Characterisation of nitrogen fixing bacteria from mangrove ecosystem of Panangadu regions in Ernakulam district, Kerala, India

Abstract

Mangroves and wetlands are a rich source of microorganisms that are yet to be studied completely. In recent years, many new beneficial microbes and their bioactive compounds have been obtained from this ecosystem. In the present study, bacterial isolates were obtained from mangrove sediment, soil and water. Among the isolates, nitrogen fixing isolates were selected and further characterized. Properties such as siderophore production, phosphate solubilization and cellulose utilizing isolates were studied for analyzing their plant growth promoting capability. Out of 20 isolates all the isolates were found to be nitrogen fixing. 12 isolates was found to be siderophore producing. Phosphate solubilization was demonstrated by 12 isolates. Cellulose utilization was maximum by 12 isolates.