This invention includes specific microbes and an approach to the selection of those microbes involved with microbial taxa and microbial panels for producing desirable traits in world’s most important fiber crop, cotton. Researchers at University of Arizona found links between the plasticity of root-associated microbial communities and the plant performance. The findings led to development of a method to enhance drought resistance in cotton plants and improve key yield metrics such as boll weight and lint index in water-scarce conditions, making it essential for sustaining productivity in the global textile industry. Background: Cotton is a major source of natural fiber and crop productivity is challenged by water scarcity, particularly in hot, arid environments. Currently, there are many abiotic stress elements that affect crop yields, such as climate change and the continued increase in temperature and dry conditions. These conditions affect the ability for crops to grow in abundance and forces farmers to rely on costlier and less efficient inputs. Scientific advancements to improve crop resilience are needed to maintain production in increasingly challenging environments. Applications:
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