Since 2020, aggregated from related topics
Plant-microbe interactions refer to the relationships between plants and the various microorganisms that live in and around them, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These interactions can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful to both the plants and the microbes involved. In beneficial interactions, known as symbiotic relationships, plants and microbes work together to support each other's growth and survival. For example, some microbes help plants absorb nutrients from the soil, protect them from pathogens, or improve their overall health and resilience. On the other hand, harmful interactions can result in plant diseases, such as fungal infections or bacterial wilt, which can cause significant damage to crops and negatively impact agricultural productivity. Research in the field of plant-microbe interactions explores the complexities of these relationships, including the mechanisms by which plants recognize and respond to microbes, the ways in which microbes influence plant growth and development, and the potential applications of these interactions in agriculture, such as developing biocontrol agents or enhancing plant health through microbial inoculants. Understanding plant-microbe interactions is crucial for sustainable agriculture and food security.