Title: Isolation, characterization, and genetic documentation of rhizosphere microorganisms associated with the medicinal plant Pulicaria undulata in Qatar
Abstract:
Background :The rhizosphere is one of the most biologically active soil environments, containing diverse microbial communities that play important roles in plant growth, nutrient availability, and tolerance to environmental stress. This study aims to isolate, characterize, and genetically document microorganisms associated with the rhizosphere of the medicinal plant Pulicaria undulata in Qatar. Methods: Rhizosphere soil samples will be collected from different locations, followed by the isolation of bacterial and fungal communities using conventional culturing methods and selective media.
The obtained isolates will be characterized morphologically and physiologically to determine colony characteristics, growth patterns, and microbial diversity. Molecular identification will be carried out using PCR amplification and DNA sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene for bacteria and ITS regions for fungi to accurately identify the microbial isolates. The genetic sequences will be compared with international databases such as NCBI to support the documentation and preservation of microbial genetic resources.
Conclusion: This research will provide valuable information about the microbial diversity associated with Pulicaria undulata and the potential role of beneficial microorganisms in promoting plant growth and improving tolerance to environmental conditions. The study also contributes to the conservation of local microbial resources and supports sustainable agriculture and biotechnology research in Qatar. In addition, the project is expected to enhance research capacity in agricultural microbiology and align with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Ministry of Municipality and Agriculture Strategy 2023–2027.
