Research Article
Open Access
Optimization of growth conditions For zinc Solubilizing
Plant Growth associated Bacteria and Fungi
Shabnam S Shaikh and Meenu S Saraf*
Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad
*Corresponding author: Meenu S Saraf, Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Tel: +91-79-26303225; Fax: +91-79-26851704; E-mail:
@
Received: 02 February, 2017; Accepted: 03 March, 2017; Published: 17 March, 2017
Citation: Shaikh SS, Saraf MS (2017) Optimization of growth conditions For zinc Solubilizing Plant Growth associated Bacteria and Fungi. J Adv Res Biotech 2(1): 1-9. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15226/2475-4714/2/1/00115
Zinc (Zn) is an essential element necessary for plant, humans
and microorganisms required in little quantities to compose a
complete array of physiological functions. Rhizospheric microbes
are known to influence plant growth by various direct and indirect
mechanisms and have some additional properties such as multiple
metal solubilization. In the current investigation, we have isolated
zinc solubilizing microbes and optimized their growth condition for
further application in agriculture industry. Seven isolates amongst
which four fungi and three fungi were studied for their Plant growth
promoting ability, Zinc solubilization and optimization of growth.
Isolate MSSZB4 and MSS-ZF3 were showing significant Plant
promoting abilities and shows best optimization with 0.1% ZnO
concentration, dextrose as carbon source, Ammonium Sulphate as
nitrogen source and the optimum pH and Temperature was found
between 6 to 6.5 and 28 to 30˚C respectively. The present study
demonstrates the optimum growth conditions for zinc solubilizing
microbes, which can further be used for their potential applications,
such as biofortification and bioremediations.
Keywords: Zinc; Solubilization; Plant growth promoting properties; Optimization
Keywords: Zinc; Solubilization; Plant growth promoting properties; Optimization
Introduction
Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria can affect plant growth
by different direct and indirect mechanisms [1]. PGPR influence
direct growth promotion of plants by fixing atmospheric nitrogen,
solubilizing insoluble phosphates, secreting hormones such as
IAA, GAs, and Kinetics besides ACC deaminase production, which
helps in regulation of ethylene. Induced systemic resistance (ISR),
antibiosis, competition for nutrients, parasitism, production
of metabolites (hydrogen cyanide, siderophores) suppressive
to deleterious rhizobacteria are some of the mechanism that
indirectly benefit plant growth. Zinc (Zn) is an essential element
necessary for plant, humans and microorganisms [2,3]. Human
and other living things require Zn throughout requires in little
quantities to compose a complete array of physiological functions.
Zinc is a vital mineral of “exceptional biological and public health
importance” [4]. Furthermore 100 specific enzymes are found in
which zinc serves as structural ions in transcription factors and
is stored and transferred in metallothioneinsand typically the 2nd
most abundant transition metal in organisms, after iron and it is
the only metal which appears in all enzyme classes [3].
Zinc is important micronutrient for plant which plays numerous functions in life cycle of plants [5]. Crop growth, vigor, maturity and yield are very much reliant upon essential micronutrient (Zn). To address the problem of Zn deficiency, micronutrient biofortification of grain crop is increased interest in developing countries [6]. Several approaches have been projected and practiced for fortification of cereals [7]. Enhancing Zn concentration of cereal grain has been recognized as an approach of tackling human Zn deficiency [8]. Plant scientists are formulating different methodologies to tackle the Zn deficiencies in crop through fertilizes applications and/ or by means of plant breeding strategies to augment the adsorption and or bioavailability of Zn in grain crops [6]. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) is multifunction microbes functioning in sustainable agriculture. PGPR are a diverse group of bacteria that can be found in the rhizosphere on root surfaces as well as in association with roots [9]. These bacteria move around from the bulk soil to the living plant rhizosphere and antagonistically colonize the rhizosphere and roots of plant [10]. Soil bacteria which are important for plant growth are termed as plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) [10]. In addition to phosphate mobilization they are responsible to play key role in carrying out the bioavailability of soil phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc and silicate to plant roots [11]. Viable application of PGPR are been tested and are repeatedly promising; however, good understanding of microbial interactions will significantly raise the success rate of field application [12].
Zinc is important micronutrient for plant which plays numerous functions in life cycle of plants [5]. Crop growth, vigor, maturity and yield are very much reliant upon essential micronutrient (Zn). To address the problem of Zn deficiency, micronutrient biofortification of grain crop is increased interest in developing countries [6]. Several approaches have been projected and practiced for fortification of cereals [7]. Enhancing Zn concentration of cereal grain has been recognized as an approach of tackling human Zn deficiency [8]. Plant scientists are formulating different methodologies to tackle the Zn deficiencies in crop through fertilizes applications and/ or by means of plant breeding strategies to augment the adsorption and or bioavailability of Zn in grain crops [6]. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) is multifunction microbes functioning in sustainable agriculture. PGPR are a diverse group of bacteria that can be found in the rhizosphere on root surfaces as well as in association with roots [9]. These bacteria move around from the bulk soil to the living plant rhizosphere and antagonistically colonize the rhizosphere and roots of plant [10]. Soil bacteria which are important for plant growth are termed as plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) [10]. In addition to phosphate mobilization they are responsible to play key role in carrying out the bioavailability of soil phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc and silicate to plant roots [11]. Viable application of PGPR are been tested and are repeatedly promising; however, good understanding of microbial interactions will significantly raise the success rate of field application [12].
Material and Methods
Physical and chemical characterization of soil sample
Three soil samples were collected from rhizosphere region
of Agriculturall and were collected from the different region of
Gujarat. Physical characteristics, various chemical tests likes
alinity, pH, total carbon, phosphates, total dissolved solids,
edoxpotential (mV), conductivity, chlorides, Sulphate, potassium
nitrates as well as micro metals present in the soil like Few were
also characterize for soil samples.
