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The aim of the study was to analyse the impact of innovative approaches to cereal cultivation in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine. The study used the latest plant varieties, efficient irrigation systems and biological products to increase crop yields and resilience. The wheat varieties used were Stepova 1 and Dniprovska 1, as well as Pivdennyi 1 barley, which are highly resistant to drought and high temperatures. Drip and sub-surface irrigation systems were used, as well as bio-fertilisers and organic composts to improve soil structure and increase soil fertility. The main results of the study showed that wheat yields in the experimental groups reached 5.2-5.7 tonnes/ha, which is 1.8-1.9 tonnes/ha more than in the control groups. Water consumption in the experimental groups was reduced by 35-40%, and the cost of plant protection products by 45-50%. The protein content of wheat in the experimental groups was 14-15% and the fibre content was 30-32%, while in the control groups it was 11-12% and 25-27%, respectively. Soil analysis in the experimental groups showed higher levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which indicates the effectiveness of biofertilisers. In addition, the use of biological products helped to reduce the chemical load on the environment. The results obtained indicate a significant increase in productivity, reduced resource use and improved environmental sustainability with the introduction of innovative methods of growing crops in this region, which is important for ensuring food security and economic development in Ukraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Microalgae and seaweed have been consumed as food for several decades to combat starvation and food shortages worldwide. The most famous edible microalgae species are Nostoc, Spirulina, and Aphanizomenon, in addition to seaweeds, which are used in traditional medicine and food, such as Nori, which is one of the most popular foods containing Pyropia alga as a major ingredient. Recently, many applications use algae-derived polysaccharides such as agar, alginate, carrageenan, cellulose, fucoidan, mannan, laminarin, ulvan, and xylan as gelling agents in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics industries. Moreover, pigments (carotenoids particularly astaxanthins, chlorophylls, and phycobilins), minerals, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, peptides, proteins, polyphenols, and diterpenes compounds are accumulated under specific cultivation and stress conditions in the algal cells to be harvested and their biomass used as a feedstock for the relevant industries and applications. No less critical is the use of algae in bioremediation, thus contributing significantly to environmental sustainability. This review will explore and discuss the various applications of microalgae and seaweeds, emphasising their role in bioremediation, recent products with algal added-value compounds that are now on the market, and novel under-developing applications such as bioplastics and nanoparticle production. Nonetheless, special attention is also drawn towards the limitations of these applications and the technologies applied, and how they may be overcome.

Microalgae and seaweed have been consumed as food for several decades to combat starvation and food shortages worldwide. The most famous edible microalgae species are Nostoc, Spirulina, and Aphanizomenon, in addition to seaweeds, which are used in traditional medicine and food, such as Nori, which is one of the most popular foods containing Pyropia alga as a major ingredient. Recently, many applications use algae-derived polysaccharides such as agar, alginate, carrageenan, cellulose, fucoidan, mannan, laminarin, ulvan, and xylan as gelling agents in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics industries. Moreover, pigments (carotenoids particularly astaxanthins, chlorophylls, and phycobilins), minerals, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, peptides, proteins, polyphenols, and diterpenes compounds are accumulated under specific cultivation and stress conditions in the algal cells to be harvested and their biomass used as a feedstock for the relevant industries and applications. No less critical is the use of algae in bioremediation, thus contributing significantly to environmental sustainability. This review will explore and discuss the various applications of microalgae and seaweeds, emphasising their role in bioremediation, recent products with algal added-value compounds that are now on the market, and novel under-developing applications such as bioplastics and nanoparticle production. Nonetheless, special attention is also drawn towards the limitations of these applications and the technologies applied, and how they may be overcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertilisers maintain agricultural productivity for world needs, Despite the numerous advantages of controlled release fertilisers (CRFs), production expenses and impacts on the environment and soil quality limit widespread adoption. This research focuses on valorising agro-industrial waste through a biotransformation process (anaerobic and aerobic digestion). The resulting biofertilisers, when associated with phosphogypsum (PG) using the simplex-centroid design, create organo-mineral fertilisers with controlled nutrient release. A balanced formulation with 33.33% of each component (digestate, compost, and phosphogypsum) demonstrates a promising sustainable approach, contributing nutritional elements with exceptional control and sustained release characteristics, all without the previous use of coating materials. This environment-friendly approach accords with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly 2, 3, 12, and 15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Limitation in soil organic matter interferes with plant growth and productivity. Chemical fertilisers can provide limiting nutrients to plants, especially in barren soil, but they have detrimental *Correspondence to: Sedat Çam Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harran University, Haliliye, S¸anlıurfa 63050, Turkey Email: sedatcam@harran.edu.tr effects on living organisms; therefore, plant growth-promoting (PGP) rhizobacteria may be an alternative to synthetic fertilisers to improve plant tolerance to nutrient stress. Aims. This study evaluated the effects of single and co-inoculation of two PGP rhizobacterial strains with macroalgae (Cladophora glomerata) extract on barley growth. We also tested the ability of the respective strains to produce biofilm and exopolysaccharide (EPS) at different pH values under in vitro conditions. Methods. Plants were cultivated in an organic matter-limited alkaline soil under Handling Editor: