USO DE Bacillus velezensis NA PRODUÇÃO DE BIOATIVOS PARA O ENGALHAMENTO DA SOJA

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate, through an integrative review, the potential use of the bacterium Bacillus velezensis in the production of bioactive substances associated with plant growth, with an emphasis on its possible influence on soybean (Glycine max) branching. The literature review showed that B. velezensis is a multifunctional microorganism, recognized for its ability to act as a plant growth promoter, nutrient solubilizer, systemic resistance inducer, and biocontrol agent against phytopathogens. Several strains were studied, notably Ag75, 20507, BVE7, and UTB96, which demonstrated positive effects on biomass, nodulation, biological nitrogen fixation, and soybean productivity, in addition to suppressing diseases such as root rot, phytophthora, and white mold. Physiologically, B. velezensis has been found to be capable of producing phytohormones such as indoleacetic acid (IAA) and cytokinins, as well as flavonoids and lipopeptides, which interact with signaling pathways involved in apical dominance and lateral bud emission. Although there are still no studies quantifying the effect of the bacterium on the number of branches in soybeans, the literature indicates strong biological plausibility that its action in hormone modulation, improvement of mineral nutrition, and reduction of biotic and abiotic stresses may favor branching. The results showed that there's a lack of experimental research on soybean branching, which is a promising area for further study. We concluded that B. velezensis is a microorganism with great potential for sustainable agriculture, as it can help not only increase productivity but also optimize soybean architecture. Keywords: microbial biofertilizers, plant branching, soybean physiology.