Bacterial seed endophytes: genera, vertical transmission and interaction with plants

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…

• EC
  European Commission
• UH
  Universiteit Hasselt
• VR
  Vlaamse regering