Isolation, Characterization of Rhizobium and Mesorhizobium Associated with Pisum Sativum L. Pea and Cicer Aeritinum L. Chickpea and Their Stress Response to Heavy Metal and High Salt Concentration

Nitrogen is essential micronutrient for plant growth and development. Leguminous plant, having rhizobia associated with the root as nodules maintains mutual symbiosis. Biological Nitrogen Fixation helps to increase agricultural productivity and food security. Pea and Brown chickpea as plant samples were studied for isolation, identification, biochemical characterization of Rhizobium and Mesorhizobium strains. Based on white mucoid growth on the specific YEMA medium and gram staining depicted rod shaped cells in microscopic view. The microorganisms were further characterized by Biochemical tests according to Bergy’s Manual of Bacteriology namely Catalase test, Starch hydrolysis test, Methyl red test, Gelatin test, Indole test. The effect of NaCl and as metal (lead, Pb) stress were assessed on bacterial growth culture. Finally, mass production of the bacteria was done followed by mixing with the carrier materials for preparation of efficient Biofertilizer. Thus, the present work targets the problem of heavy metal pollution and high salt concentration in the Agricultural fields, focusing on preparation of an efficient Biofertilizer which can enhance productivity and plant yield even in the said stress conditions.