial viability. These raw materials work synergistically to ensure the activity of beneficial microorganisms from production to application, enabling them to promote plant growth and improve soil health. A clear understanding of these raw materials is essential for grasping the production logic and application value of biofertilizers. Beneficial microorganisms, also known as biological inoculants, are the core “active” raw materials of biofertilizers, directly determining their functional effects. The main types include nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which can convert atmospheric nitrogen into plant-available forms. This group includes rhizobia (specifically for leguminous plants), azotobacter (free-living in soil), and azospirillum. Phosphorus- and potassium-solubilizing microorganisms are another key category, such as Bacillus megaterium, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and fungi like Aspergillus niger, which can decompose insoluble phosphorus and potassium in soil into absorbable nutrients. Plant growth-promoting fungi, mainly Trichoderma and mycorrhizal fungi, enhance plant stress resistance and nutrient uptake efficiency. Additionally, cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) like Anabaena and Nostoc are widely used in rice cultivation due to their nitrogen-fixing capacity and adaptability to paddy environments. Fermentation and growth media are essential for propagating beneficial microorganisms to high concentrations during the production process, providing necessary nutrients and energy. Carbon sources are the primary energy supply for microbial growth, with common raw materials including molasses, sucrose, glucose, and starch, which are easily metabolized by most microorganisms. Nitrogen sources and nutrients support microbial cell synthesis, such as yeast extract, peptone, ammonium salts, and corn steep liquor, which are rich in amino acids and vitamins. Agricultural by-products like rice bran, wheat bran, and various grain husks are also widely used as components of growth media. These by-products not only reduce production costs but also realize resource recycling, aligning with the concept of circular agriculture.

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