Caixian Tang field conditions. Key results. All treatments increased barley growth parameters to some extent. Growth parameters increased most in Bacillus + macroalgae extract (B + MA) and Bacillus + Azotobacter + macroalgae extract (B + A + MA) treatments. These two treatments significantly enhanced shoot length by 22.9-25.7%, dry weight of shoot + spike by 118.2-154.5%, total weight of grains by 76.5-78.1%, and number of grains per spike by 94.8-112.1% in comparison with the control. The respective two treatments also increased biofilm formation and EPS production in response to alkaline pH. Conclusions. Barley productivity may be increased by using PGP strains with greater potential to produce biofilm and EPS, and inoculating them with macroalgae extract. The B + MA treatment could be applied singly or in combination with Azotobacter. Implications. Single or co-inoculation of such PGP bacteria with macroalgae extract may be commercialised to enhance barley productivity in organic matter-limited soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Catha edulis, commonly called as khat or chat is an evergreen plant cultivated in Ethiopia for its stimulant leaves. The young leaves are chewed as a part of social recreation and the older leaves along with the twigs are discarded. This forms the major part of municipal solid waste that is dumped in large quantity in Harar region. The present study was carried in Haramaya University, Ethiopia to decompose the khat wastes along with crop residues and different animal manures (cow dung, goat manure, poultry manure and swine manure) using the earthworm Eisenia foetida. Methods The collected khat wastes along with crop residues and different animal manures were vermicomposted and assessed for nutrient contents using standard procedures. Results The result of the experiment indicated that all the parameters were improved by the decomposition using earthworms and the C/N ratio was within the limits that indicate the maturity of the compost. The organic carbon, organic matter, total nitrogen, phosphorus, copper, iron, zinc and manganese contents were analyzed and found to be improved after decomposition. The added crop residues and animal manures enhanced the decomposition process and manurial value of the khat leaf waste. Conclusion The nutrient content of the vermicomposts revealed khat to be a suitable substrate for vermicomposting thereby making efficient utilization of solid wastes. This can be an effective technology to reduce the solid waste and the resultant product can be used for improving soil fertility and crop production by the farmers.

Cabbage is one of the most important vegetables from the Brassicaceae family to which biofertilisers are increasingly applied following the current trend in cabbage organic farming. The main goal of our study was to examine whether solely applicated biofertilisers enhance head weight and other morphological parameters in cabbage. Experiment with three Bejo Zaden cultivars ('Farao' F1, 'Tiara' F1, and 'Excalibur' F1) were conducted under the open field conditions from April to June 2019. Two different microbiological fertilisers, Organic balance and FitoHelp, were applied foliar, six times during the vegetation period, with a battery sprayer. After harvest, several parameters were estimated: head weight, width and height, number of leaves, internal core height and width. The results showed the highest value of head weight (1264.89 g), head width (15.06 cm), head height (15.57 cm), number of leaves (22.56), internal core height (8.01 cm) and internal core width (3.51 cm) in cultivar 'Excalibur' F1 compared to other two cultivars for fresh market. Application of both fertilisers led to increased levels of all tested parameters compared to the control. Furthermore, fertiliser Organic balance showed the highest impact on all tested parameters, resulting in an increasing value of head weight by 78.6%. This study revealed that mixed culture fertiliser showed a greater impact in terms of head weight, number of leaves, and internal core width compared to fertiliser containing a single strain of bacteria. Accordingly, with an exception in head and internal core height, all examined factors showed a statistically significant impact on tested parameters, including their interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of our study was to find an optimal combination of tested factors to achieve lettuce rich in bioactive compounds sustaining its pleasant taste. We examined three red and three green cultivars in a greenhouse using two microbiological fertilisers (EM Aktiv and Vital Tricho), and their combination. Plants were grown in three consecutive growing seasons (autumn, winter, and spring). Lactones accumulated in autumn, whereas phenolics' concentration rose during winter. Red cultivars showed higher phenolics and lactone content, where chicoric acid and luteolin-7-glucoside were the most abundant in the 'Gaugin' winter trial. Lactucopicrin was the predominant lactone among tested cultivars with the highest value in the red cultivar 'Carmesi'. Solely applicated, the fertiliser EM Aktiv and Vital Tricho led to significantly higher phenolic acid and dihydrolactucopicrin content, while combined, there were notably increased levels of all detected lactones. Application of single fertilisers had no effect on flavonoid content, while the combination even reduced it. A sensory analysis showed a negative correlation between overall taste and total sesquiterpene lactones, lactucopicrin, caffeoylmalic, and chlorogenic acid, indicating a less bitter taste with decreasing content of these compounds. Our findings indicate that the cultivar, fertiliser, and growing season jointly affected all of the tested parameters, highlighting the differences in the application of EM Aktiv, Vital Tricho, and their combination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact produced by agrochemicals on periurban agriculture soils generates an environmental concern. The objective of this work was to evaluate the potential of native plant growth-promoting bacteria to recover the horticultural soil quality for bioinoculant design using Eisenia andrei as bioindicator. Total phosphorus determination and bioassays with E. andrei cholinesterases, carboxylesterases and glutathione S-transferases as biomarkers were performed. Glutathione S-transferase levels were significantly augmented (~ 30%) evidencing the risk of uncontrolled use of agrochemicals. Native Pseudomonas migulae S1-2, Sphingobium yanoikuyae SP-3 and Leucobacter aridicollis RP-7 exhibited plant growth-promoting properties. Indole-3-acetic acid production of 14.0 ± 0.1, 69 ± 1 and 6.4 ± 0.1 µg mL−1 and phosphorus solubilisation of 46, 133 and 158 mg P L−1 were obtained from culture supernatants. Bacterial supernatants increased the root