Bacillus amyloliquefaciens

Introduction

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens is a powerful plant growth-promoting bacterium that enhances nutrient uptake, induces systemic resistance, and protects against a wide range of plant pathogens. With a high capacity for producing phytohormones and antifungal lipopeptides, it is a cornerstone in sustainable agriculture, especially in integrated nutrient and pest management programs.

Scientific Description

This gram-positive, aerobic, endospore-forming bacterium belongs to the Bacillus subtilis group. It is known for producing bioactive compounds including:

• IAA, gibberellins, and cytokinins
• Lipopeptides such as surfactin, iturin, and fengycin (antifungal)
• Antibacterial polyketides
• Enzymes that degrade fungal cell walls

It actively colonizes plant roots and enhances root development, nutrient solubilization, and disease tolerance.

Benefits

• Suppresses Root and Foliar Diseases: Effective against Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Pythium, and Botrytis.
• Stimulates Root Growth: Produces auxins and gibberellins that enhance root hair development.
• Improves Nutrient Uptake: Helps mobilize phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients.
• Induces Systemic Resistance: Activates plant defense pathways (ISR).
• Compatible With Other Inputs: Pairs well with mycorrhizae, Trichoderma, and nitrogen fixers.

Uses

• Crops: Vegetables (tomato, chili, brinjal), cereals (rice, maize), banana, cotton, pulses, oilseeds.
• Application:
  • Seed treatment: 5–10 g/kg seed
  • Soil application: 2–5 kg/acre with compost or FYM
  • Root dip or nursery drench: 5–10 g/L water
  • Drip irrigation: 1–2 L/acre (liquid formulation)
• Timing: Ideal during sowing/transplanting or early vegetative stages

Trivia

• Closely related to B. subtilis, but with stronger antifungal traits.
• Some strains are used in biocontrol sprays for powdery mildew and damping-off in nurseries.
• Tolerant to a wide range of pH and salinity — performs well in varied soil conditions.