Paddy plants inoculated with PGPR show better growth physiology and nutrient content under saline conditions

The possible role of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to alleviate salt stress during plant growth has been studied on paddy rice (Oryza sativa L.) 'GJ-17' under greenhouse conditions; the study included growth parameters, mineral concentration, and antioxidant enzyme level. Salinity reduced plant growth, but PGPR inoculation reduced its harmful effect up to 1% salinity. Plants inoculated with PGPR under saline conditions showed 16% higher germination, 8% higher survival, 27% higher dry weight, and 31% higher plant height. Similarly, PGPR inoculated plants showed increased concentrations of N(26%), P (16%), K (31%), and reduced concentrations of Na (71%) and Ca (36%) as compared to non-inoculated control plants under saline conditions. Plants inoculated with PGPR under saline conditions also showed significant variations in antioxidant levels and growth physiology. Results suggested that inoculation with PGPR Bacillus pumilus and Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes in salt-stressed plants could help to alleviate salt stress in the paddy.