1Department of Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agriculture University, Junagadh, Gujarat, India
2Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agriculture University, Junagadh, Gujarat, India
*Corresponding author: Disheeta L Akbari, Department of Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agriculture University, Junagadh, Gujarat, India, Tel: +91 285 267 2080; E-mail: disheetaakbari@gmail.com
Online published on 23 August, 2016.
The four drought tolerant endophytic bacteria isolated from the grasses of Kutch were examined for their ability to increase drought tolerance in wheat growing under water stress condition. The two combination cultures were inoculated on wheat seeds and effect of these bacteria seem to have a developed mechanisms to cope with drought stress fewer than 55% water holding capacity. Their inoculation increased wheat growth, shoot and root biomass, root and shoot length as compared with the control. The potent bacteria from harsh environment are a promising, novel way to improve plant water use efficiency and drought tolerance.
Drought tolerant endophytic bacteria, Inoculation, Water stress, Wheat
