Holland Receives Grant towards "Pink Bacteria" Research

SALISBURY, MD---Dr. Mark Holland, associate professor of biology in the Salisbury State University School of Science and Technology, recently received a $5,680 grant from the Maryland Soybean Board to continue funding for his project, “PPFM Bacteria as a Component of Soybean Growth and Yield.” Holland has previously demonstrated clear correlations between soybean germination and the presence of PPFM (pink-pigmented facultatively methlotropic) bacteria. The current project will investigate the possible benefits of applying the bacteria directly to soybean plants.

PPFM bacteria influence seed germination, root development, plant growth and yield. Continued research could lead to a betterunderstanding of these bacteria and, eventually, to the commercial use of the bacteria to improve seed germination and storability.