Mithu Biswas
Abstract
Indian coastline is a vast repository of seaweeds including both native and alien invasive algal species. Seaweeds offer a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to inorganic fertilizers owing to their abundance in the coastal areas and proximity to the agricultural fields. Seaweed biochar and compost are gaining attention as soil amendments, restoring soil C:N ratio and soil fertility. Composting invasive seaweeds with residual wastes of sea farming, which are quite abundant in coastal areas, can promote indigenous seaweed-based technology for waste management. Well-balanced organic fertilizers are now designed by addition of vermicompost, biochar to seaweed extracts or compost. The present article highlights the potential of seaweed resources in the production of soil amendments while analyzing their extent of heavy metal accumulation.