Plant mucilage components and their functions in the rhizosphere

This study aimed at analyzing the proportion of root and seed mucilage components and their functions in the rhizosphere. In total, polysaccharides (78.4%), proteins (7.3%), minerals (5.6%), and lipids (3.1%) constitute 94.3% of the mucilage composition. Mucilage polysaccharides are an energy source for microorganisms, absorb water, exchange cations, and adhere to solid surfaces in the rhizosphere. Mucilage proteins disassemble the mucilage polysaccharide for microbial utilization, respond to abiotic and biotic stresses, and mobilize nutrients in the rhizosphere. Mucilage minerals include monovalent and divalent cations capable of being exchanged for other cations in the rhizosphere. Mucilage lipids improve plant water uptake and desorb adsorbed phosphorus on soil particles in the rhizosphere. These important functions can support plant health and agricultural and environmental sustainability. Plant breeders can benefit from the advantages of a specific mucilage component and enhance its proportion in the mucilage of given plant species.