Plant Probiotics

Plant Probiotics beneficial microorganisms that live in plants. These microorganisms live in different parts of the plant and even inside the cell membrane and tissues and help the plant to grow, develop and cope with various biotic and abiotic stresses. Bacteria, fungi, archaea, etc., are notable among these microorganisms. Plant probiotics enhance plant growth, health, and overall productivity. Plant probiotics stimulate plant growth through several mechanisms. These probiotics produce hormones responsible for plant growth, such as auxin and cytokinin, which promote root formation and increase nutrient uptake.

Plant probiotics also help to solubilize nutrients in the soil. In addition, plant probiotics produce antimicrobial compounds and protect the plant from harmful pathogens by competing for resources. Furthermore, plant probiotics increase tolerance to abiotic stress factors. They can improve drought resistance by increasing water absorption and reducing water loss through respiration. They increase plant tolerance to high salinity levels by maintaining osmotic balance.

Additionally, plant probiotics can improve soil fertility and health. They contribute to the decomposition of organic matter and release essential nutrient elements into the soil. They help to form soil aggregates, improve soil structure and prevent erosion. The use of plant probiotics reduces dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. By promoting plant growth and increasing stress tolerance, they increase crop yield and host plants' health. The application of plant probiotics in modern agricultural systems has gained significant attention in increasing plant productivity.

The discovery of the plant probiotic microorganisms from plant cells and their commercial use as microbial fertilizers, biopesticides, and plant enhancers is a new trend in modern sustainable crop production. But only a tiny fraction (less than 5%) of the diverse plant probiotics can be grown in the lab. That is why scientists currently use various genomics technologies, such as metagenomics, to search for all the unknown plant probiotics. Some microorganisms can fix nitrogen from the atmosphere and dissolve insoluble nutrient elements in the soil. Probiotics can promote plant growth and development by secreting various chemicals and producing plant hormones. Many valuable medicinal and human health beneficial compounds, including novel drug molecules, are also discovered from plant probiotics. [Md. Tofazzal Islam]