Sulphur oxidizers play a crucial role in converting elemental sulphur into plant-available sulfate. Sulphur is an essential element for pulse production and is involved in the formation of proteins, vitamins, and enzymes. It is a key component of amino acids such as cystine, cysteine, and methionine.
Sulphur oxidizers facilitate the conversion of various sulfur forms, including elemental sulphur and reduced sulfur compounds, into sulphate through the process of oxidation in the soil. The chemolithotrophic bacteria of the Thiobacillus genus are particularly important in this process. By utilizing sulphur oxidizers, the natural oxidation of sulfur is enhanced, leading to an accelerated production of sulfate.
The availability of sulphate in the soil is vital for plants to acquire the necessary sulphur for their growth and development. Therefore, the use of sulfur oxidizers is beneficial as it helps in increasing sulphate production, ensuring an adequate supply of sulphur for plants. This, in turn, supports the formation of important molecules like proteins, vitamins, and enzymes, ultimately contributing to improved crop productivity and quality.