Endophytic microorganisms as bio-inoculants for sustainable agriculture

Abstract

A sustainable crop production is one of the major challenges for agriculture in the twenty-first century. A considerable burden has been imposed on the agriculture by the overuse of chemical fertilizers to meet the demands of rising population. Environmentally safe and cost-effective solutions are required, focusing on reduced use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, for improving productivity and sustainability in agriculture. The microorganisms living inside the plant tissues without causing apparent harm termed as "endophytes" are potential source of various novel compounds enhancing the plant growth and eliminating plant pathogens, which can be utilized for sustainable agriculture. Endophytic microorganisms are not only the promising source of growth metabolites but also enable the plant to resist stress-like conditions. These organisms have the potential to produce plant growth-promoting metabolites including phytohormones; enzymes like ACC deaminase, reducing the levels of ethylene; organic acids aiding in phosphate solubilization; and siderophores, cellulases, and chitinases inhibiting the growth of phytopathogens. The application of endophytic microorganisms with multifarious activities and biocontrol mechanisms could be beneficial in reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides for sustainable agriculture in the fragile ecosystems.