Biofertilizer Production using Phosphate-solubilizing Pseudomonas spp. Isolated from Rhizosphere Soil: Towards Indigenous Biofertilizer for Enhanced Crop Productivity in Katsina, Nigeria

Abstract

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study offers an approach to sustainable agriculture by isolating and identifying phosphate-solubilizing Pseudomonas species from the rhizosphere soil of Wagini ward, Katsina state, for the production of biofertilizers. The research highlights the significant phosphate-solubilizing activity of these native strains, which enhances phosphorus availability to plants through the secretion of organic acids and enzymes. By demonstrating the positive effects of these Pseudomonas-based biofertilizers on maize, beans, and millet, this study provides valuable insights into the development of eco-friendly, cost-effective biofertilizers tailored to local agroecosystems, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria. Full Abstract The utilization of biofertilizers holds promise as a sustainable approach to enhance soil fertility and crop productivity while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers. Beyond nitrogen, phosphorus is integral to various aspects of plant metabolism, including cell division, growth, development, sugar breakdown, and nuclear transport. The present study focuses on isolating Pseudomonas as phosphate-solubilizing bacteria from the rhizosphere soil to produce biofertilizer. Ten samples of rhizosphere soil samples were collected from agricultural fields in Wagini ward, Batsari Local Government area, Katsina state. The isolation and identification of Pseudomonas species from the soil samples were conducted using standard microbiological techniques, followed by screening for plant growth-promoting traits (phosphate solubilization). Subsequently, selected Pseudomonas species exhibiting robust phosphate solubilization were assessed for their efficacy in biofertilizer production, after which the produced biofertilizer was tested on maize, beans, and millet. The formulated biofertilizers demonstrated remarkable positive effects on the tested crops’ growth compared to those that were not treated with the Pseudomonas-based biofertilizer after seven days of cultivation under controlled conditions. The results of this study revealed that the isolated Pseudomonas strains exhibited significant phosphate-solubilizing activity. This indicates their potential to release phosphorus from insoluble forms, making it more accessible to plants. The solubilization activity was attributed to the secretion of organic acids and enzymes by the Pseudomonas strains, which can dissolve complex phosphates. This study underscores the importance of tacking native microbial resources for the development of eco-friendly and cost-effective biofertilizers tailored to local agroecosystems, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural intensification and food security in Nigeria.