Diversity and Applications of Penicillium spp. in Plant-Growth Promotion

Maintaining soil health and increased crop productivity are the two major challenges for sustainable agriculture and food security. Effective microorganisms are considered as the key elements to overcome this problem. Soil fungi are known to play a significant role in soil fertility and plant nutrient turnover. In this chapter, we focus on the characteristics, diversity, and role of a common soil fungus, Penicillium in plant-growth promotion. Penicillium is widely known for its secondary metabolite production. In this chapter the various plant-growth promoting activities of Penicillium such as phosphate solubilization, production of siderophore, and plant-growth regulators are highlighted. The effect of Penicillium as a bioinoculant in enhancing crop productivity and its potential role in sustainable agriculture is also reviewed.