Extracellular Acid Phosphatase and Phytase Activities of Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris L.) Genotypes

Seven selected buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris L.) genotypes grown in nutrient solution under P deficient (5 μg P L⁻¹) and P sufficient (250 mg P L⁻¹) sterile conditions were compared for the activity of root-associated and root-released acid phosphatase and phytase to select the best genotypes to exploit native unavailable P for better nutrition and higher production. The activity of root-associated acid phosphatase and phytase of all genotypes was significantly more than that of root-released acid phosphatase and phytase and the genotypes performed differently with regard to the activity of the enzymes and P mobilization. The Cenchrus ciliaris genotype, CAZRI-1106 had the highest activity of root-associated and root-released acid phosphatase and phytase, which differed significantly from other genotypes tested as far as root released enzymes are concerned and exploited maximum amount of native P. Phosphorus deficiency increased significantly (p < 0.01) with both acid phosphatase and phytase release. There was a significant correlation (p < 0.01) between the activities of root-associated and root-released acid phosphatase and phytase. The results suggested that genotypes CAZRI-1106 might be used for exploitation of native unavailable phosphorus for plant nutrition.