Symbiotic N2 fixation and nutrient uptake of mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) co-inoculated with Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Pseudomonas fluorescens under simulated drought conditions

Abstract

This study explored the benefits of using plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria to enhance mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) plant ability to withstand drought stress. By inoculating mung bean plants with Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Pseudomonas fluorescens either alone or in combination, this study investigated the effects of co-inoculation of B. japonicum and P. fluorescens on mung bean growth, nutritional composition, and nitrogen fixation under drought stress conditions. The experiment, conducted in a randomized complete block design with four replicates per treatment under greenhouse conditions, revealed that co-inoculation with both bacteria significantly increased nitrogen fixation by 71%, with N fixation levels ranging from 29.51 to 56.23 kg. ha−1. This study further revealed a significant increase in shoot biomass, grain yield, and macro-and micronutrients uptake in mung bean plants. These findings suggest that co-inoculation with compatible rhizobacteria can improve the resilience of mung bean plants to drought conditions and enhance their overall performance.