Enhancing tomato (Solanum lycopersicum (L.) Mill. agroproductivity: A scientific exploration of native Rhizobium biofertilizers Rhizobial biofertilizers in tomato crop

Resumen

Objective: To evaluate the effect of applying native bacterial strains as biofertilizers on the growth and yield of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) cultivated under conventional agricultural practices through a field experiment.

Design/methodology/approach: Soil fertility was assessed by analyzing physicochemical parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity, cation exchange capacity (CEC), total carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and the C/N ratio, using standardized laboratory methods. Additionally, the ability of native Rhizobium strains to act as Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria (PGPB) was evaluated through nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, auxin synthesis, siderophore production, and ACC deaminase activity tests. The biofertilization trial involved three treatments with different native Rhizobium strains, a chemical fertilizer control (Triple 17), and a non-inoculated control. Growth, chlorophyll content, and yield parameters were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test (p<0.05).

Results: The soil exhibited slight clay characteristics, variable pH, and cation exchange capacity, with low nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) content. Native Rhizobium strains demonstrated significant potential as PGPB, showing nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) synthesis, and siderophore production. Biofertilization with these strains significantly improved (p<0.05) tomato plant growth, chlorophyll content, and fruit quality compared to controls.

Limitations on study/implications: Unusual climatic variations, limited irrigation access, and subpar phytotechnical management affect tomato crop yields due to significant genetic variability. Evaluating biofertilization in various production cycles is crucial.

Findings/conclusions: Native Rhizobium biofertilizers enhance tomato growth and quality, addressing agroproductivity challenges.