Abstract:
The present investigation was aimed to isolate Rhizobium strains from high altitudes of northern Pakistan and their biochemical characterization regarding phytohormone production and ability to form nodules on re-inoculation. Rhizobium species from the soil of northern areas were isolated in yeast mannitol agar medium. They were identified and characterized on the basis of morphological characters and biochemical tests. The maximum level of phytohormone production was observed in the isolates from Naran, showing the pattern of quick miniatured testing system QTS-24 test different from other isolates. A significant positive correlation was found between altitude and gibberellic acid versus indole acetic acid ratio (GA/IAA). Beneficial effects of Rhizobium inoculation were obtained on soybean plants grown in sterilized soil. The maximum increase in fresh and dry weight and the greater number of nodules were obtained in the Rhizobium isolates from Shinkyari as compared to that of higher altitudes. It is inferred that strain isolated from Naran was most effective inoculant.
Page(s):
536-540
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: International Journal of Agriculture and Biology, Volume: 10, Issue: 5, Year: 2008