Plant Growth Promoting Potential of Phormidium: Effects on Seed Germination, Growth Indices and Photosynthetic Efficiency of Maize (Zea mays L.)

Cyanobacteria are oxygenic, photosynthetic prokaryotes with unique potential to enhance plant growth, development, and productivity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible beneficial effects of Phormidium sp. ISC108 on seed germination, seedling growth criteria and photosynthetic efficiency of maize. Phormidium was applied to soil via irrigation whereas control group was irrigated via sterilized water. A significant promotion in the seed germination was observed in Phormidium treated Maize seeds. Similarly, Seedling growth indices of treated plants including biomass production, plant heights and leaf area significantly enhanced. Chlorophyll content as well as chlorophyll a fluorescence kinetics was also positively influenced by Phormidium application. Quantum yield of photosynthesis, primary photochemical reactions, rate of exiton transfer to electron transport chain, yield of electron transport and performance index of photosynthetic apparatus significantly increased in response of Phormidium application in soil. However, values of thermal dissipation of absorbed light showed a significant reduction as a result of Phormidium treatment. Considering remarkable growth promoting properties, Phormidium sp. may offer a feasible economical and environmental-friendly candidate as bio-fertilizer in sustainable maize production.