Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) have found an innovative eco-friendly solution to address soil contamination and boost agricultural productivity. Their recent study, published in Environmental Technology & Innovation, highlights the ability of specific bacterial species to break down harmful pollutants in the soil while simultaneously promoting plant health and growth. This dual approach provides a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides and fertilizers, paving the way for healthier soil and stronger crops.
The research focuses on soil contamination caused by aromatic compounds- toxic pollutants commonly found in pesticides and industrial by-products from sectors such as cosmetics, textiles, and petroleum. These compounds are highly toxic, affecting seed germination, plant growth, and yield, while also accumulating in crops and biomass. Conventional methods to address this issue, such as chemical treatments and soil removal, are costly and largely ineffective.
Under the guidance of Prof. Prashant Phale from the Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, researchers identified bacterial strains, particularly from the Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter genera, capable of breaking down these pollutants into harmless compounds. These bacteria, isolated from contaminated soils, act as nature’s cleaning agents, consuming pollutants and converting them into non-toxic forms. “They are natural cleaners of polluted environments,” explained Prof. Phale, emphasizing their efficiency in restoring soil health. The research was carried out by PhD researcher Sandesh Papade under his supervision.
In addition to pollutant degradation, these bacteria offer several agricultural benefits. They convert insoluble nutrients like phosphorus and potassium into plant-absorbable forms, produce iron-absorbing siderophores, and release growth hormones like indoleacetic acid (IAA). Together, these actions fertilize the soil, boost plant health, and significantly enhance crop yield. Trials with bacterial mixtures demonstrated up to a 50% increase in the growth of crops such as wheat, mung bean, spinach, and fenugreek.
The researchers also discovered that these bacteria serve as a natural defense against plant fungal diseases, which account for substantial global crop losses annually. By producing enzymes and hydrogen cyanide, the bacteria effectively inhibit harmful fungi without harming the environment, unlike traditional chemical fungicides. “These bacteria are eco-friendly defenders of plants, targeting only the harmful fungi,” remarked Prof. Phale.
Although the research findings hold significant promise for real-world applications, Prof. Phale believes that “it will take some time for widespread adoption, as the technology will need to be scaled up, tested in different environments, and made available as commercial products.”
In the future, researchers aim to explore how these beneficial bacteria could assist plants in overcoming droughts and other environmental stressors. They also plan to develop user-friendly "bio-formulations," which will combine the bacteria with natural materials, ensuring durability and ease of use for farmers in agricultural fields.
(Source: IIT Bombay)
