Dataset: Method and timing of rhizobacteria inoculation to plant roots alters success and strength of aphid suppression

Insect pests cause substantial yield losses globally, necessitating novel
pest control approaches beyond chemical pesticides. Rhizobacteria,
beneficial root-associated bacteria, present a promising alternative by
enhancing plant growth and defences against pests. This study explored the
use of sodium alginate encapsulation for precise inoculation of two
rhizobacteria, Acidovorax radicis and Bacillus subtilis, to
suppress aphid (Sitobion avenae) populations on barley (Hordeum vulgare).
We optimized a method using 4mm diameter wet-matrix alginate beads for
controlled bacterial delivery directly to plant roots. Rhizobacteria
inoculation via alginate beads at root emergence significantly reduced
aphid reproductive output, outperforming seed soaking methods, with
increased effects when plants were infested with a high initial density of
aphids. This suggests the prolonged release from alginate beads led to
more consistent bacterial establishment to enhance plant defence responses
triggered by aphid feeding. Alginate bead inoculation demonstrated
effective long-term bacterial viability following storage at 4° C for
eight months. Our findings highlight the potential of alginate
bead-encapsulated rhizobacteria for reducing aphid populations on barley
but emphasizing the need for precise inoculation timing and placement.
This approach offers a robust method for empirical research and practical
agricultural application, paving the way for sustainable pest management
strategies. Future work should focus on optimizing formulations and
understanding plant-microbe interactions to enhance field efficacy.