Bacillus megaterium is another beneficial soil bacterium that promotes plant growth, health, and resilience through various mechanisms. Below is a concise overview of how plants can benefit from Bacillus megaterium:
Nutrient Solubilization and Availability:
Bacillus megaterium is highly effective at solubilizing phosphorus, converting insoluble forms into plant-available forms, which enhances nutrient uptake and supports root and shoot development.
It also aids in nitrogen fixation and potassium solubilization, improving overall nutrient availability in the soil.
Plant Growth Promotion:
The bacterium produces phytohormones such as indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellins, which stimulate root elongation, branching, and overall plant growth.
It enhances seed germination and seedling vigor, leading to healthier and more robust plants.
Biocontrol of Pathogens:
Bacillus megaterium produces antimicrobial compounds and enzymes (e.g., chitinases and proteases) that suppress soil-borne pathogens like Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, and Pythium.
It competes with harmful microbes for space and nutrients, reducing the incidence of diseases such as root rot or damping-off.
Stress Tolerance:
The bacterium helps plants tolerate abiotic stresses like drought, salinity, and heavy metal toxicity by producing stress-mitigating compounds and enhancing root system resilience.
It can form biofilms around roots, improving water and nutrient retention under adverse conditions.
Soil Health and Bioremediation:
Bacillus megaterium improves soil fertility by decomposing organic matter, releasing essential nutrients, and enhancing soil microbial activity.
It can degrade environmental pollutants, such as pesticides or heavy metals, creating a cleaner and healthier soil environment for plants.
Applications:
Used as a biofertilizer or biopesticide in sustainable agriculture to reduce chemical fertilizer and pesticide use.
Applied through seed treatment, soil inoculation, or foliar sprays for optimal results.
Examples:
Research shows Bacillus megaterium increasing yields in crops like maize, wheat, and soybeans by improving nutrient uptake and protecting against soil pathogens.
It’s particularly valuable in organic farming and bioremediation projects for contaminated soils.