Microbial Biostimulants from Parthenium hysterophorus L. Rhizosphere: A Novel Approach for Improving drought Resistance in Tomato Crops

Author: Ankita Singh and Neeraj Kumar Dubey

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Abstract

This research delves into the realm of sustainable agriculture by exploring the potential of microbial biostimulants derived from the rhizosphere of Parthenium hysterophorus L. for augmenting drought resistance in tomato crops. As climate change intensifies and water scarcity becomes a pressing concern in agriculture, innovative strategies are imperative to enhance crop resilience. The study investigates the diverse microbial communities inhabiting the rhizosphere of Parthenium hysterophorus L. and their symbiotic interactions with tomato plants. Through comprehensive analysis and experimentation, the research aims to identify specific microbial strains with biostimulant properties that contribute to the improvement of drought tolerance in tomatoes. The novel approach of utilizing Parthenium hysterophorus L. rhizospheric microbes as biostimulants represents a sustainable and eco-friendly solution to mitigate the adverse effects of water scarcity on crop productivity. The findings of this study hold promise for advancing agricultural practices and fostering resilience in tomato cultivation in the face of changing environmental conditions

Keywords

Parthenium Hysterophorus L., Rhizospheric microbes, Microbial biostimulants, Drought resistance, Tomato crops, Sustainable agriculture

Conclusion

Morphological and Physiological Characteristics: The morphological and physiological characteristics of selected PGPR strains were meticulously documented. Strains exhibited diverse shapes, Gram staining reactions, and motility patterns, contributing to their unique identification. Molecular confirmation through PCR amplification of the 16S rRNA gene validated the identity of each strain, ensuring precision in subsequent phases. Mass Cultivation of PGPR Strains: Mass cultivation of PGPR strains (PGPR_01 to PGPR_50) involved optimizing growth conditions for each strain. Cultural and biochemical characteristics were monitored, providing insights into their viability for subsequent applications. The table delineates strain-specific attributes, aiding in the selection of robust candidates for further study. Carrier-Based Inoculum Development: The development of carrier-based inoculum is a critical step in ensuring efficient delivery of PGPR strains to plants. Different carriers, including peat, vermicompost, and biochar, were utilized to create effective inoculants. Microbial count, carrier type, and other parameters were systematically recorded, establishing a foundation for successful inoculation. Inoculation into Soil for Drought Tolerance: PGPR-inoculated tomato plants demonstrated enhanced drought tolerance compared to control groups. Physiological responses, such as maintained photosynthetic rates under water-deficit conditions, showcased the resilience conferred by PGPR. Significant increases in fruit yield in the inoculated plants underscore the potential of PGPR in mitigating the adverse effects of drought stress. Comprehensive Data Analysis: •The data analysis revealed a correlation between specific morphological and physiological traits of PGPR strains and their efficacy in enhancing drought tolerance. •Carrier-based inoculum data provided valuable insights into the preparation methods that yielded higher microbial counts, indicating superior inoculum quality. •Physiological responses of tomato plants post-inoculation highlighted the practical implications of employing PGPR in real-world agricultural scenarios. Implications for Sustainable Agriculture: The findings contribute to the development of sustainable agricultural practices, offering eco-friendly solutions to mitigate the impacts of water scarcity on crop production. PGPR-mediated drought tolerance enhancement presents a viable and practical approach for addressing challenges associated with changing environmental dynamics. The study lays a foundation for further research into the optimization of PGPR applications in diverse crops and agroecological contexts

References

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How to cite this article

Ankita Singh and Neeraj Kumar Dubey (2024). Microbial Biostimulants from Parthenium hysterophorus L. Rhizosphere: A Novel Approach for Improving drought Resistance in Tomato Crops. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(11): 01-08