The Mutualistic Interaction of Rhizobial, Non-rhizobial Bacteria, and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in Chamaecrista species

• Grant number: 24/08344-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: June 01, 2025
• End date: May 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Botany
• Principal Investigator: Anselmo Nogueira
• Grantee: Asmamaw Tesfaw Belay
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas (CCNH). Universidade Federal do ABC (UFABC). Ministério da Educação (Brasil). Santo André , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 19/19544-7 - Synergistic effect of multiple mutualists on plants: how bacteria, ants and bees contribute to the evolution of a hyper-diverse lineage of legumes, AP.BTA.JP

Abstract

Mutualisms play a pivotal role in shaping ecosystems, exerting profound effects on plant fitness and community dynamics. This project seeks to explore the mutualistic relationships between legumes, particularly Chamaecrista species, and their symbiotic microorganisms, with a focus on rhizobial and non-rhizobial bacteria, as well as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF).The primary objective involves the isolation, characterization, and identification of rhizobial and non-rhizobial bacteria, along with AMF, from the nodules and rhizosphere of Chamaecrista species. Utilizing standard microbiological techniques, we will isolate these microorganisms and assess their traits related to plant growth promotion. Molecular identification will aid in distinguishing between rhizobial and non-rhizobial strains, with confirmatory tests ensuring nodulation capacity. The second objective aims to quantify the synergistic effects of rhizobial and non-rhizobial bacteria, in conjunction with AMF, on various plant traits of Chamaecrista species. Through a factorial experiment, selected microbial isolates will be inoculated onto Chamaecrista plants, enabling the assessment of nodulation efficiency, AMF root colonization, and a range of plant descriptors including growth descriptors, photosynthetic efficiency, and floral rewards for mutualistic partners. This project aligns with an ongoing young researcher FAPESP project led by Dr. Nogueira at the Federal University of ABC, São Paulo, Brazil. By delving into the mutualistic interactions between symbionts and plants, our research significantly contributes to advancing the scientific understanding of these intricate relationships. It serves as an essential initial step in prospecting potential microorganisms that could enhance crop productivity and fostering interactions conducive to green manure practices.