The Research Group in Plant Eco-physiology and Terrestrial Ecosystems of the Industrial University of Santander (UIS) leads an innovative project that could transform the cultivation of copoazú, an Amazonian fruit known as “white cocoa” and with great agro-industrial potential. The formula? Melatonin -yes, the hormone that regulates sleep in humans- and native microorganisms that inhabit the soils where this species grows.
The initiative, which is being developed under the project “Implementation of a scientific ecosystem for the integral use of the biological diversity of Theobroma grandiflorum in agroforestry systems in the department of Caquetá”, seeks to improve the yield and resistance of the crop, which is essential for rural communities in this Amazon region.
Science with local impact
The project is co-financed by the General System of Royalties and MINCIENCIAS, and is supported by a strong inter-institutional team: The University of Amazonia, the University of Nariño, the University of Antioquia and, of course, local producers’ associations. A true ecosystem of collaborative science with direct impact on the territory.
In addition, it is articulated with another key study: the development of bioinputs from the native microbiome of the copoazú and agricultural residues of Caquetá. This work is carried out both in rural areas of the department and in the laboratories of the UIS in Bucaramanga and in the Guatiguará Technology Park.
Melatonin: beyond insomnia
One of the most striking aspects of the project is the use of melatonin as a plant biostimulant. As explained by Professor Nelson Rodríguez López, from the Laboratory of Plant Ecophysiology and Terrestrial Ecosystems of the UIS School of Biology, this substance, commonly associated with humans, has been shown to have positive effects on other plant species.
“We are evaluating the use of melatonin in copoazu plants to strengthen their tolerance to abiotic stress, such as drought or lack of nutrients. What is interesting is that we are even using melatonin extracted from coffee waste, which also contributes to the sustainability of the project,” said Rodríguez.
These experiments are carried out in the Biology Greenhouse at the UIS central campus and are led by an interdisciplinary team that also includes Professor William Hidalgo from the School of Chemistry and Professor Mario Negrete from the School of Health.
Towards a more competitive copoazú
The final objective is clear: to obtain biostimulants that boost the growth and productivity of copoazú, a plant that is not only important from an economic point of view, but also culturally important for Amazonian communities. All this from a biotechnological approach that focuses on sustainable, innovative solutions adapted to the local environment.
With this type of initiative, the UIS reaffirms its commitment to frontier research, rural development and biodiversity conservation, bringing science directly to the heart of the Colombian territory.
