Assessing the Efficacy of Cyanobacterial Strains as Oryza sativa Growth Biostimulants in Saline Environments

Soil salinity, which affects plant photosynthesis mechanisms, significantly limits plant productivity. Soil microorganisms, including cyanobacteria, can synthesize various exometabolites that contribute to plant growth and development in several ways. These microorganisms can increase plant tolerance to salt stress by secreting various phytoprotectants; therefore, it is highly relevant to study soil microorganisms adapted to high salinity and investigate their potential to increase plant resistance to salt stress. This study evaluated the antioxidant activity of four cyanobacterial strains: <i>Spirulina platensis</i> Calu-532, <i>Nostoc</i> sp. J-14, <i>Trichormus variabilis</i> K-31, and <i>Oscillatoria brevis</i> SH-12. Among these, <i>Nostoc</i> sp. J-14 presented the highest antioxidant activity. Their growth-stimulating effects under saline conditions were also assessed under laboratory conditions. These results indicate that <i>Nostoc</i> sp. J-14 and <i>T. variabilis</i> K-31 show significant promise in mitigating the harmful effects of salinity on plant size and weight. Both strains notably enhanced the growth of <i>Oryza sativa</i> plants under saline conditions, suggesting their potential as biostimulants to improve crop productivity in saline environments. This research underscores the importance of understanding the mechanisms by which cyanobacteria increase plant tolerance to salt stress, paving the way for sustainable agricultural practices in saline areas.