Improved diazotrophic microorganisms for use in agriculture.

Abstract

The present invention relates to genetically modified microorganisms of the genus Paenibacillus for improving plant phenotypes, for example, nitrogen availability in non-leguminous plants. It includes novel strains of the microorganisms, microbial consortia, and agricultural compositions comprising them. Furthermore, the invention teaches methods for using the described microorganisms, microbial consortia, and agricultural compositions comprising them to impart beneficial properties to target plant species. In particular, the description provides methods for enhancing desirable plant characteristics in agronomically important species, such as nitrogen fixation, utilization, regulation, uptake, acquisition, tolerance, and / or processing.