Isolation of endophytic plant growth promoting Burkholderia sp. MSSP from root nodules of Mimosa pudica

Endophytic bacteria reside within plant tissues and have often been reported to promote plant growth. Rhizobia are particularly known for their symbiotic relationship with legumes. A bacterial strain MSSP was isolated from surface-sterilized root nodules of Mimosa pudica. MSSP was Gram-negative, capsulated, motile, non-endospore forming rod with free nitrogen (N) fixation ability. Unlike N-fixing bacteria forming symbiotic relationship with legumes that largely exist in α-subclass of proteobacteria, MSSP belongs to β-class of proteobacteria. Phylogenetic analysis of 16 S rDNA demonstrated that MSSP belongs to the genus Burkholderia. This isolate secretes phytohormone, ACC deaminase, solubilizes phosphate and is antagonistic against phytopathogens.