Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Plant Growth-Promoting Fungi (PGPF) for Alleviating Abiotic Stress in Plants

In the realm of sustainable agriculture, the presence of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) plays a vital role in mitigating the adverse impacts of abiotic stresses on plants. This chapter offers an analysis of the mechanisms through which PGPR exerts its beneficial effects, including improvements in root morphology and nutrient uptake. Furthermore, it explores the ability of PGPR to stimulate the production of compounds that promote plant growth and activate defense mechanisms against abiotic stress, with a particular focus on mitigating salt stress. The chapter also investigates the signaling mechanisms facilitated by PGPR and the role of phytohormones in promoting plant growth and reducing abiotic stress. Additionally, it examines the contribution of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by PGPR to promoting plant growth and enhancing tolerance to stress. Consequently, this chapter underscores the significance of understanding the interactions between PGPR and plants in order to develop effective strategies for biostimulation. It also highlights the potential of PGPR in achieving sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture. The insights provided in this chapter are especially relevant for enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security, particularly in light of climate change and the decreasing availability of arable land. The findings underscore the importance of incorporating PGPR-based biostimulants into agriculture to enhance plant growth, improve stress resilience, and promote sustainable crop production.