A Consortium of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi, Plant Growth Promoting Fungi and Mycorrhiza Helper Bacteria to establish a Tripartite interaction as a boon for improvement of plant growth and augmentation of Aloin and Aloe emodin content in Aloe barbadensis Mill.

Abstract The use of biofertilizers is increasing as a sustainable alternative to harmful chemical fertilizers in agriculture. Plant growth-promoting fungi (PGPF), mycorrhizal fungi (VAM), and mycorrhiza helper bacteria (MHB) are known for their ability to enhance plant growth and are now commonly used as biofertilizers. Aloe barbadensis Mill., produces Aloin and Aloe emodin, which have significant pharmaceutical value. Given the global reliance on herbal medicines, this study aimed to develop an effective biofertilizer combination using microbial consortia and assess their impact on the growth and metabolite production of Aloe barbadensis Mill. VAM fungi and PGPF were isolated from the rhizosphere soil, while MHB were isolated from the outer surface of VAM fungal spores. After evaluating plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits, one strain each of VAM fungi, PGPF, and MHB were selected. Upon identification, they were identified as Funneliformis mosseae, Aspergillus terreus (MCC 1819), and Bacillus tequilensis (MCC 4174), respectively. Eight different experimental sets were prepared, with results showing that the combination of VAM and MHB significantly enhanced the soil nutrient status and primary growth of the plants. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis further revealed that Aloin was highest in plants treated with VAM and MHB combination, while Aloe emodin was highest in VAM + PGPF set. The combination of VAM and MHB shows strong potential as an effective biofertilizer, meeting the global demand for Aloin and the commercial value of Aloe barbadensis gel. This combination presents a powerful and sustainable strategy for boosting plant growth, offering an eco-friendly solution for advancing future agricultural practices.