Application of microbial communities as an experimental model for improving the yield of sunflower (Helianthus annuus) and corn (Zea mays)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70099/BJ/2025.02.04.6Keywords:
Azospirillum, biomass, bacterial strains, plant growth, Pseudomonas, Rhizobium, degraded soilsAbstract
Soils degraded by poor agricultural practices represent a persistent problem in Panama and worldwide. This study evaluated the effect of plant growth-promoting bacterial strains on sunflower (Helianthus annuus) and corn (Zea mays) seedlings under controlled conditions, aiming to improve their vegetative development. Bacterial strains were isolated from various environmental samples, and eight isolates were confirmed through phenotypic and biochemical tests. These isolates were applied in ten treatments by spraying the crops, using three replicates per treatment. The evaluation was based on parameters such as plant height, root length, and biomass. The strains of Rhizobium, Azospirillum, and Pseudomonas showed the most pronounced positive effects on plant growth. Overall, the use of specific beneficial bacterial strains applied to degraded soils represents a sustainable alternative that enhances vegetative development by approximately 50%, reduces the need for agrochemicals, and promotes environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
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