Microorganisms and Carrier Molecules used in Biofertilizer Formulations

Abstract

Rhizobacteria with plant growth promoting potential are used widely for agricultural use. They have been used as supplements to chemical fertilizers. Cyanobacteria, nitrogen fixing bacteria, phosphate mineralizing bacteria, and potassium solubilizing microorganisms have been used as biofertilizers for different crops. The survival of these rhizobacteria in soil is affected by number of abiotic as well as biotic factors that limits the growth of rhizobacteria. To enhance the survival rate of rhizobacteria in soil and to enhance their viability and efficiency, the bacteria is mixed with carrier material or additive to increase their activity. Carrier molecule enhances the adhesion of bacteria to the plant roots. The processing of bacteria with carrier molecule ensures easy handling and processing or agricultural use. Addition of additive molecule to the bacterial culture provides excellent survival rate and slow cell release at different soil pH. Different additive molecules used as carrier molecules are discussed in this article.