Qualitative and quantitative phosphate solubilization
Phosphate Solubilization was studied using tricalcium
phosphateas in soluble phosphate. The strains were
spotinoculated on Pikovskaya’s agar medium. The plates were
incubated with 30 ˚C for 48 to 72 h for bacteria and 3 to 6 days
for fungi. The clear halo around the colony indicates the zone of
phosphate Solubilization due to the production of organic acids as
possible mechanism of the phosphate solubilization. Quantitative
phosphate Solubilization was carried out in liquid Pikovskaya’s
medium in 250 ml flasks for14d.
The concentration of the soluble phosphate in the supernatant
was estimated every 7dayby Stannous Chloride (SnCl2.2HO)
method [13]. A simultaneous change in the pH was also recorded
in the supernatant on Systronics digital pH meter (pH system
361).
Qualitative and quantitative production of Siderophore
Siderophore production was checked by using Chrome azurols
(CAS) agar medium by the method described by Schwyn and
Neilands, [14]. Actively growing cultures were spot inoculated on
the CAS blue agar plate. These plates were then incubated at 37
˚C for 48 to 72 h for Bacteria and at 28 °C for 3-6 days for fungi.
Formation of yellow-orange halo around the colony indicated
production and release of the siderophores on the agar plate.
Indole Acetic Acid production
Auxin production was studied in trypton yeast medium.
Bacteria were grown in 50 ml yeast extract broth supplemented
with 50 mgL-1 of L-Tryptophan and incubated in dark on orbital
shaker at 200 rpm for 72 h. Hormone production was checked in
supernatant using Salkowsky’s reagent method [15]. The amount
of IAA produced was calculated from the standard graph of pure
indole acetic acid. Study was carried out every 24 h for up to 120
h and the pattern of IAA production was recorded.
Ammonia and HCN production
Each strain was tested for the production of ammonia in
peptone water. Cultures (100 μl inoculum with approximately 3
x 108 c.f.u. ml -1) were inoculated in 10 ml peptone water and
these plates were then incubated at
37°C for 48 to 72 h for Bacteria and at 28°C for 3-6 days
for fungi. After Incubation Nessler’s reagent (1 ml) was added to
each tube. Development of brown to yellow colour was recorded
as a positive test for ammonia production [16]. Production of
hydrocyanic acid (HCN) was checked on nutrient agar slants
streaked with the test isolates. Filter paper strips dipped in picric
acid and 2 % sodium carbonate were inserted in the tubes. HCN
production was checked based on changes in colour from yellow
to light brown, moderate brown or strong brown of the yellow
filter paper strips [17].
Exopolysaccharide (EPS) production
Normally EPS production is studied in basal medium of all
different organisms. Ascarbohydrate source 5% of sucrose is
to be added as polysaccharide in to the medium [18]. 10 ml of
culture suspension was collected after 5-6 days and centrifuge
at 30,000 rpm for 45 minutes add thrice the volume of chilled
acetone. EPS will be separated from the mixture in the form of a
slimy precipitates.
Zinc solubilization
The BTG medium was mixed with thorough stirring to
obtain a homogeneous suspension. Experiments in liquid culture
were performed in a defined Mineral Salt Medium (MSM), with
glucose (10 g) as the sole carbon source and, when required,
0.1% insoluble zincoxide [19]. The dilution medium for viable
counts was sterile NaCl solution, 8 g /liter. All glass ware used
was soaked for 1 h in 1 M HCl and rinsed three times in distilled
deionized water prior to use. Inoculation was carried out by using
pure colony of a bacteria and fungi. It was inoculated to medium
and allowed to grow. (For Bacteria at 37 ˚ C and for fungi at 28 ˚
C) for 14 days respectively [20]. The Zone of Solublization was
Observed and measured in millimeter (mm).
Zinc solubilization in PVK (Pikovskaya’s medium)
Zinc solubilization was checked using zinc oxide as insoluble
zinc source. Spot inoculation of the isolates was done in the
centre of the Pikovskaya’s agar medium. These plates were then
incubated at 37 ˚ C for 48 to 72 h for Bacteria and at 28oC for
3-6 days for fungi. Phosphate solubilization was checked in the
form of a clear halo formed around the colony representing the
production of organic acids as a possible mechanism of the zinc
solubilization. Quantitative zinc solubilization was carried out in
liquid Pikovskaya’s medium in 250 ml flasks for 14 d [21].
Optimization of Media and Growth Condition for Zinc
Solubilization
Zinc solubilizing ability of bacterial strains
was tested in four different types of agar media. Composition
of different media is given in table. Among them PVK
(Pikovskaya’smedium) media with 0.1% Zinc Oxide was selected
based on proper zone formation, opacity of medium and growth
of isolates [21].
Effect of various Zinc source on efficiency of Zinc
Solubilization
Effect of various Zinc sources like Zinc Carbonate,
ZincSulphate and Zinc Oxide, were studied in PVK Broth. The
isolates were checked for solubilization activity in PVK broth
amended with different Zinc source. Inoculation was carried out
by using pure colony of a bacteria and fungi. It was inoculated to
medium and allowed to grow. (for Bacteria at 37°C and for fungi
at 28 ˚ C) for 14 days respectively [20]. The Zone of Solubilization
was observed and measured in millimetre (mm). Zinc oxide was
selected as the optimum zinc source for the further optimization,
based on proper zone formation and opacity of the medium.
