Exploring the Role of Earthworm Gut Bacteria in Minimizing the Noxious Effects of Xenobiotic Compounds on Plant Growth
摘要
Xenobiotic compounds are released into the environment by several anthropogenic activities. In the past few decades, the use of xenobiotic compounds has increased exponentially due to rapid industrialization, globalization, and population explosion. The recalcitrant nature of these pollutants jeopardized the livelihood of all living beings. Microbe-assisted bioremediation i.e., the use of taxonomically diverse groups of bacteria and fungi is one of the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly techniques for reducing the noxious effects of such toxic pollutants. Interestingly, earthworms play a vital role in maintaining soil structure and function in terrestrial ecosystems. Yet very little information is available pertaining to the role of the gut microbes of these annelids in shaping soil chemistry. In this chapter, we will highlight the role of earthworm gut bacteria (EGB) in promoting soil health and plant growth while facilitating the degradation of xenobiotic pollutants such as pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and pharmaceuticals, which are ingested from the soil. Additionally, the involvement of xenobiotic compounds in shaping the EGB community and plant-microbe interaction in such polluted soil will be discussed.