elongation of Lactuca sativa seeds up to 10%. These selected bacteria demonstrated their potential to design a biofertiliser formulation to restore deteriorated horticultural soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With population growth and the contamination of ecosystems by pesticides and chemical fertilisers, agriculture faces the challenge of increasing productivity in a sustainable manner. In response to this demand, the global ecological transition has promoted the use of bio-inputs, such as fungi and bacteria, which are essential for agricultural sustainability. However, the extensive use of herbicides in modern agriculture may compromise the effectiveness of these bio-inputs by interfering with their biochemical pathways. This review compiles and analyses information on the compatibility between herbicides and bio-inputs, focusing on the effects of herbicides on microbiological control agents and biofertilising bacteria. Based on scientific publications from the past four decades, the results indicate that herbicides can significantly interfere with different groups of microorganisms, depending on the variables assessed and the selectivity of the products. To mitigate these impacts, the prioritised use of selective herbicides, bio-inputs protected by specific molecules, and management practices that avoid direct contact between herbicides and bio-inputs is suggested. This study contributes to the understanding of interactions between herbicides and bio-inputs, promoting more sustainable agricultural practices aligned with global objectives for food security and environmental preservation. [Display omitted] • Herbicides compromise bioinoculants, microbial diversity and nitrogen fixation. • Selective herbicides and protective bioinput formulations are crucial for coexistence. • Herbicides threaten microbiological agents unique to sustainable agriculture. • Excessive use of herbicides related to biological pest control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant biostimulants, sometimes referred to as biofertilisers or plant enhancers, are ingredients stimulating plant nutrition processes independently of the product's nutrient content with the sole aim to improve the agronomic performance of a plant. Many of these biostimulants contain microorganisms. Although most of these microorganisms are supposed to only promote plant growth, some have plant protection properties. We reviewed commercial microbial plant biostimulants with regard to their potential effects on insects. This revealed 483 different products and 245 microorganisms registered as microbial plant biostimulants in Hungary, Switzerland, Spain, France, Indonesia, and/or Canada (181 ± 157 products, 64 ± 27 species per country). Among the products, 82% contained bacteria (133 ± 106 products), 63% contained fungi (77 ± 59) and 14% contained protista including algae (23 ± 24). About 1/3rd of products contained mixes of either bacteria, fungi, and/or protista; and 48% contained more than one microorganism. About 53% of products (137 ± 121) contained microorganims that had been reported to have insecticidal properties and 36% of species (23 ± 9), although the underlaying mechanisms often remain unknown. About 67% of products (149 ± 133) contained microorganisms reported to defend a plant from insects, and 54% of species (35 ± 10). The most common biostimulant microorganisms with reported insecticidal effects were strains of Rhizophagus irregularis, followed by Bradyrhizobium japonicum, Rhizobium leguminosarum, Bacillus megaterium, B. subtilis, B. amyloliquefaciens, B. licheniformis, Penicillium bilaiae, B. pumilus and Ascophylum nodosum. In conclusion, growers may profit from, but should be made aware of the multiple effects of microbial plant biostimulants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional logic behind effective microorganism is based on a media inoculation with mixed cultures of beneficial microorganisms to create a more favorable environment for plant growth and health when the media is the soil. Following this rationale, other research works have been focused on studying the effect of effective microorganisms when they are used as manure stabilizing agents, in some cases by including them in animal diets, reporting, in all cases, beneficial properties. However, the use of effective microorganisms is not yet widespread. One reason may be that no rigorous research has so far been done on the actual utility of these mixed cultures on manure stabilization and crop production. In this work, the potential uses of effective microorganisms are shown with the focus on evaluating the influence of these mixed cultures on the biostabilization of manure before its use as fertilizer. This work also presents some new perspectives on the role and application of effective microorganisms as microbial inoculants to achieve a microbiological balance of manure so that it can improve its quality, increasing production and protection of crops when applied as fertilizer, helping to conserving natural resources and creating a more sustainable agriculture and environment. Finally, this document also reviews strategies on how to improve the effect of effective microorganisms after their inoculation into the soil as part of the manure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of our study was to find an optimal combination of tested factors to achieve lettuce rich in bioactive compounds sustaining its pleasant taste. We examined three red and three green cultivars in a greenhouse using two microbiological fertilisers (EM Aktiv and Vital Tricho), and their combination. Plants were grown in three consecutive growing seasons (autumn, winter, and spring). Lactones accumulated in autumn, whereas phenolics’ concentration rose during winter. Red cultivars showed higher phenolics and lactone content, where chicoric acid and luteolin-7-glucoside were the most abundant in the ‘Gaugin’ winter trial. Lactucopicrin was the predominant lactone among tested cultivars with the highest value in the red cultivar ‘Carmesi’. Solely applicated, the fertiliser EM Aktiv and Vital Tricho led to significantly higher phenolic acid and dihydrolactucopicrin content, while combined, there were notably increased levels of all detected lactones. Application of single fertilisers had no effect on flavonoid content, while the combination even reduced it. A sensory analysis showed a negative correlation between overall taste and total sesquiterpene lactones, lactucopicrin, caffeoylmalic, and chlorogenic acid, indicating a less bitter taste with decreasing content of these compounds. Our findings indicate that the cultivar, fertiliser, and growing season jointly affected all of the tested parameters, highlighting the differences in the application of EM Aktiv, Vital Tricho, and their combination.