Effect of different concentration of Zinc Oxide on efficiency
of Zinc Solubilization
Effect of different concentration of Zinc
Oxide was added in the PVK agar medium which was 0.1%, 0.2%,
0.3%, 0.4% and 0.5%. Nitrogen sources like (NH4)2SO4, Urea,
Casein, and NaNO3 were studied in PVK Broth. Inoculation was
carried out by using pure colony of a bacteria and fungi. It was
inoculated to medium and allowed to grow. (for Bacteria at 37 ˚ C
and for fungi at 28 ˚ C) for 14 days respectively [20]. The zone of
solubilization was Observed and measured in millimetre (mm).
Effect of various Carbon sources on efficiency of Zinc
solubilization
Effect of various carbon sources like glucose,
fructose, sucrose, lactose, glycerol and xylose, were studied
in PVK agar plate. The isolates were checked for solubilization
activity in PVK agar medium amended with 0.1% Zinc Oxide.
Inoculation was carried out by using pure colony of a bacteria
and fungi. It was inoculated to medium and allowed to grow. (For
Bacteria at 37 ˚ C and for fungi at 28 ˚ C) for 14 days respectively
[20]. The Zone of Solubilization was Observed and measured in
millimetre (mm).
Effect of various Nitrogen sources on efficiency of
Zinc solubilization
Effect of various Nitrogen sources like
(NH4)2SO4, Urea, Casein, and NaNO3 were studied in PVK Broth.
The isolates were checked for solubilization activity in PVK broth
amended with 0.1% Zinc Oxide. Inoculation was carried out by
using pure colony of a bacteria and fungi. It was inoculated to
medium and allowed to grow. (For Bacteria at 37 ˚ C and for fungi
at 28 ˚ C) for 14 days respectively [20]. The zone of solubilization
was Observed and measured in millimetre (mm).
Effect of temperature on efficiency of Zinc solubilization
Media composition to which the bacteria responded best was
used as substrate. Inoculation was carried out by using pure
colony of a bacterial grown on Basal medium of isolates and
allowed to grow and maintained at 8 ˚ C, 15 ˚ C, 28 ˚ C, Room
Temperature, 37 ˚ C, and 55 ˚ C for 14 days respectively [20]. The
zone of solubilization was observed and measured in millimetre
(mm).
Effect of pH on efficiency of Zinc Solubilization
Optimal media and temperature was used, but the pH of the media was
set at pH 4, pH 6,pH 6.5, pH 7, pH 9 using NaOH or HCl and grown
for 14 days respectively [20].The Zone of solubilization was
Observed and measured in millimetre (mm).
Effect of different Salinity on efficiency of Zinc
Solubilization
Optimal media and Conditions were used, but
the saline concentration was added as NaCl (0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%,
0.8% and 1%) and KCl (0.02%, 0.04%, 0.06%, 0.08% and 0.1%)
in the media was set and grown for 14 days respectively [20]. The
zone of solubilization was Observed and measured in millimetre
(mm).
Results and Discussion
Physical characterization of soil samples
Physical characteristics of all the different soil samples shows
that soil from rhizosphere was brown in colour and its texture
was granular to loamy. The chemical characterization of soil
samples is shown in (Table 1). The observed variation in the
pH could be due to heterogenous composition of soil at all the
three sites. Similar results were also reported by Amanul where
variations were observed in soil samples of different agricultural
soils [22]. Higher Organic and nitrogen content.
Isolation and Microbiological characterization of the
soil samples
Total 20 isolates from three soil samples were screened
for phosphate, zinc solubilization and giving maximum growth
(fast grower). Among them Seven isolates were selected (four
bacteria and three fungi) for further studies. They were purified
on their respective medium.
Qualitative and quantitative phosphate solubilization
Phosphate solubilization results show that all the seven
isolates were significant Phosphate solubilizers and showing
zone of phosphate solubilization on solid Pikovskyaya’s medium
after 3 days of incubation at 30 ± 2 ˚ C. Maximum zone was
observed in isolate MSS-ZF3 (49 mm). Significant zones were
also seen in MSS-ZF2 (45mm), MSS-ZB4(43 mm), MSS-ZF1 (40
mm), MSS-ZB2(35 mm) MSS-ZB1 (33 mm)and MSS-ZB3(30 mm)
after eight days of incubation (Figure 1).
Maximum TCP (Tricalcium phosphate) solubilization in liquid medium was observed in MSS-ZF3 (29 μg/ml) followed by MSS-ZF2 ((24 μg/ ml), MSS-ZB4 (37 μg/ ml), MSS-ZF1 (18 μg/
Maximum TCP (Tricalcium phosphate) solubilization in liquid medium was observed in MSS-ZF3 (29 μg/ml) followed by MSS-ZF2 ((24 μg/ ml), MSS-ZB4 (37 μg/ ml), MSS-ZF1 (18 μg/
Table 1: Influent and effluent characteristics
Parameters |
Sample 1 |
Sample 2 |
Sample 3 |
pH |
8.25 |
8.36 |
7.89 |
E.C |
0.21 |
0.17 |
0.15 |
Organic carbon (%) |
1.26 |
1.56 |
1.77 |
Available Nitrogen (%) |
0.10 |
0.13 |
0.15 |
P2O5(ppm) |
1.211 |
1.197 |
1.156 |
K2O(ppm) |
19 |
14 |
16 |
Available Fe (ppm) |
4.3 |
4.06 |
5.09 |
Available K (kg/hec) |
538 |
202 |
409 |
Available Zn (ppm) |
3.62 |
3.70 |
4.20 |
Available cu (ppm) |
1.00 |
1.14 |
1.19 |
Available Mn (ppm) |
3.62 |
3.70 |
4.02 |
Figure 1: Zinc solubilization by the selected isolates.
ml) and MSS-ZB2 (16 μg/ ml), MSS-ZB1 (12 μg/ ml) and MSSZB3
(10 μg/ ml) in 3.2). The result observed was that the isolates
showed maximum zone of solubilization on solid medium, are
also showing similar phosphate solubilization in liquid medium.
