Tropical Endophytic Bacillus Species Enhance Plant Growth and Nutrient Uptake in Cereals

Abstract

Several abiotic factors, such as nutrient deficiency and drought, contribute to reducing agricultural productivity in the world. Plant growth-promoting bacteria can enhance crop growth and sustainable crop production. Bacillus is the most common genus within the Firmicutes group and one of the most predominant plants endophytic bacteria. Once established within the plant, the ability of these endophytes to promote plant growth occurs due to several mechanisms that include the acquisition of essential mineral nutrients and modulation of phytohormones. Especially in tropical ecosystems, the ability of endophytic microorganisms to colonize the internal tissues of plants suggests an ecological advantage. The post-genomic era is allowing the characterization of unknown genes and the identification of genes expressed during colonization. A better understanding of how beneficial bacteria colonize different plant niches will lead to more successful and reliable use of bacterial inoculants. The commercialization of bioinoculants is a reality, however, the exploration of the more efficient use of these nutrients have the potential to increase the field of the inoculants and create confidence among the farmers for their use.