Rhizosphere Processes in Natural and Managed Systems: Implications of New Research for Soil Carbon Dynamics

The rhizosphere constitutes one of the most dynamic components of soil organic matter.  Over the last decade we have gained many new insights into fine root dynamics, importance of root exudation, and rhizosphere microbial dynamics.  California seasonally dry systems in particular offer interesting research opportunities for examination of fine root dynamics and rhizosphere processes due to routine soil moisture limitations.  New findings suggest a significant influence of rhizosphere processes on nutrient mobilization and soil organic matter decomposition.  Understanding these mechanisms is critical for understanding overall soil carbon and nutrient dynamics, especially in the face of projected climate change, which will alter temperature and precipitation regimes.