Endophytic microorganisms that reside within plant tissues hold immense, yet largely untapped potential for enhancing plant growth and bolstering resilience against both biotic and abiotic stresses. In this study, twenty bacterial endophytes were retrieved from the soybean plants and underwent in vitro assessment for zinc solubilization and siderophores production. Among these strains, one isolate labeled as PSSI3 was identified as Pseudomonas moraviensis through 16S rRNA sequencing, exhibited the most significant growth-promoting qualities. PSSI3 endowed with multiple PGP attributes viz., zinc (8.76±0.17µg/mL), phosphorus (315±11.35 µg/mL), and potassium solubilization (315±11.35 µg/mL), siderophore production (63.06±2.29% unit), nitrogen fixation, HCN and ammonia production, biofilm formation, indole acetic acid (7.26±0.26 µg/mL) and gibberellic acid (20.45±0.73 µg/mL) synthesis. It also demonstrated biocontrol efficacy against fungal pathogens. Antibiotic sensitivity, carbon utilization, and tolerance to polyethylene glycol were examined. PSSI3 when introduced significantly enhanced soybean seedling growth, highlighting the potential of endophytes for impactful applications in crop production.

Endophytes, Nutrient solubilization, Plant Growth Promotion, Soybean, Pseudomonas moraviensis

This comprehensive investigation sheds light on the multifaceted mechanisms employed by Pseudomonas moraviensis PSSI3 to foster the growth of soybean seedlings. By delving into both direct and indirect pathways, this research illuminates the intricate ways in which endophytic bacteria, particularly PSSI3, can significantly enhance the productivity and health of plants. Moreover, the utilization of such beneficial endophytes not only augments plant growth but also plays a pivotal role in enhancing soil quality and fertility.

Bundela V., Kukreti B., Khan A., Kumar A., Singh T. and Singh A.V. (2023). Evaluation of Soybean-based Endophytic Bacterium Pseudomonas moraviensis PSSI3 for its Multifarious Plant Growth Promoting Potential in Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 267-277.