Compositions of algae extracts

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a composition comprising an extract of algae. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an agricultural composition comprising a concentrated extract of algae, a preservative, and optionally a diluent. The present disclosure also relates to a method of producing the algae extract and uses of the compositions described herein.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a composition comprising an algae extract. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an agricultural composition comprising a concentrated algae extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent. The present disclosure also relates to a method for producing the algae extract and uses of the compositions described herein. Background Art

[0002] Due to the increasing demand for food and plant-based products, increasing yields has become a major goal in the agricultural community. Traditionally, growers have used NPK fertilizers to achieve this goal. For some time, several issues have emerged related to synthetic and chemical fertilizers, such as runoff, leaching, soil degradation, and a decrease in the soil microbiome. Consequently, there is a need for sustainable practices, such as the use of biofertilizers, soil conditioners, and biostimulants, particularly those derived from natural sources.

[0003] Algae play an important role in agriculture, where they are used as biofertilizers and soil stabilizers. Fertilizers and plant growth regulators (PGRs) based on algae, such as seaweed (marine algae), are well known and have been produced and used for decades. Algae-based fertilizers and soil conditioners contain algae extracts, such as seaweed extracts, which are rich in bioactive ingredients, plant stimulants, minerals, proteins, and other compounds beneficial to plant growth. Robust methods for producing such extracts, so that their functional characteristics are retained, if not enhanced, are crucial. Furthermore, as products of natural and biological origin, stability, storage, logistics, and functional feasibility remain challenges for algae extracts and products containing them.

[0004] EP0538091 teaches a composition derived from marine algae obtained by a process comprising the following steps:

[0005] a) alkaline hydrolysis of at least one brown algae in the presence of a reducing agent at a temperature between 50° C. and 100° C. for a period between 4 hours and 8 hours;

[0006] b) neutralizing the hydrolyzate obtained in this way with a strong acid until a pH between 6 and 8 is obtained;

[0007] c) filtration;

[0008] d) optionally, subjecting the permeate obtained at the end of step c) to diafiltration or electrodialysis; and

[0009] e) optionally reducing the permeate obtained at the end of step c) or the retentate obtained at the end of step d) to its powder.

[0010] However, due to the alkaline hydrolysis of the algae under thermal conditions in the presence of reducing agents, some compounds of the intracellular fluid of the algae are not preserved, in particular polysaccharides, lipids, proteins and polyphenols, which reduces the biostimulatory properties of the composition obtained with the above method.

[0011] FR3025699 teaches a concentrated algae extract characterized in that it has a dry matter percentage between 6% and 100%, and a method for preparing the extract. The method comprises the following steps:

[0012] -Crush the algae until the cells burst;

[0013] - homogenizing ground algae in an aqueous solution;

[0014] - Removal of alginate and cellulose by flocculation and filtration;

[0015] - Possibility of adjusting the pH of the filtrate;

[0016] - concentrating the filtrate to reach a dry matter percentage of between 6% and 100%, preferably between 9% and 70%, more preferably between 12% and 50%.

[0017] WO2021069866A1 discloses a seaweed extract containing approximately 18% to 36% dry matter and a method for producing the extract. The method comprises the following steps: a. feeding an evaporator heat exchanger with an initial algae extract containing 3% to 8% dry matter; and b. passing steam through the heat exchanger to produce an algae extract having approximately 18% to 36% dry matter.

[0018] WO2018075943 teaches a method of regulating plant growth comprising applying to a plant an amount of a composition comprising an amount of an Ascophyllum composition effective to detectably regulate at least one aspect of plant growth, at least one health characteristic of the plant, or both. These aspects may be selected from increased root growth, increased total plant biomass, improved resistance to salt stress, improved resistance to temperature stress, and improved resistance to chlorosis. The disclosure states that "In some embodiments, the macroalgae composition (such as Ascophyllum material (e.g., an Ascophyllum extract forming part or all of the active ingredient portion of the composition)) comprises 50% or less by volume of the entire composition. In some embodiments, the active ingredient component or extract may comprise 40% or less by volume of the composition. In some embodiments, the active ingredient component or extract may comprise 30% or less by volume of the composition. In some embodiments, the active ingredient component or extract may comprise 20% or less by volume of the composition."

[0019] However, there is a continuing need in the art for compositions comprising concentrated, effective, stable and easy-to-use algae extracts. Furthermore, another problem with liquid and concentrated algae extract compositions is their degradation and short shelf life due to the presence of large amounts of organic content.

[0020] Despite years of knowledge regarding algae-based products and their applications, there remains a need for additional ways to modulate plant growth and / or health. To meet this need, stable, bioactive, and functionally viable algae-based products are essential. Robust and optimized methods and biomarker concentrations are also needed to characterize the quality of concentrated extracts. However, prior art methods for preparing, characterizing, and using compositions derived from algae (such as seaweed) are often ineffective or limited in terms of their stability, suitability for concentration, and ability to influence plant growth and / or health characteristics. Furthermore, there remains a need for algae-based extract compositions that can be applied at low doses to produce higher yields, growth, and stress tolerance in plants. There is a pressing need in the field for compositions with concentrated algae extracts that are both effective and have a longer shelf life.

[0021] The present disclosure is intended to provide compositions and methods that are significantly different from such compositions known in the prior art and provide new and effective ways to modulate plant health and / or growth characteristics. The present disclosure is intended to provide a composition comprising an algae extract, wherein the composition is stable, enriched with bioactive substances and nutrients, and is functionally viable. The present disclosure is intended to provide a method for preparing a concentrated algae extract that is stable and functionally effective in affecting yield, plant growth and / or health characteristics. The inventors of the present disclosure herein aim to provide an algae-based agricultural composition that benefits plants in terms of yield, growth and stress tolerance even at lower doses. The present disclosure is also intended to provide a way to characterize algae extracts by quantitative biomarkers. Summary of the Invention

[0022] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a composition comprising a concentrated algal extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent; wherein the concentrated algal extract is present in an amount ranging from about 50% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the preservative is present in an amount ranging from 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0023] One aspect of the present disclosure also provides methods of making the compositions described herein.

[0024] In one aspect, the concentrated algal extract is characterized by the presence of any one or more biomarkers selected from the group consisting of:

[0025] a) mannitol present in an amount ranging from about 1.5% w / w to about 7% w / w of the total weight of the extract;

[0026] b) fucoidan present in an amount ranging from about 0.4% w / w to about 1.5% w / w of the total weight of the extract;

[0027] c) polyphenols present in an amount ranging from about 0.2% w / w to about 5% w / w of the total weight of the extract;

[0028] d) glycine betaine present in an amount ranging from about 0.0001% w / w to about 0.005% w / w of the total weight of the extract; and

[0029] e) laminin present in an amount ranging from about 0.01% w / w to about 0.05% w / w of the total weight of the extract.

[0030] In one aspect, the concentrated algae extract is an acidic extract having a pH range between 2 and 4, wherein an acid is used to acidify the extract; wherein the acid is selected from the group consisting of a weak acid, a mild acid, and a strong acid; more preferably, the acid is a weak acid or a mild acid.

[0031] In one aspect of the present invention, the weak or mild acid is selected from the group consisting of organic acids, oxalic acid, sulfurous acid, phosphoric acid, hydrogen sulfurous ion, nitrous acid, hydrofluoric acid, formic acid, benzoic acid, acetic acid, formic acid, citric acid, acetic acid, tartaric acid, ascorbic acid, lactic acid, uric acid, malic acid, succinic acid, propionic acid, acrylic acid, glyceric acid, carbonic acid, glycolic acid, glyoxylic acid, water, conjugates of weak bases, hydrocyanic acid, and combinations thereof. In one aspect of the present invention, the organic acid is characterized by a carboxyl (-COOH) functional group, wherein the number of carbon atoms in the organic acid is from C1 to C 26 .

[0032] In one aspect, the concentrated algae extract is prepared by a method comprising the steps of:

[0033] i) crushing algal cells to cause cell lysis;

[0034] ii) homogenizing the lysed algal cells in an aqueous solution;

[0035] iii) adding an acid to the aqueous solution containing the homogenized lysed algal cells;

[0036] iv) removal of alginate and cellulose by acidic flocculation and filtration; and

[0037] v) concentrating the filtrate to obtain a concentrated algae extract having a pH range between 2 and 4.

