Microbial inoculation enhances photosynthetic efficiency in the vegetative stage of blue native corn

Maize ( Zea mays L.) is a key part of the daily food in Mexico and holds the title of the most widely consumed cereal in the nation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the photosynthetic efficiency of blue native maize during its vegetative stage through the inoculation with beneficial microorganisms. Four treatments were applied: control, T. asperellum , Bacillus sp., and a combination of both. Several parameters, including SPAD values (which indicate chlorophyll levels), the concentration of photosynthetic pigments, the activity of the nitrate reductase enzyme, and the levels of soluble amino acids were evaluated. The results showed that SPAD values increased when either microorganism was applied alone or together, compared to the control group. Additionally, the combination treatment significantly boosted in vivo nitrate reductase activity, while the Bacillus sp. treatment led to the highest levels of soluble amino acids. Although there weren’t significant differences in photosynthetic pigment levels across the treatments, the fact that these microbial treatments were used alongside a 50% reduction in chemical fertilizers indicates that they can effectively enhance plant performance even with lower fertilizer inputs. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of T. asperellum and Bacillus sp. as biofertilizers in the production of native maize and emphasize their importance in promoting more sustainable farming practices.