What does the published scientific research say about Bacillus firmus?

Eight PubMed records index Bacillus firmus in a plant-input context, with research concentrated on its dual role as a biocontrol agent and plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR). The most-studied strain is I-1582, which is the active ingredient in the commercial seed treatment VOTiVO® and has been evaluated across corn, soybean, and tomato under both greenhouse and field conditions.

Peer-reviewed research on Bacillus firmus nematode control documents activity against multiple plant-parasitic nematode species, including the root-knot nematodes Meloidogyne incognita and Meloidogyne luci, and cyst nematodes Heterodera schachtii and Heterodera glycines. One pot and microplot study cites I-1582 reducing nematode counts by 51–53% on tomato; a Pampa agroecosystem field study reports 6–7% soybean productivity gains alongside reduced root infestation. The mechanism cited involves live root colonization and secreted metabolites — dead cells or culture supernatant alone were reported ineffective.