Silica Solubilizing Bacteria

Silica Solubilizing Bacteria make silica available to various plants by converting insoluble forms into readily absorbable forms, which can significantly enhance plant strength, growth, and resistance to environmental stress.

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What it is

Silica solubilizing bacteria (SSB) are specialized microorganisms that enhance the availability of silicon (Si) in the soil. Silicon is an essential element for plants, contributing to structural integrity, resistance against pests and diseases, and tolerance to environmental stresses such as drought and high temperatures. However, silicon in most soils exists in insoluble forms such as silicates, which plants cannot readily absorb. SSB convert these insoluble forms into soluble silicon that plants can utilize.

Why is it important

Silicon is crucial for plant health and resilience, yet its availability in soils can be limited. The importance of silica solubilizing bacteria includes:

Enhanced Plant Protection: Silicon enhances plant defenses against pathogens and pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

Improved Stress Tolerance: Silicon improves plant resilience to environmental stresses such as drought, salinity, and heat.

Enhanced Nutrient Uptake: Silicon facilitates the uptake of other essential nutrients by plants, promoting overall growth and development.

How it works

Silica solubilizing bacteria employ several mechanisms to convert insoluble silicon into soluble forms:

Acid Production: SSB produce organic acids (e.g., citric acid, oxalic acid) that lower the pH around silicate minerals, facilitating the release of soluble silicon ions (Si^4+) into the soil solution.

Enzymatic Activity: Some SSB produce enzymes that break down complex silicate minerals, releasing soluble silicon ions that are available for plant uptake.

Biological Weathering: SSB can promote the physical breakdown of silicate minerals through biological processes, increasing the surface area available for chemical weathering and silicon release.

By enhancing silicon availability in the soil, silica solubilizing bacteria support plant health, resilience, and overall productivity, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Silica Solubilizing Bacteria

Our Products

Explore our range of premium Silica Solubilizing Bacteria strains tailored to meet your agricultural needs, enhancing silica uptake for improved plant strength and resilience.