Effect of a Sporulation Factor Gene Mutation in the Genome of Bacillus pumilus JN on the Biocontrol Properties of the Strain

Plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) are a promising alternative to conventional agricultural fertilizers. The rhizosphere isolate Bacillus pumilus JN was characterized as a potential phytoprotective strain. Comparative analysis of the biocontrol properties of B. pumilus JN and its mutant by the sporulation factor gene (∆sigF) showed that the native strain formed denser biofilms and exhibited high adherence on plant root surfaces, whereas the mutation in the sporulation factor gene had a negative effect on these abilities. Both strains synthesized the phytohormone indolyl-3-acetic acid (IAA) at high concentrations.