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Bacterial seed endophytes: genera, vertical transmission and interaction with plants
Author(s) -
Truyens Sascha,
Weyens Nele,
Cuypers Ann,
Vangronsveld Jaco
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
environmental microbiology reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.229
H-Index - 69
ISSN - 1758-2229
DOI - 10.1111/1758-2229.12181
Subject(s) - seedling , germination , biology , bacteria , microorganism , colonization , plant growth , botany , endophyte , biological pest control , plant development , ecology , genetics , biochemistry , gene
Summary Although the importance of plant‐associated microorganisms for plant growth and health was getting more recognition recently, the role of seed‐associated microorganisms, and especially seed endophytic bacteria, still is underestimated. Nevertheless, these associations could be beneficial for germination and seedling establishment as seed endophytic bacteria are already present in these very early plant growth stages. Moreover, bacteria with beneficial characteristics can be selected by the plants and could be transferred via the seed to benefit the next generation. In this paper, the current literature concerning bacterial endophytes that have been isolated from seeds of different plant species is reviewed. Their colonization routes, localization inside seeds and mode of transmission as well as their role and fate during germination and seedling development are discussed. At the end, some examples of bacterial seed endophytes with applications as a plant growth‐promoting or biocontrol agent are given.