Two Novel Bacterial Species, Rhodanobacter lycopersici sp. nov. and Rhodanobacter geophilus sp. nov., Isolated from the Rhizosphere of Solanum lycopersicum with Plant Growth-Promoting Traits

Abstract

Two novel bacterial species were isolated from the rhizosphere of Solanum lycopersicum (tomato plant), both exhibiting plant growth-promoting properties. Two isolated strains, Rhodanobacter lycopersici sp. nov. Si-cT and Rhodanobacter geophilus sp. nov. S2-gT, were classified through a polyphasic approach, confirming their novel status within the Rhodanobacter genus. The strains demonstrated a remarkable tolerance to extreme pH conditions, with R. lycopersici Si-cT surviving in pH 3.0-13.0 and R. geophilus S2-gT tolerating pH 2.0-13.0. Additionally, both strains exhibited multiple plant growth-promoting traits, including indole-3-acetic acid and ammonia production, phosphate solubilization, and siderophore formation. These characteristics suggest that the two strains may play an important role in promoting plant growth, especially in soils with variable pH levels. However, since the direct impact on plant growth was not experimentally tested, the potential of these bacteria for agricultural applications remains to be confirmed through further research. This study expands our understanding of the diversity within the Rhodanobacter genus and provides insights into the potential use of these novel species in sustainable agriculture.