Characterization of a novel carbofuran degrading Pseudomonas sp with collateral biocontrol and plant growth promoting potential

The isolate NJ-101 obtained from agricultural soil was characterized and presumptively identified as Pseudomonas sp. The isolate exhibited efficient degradation of the insecticide carbofuran with a rate constant of 0.035 day(-1), following first-order rate kinetics. The ability of performing multifarious biological activities in tandem suggested the uniqueness of isolate NJ-101. The ability to produce hydrogen cyanide and siderophore stipulated its role in biological control. Furthermore, the growth inhibition of Fusarium sp. validated the antagonistic activity of NJ-101 against the common phytopathogens. Concurrent production of indole acetic acid, and solubilization of inorganic phosphate revealed its plant growth promoting potential. Thus, the innate capability of this novel isolate for parallel biodegradation, biocontrol and plant growth promotion has significance in management of the agro-environmental and phytopathological problems. (C) 2003 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.