Isolation and Characterization of Endophytic Bacteria Isolated from Seeds of Moringa oleifera (Moringaceae)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura - 35516, Egypt

Abstract

Moringa oleifera, sometimes known as the "miracle tree," is extensively spread in tropical and subtropical places across the globe. The study aimed to isolate and characterize endophytic bacteria from M. oleifera seeds collected from different habitats in Egypt. In the present study seven bacterial endophyte isolates were obtained from the seeds on LB agar medium. Samples from Al-Sharkia showed more diversity compared to Sinai samples. Morphological characterization showed most isolates were rod-shaped, Gram-negative, and motile. Two isolates (Sh1 and Sh2) were Gram-positive cocci and non-motile. Additionally, colonies were circular with entire margin, raised elevation, creamy texture and off-white/yellowish-white pigmentation. Environmental factors like plant habitat, climate, plant genotype, etc. can influence the diversity and community structure of endophytes. In conclusion, the presence of diverse endophytic bacteria in Moringa seeds provides opportunities to explore their potential plant growth-promoting abilities. Further studies on the functional characterization of the endophytes would help understand their interactions with Moringa and benefits for sustainable agriculture.

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