Home⇛Isabela State University Linker The Journal of Emerging Research in Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry⇛vol. 5 no. 2 (2025)

Effect of Microbial Ratio, Storage Temperature, and Packaging on the Viability and Stability of Co-Inoculated Rhizobium tropici and Azospirillum spp.in Nitrogen-Fixing Biofertilizer

Sarah B. Aquino | Larjan Kent M. Cuevas | Fevie Rica A. Ancheta | Gerly T. Zulueta | Kay S. Olivas | Rose Mary G. Aquino

Discipline: agricultural sciences

 

Abstract:

Access to reliable microbial biofertilizers in the Philippines remains limited, underscoring the need for locally produced, stable, and farmer-ready alternatives. This study evaluated the 12-month viability patterns of a solid co-inoculated biofertilizer containing Rhizobium tropici (isolated from Saccharum spontaneum) and Azospirillum spp. formulated at five microbial ratios and stored under different packaging and temperature conditions. The research employed a descriptive experimental approach to document colonyforming unit (CFU/g) trajectories, identify stability trends, and determine whether each formulation maintained viability above the regulatory threshold of ≥1 × 10? CFU/g. Solid formulations were packaged in polyethylene (PPE) or aluminum foil and stored under ambient (28–32 °C) or airconditioned (20–25 °C) conditions. Monthly viability was assessed using serial dilution and spread plating on Dobereiner’s medium. Results showed a general pattern of early stabilization (Months 1–3) followed by gradual CFU decline. The balanced 50:50 mixture (1:1 co-culture) exhibited the highest stability, particularly when stored in aluminum foil at 20–25 °C, maintaining 2.6 × 10? CFU/g at Month 12. Azospirillum spp.-dominant mixtures showed strong resilience, while R. tropicidominant and single-strain formulations declined more rapidly. Packaging and temperature were major determinants of shelf-life performance, with aluminum foil and cool storage markedly improving microbial survival. The descriptive study provides foundational stability data essential for local product development and quality assurance. Future research should validate agronomic performance through field trials and explore alternative carrier systems and cost-efficient storage strategies to further optimize biofertilizer formulations.



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