Question

How do biofertilizers increase the fertility of the soil?

Hint:

Biofertilizers are eco-friendly alternatives to chemical fertilizers.

Answer 1

Step 1: Meaning of biofertilizers.
Biofertilizers are living microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and cyanobacteria that enrich the nutrient quality of the soil.

Step 2: Role in soil fertility.
- They fix atmospheric nitrogen into forms usable by plants (e.g., Rhizobium, Azotobacter).
- They solubilize phosphorus and make it available to plants (e.g., Pseudomonas, Bacillus).
- They decompose organic matter and release nutrients back into the soil.
- They improve soil structure and enhance water retention.

Final Answer:
\[ \boxed{\text{Biofertilizers increase soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, solubilizing phosphorus, and recycling nutrients.}} \]