The pH of the broth having fungal isolates has been decreased
from 7.0 to 4.0. The observed result shows that in bacterial
culture there was no decrease in pH, but in all the fungal isolates
it shows the decrease in broth pH. The results showing no
correlation between Phosphate solubilization and pH reduction
are also published by many researchers (Tank and Saraf 2003).
This drop-in pH may also be an attribute of glucose utilization by
the isolates (Arora et al. 2008). Plant growth is frequently limited
by an insufficiency of phosphates, an important nutrient in plants
next to nitrogen. Although all isolates showed similar decline in
pH, 3.3 - 4.5, amount of phosphate solubilization was different in
different PGPR’s isolated. This indicates that there is no relation
between degree of phosphate solubilized and change in pH [13].
Qualitative and quantitative siderophore production
The universal assay described by Schwyn and Neilands was
used for the detection of siderophore by different microorganisms
(fungi and bacteria) in solid medium. Siderophore on solid CAS
blue agar plate shows a clear zone of decolourization representing
iron chelation by the isolate in the medium. Highest zone of dye
decolourization was observed in MSS-ZF3 (20 mm), MSS-F2 (18
mm), MSS-ZF1 (16 mm), MSS-ZB1(14 mm) and MSS-ZB3(10 mm)
after 120 h of Incubation. And no zone was observed in MSSZB2.
Siderophore was detected by the formation of orange halos
surrounding bacterial colonies on CAS agar plates after 48 hour
at 28 ˚ C [23].
Indole Acetic Acid Production
All the seven selected isolates showed significant production
of IAA. Highest IAA production was reported in MSS-ZF1 (44 μg/
ml), MSS-ZF2 (40 μg/ml), MSS-ZB1 (24 μg/ml), MSS-ZB2 (19 μg/
ml), MSS-ZF3 (18 μg/ml) and MSS-ZB4 (14 μg/ml). All the isolates
showed a continuous increase in the IAA production within the
incubation period of 6 days.
Different isolates showed different optimum incubation time for highest IAA production. It is estimated that about 80 % of soil bacteria possess IAA producing potential [24].Though reports reveal that IAA production reaches maximum after 120 h (5 d) of incubation many of our isolates did not follow this pattern and showed maximum IAA production even after 240 h (10 d) [25]. However, reports of other researchers showed that IAA production was not detected after 5 d. Though it is reported that there is continuous decrease in IAA production after reaching the peak production, this pattern was also followed by our isolates. IAA production curves of the isolates showed continuous increase and decrease up to 12 d. These types of curves are in agreement with the IAA production curves reported by Torres- Rubioet al [26,27]. The reason for such fluctuations could be the utilization of IAA by the cells as nutrient during late stationary phase or production of IAA degrading enzymes by the cells which are inducible enzymes in presence of IAA [26].
Different isolates showed different optimum incubation time for highest IAA production. It is estimated that about 80 % of soil bacteria possess IAA producing potential [24].Though reports reveal that IAA production reaches maximum after 120 h (5 d) of incubation many of our isolates did not follow this pattern and showed maximum IAA production even after 240 h (10 d) [25]. However, reports of other researchers showed that IAA production was not detected after 5 d. Though it is reported that there is continuous decrease in IAA production after reaching the peak production, this pattern was also followed by our isolates. IAA production curves of the isolates showed continuous increase and decrease up to 12 d. These types of curves are in agreement with the IAA production curves reported by Torres- Rubioet al [26,27]. The reason for such fluctuations could be the utilization of IAA by the cells as nutrient during late stationary phase or production of IAA degrading enzymes by the cells which are inducible enzymes in presence of IAA [26].
Ammonia and HCN production
Ammonia production was studied up to 42- 72 h of incubation
as per method given. Maximum concentration of ammonia
production was observed in isolates MSS-ZB4 (32 μg/ml)
followed by MSS-ZB3 (29μg/ml), MSS-ZB1 (27 μg/ml), MSS-ZF3
(24μg/ml), MSS-ZF2 (22μg/ml), MSS-ZSF1(21 μg/ml) and MSSZB2
(19 μg/ml).
its of PGPR’s which benefits the crop [25]. This accumulation of ammonia in soil may increase in pH creating alkaline condition of soil at pH 9-9.5. It suppresses the growth of certain fungi and nitrobacteria due to it potent inhibition effect. Christiansen et al. have reported that level of oxygen in aerobic conditions was same as the level of ammonia excretion under oxygen limiting conditions. However, Joseph et al. reported ammonia production in 95% of isolates of Bacillus followed by Pseudomonas (94.2%), Rhizobium (74.2%) and Azotobacter (45%) [3,4,7,29-32].
HCN production was checked in all isolates the results are showed in table 6. Presence or absence and intensity of HCN production can play a significant role in antagonistic potential of bacteria against phytopathogens. Similar results were also reported by Cattelan et al. who reported that production of cyanide was an important trait in a PGPT in controlling fungal diseases in wheat seedlings under in-vitro conditions. Chandra et al. reported production of HCN by the PGPR which was inhibitory to the growth of S. sclerotium. Kumar et al. also reported in vitro antagonism by HCN producing PGPR against sclerotia germination of M. phaseolina. Production of HCN along with siderophore production has been reported as the major cause of biocontrol activity for protection of Black pepper and ginger [30,33-35].
its of PGPR’s which benefits the crop [25]. This accumulation of ammonia in soil may increase in pH creating alkaline condition of soil at pH 9-9.5. It suppresses the growth of certain fungi and nitrobacteria due to it potent inhibition effect. Christiansen et al. have reported that level of oxygen in aerobic conditions was same as the level of ammonia excretion under oxygen limiting conditions. However, Joseph et al. reported ammonia production in 95% of isolates of Bacillus followed by Pseudomonas (94.2%), Rhizobium (74.2%) and Azotobacter (45%) [3,4,7,29-32].
