Vol. 5, Issue 2, Part A (2023)

The present study investigates the role of microbial consortia in enhancing phytochemical profiles and pharmacognostic properties of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) cultivated under controlled field conditions in Ghana. A microbial consortium composed of Azospirillum brasilense, Bacillus subtilis, and Trichoderma harzianum was applied to the rhizosphere to evaluate its influence on growth, biochemical composition, and bioactive metabolite content. Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at a 5% significance level (SPSS v25.0). Results demonstrated a significant increase in chlorophyll content (32.4%), total phenolic compounds (26.9%), and flavonoids (21.7%) compared to the control. Enhanced antioxidant activity and improved alkaloid yield were recorded, signifying the role of microbial synergism in secondary metabolite biosynthesis. The findings highlight the potential of microbial consortia as sustainable bio-enhancers for improving both yield and pharmacological potential in S. melongena.