Resume/ Abstract
Poster title: Reclamation Of The Phosphate Post-Mining Site Of Benguerir : Characterization Of The Indigenous Bacterial Strains For Revegetation Applications.
Authors: Laure Emeline Ablé1 ,Malak Elmeknassi1 , Hamza Zine1 , Mostafa Benzaazoua1 , Mohamed Idbella2 & Adnane Bargaz2
Affiliations: 1Geology and Sustainable Mining Institute (GSMI), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Benguerir, Morocco ; 2Plant-Microbe Interactions Laboratory, AgroBiosciences Program, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, BenGuerir , Morocco.
Abstract (250 words):
Mining activities, while economically valuable, often leave behind degraded landscapes with nutrient-poor soils, making natural revegetation challenging. In arid and semi-arid regions, restoring post-mining sites requires an integrated approach that considers both soil physico-chemical properties and microbial communities. Beneficial soil microorganisms play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, soil health, and plant establishment, yet their potential in mine site rehabilitation remains underexplored. This study enhances the revegetation of phosphate post-mining lands in Benguerir, Morocco, by leveraging indigenous plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB). From phosphate waste rock, 51 bacterial strains were isolated, classified into filamentous (35.29%) and non-filamentous (64.71%) morphotypes, and screened for abiotic stress tolerance (drought, salinity, and heat) as well as plant growth-promoting traits. Notably, most of both bacterial types tolerated up to 15% PEG 6000, while non-filamentous strains showed higher salt tolerance (up to 9% NaCl). The mixed consortium exhibited the highest phosphorus and potassium solubilization and ACC deaminase production, key trait for plant stress mitigation. A greenhouse experiment was conducted using post-mining soil as substrate, with Vicia sativa L. and Atriplex semibaccata R.Br. inoculated with three bacterial consortia (filamentous, non-filamentous, and mixed). Results demonstrate that plants inoculated with the bacterial consortia exhibit enhanced biomass, vigor, and root development compared to those grown in the control soil. Additionally, soil microbiota analysis reveals that the introduced consortia increase the abundance of beneficial microbes associated with nutrient cycling and plant health. The findings highlight the potential of microbial consortia to accelerate revegetation, improve soil fertility, and contribute to long-term ecosystem recovery.