Plant-microbe interactions

The soil microbiome plays a central role for plant health and plant growth. A key objective of sustainable agriculture is to reduce inputs and instead harness the potential of soil microbial communities. A wide range of management practices can be used to influence the soil microbiome. Reduced soil disturbance, such as low or no-tillage, promotes symbiotic organisms like arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), while mulching protects the soil surface and helps reduce erosion. Increasing plant diversity, through intercropping or agroforestry, further enhances microbial diversity and activity. Plant genetics also shape microbial associations, with certain genotypes being more effectively colonized by beneficial microorganism. In addition, direct inoculation of soils or seeds with microbial consortia offers a complementary strategy to promote plant-microbe interactions. 

Our research group investigates these different levers for managing the soil microbiome. We study how vitiforestry system influence soil microbial diversity and function, with a particular focus on AMF. We are also developing a novel biocontrol agent against fungal diseases consisting of a consortium of bacteria and fungi, leveraging the ability of fungal hyphae to create networks that facilitate bacterial movement through heterogenous soils. In parallel, we are developing tools to quantify AMF abundance in plant roots. Understanding both the abundance and the composition of microbial community is essential, as these factors strongly determine their contribution to plant nutrition and plant health.

Plant microbiome

Soil microbiome

Arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi