Researchers from Eternal University and collaborating institutions have reported the first successful microbial consortium combining an iron-chelating bacterium (Salipaludibacillus agaradhaerens EU-WRN-48) and a zinc-solubilizing bacterium (Pseudomonas silesiensis EU-WRN-33). This novel bioinoculant, tested on wheat grown in the hilly regions of the Indian Himalayas, has demonstrated significant improvement in crop growth and micronutrient uptake.
The study, published in National Academy Science Letters (2025), revealed that applying the consortium increased wheat grain iron content to 61.33 ppm and zinc to 76.12 ppm, far higher than control plants. Enhanced shoot and root lengths, chlorophyll levels, and biomass were also recorded, outperforming traditional chemical fertilizer treatments.
By improving nutrient availability naturally, this microbial partnership offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers. The authors suggest this method could help alleviate “hidden hunger” — the global issue of micronutrient deficiency affecting over two billion people.
Microbial-assisted biofortification aligns with organic farming and soil health restoration goals. The findings pave the way for bioinoculant development for large-scale field applications in wheat and potentially other staple crops.
Reference
Negi, R., Sharma, B., S., R. J., Gupta, A., Kaur, N., Yadav, N., Puri, P., Singh, S., Shreaz, S., & Yadav, A. N. (2025). First Report on Novel Microbial Consortium of Fe-Chelator and Zn Solubilizer for Growth Promotion of Wheat Growing in Hilly Regions of the Indian Himalayas. National Academy Science Letters. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40009-025-01843-8
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