Deploying root microbiome of halophytes to improve salinity tolerance of crops

Salinization of the soils is one of the most prominent problems threatening global food security. Root microbiome engineering using biofertilizers provides a sustainable way to increase agricultural productivity. Halophytes, which are extremely salt-tolerant plants, can tolerate up to 1300 mM NaCl. Members of the halophytic root microbiome now provide a promising solution to meet the increased demand in the agricultural output. Here, we explore the members of this microbiome and explain the plant growth-promoting functions of them. We discuss the manipulation of the root microbiome with synthetic microbial communities including keystone microorganisms of the halophytic root microbiome. Importantly, we provide a simple method in R software to find these putative keystone taxa using network analysis. We believe this strategy will provide a valuable tool for future studies performing the combined investigation of the root bacteria and fungi of halophytes.