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.
Biographical encyclopedia article on Russian-born American microbiologist Selman Waksman who pioneered antibiotic research and discovered streptomycin, the first effective treatment for tuberculosis (1952 Nobel Prize). Covers life journey from Russia to USA, soil microbiology focus, discovery of 18 antibiotics, establishment of Institute of Microbiology at Rutgers, and lasting impact on modern medicine.
Detailed laboratory procedures for Azospirillum isolation from rhizosphere soil using Okons Nfb semi-solid medium, purification techniques, and comprehensive morphological characterization including Gram reaction, capsule staining, microcyst formation, shape analysis, colony characteristics, and pleomorphism variations observed in different culture conditions.
Comprehensive laboratory protocols for evaluating biofertilizer efficiency including nitrogenase activity measurement via acetylene reduction method, phosphate solubilizing bacteria screening using Pikovskaya’s medium, phosphorus-dissolving capacity quantification through colorimetry, microbial viability testing (CFU/mL), and multifunctional bacteria evaluation (ACC deaminase, siderophore, IAA secretion)