Azotobacter chroococcum F8/2: a multitasking bacterial strain in sugar beet biopriming

ABSTRACT This study assesses the effects of Azotobacter biopriming on the early development of sugar beet. Azotobacter chroococcum F8/2 was screened for plant growth promoting characteristics and biopriming effects were estimated through germination parameters and the structural changes of the root tissues. A. chroococcum F8/2 was characterized as a contributor to nitrogen, iron, and potassium availability, as well as a producer of auxin and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxilic acid deaminase. Applied biopriming had reduced mean germination time by 34.44% and increased vigor I by 90.99% compared to control. Volatile blend comprised 47.67% ethanol, 32.01% 2-methyl-propanol, 17.32% 3-methyl-1-butanol, and a trace of 2,3-butanedione. Root micromorphological analysis of bioprimed sugar beet revealed a considerable increase in primary, secondary xylem area, and vessels size. Obtained results determine A. chroococcum F8/2 as a successful biopriming agent, and active participant in nutrient availability and hormonal status modulation affecting root vascular tissue.