Endophytic Strains of Bacillus subtilis Promote Drought Resistance of Plants.

Effects of drought on plants of Triticum aestivum L., Brоmopsis inеrmis L., Pisum sativum L., and Zea mays L. inoculated with endophytic strains of Bacillus subtilis bacteria were studied. Presowing treatment of seeds with these bacteria was found to boost plant resistance to water deficit, stimulate their growth, and suppress oxidative stress. Based on the ability of the tested strains to cause antistress effect and activate the antioxidant system, it is concluded that plant treatments with them may favor growing of agricultural crops under drought conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]