Effects of root exudates on the iron and phosphate acquisition of cultivated plants

Supervisor: Prof. Tomasi Nicola
Co-Supervisor: Dott.ssa Zanin Laura

In limestone soils, the high presence of carbonates and the high pH significantly lower the availability of iron (Fe) and phosphorous (P) nutrients, limiting the growth of agricultural crops in these soils and lowering the quality of production. To increase their bioavailability, resilient plants release large quantity of root exudates, such as phytosiderophores, organic acids and phenolics.

The aim of this research is to unravel the role of different exudates in contributing to the Fe and P acquisition of cultivated plants​. My PhD project consists in the collection the root exudates of common species cultivated in the north-east italy as barley (Hordeum vulgare) model plant for Fe study, and white lupin (Lupinus albus), model plant for P study. The model plants will growth in hydroponic condition in absence of Fe, P or both nutrients. The root exudates will be then characterized through HPLC analysis, and a specific exudates profile will be obtained for each nutrient deficiency condition. Later, some selected exudates will be tested individually on plants in Fe or P deficiency.

Subsequently the selected exudates component that will show greater efficiency in relieving nutrients deficiency symptoms, it will be tested for field studies on soils lacking in P, Fe or both elements. From this study, we expect that different classes of exudates, have a different effectiveness in reducing symptoms of nutritional deficiency.

Biography and Contacts

Michele was born in Udine, Italy on 28/03/1998. In 2021 he obtained the bachelor’s degree in Viticulture and Oenology at the University of Udine (110/110 cum laude). In 2023 he obtained the master’s degree in agriculture science and technology at the University of Udine (105/110).