Exploring and exploiting the rice phytobiome to tackle climate change challenges

Area of Science:

• Agroecology
• Plant Science
• Microbiology

Background:

• Climate change impacts agroecosystems, threatening global food supply.
• The phytobiome, including the plant microbiome, is crucial for plant health and productivity.
• High-throughput sequencing advanced phytobiome understanding, but applications, especially for rice, are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To re-conceptualize the rice phytobiome dynamics under climate change and human influence.
• To explore interdisciplinary approaches for deciphering and reprogramming phytobiome interactions.
• To integrate phytobiome knowledge with regenerative agriculture for climate-resilient rice farming.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on phytobiome research and climate change impacts.
• Analysis of interdependencies between microscopic and macroscopic organisms in the rice phytobiome.
• Discussion of novel strategies and technologies for phytobiome manipulation.

Main Results:

• The rice phytobiome is a complex system influenced by environmental changes and human interventions.
• Existing knowledge of phytobiome structure and function requires translation into practical applications for rice.
• Systematic and interdisciplinary approaches are needed to understand and manage the rice phytobiome.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the rice phytobiome is essential for sustainable agriculture and food security.
• Reprogramming phytobiome interactions using advanced technologies can enhance rice resilience to climate change.
• Integrating phytobiome insights into regenerative agriculture offers a pathway to climate-smart rice production.