Bio-boosting agriculture: Harnessing the potential of fungi-bacteria-plant synergies for crop improvement
Basanti Brar, Kiran Bala, Baljeet Singh Saharan, Pardeep Kumar Sadh, Joginder Singh Duhan
Abstract
Sustainable agriculture is imperative for meeting global food demands while safeguarding the environment and natural resources. One promising strategy involves leveraging beneficial microorganisms such as Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and plant-associated bacteria to enhance agricultural sustainability. This manuscript delves into the synergistic potential of AMF-bacteria-plant interactions in sustainable agriculture. AMF form mutualistic associations with plant roots, facilitating nutrient uptake, especially phosphorus and micronutrients. Concurrently, plant-associated bacteria promote plant growth, stress resilience, and disease tolerance. Their combined effects are believed to surpass individual impacts. The review provides a thorough examination of recent research on these synergies, elucidating mechanisms like enhanced nutrient acquisition, improved soil structure, and production of growth-promoting substances. Additionally, it explores AMF and microbe roles in combating biotic and abiotic stresses, potentially reducing chemical inputs and enhancing crop resilience. Furthermore, the study assesses the integration of nanomaterials into these interactions, promoting soil health, fertility, and carbon sequestration, thereby mitigating climate change. However, the specificity of these interactions, their environmental dependencies, and their adaptability across diverse agricultural systems necessitate further investigation. AMF-bacteria-plant associations offer a promising avenue for sustainable agriculture. Continued research and implementation are crucial to fully capitalize on their benefits, fostering a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future.