Co-inoculation with Rhizobium and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) for inducing salinity tolerance in mung bean under field condition of semi arid climate

Salinity stress severely affects the growth, nodulation and yield of mung bean (Vigna radiata L.). However, inoculation/co-inoculation with rhizobia and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) containing 1-Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase improve the plant growth by reducing the stress induced ethylene production through ACC-deaminase activity. A study was conducted under salt affected field condition where pre-isolated strains of Rhizobium and PGPR were used alone as well as in combination for mitigating the salinity stress on growth, nodulation and yield of mung bean by following the randomized complete block design (RCBD). Results revealed that single and combine inoculation enhanced the 1000 grain weight and grain yield up to 14 and 30%, respectively, compared to un-inoculated control. Moreover, nodulation, relative water content (RWC) and total dry matter (TDM) were improved in case of inoculated/co-inoculated plant. Similarly, improved protein content (48%) and K/Na ratio (95%) in grain were observed by single and combine inoculation. Thus, inoculation/co-inoculation with rhizobium and PGPR could be a sustainable approach to improve plant growth under salinity stress.