Co-Evolutionary Dynamics of Plant-Microbe Interaction; A Comprehensive Outlook

The co-evolution of plants and their associated diverse microorganisms has been a field of wide scientific research since the past. However, the ecological relevance of such co-evolution has recently been realized. According to the theories of evolution, ‘survival of the fittest’ has been an age-old fundamental concept, where every organism modifies itself to adapt to its changing environment while sustaining its vital processes. Understanding the interactions at the molecular level between the stationary plants and their diverse interacting partners has not only helped in deciphering the basis of evolution but also provided a better outlook towards the multidimensional interactions between the organisms of the plant microbiome. Ideally plant ‘holobiont’ comprises the host and all microbial partners of its different locations such as the rhizosphere, endosphere, and phyllosphere. The behavioral patterns of the microbes with their hosts located at different zones designate them as symbionts, commensals, and/or pathogens. Each type of relationship has its basis of establishment and evolution. The present study aims to explain the basis of the evolution of plantmicrobe interaction ranging from symbiosis to parasitism and understanding its evolutionary dynamics from an ecological perspective. Besides, the study shall also explain the role of microbiome in plant-microbe interaction and its ecological significance when subjected to climatic undulations. Overall, the study aims to put forth a comprehensive outlook on the understanding of ecology-driven evolutionary changes of plant-microbe interaction and its relevance in the present age of climate change.