Prof. Zhongmin Dong
St. Mary's University, Canada
Title: H2 Fertilization: Is this the Benefit of Crop Rotation?
Abstract:
There is a well-known benefit
of legume rotation in the yield of cereal grains. However, only about 20% of
this rotation benefit can be attributed to legume N2 fixation and the
related enhancement of soil nutrient status. Our studies suggest that a
significant part of the crop rotation benefit may be coupled to changes in soil
microbial populations associated with the exudations or emissions from legume
roots and nodules. For example, most temperate legume nodules release to the
soil large amounts of H2 (up to 7000 L H2 /ha/day) that
stimulates the growth of H2-oxidizing microbes within the
rhizosphere. The results indicate that the activity of soybean roots exerted
significant effects on the rhizobacterial community structure causing a
significant increase in soil fertility, enhancing the growth of legumes and
non-legumes alike. Also, strains of H2 oxidizing microbes isolated
from treated soils have plant growth promoting properties. These discoveries
could help to account for the beneficial effects of legumes used in rotations
and intercropping with cereals and other crops.
Biography: