Exploration and Biochemical Profiling of Native Azotobacter and Azospirillum Isolates from Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh Soils

Abstract

This study focused on isolating and characterizing native plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) from soils of Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing Azotobacter and Azospirillum species. A total of nine isolates were obtained through standard serial dilution and streak plating on Jensen’s and Okon’s media. Comprehensive morphological and biochemical analyses, including Gram staining, catalase activity, starch hydrolysis, citrate utilization, and methyl red test, were conducted for each isolate. Observed variations in colony characteristics and biochemical reactions revealed notable diversity among the isolates. These findings highlight the potential of locally adapted PGPR strains as candidates for sustainable agricultural practices and biofertilizer development.