Exploring Azotobacter Species as Soil Biological Enhancers for Enhanced Crop Nutrition and Stable Yields: A Review

Abiotic and biotic stresses often impede optimal plant germination by disrupting natural growth and development mechanisms. Gram-negative _Azotobacter_, among crop growth-promoting _rhizobacteria_, emerges as a potent agent for enhancing plant health. _Azotobacter_ employs various mechanisms, such as nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, pesticide and fungicide degradation, siderophore production, and synthesis of growth-promoting hormones, collectively contributing to improved plant vigor. Furthermore, _Azotobacter_-based biofertilizers offer additional benefits for soil fertility enhancement. As a favorable and cost-effective alternative to chemical fertilizers, the utilization of biofertilizers has gained traction. Nonetheless, commercial-scale microbial biofertilizer formulation remains a challenge. This study aims to consolidate the advantageous attributes and effective research endeavors regarding _Azotobacter_ biofertilizers for fostering sustainable agroecosystems.