Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterisation of Bacteria Associated with Acacia gummifera Wild

Aims: The study aimed to isolate and analyse the phenotypic and genotypic features of bacteria nodulating Acacia gummifera Wild.

Study Design: An experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was done at the Department of Biology (Soil & Environment Microbiology Unit), University of Sciences Meknes, Moulay Ismail University and National Center of Research Science and Technical Division Rabat-Morocco, during April 2015 to May 2016.

Methodology: Samples were collected from 15 sites of Skhour Rhamna region, Morocco, to isolate bacteria that can be able to nodulate Acacia gummifera. Phenotypic parameters as growth speed, mobility, tolerances to temperature, salt, and pH were studied. To evaluate the genotypic characteristics, a molecular characterisation based on the 16S rRNA gene was performed.

Results: The majority of the isolate is fast growing. All isolate tolerated high temperatures (40°C), and a NaCl concentration that exceeds 800 mM and the majority of them increased under pH ranging from 7 to 10. Furthermore, the molecular characterisation showed the bacterial diversity belonging to the genera Ensifer, Rhizobium and Acinetobacter.

Conclusion: The Moroccan gum tree recruits a diversified strain that can be developed as a new bio-fertiliser.