Biofertiliser is considered a promising biofortification intervention that can integrate with plant breeding as well as agronomic measures to overcome malnutrition in regions where the staple diet is cereal. This study was conducted to improve maize (Zea mays L.) productivity and biofortification with zinc (Zn) through the application of Zn-solubilising biofertilisers. Four pre-isolated, promising Zn-solubilising Bacillus strains, Bacillus sp. ZM20, B. aryabhattai ZM31, B. aryabhattai S10 and B. subtilis ZM63, were coated on maize seeds by forming slurry-based sole- and co-inoculated biofertilisers. The treated maize seeds were grown in a spring season (Trial I) and the experiment was repeated the following year on the same field (Trial II). The seed-applied co-inoculated Bacillus biofertiliser formulations significantly promoted antioxidant enzyme activities (ascorbate peroxidase, peroxidase and superoxide dismutase), growth and yield attributes, and nutrient accumulation in maize grains during both field trials compared with sole-inoculated biofertiliser formulations. Application of ZM31–ZM63 biofertiliser formulation showed a greater increase in these attributes than other biofertiliser formulations, as well as an increase in grain iron (Fe) concentration (up to 1.69-fold in Trial I and 1.77-fold in Trial II) and Zn concentration (up to 1.50-fold in Trial I and 1.41-fold in Trial II) relative to the uninoculated control. Fe and Zn concentrations in maize grains resulting from the application of seed-based Bacillus biofertiliser formulations could fulfill the minimum required level of these nutrients for daily intake. From the study, recommendation can be made to apply Zn-solubilising bioinoculants for the biofortification of maize grains to overcome malnutrition issues in regions with cereal-based staple diets. Plant growth-promoting bacteria are considered a possible promising biofortification intervention to address micronutrient malnutrition. Seed-applied zinc-solubilising Bacillus biofertiliser improved antioxidant enzyme activities and growth and yield attributes of maize, and biofortified maize grains under field conditions. Micronutrient biofortification in maize grains via biofertiliser application could be implemented to overcome malnutrition issues in regions with cereal-based staple diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-year field trial was conducted to study the effects of biohumus, biofertiliser, and soil conditioner application on spelt grain yield in different regions (plain, hilly, and mountainous regions) in Serbia. An analysis of economic efficiency indicators of spelt production in organic farming systems was also performed. The field experiment had a randomised complete block design with three replicates in each of the three regions. One winter spelt cultivar was also studied. The largest differences in spelt yield compared to control were found in the plain region in the biohumus + biofertiliser treatment (28.0%) and the hilly region in the organic fertiliser + zeolite treatment (28.8%). The differences in grain yield between control and treatment conditions in the mountain region were insignificant. Analysis of the economic effects of organic spelt production found a significantly lower gross margin in treatments with expensive organic fertilisers (3955.05 and 1104.75 € ha–1) than the control (5094.31 and 1833.85 € ha–1), leading to the conclusion that their application was not economically justified despite the increases in grain yield. The highest production costs (3569.71 € ha–1) were observed in treatments in the hilly region, resulting in the lowest benefit-cost ratio (0.1), while the greatest benefit-cost ratio was recorded in treatments in the mountainous region (2.1). Following the economic analysis results, a significant negative correlation between the benefit-cost ratio and the total production costs (r= –0.91**) was determined and a positive correlation between the gross margin and grain yield (r=0.66*). These results lead to the conclusion that the management strategy of spelt production in organic farming systems should be harmonised with the soil and agro-ecological characteristics of the region and directed at decreasing the costs and share of external inputs. In this case, organic spelt production can be economically profitable. Highlights - Organic fertilisers and soil conditioners affect spelt grain yield. - The analysis of the economic effects of organic spelt production concluded that fertiliser application was not economically justified despite the increases in grain yield. - Treatments in the plain region displayed the best production results compared to mountain region treatments, but these did not have the best benefit-cost ratio. - Knowledge of production costs is an important element in improving the economic efficiency of organic farming systems.