[0038] In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is an extract of seaweed. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is an extract of brown algae. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is an extract of algae selected from the group consisting of Ascophyllum, Fucus, Laminaria, Ecklonia, Sargassum, Lemna, Kappaphycus, Gracilaria, Macrocystis, Turbinaria, Durvilea, and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is an extract of an algae selected from the group consisting of Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus vesiculosus, Laminaria digitata, Laminaria hyperborea, Laminaria saccharina, Ecklonia maxima, Sargassum spp., and mixtures thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is an extract of Ascophyllum nodosum.

[0039] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of growth stimulation in a target plant, wherein the method comprises applying a composition described herein to the target plant, locus, or seed.

[0040] One aspect of the present disclosure also provides a method for determining the quality of the composition of the present disclosure, the method comprising:

[0041] i) obtaining a sample of the composition; and

[0042] ii) measuring the pH and the concentration of any one or more biomarkers selected from the group consisting of mannitol, glycine betaine, fucoidan, polyphenols, and laminin of a sample of the composition;

[0043] Wherein the pH of a sample of the composition is detected to be within the range of 2 to 4 and wherein the concentration of any one or more of the biomarkers selected from mannitol, glycine betaine, fucoidan, polyphenols, and laminin is detected to be within the range as provided in Table 2, the composition is considered stable and good. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] For purposes of the following detailed description, it should be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations and step sequences, unless expressly indicated to the contrary. Furthermore, except in any operating examples or where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing, for example, quantities of materials / ingredients used in the specification are to be understood in all instances as being modified by the term "about."

[0045] Unless otherwise indicated, all exact values provided herein represent corresponding approximate values (e.g., all exact exemplary values provided with respect to a particular factor or measurement can be considered to also provide the corresponding approximate measurement, modified by "about" where appropriate). As used herein, the term "about" refers to a measurable value, such as a parameter, amount, duration, etc., and is intended to include variations of + / - 15% or less, specifically variations of + / - 10% or less, more specifically variations of + / - 5% or less, even more specifically variations of + / - 1% or less, and still more specifically variations of + / - 0.1% or less, of the specifically recited value, as long as such variations are suitable for making within the disclosure described herein.

[0046] Unless otherwise indicated herein, the enumeration of numerical ranges is intended to be used as a shorthand method for individually referring to each individual numerical value falling within the range, and each individual numerical value is included in the specification as if it were individually listed herein. The range of all provided values is intended to include the endpoints of the range and the value between the endpoints, and is independently combinable. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, all numerical values or numerical ranges include integers within such ranges and the fractions or ranges of these values. Therefore, for example, reference to 90% to 100% ranges includes 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 95%, 97%, etc., and 91.1%, 91.2%, 91.3%, 91.4%, 91.5%, etc., 92.1%, 92.2%, 92.3%, 92.4%, 92.5%, etc. Unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradictory to the context, all methods described herein can be performed in a suitable order.

[0047] It must be noted that, as used in this specification, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include both singular and plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. The terms "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the present invention that may offer certain benefits, under certain circumstances.

[0048] As used herein, the terms "comprising," "including," "having," "containing," "involving," etc. should be understood as open-ended, meaning including but not limited to.

[0049] Therefore, before describing the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific illustrative method parameters or compositions, which can, of course, vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of the present invention only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Examples used anywhere in this specification (including examples of any term discussed herein) are illustrative only and in no way limit the scope and meaning of the present invention or any illustrative term. Likewise, the present invention is not limited to the various embodiments given in this specification. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs. In the event of a conflict, the present document (including definitions) will prevail.

[0050] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a composition comprising a concentrated algal extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent; wherein the concentrated algal extract is present in an amount ranging from about 50% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the preservative is at a concentration of 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0051] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a composition comprising a concentrated algal extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent; wherein the concentrated algal extract is present in an amount ranging from about 60% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the preservative is at a concentration of 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0052] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a composition comprising a concentrated algal extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent; wherein the concentrated algal extract is present in an amount ranging from about 70% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the preservative is present in an amount ranging from 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0053] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a composition comprising a concentrated algal extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent; wherein the concentrated algal extract is present in an amount ranging from about 80% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the preservative is present in an amount ranging from 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0054] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a composition comprising a concentrated algal extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent; wherein the concentrated algal extract is present in an amount ranging from about 90% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the preservative is at a concentration of 0.15% w / w to 10% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 10% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 90% w / w to about 99.75% w / w. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 91% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 92% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 93% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 94% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 95% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 96% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 97% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 98% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 99% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount within the range of about 99.2% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In another preferred embodiment, the concentration of the concentrated algae extract in the composition is 99.52% w / w.

[0056] In one embodiment, the concentrated algal extract is characterized by the presence of any one or more biomarkers selected from the group consisting of:

[0057] a) mannitol present in an amount ranging from about 1.5% w / w to about 7% w / w of the total weight of the extract;

[0058] b) fucoidan present in an amount ranging from about 0.4% w / w to about 1.5% w / w of the total weight of the extract;

[0059] c) polyphenols present in an amount ranging from about 0.2% w / w to about 5% w / w of the total weight of the extract;

[0060] d) glycine betaine present in an amount ranging from about 0.0001% w / w to about 0.005% w / w of the total weight of the extract; and

[0061] e) laminin present in an amount ranging from about 0.01% w / w to about 0.05% w / w of the total weight of the extract.

[0062] In one embodiment, the concentrated algal extract is an acidic extract having a pH range between 2 and 4.

[0063] In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is an extract of seaweed. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is an extract of brown algae. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is an extract selected from the following algae: Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus vesiculosum, Laminaria genus, Laminaria genus, Sargassum genus, Lemna genus, Kappaphycus genus, Gracilaria genus, Macroalgae genus, Trumpet genus, Coleus genus and their mixtures. In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is an extract selected from the following algae: Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus vesiculosum, Laminaria palmata, Laminaria farborealis, Laminaria saccharina, Laminaria maxima, Sargassum species and their mixtures. In a preferred embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is an extract of Ascophyllum nodosum.

[0064] In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 40% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 30% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 20% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 10% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 5% w / w. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 2% w / w. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 1% w / w. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount ranging from about 0.15% w / w to about 0.5% w / w. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount ranging from about 0.15% w / w to about 0.3% w / w. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount ranging from about 0.15% w / w to about 0.25% w / w. In a preferred embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount ranging from about 0.2% w / w to about 0.25% w / w.

[0065] In one embodiment, the preservative is selected from 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one; 2-methyl-2H-isothiazol-3-one; sodium benzoate; potassium benzoate; benzoic acid; sorbic acid; potassium sorbate; sodium sulfite; potassium sulfite; sodium bisulfite; potassium bisulfite; sodium metabisulfite; potassium metabisulfite; sodium methylparaben; citric acid or a salt thereof; malic acid or a salt thereof; tartaric acid or a salt thereof; propionic acid or a salt thereof; acetic acid or a salt thereof, and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the preservative is potassium sorbate. In a preferred embodiment, the preservative is sodium benzoate. In a preferred embodiment, the preservative is sodium methylparaben. In a preferred embodiment, the preservative is sodium metabisulfite.

[0066] In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure preferably includes at least one preservative. Preferably, the preservative is potassium sorbate. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 40% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 30% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 20% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 10% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 0.5% w / w, more preferably 0.2% w / w to about 0.25% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0067] In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure preferably comprises at least one preservative. Preferably, the preservative is sodium benzoate. In one embodiment, sodium benzoate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, sodium benzoate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 40% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, sodium benzoate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 30% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, sodium benzoate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 20% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, sodium benzoate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 0.5% w / w, more preferably about 0.2% w / w to about 0.25% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0068] In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure preferably includes at least one preservative. Preferably, the preservative is sodium methylparaben. In one embodiment, sodium methylparaben is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, sodium methylparaben is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 40% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, sodium methylparaben is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 30% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, sodium methylparaben is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 20% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, sodium methylparaben is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 10% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, sodium methylparaben is present in an amount ranging from about 0.15% w / w to about 0.5% w / w, more preferably from about 0.2% w / w to about 0.25% w / w, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0069] In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure preferably comprises at least two preservatives. The at least two preservatives can be selected from the preservatives disclosed in any one of the above embodiments.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, one of the at least two preservatives is potassium sorbate. In another preferred embodiment, one of the at least two preservatives is sodium metabisulfite.

