Researchers have discovered that plants exert a degree of control over the composition of microbial communities around their roots, offering new insights into plant-microbe interactions. A collaborative study conducted by the University of Bonn and the Jülich Research Centre, published Friday in “Nature Communications”, details how plants strategically allocate resources to different microbial groups within their root systems.
Investigations focusing on maize plants revealed distinct preferences for microbial colonization at varying points along the root. Specific bacteria are particularly encouraged by plant secretions at the root tip, while other microbial groups thrive in areas further back from the tip. The research team also identified instances of indirect carbon uptake, whereby certain microorganisms obtain carbon by consuming other bacteria.
These findings highlight spatial variations in the composition of the root microbiome – communities of microorganisms living in and around plant roots – that were previously often overlooked. Traditional analysis often involves assessing entire root systems, potentially obscuring these nuanced differences.
The study’s results could potentially contribute to the development of targeted strategies for employing beneficial microorganisms in agriculture, for applications such as plant protection or growth promotion. Understanding how plants shape their root microbiomes opens possibilities for optimizing these interactions to enhance plant health and resilience.