From the laboratory to the marketplace: Scientific challenges in commercializing a Phosphate Solubilizing Microorganism

M.E. Leggett, G.L. Hnatowich and G. Holloway

Philom Bios Inc. #318 – 111 Research Drive Saskatoon, SK S7N 3R2 CANADA

Email: mleggett@philombios.ca

__________________

P. bilaiae was isolated from Alberta soils in 1982 by R. Kucey of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). He demonstrated that the fungus increased growth and P uptake in wheat and beans. Philom Bios licensed this technology in 1986. Though the concept was proven – much additional research was required. There was no production method or formulation. Field trials had been limited to one location, and the fungal preparation was applied by hand. Philom Bios, along with numerous research cooperators, conducted extensive field trials across the Canadian Prairies. Registration requirements dictated that trials were designed to determine application rates and efficacy of increased P uptake. Philom Bios researchers developed commercial production methods. A formulation that could be packaged and stored for long enough to allow the product to be distributed, stored, and applied by farmers was developed. Quality control systems were designed. P. bilaiae was registered for use on wheat in 1990. Ongoing cooperative research with AAFC and Western Canadian Universities has led to new ways to study and use the microorganism. Improvements in the production process have decreased the cost of production and increased the quality of the product. Formulation improvements increased the shelf life and ease of application use. Further field studies have expanded the number of registered crops to include canola, alfalfa, chickpea and dry bean. As new farming practices developed, the product was tested to ensure efficacy when used with the new technologies. Research challenges remain and provide exciting opportunities to advance our knowledge of this fungus and to develop system improvements to deliver more fertility value to the grower.