Biopreparations in Modern Agriculture: Revolution from the Laboratory
Agriculture is on the verge of an ecological revolution, and its main driving forces are so small that they can only be seen under a microscope.
Return on investment with biopreparations
Longer shelf life for berries with biogel
Main types of biopreparations
Resistance development in pests
What Are Biopreparations and Why Are They Important?
Modern agriculture faces a complex choice: how to increase productivity to feed the growing global population while simultaneously reducing environmental impact? The answer to this question may lie in the world of microorganisms.
Definition
Biopreparations are products based on living microorganisms, their metabolites, or natural components, designed for plant protection, nutrition improvement, and growth stimulation 6 .
Key Differences
They fundamentally differ from chemical analogs in their mechanism of action and environmental impact, offering a sustainable approach to agricultural challenges.
Advantages Over Traditional Agrochemicals
Economic Efficiency
Return on investment can reach 30 times, significantly higher than chemical agents 2
Diversity of Biopreparations: Solution Palette for Agronomists
Modern science offers various types of biopreparations, each solving specific tasks in agriculture 6 .
Biofertilizers
Improve soil fertility and nutrient absorption by plants
Biofungicides
Protect plants from fungal diseases
Bioinsecticides
Used for pest control
Biostimulants
Promote yield increase, enhance plant immunity
Biodegraders
Accelerate decomposition of plant residues in soil
Effectiveness of Biopreparations on Different Crops 6
| Crop Type | Applied Biopreparations | Expected Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Cereal Crops | Bacterial preparations, biofungicides | Nitrogen fixation, root growth stimulation, protection against root rot |
| Vegetable Crops | Bioinsecticides, biofertilizers | Protection against aphids, thrips, Colorado potato beetle, improved taste qualities |
| Fruit and Berry Crops | Biofungicides, biostimulants | Protection against scab, gray mold, formation of large juicy fruits |
| Industrial Crops | Biofertilizers with trace elements, bacterial preparations | Optimal nutrition, improved phosphorus and potassium absorption |
In Focus: Experiment to Extend Berry Shelf Life
One of the pressing problems in agriculture remains the reduction of product losses during storage and transportation.
Research Background and Objectives
In 2024, at Novosibirsk State Technical University (NSTU NETI) within the project "New Engineering Solutions and Artificial Intelligence for MedBioProm," a unique biogel based on the natural component chitosan was developed 1 .
The research goal was the experimental verification of effectiveness of this biogel in extending the shelf life of fresh berries, particularly mulberries, known for their delicacy during transportation.
Methodology
Biogel Preparation
Development of a composition based on chitosan capable of forming a protective film on berry surfaces.
Berry Treatment
Application of biogel on freshly harvested mulberries.
Control Group
Selection of a batch of untreated berries for comparison.
Observation and Parameter Recording
Regular assessment of berry condition in both groups with recording of visual changes, firmness, and signs of spoilage.
Results and Analysis 1
Application of biogel showed impressive results: treated mulberries maintained freshness up to three days instead of the usual one day.
Treated with Biogel
Days of freshness preservation
Firmness maintained for 72 hours
No significant visual changes for 3 days
High suitability for transportation
Untreated Berries (Control)
Day of freshness preservation
Firmness significantly reduced after 24 hours
Loss of presentation after 24 hours
Very low suitability for transportation
Significance: This experiment demonstrates a fundamentally new approach to solving traditional agricultural problems - through the application of biotechnology instead of chemical preservatives.
Scientist in the Field: Toolkit for Working with Biopreparations
Modern research in the field of biopreparations requires specialized equipment and methodologies.
Research Infrastructure in Russia
In Novosibirsk State Agrarian University (NSAU) with the support of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science and under the "Priority 2030" program, a Research Center for Biological Plant Protection was created, uniting five laboratories 1 .
According to NSAU Rector Evgeny Rudoy, such an interdisciplinary approach allows solving tasks of any complexity - from fundamental research to the implementation of biopreparations in practice 1 .
Russian Realities and Development Prospects
Russia is actively developing infrastructure for the development and implementation of biopreparations.
Current Developments
The center is already developing bioinsecticides and polyfunctional biological preparations based on fungi and bacteria for plant protection against insect pests. Biopreparations, particularly against the Colorado potato beetle, have been created and implemented in production based on the laboratories, and work is underway to create microbiological fertilizers 1 .
Practical Experience
As Alexander Zakhlebaev, chief agronomist of the organic farm "M2," notes: "If there is nitrogen, there will be results for the next crop, and then you can work with biopreparations. If there is no flag leaf, no nutrition, then working with biopreparations is useless" 5 .
Future Directions
As noted by Ivan Dubovsky, head of the Research Center for Biological Plant Protection at NSAU, it is important that theoretical knowledge immediately finds practical application, and students see how their research affects the work of the agro-industrial complex 1 .
Biologicalization of Agriculture
This is the inevitable path of agriculture development in the 21st century, driven by both environmental requirements and economic feasibility. And biopreparations are becoming a key tool on this path.
Conclusion: The Future Belongs to Biotechnology
Biopreparations in modern agriculture are not just an alternative to chemical agents, but a fundamentally different approach to farming. They allow transitioning from a strategy of fighting nature to a strategy of cooperating with it, using the natural mechanisms of living soil and plants.