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The cycad coralloid root: is there evidence for plant-microbe coevolution?
Kimber L Zonneveld1, Edder D Bustos-Diaz2, Barona-Gómez Francisco3
1Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333BE Leiden, the Netherlands; Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Darwinweg 2, 2333CR, Leiden, the Netherlands.
Current Opinion in Microbiology
|September 11, 2025
Summary
Cycads
Area of Science:
- Botany
- Evolutionary Biology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Cycads are ancient plants with remarkable resilience.
- Their unique coralloid roots and associated microbiome are key to survival.
- Understanding this symbiosis is crucial for evolutionary insights.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current knowledge on cycad coralloid roots and their microbiome.
- To highlight technical limitations in studying these structures.
- To identify key questions for future research on cycad evolution.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on cycad coralloid roots and microbiomes.
- Analysis of historical and recent research findings.
- Identification of knowledge gaps and research challenges.
Main Results:
- Coralloid roots are unique gymnosperm structures with a specialized microbiome.
- Recent advancements have improved understanding of their taxonomy and function.
- Significant questions remain regarding their co-evolutionary history.
Conclusions:
- Cycad resilience and diversification may be linked to their root microbiome.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the co-evolutionary dynamics.
- Addressing current technical limitations will unlock new discoveries.
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