The aim of this study was evaluating the effect of the inoculation of plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) in forage mass, tillering, nutritive value and root system of ruzigrass (Urochloa ruziziensis (R. Germ. & Evrard) Crins (syn. of Brachiaria ruziziensis) associated with doses of N-fertilizer. The bacteria inoculated were Azospirillum brasilense Ab-V5, Pseudomonas fluorescens CCTB03 and Pantoea ananatis AMG 521, plus the control treatment (non-inoculated), associated with doses of N-fertilizer (0, 50 and 100 kg N ha-1). The experiment was performed in a randomized block design, in a 4x3 factorial scheme, with four replicates, totaling 48 plots (12 m2). There were no effects of the PGPB and the use of N-fertilizer on the leaf blade, stem+sheath, forage mass, daily and yearly accumulation of forage mass. The PGPB did not have influence on the density of tillers. The doses of 50 and 100 kg of N ha-1 increased the amount of tillers. The AMG 521 strain associated with N-fertilizer provided heavier tillers. There was no effect of the PGPB on crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), as well as acid detergent fiber (ADF), and in vitro digestibility of the dry matter (IVDDM). The use of 100 kg of N ha-1 contributed to an increase in CP and a decrease in NDF. The AMG 521 strain contributed to a smaller diameter of the root. Strains CCTB03 and AMG 521 demonstrated a smaller area, length and root density when associated with the dose of 50kg of N ha-1. In general, the PGPB were not efficient in promoting productive increments in ruzigrass.
Early modifications of Brassica napus root system architecture induced by a plant growth-promoting Phyllobacterium strain
