Plant-Helping Bacteria

Researchers have discovered a defense mechanism that some plants employ when under attack by pathogens. The plant sends signals from the leaves to the roots, which prompt the roots to secrete malic acid. Malic acid attracts helpful bacteria in the soil that can fight off the deadly pathogens.

In the study, the researchers infected certain plants with a pathogenic bacterium. The roots of some of the plants were treated with a helpful microbe, Bacillus subtilis, which has antimicrobial properties. The untreated plants developed disease symptoms while the Bacillus subtilis treated plants remained healthy. Bacillus subtilis helps protect plants from pathogens by covering the surface of the plant roots with a biofilm.

Learn more about this discovery, see:

• When Under Attack, Plants Signal Microbial Friends For Help (Science Daily)