Significance of Soil Siderophore-Producing Bacteria in Evaluation and Elevation of Crop Yield

Abstract

Iron is a vital element for plant and microbial growth; yet, the major portion of iron in soils is in the form of (oxi-)hydroxides with limited bioavailability, resulting in decreased crop yield quality. In response to iron deficiency, soil microorganisms produce siderophores that transform insoluble iron into a soluble form that plants and microorganisms can use. The abundance and activity of siderophore-producing bacteria (SPB) might be used as a biological assessment index for the fertility status of cultivated land. In order to achieve this goal, it is critical to investigate the influences of SPB on plant growth and soil quality. In this study, we performed a mixed-effect model meta-analysis on 342 research studies that compared plant growth with and without SPB. The findings revealed that SPB increased plant growth significantly (up to 30%). The stimulating effects on plants followed the sequences of pant weight, plant height, and germination rate.