[0071] In another preferred embodiment, the at least two preservatives are potassium sorbate and sodium metabisulfite. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 40% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 30% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 20% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 10% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 0.5% w / w, more preferably 0.2% w / w to about 0.25% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the sodium metabisulfite is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the sodium metabisulfite is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 40% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the sodium metabisulfite is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 30% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the sodium metabisulfite is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 20% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the sodium metabisulfite is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 10% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, the sodium metabisulfite is present in an amount within the range of about 0.15% w / w to about 0.5% w / w, more preferably 0.2% w / w to about 0.25% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0072] In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure optionally includes a diluent. In one embodiment, the diluent can be present in an amount within the range of about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the diluent can be present in an amount within the range of about 0% w / w to about 40% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the diluent can be present in an amount within the range of about 0% w / w to about 30% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the diluent can be present in an amount within the range of about 0% w / w to about 20% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the diluent can be present in an amount within the range of about 0% w / w to about 10% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the diluent can be present in an amount within the range of about 0% w / w to about 5% w / w. In one embodiment, the diluent can be present in an amount within the range of about 0% w / w to about 2% w / w. In one embodiment, the diluent can be present in an amount within the range of about 0% w / w to about 1% w / w. In one embodiment, the diluent may be present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 0.5% w / w. In one embodiment, the diluent may be present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 0.3% w / w. In one embodiment, the diluent may be present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 0.3% w / w.

[0073] In one embodiment, the diluent may be a polar diluent. In one embodiment, the polar diluent is selected from water, acetone, acetonitrile, dimethylformamide (DMF), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), isopropanol, and methanol. In one embodiment, the polar diluent is water. Therefore, in one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is an aqueous composition. In one embodiment, the polar diluent may be present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the polar diluent may be present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 40% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the polar diluent may be present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 30% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the polar diluent may be present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 20% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In one embodiment, the polar diluent may be present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 10% w / w of the total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, the polar diluent may be present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 0.5% w / w. In another preferred embodiment, the polar diluent may be present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 0.3% w / w.

[0074] In one embodiment, the diluent can be an organic diluent. In one embodiment, the diluent can be selected from paraffin (for example mineral oil fractions, such as kerosene or diesel), coal tar and oils of plant or animal origin, aliphatic hydrocarbons, cyclic hydrocarbons and aromatic hydrocarbons, for example toluene, xylene, paraffin, tetralin, alkylated naphthalenes or their derivatives, alcohols (for example methanol, butanol, amyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, cyclohexanol), ketones (for example cyclohexanone, gamma-butyrolactone), pyrrolidones (NMP, NEP, NOP), acetates (ethylene glycol diacetate), glycols, fatty acid dimethylamides, fatty acids and fatty acid esters, isophorone and dimethyl sulfoxide. In one embodiment, the organic diluent can be present in an amount within the range of about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the gross weight of the composition.

[0075] In one embodiment, the concentrated algal extract has a dry matter content of greater than 5%, preferably from about 5% to about 25%, from about 6% to about 25%, from about 8% to about 25%, from about 10% to about 25%, from about 12% to about 25%, from about 14% to about 25%, from about 16% to about 25%, from about 18% to about 25%, and more preferably from about 20% to about 25%, wherein the dry matter is w / w of the total weight of the extract.

[0076] In one embodiment, the dry matter content of the concentrated algal extract in the composition exceeds about 5%, preferably about 5% to about 25%, about 6% to about 25%, about 8% to about 25%, about 10% to about 25%, about 12% to about 25%, about 14% to about 25%, about 16% to about 25%, about 18% to about 25%, and more preferably about 20% to about 25%, wherein the dry matter is w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0077] The dry matter in the extract or composition can be analyzed by any conventional method or any other method known to those skilled in the art. Such methods include analysis by a moisture analyzer (thermobalance) (such as, but not limited to, a Sartorius MA35 series moisture analyzer).

[0078] The term "dry matter" includes any or both of inorganic and organic components.Dry matter is typically measured using available techniques such as a thermobalance or any other conventional method known to those skilled in the art.

[0079] In one embodiment, the concentrated algal extract has a total organic content of greater than 5%. In one embodiment, the concentrated algal extract has a total organic content of about 5% to about 100%, about 5% to about 90%, about 5% to about 80%, about 5% to about 70%, about 5% to about 60%, about 5% to about 50%, about 5% to about 40%, about 5% to about 30%, and more preferably about 5% to about 20%, wherein the total organic content is the w / w content of the total weight of the extract. In another preferred embodiment, the concentrated algal extract has a total organic content of about 11% to about 18%.

[0080] The total organic content of an extract or composition can be analyzed by any conventional method or any other method known to those skilled in the art. Such methods include analysis by an elemental analyzer (such as, but not limited to, Thermoscientific FlashSmart models). The total organic content is calculated as a measure of the total carbon content. The formula used for this calculation is as follows:

[0081] Total organic matter content = total carbon content × 2

[0082] In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure comprises one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients in addition.Agriculturally acceptable excipients are selected from any one or its combination in the following: wetting agents, dispersants, bonding agents, diluents, solvents, surfactants / emulsifiers, antifreeze agents, mineral substances, fillers, stabilizers, defoamers and preservatives. However, it should be understood that, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, any other agriculturally acceptable excipient as known to those skilled in the art can be used to achieve its intended purpose.

[0083] In another embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure may be in solid form, especially in the form of a powder, dust or granules, water-dispersible granules, microcapsules or wettable powders, or in liquid form, such as an emulsifiable concentrate, solution, emulsion or suspension, ZC formulation, oil dispersion.

[0084] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a composition comprising concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent; wherein the concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract is present in an amount ranging from about 50% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the concentration of the preservative is from 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0085] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for preparing the composition of the present disclosure. The steps of preparing the composition of the present disclosure include:

[0086] i) adding a preservative in an amount of about 0.15% w / w to about 50% w / w to the concentrated algal extract present in an amount of about 50% w / w to about 99.75% w / w, and

[0087] ii) optionally adding a diluent to the composition obtained in step i) in an amount of about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w.

[0088] In one embodiment, the composition thus obtained is filtered and packaged. In one embodiment, the composition thus obtained may be centrifuged before filtering and packaging.

[0089] In one embodiment, the concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract is characterized by the presence of any one or more biomarkers selected from the group consisting of:

[0090] a) mannitol present in an amount ranging from about 1.5% w / w to about 7% w / w of the total weight of the extract;

[0091] b) fucoidan present in an amount ranging from about 0.4% w / w to about 1.5% w / w of the total weight of the extract;

[0092] c) polyphenols present in an amount ranging from about 0.2% w / w to about 5% w / w of the total weight of the extract;

[0093] d) glycine betaine present in an amount ranging from about 0.0001% w / w to about 0.005% w / w of the total weight of the extract; and

[0094] e) laminin present in an amount ranging from about 0.01% w / w to about 0.05% w / w of the total weight of the extract.

[0095] In one embodiment, the concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract is characterized by the presence of polyphenols in an amount from about 0.2% w / w to about 5% w / w of the total weight of the extract.

[0096] In one embodiment, the concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract is characterized by the presence of mannitol in an amount of about 1.5% w / w to about 7% w / w of the total weight of the extract. In one embodiment, the mannitol content of the extract is about 2% w / w to about 6% w / w of the total weight of the extract. In one embodiment, the mannitol content of the extract is in the range of about 3.5% w / w to about 4.5% w / w of the total weight of the extract.

[0097] In one embodiment, the concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract is characterized by the presence of fucoidan in an amount from about 0.4% w / w to about 1.5% w / w of the total weight of the extract.

[0098] In one embodiment, the concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract is characterized by the presence of glycine betaine in an amount from about 0.0001% w / w to about 0.005% w / w of the total weight of the extract.

[0099] In one embodiment, the concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract is characterized by the presence of laminin in an amount from about 0.01% w / w to about 0.05% w / w of the total weight of the extract.

[0100] In one embodiment, the concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract is an acidic extract having a pH range between 2 and 4.

[0101] In one embodiment, the concentrated algae extract is prepared by a process comprising the steps of:

[0102] i) crushing algal cells to cause cell lysis;

[0103] ii) homogenizing the lysed algal cells in an aqueous solution;

[0104] iii) adding an acid to the aqueous solution containing the homogenized lysed algal cells;

[0105] iv) removal of alginate and cellulose by acidic flocculation and filtration; and

[0106] v) concentrating the filtrate to obtain a concentrated algae extract having a pH range between 2 and 4.

[0107] In one embodiment, the acid is selected from the group consisting of a weak acid, a mild acid, and a strong acid; more preferably, the acid is a weak acid or a mild acid. In one embodiment, the weak acid or the mild acid is selected from the group consisting of an organic acid, oxalic acid, sulfurous acid, phosphoric acid, bisulfite ion, nitrous acid, hydrofluoric acid, formic acid, benzoic acid, acetic acid, formic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, ascorbic acid, lactic acid, uric acid, malic acid, succinic acid, propionic acid, acrylic acid, glyceric acid, carbonic acid, glycolic acid, glyoxylic acid, water, a conjugate of a weak base, hydrocyanic acid, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the organic acid is characterized by a carboxyl (-COOH) functional group, wherein the number of carbon atoms in the organic acid is from C1 to C 26 .

[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the acid is a weak or mild acid. Preferably, the acid is a weak or mild acid, such as citric acid, acetic acid, or a combination thereof.

[0109] In one embodiment, the acidic flocculation is carried out in the presence of a strong acid selected from the group consisting of hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, perchloric acid, and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the acidic flocculation is carried out in the presence of hydrochloric acid.

[0110] In one embodiment, the extract obtained has a dry matter content of more than about 5%, preferably about 5% to about 25%, about 6% to about 25%, about 8% to about 25%, about 10% to about 25%, about 11% to about 25%, about 12% to about 25%, about 14% to about 25%, about 16% to about 25%, about 18% to about 25%, more preferably about 20% to about 25%, wherein the dry matter is the w / w content of the total weight of the extract.

[0111] In one embodiment, the extract obtained has a total organic content of about 5% to about 100%, about 5% to about 90%, about 5% to about 80%, about 5% to about 70%, about 5% to about 60%, about 5% to about 50%, about 5% to about 40%, about 5% to about 30%, and more preferably about 5% to about 20%, even more preferably about 11% to about 18%, wherein the total organic content is the w / w content of the total weight of the extract.

[0112] A method for preparing concentrated algae extracts is also disclosed in FR3025699. The present method differs from this prior art in step iii), wherein an acid, preferably a weak or mild acid, is added prior to acidic flocculation to adjust the pH and / or act as a preservative, followed by further concentration to obtain an algae extract with a pH between 2 and 4. In a preferred embodiment, the acid is citric acid or acetic acid, or a combination thereof. In another preferred embodiment, the amount of citric acid or acetic acid, or a combination thereof, added ranges from about 0.1% w / w to about 3% w / w.

[0113] In one embodiment, the extract has a pH in the range of 2 to 3, 3 to 4, or 2.1 to 3.2.

[0114] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a concentrated algae extract obtained by the following method, the method comprising:

[0115] i) crushing algal cells to cause cell lysis;

[0116] ii) homogenizing the lysed algal cells in an aqueous solution;

[0117] iii) adding an acid to the aqueous solution containing the homogenized lysed algal cells;

[0118] iv) removal of alginate and cellulose by acidic flocculation and filtration; and

[0119] v) concentrating the filtrate to obtain a concentrated algae extract having a pH range between 2 and 4.

[0120] In one embodiment, the concentrated algal extract is an acidic extract having a pH range between 2 and 4, wherein an acid is used to acidify the extract.

[0121] In one embodiment, the concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract is prepared by a process comprising the steps of:

[0122] i) crushing algal cells to cause cell lysis;

[0123] ii) homogenizing the lysed algal cells in an aqueous solution;

[0124] iii) adding an acid to the aqueous solution containing the homogenized lysed algal cells;

[0125] iv) removal of alginate and cellulose by acidic flocculation and filtration; and

[0126] v) concentrating the filtrate to obtain a concentrated algae extract having a pH range between 2 and 4.

[0127] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum extract obtained by the following method, the method comprising:

[0128] i) crushing algal cells to cause cell lysis;

[0129] ii) homogenizing the lysed algal cells in an aqueous solution;

[0130] iii) adding an acid to the aqueous solution containing the homogenized lysed algal cells;

[0131] iv) removal of alginate and cellulose by acidic flocculation and filtration; and

[0132] v) concentrating the filtrate to obtain a concentrated algae extract having a pH range between 2 and 4.

[0133] The composition comprising the concentrated algae extract according to the present disclosure is advantageously used in agriculture, where it has many applications depending on the type of plant to which it is applied and the period of the plant's cycle in which it is used.

[0134] As used herein, the term "plant" or "target plant" refers to any vegetation to which the compositions of the present disclosure may be applied for any purpose or any treatment. The term encompasses the entire plant or its parts, such as stems, branches, bark, pistils, flowers, petals, sepals, roots, rhizomes, buds, bulbs, tubers, petioles, nodes, internodes, leaves, leaflets, meristems, root tips, shoot tips, fruits, reproductive organs (such as anthers, stamens, carpels, ovaries, styles, stigmas), etc. The term also encompasses seeds, seedlings, or any plant propagation material. The term "plant propagation material" should be understood to mean all reproductive parts of a plant, such as seeds and vegetative plant materials, such as cuttings and tubers (e.g., potatoes), which can be used for the propagation of plants. This includes seeds, roots, fruits, tubers, bulbs, rhizomes, shoots, new sprouts, and other parts of a plant. It can also include seedlings and young plants that are transplanted after germination or after emergence from the soil. The term "plant propagation material" refers to a plant that is used for agronomic purposes and is preferably a plant that is used for agronomic purposes. The term "plant propagation material" refers to a plant that is used for agronomic purposes and is preferably a plant that is used for agronomic purposes. The term "plant propagation material" refers to a plant that is used for agronomic purposes and is preferably a plant that is used for agronomic purposes. The term "plant propagation material" refers to a plant that is used for agronomic purposes and is preferably a plant that is used for agronomic purposes. The term "plant propagation material" refers to a plant that is used for agronomic purposes and is preferably a plant that is used for agronomic purposes. The term "plant propagation material" refers to a plant that is used for agronomic purposes and is preferably a plant that is used for agronomic purposes. The term "plant propagation material" refers to a plant that is used for agronomic purposes and is preferably a plant that is used for agronomic purposes. The term "plant propagation material" refers to a plant that is used for agronomic purposes and is preferably a plant that is used for agronomic purposes. Non-limiting examples of target plants include corn, cereals such as rice, wheat, barley, rye, oats, sorghum, millet, triticale, buckwheat, etc.; cotton, soybeans, sugar beets, row crops, beans, gram, sugar cane, tobacco, etc.; oilseeds such as rapeseed, peanuts / groundnuts, rapeseed, sunflower, etc.; vegetables: nightshade vegetables such as eggplant, tomato, bell pepper, pepper, potato, etc.; cucurbit vegetables such as cucumber, pumpkin, Zucchini, watermelon, cantaloupe, squash, gourd, melon, etc.; cruciferous vegetables such as radish, white radish, horseradish, kale, cabbage, Indian mustard, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, etc.; Asteraceae vegetables such as burdock, wormwood, artichoke, lettuce, etc.; Liliaceae vegetables such as green onions, onions, shallots, garlic and asparagus; Umbelliferae vegetables such as carrots, parsley, celery, parsnips, leeks, etc.; Chenopodiaceae vegetables such as spinach, beets, etc.Mint vegetables such as Perilla frutescens, mint, basil, etc.; Herbs and spices such as coriander, chamomile, cinnamon, catnip, cloves, fennel, curry, cilantro, cinnamon bark, cardamom, dill, aniseed, juniper, lavender, parsley, rosemary, marigold, mustard, nutmeg, fennel, poppy, thyme, vanilla, saffron, poppy, sage, holly, etc.; Flowers, foliage plants, lawn grasses; Fruits: pome fruits such as apples, pears, quince, guava, etc.; Stone fruits such as peaches, plums, nectarines, cherries, apricots, prunes, etc.; Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, mandarins, maltas, kumquats, pomeloes, tangerines, mandarins, yams, etc. uniq; nuts such as chestnuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, cashews, macadamia nuts, pecans, cashews, hazelnuts, and pine nuts; berries such as cranberries, strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, red raspberries, darrowberries, dewberries, thornless berries, evergreen blackberries, himalayaberries, hullberries, lavacaberries, loganberries, lowberries, lucretiaberries, mammoth blackberries, marionberries, moraberries, mures deronce, nectarberries, olallieberries, evergreen berries, phenomenal berries, rangeberries, ravenberries, rossberries, dewberries, tayberries, youngberries, zarzamora, aronia Berries include: berries, currant, elderberry, barberry, gooseberry, honeysuckle, huckleberry, jostaberry, juneberry, lingonberry, salal, seabuckthorn, bayberry, buffaloberry, chokecherry, maypop, mulberry, bearberry, bilberry, cloudberry, muntries, partridgeberry, grapes, persimmon, kiwi, olives, plums, bananas, coffee, dates, coconut, papaya, persimmon, avocado, dragon fruit, pomegranate, lychee, jackfruit, pineapple, passion fruit, and sapodilla.Trees other than fruit trees; tea trees, mulberry trees, flowering plants; trees such as ash, birch, dogwood, eucalyptus, ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), lilac, maple, oak (Quercus), poplar, redbud, sweetgum (Liquidambar formosana), plane tree, beech, Japanese arborvitae, fir, hemlock, juniper, pine (Pinus), spruce (Picea), and yew (Taxus cuspidate); other crops such as chives, daylilies, Elegans hosta, Fritillaria, gojiberry, okra, peas, hops, beans, guar gum, radish, amaranth, jute, fenugreek, lentils, chickpeas, artichokes, rhubarb, liquorice, sweet potato, Dioscorea spp. japonica), Colocasia spp., ornamental grasses (ornamental grasses, turfs, etc.), their species and cultivars. ;

