Role of phosphate solubilizing bacteria in enhancing soil fertility and crop yields in arid environments – A Review

Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) are increasingly recognized as essential players in sustainable agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where soil phosphorus (P) availability is often limited. These bacteria, which belong to a category of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria are capable of converting insoluble phosphates into forms that plants can easily absorb. This process not only enhances nutrient uptake but also supports overall plant growth. Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of PSB in improving crop productivity in challenging environments such as the Andean Atacama Desert, Morocco, and parts of India. The combination of PSB application with organic and mineral fertilizers has been explored to address the adverse effects of soil salinization and calcification issues that are worsened by climate change. This review delves into the mechanisms by which PSB solubilize phosphate, factors influencing their activity, and the multitude of benefits they offer in arid regions, including enhanced phosphorus uptake, increased crop yields, improved plant development, enhanced water efficiency, and better drought resilience. The application of PSB biofertilizers are critical for boosting agricultural productivity in these arid landscapes. PSB present a viable solution for advancing sustainable agricultural practices in arid and semi-arid regions, though further research is necessary to fully capitalize on their potential.