The research programme of our Microbiology group has the focus on employing polyphasic approach (phenotypic, biochemical and genotypic) to understand the microbial diversity of the rhizospheric populations of coastal agri- and mangrove ecosystems. The studies have resulted in identifying novel salt tolerant beneficial bacteria at the level of genera and species. viz., Swaminathania salitolerans isolated from the wild rice (Porteresia coarctata) and having properties of phosphate solubilization, nitrogen fixation and salinity tolerance. A potential novel red-pigmented bacterium, with plant growth promoting and antibacterial activity was identified and named as Vibrio rhizosphaerae sp. nov, and a Erythrobacter indica sp.nov.

Extensive screening of various organisms from the culture collections for the beneficial properties have resulted in the identification of a number of strains for biofertlizers and biocontrols applications for the coastal saline soils. Multi-location and seasonal field trials have been conducted in farmers field involving a participatory approach, with consortium of these biocontrol, phosphate solubilizers and nitrogen fixers. Toxicological studies of the biocontrol strains have also found them to be non-toxic. More than 20 strains have been given for third party testing and they have developed formulations out of the same. Few low cost biofertilizer production units have been established which are being run and managed by SHG members. This model of decentralized production units helps in the supply of good quality inputs to promote good agricultural practices in the region.