[0135] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for growth stimulation in a target plant, wherein the method comprises applying a composition comprising a concentrated algal extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent to the target plant or locus; wherein the concentrated algal extract is present in an amount ranging from about 50% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the preservative is present in an amount ranging from 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0136] As used herein, the term "location" shall mean the vicinity of a target plant in need of growth stimulation. A location includes the vicinity of a target plant that has already emerged or has not yet emerged. The term "target plant" shall include a large number of desired crop plants or a single crop plant grown at a particular location. The location includes the area, medium, and soil in which the target plant is grown.

[0137] As used herein, the term "growth stimulation" refers to any improvement in plant health, phenotypic or genotypic characteristics of a plant; beneficial changes observed in a plant; improvements in plant stress and disease tolerance and resistance; and improvements in yield and product quality. Non-limiting examples of growth stimulation include:

[0138] ○ Improved plant nutrient utilization efficiency;

[0139] ○ Enhanced root and shoot growth;

[0140] ○ Improved reproductive heat stress tolerance;

[0141] ○ Improved drought tolerance;

[0142] ○ Improved pollen tube growth;

[0143] ○ Enhanced pollen vitality;

[0144] ○Increased fertilization and fruit setting;

[0145] ○ Increased inflorescence primitive cells;

[0146] ○Increased number of buds, pods and yield;

[0147] ○ Improved and stronger root quality and structure;

[0148] ○ Improved / increased bud development;

[0149] ○ Accelerated emergence of shoots or buds;

[0150] ○ Enhanced emergence vigor / uniformity;

[0151] ○ Improved and added branches;

[0152] ○ Improved / increased diameter and strength;

[0153] ○ Improved / increased inter-node length;

[0154] ○ Increase in the number of yield structures (ears, fruits, etc.);

[0155] ○Increase in leaf area;

[0156] ○ Increased chlorophyll content, greening;

[0157] ○ Increased photosynthetic activity;

[0158] ○ Increased CO2 fixation;

[0159] ○ Accelerated and improved flowering;

[0160] ○ Improvement of pollination;

[0161] ○ Enhanced fruit set and retention;

[0162] ○ Improvement in the size and quality potential of cell division;

[0163] ○ Improvement of fruit smoothness;

[0164] ○ Free from pests such as fungal pests, viruses, bacteria, weeds, insects, and nematodes;

[0165] o Enhanced resistance to pests (such as fungal pests, viruses, bacteria, weeds, insects, nematodes);

[0166] ○ Increased plant weight;

[0167] ○Increased plant height;

[0168] o Increased biomass, such as higher total fresh weight;

[0169] ○ Higher grain yield;

[0170] ○More tillers;

[0171] Larger leaves;

[0172] ○Increased shoot growth;

[0173] ○Increased protein content;

[0174] ○Increased oil content;

[0175] ○ Increased starch content;

[0176] ○Increased pigment content;

[0177] ○Increased plant vitality;

[0178] ○ Improved plant vigor;

[0179] ○ Improved plant growth;

[0180] ○ Improved plant development;

[0181] o Improved visual appearance of plants or parts thereof;

[0182] ○ Improved plant density (less plants falling / lodging);

[0183] ○ Improved emergence;

[0184] ○ Enhanced nodulation, especially rhizobium nodulation;

[0185] Larger leaves;

[0186] Increased yield when grown on poor soil or in an unfavorable climate;

[0187] ○ Enhanced pigment content (e.g., chlorophyll content);

[0188] ○ Bloom earlier;

[0189] ○Earlier results;

[0190] ○Earlier and improved germination;

[0191] ○Earlier grain maturity;

[0192] ○ Improved self-defense mechanisms;

[0193] o Improved stress tolerance and resistance of plants to biotic and abiotic stress factors such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, insects, heat stress, cold stress, drought stress, UV stress and / or salt stress;

[0194] Fewer unproductive farmers;

[0195] ○ Fewer dead basal leaves;

[0196] ○ Requires fewer inputs (such as fertilizer or water);

[0197] ○Greener leaves;

[0198] ○Fully mature under a shortened vegetation period;

[0199] ○ Requires less fertilizer;

[0200] ○ Requires fewer seeds;

[0201] ○Easier to harvest;

[0202] ○ Faster and more uniform ripening;

[0203] ○Longer shelf life;

[0204] ○ Longer particles;

[0205] ○ Delayed aging;

[0206] Stronger and / or more efficient cultivators;

[0207] ○ Better ingredient extractability;

[0208] o Improved seed quality (for sowing in subsequent seasons for seed production);

[0209] ○ Reduced ethylene production and / or inhibition of its uptake by plants;

[0210] ○Increased nutrient content;

[0211] ○ Increased fatty acid content;

[0212] ○ Increased metabolite content;

[0213] ○ Increased carotenoid content;

[0214] Increased sugar content

[0215] ○ Increased amount of essential amino acids · Improved nutrient composition;

[0216] ○ Improved protein composition;

[0217] ○ Improved fatty acid composition;

[0218] ○ Improved metabolite composition;

[0219] ○ Improved carotenoid composition;

[0220] ○ Improved sugar composition;

[0221] ○ Improved amino acid composition;

[0222] ○ Improved or optimal fruit color;

[0223] ○ Improved leaf color;

[0224] ○ Higher storage capacity; and / or

[0225] ○ Higher processability of harvested products.

[0226] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method of increasing the growth of a target plant, wherein the method comprises applying a composition comprising a concentrated algal extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent to the target plant or locus; wherein the concentrated algal extract is present in an amount ranging from about 50% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the preservative is at a concentration of 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0227] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method of increasing yield of a target plant, wherein the method comprises applying a composition comprising a concentrated algal extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent to the target plant or locus; wherein the concentrated algal extract is present in an amount ranging from about 50% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the preservative is at a concentration of 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0228] It has also been observed that the compositions of the present disclosure can promote plant growth and increase plant yield under reduced nutrient or nutrient deficient conditions. Thus, the compositions of the present disclosure help reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers, thereby promoting a sustainable and environmentally friendly way of growing plants (especially agricultural plants and crops) and increasing their yield.

[0229] Thus, in one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method of promoting growth and increasing yield of a target plant under conditions of nutrient deficiency, wherein the method comprises applying a composition comprising a concentrated algal extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent to the target plant or locus; wherein the concentrated algal extract is present in an amount ranging from about 50% w / w to about 99.75% w / w of the total weight of the composition, the preservative is at a concentration of 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

[0230] One embodiment of the present disclosure also provides a method for determining the quality of the composition of the present disclosure, the method comprising:

[0231] i) obtaining a sample of the composition; and

[0232] ii) measuring the pH and the concentration of any one or more biomarkers selected from the group consisting of mannitol, glycine betaine, fucoidan, polyphenols, and laminin of a sample of the composition;

[0233] Wherein the pH of a sample of the composition is detected to be within the range of 2 to 4 and wherein the concentration of any one or more of the biomarkers selected from mannitol, glycine betaine, fucoidan, polyphenols, and laminin is detected to be within the range as provided in Table 2, the composition is considered stable and good.

