Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria were found in the roots of corn plants. Researchers isolated 38 strains that break down inorganic phosphate and 35 strains that break down organic phosphate. Bacteria in the roots had more phosphate-solubilizing bacteria than in the surrounding soil. The bacteria had different abilities to break down different types of phosphate. Some strains were better at breaking down inorganic phosphate, while others were better at breaking down organic phosphate. Three strains showed the most potential for making fertilizer because they were good at breaking down phosphate and grew quickly.