Microbial Inoculants for Mineral Nutrient Solubilization and Mobilization
Akhila P. Subhash*
Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India
Nandana, M.S.
Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India
Sivapriya, S.L.
Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India
Anith, K.N.
Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India
DOI: NIL
Keywords: Biofertilizers, Mobilization, Nutrient solubilization, Plant growth
Abstract
Nutrient availability is an essential factor that determines growth of crop plants. Phosphorous, potassium, zinc and silicon are some of the essential nutrients that are required for the proper growth and development of plants, but these nutrients are found in nature as insoluble or complex forms. Increased uses of conventional synthetic fertilizers in agriculture have an adverse impact on both environment and living organisms. Hence, development of better alternatives is essential. Biofertilizers, being eco-friendly, cost effective and non-toxic, serve as a good substitute for expensive and harmful synthetic chemical fertilizers. Certain microorganisms can convert the insoluble form of nutrients to soluble-available forms, making the soil rich and suitable for proper growth of plants. They not only improve soil fertility and productivity by adding nutrients to the soil, but also protect plants from several biotic and abiotic stresses. Therefore, application of biofertilizers (microbial inoculants) made of nutrient solubilizers is a promising technology for future sustainable farming systems.
Downloads
not found
Reference
Barker, W.W., Welch, S.A., Chu, S., Baneld, J.F., 1998. Experimental observations of the effects of bacteria on aluminosilicate weathering. Am. Mineral. 83, 1551-1563.
Kawalekar, J.S., 2013. Role of biofertilizers and biopesticides for sustainable agriculture. J. Bio. Innov. 2, 73-78.
Rashid, M.I., Mujawar, L.H., Shahzad, T., Almeelbi, T., Ismail, I.M.I., Oves, M., 2016. Bacteria and fungi can contribute to nutrients bioavailability and aggregate formation in degraded soils. Microbiol. Res. 183, 26-41.