Technology Commercialization and Partnerships | BSA 10-05: Enterobacter sp. 638 for Enhancement of Plant Growth

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Categories: biotechnology & health, environment

BSA 10-05: Enterobacter sp. 638 for Enhancement of Plant Growth

BNL Reference Number: BSA 10-05

Patent Status: Application Number WO2011/112781 A2 was published on September 15, 2011

Summary

Effects of Enterobacter sp. 638 on the rooting and shoot formation of poplar DN-34. Plants were incubated hydroponically in half-strength Hoagland's solution in the absence (Control) or presence of Enterobacter sp. 638. Root and shoot development are presented after 1 (A) and 10 (B) weeks.

Inoculation of plants with a novel strain of Enterobacteria (Enterobacter sp. 638) results in an initial increase in plant growth rate. Root mass appears to be most affected by inoculation, perhaps resulting in better nourishment of plant seedlings. Early flowering and fruit production is stimulated.

Description

Many plant endophytic bacteria live in symbiotic relationships with their host plants. This novel species, Enterobacter sp. 638 appears to stimulate growth in many different plant species after first being found to stimulate growth and development of poplar trees.

Benefits

Growth and survival of plant seedlings, particularly in marginal lands, is important to agriculture, crop production and alternative sources of biomass and development of biofuels. With the burgeoning world population, an increased demand on natural methods for enhancement of crop productivity is much needed. The inoculation of plants with this endophyte may contribute to increased crop productivity.

Applications and Industries

The applications of this technology to increased crop productivity is under investigation in several scenarios. It may be applicable to crops of various types as well as plants for specialty uses, such as renewable chemicals, biofuels and even ornamental plants.