HCN production was checked in all isolates the results are showed in table 6. Presence or absence and intensity of HCN production can play a significant role in antagonistic potential of bacteria against phytopathogens. Similar results were also reported by Cattelan et al. who reported that production of cyanide was an important trait in a PGPT in controlling fungal diseases in wheat seedlings under in-vitro conditions. Chandra et al. reported production of HCN by the PGPR which was inhibitory to the growth of S. sclerotium. Kumar et al. also reported in vitro antagonism by HCN producing PGPR against sclerotia germination of M. phaseolina. Production of HCN along with siderophore production has been reported as the major cause of biocontrol activity for protection of Black pepper and ginger [30,33-35].
Table 2: HCN production by the Isolates.(+ positive) and (– negative).
Isolates |
Result |
MSS-ZB1 |
+ |
MSS-ZB2 |
- |
MSS-ZB3 |
+++ |
MSS-ZB4 |
++ |
MSS-ZF1 |
- |
MSS-ZF2 |
- |
MSS-ZF3 |
- |
Table 3: pH change in the liquid medium.
Isolate |
2nd day pH |
4th day pH |
6th day pH |
MSS-ZB1 |
7.0 |
6.0 |
5.4 |
MSS-ZB2 |
6.9 |
6.1 |
5.1 |
MSS-ZB3 |
6.8 |
6.2 |
5.2 |
MSS-ZB4 |
7.0 |
6.3 |
5.3 |
MSS-ZF1 |
6.5 |
6.0 |
5.0 |
MSS-ZF2 |
6.5 |
5.9 |
4.9 |
MSS-ZF3 |
6.5 |
5.8 |
4.8 |
Exopolysaccharide (EPS) production by selected
isolates
From all the Seven culture, the three bacterial isolates shows
EPS Production, maximum amount of EPS production was
observed in isolate MSS-ZB1(44.5 mg/ ml) followed by MSSZB3
(30.5 mg/ ml) and MSS-ZB4(20.0 mg/ ml) after five days of
incubation.
Maximum of EPS production occurs during early stationary phase than in the late stationary of culture [18]. The highest EPS production was recorded in P. aeruginosa (226 μg/ ml) grown in nitrogen free medium followed by S. mutansand B. subtilis (220 and 206 μg/ ml respectively) in nitrogen free medium after 7 days of incubation at 37°C reported that production of EPS by Burkholderia gladioli IN-26 a strain of PGPR reduced bacterial speck on tomato. Similarly, Alami et al. reported that EPS produced by root associated saprophytic bacterium (rhizobacterium) PantoeaagglomeransYAS34 was associated with plant growth promotion of sunflower reported that Paenibacillus polymyxa produces a large amount of polysaccharide possessing high activity against crown rot disease caused by Aspergillus niger in plants[29,33,36].
Maximum of EPS production occurs during early stationary phase than in the late stationary of culture [18]. The highest EPS production was recorded in P. aeruginosa (226 μg/ ml) grown in nitrogen free medium followed by S. mutansand B. subtilis (220 and 206 μg/ ml respectively) in nitrogen free medium after 7 days of incubation at 37°C reported that production of EPS by Burkholderia gladioli IN-26 a strain of PGPR reduced bacterial speck on tomato. Similarly, Alami et al. reported that EPS produced by root associated saprophytic bacterium (rhizobacterium) PantoeaagglomeransYAS34 was associated with plant growth promotion of sunflower reported that Paenibacillus polymyxa produces a large amount of polysaccharide possessing high activity against crown rot disease caused by Aspergillus niger in plants[29,33,36].
Solubilization of insoluble zinc by the isolates
Three media were selected to study the solubilization zinc
oxide (BTG, Minimal salt medium and Pikovskaya medium) from
these media Pikovs kaya medium was selected for further studies.
Zinc phosphate-supplemented medium, where bacterial cells
belonging to this strain are small Gram-negative rods, are able
to grow in a simple mineral-glucose medium, with colonies being
UV fluorescent. However, Appanna and Whitmore found that the
production of protein-rich, zinc-binding moieties by P. fluorescens
ATCC 15325 accounted for a mechanism of zinc tolerance in this
strain. Although a similar mechanism may also occur in our strain
during the phase of increase in free Zn, alternatively, the protein
overproduction may be a factor involved in the solubilization
process and/or observed Zn toxicit [1,19].The absence of
detectable chelated zinc suggested that the solubilization process
is an indirect consequence of an increase in hydrogen ion activity
in the solution [19]. The observed acidification of the medium,
both in the zinc supplemented and in the control cultures, initially
occurred without correlation with the release of organic acids. A
cause of such an increase in the proton concentration may be the
depletion of ammonia, required for protein synthesis. Only when
zinc phosphate was present was there a secondary production of
gluconic acid (and/or keto-derivatives) which caused a further
decrease in pH, accounting for the observed high levels of Zn [19].
Zinc solubilization in PVK (Pikovskaya’s medium)
Zinc solubilization was studied in Pikovskaya’s agar and
liquid medium, a zone of inhibitions was obtained. Maximum
zinc solubilization zone was observed in isolate MSS-ZF3 and
MSS-ZF1 (90 mm), followed by MSS-ZF2 (80 mm), MSS-ZB1 (56
mm) MSS-ZB2 (47mm) MSS-ZB4 (45 mm) and MSS-ZB3 (44 mm)
after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚ C for Bacteria and at 28 o C fungi
(Figure1, 2).
