Exploring the Potential of Purple Non-Sulfur Bacteria Strains A3-5 and F3-3 in Sustainable Agriculture: A Study on Nutrient Solubilization, Plant Growth Promotion, and Acidic Stress Tolerance
Journal
JOURNAL OF SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT NUTRITION
Journal Volume
25
Journal Issue
2
Start Page
2294
End Page
2313
ISSN
0718-9508
Date Issued
2025-06
Author(s)
Abstract
PurposeIn sustainable agriculture, microbial allies like purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) are becoming increasingly important. This study investigates the potential of PNSB strains A3-5 and F3-3, highlighting their unique abilities in nutrient solubilization, fixation, and production of plant growth-promoting substances.MethodsThe study investigates the metabolic capabilities of the strains, including the synthesis of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), nitrogen (N2) fixation, and the solubilization of essential minerals such as phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), and zinc (Zn), as well as siderophore production. Additionally, the strains' abilities were tested in hydroponic systems with rice seedlings under normal (pH = 4.70) and acidic (pH = 3.64) conditions to evaluate their potential for promoting plant growth across different pH levels.ResultsBoth the individual strains and their combined culture demonstrated beneficial traits conducive to plant growth. The A3-5 strain exhibited superior performance in Zn solubilization (solubilization index of 2.86), IAA production (159.1 mu g/mL), and siderophore production (2.72 cm). Conversely, the F3-3 strain demonstrated a superior ability for N2-fixation (9.33 mg/L) and P solubilization capacity (20 mg/L). The mixed culture amalgamated the highest siderophore production (3.09 cm) and 5-ALA production (6.10 mu g/mL). Notably, the F3-3 strain of PNSB significantly enhanced both root and shoot growth under normal and acidic conditions, with the most remarkable effect being a 189% surge in fresh shoot weight under acidic conditions.ConclusionF3-3 strain, with its robust performance and plant growth enhancement, is promising for sustainable farming. Despite mixed culture's higher yield of beneficial compounds, F3-3 holds more practical potential. However, as the study was conducted in a controlled environment, field studies are necessary to confirm these findings and understand the strain's real-world performance.
Subjects
5-aminolevulinic acid
Indole-3-acetic acid
Nutrient solubilization
Plant growth-promoting substances
Siderophore production
Sustainable farming
SDGs
Publisher
Springer
Type
journal article