Biological interactions in grassland soils and productivity

Roger Cook, Richard D. Bardgett, William R. Eason, Leif Skøt, K. Judith Webb

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference Proceeding (Non-Journal item)

Abstract

This paper describes research on interactions between grassland plant species and soil microorganisms. Both parasitic and symbiotic microorganisms modify nutrient transfers between plants and soil. Experiments are described in which nematode infection of clover increased nitrogen transfer to companion ryegrass plants. Infection of clover enhanced activity of soil bacterial and fungal communities. Legume genotypes differing only in responses to symbionts (rhizobium and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi) and pathogens are being developed for studies of gene expression during establishing and functional symbioses. Such plants can be used in experiments as defined perturbations that will provide information on the interactions and functions of symbiotic and pathogenic microorganisms. Such studies, related to field observations, may have value for defining biological attributes of sustainable grassland soil systems.
KEYW gene expression, nematodes, nutrient cycling, mycorrhizae, rhizobia,
white clover.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationGrassland Ecosystems: An Outlook into the 21st Century
EditorsJ. A. Gomide, W. R. S. Mattos, S. Carneiro da Silva
PublisherFundação de Estudos Agrarios Luiz de Queiroz
Pages167-168
Number of pages2
ISBN (Print)8571330107
Publication statusPublished - 2001
EventProceedings 19th International Grassland Congress - Sao Paulo, Brazil
Duration: 10 Feb 200121 Feb 2001

Conference

ConferenceProceedings 19th International Grassland Congress
Country/TerritoryBrazil
CitySao Paulo
Period10 Feb 200121 Feb 2001

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