Beyond the Surface: Bacterial Biofilms as Key Player in Plant Disease Management
Madhu J.*
Dept. of Plant Pathology ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India
Ashwini J.H.
Dept. of Plant Pathology ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India
Godavari
Dept. of Agricultural Entomology ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India
Sindhu D.
Division of Genetics ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India
Pradeep C.
NIPB, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India
DOI: NIL
Keywords: Bacterial, Biofilm, Exopolysaccharide matrix, Quorum sensing
Abstract
Soil environments are constantly changing and the region around plant roots, known as the rhizosphere, hosts an incredible variety of microorganisms. In this area, microorganisms residing near plant roots compete for resources like water, nutrients and space, which aids in nutrient absorption and offers protection against various external threats. Interactions within the rhizosphere involve not only soil and microfauna but also microbial interactions among themselves and with plants. Bacterial biofilms, which are collections of bacterial cells adhering to surfaces, are crucial for cooperation among microorganisms. Microbial cells encased EPS. Bacterial cells are shielded by a protective matrix, guarding them against a range of environmental threats such as extreme pH levels, UV radiation, antimicrobial substances, dryness, sudden changes in osmotic pressure and predatory organisms. Biofilms occur naturally in animals, plants and various environmental settings and they can have either advantageous or detrimental or pathogenic effects.
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Reference
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