Unveiling Plant-Beneficial Function as Seen in Bacteria Genes from Termite Mound Soil

Abstract

The use of termite mound soils in enhancing soil fertility and plant growth, especially in areas with poor soil conditions, has been recommended by many research studies. Most of these recommendations are, however, based on the high nutrient levels in termite mound soils. Thus, this study aimed to verify if plant growth–promoting bacteria in termite soils also play a role in improving plant growth. To achieve our purpose, we made an effort in characterizing the bacterial genes contributing to plant-beneficial function in termite mound soils with the shotgun metagenomics method. Results from this study revealed the presence of bacterial genes involved in the production of siderophores, acetoin, trehalose, phenazine, butanediol, 4-hydroxybenzoate, chitinase, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase, quorum sensing molecules, and mineral phosphate solubilization. In addition, we identified bacterial genes involved in the manufacturing of catalases, peroxidases, and superoxide dismutases that confer resistance to oxidative stresses in plants. Bacterial genes responsible for glycine-betaine production and cold and heat shock tolerance which helps in withstanding abiotic stress, were also present. With these plant growth–promoting traits observed in bacteria from termite mound soils, we recommend the isolation and the use of termite mound soil bacteria both in greenhouse and field trials to further ascertain their potential in improving soil fertility and crop production.