“…Interestingly, rhizobia share characteristics with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria that colonize the root surface. In the presence of rhizobia, growth of maize, lettuce, radish, rice and wheat was increased (Antoun et al 1998, Chabot et al 1996, Höflich et al 1995, Webster et al 1997). In addition to this plant growth promoting effect, rhizobia have also been associated with disease suppressive effects in legumes (Avis et al 2008, Bardin et al 2003, Chakraborty and Chakraborty 1989, Chakraborty and Purkayastha 1984, Elbadry et al 2006, Huang et al 2007, Siddiqui et al 2007, Tu 1978).…”