Assessment of Microbial Diversity in Rhizosphere of Ficus religiosa Tree at Different Moisture Levels

Rhizospheric soil of Ficus religiosa tree shows the presence of gram-negative bacteria, Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Actinomycetes and Yeast and their count as well as dominance changes with moisture content in rhizosphere. During monsoon season, total viable microorganisms and gram-negative bacteria were found highest whereas in post-monsoon season Actinomycetes were dominant. Rhizobium, Azotobacter and Yeast were found in maximum number in premonsoon season. Amount of water in rhizosphere soil also affects soil chemical properties. Soil pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon and total nitrogen were recorded maximum in postmonsoon whereas available phosphorus content was found maximum in pre-monsoon. Content of C:N ratio and available nitrogen was increased with soil moisture content and found maximum in monsoon season followed by post-monsoon and pre-monsoon seasons.