Plant-Microbial Interactions

Plant-Microbial Interactions involve the interplay between a plant and the myriad of microbes, such as bacteria and fungi, that live in its vicinity. Botanists have catalogued over a hundred thousand species of bacteria living in the soil and around plants, and thousands of fungus species. This three-way link between soil, plant and microbial life is essential for a plant’s health and growth. The microbes play an essential role in helping the plant to acquire essential nutrients, protect it against disease and regulate its water balance. In return, the plant provides the microbes with energy sources they can use to grow and even exchange genetic material with. Plant-Microbial Interactions are being increasingly studied to better understand how plants interact with their environment, leading to improved crop productivity and increased resistance to disease and climate change.