Asian Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology

By 2050, the global population is expected to reach 9 billion, increasing food demand by 70%.  Fertilizers, especially nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus (NPK), are essential for agricultural productivity. Phosphorus is vital for plant growth, but its availability in soil is often limited, reducing crop yields by up to 15%. Soil microorganisms, through biosolubilization, play a crucial role in converting minerals into plant-absorbable forms thus improving soil fertility and supporting sustainable farming practices. Microorganisms, like Azospirillum brasilense and Bacillus megaterium are known for solubilizing phosphorus and potassium, produce organic acids and enzymes that break down minerals, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers. Microbial consortia, combining bacteria and fungi, enhance solubilization efficiency through cooperative interactions. Biosolubilization also aids in soil remediation and waste treatment. The implications of this review are ecological alternatives to chemical fertilizers, reducing the environmental footprint of chemical hazards, understanding microbial interactions and optimizing practices based on local conditions which can address challenges like nutrient deficiencies and the high cost of fertilizers, ensuring food security and promoting sustainable farming.  The genetic regulation of microbial solubilization helps develop efficient biofertilizers, reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers. Microbial biosolubilization is essential for sustainable agriculture, enhancing soil health and plant growth. Therefore, continuous research in this area is essential to maximize its full potentials and for environmental stability.