Synergistic eco-physiological response of biochar and Paenibacillus lentimorbus application on chickpea growth and soil under drought stress

Abstract

This study aims to develop an eco-compatible soil amendment employing maize-stalk-derived biochar in conjunction with plant-beneficial rhizobacteria, Paenibacillus lentimorbus (B-30488) to improve soil properties and chickpea growth under drought conditions. Our results unveiled significant alterations in soil physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, and culturable microbial diversity on the application of B-30488+Biochar treatment. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the porous structure of biochar, facilitating efficient colonization by B-30488. Under drought conditions, the synergistic application of biochar and B-30488 substantially enhanced chickpea growth as indicated by improved biochemical and physiological status, root architecture, and anatomy. Additionally, phytohormone [Indole acetic acid (IAA), cytokinin (CK), jasmonic acid (JA), and salicylic acid (SA)] and gene expression [glutathione S-transferase (GST), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT) and ACC oxidase (ACO)] analyses affirmed their regulatory role in maintaining cellular homeostasis during drought stress. These findings underscore the multifaceted role of the synergistic application of B-30488 and Biochar, offering a sustainable strategy for agriculture and stress resilience.