Featured Project

Genome-based circumscription and phenotyping of regulated microbes, especially the select agent Ralstonia solanacearum

Rapid and precise identification of putative bacterial pathogens is critically important in protecting U.S. agriculture.​ This project leverages genome sequencing and genome-based classification to precisely identify select agents and other high risk quarantine pathogens and conclusively distinguish them from non-pathogens and closely related pathogens already present in the United States. While the experimental work is focused on Ralstonia solanacearum (Rs), the employed genome sequence-based approach is expandable to other bacterial pathogens.

Upcoming Events

Organized by the Alliance

International Phytobiomes Conference 2021

14-17 September 2021 • Denver, CO, USA

The International Phytobiomes Conference 2021 will bring together a broad community of international researchers and scientists from the public and private sector to collectively advance the newly-emerging field of phytobiomes research.

Featured Sponsor

Aphea.Bio

Aphea.Bio was founded in 2017 as a spin-off of the VIB and its partner universities UGent and KU Leuven and has raised about 10 million US$ in funding. The company can count on a solid scientific team of 22 people and strong leadership team with many years of experience in science and business.

Latest News

  • Animal-associated microbiomes play a crucial role in host physiology, significantly influencing livestock phenotypes. Understanding these associations is crucial for developing strategies to enhance livestock productivity, improve animal health and welfare, and mitigate the environmental impact of farming. Beyond nutritional interventions like pre- and probiotics, leveraging host genetics offers a promising approach to modulate microbiomes and consequently, host-associated traits. March 13, 2025 News, Webinar
  • This year has been remarkable for the Phytobiomes Alliance, highlighted by the International Phytobiomes Conference 2024 and significant advancements in phytobiomes science. Through interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative research, we continue to drive progress in plant-based agriculture. March 05, 2025 News
  • Agricultural sustainability faces growing challenges from climate change and pressure on natural resources. Microbial biostimulants, including PGPR (Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria), arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and chitosan—a bioproduct from crustacean exoskeletons—offer environmentally-friendly solutions to enhance agricultural productivity. These agents synergize with plants and soils, boosting microbial biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and plant growth. Case studies in Benin demonstrate their effectiveness, showing significant maize yield increases, reduced reliance on mineral fertilizers, and improved soil health. Biostimulants represent a strategic approach to food security and sustainable development in Africa, empowering farming communities while protecting the environment. February 05, 2025 News, Webinar
  • Root exudates are significant carbon pumps, transferring CO2 from the atmosphere into the soil. These exudates vary in quantity and chemistry, profoundly affecting microbial interactions and soil organic matter dynamics, with significant implications for soil biogeochemistry and health. December 18, 2024 News, Webinar

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