Microorganismos benéficos, bioestimuladores de la germinación y emergencia de semillas de maíz (Zea mays L.)

Limited germination and emergence of corn seeds reduces crop production and yield. The objective was to evaluate the potential of different strains of beneficial bacteria as biostimulants of corn (Zea mays L.) seed germination and emergence. This 7-day in vitro study, conducted in Milagro, Ecuador, investigated the impact of four beneficial bacterial strains (Azotobacter vinelandii, Azospirillum brasilense, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus licheniformis) on the germination and initial growth of ESPLENDOR hybrid corn seeds. Seeds were pre-hydrated and sown on absorbent paper. Bacterial treatments were applied, and controlled temperature and light conditions were maintained. On the seventh day, the following variables were measured: seedling height, root length, and fresh weight. Data were analyzed statistically to determine significant differences between treatments. All beneficial microorganisms significantly increased height, root length, and fresh weight of corn seedlings compared to the control. A. brasilense was the most effective in enhancing all parameters, followed by A. vinelandii. P. fluorescens and B. licheniformis, although beneficial, had a smaller but statistically superior effect to the treatment without microorganisms. The use of beneficial bacteria in agriculture optimizes nutrient availability, modulates physiological development, and protects crops against biotic and abiotic stress