Development and
evaluation of Rhizobium pusense and Ciceribacter thiooxidans-based biofertilizer
formulation for growth of Vigna radiata
Borah Nayana
Res. J. Chem. Environ.; Vol. 30(1); 115-122;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/301rjce1150122; (2026)
Abstract
The present study aims to evaluate the biofertilizer potential of microbes in promoting
the growth of Vigna radiata. Soil was collected from the rhizosphere soil and root
nodules of Vigna unguiculata. After molecular characterization, identified strains
were cultured and incorporated into vermicompost and vermiwash carriers to formulate
biofertilizers. Small-scale experiments were performed to compare the compatibility
of vermicompost and vermiwash to act as carrier material for microbes. Pilot-scale
evaluations were conducted to identify the best biofertilizer formulation to improve
plant growth. The most effective formulation was assessed against Fertiliser Control
Order standards to ensure safety and quality. Molecular characterisation and phylogenetic
analysis confirmed the presence of Rhizobium pusense (Accession no: MN-460364) and
Ciceribacter thiooxidans (Accession no: NR-159178). Small-scale experiments noted
that vermicompost worked better than vermiwash and vermicompost containing C. thiooxidans
(ST4), recording a 50% rise in shoot, root and total plant length compared to the
control.
Pilot study recorded that consortium of R. pusense and C. thiooxidans (1.0 mL each)
with vermicompost yielded the greatest improvements in total plant length (+66%)
and root development (+233.3%) relative to controls. Physical, chemical and nutrient
profiles of biofertilizer formulation (PT10) containing the consortium were found
to be comparable to kitchen compost as per FCO.
