Work

Plant growth-promoting effect of seed biopriming of local Bacillus thuringiensis isolates on Cicer arietinum L.

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The present investigation aimed to evaluate the influence of seed biopriming with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) isolates on germination and early seedling growth of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L., variety Jaki-9218). Twenty-one indigenous Bt isolates, along with a standard Bt-HD-1 strain, were tested under laboratory conditions using the paper towel method. Results revealed that several Bt strains significantly enhanced seed performance compared to the untreated control. Notably, PDKV-Bt-SBn-2, PDKV-Bt-SAk-12, PDKV-Bt-SDA-1, and PDKV-Bt-SA-22 recorded faster emergence, higher germination rates, longer root and shoot lengths, and superior vigour indices. Improvements included a reduction of nearly one day in emergence, 13-14% higher germination, and up to 9-11 cm greater seedling length compared to control. These findings demonstrate that indigenous Bt strains not only promote early establishment but also enhance vigour and resilience. Hence, Bt-based biopriming represents a promising, cost-effective, and eco-friendly strategy for sustainable chickpea production under diverse agro-climatic conditions.

Source: International Journal of Advanced Biochemistry Research

DOI: 10.33545/26174693.2025.v9.i8sv.5413