Enhancing the biological nitrogen fixation of leguminous crops grown under stressed environments

Legumes have the ability to establish a symbiotic interaction with soil bacteria, collectively termed as rhizobia. These bacteria can enhance growth and development of associated crops by transferring atmospheric nitrogen into a form that is available for plant growth or by improving nutrient uptake through modulation of hormone-linked phenomena in inoculated plants. Selection of the effective Rhizobium strain is the most critical aspect used to achieve maximum benefits from this technology. This review aims to focus on recent findings, thereby highlighting the enhancement of plant growth and nitrogen uptake during the symbiosis between rhizobia and leguminous plants under severe conditions. The potential uses of such microorganisms due to their multifaceted beneficial activities are likely to play an important role in modern high intensive agricultural practices. Keywords: Rhizobium spp., legumes, growth promotion, plant protection, sustainable agriculture