In the present study, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Trichoderma viridae were evaluated for their potential to degrade pesticides such as monochrotophos and methyl parathion. Soil alone, soil with pesticides, and soil with microbes and pesticides were taken as experimental modules. After 30 days of treatment different morphometric and biochemical parameters were analyzed. Percent germination, shoot and root length, content of chlorophyll-a, and b, total chlorophyll, protein and carotenoids were highly reduced in pesticide alone treated soil. However when the pesticide treated soil was mixed with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Trichoderma viridae, the above mentioned parameters were restored to near normal indicating their capacity to degrade the pesticides. The present investigation showed that Pseudomonas aeruginosa was more efficient in degrading monochrotophos and methyl parathion.
