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Plant Science Today (PST)

Review Articles

Vol. 13 No. sp5 (2026): Recent Advances in Agriculture

Mechanism of biofilm formation and development on plant roots under environmental stress condition

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.13808
Submitted
24 January 2026
Published
14-07-2026

Abstract

Biofilm formation on plant roots represents a critical adaptive strategy that enhances plant-microbe interactions and improves plant resilience under environmental stress conditions. Root-associated biofilms, primarily formed by plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), are structured microbial communities embedded in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which provide mechanical stability, facilitate nutrient exchange and protect against environmental fluctuations. This review synthesises current knowledge on the mechanisms governing biofilm formation on plant roots, with particular emphasis on microbial attachment, EPS production and quorum sensing-mediated regulation. The integration of these mechanisms enables the transition from planktonic to sessile microbial lifestyles and supports the development of functionally efficient biofilms. Environmental stressors such as drought, salinity, nutrient limitation, temperature extremes and heavy metal contamination significantly influence biofilm formation by modulating microbial physiology and plant root processes. Biofilm-mediated responses enhance water retention, regulate ion balance, improve nutrient acquisition and protect plants from toxic compounds and pathogens. Furthermore, biofilms play a key role in modulating root architecture, phytohormone balance and microbial persistence in the rhizosphere, thereby contributing to improved plant growth and productivity. Despite these advantages, challenges remain in understanding the molecular regulatory networks and ensuring consistent field-level performance of biofilm-based applications. Overall, root-associated biofilms represent a promising tool for sustainable agriculture, offering potential strategies to enhance crop resilience and reduce dependence on chemical inputs. Future research should focus on integrating mechanistic insights with field-based approaches to optimise the application of biofilm-forming microorganisms in diverse agro-ecosystems.

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