[0234] Plants for which the compositions comprising the concentrated algae extract of the present disclosure can be used are agronomically useful plants, such as vegetables, fruits, and grain crops, as well as ornamental plants. Agronomically useful plants are angiosperms selected from the group consisting of: Apiaceae, Asteraceae, Cruciferae, Chenopodiaceae, Convolvulaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Fabaceae, Gramiferaceae, Liliaceae, Polygonaceae, Rosaceae, Solanaceae, Poaceae, and Vitaceae. Thus, in one embodiment, the target plant is selected from crops, grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, vines, nursery plants, and flowers. In one embodiment, non-limiting examples of target plants include corn, cereals such as rice, wheat, barley, rye, oats, sorghum, millet, triticale, buckwheat, etc.; cotton, soybeans, sugar beets, row crops, beans, grama grass, sugar cane, tobacco, etc.; oilseeds such as oilseed rape, peanuts / groundnuts, rapeseed, sunflower, etc.; vegetables: Solanaceae vegetables such as eggplant, tomato, bell pepper, pepper, potato, etc.; Cucurbitaceae vegetables such as cucumber, pumpkin, zucchini, watermelon, cantaloupe, squash, gourd, melon, etc.; Cruciferous vegetables such as radish, white radish, horseradish, kale, cabbage, Indian mustard, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, etc.; Asteraceae vegetables such as burdock, wormwood, artichoke, lettuce, etc.; Liliaceae vegetables such as green onion, onion, shallot, garlic, and asparagus; Umbelliferae vegetables such as carrot, parsley, celery, escarole, etc. Radishes, leeks, etc.; quinoa vegetables such as spinach, beets, etc.; mint vegetables such as basil, mint, basil, etc.; herbs and spices such as coriander, chamomile, cinnamon, catnip, cloves, fennel, curry, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, dill, aniseed, juniper, lavender, parsley, rosemary, marigold, mustard, nutmeg, fennel, poppy, thyme, vanilla, saffron, poppy, sage, holly, etc.; flowers, ornamental plants Leafy plants, lawn grasses; Fruits: pome fruits such as apples, pears, quince, guava, etc.; Stone fruits such as peaches, plums, nectarines, cherries, apricots, prunes, etc.; Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, mandarins, maltas, kumquats, pomelos, tangerines, mandarins, and Jamaican ugly fruits; Nuts such as chestnuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, cashews, macadamia nuts, pecans, cashews, hazelnuts, and pine nuts;Berries, such as cranberries, strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, red berries, dulse berries, dewberries, thornless berries, evergreen blackberries, European blackberries, hullberries, lavacaberries, loganberries, lowberries, lucretiaberries, mammoth blackberries, marionberries, blackberries, mures deronce, nectarberry, olallieberry, evergreen berry, extraordinary berry, rangeberry, ravenberry, rossberry, dewberry, tayberry, young's strawberry, blackberry, wild aronia, gooseberry, elderberry, berberis berries, gooseberry, honeysuckle, American huckleberry, hybrid gooseberry, Juneberry, huckleberry, Sharon white gaultheria, sea buckthorn, bayberry, buffaloberry, bitter cherry, pink passion fruit, mulberry, bearberry, European huckleberry, cloudberry, muntries, tiger thorn berry, etc.; grapes, persimmon, kiwi, olives, plums, bananas, coffee, dates, coconuts, papaya, persimmon, avocado, dragon fruit , pomegranate, lychee, jackfruit, pineapple, passion fruit, sapodilla, etc.; trees other than fruit trees; tea trees, mulberry trees, flowering plants; trees such as ash, birch, dogwood, eucalyptus, ginkgo, lilac, maple, oak, poplar, redbud, sweetgum, plane tree, beech, Japanese arborvitae, fir, hemlock, juniper, pine, spruce, and yew; other crops such as chives, daylilies, hosta, fritillaria, goji berry, okra, peas, hops, beans, guar gum, radish, amaranth, jute, fenugreek, lentils, chickpeas, artichokes, rhubarb, liquorice, sweet potato, Japanese yam, taro, ornamental grasses (ornamental lawn, turf, etc.), and their varieties and cultivars.

[0235] In a preferred embodiment, the target plant is corn, row crops, beans, corn, rice, oilseed rape, oilseeds, soybean, tomato, potato, wheat, cotton, cherry, apple, grape, wine grape, citrus, pome fruit, fruit vegetables, almond, peanut, walnut, pistachio and peanut / groundnut.

[0236] One embodiment also provides seeds coated with the composition of the present disclosure.

[0237] The composition of the present disclosure according to one embodiment may be applied at the following times

[0238] • Before emergence

[0239] •After emergence

[0240] • Before sowing

[0241] • Before harvest

[0242] • Post-harvest

[0243] In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is applied at the following times: before planting / sowing; at sowing, germination, early leaf stage, initial flowering stage, before flowering, full flowering stage, petal shedding stage, swelling bud stage, bud germination stage, after petal shedding, after bud breakage, before bud breakage, complete pistil stage, after pollination, square formation stage, head setting stage, after head setting, fruiting stage, initial flowering stage, greening (after dormancy) stage, bud setting stage, etc.; after flowering stage; harvest stage; and / or after harvest. In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure can be applied at any time throughout the growth period, as conventionally known to those skilled in the art. The application time depends on the target plant; environmental conditions, such as nutrient deficiency, biotic and abiotic stresses; application type and expected results or any other parameters known to those skilled in the art. Application can be carried out throughout the growth process of the plant, once or more per week.

[0244] In one embodiment, the composition according to the invention is applied directly and / or indirectly to the plants and / or plant propagation material by watering the soil, by dripping onto the soil, by soil injection, by immersion or by treating the seeds.

[0245] The compositions of the present disclosure can be applied by dusting, spraying, granular application, seed pelleting / dressing, broadcasting, in-furrow application, side application, spot application, ring application, root zone application, pralinage, seedling root dip, pot treatment, trunk / stem injection, bedding, wiping, root feeding, soil drench, capsule placement, baiting, fumigation, tying, foliar application, basal application, space treatment, enclosed space fumigation, and such other methods that can help prevent or control or eradicate diseases.

[0246] In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is applied by irrigation, in-furrow application, soil application, drip irrigation, soil injection, hydroponic application, capillary action application, root penetration or foliar application. In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is applied as a seed treatment agent, such as seed soaking application, seed coating application, germination treatment or rooting / sprouting dip treatment. The type of application is determined based on the target plant, the expected results and the application time, as well as any other conventional parameters known to those skilled in the art.

[0247] The compositions of the present invention can be applied by using conventional ground sprayers, granule applicators, watering (drenching), drip irrigation, spraying, atomizing, broadcasting, dusting, foaming, spreading, aerial spraying methods, aerial application methods, methods of application using modern technology (such as, but not limited to, drones, robots, pretreatment devices, knapsack sprayers, spray tanks, spray airplanes or irrigation systems) and by other conventional means known to those skilled in the art.

[0248] In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is applied at a rate of 10 ml / ha to 1000 ml / ha. In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is applied at a rate of 50 ml / ha to 500 ml / ha. In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is applied at a rate of 70 ml / ha to 300 ml / ha. In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is applied at a rate of 30 ml / ha to 600 ml / ha.

[0249] In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is applied at a rate of 10 ml / 1 kg of seed to about 700 ml / 1 kg of seed.

[0250] In one embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is applied at a rate of 10 ml / 100 kg of seeds to about 700 ml / 100 kg of seeds.

[0251] In one embodiment, the dosage rate of the composition of the present disclosure is in the range of about 0.01 ml / L to about 100 ml / L. In a preferred embodiment, the dosage rate of the composition of the present disclosure is in the range of about 0.1 ml / L to about 50 ml / L. In another preferred embodiment, the dosage rate of the composition of the present disclosure is in the range of about 0.2 ml / L to about 10 ml / L. In another preferred embodiment, the dosage rate of the composition of the present disclosure is in the range of about 0.25 ml / L to about 1 ml / L.

[0252] Compositions comprising the concentrated algal extract of the present disclosure may particularly be used alone or in combination with nutritional, biostimulant, or phytosanitary compositions.

[0253] In another embodiment, the compositions of the present disclosure are combined, formulated and / or applied together with one or more additional agrochemical active substances. According to one embodiment, the agrochemical active substances are selected from fertilizers, mycorrhizae, micronutrients, acaricides, algaecides, antifeedants, aviicides, bactericides, bird repellents, chemosterilants, fungicides, herbicide safeners, herbicides, insect attractants, insect repellents, insecticides, mammal repellents, mating disruptors, molluscicides, nematicides, plant activators, plant growth regulators, rodenticides, synergists, virucides, derivatives thereof, biocontrol agents, superabsorbent polymers and mixtures thereof.

[0254] All headings and sub-headings are used herein for convenience only and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way.

