Nanotechnological Advances with PGPR Applications

Abstract

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are soil bacteria which have the potential for direct and indirect effects on plant growth. These organisms may have the capability to limit or replace the use of chemical fertilizers and inputs of toxic chemicals. Exploring PGPR in agriculture is, thus, one of the more promising techniques for increasing agricultural production without harming ecosystems. At the same time, nano-technological applications are greatly imparting their influence in agriculture. When compared against conventional fertilizers, nano-fertilizers play an effective role in promoting plant growth as they are rapidly absorbed by plants. Hence, nano-materials such as nano-fibers, nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides may produce revolutionary effects in the agricultural sector. PGPR together with nanomaterials may thus be a favorable strategy for managing plant growth and productivity. The application of nanomaterials like silver, titanium, zinc oxide, silica, gold and others with PGPR holds great promise. However, there can be both positive and negative impacts of engineered metal nanoparticles on rhizobacteria. Hence, engineered nanoparticle (ENPs) must be studied further to explore their use as ecofriendly agents for field application. In this chapter we describe the effects of nanofertilizers with PGPR as an innovative method for improving crop productivity.