Phyllosphere microbiomes: implications and ecofunctional diversity

The phyllosphere harbors a diverse variety of microorganisms and this phyllospheric microbiome interacts with the host plant affecting its health and function. Phyllospheric microorganisms, particularly bacteria and fungi, may serve as mutualists that promote plant growth and resistance to environmental stress. For their own development and reproduction or as antagonistic parasites, the commensals use leaf habitat. The structural and functional complexities of the entire population of the phyllosphere are discussed in this chapter. The specific challenges posed to microorganisms living on the surface of the leaf, how these microbial constituents communicate with the plant in terms of stress tolerance, growth promotion, acquisition of nutrients, and resistance to diseases will also be illustrated.