Root exudates and microorganisms

Plant root exudates are atoms and compounds that are released from living root cells. Root exudate chemistry and concentrations depend on the plant species and environmental conditions. These exudates increase microbial growth and activity in the rhizosphere, compared to the bulk soil. Some root exudates are signal molecules that attract beneficial and mutualistic microorganisms to grow in and around the roots. Other root exudates provide chemical inhibition and biological control of disease-causing organisms. Methodological advances that improve our fundamental understanding of root exudation will be important to improve plant health and agricultural sustainability in the future.