Purpose: Phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) shortages inhibit crop production, and soil borne plant diseases such as root rot by Fusarium spp. can cause extensive damage to crops. Streptomyces bellus (SB) and S. saprophyticus (SS) solubilize P and K and inhibit sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) associated Fusarium strains in laboratory conditions. Methods: To address their performance in vivo, their effects on sugar beet growth and root rot development was tested. Results: The tested strains showed a significant beneficial effect on growth and yield parameters of sugar beet when mixed in the soil with insoluble natural rock phosphate (RP) and/or K mineral orthoclase (OT). Compared to the non-inoculated treatment, the highest shoot and root dry biomass were recorded with RP+OT+SB. Highest P and K levels in leaves were with OT+SB and RP+SB, and the treatment RP+OT+SB increased both soil P and K. Interestingly, these SS and SB strains exhibited high protection effects of 100% and 75%, respectively, when the soil was infested by F. equiseti and F. fujikuroi, causal agents of root rot disease of sugar beet in Beni Mellal region. Conclusions: These results can be exploited to mitigate the detrimental impacts of nutrient limitation for and disease susceptibility of sugar beet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we reported the isolation and molecular characterisation of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase-producing endophyte and its effect on alleviating drought stress in maize. Ten morphologically distinct indigenous plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) from maize roots and rhizosphere were screened for multiple plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits, and of ten, two strains (DHK and B1N1) possessing maximum PGP traits were evaluated at three water stress regimes in maize: (i) 80% field capacity (FC), (ii) 60% FC, and (iii) 40% FC for 45 days, starting 15 days after sowing to the maturity. Inoculation of DHK strain with maize at 80% FC induced a significant increase in plant biomass (root biomass, 86.67%; shoot biomass, 111.63%) together with decreased reactive oxygen species and increased activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, 14.11 U/g fresh weight; peroxidase, 1.14 U/g fresh weight and catalase; 14.91 U/g fresh weight) compared to uninoculated control at same water regime (80% FC). The derivative strain also significantly accrued nutrients in maize and enhanced total chlorophyll and amino acid content in comparison with non-inoculated plants. 16S rDNA analysis of DHK strain revealed its lineage to Bacillus subtilis. Present investigations demonstrated the potential of the bacterial partner in alleviating drought stress in maize.

Adoption of microbial consortia as plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) instead of single-strain inoculants is discussed as an approach to increase the efficiency and flexibility of PGPM-assisted production strategies. This study provides the functional characterisation of a commercial microbial consortia product (MCP) in a series of greenhouse experiments with maize on a silty-loam field soil (pH 5.9). A 60%-increased abundance of bacteria that could be cultivated after rhizosphere extraction was measured after MCP inoculation at the end of the 42-days culture period. MCP inoculation did not stimulate shoot biomass production of maize fertilised with nitrate, but growth improvement was recorded in combination with stabilised ammonium, especially with reduced phosphorus (P) supply. The MCP inoculant improved the acquisition of ammonium-N but also increased shoot-P. MCP inoculation stimulated root length development under reduced P supply with stabilised ammonium by 52%. This was accompanied by the increased auxin production capacity of rhizosphere bacteria. C-, N-, and P-turnover in the rhizosphere were little affected by the MCP inoculation, as deduced from the analysis of activities of extracellular soil enzymes. The findings suggest that the form of N supply is crucial for the efficiency of plant-MCP interactions.

Microorganisms promised to lead the bio-based revolution for a more sustainable agriculture. Beneficial microorganisms could be a valid alternative to the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. However, the increasing use of microbial inoculants is also raising several questions about their efficacy and their effects on the autochthonous soil microorganisms. There are two major issues on the application of bioinoculants to soil: (i) their detection in soil, and the analysis of their persistence and fate; (ii) the monitoring of the impact of the introduced bioinoculant on native soil microbial communities. This review explores the strategies and methods that can be applied to the detection of microbial inoculants and to soil monitoring. The discussion includes a comprehensive critical assessment of the available tools, based on morpho-phenological, molecular, and microscopic analyses. The prospects for future development of protocols for regulatory or commercial purposes are also discussed, underlining the need for a multi-method (polyphasic) approach to ensure the necessary level of discrimination required to track and monitor bioinoculants in soil.

