Synergistic Effect of Pb Resistant Bacteria and L. macroides US3 Biostimulant in Ecorestoration of Pb-Treated Soil
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1013-5345Abstract
Lead pollution poses a formidable threat to agriculture, bioaccumulating in crops, and ultimately harming human health. Even low-level exposure can significantly reduce crop yields, diminish nutritional value, and precipitate economic losses and food insecurity. To combat this threat, we investigated the efficacy of a novel biostimulant, Lysinibacillus macroides US3, previously isolated from the rhizosphere of a plant with enhanced plant growth attributes to promote ecorestoration of a Pb-remediated soil. Four Pb-resistant bacterial (LRB) strains: Bacillus infantis K66, Halopseudomonas xiamenensis B13, Lysinibacillus fusiformis KAF67, and Pseudomonas spp. A27 harbouring the gene cluster PbrABCT were employed in the treatment of Pb contaminated soil. The treatment efficacy was remarkable, with final Pb removal percentages of 85%, 82%, 83%, and 83%, respectively while control had a 41% removal. To achieve ecorestoration and facilitate agricultural reuse of soil, maize seeds were planted in the treated soil, and 10% w/v of US3 biostimulant was introduced as liquid culture into the pots except the control pot. Post-cultivation analysis revealed enhanced plant growth and biomass yield in US3 inoculated pots, 48% Pb uptake by maize in control pots while undetected in inoculated pots, 53% residual Pb in control soil while undetected in inoculated soil. The synergistic application of Pb-resistant bacteria and US3 biostimulant effectively ecorestored Pb-stressed soil, demonstrating a promising approach for sustainable Pb mitigation. This study highlights the potential of microbial-based solutions for environmental remediation and agricultural sustainability.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Chioma Bertha Ehis-Eriakha, Esther Omoye 0shiomane Momodu, Fred Coolborn Akharaiyi, Koplamma Nenchini Bala
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