Vol. 12, Issue 12 (2023)

Author(s):
Ramesh Ippikoppa, Kiran Kumar KC, RK Mesta, Kulapathi Hipparagi, HM Pallavi and S Raghavendra

Abstract:
The study focuses on the morphological and biochemical characterization of thirteen representative isolates with effective antagonistic properties against Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. punicae, a pathogen causing disease in pomegranate plants. The isolates were obtained from rhizospheric samples of soil were taken in the Maharashtra and Karnataka regions that produce pomegranates. The morphological traits, colony characteristics, gram staining, starch hydrolysis, gelatin liquefaction, spore determination, levan formation, citrate utilization, growth in 7% NaCl, siderophore production, hydrocyanic acid production, and indole acetic acid production were used to identify and characterize the isolates. Additionally, the effect of temperature and pH on the growth of the isolates was examined. The results revealed distinct morphological and cultural characteristics among the isolates, with some exhibiting traits similar to Pseudomonas fluorescens and others to the Bacillus genus. Optimal growth conditions were identified at a temperature of 30 °C and a pH of 7.0 for specific isolates. This comprehensive characterization provides insights into the potential applications of these isolates for biocontrol and agricultural practices.