Phylogenetic Analysis of Bacterial Isolates Recovered from Salt-affected Soils of Haryana & Punjab, India

Abstract

Excessive saline/alkaline conditions present a significant challenge to the environment and ecology, impacting yield, plant growth, and soil health. This study focuses on isolating and characterizing halophilic bacteria from salt-affected areas in Haryana and Punjab, India. Morphological, biochemical, and molecular analyses were conducted to assess their potential as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) for mitigating salt stress in salt-affected soils. Four bacterial strains, identified as HR3-PM, PB01-KB, PB-424, and PB-466, were isolated and characterized. Morphological and biochemical assays revealed diverse traits among the isolates, including phosphate solubilization, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, and ammonia excretion. Molecular identification via 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed their taxonomic classification and revealed close homology to known bacterial species such as Klebsiella aerogenes, Pseudomonas mosselii, Lysinibacillus acetophenoni, and Pseudomonas stutzeri. Phylogenetic analysis provided insights into their evolutionary relationships. These salt-tolerant bacteria exhibit promising PGPR activities, suggesting their potential for sustainable agriculture and soil remediation practices in salt-affected soils. Harnessing their abilities could offer cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions to mitigate soil salinity, enhance plant productivity, and contribute to global environmental stresses. Further research is warranted to fully understand and harness the biotechnological potential of these halophilic bacteria in salt-affected ecosystems, paving the way for a more sustainable environmental future.