[0255] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[0256] Example

[0257] Example 1: Composition comprising Ascophyllum nodosum extract, a preservative and a diluent

[0258] Table 1: Compositions comprising Ascophyllum nodosum extract, preservatives, and diluents

[0259]

[0260] Method for preparing concentrated algae extract of Ascophyllum nodosum:

[0261] Fresh brown algae Ascophyllum nodosum was harvested from seawater. The seaweed was subjected to mechanical crushing followed by microcrushing to lyse the algal cells. 0.5% w / w citric acid (99% purity) was added to the crushed and homogenized seaweed (algal cells). The resulting solution was further subjected to flocculation under acidic conditions to remove alginate and cellulose. The flocculated solution was filtered. The filtrate was concentrated by vacuum evaporation to obtain a concentrated algal extract of Ascophyllum nodosum. The pH of the concentrated extract was measured using a pH meter (Mettler Toledo, Seven Compact). The pH was found to be in the range of 2 to 4.

[0262] The concentrated algal extract was characterized by the following biomarkers: The biomarkers were analyzed by LC / MS / MS (liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry detection) using standard protocols.

[0263] Table 2: Characterization of concentrated algal extracts of Ascophyllum nodosum by biomarkers .

[0264]

[0265] Method for preparing a composition of concentrated algae extract of Ascophyllum nodosum:

[0266] 0.23% w / w potassium sorbate was added to 99.52% w / w concentrated algae extract of Ascophyllum nodosum, which was further mixed with a diluent to obtain the final composition as provided in Table 1.

[0267] The final compositions as provided in Table 1 were again subjected to pH and biomarker analysis as provided herein. The pH of the final compositions were found to be in the range of 2 to 4, and the biomarker concentrations were detected to be in the range provided in Table 2.

[0268] Example 2: Dry matter content and total organic matter content of the concentrated extract and composition of Ascophyllum nodosum of Example 1 Total carbon content (Table 1) .

[0269] The dry matter content of the Ascophyllum nodosum concentrated extract and the composition of Example 1 (Table 1) was determined using a thermobalance (Sartorius MA35 series moisture analyzer).

[0270] The dry matter content of the Ascophyllum nodosum concentrated extract and composition of Example 1 (Table 1) was found to be in the range of 20% to 25%.

[0271] The carbon content of the Ascophyllum nodosum concentrated extract and the composition of Example 1 was measured using an elemental analyzer Thermoscientific-FlashSmart model (Table 1).

[0272] The organic matter content is calculated by the following formula

[0273] Organic matter content = carbon content (concentrated extract of Ascophyllum nodosum) × 2

[0274] The organic content of the Ascophyllum nodosum concentrated extract and composition of Example 1 (Table 1) was found to be in the range of 11% to 18%.

[0275] Example 3: Stability evaluation of the composition of Example 1

[0276] The composition of Example 1 was subjected to a stability assessment over a period of 36 months. The parameters selected for evaluating the stability of the composition of Example 1 were pH, mannitol content, and foaming. The composition of Example 1 was stored for 2 weeks (54°C), 2 months (-10°C, 40°C), 6 months (20°C), 12 months (20°C), 24 months (20°C), and 36 months (20°C). Zero-day readings of the assessed parameters at room temperature were used for comparison.

[0277] Table 3: Storage stability of the composition of Example 1 at different temperatures for a period of 36 months

[0278]

[0279] It can be observed that the composition of Example 1 remained stable throughout its storage period at different temperatures. The sample without preservative was found to discolor and degrade within the same time span.

[0280] Example 4: Composition comprising Ascophyllum nodosum extract and a preservative

[0281] Table 4: Compositions containing Ascophyllum nodosum extract and two preservatives

[0282]

[0283] Method for preparing concentrated algae extract of Ascophyllum nodosum:

[0284] Fresh brown algae Ascophyllum nodosum was harvested from seawater. The seaweed was mechanically crushed and then micro-crushed to lyse the algal cells. 0.5% w / w citric acid (99% purity) was added to the crushed and homogenized seaweed and flocculated under acidic conditions. The flocculated solution was filtered. The filtrate was concentrated by vacuum evaporation to obtain a concentrated algal extract of Ascophyllum nodosum.

[0285] Method for preparing a composition of concentrated algae extract of Ascophyllum nodosum:

[0286] 0.23% w / w potassium sorbate and 0.25% w / w sodium metabisulfite were added to 99.52% w / w concentrated algae extract of Ascophyllum nodosum to obtain the final composition as provided in Table 4. It was also observed that the composition of Table 4 was stable and effective.

[0287] The pH of the compositions of Table 4 was analyzed using a pH meter (Mettler Toledo, SevenCompact), the dry matter was analyzed using a thermobalance (Sartorius MA35), and the organic content was obtained by measuring the carbon (C) content using an elemental analyzer (ThermoScientific, FlashSmart), and then multiplied by a factor of 2 to obtain the organic content. The analysis was performed in triplicate. The observations are recorded in Table 5 below:

[0288] Table 5: pH, dry matter content and organic matter content of the compositions of Table 4

[0289]

[0290] The compositions of Table 4 were analyzed for biomarkers over a 12-month period using standard protocols by LC / MS / MS (liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry detection). The analysis was performed in two groups. The observations are recorded in Table 6 below.

[0291] Table 6: Biomarker Analysis of the Composition of Table 4 Over a 12-Month Period .

[0292]

[0293] Samples without preservatives were found to discolor and degrade within the same time span.

[0294] Example 5: Use of the composition of Example 1 in increasing yield in corn .

[0295] At the V4 stage (the fourth leaf collar is visible), the composition of Example 1 was applied to corn at a rate of 73 ml / ha. The trial was conducted in 6 groups. The trial was conducted in the United States in 2020.

[0296] The maize yield obtained was measured in kg / ha (mean value of yields from 6 trials).

[0297] Table 7: Corn yield due to application of the composition of Example 1

[0298]

[0299] In the above test, it was observed that the corn yield increased by 3% when the composition of Example 1 was applied.

[0300] Example 6: Effect of the composition of Example 4 on delayed senescence and yield in corn under standard N conditions and reduced N conditions Increasing uses

[0301] The composition of Example 4 was applied in-furrow to corn at sowing at a rate of 36.5 ml / kg seed and 365 ml / kg seed under standard N (nitrogen) conditions (Trial A) and reduced N (nitrogen) conditions (Trial B). Standard N conditions involved applying an NPK fertilizer at a standard ratio of 120:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha). Reduced N conditions involved applying an NPK fertilizer at a ratio of 00:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha). The parameters evaluated were the number of days after sowing to the onset of senescence and cob weight (weight of 10 cobs in kg).

[0302] Test A: Standard N conditions - 120:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha)

[0303] Experiment B: Reduced N conditions - 00:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha)

[0304] Observation results :

[0305] Test A

[0306] Table 8: Effect of the composition of Example 1 on the onset of senescence, cob weight, and kernels in corn under standard N conditions. ring .

[0307]

[0308] Test B

[0309] Table 9: Effects of the composition of Example 4 on the onset of senescence, cob weight, and kernels in corn under reduced N conditions. Influence

[0310]

[0311] It was thus observed that under standard as well as reduced nitrogen conditions, the composition of Example 4 delayed the onset of senescence in corn and produced cobs and kernels with greater weight compared to untreated samples.

[0312] Example 7: Use of the composition of Example 4 in corn to increase shoot weight, root weight and vigor

[0313] The composition of Example 4 was applied in-furrow to corn at sowing at rates of 36.5 ml / kg seed and 365 ml / kg seed, respectively, under standard N conditions (Trial A) and reduced N conditions (Trial B). Standard N conditions involved the application of an NPK fertilizer at a standard ratio of 120:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha). Reduced N conditions involved the application of an NPK fertilizer at a ratio of 00:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha). The parameters evaluated were shoot fresh weight at BBCH 12, BBCH 14, and BBCH 51; root fresh weight at BBCH 51; and vigor at BBCH 30 and BBCH 51.

[0314] Test A: Standard N conditions - 120:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha)

[0315] Experiment B: Reduced N conditions - 00:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha)

[0316] The BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und ChemischeIndustrie) scale is a unified coding system for growing stages that has been widely used to describe plant phenology (Meier, U. (2001) Growth Stages of Mono and Dicotyledonous Plants. BBCHMonograph, Federal Biological Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, Bonn).

[0317] Observation results

[0318] Test A

[0319] Table 10: Effects of the composition of Example 1 on the fresh weight of shoots, fresh weight of roots and vigor of corn under standard N conditions ring .

[0320]

[0321] Test B

[0322] Table 11: Effects of the composition of Example 4 on shoot fresh weight, root fresh weight and vigor of corn under reduced N conditions ring .

