Novel probiotics to enhance soyabean and maize crop growth and development
A research-driven solution developing microbial crop probiotics that fix atmospheric nitrogen to boost soyabean and maize yields. By leveraging naturally occurring nitrogen-fixing bacteria, the approach reduces fertilizer dependency, lowers costs for farmers, and minimizes environmental pollution without altering crop genetics.
Overview
This solution addresses the growing need for sustainable agriculture by developing novel probiotics for soyabean and maize, two of the most widely consumed staple crops globally. The approach harnesses naturally occurring nitrogen-fixing microbes to enhance nutrient absorption, reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers, and maintain the natural genetic makeup of crops. By improving nitrogen availability in the soil, farmers can achieve healthier crop development while lowering input costs and reducing the environmental damage caused by fertilizer runoff and ozone-depleting emissions.
Technical specifications
- Microbial identification: Metagenomic analysis of soil and rhizosphere samples from soyabean and maize fields identified key nitrogen-fixing bacteria, including Sporolactobacillus, Enterobacter, Fusarium, Flavobacterium, Azospirillum, Rhizobium, and Endobacter.
- Crop-specific probiotics: Unique microbial combinations tailored for each crop, with Sporolactobacillus (~10%) supporting nitrogenase activity in soyabean and Enterobacter combined with Fusarium (~2%) aiding nitrogen fixation in maize.
- Key microbial functions:
- Flavobacterium enhances crop yield by 30–37%.
- Rhizobium and Azospirillum convert atmospheric nitrogen into plant-absorbable forms.
- Endobacter contributes to high salt tolerance, supporting resilience in challenging soil conditions.
- Non-genetic modification: The probiotics work by enriching the soil microbiome and supporting plant colonization without manipulating the genetic makeup of the crops.
- Environmental benefits: Reduces fertilizer waste, prevents nutrient runoff pollution, and lowers the carbon footprint associated with synthetic fertilizer production and use.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at an early stage of development. Initial microbial identification and characterization have been completed using deposited metagenomic data. The next critical step involves field validation: raising soyabean and maize crops under real growing conditions, collecting samples at regular intervals for sequencing, and confirming the preliminary findings. Designed probiotics will then be inoculated into fertile soil, with crop growth and development monitored to assess efficacy and allow iterative refinement of the microbial formulations. Successful field validation will pave the way for market introduction of a promising, sustainable crop probiotic product.
About R.V. College of Engineering
RV College of Engineering (RVCE) is an autonomous, self‑financing engineering institution in Bengaluru, affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University and accredited NAAC A+. It connects to industry through an active Industry Institute Interaction Cell, 150+ MoUs, and co‑located, industry‑sponsored labs and Centers of Excellence that enable joint training, prototyping, and upskilling on campus. Proximity to Bengaluru’s technology cluster supports internships, capstone co‑supervision, and consultancy engagements throughout the year. Research here is supported by competitive national programs and industry, including DRDO/NRB, AICTE, and ISRO collaborations. An IP Coordination Cell, together with incubation resources and a student‑run Entrepreneurship Development Cell, assists with patenting, licensing, and venture formation.
delivered to your inbox.