Endophytic solutions: Alleviating salinity stress in sugarcane

Abstract

A pot experiment tested the impact of endophytic bacteria on biochemical traits in sugarcane varieties under salt stress. Salt levels were varied, and both varieties showed increased lipid peroxidation and membrane stability with higher levels in the salt-sensitive variety. Endophytes reduced these effects, especially in stressed plants. Sodic soil promoted better performance under salt stress. Antioxidative enzyme levels increased with salt stress, particularly in the salt-sensitive variety. Endophyte treatments boosted these enzymes, with the highest increase at 8 dSm-1 salt level. Consortia of endophytic bacteria showed the most significant increase in antioxidative enzymes, suggesting their potential in alleviating salt stress in sugarcane. This research understanding the mechanisms underlying the interaction between endophytes and sugarcane, especially regarding the signaling pathways involved in stress response, could pave the way for developing biostimulant strategies to enhance crop resilience against salinity and other abiotic stresses. This approach may contribute to sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in regions facing soil salinization and reduced crop yields.