Molecular Soil Biology 2025, Vol.16, No.5, 241-254 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/msb 247 In terms of rhizosphere microorganisms, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and phosphorus-dissolving bacteria (PSB) can synergistically enhance the activation and absorption of phosphorus. Combined vaccination can even replace some chemical fertilizers (Wahid et al., 2020; Ma et al., 2020; Khan et al., 2025). The way fertilizers are applied is also very crucial. Local deep application (such as 15 cm) or the use of high-efficiency phosphorus fertilizers (such as UP, APP) can both promote root proliferation in phosphorus-rich areas, improve absorption efficiency and yield (Wang et al., 2024; Chen et al., 2022). Figure 2 Custom designed root window construction at the experimental field site of the DFG priority program 2089 “Rhizosphere Spatiotemporal Organisation-A Key to Rhizosphere Functions”. (a) Experimental plot (loam) with newly installed root window construction and observation pit at the short end of the plot. (b) Close-up of the root window construction, with observation window being covered by two removable PVC boards that are pressed against the soil plot with aluminium bars and wing bolts for stability and protection against light. (c) Root window observation area (60 ×60 cm) of a loam plot planted with Zea mays L. wild-type (B73) at growth stage BBCH 59. (d) Root window pits covered by wooden boards in between sampling campaigns (Adopted from Bilyera et al., 2021) 8.3 Lessons learned and practical implications for sustainable maize production During the breeding process, corn varieties with a large number of crown roots, shallow root distribution and low LCA should be given priority. Such varieties can better obtain nutrients in low-phosphorus soil and maintain a high yield (Karunarathne et al., 2023). Wang et al. (2024) pointed out after a series of research and analysis that applying fertilizers through local deep application and precise matching can significantly enhance fertilizer efficiency and reduce environmental burden. In the field of microbial management, Khan et al. (2025) conducted research on AMF and PSB, confirming that the combined inoculation of AMF and PSB can enhance the activation and utilization of phosphorus, which is a low-input and sustainable approach. Under different soil types, the adaptability of corn roots and the mechanism of phosphorus acquisition are not the same. Therefore, specific comprehensive management measures need to be formulated in combination with soil characteristics. 9 Knowledge Gaps and Future Directions 9.1 Need for integrative root phenotyping methods At present, there are still many limitations in root phenotypic analysis. Most methods rely on destructive sampling, which is also relatively inefficient and makes it difficult to truly reflect the structure and function of field roots.
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