18 March 2024 | Iryna Kulkova*, Barbara Wróbel and Jakub Dobrzyński
The article reviews the potential of *Serratia* spp. as plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) under conditions of salinity, drought, and nutrient imbalance. *Serratia* spp. are gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic bacteria that can enhance plant growth and stress tolerance through various mechanisms, including phytohormone production, ACC deaminase activity, nitrogen fixation, phosphorus and zinc solubilization, antioxidant properties, and gene expression modulation. The review highlights the need for further research to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of action and the effects on indigenous soil and plant microbiota. Some *Serratia* spp. strains may also be phytopathogens, so caution is advised before field trials. The article concludes that understanding these mechanisms will increase the potential of *Serratia* spp. as eco-friendly biofertilizers in sustainable agriculture.The article reviews the potential of *Serratia* spp. as plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) under conditions of salinity, drought, and nutrient imbalance. *Serratia* spp. are gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic bacteria that can enhance plant growth and stress tolerance through various mechanisms, including phytohormone production, ACC deaminase activity, nitrogen fixation, phosphorus and zinc solubilization, antioxidant properties, and gene expression modulation. The review highlights the need for further research to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of action and the effects on indigenous soil and plant microbiota. Some *Serratia* spp. strains may also be phytopathogens, so caution is advised before field trials. The article concludes that understanding these mechanisms will increase the potential of *Serratia* spp. as eco-friendly biofertilizers in sustainable agriculture.