Peer-reviewed research article on PGPR as viable alternatives to chemical fertilizers/pesticides. Covers PGPR mechanisms (phytohormone production: IAA, gibberellins, ethylene; phosphate solubilization; nitrogen fixation; siderophore production), biocontrol agents against phytopathogens, applications in various crop systems (maize, wheat, rice, legumes, banana), and evidence of yield improvement compared to uninoculated soils using sustainable agriculture approaches.
Complete methodology for isolating free-living nitrogen-fixing Azotobacter (oval/spherical, motile, gram-negative) and phosphate-solubilizing Phosphobacteria (Bacillus megaterium) from soil samples via serial dilution. Includes biochemical tests (citrate, catalase, urease), growth on selective media (Ashby’s agar, Pikovskaya’s medium), mass production using bioreactors (fermentation 4-9 days, 10⁸-10⁹ cells/mL), carrier formulation, and biofertilizer preparation.
Complete laboratory protocol for rhizobia isolation including plant trap method, nodule collection at flowering, surface sterilization procedures (ethanol/sodium hypochlorite), YEMA medium culturing, purification via streak plate method, confirmatory tests (Congo Red absorption, Peptone-Glucose), cultural characteristics assessment, and physiological tolerance testing (temperature, salt, pH, phosphorus solubilization).
Detailed study of rhizosphere (soil surrounding roots) and phyllosphere (leaf surface) as microbial habitats. Covers rhizosphere microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes), factors affecting microbial populations (root proximity, temperature, soil type, plant age), rhizosphere-to-soil ratio (RS ratio), plant growth promotion mechanisms, phyllosphere microorganisms, and biocontrol agents including nitrogen-fixing and phosphate-solubilizing microbes.
Comprehensive project report on Azolla (aquatic fern) cultivation as sustainable green manure and animal fodder. Covers Anabaena azollae symbiosis (25 kg N/ha fixation), cultivation techniques (pit/field/nursery methods), production efficiency optimization (50-400 g/m²/day), nutritional value (25-35% protein), cost-benefit analysis (₹1,800 setup), practical implementation in paddy fields, and multiple uses as biofertilizer, livestock feed, and bio-scavenger.