Evaluation of synergistic effects of bacterial and cyanobacterial strains as biofertilizers for wheat

An investigation was undertaken to screen, select and evaluate a set of bacterial and cyanobacterial isolates from the wheat rhizosphere for their role as biofertilizers in wheat. From an initial set of 23 cyanobacterial strains and 110 bacterial isolates from wheat rhizospheric soil, 3 bacterial and 3 cyanobacterial strains were selected based on their plant growth promoting potential under laboratory and controlled greenhouse conditions. In vitro compatibility studies revealed positive interactions among the six strains. Pot experiments were conducted with wheat variety HD 2687, with a total of 51 treatments, along with recommended fertilizer controls. Various combinations of the selected set of three bacterial (PW1, PW5 and PW7) and three cyanobacterial isolates (CW1, CW2 and CW3) were used along with 1/3 N and full dose of P and K fertilizers. Significant enhancement in the soil microbiological (Dehydrogenase activity, FDA hydrolase, Alkaline phosphatase and microbial biomass) and plant growth/yield parameters were recorded. Observations revealed a two-fold increase in panicle weight in selected combinations (PW1+PW7+CW3; PW1+ CW1+CW2/CW1+CW3; CW2+CW3), as compared to control treatment involving full dose of chemical fertilizers. Such combinations, which also provided N savings of 40–80 kg N/ha are being further evaluated in field experiments. This study for the first time illustrated the positive and dynamic interactions among bacterial and cyanobacterial strains and their promise in integrated nutrient management of wheat crop.