Published in Scientific Papers. Series A. Agronomy, Vol. LXII, Issue 1
Written by Vladimir ROTARU
The application of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) is a sustainable approach to improve crops physiological processes and to overcome abiotic stresses. The effects of rhizobacteria Bradyrhizobium japonicum applied alone or in combination with Pseudomonas putida were examined on photosynthetic pigments contents and leaf nitrogen status in soybean plants subjected concomitantly to low phosphorus (P) and moderate drought conditions. The lowest content of pigments was revealed in plants subjected to both abiotic factors. The results indicated that the application of B. japonicum and P. putida significantly improved nitrogen and photosynthetic pigments status in leaves, particularly chlorophyll a and b under temporary drought compared to uninoculated ones. The application of rhizobacteria B. japonicum alone or together with P. putida significantly increased carotenoids concentrations in plants regardless of soil moisture levels. In conclusion, the detrimental effects generated by low P and drought on photosynthetic pigments status and nitrogen nutrition of soybean were partially alleviated by the use of rhizobacteria.
[Read full article] [Citation]
