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Review
. 2024 Aug 20:7:100268.
doi: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2024.100268. eCollection 2024.

Exploring the landscape of biofertilizers containing plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria in Iran: Progress and research prospects

Houshang Khosravi  1 , Bahman Khoshru  1 , Alireza Fallah Nosratabad  1 , Debasis Mitra  2
Affiliations
Review

Exploring the landscape of biofertilizers containing plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria in Iran: Progress and research prospects

Houshang Khosravi et al. Curr Res Microb Sci. .

Abstract

The use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture, while effective for plant nutrition, poses environmental pollution risks due to their overuse and imbalance. Sustainable agricultural solutions are required to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers. Biofertilizers, which harness the potential of beneficial soil microorganisms, are a promising alternative. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial soil bacteria for the preparing of biofertilizers, as they enhance plant growth through various mechanisms, such as nitrogen fixation, hormone production, and nutrient solubilization. Although significant results have been achieved in laboratory and greenhouse experiments, field studies are relatively limited. In the last three decades, research has been conducted on PGPR in Iran but The Soil and Water Research Institute (SWRI) has been a focal point for concentrated and continuous research on PGPR biofertilizers, resulting in the development of various biofertilizers containing Azotobacter, Pseudomonas, and Bacillus strains. In any case, biofertilizers still do not have a significant place in Iran's agriculture compared to chemical fertilizers. Challenges to the research, development, and adoption of PGPR biofertilizers in Iran include reliance on chemical fertilizers, low soil organic matter, and limited coordination among research, production, and extension efforts. However, there are opportunities for growth, including skilled professionals, technical knowledge, and existing infrastructure in the private sector, as well as an increasing demand for organic and sustainable products. To further develop PGPR biofertilizers in Iran, it is recommended to increase soil organic matter, conduct molecular research to enhance PGPR efficiency, establish research extension farms, and promote the benefits of biofertilizer use. These measures could contribute to broader adoption of biofertilizers and sustainable agricultural practices in Iran.

Keywords: Chemical fertilizers; Commercialization; Environmental health; Inoculant.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as potential conflicts of interest.

Figures

Image, graphical abstract
Graphical abstract
Fig 1
Fig. 1
Mechanisms through which PGPR may affect plant growth.
Fig 2
Fig. 2
Biofertilizer containing PGPR production stages and their quality control.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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