Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria as ecological architects of soil ecosystems; Future perspectives

Soil degradation from intensive agriculture, erosion, and climate change increasingly threatens critical functions such as nutrient cycling, water retention, aggregate stability, and biodiversity. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are emerging as key players in redesigning resilient soil ecosystems. Beyond conventional biofertilizer roles, PGPR enable green synthesis of nanoparticles for soil remediation and targeted nutrient delivery, support engineered microbial consortia for optimized rhizosphere functions, and enhance climate resilience through improved drought tolerance, salinity resistance, and carbon sequestration. These advances position PGPR as ecological architects that can restore soil health and support sustainable agriculture under environmental stress.