Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria as an Alternative Strategy for the Amelioration of Salt-Stress Effects in Plants

Abstract

Soil salinity represents a major abiotic stress factor that affects plants growth and productivity and serious treat for global food security. A total of 20% of the worlds's irrigated lands, estimated as 62 millions hectars, is affected by high salinity. Salinity represents complex stress for plants, as it affects plant growth and development via different components-osmotic and ionic components, as well as production of ROS. This chapter begins by outline of salinity stress and effect on the soil, with one historic perspectives. The effects of high salinity on the plants, as well as current attempts, mainly biotechnological, to producing salt-tolerant plants are discussed. Special importance has been adressed towards plant-growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) in saline soil, including different mechanism for PGPB-mediated salt stress tolerance in plants. Finally, future research trends for reclamation of saline agro-ecosystem is also highlighted.