Abstract:
Rhizosphere, the interface between soil and plant roots, is a chemically complex environment which supports the development and growth of diverse microbial communities. Studies in rhizosphere science have undoubtedly improved our ability to steer the knowledge into technological applications in agricultural industry, ecological engineering, and nature restoration. In this chapter we provide a holistic perception of rhizosphere functioning with a highlight on the ecological drivers that promote colonization of coherent functional groups of microorganisms influencing plant life through several direct and indirect mechanisms. We also discuss how the activities of the indigenous microbes from rhizosphere may be exploited toward developing profitable techniques or methods in sustainable agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental management. In this context, we emphasize on the need for high degree of innovation and active collaboration between basic research and technology development wings for the best use of the knowledge in order to meet the increasing global demand for food, fiber, and bioenergy.
