Plant bacterial endophytes

Plant bacterial endophytes are bacteria that live inside plant tissues for at least part of their life cycle without causing disease to the host plant. They colonize internal plant compartments such as roots, stems, leaves, and sometimes seeds. Endophytic bacteria often establish mutualistic relationships with plants, contributing to plant growth, stress tolerance, and protection against pathogens. They may promote plant development through mechanisms such as nitrogen fixation, phytohormone production, enhancement of nutrient availability, and induction of plant defense responses.