Plant growth-promoting rhizospheric fungi (PGPRFs) are fungi mainly present in the soil rhizosphere. Through their mutual interaction with plants, these fungi provide a range of developmental benefits, yet some species of the fungi are harmful. The current study had nine fungi isolated, where five strains were from the rhizosphere and the remaining strains were from the bulk soil of maize (Zea mays L.). The research also tested maize seedlings against rhizospheric and bulk soil fungi. The Rhizo Brown and Bulk Gray have shown the highest growth rate compared to all other fungi. Association of isolates with host plants increased growth kinetics and biomass production, as measured by root length (36%), shoot length (37%), fresh weight (37%), dry weight (43%), and chlorophyll (67%) content. Besides, the association also promoted the biosynthesis of Indole Acetic Acid (46%) and Gibberellic acid (30%), improving the nutritional quality in maize. Results of the growth of the fungal strain on the agar plate indicated the absence of their antagonistic effect on each other’s growth. It was evident that combining both fungi can serve as bioinoculants to promote plant growth. The interaction between seeds and fungi confirmed the roots of the seedlings move toward the fungus, suggesting a beneficial plant-microbe interaction. Study results revealed that the rhizospheric and bulk soil fungi were plant growth-promoting fungi, improving agricultural productivity and are marketable for wider use in farming practices in Pakistan.
Rhizosphere, bulk soil, maize (Z. mays L.), IAA (Indole-3-acetic acid), GA (gibberellic acid), nutritional quality, plant-microbe interaction
The isolates of rhizospheric and bulk soil fungi promoted the growth of maize (Z. mays L.) seedlings by increasing root and shoot length, biomass, and chlorophyll content. These fungi also increased the production of plant hormones in maize and colonized its roots. The presented study identified these fungi as promising tools for promoting maize growth and potentially improving agricultural practices.