Current scenario of root exudate-mediated plant-microbe interaction and promotion of plant growth

Abstract

Over the last few years, a boom has been witnessed in the area of soil ecology which has produced numerous data on interactions between plant and rhizospheric microbes. The plant-microbe interactions in the rhizospheric niche have proved to be crucial for the advancement of sustainable farming practices which decrease the usage of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Root exudates are substances released by plant roots that show a significant role in mediating the plant-microbe interactions in soil. These root exudates send chemical signals to microbes which in response are attracted towards the roots and influence growth of plants, soil properties, and microbial community. This chapter is focussed on recent advancements in the utilization of root exudates in plant-microbe interactions to enhance plant growth promotion. The plant-microbe interactions are categorized as beneficial or detrimental depending upon the characteristics of root exudates. This chapter also covers different types of root exudates and their function in modifying the exchanges between rhizospheric microbes and plants for the betterment of soil health and sustainable ecosystems.