Isolation and characterization of novel silicate-solubilizing bacteria from natural habitats

It is known that silica (Si) is a crucial element that is abundant in soil and helps plant development. However, it is not available in a form that plants can directly absorb. Silicate-dissolving bacteria convert the silicate minerals in the soil into a form that can be absorbed. They are helpful bacteria that enable the plant to absorb it as nutrients. Rice plant, which is in the high silica accumulator group, was used in this study. Root bacteria of plant samples collected from the Bolu/Kıbrıscık region were isolated, and biochemical properties characterized by Silica Solubility, Nitrogen Fixation, Indole acetic acid production, Catalase Test, and Phosphate Solubility tests were performed. The results showed that the isolated bacteria demonstrated a high capacity for solubilizing silicate minerals. This ability is a significant factor in plant nutrient availability and has significant potential for agricultural applications. The findings of this study offer insight into the mechanisms of silicate solubilization by bacteria and their potential for sustainable agriculture. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the use of bacteria to promote plant growth. It offers a novel approach to the development of biofertilizers for sustainable agriculture.