The ability to dissolve appreciable amounts of zinc phosphate is not a common feature amongst the culturable bacteria of the surface soil samples. In contrast, many fungal isolates were able to produce visible clear haloes on the zinc phosphate-amended solid medium, but in only one case was the solubilization a result of bacterial activity. However, it is difficult, and not within the scope to extrapolate what the significance of this process is in the soil as it is widely recognized that only a small number of the members of bacterial soil communities are culturable with traditional isolation methods.
The ability to dissolve appreciable amounts of zinc phosphate is not a common feature amongst the culturable bacteria of the surface soil samples. In contrast, many fungal isolates were able to produce visible clear haloes on the zinc phosphate-amended solid medium, but in only one case was the solubilization a result of bacterial activity. However, it is difficult, and not within the scope to extrapolate what the significance of this process is in the soil as it is widely recognized that only a small number of the members of bacterial soil communities are culturable with traditional isolation methods.
Optimization of Media and Growth Condition for Zinc
Solubilization
Zinc solubilizing ability of bacterial strains was
tested in four different types of agar media. The media selected
were PVK, AYG, NBRIY and NBRiP, the maximum zone of
solubilization was observed in PVK Medium, Followed by NBRIY,
NBRiP, and AYG (Figure 3). From these observations as PVK
medium was giving the optimum results among all four media, so
PVK medium was selected for the further studies [21].
Effect of various Zinc source on efficiency of Zinc
Solubilization
Various Zinc sources like Zinc Carbonate,
Zinc Sulphate and Zinc Oxide, were studied in PVK Broth. The
maximum zinc solubilization zone was observed in isolate MSSZF1
(90 mm), followed by MSS-ZF3 (89 mm), MSS-ZF2 (79 mm),
MSS-ZB1 (57 mm) MSS-ZB2 (45 mm) MSS-ZB3 (45 mm) and MSSZB4
(44 mm) after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚
C for Bacteria and at 28 ˚ C fungi.
Zinc solubilizing potential varied with each isolate, the ZSB-O-1 (Bacillus sp.) obtained from the zinc ore exhibited the highest potential in Sphalerite (ZnS) containing medium, producing a clearing zone of 2.80 cm. Its performance in zinc
Zinc solubilizing potential varied with each isolate, the ZSB-O-1 (Bacillus sp.) obtained from the zinc ore exhibited the highest potential in Sphalerite (ZnS) containing medium, producing a clearing zone of 2.80 cm. Its performance in zinc
Figure 2: Zinc solubilization by the selected microbes.
Figure 3: Effect of different medium on Zinc solubilization.
carbonate and zinc oxide was 1.50 cm of clearing zone with zinc
oxide, respectively. The ZSB-S-2 (Pseudomonas sp.) produced
maximum clearing zone of 3.30 cm with zinc oxide and performed
poorly in zinc carbonate, with a clearing zone of 2.00 cm. The
ZSB-S-4 (Pseudomonas sp.) showed the highest potential in zinc
carbonate, with a clearing zone of 4.00 cm [36].
Effect of different concentration of Zinc Oxide on
efficiency of zinc Solubilization
Different concentration of Zinc
Oxide was added in the PVK agar medium, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%
and 0.5%. The maximum zinc solubilization zone was observed at
concentration 0.1% of ZnO, MSS-ZF1 (90 mm), followed by MSSZF3
(89 mm), MSS-ZF2 (79 mm), MSS-ZB1 (57mm) MSS-ZB2 (45
mm) MSS-ZB3 (45 mm) and MSS-ZB4 (44 mm) after incubation
of 14 days at 37 ˚ C for Bacteria and at 28 ˚ C fungi.
0.2% of concentration shows, the maximum zinc solubilization zone was observed at concentration 0.1% of ZnO, MSS-ZF3 (55 mm), MSS-ZF2 (52 mm), MSS-ZF1 (39 mm), MSS-ZB4 (39 mm) MSS-ZB1 (37 mm) MSS-ZB2 (34 mm) and MSS-ZB3 (34 mm) after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚ C for Bacteria and at 28 ˚ C fungi. No zone of solubilization was observed in concentration 0.3%, 0.4% and 0.5%. from the result, it is observed that the concentration above 0.2% ZnO seems to be inhibitory for the isolates so no zone of inhibition was observed (Figure 4).
The results have been obtained by Saravanam et al. that Even at 25 mg/kg concentration, there was reduction in population within 24 hours and afterwards population remained stable up to 8 days. At zinc concentration above 100mg/ kg, a further reduction in population was observed, which was more pronounced at 200 mg/ kg. The results showed the inherent capacity of the isolates to tolerate various levels of zinc. At 500 mg/kg level, ZSB-S-2 was completely inhibited at the 8th day, while ZSB-O-1 recorded 2 x 104 cells ml-1 at the 8th day after inoculation compared to 180 x 106 cells ml-1 observed just after inoculation [36].
0.2% of concentration shows, the maximum zinc solubilization zone was observed at concentration 0.1% of ZnO, MSS-ZF3 (55 mm), MSS-ZF2 (52 mm), MSS-ZF1 (39 mm), MSS-ZB4 (39 mm) MSS-ZB1 (37 mm) MSS-ZB2 (34 mm) and MSS-ZB3 (34 mm) after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚ C for Bacteria and at 28 ˚ C fungi. No zone of solubilization was observed in concentration 0.3%, 0.4% and 0.5%. from the result, it is observed that the concentration above 0.2% ZnO seems to be inhibitory for the isolates so no zone of inhibition was observed (Figure 4).
