Abstract
Enhancement of crop productivity in the modern agricultural era relies on the application of agrochemicals. The global requirement of chemical fertilizers attains ∼200 MT by the year 2022. However, reckless use of such fertilizers gradually deteriorates the soil quality and functions leading to jeopardy of the agro-ecosystems. There is an urgent need for efficient biological substitutes that provides essential micro- and macro-nutrients to enhance the soil health as well as plant production. In view of such situation, plant growth-promoting endophytic bacteria (PGPEB) plays a major role in sustainable agriculture and disease management. The PGPEB serves as potential alternatives against chemical fertilizers and provides stress tolerance in addition to rhizosphere inhabitants. A diverse group of PGPEB resides in a variety of agriculturally valued plant species that have been isolated and identified worldwide. Numerous studies have revealed the plant growth-promoting potential of endophytic bacteria inhabiting in plants (tomato, eggplant, capsicum, canola, rice, wheat, potato, and many others). The application of endophytic bacteria endowed with plant growth-promoting ability, and alleviation of biotic and abiotic stresses has major role in agroecosystems. The current chapter addresses comprehensive approach toward plant growth-promoting functions of selected endophytic bacteria occurring in agricultural crops. It includes mechanism of action and role of endophytes in plant protection and growth-promotion toward sustainable agriculture with future perspectives.
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