Trials carried out at the University of Queensland indicate that microbial biotechnology might revolutionize agriculture by providing concurrent advantages such as enhancing soil health, boosting crop yields, and capturing carbon dioxide.
The University of Queensland’s Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation along with the School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability has joined forces with agricultural biotechnology firm Loam Bio to evaluate fungal endophyte inoculants in soybean crops.
Dr. Vijaya Singh, a QAAFI Research Fellow, mentioned that fungal endophyte inoculants serve as advantageous microorganisms applied to seeds. The research outcomes indicate this. published in the journal Scientific Reports .
"It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement—by supplying the host plant with nutrients and water, the fungal microorganisms receive carbon as nourishment," explained Dr. Singh.
The carbon dioxide absorbed by the plant from the atmosphere moves into the soil through liquids discharged by the roots, thereby enhancing soil carbon levels instead of depleting them.
Higher levels of carbon result in increased grain production, making this research particularly thrilling for me as we're engaged in significant work.
Soil enrichment with carbon enhances its structural integrity, boosts moisture retention within the soil, and increases both nutrient accessibility and uptake.
Loam Bio has been working on the development of these inoculants for over four years.
Dr. Neeraj Purushotham, a company researcher, stated that the outcomes from the initial year of trials conducted at Gatton in Queensland showed promising results.
"Through our partnership with UQ, we aim to gain deeper insights into how our inoculants function and to comprehend the process of forming stable carbon, as this is what remains within the soil," explained Dr. Purushotham.
By boosting the level of carbon captured, you assist the farmer since healthier soil requires less fertilizer.
This would involve decreasing fertilizer usage while still achieving the same level of output, along with capturing carbon within the soil.
Dr. Singh mentioned that the findings required additional examination.
Dr. Singh stated, "Our research indicates that endophytes might have positive effects on crop development, productivity, and they contribute to changes in soil organic matter."
More information: Vijaya Singh and colleagues found that fungal endophytes affect soil organic carbon and nitrogen levels, enhancing carbon storage and boosting soybean yields. Scientific Reports (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-94982-3
Supplied by the University of Queensland
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