Insight on the Role of PGPR in Sustainable Agriculture andEnvironment-Review of Literature

Abstract

The intensification of agriculture to meet global food demands has exerted tremendous pressure on soil health and ecosystem stability, necessitating a shift towards sustainable practices. Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), a diverse group of beneficial soil bacteria colonizing the rhizosphere, has emerged as a pivotal tool in this transition. This review synthesizes current literature to provide a comprehensive insight into the multifaceted role of PGPR. It elucidates the direct mechanisms through which PGPR enhance plant productivity, including biological nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, siderophore production, and phytohormone modulation. Furthermore, it examines indirect biocontrol activities, such as the induction of systemic resistance (ISR) and antagonism against phytopathogens via antibiotics and lytic enzymes. Beyond plant growth, the review highlights the critical environmental roles of PGPR in soil remediation, detailing their capacity for heavy metal detoxification and hydrocarbon degradation in contaminated sites.

The integration of PGPR in agroecosystems contributes significantly to soil fertility enhancement, reduction of synthetic inputs, and mitigation of abiotic stress (e.g., drought, salinity). Despite their potential, challenges in bioformulation development, field consistency, and compatibility with agronomic practices remain. This analysis concludes that harnessing PGPR through advanced microbiome engineering and consortium applications is fundamental to developing resilient and sustainable agricultural systems, ensuring food security while preserving environmental integrity.