The role of seed-vectored endophytes in seedling development and establishment

Seed-vectored endophytes internally colonize plant seeds and remain without eliciting disease symptoms. Microbes are carried by seeds generation after generation to benefit the host during and following seed germination. Seed-vectored endophytes have been poorly investigated and research targeted at understanding their biology will have immense applications in agriculture and horticulture. Some reports are available on the roles of seed endophytes in plant growth promotion via nutrient acquisition and biocontrol of soil borne diseases, but mechanisms of interaction at the endophyte-host interface, especially during seed germination and seedling establishment, have not been explored adequately. The present paper is intended to review the role of seed vectored endophytes in seed germination, seedlings development and in developing the rhizosphere community. The mechanisms of interaction and movement of seed inhabiting endophytic bacteria are explained with the help of pictorial models.