The integration of healthy management alternatives continues to be a challenge in the organic production of aromatic and medicinal plants, including of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.). The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of three beneficial microorganisms (1) Trichoderma harzianum (TH), (2) Bacillus subtilis (BS), (3) Glomus cubense (GC) and their combinations on the growth of basil. A completely randomised design was used with a control and seven treatments with six repetitions. The control (1) was with no microorganism inoculation and the seven treatments were inoculations with the single or the combined microorganisms as follows: (2) TH, (3) BS, (4) GC, (5) TH+BS, (6) TH+GC, (7) BS+GC and (8) TH+BS+GC. Three harvests of fresh biomass were made and a number of growth variables were recorded: fresh and dry biomass, leaf area, number of commercial stems, stem length and thickness, Leaf length and width, relative chlorophyll concentration (SPAD readings) and the levels of N, P, K, Ca and Mg. Overall growth increased by 58% with TH+GC compared with the control and by 55% compared with the single inoculations (TH, BS and GC) and with the triple inoculation (TH+BS+GC). A growth increase of 51% was obtained with BS+GC compared with the control and of 38% compared with the other treatments. These results indicate co-inoculation of TH+GC or of BS+GC are useful alternative managements to increase greenhouse production of basil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are strains of naturally occurring soil bacteria that live in close vicinity to the plant's rhizosphere region which possess the capability to augment host growth. This study was conducted to isolate and identify potential PGPR isolates indigenous to Metroxylon sagu, Rottb. rhizosphere. These potential isolates were characterised based on their beneficial plant growth promoting (PGP) properties and identified by molecular analysis via 16S rDNA sequencing. A total of 18 isolates were successfully isolated, out of which five isolates were tested, and designated as (S1A, S2B, S3A, S3C and S42). Among the five isolates, two isolates (S2B and S3C) were found to produce high levels of indole-3-acetic acid (2.96 µg/mL and 10.31 μg/mL), able to fix nitrogen and show significant activity in phosphate solubilisation. The analysis of their sequences via National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) suggested their close identity towards Lysinibacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis. It can be concluded that the isolated PGPR possesses beneficial PGP attributes. It can be implied that the isolated PGPR are potential to be used as inoculant biofertilisers, beneficial for Metroxylon sagu, Rottb. growth. Hence, further studies need to be done to evaluate the effectiveness of the beneficial microbes towards sago seedlings growth, under pot experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms promised to lead the bio-based revolution for a more sustainable agriculture. Beneficial microorganisms could be a valid alternative to the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. However, the increasing use of microbial inoculants is also raising several questions about their efficacy and their effects on the autochthonous soil microorganisms. There are two major issues on the application of bioinoculants to soil: (i) their detection in soil, and the analysis of their persistence and fate; (ii) the monitoring of the impact of the introduced bioinoculant on native soil microbial communities. This review explores the strategies and methods that can be applied to the detection of microbial inoculants and to soil monitoring. The discussion includes a comprehensive critical assessment of the available tools, based on morpho-phenological, molecular, and microscopic analyses. The prospects for future development of protocols for regulatory or commercial purposes are also discussed, underlining the need for a multi-method (polyphasic) approach to ensure the necessary level of discrimination required to track and monitor bioinoculants in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P), an essential macronutrient for all living organisms, is required in large amounts for the growth and development of plants. Although total soil P level is high, P bioavailability to plants is suboptimal in most soils because of high fixation rates into inorganic and organic insoluble complexes. Hence, plants are highly dependent on mechanisms that allow them to adapt to low‐phosphate stress and/or achieve suitable levels of soluble P on the root surface. In this regard, the rhizospheric microbiota plays a key role in facilitating P nutrition and has long been recognised for their potential use as an environmental‐friendly alternative to chemical P fertilisation. Herein, we outline the advances in the identification of phosphate solubilising bacteria and phosphate mineralising bacteria, collectively known as phosphobacteria, and their role in rendering P accessible to plants. We review and discuss research progress related to the introduction of phosphobacteria and/or P‐mineralising enzymes into soil, as well as plant transformation with bacterial genes that encode such enzymes, as strategies to improve plant growth and P nutrition. We also provide an overview of studies about the impact of variations in soil P levels on the structure of soil and rhizospheric microbial communities and the potential consequences of such perturbations on plant growth. Finally, we discuss possible directions for future research to optimise the efficiency of biofertilisation strategies based on the use of phosphobacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we reported the isolation and molecular characterisation of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase-producing endophyte and its effect on alleviating drought stress in maize. Ten morphologically distinct indigenous plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) from maize roots and rhizosphere were screened for multiple plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits, and of ten, two strains (DHK and B1N1) possessing maximum PGP traits were evaluated at three water stress regimes in maize: (i) 80% field capacity (FC), (ii) 60% FC, and (iii) 40% FC for 45 days, starting 15 days after sowing to the maturity. Inoculation of DHK strain with maize at 80% FC induced a significant increase in plant biomass (root biomass, 86.67%; shoot biomass, 111.63%) together with decreased reactive oxygen species and increased activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, 14.11 U/g fresh weight; peroxidase, 1.14 U/g fresh weight and catalase; 14.91 U/g fresh weight) compared to uninoculated control at same water regime (80% FC). The derivative strain also significantly accrued nutrients in maize and enhanced total chlorophyll and amino acid content in comparison with non-inoculated plants. 