Phosphate solubilization plant growth promoting rhizobacteria solubilize organic or inorganic phosphate in acidic condition but heavy metals are very less soluble in acidic condition below 5pH. Then how can PGPR enhanced the phytoextraction heavy metals?
Dear Ratan,
I think there is some confusion or misunderstanding to you.... check on the internet... it is well reported that heavy metals are very much soluble in acidic conditions and maximum at pH 1-3. For metal extraction acid digestion is necessary step and this is done in the presence of concentrated acids not in acids having pH 5 or above 5. Acidic conditions favour metal leachability and solubility.
As far as PSB concerned, check the pH of the solution/ growth medium in which PSB grows. This will give you efficiency of the PSB for acid production and idea on the metal solubility.
Some plants and microorganisms make sorbed P available by releasing carboxylates. These bind to the sites that bind P, thus solubilising it. These carboxylates also chelate heavy metals, and hence may increase their availability. Plants that use a carboxylate-releasing P-mobilising strategy also tend to have higher concentration of heavy metals, especially Mn in their leaves.
As far as soil pH and its effect on heavy metals is concerned, you already received a response that should be very helpful.
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