Mechanisms of Rhizosphere Microorganisms in Regulating Plant Root System Architecture in Acidic Soils

This study explores how rhizosphere microorganisms regulate plant root system architecture in acidic red soils, which are common in China and have low pH, high aluminum, and poor phosphorus utilization. The research highlights the role of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobia, in enhancing root biomass, branching, lateral roots, and root hair growth through mechanisms like hormone production, volatile organic compound release, nitrogen fixation, and phosphorus solubilization. These microorganisms help improve soil structure and root system architecture, offering a strategy to boost productivity in acidic soils. The study also introduces new visualization methods for analyzing these interactions, providing technical support for future research.