Biocontrol & Biostimulants: Harnessing Beneficial Microbes
Chemical pesticides have long been central in farming, but they carry health risks, environmental costs, and pests eventually develop resistance. Agriculture needs safer, eco-friendly alternatives. At AgriBiotix, we meet this need with biological control agents and biostimulants – naturally occurring microbes that strengthen plants. Our main focus is on plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and other beneficial microbes isolated from Norwegian soils. These organisms both protect crops from disease and stimulate growth, forming the basis for our sustainable microbial products.
But how does it work?
Certain soil bacteria naturally help plants thrive. They colonize roots, block harmful fungi and bacteria, and at the same time improve nutrient uptake and release growth-stimulating hormones. Some strains act like living biopesticides, while others work as biofertilizers by fixing nitrogen or solubilizing phosphate. The result is healthier plants that resist stress and yield more – without heavy chemical inputs. Trials and scientific studies confirm that the right microbes can cut disease and boost yields safely and sustainably.
From discovery to solutions
At AgriBiotix, our scientists are prospecting and formulating these beneficial bacteria into practical solutions for farmers. To achieve this, we use advanced bioprospecting techniques to discover and culture new microbial strains from nature that have potent biocontrol and biostimulating effects. Once identified, each promising strain undergoes rigorous testing in our labs and greenhouses. During these trials, we assess how well it protects target crops (for instance, preventing fungal diseases in lettuce production) and how it influences plant growth and yield.
Moreover, by focusing on microbes sourced from local soil and plant environments, we tap into organisms that are well-adapted to our climate and crops. As a result, this increases the chances that they will perform reliably in real farming conditions. In addition, our research and development pipeline includes projects like developing bacterial seed treatments to shield spruce seedlings from fungal disease and using insect frass-derived microbes to stimulate plant immunity – innovative approaches that extend biocontrol to forestry and horticulture as well.
Ultimately, every solution is developed with an emphasis on safety and efficacy. Therefore, only strains that prove effective against pathogens and beneficial to plants, without ecological risk, are advanced for product development.
How is this beneficial to the farmers?
Farmers using our microbial products can reduce reliance on chemical pesticides. This means fewer residues on food, less pollution, and compliance with stricter sustainability standards. Stronger roots and improved nutrient uptake also mean higher yields and healthier crops – a win-win for productivity and sustainability.
Coming soon…
We are now in the final development stage of our first generation of biocontrol and biostimulant products. Field trials are underway to ensure reliable performance under real conditions. Together with local producers, we are fine-tuning application methods such as seed coatings, soil amendments, and foliar sprays. Soon, AgriBiotix will deliver safe, effective microbial solutions to farmers – advancing a greener and more resilient future in agriculture.
