Abstract

SCREENING OF MARINE BACTERIA FOR IAA PRODUCTION

Mary Franceena, Ayona Jayadev* and Lekshmi M.

ABSTRACT

This work forms a part of a larger research which is done to document the potential bacteria producing industrially important molecules and bioactives. Appreciating the ability of marine bacteria in producing many bioactive molecules of human interest and understanding the importance of organic practices in agricultural activities, this study was conducted to identify and isolate marine bacterial strains producing the compound Indole Acetic Acid (IAA). The IAA production is quantified and optimized in terms of pH and temperature. In the present study, out of 12 strains, 5 strains exhibit IAA production. The IAA producing strains are Bb1, Bb2, Tb2, Tb3 and Tb4. The isolated strains showed maximum IAA production at neutral pH and at 37°C. Two isolates, Bb1 and Tb3 showed almost same capacity to produce IAA both at acidic as well as alkaline pH. Bb2 and Tb2 are good producers at alkaline pH whereas; Tb4 shows a better production at acidic pH.

Keywords: Indole Acetic Acid, IAA, Bacterial strain, optimization.