What is it about?
Plant-associated bacteria are known to inhabit rhizosphere (Rhizobacteria), phyllosphere (epiphytes) and endosphere (endophytes). The action of bacterial endophytes residing in plant tissues remained unexplored due to culturing difficulties and lack of advanced identification techniques. Endophytes shield the plant from root pathogen attack by producing biofilm around roots. Rhizobia are perhaps the best example of plant-associated endobacteria as they facilitate N uptake in plants through Rhizobium-legume symbiosis. With certain physiological differences, several species of Rhizobium remain present in legume plants like alfalfa, clover and pea. In this chapter, if not otherwise stated, the ‘endophytes’ are mentioned with reference to endophyte bacteria only.
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Why is it important?
Exploring host-endophyte interactions may pave the way for low-input, sustainable agricultural practises. Gene modification of plants or associated microflora could also increase crop productivity. Adoption of gene modification techniques could confer pesticide resistance, phytoremediation, and other traits to crops. A comprehensive understanding of the endophyte's growth kinetics outside of the host is required for its mass production for agricultural use. Modern microbiological technology must demonstrate its commercial viability in order to be successful. Endophyte microbiology must overcome these obstacles in order to actively contribute to sustainable agriculture.
Perspectives
Due to culturing difficulties and a lack of advanced identification techniques, the action of bacterial endophytes residing in plant tissues remained unexplored. Recent advances in bacterial culture and imaging techniques are providing a comprehensive understanding of bacterial endophytes to explore newer vistas in agriculture.
Dr Anurag Yadav
Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Plant Growth-Promoting Endophytic Bacteria and Their Potential to Improve Agricultural Crop Yields, January 2019, Springer Science + Business Media,
DOI: 10.1007/978-981-32-9084-6_7.
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