Plant Growth–Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Bioremediation of Industrial Waste

Abstract

This chapter discusses plant growth–promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and bioremediation of industrial waste. It is suggested that PGPR help plant growth not only via classically defined mechanisms (e.g., solubilization of insoluble nutrients, production of plant growth hormones, etc.) but also by mitigating the harmful effects of toxic pollutants grossly accumulated in the soil and groundwater. In the plant-microbial world, the association of PGPR with plants can be exploited for benefits not only for the associated organisms but also for the ecosystem. The eco-friendly approaches inspire a wide range of exploitation of beneficial agriculturally important bacteria and have led to improved nutrient uptake. They play a major role in improving soil fertility. They also play a very important role during remediation of bacterial-assisted phytoremediation of various pollutants present in industrial waste. Beneficial PGPR also play a key role in agricultural approaches through quorum sensing in their biofilm mode. The in vitro production of biofilm PGPR can be used to give increased crop yields and pollutants degradation through a range of plant growth mechanisms. The roots with attached microbial biofilms significantly contribute to soil fertility and bioremediation.