Phosphorus-Solubilizing Bacteria Improve Maize Growth in Low-P Soils of Sub-Saharan Africa
Keywords:
phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria, maize, biofertilizer, low-P soils, phosphorus uptake, Sub-Saharan AfricaAbstract
Phosphorus deficiency is a major constraint in many African soils. This study investigated the effectiveness of indigenous phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) isolated from maize rhizospheres in enhancing phosphorus availability and plant performance. Three PSB strains (identified as Bacillus megaterium, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Enterobacter cloacae) were applied to maize in pot and field trials under low-P conditions.
Results showed a significant increase in available soil P (up to 63%) and biomass yield (up to 40%) in PSB-inoculated treatments compared to controls. Root architecture improvements and increased phosphorus uptake efficiency were also observed. The findings confirm the potential of native PSB as a sustainable biofertilization strategy.