[0323]

[0324] It was thus observed that the composition of Example 4 improved shoot fresh weight, root fresh weight and vigor of plants at different growth stages compared to untreated samples under standard as well as reduced nitrogen conditions.

[0325] Example 8 :

[0326] In-furrow applications of the composition of Example 4 were conducted in corn at sowing at rates of 36.5 ml / kg seed, 365 ml / kg seed, and 600 ml / kg seed, respectively, under standard N (nitrogen) conditions (Trial A) and reduced N (nitrogen) conditions (Trial B). Standard N conditions involved the application of an NPK fertilizer at a standard ratio of 120:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha). Reduced N conditions involved the application of an NPK fertilizer at a ratio of 00:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha). The parameters evaluated were stalk diameter at BBCH 51, greenness index (%) at BBCH 30 and BBCH 51, and cob yield (kg) per plot.

[0327] Test A: Standard N conditions - 120:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha)

[0328] Experiment B: Reduced N conditions - 00:60:40 (N:P:K kg / ha)

[0329] The BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und ChemischeIndustrie) scale is a unified coding system for growing stages that has been widely used to describe plant phenology (Meier, U. (2001) Growth Stages of Mono and Dicotyledonous Plants. BBCHMonograph, Federal Biological Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, Bonn).

[0330] Test A

[0331] Table 12: Effect of the composition of Example 1 on stem diameter, green index and cob yield per plot under standard N conditions Impact

[0332]

[0333] Test B

[0334] Table 13: Effect of the composition of Example 4 on stem diameter, green index and cob yield per plot under reduced N conditions. The impact of quantity .

[0335]

[0336] Example 9: Effect of applying the composition of Example 1 on wheat

[0337] Wheat seeds were sown in 9 cm square pots containing ultrafine vermiculite. The pots were placed on a rotating tray in a growth chamber set at 20°C / 18°C (day / night; 16h / 8h), with a relative humidity of 70% and a light intensity of 252 ± 20µmol.m -2 .s -1 Plants were watered with tap water until 8 days after sowing and then every 2 days with 1 g / L of nutrient solution N / P / K 20:20:20.

[0338] 1 mL of the composition of Example 1 was applied to each pot. Five applications of the product were made via root application. Applications were made 15 days after sowing (DAS) and every two days until the fifth soil application. The product was applied via root application after diluting the corresponding volume of product at 1 g / L in Prod N / P / K 20:20:20 plant nutrient solution. The volume was adjusted according to the needs of the plant.

[0339] An untreated control was set up in which the composition of Example 1 was not applied.

[0340] Wheat plants were harvested 28 days after sowing. Aerial parts were excised and weighed on a 0.01 g precision weighing scale (supplier: Radwag PS 6000 / X) to determine fresh weight (FW). Aerial dry weight (DW) was determined by drying plant tissue at 105°C in a convection oven for 6 days (supplier: Memmert UN260). DW was measured using the same weighing scale used for FW.

[0341] Quantification of relative chlorophyll concentration is performed using a nondestructive method that uses light transmitted through leaves at two wavelengths to determine leaf greenness and thickness. Transmission in the infrared range provides a measurement related to leaf thickness, while wavelengths in the red range are used to determine greenness. The ratio of the transmittance at the two wavelengths provides an index of chlorophyll content, known as the Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD) index (Richardson et al., 2002).

[0342] The SPAD index was measured using a SPAD chlorophyll meter (SPAD-502, Minolta Camera Corporation Ltd., Osaka, Japan). Three measurements were taken on each leaf from six plants under each experimental condition. These measurements were taken on the same leaf row (the second leaf from the middle frond) of each plant.

[0343] The number of biological replicates analyzed was 6 (n=6) for plant growth and 6 (n=6) for SPAD. The observations are recorded in Table 14 below.

[0344] Table 14: Fresh biomass content, dry biomass content, and SPAD index of the composition of Example 1 effect

[0345]

[0346] It can be observed from Examples 5 to 9 that the application of the composition of the present disclosure results in an increase in growth parameters such as shoot weight, root weight, stem thickness, green index, chlorophyll content, fresh biomass, dry biomass and yield while delaying the onset of senescence.

[0347] Examples 6-8 demonstrate that the compositions of the present disclosure can reduce reliance on fertilizer use and provide better agricultural products under nutrient deficiency conditions.

Claims

1. A composition comprising a concentrated algae extract, a preservative, and optionally a diluent; wherein the concentrated algae extract is present in an amount ranging from about 50% w / w to about 99.75% w / w, based on the total weight of the composition, the preservative is present in an amount ranging from 0.15% w / w to 50% w / w, based on the total weight of the composition, and the diluent is present in an amount ranging from about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w, based on the total weight of the composition.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the concentrated algal extract is characterized by the presence of any one or more biomarkers selected from the group consisting of: (a) mannitol present in an amount ranging from about 1.5% w / w to about 7% w / w of the total weight of the extract; (b) fucoidan present in an amount ranging from about 0.4% w / w to about 1.5% w / w of the total weight of the extract; (c) polyphenols present in an amount ranging from about 0.2% w / w to about 5% w / w of the total weight of the extract; (d) glycine betaine present in an amount ranging from about 0.0001% w / w to about 0.005% w / w of the total weight of the extract; and (e) laminin is present in an amount ranging from about 0.01% w / w to about 0.05% w / w of the total weight of the extract.

3. The composition of claim 1, wherein the concentrated algae extract is an acidic extract having a pH range between 2 and 4.

4. The composition of claim 1, wherein the concentrated algae extract is an extract of an algae selected from the group consisting of Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus vesiculosus, Laminaria digitata, Laminaria hyperborea, Laminaria saccharina, Laminaria maxima, Sargassum species, and mixtures thereof.

5. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises at least one preservative.

6. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises at least two preservatives.

7. The composition according to any one of claims 1 or 5 to 6, wherein the preservative is selected from 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one; 2-methyl-2H-isothiazol-3-one; sodium benzoate; potassium benzoate; benzoic acid; sorbic acid; potassium sorbate; sodium sulfite; potassium sulfite; sodium bisulfite; potassium bisulfite; sodium metabisulfite; potassium metabisulfite; sodium methylparaben; citric acid or a salt thereof; malic acid or a salt thereof; tartaric acid or a salt thereof; propionic acid or a salt thereof, and combinations thereof.

8. The composition of claim 1, wherein the concentrated algae extract is prepared by a process comprising the steps of: i) crushing algal cells to cause cell lysis; ii) homogenizing the lysed algal cells in an aqueous solution; iii) adding an acid to the aqueous solution containing the homogenized lysed algal cells; iv) removal of alginate and cellulose by acidic flocculation and filtration; as well as v) concentrating the filtrate to obtain said concentrated algae extract having a pH range between 2 and 4.

9. The composition of claim 8, wherein the pH of the filtrate is adjusted with a weak or mild acid selected from the group consisting of an organic acid, oxalic acid, sulfurous acid, phosphoric acid, bisulfite ion, nitrous acid, hydrofluoric acid, formic acid, benzoic acid, acetic acid, formic acid, citric acid, acetic acid, tartaric acid, ascorbic acid, lactic acid, uric acid, malic acid, succinic acid, propionic acid, acrylic acid, glyceric acid, carbonic acid, glycolic acid, glyoxylic acid, water, a conjugate of a weak base, hydrocyanic acid, and combinations thereof.

10. The composition according to claim 8, wherein the extract obtained has a dry matter content greater than 5%.

11. The composition according to claim 8, wherein the extract obtained has a total organic content of 5% to 100%.

12. A method for preparing the composition according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises: (i) adding a preservative in an amount of about 0.15% w / w to about 50% w / w to a concentrated algal extract having greater than 5% dry matter present in an amount of about 50% w / w to about 99.75% w / w, and (ii) optionally adding a diluent to the composition obtained in step i) in an amount of about 0% w / w to about 50% w / w.

13. A method for growth stimulation in a target plant, wherein the method comprises applying the composition according to claim 1 to the target plant or locus.

14. A method of determining the quality of the composition of claim 1, wherein the method comprises: i) obtaining a sample of the composition; as well as ii) measuring the pH and the concentration of any one or more biomarkers selected from the group consisting of mannitol, glycine betaine, fucoidan, polyphenols, and laminin of the sample of the composition; Wherein the pH of the sample of the composition is detected to be within the range of 2 to 4 and wherein the concentration of any one or more of the biomarkers selected from mannitol, glycine betaine, fucoidan, polyphenols and laminin is detected to be within the range as provided in Table 2, the composition is considered stable and good.

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