ICTC13 (@ictc13.bsky.social)

Cyanobacteria and Crop Plants: Genetic Modification, Interaction Mechanisms, and Symbiotic Colonization The ever-increasing human population necessitates an urgent demand for ensuring food sovereignty through sustainable agriculture practices. Cyanobacteria, resilient photosynthetic microorganisms throughout the course of evolution, are found either freely or in symbiotic associations with a diverse range of lower and higher plants. Cyanobacteria-plants interactions are beneficial associations for both cyanobionts and crops. These symbiotic interactions benefit crop plants by producing valuable bioactive compounds to promote their growth and induce abiotic and biotic stress resistance. In this chapter, the first section pinpoints the genetically modified (GM) cyanobacteria and their potential in sustainable agriculture; it discusses the genetic engineering techniques employed in cyanobacteria and highlights some successful case studies showcasing the efficacy of GM cyanobacteria in agricultural settings. Then, cyanobacteria-plants interactions are explored, focusing on the intricate processes occurring in the rhizosphere. Finally, the associations of agricultural crops with different cyanobacterial strains are discussed. The lifestyle and ecological niches of cyanobacteria are also highlighted with an emphasis on their significance in establishing successful symbiotic relationships with crops. In addition, key benefits of cyanobacteria-plants symbiosis are outlined, including enhanced nutrient acquisition, increased plant growth, etc. Overall, we hope to broaden a deeper understanding of these mechanisms and interactions by harnessing the capabilities of cyanobacteria in promoting sustainable agriculture, particularly in developing countries. https://sco.lt/820W1o