Fertilizer Specialties
Chitosan
Chitosan is a biologically derived polysaccharide used within biostimulants due to its strong elicitor effect. It activates natural defense and stress mechanisms in plants, contributing to increased resilience without causing direct damage or growth inhibition.
What is chitosan?
Chitosan is created by the deacetylation of chitin, a natural substance found in the shells of crustaceans and in the cell walls of fungi. Due to this origin, chitosan is recognized by plants as a biological signal molecule.
- Naturally derived polysaccharide
- Biologically recognizable for plants
- Highly active in low doses
- Functions as an elicitor
Chitosan as an elicitor
When chitosan is perceived by the plant, it activates internal signaling pathways normally involved in defense against pathogens. This process is known as induced resistance.
Effects of chitosan on stress response
Biotic stress
In the face of fungi, bacteria, or other pathogens, chitosan enhances the plant's defense responses and helps limit further damage.
Abiotic stress
Chitosan can also contribute to regulating stress pathways in abiotic stress, thereby limiting cellular damage.
Influence on plant physiology
Through activation of defense and protection mechanisms, chitosan influences various physiological processes, including cell wall strengthening and antioxidant activity.
Chitosan and plant priming
Chitosan is often used for plant priming: preparing the plant for future stress. As a result, the plant responds faster and more effectively when stress actually occurs.
Chitosan in biostimulant formulations
Within biostimulants, chitosan is used as a functional component to support resilience and stress claims.
- Support of natural defense
- Applicable in leaf and root treatments
- Compatible with other biostimulant raw materials
- Suitable for diverse crops
Effect on plant performance
Correctly applied chitosan contributes to:
- Increased plant resistance
- Faster and stronger stress response
- Reduction of damage by pathogens
- Maintenance of plant vitality
Overview: role of chitosan
| Aspect | Contribution of chitosan |
|---|---|
| Elicitor effect | Activation of defense mechanisms |
| Plant priming | Preparation for future stress |
| Stress response | Faster and targeted reaction |
| Plant physiology | Strengthening of protection pathways |
| Formulation | Resilience-oriented biostimulant raw material |