Evaluation of Salt-Tolerant Rhizobacteria for Sustainable Plant Growth and Soil Health Improvement

Abstract

Soil saline is one of the major abiotic stresses that severely reduced agricultural productivity as it imposes growth, nutrient and soil fertility constraints. This also reduces microbial diversity and, therefore, the nutrient cycle that is required for maintaining soil health. Recently, eco-friendly and sustainable salt-tolerant rhizobacteria have been developed to treat salinity stress. They promote plant growth by nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, production of phytohormones, activity of ACC deaminase, exopoly saccharides synthesis and enhanced antioxidant defense. In addition to crop growth, soil conditioners promote the availability of nutrients through increased solubility and improved activity of soil micro-biota, all contributing to a more effective increase in soil quality. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can mitigate or ameliorate salt-stress and give an eco-friendly sustainable approach against the use of synthetic fertilizers. We further summarize recent research efforts, possible applications so far, challenges and future prospects for utilization of these beneficial microorganisms in sustainable agriculture.