Exploiting Seed and Soil Microbiomes: Innovations for Enhancing Crop Resilience and Productivity

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Seed and Plant Certification and Registration Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran

2 Seed and Plant Certification and Registration Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran

10.22124/jms.2025.9416

Abstract

The seed microbiome comprises a diverse assemblage of beneficial microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, which inhabit either the internal tissues (endophytes) or the external surfaces (epiphytes) of plant seeds. These microorganisms play pivotal roles in seed germination, early seedling development, nutrient acquisition, and the enhancement of plant resistance to both biotic and abiotic stresses. In recent years, seed biopriming has emerged as one of the most efficient biological strategies for the targeted modulation and engineering of the seed microbiome. By promoting the early establishment of beneficial microorganisms, this approach enhances rhizosphere microbiome stability and improves plant resilience. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the composition, origin, and complex interactions of the seed microbiome with soil and the host plant, and critically examines recent advances in technologies such as seed biopriming, seed coating, multi-omics approaches, and synthetic microbial communities. Evidence from recent studies indicates that the rational design of the seed microbiome can increase crop productivity by 10–20% while reducing dependence on chemical inputs. The integration of seed microbiome engineering with climate-smart agriculture and genome-editing technologies offers a promising framework for the development of resilient bio-based seeds and for ensuring food security under changing climatic conditions.

Keywords

References

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Iranian Journal of Seed Sciences and Research
Volume 12, Issue 3
October 2025
Pages 51-65

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