PRODUCT
Paenibacillus azotofixans
Versatile Nitrogen-Fixing and Growth-Promoting Bacterium
Paenibacillus azotofixans is a Gram-positive, spore-forming, nitrogen-fixing bacterium that promotes plant growth across a wide range of crops. Unlike symbiotic rhizobia that depend on legumes, P. azotofixans is a free-living soil bacterium capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen independently. Its robust metabolic activity, spore-forming resilience, and multifaceted plant-growth-promoting traits make it ideal for agriculture, reforestation, composting, and soil regeneration systems.
Biology & Mode of Action
Paenibacillus azotofixans is a Gram-positive, spore-forming, nitrogen-fixing bacterium that promotes plant growth across a wide range of crops. Unlike symbiotic rhizobia that depend on legumes, P. azotofixans is a free-living soil bacterium capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen independently. Its robust metabolic activity, spore-forming resilience, and multifaceted plant-growth-promoting traits make it ideal for agriculture, reforestation, composting, and soil regeneration systems.
Benefits to Agriculture
Biological Nitrogen Fixation
Fixes up to 80–120 kg N/ha/season, supplying nitrogen naturally to both legume and non-legume crops such as maize, wheat, rice, and vegetables.
Improved Nutrient Uptake
Enhances phosphorus, zinc, and iron availability through organic acid and siderophore production, supporting balanced plant nutrition.
Plant Growth Promotion
Stimulates root elongation and branching through IAA and gibberellin production, leading to stronger plant establishment and better water and nutrient absorption.
Enhanced Stress Tolerance
Improves plant resilience under drought, salinity, and nutrient deficiency by modulating osmotic balance and antioxidant systems.
Biofertilizer Production
A cornerstone strain in multi-functional biofertilizer formulations, P. azotofixans enhances both nitrogen and phosphorus cycling, suitable for cereals, vegetables, and industrial crops.
Waste Management and Composting
Its enzymatic activity accelerates the breakdown of organic matter, improving compost nutrient profiles and nitrogen content.
Forestry and Reforestation
Used in seedling nurseries to enhance root development and early growth in trees and shrubs, particularly in degraded or nutrient-poor soils.
Animal Feed and Soil Amendment
Residues or composts enriched with P. azotofixans exhibit higher protein and nitrogen levels, supporting sustainable feed and soil systems.
Industrial Applications
Future Research and Applications
Research continues to expand the use of Paenibacillus azotofixans in precision agriculture and climate-resilient cropping systems, with promising areas including:
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Co-inoculation with phosphate- and potassium-solubilizing bacteria for full nutrient balance.
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Biofilm-based carrier formulations for extended soil activity and field stability.
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Use in regenerative soil programs to rehabilitate degraded agricultural land.
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Integration into compost bioaugmentation systems for nutrient recycling and waste reduction.