Molecular and Functional Characterization of Halophilic Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria From <i>Suaeda fruticosa</i> L. Rhizosphere Using 16s rDNA Sequencing

The present investigation was undertaken to isolate and characterize plant growth‐promoting (PGP) salt‐tolerant bacteria. Rhizospheric soil samples were collected from Suaeda fruticosa halophyte in Hisar and were screened for PGP salt‐tolerant bacteria. Eighteen isolates were retrieved and analyzed for salt tolerance at various NaCl concentrations (2, 4, 6, 8, 10% NaCl). Twelve isolates were subsequently assessed for their PGP traits after demonstrating salt tolerance across varying NaCl concentrations. Highest amount of Indole acetic acid was produced by isolates SA3, SR1, SR2, and SS1. Among the strains that were tested, isolated SR1 demonstrated the highest level of ammonia production. Ten isolates showed phosphate solubilization, and eight isolates showed Zn solubilization. All twelve salt‐tolerant bacterial isolates were found to be negative for siderophore production. Four isolates, SA3, SR1, SS1, and SR2, with significant salt tolerance and plant‐growth‐promoting traits, were characterized biochemically. Based on biochemical results, the tentative genus was identified as Bacillus (SA3, SR1, and SR2) and Serratia (SS1). The tentative taxonomic classification of isolate SA3 and SR1 is supported by their 99.64% similarity to Bacillus safensis and 99.78% similarity to Bacillus cereus as determined by 16S rDNA sequencing.