The results have been obtained by Saravanam et al. that Even at 25 mg/kg concentration, there was reduction in population within 24 hours and afterwards population remained stable up to 8 days. At zinc concentration above 100mg/ kg, a further reduction in population was observed, which was more pronounced at 200 mg/ kg. The results showed the inherent capacity of the isolates to tolerate various levels of zinc. At 500 mg/kg level, ZSB-S-2 was completely inhibited at the 8th day, while ZSB-O-1 recorded 2 x 104 cells ml-1 at the 8th day after inoculation compared to 180 x 106 cells ml-1 observed just after inoculation [36].
Effect of various Carbon sources on efficiency of Zinc
Solubilization
Various carbon sources like dextrose, glucose,
sucrose, lactose, glycerol and xylose, were studied in PVK agar
plate. The maximum zinc solubilization zone was observed in
dextrose, followed by glucose, fructose, sucrose, lactose and
glycerol.In 1% Dextrose, Maximum zone of solubilization was observed
in isolate MSS-ZF2 (57mm), followed by MSS-ZF1 (56mm), MSSZF3
(54 mm), MSS-ZB1(54 mm), MSS-ZB4 (49 mm), MSS-ZB3 (49
mm) and MSS-ZB2 (46 mm), after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚ C
for Bacteria and at 28 ˚ C fungi (Figure 5).
In 1% Glucose, Maximum zone of zinc solubilization was
observed in isolates MSS-ZF3 (54mm), followed by MSS-ZF1 (49
mm), MSS-ZF2 (47 mm), MSS-ZB4 (42 mm) MSS-ZB3 (36 mm)
MSS-ZB1 (34 mm) and MSS-ZB2 (34 mm) after incubation of 14
days at 37 ˚C for Bacteria and at 28 ˚ C fungi (Figure 5).
In 1% Sucrose zone of zinc solubilization was observed only in two isolates MSS-ZB2 (21 mm) and MSS-ZB2 (20 mm) after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚ C for Bacteria and at 28oC fungi (Figure 5). In 1% Lactose, Maximum zone of zinc solubilization was observed in isolate MSS-ZF1 (65 mm), MSS-ZF2 (45 mm), MSSZB4 (21 mm), MSS-ZB1 (19 mm) MSS-ZF3 (18 mm) MSS-ZB2 (18 mm) and MSS-ZB4 (12 mm) after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚ C for Bacteria and at 28 ˚ C fungi (Figure 5).
In 1% Glycerol, Maximum zone of zinc solubilization was observed in isolate MSS-ZF1 (38 mm), MSS-ZF3 (29 mm), MSSZB4 (21 mm), MSS-ZB1 (19 mm), MSS-ZF2 (17 mm) and no zone of zinc solubilization was observed in MSS-ZB2 and MSS-ZB3, after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚ C for Bacteria and at 28 ˚ C fungi (Figure 5).
In 1% Xylose, Maximum zone of solubilization was observed in isolate MSS-ZF3 (55 mm), MSS-ZF2(20 mm), MSS-ZB1 (10 mm), MSS-ZB3 (9 mm) after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚C for Bacteria and at 28oC fungi, and no zone of zinc solubilization was observed in other isolates (Figure 5) [37]. The effect of different carbon sources on zinc phosphate dissolution by Pseudomonas fluorescens showed that the Glucose was found to be the only suitable carbon source for the occurrence of a clear halo around colonies on solid zinc phosphate-containing medium some solubilization was also observed with mannose [19].
In 1% Sucrose zone of zinc solubilization was observed only in two isolates MSS-ZB2 (21 mm) and MSS-ZB2 (20 mm) after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚ C for Bacteria and at 28oC fungi (Figure 5). In 1% Lactose, Maximum zone of zinc solubilization was observed in isolate MSS-ZF1 (65 mm), MSS-ZF2 (45 mm), MSSZB4 (21 mm), MSS-ZB1 (19 mm) MSS-ZF3 (18 mm) MSS-ZB2 (18 mm) and MSS-ZB4 (12 mm) after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚ C for Bacteria and at 28 ˚ C fungi (Figure 5).
In 1% Glycerol, Maximum zone of zinc solubilization was observed in isolate MSS-ZF1 (38 mm), MSS-ZF3 (29 mm), MSSZB4 (21 mm), MSS-ZB1 (19 mm), MSS-ZF2 (17 mm) and no zone of zinc solubilization was observed in MSS-ZB2 and MSS-ZB3, after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚ C for Bacteria and at 28 ˚ C fungi (Figure 5).
In 1% Xylose, Maximum zone of solubilization was observed in isolate MSS-ZF3 (55 mm), MSS-ZF2(20 mm), MSS-ZB1 (10 mm), MSS-ZB3 (9 mm) after incubation of 14 days at 37 ˚C for Bacteria and at 28oC fungi, and no zone of zinc solubilization was observed in other isolates (Figure 5) [37]. The effect of different carbon sources on zinc phosphate dissolution by Pseudomonas fluorescens showed that the Glucose was found to be the only suitable carbon source for the occurrence of a clear halo around colonies on solid zinc phosphate-containing medium some solubilization was also observed with mannose [19].
Effect of various Nitrogen sources on efficiency of Zinc
solubilization
Various Nitrogen sources like (NH4)2SO4, Urea,
Casein, and NaNO3 were studied in PVK Broth. Amongst all the
nitrogen source zone of zinc solubilization was observed in
(NH4)2SO4and no zone of solubilization was observed in other
nitrogen source [37].
Figure 4: Effect of different ZnO Concentration on Zinc solubilization.
Figure 5: Effect of different carbon source on Zinc solubilization.
Effect of temperature on efficiency of Zinc solubilization
Media composition to which the bacteria responded best was
used as substrate. Inoculation was carried out by using pure
colony of a bacterial grown on Basal medium of isolates and
allowed to grow and maintained at 8°C, 15°C, 28°C, Room
Temperature, 37°C, and 55°C for 14 days respectively [20]. The
Zone of Solublization was Observed and measured in millimeter
(Figure 6).
