Actinobacteria

This scientific paper is a compilation of the state of knowledge on actinobacteria from different ecological niches. It is intended for readers interested in applied microbiology in the field of organic agriculture, particularly biocontrol of plant pathogens and promotion of crop growth by beneficial microorganisms. It is also available to graduate students and those preparing dissertations and theses as well as researchers interested in actinobacteria as biocontrol agents of plant diseases and as biofertilizers or those working on microorganism-plant interactions. After general information on actinobacteria concerning their taxonomy and ecology, we present the main actinobacteria-plant relationships with emphasis on rhizospheric actinobacteria and endophytic actinobacteria, their mode of penetration and location in plant tissues. The aim is to increase knowledge of actinobacteria and the potential for their application in agriculture.