Chinese scientists develop soil “seed” technology to accelerate desertification control

Scientists in northwest China have developed an innovative soil “seed” designed to combat desertification by rapidly forming artificial biological soil crusts in arid regions, significantly reducing the time needed to stabilise shifting sand dunes.

The breakthrough was achieved by researchers at the Shapotou Desert Research and Experiment Station, part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The solid cyanobacteria inoculum they created can shorten the natural sand fixation process from around a century to approximately three years.

According to Xinhua News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS, spreading the solid “seeds” across desert surfaces allows biological soil crusts to form once exposed to rainfall, creating a stable foundation for future vegetation growth.

Cyanobacteria play a crucial role in natural desert ecosystems by binding sand grains together and enhancing soil stability. However, earlier attempts to transplant laboratory-grown cyanobacteria into open desert conditions proved unsuccessful, as moving sand grains destroyed the fragile biofilm within days.

Inspired by natural rainfall patterns, the research team previously introduced a pressurised spraying technique, injecting cyanobacteria into gaps between sand particles. This method reduced crust formation time from roughly 15 years under natural conditions to one or two years, with survival rates exceeding 60 per cent. It also helped prevent dehydration from direct sunlight while taking advantage of the sand layer’s inherent water retention capacity.

Researchers achieved this by combining cyanobacteria solution with organic matter and fine particles in carefully controlled proportions to create a paste-like substance, later processed into solid form. The method, likened to mixing cement, requires precise ratios and stirring techniques to ensure optimal performance.

Over the next five years, the technology is expected to support the rehabilitation of between 80,000 and 100,000 mu (approximately 5,333 to 6,667 hectares) of desert land.