Effect of pH on efficiency of Zinc Solubilization
Optimal
media and temperature was used, but the pH of the media was
set at pH 4, pH 6, pH 6.5, pH 7, pH 9 using NaOH or HCl and grown
for 14 days respectively [19]. The zone of solubilization was
Observed and measured in millimeter (Figure 7).
Effect of different Salinity on efficiency of Zinc
Solubilization
Optimal media and Conditions were used, but the
saline concentration was added as NaCl(0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%
and 1%) and KCl (0.02%, 0.04%, 0.06%, 0.08% and 0.1%) in the
media was set and grown for 14 days respectively (Figure 6,7)
[20]. The Zone of solubilization was Observed and measured in
millimeter (Figure 8,9).
Based on the optimization of media and growth condition results it was found that both bacterial and fungal cultures were able to grow and solubilize zinc optimum on carbon source 1% dextrose, nitrogen source Ammonium Sulphate and with ZnO (0.1% ZnO). The temperature of incubation was different; 37 ˚ C was found optimum for bacteria and 30 ± 2 for fungi. From the pH study, it was observed that 7 pH was optimum for bacteria and 6.5 was optimum for fungi. Further Zinc estimation was performed
Based on the optimization of media and growth condition results it was found that both bacterial and fungal cultures were able to grow and solubilize zinc optimum on carbon source 1% dextrose, nitrogen source Ammonium Sulphate and with ZnO (0.1% ZnO). The temperature of incubation was different; 37 ˚ C was found optimum for bacteria and 30 ± 2 for fungi. From the pH study, it was observed that 7 pH was optimum for bacteria and 6.5 was optimum for fungi. Further Zinc estimation was performed
Figure 6: Effect of different temperature on Zinc solubilization.
Figure 7: Effect of different pH on Zinc solubilization.
Figure 8: Effect of different NaCl concentration on Zinc solubilization.
Figure 9: Effect of different KCl concentration on Zinc solubilization.
in the optimized media and growth condition in Pikovskaya’s
liquid broth amended with 0.1% ZnO.
The observations recorded during the growth of liquid cultures of P. fluorescens 3a by Di Simine et al are reported. Although the solid and liquid media contained different nitrogen sources, the microorganism was able to dissolve zinc phosphate in liquid medium, consistent with the observations on solid medium. Analysis of the supernatants, performed by AAS and voltammetry, showed an increase in the concentration of soluble Zn up to values of about 7 mM [19]. Such an increase occurred without a meaningful difference between the free Zn and the total zinc concentrations, suggesting the absence of complexation phenomena involving the Zn in solution [19].
Di Simine et al also reported that during the time course of the experiment, bacterial proliferation occurred concurrently with a drop in the pH of both the control and the zinc phosphatesupplemented cultures, growth of the cultures was complete within 24 h, the pH at this time reaching a value of about 4.5 [19]. The pH subsequently remained constant in the control culture, whereas a further slow decrease to values closer to pH 4 was observed in the zinc phosphate-supplemented culture [18]. Same decrease in the pH was also observed in cultures which showed a shift in pH after growth in the broth. After 15 days, the pH of the broth was acidic in all cultures. The pH shifted from 7-7.3 to 4.8-6.5. The ZSB-S-4 culture showed the lowest pH value (4.8) on 15th day after inoculation, indicating a higher acidity due to growth [37].
The observations recorded during the growth of liquid cultures of P. fluorescens 3a by Di Simine et al are reported. Although the solid and liquid media contained different nitrogen sources, the microorganism was able to dissolve zinc phosphate in liquid medium, consistent with the observations on solid medium. Analysis of the supernatants, performed by AAS and voltammetry, showed an increase in the concentration of soluble Zn up to values of about 7 mM [19]. Such an increase occurred without a meaningful difference between the free Zn and the total zinc concentrations, suggesting the absence of complexation phenomena involving the Zn in solution [19].
Di Simine et al also reported that during the time course of the experiment, bacterial proliferation occurred concurrently with a drop in the pH of both the control and the zinc phosphatesupplemented cultures, growth of the cultures was complete within 24 h, the pH at this time reaching a value of about 4.5 [19]. The pH subsequently remained constant in the control culture, whereas a further slow decrease to values closer to pH 4 was observed in the zinc phosphate-supplemented culture [18]. Same decrease in the pH was also observed in cultures which showed a shift in pH after growth in the broth. After 15 days, the pH of the broth was acidic in all cultures. The pH shifted from 7-7.3 to 4.8-6.5. The ZSB-S-4 culture showed the lowest pH value (4.8) on 15th day after inoculation, indicating a higher acidity due to growth [37].
Conclusion
In the present investigation, the application of PGPR had been
studied for the Zinc solubilizing ability. The ability to dissolve
appreciable amounts of zinc oxide was not a common feature
amongst the cultivable bacteria of the surface soil samples
examined in the present investigation. In contrast, three fungal
isolates and four bacterial isolates were able to produce visible
clear haloes on the zinc oxide amended solid medium. Amongst
all the seven isolates (MSS-ZB1, MSS-ZB2, MSS-ZB3, MSS-ZB4,
MSS-ZF1, MSS-ZF2 and MSS-ZF3) MSS-ZB4 and MSS-ZF3 were
showing best suitable PGPR characteristics for the plant growth
promotion. Considering the plant growth promoting abilities and
zinc solubilizing abilities of strains, biofertilizer preparation is
possible. Thus, our strains MSS-ZB4 and MSS-ZF3 can be further
use as Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria for improvement of
micronutrient deficiency will be promising due to its ecological,
economic and ecofriendly nature.
Acknowledgement
We are thankful to UGC-Maulana Azad National Fellowship
for their financial assistance.
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