Systematic Investigation of Phosphate Decomposition and Soil Fertility Modulation by the Filamentous Fungus <i>Talaromyces nanjingensis</i>

Phosphate-solubilizing microbes (PSMs) in soil play a crucial role in converting insoluble phosphates into plant-available soluble phosphorus. This paper systematically presents a comprehensive array of qualitative and quantitative techniques to assess the phosphate-decomposing capabilities of micro...

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Main Authors: Xiao-Rui Sun, Pu-Sheng Li, Huan Qiao, Wei-Liang Kong, Ya-Hui Wang, Xiao-Qin Wu
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-07-01
Series:Microorganisms
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/13/7/1574
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Summary:Phosphate-solubilizing microbes (PSMs) in soil play a crucial role in converting insoluble phosphates into plant-available soluble phosphorus. This paper systematically presents a comprehensive array of qualitative and quantitative techniques to assess the phosphate-decomposing capabilities of microbes. Additionally, it introduces two optimized media, namely improved Monkina medium No. 1 and No. 2, which are particularly suitable for detecting the solubilization abilities of microbes toward insoluble organic phosphates. <i>Talaromyces nanjingensis</i>, a novel fungal species recently isolated from the rhizosphere soil of <i>Pinus massoniana</i>, demonstrates remarkable phosphate-solubilizing abilities. Across multiple temperature gradients (15 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, and 37 °C), it effectively decomposes both insoluble inorganic and organic phosphates. This is achieved through the secretion of organic acids, including gluconic acid (6.10 g L<sup>−1</sup>), oxalic acid (0.93 g L<sup>−1</sup>), and malonic acid (0.17 g L<sup>−1</sup>), as well as phosphate-solubilizing enzymes. Moreover, under low-, medium-, and high-temperature conditions, <i>T. nanjingensis</i> can decompose insoluble phosphates in three types of soil with varying pH levels, thereby enhancing the overall soil fertility. Genomic analysis of <i>T. nanjingensis</i> has identified approximately 308 genes associated with phosphate decomposition and environmental adaptability, validating its superior capabilities and multi-faceted strategies for phosphate mobilization. These findings underscore the wide applicability of <i>T. nanjingensis</i> in maintaining soil phosphorus homeostasis and optimizing the phosphorus use efficiency, highlighting its promising potential for agricultural and environmental applications.
ISSN:2076-2607