Isolation and characterization of soil cyanobacteria and microalgae and evaluation of their potential as plant biostimulants

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2023

Authors

Roque, J (Author) Other; Brito, A (Author) Other; Rocha, M (Author) Other; Pissarra, J (Author) Other; Nunes, T (Author) Other; Bessa, M (Author) Other; Vieira, J (Author) ICBAS; Cristina Vieira (Author) FCUP; Melo, P (Author) FCUP; Paula Tamagnini (Author) FCUP

Journal

Title: Plant and Soil

Vol. 493

Pages: 115-136

ISSN: 0032-079X

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Z-2DJ

DOI: 10.1007/s11104-023-06217-x

Abstract (EN): Background and AimsBiocrusts are found on soil surface resulting from an association between soil particles and microorganisms. Photoautotrophic cyanobacteria and microalgae are pioneers on biocrusts formation, promoting soil stability, nutrients availability and water retention, leading to the development of other communities. This work aimed at isolating and characterizing cyanobacteria/microalgae from biocrusts (Central Portugal) and to assess their potential as plant biostimulants, as well as obtaining an insight into their mechanism(s) of action. MethodsMicroorganisms were isolated through successive spread plating/serial dilutions and characterized using genetical analysis/morphological traits. An initial screening was performed using exudates from each microorganism and two plant species, Arabidopsis thaliana and Lolium multiflorum. Subsequently, the selected microorganisms were tested as a consortium in hydroponic systems. Biometric and biochemical parameters were evaluated for both plant species. ResultsThe consortium microorganisms belong to genera often found in soils/biocrusts: Trichocoleus, Nodosilinea, Microcoleus (filamentous cyanobacteria), Nostoc (diazotrophic heterocystous cyanobacteria), and Klebsormidium (filamentous microalga), and some of them have the capacity to produce phytohormones and/or siderophores. The consortium showed biostimulant potential in hydroponic cultures, promoting plant growth and enhancing physiological productivity related parameters. Stress related parameters revealed that the microorganisms did not lead to a stressful situation. However, a significant increase in proline was observed, endorsing a role of this molecule in this process. ConclusionThis study contributes to the knowledge on the biodiversity of cyanobacteria and microalgae from Portuguese soils and highlights their potential as biostimulants, constituting a step forward towards understanding the molecular mechanisms behind this effect.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 22