Assessing indigenous rhizobium isolates for enhanced plant growth and biomass on cowpea (Vigina Anguiculata) in acidic sandy loam soils (pH 4.5).

Author
Basira, Evbu
Title
Assessing indigenous rhizobium isolates for enhanced plant growth and biomass on cowpea (Vigina Anguiculata) in acidic sandy loam soils (pH 4.5).
Abstract
The growing demand for sustainable agricultural practices has emphasized the importance of harnessing beneficial soil microorganisms, such as rhizobia, to improve legume productivity, especially under challenging soil conditions. This study was done to assess the growth-promoting potential of indigenous rhizobial isolates on cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) grown in acidic soil conditions under greenhouse conditions at Soil Productivity research Laboratory (SPRL) Marondera. Seven treatments were evaluated, including five native isolates (M1 to M5), a commercial inoculant (COM 276), and an uninoculated negative control (ZERO). Each treatment was assessed for its effect on key agronomic parameters such as nodule number, root length, and total plant biomass. The results revealed significant differences (p < 0.001) among treatments for all parameters measured. Notably, isolates M2, M1, and M4 demonstrated superior performance, with M2 producing the highest nodule number (39.67), and M1 exhibiting the longest root length (20.98 cm) and high dry biomass (2.83 g). The uninoculated control showed minimal growth and no nodulation, showing the necessity of rhizobial inoculation for successful cowpea cultivation under low-pH conditions. High coefficients of variation, particularly in root-related traits, suggest underlying biological variability and possible microenvironmental effects within the greenhouse. These findings underscore the agronomic value of indigenous rhizobia adapted to local soil conditions and their potential as biofertilizers for improving cowpea productivity. The study recommends further molecular characterization, field validation, and the development of inoculant formulations to enhance adoption and application in acid-prone agricultural regions.
Date
June 2025
Publisher
BUSE
Keywords
sustainable agricultural practices
soil microorganisms
legume productivity
Supervisor
Mr. E. Zingoni
Item sets
Department of Biological Sciences
Media
Evbu Basira .pdf

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