16S rDNA analysis of DHK strain revealed its lineage to Bacillus subtilis. Present investigations demonstrated the potential of the bacterial partner in alleviating drought stress in maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adoption of microbial consortia as plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) instead of singlestrain inoculants is discussed as an approach to increase the efficiency and flexibility of PGPM-assisted production strategies. This study provides the functional characterisation of a commercial microbial consortia product (MCP) in a series of greenhouse experiments with maize on a silty-loam field soil (pH 5.9). A 60%-increased abundance of bacteria that could be cultivated after rhizosphere extraction was measured after MCP inoculation at the end of the 42-days culture period. MCP inoculation did not stimulate shoot biomass production of maize fertilised with nitrate, but growth improvement was recorded in combination with stabilised ammonium, especially with reduced phosphorus (P) supply. The MCP inoculant improved the acquisition of ammonium-N but also increased shoot-P. MCP inoculation stimulated root length development under reduced P supply with stabilised ammonium by 52%. This was accompanied by the increased auxin production capacity of rhizosphere bacteria. C-, N-, and P-turnover in the rhizosphere were little affected by the MCP inoculation, as deduced from the analysis of activities of extracellular soil enzymes. The findings suggest that the form of N supply is crucial for the efficiency of plant-MCP interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To show the benefits of organic agriculture, safe and sustainable production, the present research was performed in an open field (new reclaimed area of desert) of Wadi El-Notron, Beheira Governorate, Egypt, for two successive years (2013 and 2014) aimed at a better understanding and to investigate the role of alternative source of chemical fertilisers represented by humic substances, natural nano-zeolite-loaded nitrogen and biofertilisers (HNB) on yield, morphological, leaf and seed anatomy, chemical compositions reflected in macro and micro nutrients, indigenous hormones, plant pigments, total carbohydrates, ascorbic acid, thiamine, total phenolics, total flavonoids, total fatty acids, oil yield and constituents of caraway (Carum carvi L.) plants. Our results revealed that plants receiving a combination treatment (HNB) recorded significant increases over control in both growing seasons. Moreover, economic evaluation reflects the profound influence of combination treatment (HNB) that realized the maximum gross income and minimum production cost. These findings emphasize the magnitude of the role of natural soil additions and organic fertilisers in mitigating environmental pollution while providing safe production and also minimizing total costs of chemical fertilisers.

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'Algae Service for LIFE', the project supported by the European Union, seeks to promote best practices in ecological service and the circular economy by implementing innovative complex system of three interlinked elements: i) prototypes for harvesting of cyanobacteria and macroalgae biomass; ii) distant methods for surveying of the blooms and defining hot-spots of algal agglomerations; and iii) restitution of harvesting costs by redesigning of waste algal biomass into valuable products. The current paper describes application of algal biomass part of the project by providing actions in redesigning of harvested waste biomass of cyanobacteria and macroalgae into potential valuable products for sustainable management and recycling of environmental resources. It also highlights the socio-economic aspects of the project and added value of the project for the European Union. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facing phosphate rock scarcity, growing food requirements and pollution problems with phosphorus (P)-containing waste, re-using P as fertiliser is becoming a real need. Innovative fertilisers from sewage sludge ash, animal bones and blood, activated by phosphorus solubilising microorganisms (PSM), were tested in field experiments with winter or spring wheat and compared with commercial fertilisers (superphosphate, phosphorite). Three levels of P doses were established (17.6, 26.4 and 35.2 kg/ha). This paper discusses the fertilisers' impact on total soil P content and on the P content and P accumulation in wheat grain and straw, weeds and post-harvest residues. Recycled fertilisers maintained soil P stocks and supplied plants with P in the same way as traditional fertilisers, and ensured a comparable P pool in the post-harvest residues to traditional fertilisers. They also did not favour weeds during competitive crop-weed interactions. The PSM included in waste-fertilisers did not exert an evident effect on the soil P content or on the P content and P accumulation in plant biomass. The findings show the potential of recycled fertilisers to act as a substitute to fertilisers from primary sources. Further field research is needed to settle the question of the reasonability of PSM inclusion into fertilisers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The paper has the role to promote certain sustainable production systems, diversified and balanced, in order to prevent pollution of agricultural crops, the environment, the conversion of agri-food waste (whey) into veterinary medical products as well as the implementation of green, non-polluting technologies in the agricultural sector. The purpose of this work is to present and use the newest innovative technologies into the agricultural field and replace the traditional polluting products (chemical fertilizers), so that the farmers can reaches a much greater potential over the recorded productions. The alternative to the chemical fertilizers is fertilizer based on bacterial cultures. In agriculture, the main source of nutrition is the nutrients. These are the basis for the growth and development of cultural plants, and they are indispensable to any form of life. On the other hand, the amount of nutrients at some point in time may decrease or increase depending on certain pedoclimatic factors, soil typology, the ability of plants to return some of the nutrients consumed (by the decomposition of crop residues) and so on. Food safety, a normal objective for any man, farm and enterprise, is aimed to producing sufficient, varied and cheap food, corresponding to the physiological requirements and purchasing power of any person. In the developed countries, this objective