Phytobiome Initiative

A “phytobiome” is a system of organisms that consists of plants, animals (insects and nematodes) and a wide diversity of microbes (viruses, bacteria, fungi, oomycetes, amoebas and algae), all of which are influenced by environmental factors such as soil and climate.

Research is needed to understand the role of phytobiomes in plant health, productivity and response to pathogens, pests and environmental stresses. A series of seminars and informal events will take place to promote the formation of new interdisciplinary teams to study these systems.