Microbiomes and Plant Health : Panoply and their applications

Abstract

Endophytes are symptomless microbes found in different plant tissues. Endophytes are beneficial for the growth of the host plant and essential part of biogeochemical cycling in the environment. The host range of endophytes is comprehensive, that is, cereals, pulses, oilseeds, medicinal plants, and trees. The habitat of endophytes is host-dependent and varies from tissue to tissue. They produce growth hormones, antibiotics, secondary metabolites, siderophores, and volatile compounds, which help in plant health management (PHM). The role of plant–endophyte interactions thoroughly investigated for PHM, especially in some cereal and vegetable (CV) crops. Recently, microbial formulations, including endophytes, are one of the most innovative and attractive approaches for organic farming and alternative biocontrol agents. Before commercial exploitation of beneficial properties of CV endophytes in agriculture, further research is needed about their mode of action, host interaction, and suitable delivery methods before application into the open fields. In this chapter, the biology of CV endophytes, mechanisms of plant–endophyte interactions, mode of action for plant growth promotion activity, biotic and abiotic stress management are discussed. © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.