has been achieved and often exceeded substantially by promoting intensive systems for both land cultivation, animal husbandry and veterinary medicine, as well as modern methods of processing and marketing agricultural products. Mechanization, chemization, animal husbandry technologies, technologies for applying treatments, growing plants and raising more and more productive animals, and modernizing processing and marketing systems have contributed, first and foremost, to improving human living conditions, as much as volume. and diversity of agri-food products, as well as accessible to buyers. In order to protect the environment and the agri-food health and safety of humans and animals, the company Romvac Company S.A has developed a series of innovative technologies with the help of the farmer have obtained certain ecological products for their use in the agro-zoo-veterinary field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane is a long-duration, huge biomass accumulating crop and requires a number of cultural and management operations from planting to harvesting. It is also a wonder crop where after harvesting of the main crop, the subsequent ratoon crop is generated through established root system. Adoption of green technologies is a viable option to improve sugarcane productivity and sustainability. Fine-tuning the green technologies, different methods/techniques of crop production, planting methods (cane node/STP technologies and planting through Cutter Planter), nutrient management strategies (intercropping, green manuring, press mud, bio-compost, bio-fertilizers, etc.), insect-pest and disease management options (cultural and physical methods, use of bio-agents, bio-pesticides, botanicals, light/pheromone or combo traps, etc.) and management of adverse climatic conditions (drought and flood) and/or crop residue recycling and trash management technologies may not only improve soil health and cane productivity but are also eco-friendly and environmentally safe. These green technological interventions are being applied in sugarcane and sugarcane-based production system in the country. Improvement in the crop productivity vis-a-vis sustaining natural resources is key components to be addressed through these technologies. Thus, reduction in cost of production, improvement in soil health, increased crop productivity and overall improvement in cane sugar productivity and farmers' income would be possible through the adoption of green technologies. The established green technologies in sugarcane production system and pre- and post-harvest management have potential to improve cane yield and sugar recovery besides enhancing farmer's income and sustainability. In this present paper, various aspects of increasing sugarcane and sugar yields, reducing cost of production and increasing farmers' income through the adoption of green technologies have been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pepper has a relatively large share in the general structure of the vegetable production in Bulgaria. The objective of this research was to investigate the influence of biofertiliser Emosan (HemoZym NK, Hemozym Bio N5) in combination with biofertilisers Lumbrical and Boneprot, as well as the influence of certain agrometeorological conditions on the phenological growth of pepper cv. ‘Sofiiska Kapiya’. This experiment was carried out in 2009 – 2011 on the experimental fields of the Agroecological Centre at the Agricultural University Plovdiv (Bulgaria). The pepper was grown using existing technology for mid-early field production, according to the principles of organic agriculture. The agroclimatic characteristics were taken on the basis of data of twenty-four-hour performance of meteorological factors. In the three years of the experiment the temperature conditions during the period of active vegetation of the pepper (June - July - August) were above the average, which was in conjunction with the global trends. The application of biofertiliser Emosan, in combination with basic fertilization with biofertilisers Boneprot and Lumbrical and under the impact of suitable agrometeorological conditions, had a positive impact on the pepper plants. Pepper plants showed earlier entry into the main phenophases under field conditions of organic farming.

The use of intensive chemistry in the agricultural field was a first cause of pollution in the agricultural field. In order to move towards sustainable, environmentally friendly agriculture, farmers took into account the use of alternatives to chemical fertilizers, green, green and non-polluting alternatives. Thus, so-called ecological fertilizers, green fertilizers, soil-friendly, agricultural crops, production and, implicitly, for humans and animals have emerged. The alternative to chemical fertilizers is fertilizer based on bacterial cultures. In agriculture, the main source of nutrition is the nutrients. These are the basis for the growth and development of cultural plants, and they are indispensable to any form of life. On the other hand, the amount of nutrients at some point in time may decrease or increase depending on certain pedo-climatic factors, soil typology, the ability of plants to return some of the nutrients consumed (by the decomposition of crop residues) and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, responsible for enhancing plant nutrition, vigour and growth, may be used to reduce dosages of chemical fertilisers. Technologies that allow an economically viable and efficient application of these beneficial microbes in large scale agriculture must be studied. Seed coating is a potential delivery system for efficiently introducing minor amounts of bioinoculants. Despite the dramatic reduction on inoculum dose per plant, inoculation of AM fungi via seed coating was as effective as conventional soil inoculation. Fertilisation and inoculation had a significant impact on maize shoots nutrient concentrations. Different fertilisation regimes did not influence mycorrhizal colonisation. Plants without fertilisation and singly inoculated with R. irregularis showed shoot nutrient concentration increments of 110, 93, 88 and 175% for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and zinc, respectively, comparing with non-inoculated controls. Plants singly inoculated with P. fluorescens via seed coating under full fertilisation, presented enhancements of 100, 75 and 141% for magnesium, zinc and manganese, respectively, comparing with non-inoculated controls. Seed coating is a promising tool for delivering microbial inoculants into the soil, while promoting sustainable production of maize. This technology is particularly pertinent in low input agriculture, with potential environmental profits and food quality improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]