Question

What are bio-fertilizers?

Hint:

Bio-fertilizers do not "add" chemicals; they "fix" or "solubilize" naturally occurring elements for plant use.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Unlike chemical fertilizers, bio-fertilizers use living microorganisms to provide nutrients to plants.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Bio-fertilizers are substances containing living microorganisms which, when applied to seeds, plant surfaces, or soil, colonize the rhizosphere or the interior of the plant and promote growth by increasing the supply or availability of primary nutrients to the host plant. They primarily consist of bacteria, fungi, and cyanobacteria.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Bio-fertilizers are living organisms (like bacteria or fungi) that enhance the fertility of the soil by providing nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.