Microbes, such as bacteria and fungi, play an important role in nature. They help plants absorb nutrients and protect against diseases, for example. Academics from Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) will be conducting research into the seed microbiome to discover how it helps improve seed quality and plant growth. The Dutch Research Council (NWO) is funding the project.
The research focuses on three key questions:
- How do genetic properties and seed characteristics influence microbe recruitment?
- Which microbes contribute to better seed and plant performance, especially during drought stress?
- What are the mechanisms underlying plant-microbe interactions?
The research aims to better understand the role of microorganisms in plant growth, in particular how these 'invisible helpers' enter the next generation of plants through the seed and contribute to seed and plant resilience. This knowledge can improve the sustainability of agriculture. Farmers and growers will then be able to use microorganisms to grow robust and healthy plants, making them more resistant to climate change. Research leader Leónie Bentsink is pleased with the funding from the Dutch Research Council's Open Technology Programme: "This funding will allow us to build on this line of research."
Besides this research, five other Dutch application-oriented research projects will receive money from the fund, involving a total of over €4 million.
Source: WUR.nl