Isolation and functional characterization of plant-growth-promoting bacteria from indigenous Hariana cow dung for sustainable agricultural applications

Abstract

This study investigated the microbial potential of indigenous Hariana cow dung for sustainable agricultural applications. Microbial isolates from Hariana dung demonstrated multifunctional traits, including zinc, phosphate, and potassium solubilization, along with nitrogen fixation. Noteworthy strains such as Brachybacterium paraconglomeratum, Shigella dysenteriae, Bacillus safensis and Escherichia marmotae were identified, highlighting the diversity and functional richness of the microbial community. These isolates (except S. dysenteriae: pathogenic) may contribute to nutrient mobilization and organic matter decomposition, thereby enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant growth. The presence of multi-activity strains offered a promising alternative to chemical fertilizers by integrating nutrient solubilization with biological nitrogen enrichment. Observations also revealed significant variation in microbial traits, underscoring the value of indigenous cattle as reservoirs of plant-growth-promoting bacteria. This work lays the foundation for harnessing indigenous microbiota derived from native cow dung to develop biofertilizers to improve soil health for better productivity.