At Dalus Capital, we are committed to investing in transformative solutions that address Latin America’s most pressing challenges. That’s why I’m excited to announce our recent investment in Puna Bio, an innovative biotechnology company from Argentina that leverages extremophile microorganisms to enhance crop yields and restore degraded soils.
The future of agriculture is at a critical juncture. By 2050, food production must increase by 60% to meet the demands of a growing global population, yet 90% of the world’s soil could be degraded. Traditional fertilizers and chemical inputs contribute to soil depletion, water pollution, and high carbon emissions. In fact, synthetic fertilizer production, derived from fossil fuels, is one of the largest sources of agricultural carbon emissions.
Puna Bio offers a sustainable alternative. Its non-GMO biological solutions provide a scalable, eco-friendly substitute for synthetic fertilizers, increasing productivity while improving soil health.
What sets Puna Bio apart is its unique methodology. The company harnesses extremophiles—microorganisms that thrive in extreme environments—sourced from Argentina’s La Puna desert, the driest and highest in the world, located more than 3,500 meters above sea level. These microbes, some of which trace their lineage back 3.5 billion years, naturally enhance nutrient absorption, drought resistance, and crop resilience.
Puna Bio’s first products—Kunza (for soybeans, cotton, and beans) and Kanzama (for wheat and barley)—are already available in Argentina and have been applied across more than 300,000 hectares. The company is now planning international expansion, beginning with the U.S., Brazil, and Paraguay, where it has already made regulatory progress. The growing demand for sustainable agricultural solutions is driving adoption.
We have invested in Puna Bio’s Series A round, which has been led by Corteva, a US-based, publicly traded, global pure-play agriculture company. With the resources from this round, and the continued support of both new and existing investors, we believe Puna Bio is well-positioned to scale globally. The predominantly female founding team, with its deep expertise in biotechnology, research, and commercial strategy, is uniquely positioned to execute this global expansion.
This AgTech investment aligns with our vision of climate-resilient solutions that generate both financial returns and positive environmental impact. By replacing chemical fertilizers with nature-powered solutions, Puna Bio is not only boosting yields but also ensuring that farming remains viable in a warming world, while reducing carbon emissions from the production of synthetic fertilizers.
We are thrilled to support Puna Bio as they redefine what’s possible in sustainable agriculture. If you’re an investor, industry partner, or farmer interested in learning more, let’s connect.
