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Abstract

Associating with microbes in the rhizosphere can have both costs and benefits for host plants. Because associations generally involve multiple microbial genotypes varying in mutualistic benefit, a potential tragedy of the commons can arise. How do plants maintain cooperation with the most beneficial rhizosphere microbes over the course of evolution? Specific host mechanisms may be employed that reduce the fitness benefits to microbes from defection. A major goal of our group is to study resource control in the rhizosphere by quantitatively tracking the trade of carbon and nutrients between the hosts and microbes. Ultimately, we are interested in understanding how cooperation is maintained among plant hosts and their symbiotic microbial communities.

Pages personnelles

• http://www.tobykiers.com/
• http://www.falw.vu.nl/en/research/ecological-sciences/animal-ecology/staff/toby-kiers.aspx

Contacts

• Toby Kiers
• Catherine Masson (LIPM)