Characterization of bacteria isolated from bean plant nodules grown on soils contaminated with heavy metals

When soils are contaminated with heavy metals, seed germination, plant growth, and development are inhibited, which also affects microbial activity in the soil. Previous studies have demonstrated that some bacteria allow plants to enhance their growth under various stress conditions, including those generated by heavy metals. This is achieved through the production of phytohormones, such as indole-3-acetic acid, phosphate solubilization, and nitrogen fixation. Furthermore, they can modify the bioavailability of heavy metals in the soil through various mechanisms, including acidification, precipitation, and chelation, which reduces phytotoxicity. In this project, Phaseolus vulgaris was utilized as a trap plant to isolate bacteria from mining tailings in Huautla Morelos to comprehend their diversity and better understand how bacteria interact with each other and their environment. Identifying and characterizing heavy metal-tolerant bacteria can provide valuable information for developing strategies to restore contaminated soils.