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Characterizing Microbiome Dynamics – Flow Cytometry Based Workflows from Pure Cultures to Natural Communities
Published on: July 12, 2018
Carbon flow in plant microbial associations.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|July 24, 1981
Summary
Legumes share photosynthesis products with symbiotic microbes. The plant increases photosynthesis to support its fungal and bacterial partners.
Area of Science:
- Plant biology
- Microbiology
- Symbiotic interactions
Background:
- Legumes form symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi and nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
- These symbionts provide essential nutrients to the plant, requiring carbon in return.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the distribution of photosynthesis products in a tripartite symbiotic association.
- To understand the carbon allocation between legume, mycorrhizal fungus, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of photosynthesis product distribution.
- Analysis of carbon incorporation and respiration by symbionts.
- Assessment of nodule and fungal utilization of plant photosynthates.
Main Results:
- Mycorrhizal fungi incorporated 1% and respired 3% of photosynthesis products.
- Bacterial nodules utilized 7-12% of the photosynthesis product.
- The legume host plant increased its photosynthesis rate to meet microbial demands.
Conclusions:
- The legume host actively allocates significant resources to its symbiotic partners.
- Increased photosynthesis by the legume compensates for the carbon cost of symbiosis.
- Efficient resource exchange is crucial for the success of these symbiotic associations.
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