ABSTRACT
Heavy metal contamination of soil, primarily as a result of anthropogenic activities, is a severe problem worldwide. Living organisms, including humans, are at a great health risk because metals have toxic effects on metabolic functions. Application of phytoremediation techniques offers an acceptable solution for remediation of metal-infested soils. Plants are able to accumulate or immobilize heavy metals in the soil environment by the processes of phytoextraction and phytostabilization. Rhizosphere microorganisms, such as plant growth–promoting rhizobacteria and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can enhance phytoremediation processes. Beneficial microbes recruited by the plant host can improve nutrient acquisition and increase plant biomass. Here we review the current literature pertaining to the role of microbes in enhancing nutrient availability under polluted conditions and improving phytoremediation of metalliferous soils.
