Endophytic and epiphytic modes of microbial interactions and benefits

Abstract

Plants and microbes are the important components of ecosystem, and their interactions help in regulating the biogeochemical cycle in the environment. Plant-associated microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and some algae. They may be endophytic and/or epiphytic depending upon their location on the host plants. These microbes use host plants for their growth, colonization, and proliferation; however, they offer a variety of benefits to the hosts. Colonization of microorganisms on host plants takes place through air, water, and insects, or they may also be present in germinating plant parts. Endophytic microbial interactions influence the internal part, while epiphytic microbial interactions influence the exterior surface of the plants. These microbes are not harmful to the plants; however, they secrete some beneficial substances which may help in plant growth promotion, resistance to pathogenic microbes, removal of harmful contaminants, and production of secondary metabolites. In such a way, microbes contribute in agricultural crop improvement, food safety, and industries. This chapter briefly deals with the ecology, interactions, and benefits of plant-microbe interaction, especially in the area of sustainable agriculture and crop improvement.