Coffee-Associated Endophytes: Plant Growth Promotion and Crop Protection

Simple Summary Several hundreds of endophytic microbes are found to be associated with coffee plants. Endophytes are mostly recognized as symbionts and offer many benefits to plants. Several studies in different laboratories and natural environments show that endophytes are responsible for enhancing coffee plant growth and minimizing various pest damages. This shows that coffee endophytes can be sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides. In the coffee beverage industry, using coffee endophytes is more advantageous as they improve the aroma and flavor of the beverage. Limited studies have been carried out in this regard; nevertheless, in this article, we highlighted the importance of coffee endophytes based on the available study findings. Endophytic microbes are a ubiquitous group of plant-associated communities that colonize the intercellular or intracellular host tissues while providing numerous beneficial effects to the plants. All the plant species are thought to be associated with endophytes, majorly constituted with bacteria and fungi. During the last two decades, there has been a considerable movement toward the study of endophytes associated with coffee plants. In this review, the main consideration is given to address the coffee-associated endophytic bacteria and fungi, particularly their action on plant growth promotion and the biocontrol of pests. In addition, we sought to identify and analyze the gaps in the available research. Additionally, the potential of endophytes to improve the quality of coffee seeds is briefly discussed. Even though there are limited studies on the subject, the potentiality of coffee endophytes in plant growth promotion through enhancing nitrogen fixation, availability of minerals, nutrient absorption, secretion of phytohormones, and other bioactive metabolites has been well recognized. Further, the antagonistic effect against various coffee pathogenic bacteria, fungi, nematodes, and also insect pests leads to the protection of the crop. Furthermore, it is recognized that endophytes enhance the sensory characteristics of coffee as a new field of study.