Improved tomato root biomass after 21 days of salinity test
Invention Summary:
Rutgers University scientists have identified two new bacterial strains that can express 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase, and a plant growth hormone. Its efficacy has been tested to benefit maize, tomato, and creeping bentgrass, a type of turfgrass.
In particular, application of this biofertilizer can increase plant growth in terms of shoot biomass and root growth under low fertility, and enhance tolerance to heat stress, drought, and salinity stress. Bacteria present in fertilizer can decrease ACC, an ethylene precursor, which helps protect plants from environmental and soil stresses. Further, they can release auxins that support plant growth.
Market Applications:
Increasing shoot biomass, root growth, and plant tolerance to abiotic stresses in:
- Agriculture
- Tomatoes
- Turfgrass
- Maize
Advantages:
- No negative environment impact from natural microbes, without chemical inputs and runoff
- No known toxicity to plants and humans
- Long lasting effect on plants
- Economical
- Can be combined with other fertilizers and fungicides
- Shelf-stable
- Increases plant productivity and quality in infertile, saline soils and dry and hot environments
Intellectual Property & Development Status:
Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration.
