🡨Barley plants fine-tune root microbial communities through sugary secretions

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Barley plants fine-tune their root microbial communities through sugary secretions

Different types of barley recruit distinct communities of soil microbes to grow around their roots by releasing a custom mix of sugars and other compounds, according to a new study led by Jacob Malone of the John Innes Center, UK, published in the open-access journal PLOS Biology.

A recent study published on Phys.org discusses how scientists have discovered a method to fine-tune the root microbiome of barley, enhancing its growth and resilience. By understanding and manipulating the complex interactions between plant roots and soil microbes, researchers aim to improve crop yields and sustainability. This breakthrough could lead to more robust agricultural practices that are better suited to withstand environmental stresses such as climate change.