4. The Contribution of Microbial Endophytes Associated with Climate-Smart Brachiaria Grass Species to Sustainable Agriculture and Environment

Brachiaria grass species is widely grown in African savannahs and grasslands. It is native to Africa. It is a perennial grass species that is a source of green herbage for livestock during drought seasons. Grass possesses useful agronomic traits, including drought tolerance, resistance to insect pests and phytopathogens, the ability to grow in acidic and low-fertility soils, high nitrogen use efficiency, the capacity to sequester atmospheric carbon, the ability to form an extensive root system useful for water and nutrient acquisition, and the ability to form high biomass useful for organic matter addition, which would in turn improve soil fertility properties. Studies show that grass species adapted to adverse environments and climatic conditions usually form mutualistic microbes that enhance the fitness and productivity of host partners under stress conditions. These are one group of microorganisms called endophytes that support the growth and development of host plants through the production of phytohormones, inhibition of phytopathogens, increased uptake and availability of essential nutrients, production of siderophores, and production of plant growth-regulating compounds and enzymes (ACC deaminase), thereby reducing and alleviating plant stress conditions. The aim of this chapter is to dissect and explore endophytes associated with Brachiaria grass species that are useful for sustainable agriculture and the environment.