Comparison of the effectiveness of wheat roots colonization by Azotobacter chroococcum and Pantoea agglomerans using serological techniques

Abstract

Colonization of Azotobacter chroococcum Mac 27 strain on wheat roots was monitored using double antibody sandwich enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (DAS ELISA) and immuno-fluorescence in terms of colonization sites, migration and survival of the bacteria. Furthermore, the effectivity of inoculation of A. chroococcum and Pantoea agglomerans D5/23 strain on wheat plant parameters under greenhouse conditions was investigated. Studies with DAS ELISA revealed that root tip had significant titre of inoculants as compared to the basal root parts. A. chroococcum colonized roots as well as soil and also migrated along with roots. An overall increase in plant growth was observed with inoculation of these bacteria. Both A. chroococcum and P. agglomerans were found to increase plant dry matter, nitrogen and phosphate uptake.