Phosphorus solubilization by some marine fungi

Abstract

Ten marine fungi were qualitatively screened for phosphorus solubilizing ability. The organisms were then tested quantitatively in liquid media containing tricalcium phosphate as a phosphorus source. The optimum pH for phosphorus solubilizing activity of fungi was from 6 to 6.5. An incubation period of 6 days was required for an appreciable quantity of phosphorus to be leached into the medium. A maximum amount of 18% phosphorus was obtained in the culture filtrate and about 54% phosphorus was found in the total cell mass with Penicillium funiculosum