Vol. 11, Issue 10, Part B (2025)

Abstract
This study investigates the colonization and movement of endophytic bacterial consortia within sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) across different crop growth stages under varying nitrogen fertilizer regimes. Total viable counts (TVC) of six endophytic genera-Acetobacter diazotrophicus, Agrobacterium, Azoarcus, Azospirillum, Burkholderia, and Herbaspirillum-were assessed in leaves, stems, and roots at multiple crop stages. Results revealed distinct organ- and stage-specific colonization dynamics: leaves showed higher bacterial counts in early stages (30–60 days), stems during mid-growth (120–240 days), and roots at harvest (~360 days). These findings provide insights into bacterial migration patterns and suggest optimized inoculation strategies for sugarcane biofertilization.