Elucidating Mechanisms of Rhizosheath Formation and its Functions on Plant Growth Under Stressed Conditions

The rhizosheath—a soil layer composed of particles tightly bound to plant roots—plays a critical role in supporting plant growth and adaptation to stressful environments. This unique root-soil interface has been recognized as a vital zone of interaction between plants and their soil environment. Recent research has identified key factors driving rhizosheath formation, including soil properties, root traits, and microbiome. Furthermore, rhizosheaths enhance plants’ capacity to absorb water and nutrients, promote root development, establish microhabitats for microbial colonization, and facilitate soil carbon sequestration. Despite the established significance of rhizosheaths in plant-soil systems, their implications for agricultural productivity and ecosystem resilience remain underexplored.This research topic aims to systematically elucidate the formation mechanisms of rhizosheaths and their dual role in enhancing plant biomass production and stress resilience. To achieve these goals, we are proposing to: (1) Decipher rhizosheath formation through a multidimensional lens, integrating soil physicochemical properties, root architectural dynamics, and microbial symbiosis networks. (2) Explore biotechnological interventions—including synthetic microbial consortia and genetic engineering approaches—to optimize rhizosheath development, thereby increasing biomass yield and fortifying stress tolerance in crops. (3) Develop an ecological model to quantify rhizosheath-mediated carbon-nitrogen coupling processes, providing predictive insights into agricultural carbon sequestration potential under climate change scenarios.In this research topic, we welcome all article types published by Frontiers in Plant Science that reveal the formation and function in plant growth and stress resistance, especially those that focus on:• A comprehensive characterization of rhizosheath formation• The effect of rhizosheath on plant biomass yield and stress tolerance• The rhizosheath-mediated carbon-nitrogen process• Experiments carried out in the field or under a controlled environment are equally welcome. Topic editors: Jian Kang, Tie-Yuan Liu, Mo-Xian Chen, Dr. Debatosh Das Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/71561/elucidating-mechanisms-of-rhizosheath-formation-and-its-functions-on-plant-growth-under-stressed-conditions