Screening of phosphate solubilizing Aspergillus spp. from soil samples

Phosphorus (P) is a naturally existing element crucial for plant growth among the 17 essential elements. It's integral to various biomolecules like nucleic acids, coenzymes, phosphoproteins, and phospholipids, playing key roles in cellular processes and structural integrity. Its presence is fundamental for sustaining healthy plant growth and ecosystem balance. Rhizosphere soil samples from medicinal plants at Shree Shivaji College Akola were collected aseptically. Phosphate Solubilizing Fungi (PSF) were isolated using Pikovskya’s agar medium, characterized microscopically, and screened for phosphate solubilization potentials. % Solubilization Efficiency was determined, and quantitative estimation of phosphate solubilization was conducted by ammonium molybdate method by using KH2PO4 as standard for determination. Fourteen Aspergillus spp. isolates from soil were screened for phosphate solubilization on PVK medium. Results showed varied solubilization indices and efficiencies across different time intervals, with pH changes observed during solubilization. Optical density measurements provided insights into concentration variations among isolates.